Review: Wildefire by Karsten Knight

Title: Wildefire (Wildefire #1)
Author: Karsten Knight

Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
Pages: 400
Date Published:  July 26, 2011

Summary:
Ashline Wilde is having a rough sophomore year. She’s struggling to find her place as the only Polynesian girl in school, her boyfriend just cheated on her, and now her runaway sister, Eve, has decided to barge back into her life. When Eve’s violent behavior escalates and she does the unthinkable, Ash transfers to a remote private school nestled in California’s redwoods, hoping to put the tragedy behind her. But her fresh start at Blackwood Academy doesn’t go as planned. Just as Ash is beginning to enjoy the perks of her new school—being captain of the tennis team, a steamy romance with a hot, local park ranger—Ash discovers that a group of gods and goddesses have mysteriously enrolled at Blackwood…and she’s one of them. To make matters worse, Eve has resurfaced to haunt Ash, and she’s got some strange abilities of her own. With a war between the gods looming over campus, Ash must master the new fire smoldering within before she clashes with her sister one more time… And when warm and cold fronts collide, there’s guaranteed to be a storm.

Review: As I write this review I am torn. I really wanted to "love" this book. I picked it up a few weeks ago because m eyes were immediately drawn to the beautiful cover. I know, I know... "don't judge a book a book by it's cover" but come on! who doesn't? lol. The deep purple and blue flames illuminate the cover and drew me in. I read the synopsis which sounded to be a thrilling book. 

And for most of Wildefire, it was just that! Thrilling. Sometimes, even captivating. 

  

          Ashline Wilde and her sister Eve are both adopted. And while there are many differences, there is also a huge similarity that ties them together. Karsten's dialogue and character expressions are wonderful. Although Eve is supposed to be this villain character in the book, I enjoyed reading the vicious banter between her and her younger sister Ashline. Ashline tries to leave the past behind her and believes she does, until her sister whom she hasn't seen in months continuously shows up. Eve is one of those people that even if they tell you they won't do anything wrong... nothing ever good ever comes about hanging around them. 

         The characters are great! I especially enjoyed reading about Serena- a blind girl- who isn't much different than the characters in the book that she summons. I just wish that she would've played a bigger role in the end of the book, like I thought she would. 

        The boys--- hmm... where to start.... besides the fact that boys are boys, I think I could easily find myself going after both Colt and Rolfe. Colt is sweet. And Rolfe is a joke-ster. And in the end I was surprised, saddened, and shocked by the storyline that involves both of these characters. 

I thought the first half of Wildefire was "good"... not great or awesome. Just good. It took a while for the book to really get going. The chapters were long (which usually I enjoy- but here I felt as though they kept dragging on) and the breaks felt jumpy. It was sometimes hard for me to focus on what was actually going on at that certain moment.

I don't want to sound as though I'm bashing this book. Because in all honesty, it was good. And I think others would enjoy it. There were some inconsistencies and ideas that did not catch my interest right away. With that being said, the last half. I loved!! The author Karsten Knight started revealing parts of the plot that were exciting. The reader finally was able to understand what was going on with the characters. Maybe I was just being impatient, but I would've loved if Karsten went even further with the main characters and we understood their "god-like" powers a little earlier on. 

If you've read Wildefire by Karsten Knight,I'd love to hear your thoughts!! :-)

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Book Review: Finding Sky By Joss Stirling

Name: Finding Sky
Author: Joss Stirling
Publisher: Oxford
Release Date: Out now

Summary: When Sky catches a glimpse of Zed for the first time, lounging against his motorbike at school, she is drawn to him just like every other girl in Wickenridge. But Zed sees something special in her that the other girls don't have. Zed tells her they are both Savants - people with special powers like telepathy and the ability to see into the future. Not only that, she is a Savant too, and his soulfinder - meant to be together.


Review: So I had no idea what to expect when picking up this novel. I hadn't heard about it before until the awesome people as Oxford Publishers sent me a copy. And I am glad they did.

From the first page of this novel you could tell that this was going to be haunting, exciting and sad.
I think from the beginning of this book teenage girls from the UK and other countries that have to live someone new could defiantly relate to Sky. Its really comical when reading some of the stero types Americans have for the Brits and the same with the Brits for the Americans.

The characters are awesome. Seven hot bad boy brothers Trace, Uriel, Victor, Will, Xavier, Yves and Zed. They attend Wrickenridge with Sky. Joss has definantly written them as individuals and non of them act the same which I think was really important when trying to remember the boys. Also the use of the UK and the USA in this novel is very believable. I really enjoyed the banter between Sky and her American friend Tina. The stereotypes they had for each other was a really enjoyable read.

Zed and Skys relationship. The sexual tension has hit the roof between them two. Zeds character is very loveable as well as annoying. He's one of those characters you find sometimes annoying but can't help but love. Them two were both a really enjoyable read.The plot is nothing like I have come across what the seven brothers are hiding I never saw coming. Finding Sky is a really refreshing read with loads of awesome twists and turns! Epic.

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Book Review: Vanish By Sophie Jordon

Name: Vanish
Author: Sophie Jordon
Publisher: Oxford
UK release date: Not confirmed

Summary: To save the life of the boy she loves, Jacinda did the unthinkable: She betrayed the most closely-guarded secret of her kind. Now she must return to the protection of her pride knowing she might never see Will again—and worse, that because his mind has been shaded, Will’s memories of that fateful night and why she had to flee are gone.

Review: Finally back to the awesome world of drakis! Oh how I've missed it! Like my Firelight review I said I haven't read anything like it and vanish is In another league of its own!

As soon as I opened the book you get completely pulled back to the events that happend at the end of Firelight. A big twist involving Tamra (Jacindas sister), big surprises, Sad, Touching and beautiful moments between jacinda and Will  in the first couple of page amazing.

I love that we learn new things about drakis in this novel and from firelight I've realised there is actually so much more to learn. I love that new characters (Drakis) are introduced and now we can find out more about Jacindas draki life. You learn to love new characters and their antics and personalites but then you start to dislike some too. I found myself been drawn into this captivating world full of Drakis and Hunters and wished there was such thing in the real world. Books like that are amazing.

Also I thought no one could top Will but things have changed. Cassian has become a more prominant character and another heartthrob the love triangle between them is great. There is more Draki flying action in this novel. I really enjoy the way Sophie has written it in such a captivating and beautiful way. While reading this you truly feel like you flying though the clouds with them. Its amazing.

Once again i've loved watching Will and Jacindas relationship blossom into something intense and beautiful. I could literally read scenes between them two for hours and not get sick of them. But I also enjoyed Jacinda and her twin sister Tamras relationship you get to see more of Tamra in this novel and an amazing twist happens to her that brings the girls even more closer which is lovely to see.

Vanish is a beautiful and exciting tear jerker and I cannot wait for the third instalment. Let the Drakis fly!

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Book Trailer Friday

Name: Silence

Author: Becca Fitzpatrick

Publisher: Simon and Schuster

UK release date: October 4th

Summary: The noise between Patch and Nora is gone. They've overcome the secrets riddled in Patch's dark past...bridged two irreconcilable worlds...faced heart-wrenching tests of betrayal, loyalty and trust...and all for a love that will transcend the boundary between heaven and earth. Armed with nothing but their absolute faith in one another, Patch and Nora enter a desperate fight to stop a villain who holds the power to shatter everything they've worked for—and their love—forever

Its all been falling towards this guys.....

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Book Trailer Thursday

Name: Daughter Of Smoke And Bone
Author: Laini Taylor
UK Release Date: 29 September 2011

Summary: Meet Karou. She fills her sketchbooks with monsters that may or may not be real; she's prone to disappearing on mysterious "errands"; she speaks many languages—not all of them human; and her bright blue hair actually grows out of her head that color. Who is she? That is the question that haunts her, and she's about to find out.When one of the strangers—beautiful, haunted Akiva—fixes his fire-colored eyes on her in an alley in Marrakesh, the result is blood and starlight, secrets unveiled, and a star-crossed love whose roots drink deep of a violent past. But will Karou live to regret learning the truth about herself?


 

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Book Review: The Hidden By Jessica Verday

Name: The Hidden
Author: Jessica Verday
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Release date: September 1st 2011

Summary: In this, the long-awaited conclusion to the saga of Abbey and Caspian, readers finally learn the truth about Kristen's death, the dark destiny that links Abbey to Caspian and the hard choices that Abbey must make if she is to accept Caspian's love and their unexpected fate.


Review: Where do I start describing how AMAZING this novel is. I truly am speechless.
Can this series get any better!? Any more emotional, Heart breaking, tearful and romantic? Yes! The last book in the The Hollow series The Hidden is a perfect ending for an amazing series. Caspian and Abby are back and more in love that ever. Things are changing and looking worse for wear and through out the novel I was on the edge of my seat praying that everything would be okay. This novel was defiantly the best out of the whole three. Just because things we waited for through out the series all seemed to come into place. Jessica has written such a captivating exciting story.

This book has got to be the most romantic book I have read in a long time. Each chapter, each page and each line had me crying, sighing and smiling. I've never had a book touch me in such a way that had me thinking about it days after. Again the scenes between Caspian and Abby are amazing! Even more beautiful than ever. Some really touching moments and if you loved their scenes in the first two books then you will LOVE these scenes. I promise you.

There is a lot of surprises in this novel. And its really hard not to give spoilers because Its one of those novels you just want to tell someone about straight away and tell them everything. The amount of times it left my jaw hanging open and tears streaming down my face was unbelievable.

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Book Review: The Haunted By Jessica Verday

Name: The Haunted (The Hollow #2)
Author: Jessica Verday
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Release: Out Now

Summary: After a summer spent reclaiming her sanity and trying to forget the boy she fell in love with—the boy who must not exist, cannot exist, because she knows that he is dead—Abbey returns to Sleepy Hollow, ready to leave the ghosts of her past behind. She throws herself into her schoolwork, her perfume-making, and her friendship with Ben, her cute and funny lab partner, who just might be her ticket to getting over Caspian once and for all.

Review: Abby is back and in an even more exciting adventure than The Hollow. So far The Haunted is defiantly my favourite out of the series.

Why you ask? Well the amazing twist to the headless horsemen story. Its amazing how Jessica has made up her version of it, adding her pinch of salt to the soup mix is absolutely captivating. You learn more about Caspian, How he died, his childhood and actually how's he's truly feeling about Abby.

Once again from my Hollow review I'll talk about Caspian and Abbys relationship. The sexual tension has hit the roof between them two. And as they get frustrated you feel exactly the same. Jessica has defiantly made you bond with these characters with her writing. Its amazing. Caspian and Abby are more comfortable around each other. Its less in tense and more chilled and I think it really made you relate to the characters more.

Caspians jealousy is very comical in this novel. It brings a sort of normality to the story and makes you realise their still teenagers at the end of day. Ben is back and as loveable as ever. He's a great character to read and I really hope to see more of him in The Hidden. So many twists and jaw dropping moments. More new characters and some NOT so nice new characters. 

The plot will suck you in and make you never want to leave. Your heart will flutter and your tears will fall.
I think after reading this novel it truly makes you appreciate the touch of a love one. And November 1st will be a great day in the trilogy want to find out why? read the series! Bring on The Hidden!

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Book Review: Dark Inside By Jeyn Roberts

Name: Dark Inside
Author: Jeyn Roberts
Publisher: Mac Millan
Release Date: September 1st 2011

Summary: Four teenagers on the same road in a world gone mad. Struggling to survive, clinging on to love and meaning wherever it can be found. THE DARK INSIDE is a stunning, cinematic thriller: 28 DAYS LATER meets THE ROAD.





Review: If I'm brutally honest, this book didn't seem like it would be my kind of read.
I'm so glad that I did give 'Dark Inside' a go as it was a truly amazing read.
Each page had you desperate for more. For a debut novel, I think Jeyn Roberts is heading for a best seller.
Never ever judge a book by its cover.

'Dark Inside' was an immensely intense read that will have you breathless and paranoid by anything and everything.
The pace of this book is quick and exciting.

All the characters in this novel are exciting and intriguing. I must say Clementine has to be my fave. I loved that during her grief and destruction she used telepathy to keep her sane.The downside to this read is that you get to an exciting cliffhanger, turn the page and it's back to someone else's story. So you're then excited to return to it.

'Dark Inside' is intense. Just when you think you've got the plot and you understand each individual persons own grief, Bam there's a twist that has you questioning everything.You cannot trust anyone, not even the people you think you can trust.The twists and turns in this book are immense. All I can say is trust no one! Not even the old man on crutches. If you're not a little paranoid then this book didn't work for you.

Some people crumble under pressure. Others like Michael take charge of the situation.
This book really made me think if I was in the worst imaginable accident or crisis could I trust my friends and loved ones to be there for me whole heartedly. Michael's optimism and leadership in times of need is inspiring.Have you ever thought of how you'd cope without communication? No mobile phones, no landlines, no internet and the only TV that works is on a loop.This story shows that some people leave when the going gets tough.

What I also really enjoyed was the chapters marked 'NOTHING' as if from the inside of the head of the othersThe description in the build up to something dramatic is so amazing, as a reader you're pulled into their lives. Mason believed he wouldn't care after losing everyone close to him until he met Chickadee. Their story is heart warming. A captivating read from the very first page. Definitely one of the best books I've read this year.

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Waiting On Wednesday

 Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.  

Name: Pandemonium

Author: Lauren Oliver

UK release Date: March 1 2012

US release Date: March 2 2012

Summary: Lauren Oliver captivated readers with Delirium, the first book in a thrilling dystopian trilogy in which Lena Haloway dared to fall in love with Alex and escape the cure, the government-mandated procedure that renders a person immune to the disease of love. Lena and Alex staked their lives on leaving their oppressive society, but only Lena broke free.

Pandemonium continues Lena’s gripping story. After escaping from Portland, Maine, Lena makes it to the Wilds and becomes part of an Invalid community, where she transforms herself into a warrior for the resistance. A future without Alex is unimaginable, but Lena pushes forward and fights, both for him and for a world in which love is no longer considered a disease. Swept up in a volatile mix of revolutionaries and counterinsurgents, Lena struggles to survive—and wonders if she may be falling in love again.

Who isnt waiting for this book :P?

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Book Review: The Hollow By Jessica Verday

Name: The Hollow
Author: Jessica Verday
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Release Date: Out now

Summary: When Abbey’s best friend, Kristen, vanishes at the bridge near Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, everyone else is all too quick to accept that Kristen is dead…and rumors fly that her death was no accident. Abbey has never felt so desperately alone. Then she meets Caspian, the gorgeous and mysterious boy who shows up out of nowhere at Kristen’s funeral, and keeps reappearing in Abbey’s life. Caspian clearly has secrets of his own, but he’s the only person who makes Abbey feel normal again...but also special

Review:  The Hollow the most emotionally gripping novel I have read this year. So cleverly and beautifully written. A story based around forbidden love, haunting moments and the headless horsemen I odd combination but an amazing one just the same!

The plot is so original and I have never come across anything like it. I couldn't compare it to anything right now and I love it. A girl falling for someone who isn't exactly what he seems. As well as hanging in a graveyard for most of her free time. One of the things I loved most about this novel was the way Jessica would describe Abbys surroundings. It makes you imagen each and every tombstone in that very haunting graveyard and I think its really effective.

The characters are amazing in this novel. We have Caspian the gorgeous and very haunting lead guy. The way Jessica writes him is so captivating. Then theirs Abby. You can defiantly feel Abby's passion and proudness of her town history and wanting to have her own perfume business I think Jessica writes it perfectly and has made Abby a great role model for people her age. You can defiantly relate to her character in more ways that one.

I love novels that teach me new things and this novel has done that. I had never heard of "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" by American author Washington Irving. And as I read the pages It made me want to learn more about it. Whole different twist to the headless horsemen that will have jaw dropping.

The beautiful scenes between Caspian and Abby are so captivating and gripping. It will leave you swooning for days. I cannot wait to get started on the sequel! read The Hollow you would be Dead crazy not to!

 

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Review: Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

Title: Before I Fall
Author: Lauren Oliver
Publisher: HarperCollins
Pages: 470
Date Published: March 2, 2010

Summary: 

What if you had only one day to live?
What would you do?
Who would you kiss?
And how far would you go to save your own life?
Samantha Kingston has it all: the world's most crush-worthy boyfriend, three amazing best friends, and first pick of everything at Thomas Jefferson High—from the best table in the cafeteria to the choicest parking spot. Friday, February 12, should be just another day in her charmed life.
Instead, it turns out to be her last.
Then she gets a second chance. Seven chances, in fact. Reliving her last day during one miraculous week, she will untangle the mystery surrounding her death—and discover the true value of everything she is in danger of losing.

Review:  First, I want to say that I was on an emotional roller coaster throughout this entire book. I started off not fully liking the novel. It made me  think "I'm so glad I'm not in high school any more!", because in all reality there was some hard truth to this novel.

Sam Kingston goes along on her day how she always would, getting a ride from her best friend and leader of the pack Lindsey, while the other girls Elody and Ally tag along. They could be classified as a clique; the people you love to hate. Their actions and words are hurtful, but they get laughter and pride from it- people join along and they feed off it. As I read, I was upset by the stuff they were doing and how Sam went along with her friends- did things to please them- although you could tell she didn't always agree. 

A small accident changes everything... especially Sam's life. 

How would you feel living the same day over and over again (until you finally got it right)? Honestly, I think it would be exhausting. There were times throughout Before I Fall that I wanted to say "enough already!! Can't Sam just change everything. Wake up from death or wherever it is she's at." 

I would like to applaud Lauren Oliver for taking so many issues that teens face now days- she takes realistic situations and turns it into a beautiful novel. People don't live their lives over and over again after they are dead, until they are able to 'do the right thing' and clear their conscience. But bullying is a real subject, along with the harsh consequences that come with it... suicide. We may not be able to change the outcome once we are gone, but there is a clear message that maybe there is hope for people so they don't get to the point of suicide. Teens need to realize that although their actions may be all fun, laughter and games... it hurts and to someone, anyone, it could mean life or death. 

As I read books they often remind me songs and the song that I had replaying in my mind as I read Before I Fall was If I Die Young by The Band Perry. At first I thought maybe I just had the song stuck in my head because the radio decides to play it over and over, but as I payed close attention to the lyrics: 

A penny for my thoughts, oh no, I'll sell 'em for a dollar. 

They're worth so much more after I'm a goner

And maybe then you'll hear the words I been singing

Funny, when you're dead how people start listening 

 

This reminded me of Sam- how once she knew she died, she tried everything she could to change the things around her. At first it was to save her life, and then she started paying attention to her surroundings and noticed what she had been doing wrong. Juliet was a victim of Sam and her friends, they bullied her- once she was gone, Sam finally decided it was time to change things; that her words and actions do have an effect on people there fore she needed to try and stop Juliet from killing herself (over and over) before it was to late.

I enjoyed reading Before I Fall... there are a few parts that were repetitive (which is understandable because Sam lives the same day over and over again) but could quickly become tiring reading that part over again. But other than that, I really enjoyed Before I Fall. I would recommend this book for the older Young Adult crowd.

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Book Review: Glow By Amy Kathleen Ryan

Name: Glow
Author: Amy Kathleen Ryan
Publisher: Mac Millan

Summary: What if you were bound for a new world, about to pledge your life to someone you'd been promised to since birth, and one unexpected violent attack made survival—not love—the issue? Out in the murky nebula lurks an unseen enemy: the New Horizon. On its way to populate a distant planet in the wake of Earth's collapse, the ship's crew has been unable to conceive a generation to continue its mission. They need young girls desperately, or their zealous leader's efforts will fail. Onboard their sister ship, the Empyrean, the unsuspecting families don't know an attack is being mounted that could claim the most important among them...

Review: Glow is a special read for me, as it's my first proof copy for Dark Readers, thanks to Macmillan.
When I read the summary, I was immediately interested in reading this novel.
Although as much as I love YA and fantasy reads, I have never read anything space-related. When I started reading Glow, I was really confused by the spaceship lingo. It didn't make much sense and I felt like I had to keep re-reading parts to understand.

I persisted with the novel as I instantly fell in love with the main characters, Kieran and Waverley.
Their love for each other is apparent, although there is very little intimacy throughout the novel.
I could immediately see a love triangle forming between Kieran, Waverley and Seth.
As the novel went on, the pace quickened and as a reader you were constantly on the edge of your seat.

How would you feel if everything you've ever known was taken away from you - your home, your family and your love? Confused, frustrated, angry, upset, distraught. These are just a few of the emotions that both Waverley and Kieran went through.The story is based on two spaceships headed for New Earth. Yet, Waverley and the others on the Empyrean have never known of anyone else.

When the girls joined the New Horizon. I wasn't sure where the story would go. I was shocked by some of the things the girls experienced. I instantly felt their emotion, pain and grief.The one character that got under my skin was Anne Mather. I won't say anymore I shall leave that assumption to you.There are a few characters on board the New Horizon that I found myself weary of.

Glow has you so close to the action that you feel like it's actually happening to you.
Would you consider yourself to be a leader? When the going gets tough. Or would you just crumble?
At the beginning of this novel I thought that Waverley was a bit of a spoilt princess, but as the novel progressed I felt her pain.Waverley is a headstrong young woman, yet she never realised this until she was thrown into the worst situation of her 16 year old life.Kieran behaves recklessly in his panic to do good for the sake of his loved ones and for the sake of the boys left behind.

There's a difference between wanting the chance to shine and being given the chance to shine, because you're the only option. This is a predicament that Kieran knows he hasn't a choice in.
Seth's anger at Kieran being their new leader sends him into a downward spiral.
Kieran's grief and lack of personal self confidence is apparent. He wishes he could confide in the captain and in Waverley at his time of need. The love triangle between Waverley, Kieran and Seth is so apparent in the hatred each boy gives the other. Seth is very jealous and Kieran is very insecure.

Kieran and Seth's hatred dominates the middle core of the book. It's action packed and gripping I could not stop reading. As I near the end of the novel the intensity that Waverly, Samantha and Felicity experience is immense and breath-taking.The novel started off slowly but once it got going I was blown away.The way the story is left it leaves you desperate for more. I look forward to seeing what is next for the Sky Chasers series.

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In My Mailbox #50

• For Review: Fury By Elizbeth Miles  (Simon & Schuster)
• For Review: The Hollow By Jessica Verday (Simon & Schuster)
• For Review: The Haunted By Jessica Verday (Simon & Schuster)
• For Review: Finding Sky By Joss Stirling (Oxford)

Dark Readers Quote made The books final copy that is released in the UK October 1st 2011.

I cannot wait to have this book in my hands.

 This is why this weeks IMM is very special. Angel Fire By L.A Weatherly the sequel to Angel/Angel Burn Sneak Peak taster. Was a awesome surprise to me and other bloggers :P

Thanks to all the publishers especially Usborne for sending this stuff x

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Book Review: Betrayal By Lee Nichols

Name: Betrayal
Author: Lee Nichols
Publisher: Bloomsbury

Summary: Emma Vaile is the most powerful ghostkeeper in centuries. Which is great when she's battling the wraith-master Neos, but terrible when she's flirting with fellow ghostkeeper (and soul mate) Bennett. When ghostkeepers fall in love, the weaker one loses all power, and that's not something Bennett can handle. Heartbroken and alone, Emma tries to lose herself in school with fellow ghostkeeper, Natalie. When a new team of ghostkeepers arrive-one a snarky teen boy, the other a British scholar-Emma finds solace in training for the battle against Neos. But as the team grows stronger, they are threatened by an unknown force. One they thought was good.
As chilling and page-turning as Deception, this sequel will grab readers and hold them to the last page. No one is safe from suspicion as Emma closes in on the traitor.

Review:  Back to the awesome ghost hunting world of the Deception series and boy what a awesome ride it is. I couldn't wait to read the next book and as soon as I opened the page I felt like I was home. Home in Emma and Bennett beautiful Complicated love story and the jump out of your seat ghostly action

Two new characters have joined the gang this time around. Lukas the rebellious ladies man ghost keeper who loves pushing Emmas buttons I think he is an awesome asset to this novel as there is no character like him. Simon who's defiantly a father figure to Emma. I find his character really trust worthy and a fantastic read. Coby has defiantly developed as a character in this novel you see a different side of him. Emma is just as strong and brave. I love how much Lee has made Emma more Her bad ass self and more braver in this novel.

The plot this time is just as awesome as "Deception" actually even better. Bennett and Emma's scenes just keep getting more passionate and heartbreaking. Stern House Museum is just as ghostly. Lee makes that building sound like the most awesome atmospheric place to live. Neos is back with a vengeance and Lee has just made it even more exciting for us. Shocking twist I NEVER thought I would see coming. All your theories will defiantly be out the window. Funny, sad, exciting and shocking moments I never saw coming. It will defiantly leave you Surrendering for more!

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Waiting On Wednesday

Name: Anna Dressed In Blood

Author: Kendare Blake

Expected Publication: August 30th , 2011

Summary: Cas Lowood has inherited an unusual vocation: He kills the dead.
So did his father before him, until he was gruesomely murdered by a  ghost he sought to kill. Now, armed with his father's mysterious and  deadly athame, Cas travels the country with his kitchen-witch mother and  their spirit-sniffing cat. Together they follow legends and local lore,  trying to keep up with the murderous dead—keeping pesky things like the  future and friends at bay.
When they arrive in a new town in search of a ghost the locals call Anna  Dressed in Blood, Cas doesn't expect anything outside of the ordinary:  track, hunt, kill. What he finds instead is a girl entangled in curses  and rage, a ghost like he's never faced before. She still wears the  dress she wore on the day of her brutal murder in 1958: once white, now  stained red and dripping with blood. Since her death, Anna has killed  any and every person who has dared to step into the deserted Victorian  she used to call home.
But she, for whatever reason, spares Cas's life.

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Book Review: Wither By Lauren DeStefano

Title: Wither (The Chemical Garden, #1)
Author: Lauren DeStefano
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
Date Published: 3/22/2011
Pages: 358 (hardcover)

Summary: 

Obviously, something went terribly wrong. Genetic mutations have festered, reducing human longevity to twenty-five, even less for most women. To prevent extinction, young girls are kidnapped, mated in polygamous marriages with men eager to procreate. Sixteen-year-old Rhine Ellery, a recent victim of this breeding farm mentality, has vowed to break loose from its fetters; but finding allies and a safe way out is a challenge she can only hope she will survive. A dystopian fantasy series starter with wings. Editor's recommendation.

Review: The summer is ending and new books are coming out in the next few months that I can't wait to get my hands on, so it was time to clear my shelves and read books that I "couldn't wait for!!" & "had to preorder, then stay up to download at midnight on my Nook!" Well, Wither got put into that list of books and after reading this book I'm mad at myself for waiting so long to indulge in a beautifully written novel.

Wither written by Lauren DeStefano is based around the idea of polygamy. I had never read a book about polygamy, but I've watched a few shows about it. This has always been an interesting style of living and I always enjoyed learning about polygamy. So with that being said, I was sucked into Wither from the beginning. ((also, if you aren't familiar w polygamy or aren't a fan... its still a good book!! polygamy is just a small theme based around this dystopian type novel)).

The idea that women (practically still girls) only lives until they're 20 and men until they are 25 was an easy concept that was difficult for me to wrap my head around. I couldn't imagine only being able to live for 20 short years- seems tragic. I kept thinking about all the things that I still planned on doing and places that I still want to explore in the years to come- knowing that if I were in this story my life and dreams would have diminished a few years ago. Sad to think about.

Lauren's novel isn't about 3 sister wives who have their lives handed to them while they live in this gorgeous mansion with a wealthy young man .It may look like that to outsiders, but looks can be deceiving! Controlled by Housemaster Vaughn, no one is safe in this mansion- even his own son is being tricked and doesn't have a clue. Away from family and friends, these three young girls are forced to marry Linden, the Housemaster's son.

let's talk about the characters...

I wanted to like Linden, I really did. But my mind was playing a game of 'tug-of-war'. Rhine and the other two girls are practically being held hostage  and Linden doesn't think twice about it << that's what I didn't like about him. Well, the other part of me felt sorry for Linden because it was obvious that everything was kept a secret from him. And he didn't know the story of how his father, the Housemaster brought these girls for his son to marry. I'm hoping in the next book I can fall for the character a little more ;-) & I hope he sees how true of an ass his father is!!

Housemaster Vaughn creeped me out- enough said! 


And I CAN'T wait for the next book to see what happens with Rhine & Gabriel ((btw... I'm team Gabriel right now. He is so sweet! and I felt as though they both understood each other right from the beginning)). Yes, the ending had me in tears...


A question I kept asking myself:  


If I was in Rhine's position, would I try and escape or would I have made the mansion my new home and embraced that this place is better than my previous life?  I'm still thinking about this question... but I want to know what you would've done. 


Recommend?? YES!!!!! but, I'd recommend this book for older YA readers... probably 14 or 16+ Some of the content and the style of writing is written for more mature young adult readers and of course the adults who LOVE to indulge in YA as well!

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Book Review: Deception By Lee Nichols

Name: Deception
Author: Lee Nichols
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Release Date: Out Now

Summary: When Emma Vaile’s parents go missing while away on a mysterious business trip, she’s left all alone in her creepy old house. But her brother’s very cute best friend, Bennett Stern—Emma’s knight in J. Crew armor—arrives unexpectedly to whisk her away to New England. There, Emma settles into his family’s museum-like mansion and enrolls at an old-fashioned private school. She quickly finds friends in the popular legacy crowd at Thatcher and spends her free time crushing on Bennett. But the eerie visions she’s been hiding from everyone have gotten worse.

Review: Ghosts, Ghosts and more Ghosts. Deception is an amazing haunting tale of a girl discovering what she really is. I haven't read a book about ghosts in a while and Deception has reminded me of how much I love them. This romantic heart felt tale has made me swoon with each chapter.

I love the characters. My favourite ghosts are Celeste, Nicholas and Anatole these amazing loveable ghosts in this novel are beautifully written, Bennett the gorgeous lead guy that Lee Nichols has created. He is such a awesome character I'm sure all the girls will swoon over his good looks, intenseness and amazing personality. And of course Emma, the brave girl who has been through so much and she is defiantly one of my favourite girls in YA! 

The Plot Is amazing a girl coming to terms with the fact she isn't exactly just a normal teenage girl. Loads of hidden secrets, heartbreaking and lonely moments that Lee has written perfectly. I would love to live in the Stern House Museum. The way Lee Nichols describes the building it sounds so beautiful and atmospheric. The ballroom, the piano and even glass windows it defiantly set the tone for the novel. One of my favourite scenes that really set the romance in this novel for me was when Emma and Joshua were in his bedroom. The way they spoke and Held each other was really touching. I loved watching there relationship flourish into something more complicated than I expected

Deception is a Haunting, beautiful, thrilling and jaw dropping love story and as I now have Betrayal (the second novel in the series) I cannot wait for the third instalment and being brought back into Emmas world because its a place I never want to leave. This book brought me in straight away and I couldn't believe how many jaw dropping moments there truly was!

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In My Mailbox #49

• For Review: Delirium By Lauren Oliver (Hodder)
• For Review: Daughter Of Smoke and Bone By Laini Taylor (Hodder)
• For Review: Vicious Little Darlings By Katherine Easer (Boomsbury)

  

• For Review: Vengance By kate Brain (Simon & Schuster)
• For Review: Eat, Slay, Love By Jesse Petersen (Simon & Schuster)
• For Review: Flip The Zombie By Jesse Petersen (Simon & Schuster)
• For Review: The Hidden By Jessica Verday (Simon & Schuster)
• For Review: Deception By Lee Nichols (Bloomsbury)
• For Review: Betrayal By Lee Nichols (Bloomsbury)

Thank you to everyone who sent me these. They all look amazing and I cannot wait to read them and write reviews! stay tuned guys :)

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Book Review: Bossypants by Tina Fey

Title: Bossypants
Author: Tina Fey
Publisher: Little, Brown & Company; April 2011
Pages: 277

Synopsis:  In her acceptance speech for Mark Twain Prize for American Humor, Tina Fey announced that she was proud to make her home in "the 'not-real America'." It is perhaps that healthy sense of incongruity that makes the head writer, executive producer, and star of NBC's Emmy Award-winning 30 Rock such a cogent observer of the contemporary scene. Bossypants, her entertaining new memoir, shows that strangeness has been her constant companion. Fey's stories about her childhood in Upper Darby, Pennsylvania are only appetizers for LOL forays into her college disasters, honeymoon catastrophes, and Saturday Night Live shenanigans. Most funny read of the month; the best possible weekend update.

Review:  First, let's start with the cover- hilarious right? Well, I didn't notice anything was "off" until someone at the library said, "isn't that cover so funny?" I'm sure I gave her the strangest look... like, what do you mean? it's just a picture of Tina Fey! LOL I was told this book would make me laugh, but after seeing the cover, I knew this book had funny potential. 

And it was! I was literally laughing out loud while reading. So much that I had to move into another area in my house- away from people- so they wouldn't look at me and think I was nuts. 

Tine writes about her life's story which I'm sure without even trying to funny is rather comical in itself, so the way she writes this story adds even more humor. I could hear every pause and sarcastic comment roll off her tongue as I read. 

I'd probably have to say my favorite part of this book is a toss up between "The Secrets of Mommy's Beauty" and The Rules of Improvisation. Tina takes everyday realities and brings truth and light to each of her experiences... good and bad. I like when celebrities talk about how they got to where they are today, and not knowing Tina's story, I was surprised that it actually took her a while to earn her status.

If you want a good laugh... read this!! 

P.S.- I had to look a few names of people up while I read... (she gives you permission to do so ;-) haha... so no shame!)

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Book Review: Daughter Of Smoke And Bone By Laini Taylor

Name: Daughter Of Smoke and Bone
Author: Laini Taylor
Publisher: Hodder Books
UK Release date: September 2011

Summary: Meet Karou. She fills her sketchbooks with monsters that may or may not be real; she's prone to disappearing on mysterious "errands"; she speaks many languages—not all of them human; and her bright blue hair actually grows out of her head that color. Who is she? That is the question that haunts her, and she's about to find out.

Review: Monsters, Angels, blood, Gore, excitement, scary and wonderful. These are just some of the words I use to describe this captivating novel.

Never have I come across anything like this. Not even close. I love when I get a new book that I can't compare to any other and this novel is one of them. A jump out of your seat exciting read that I couldn't put down. The way Laini has described Prague is so beautiful and I loved how she described other cities mentioned in the book. It truly felt like you were in there, seeing what Karou sees.

The characters are so captivating in this novel. They are NOT at all what you expect their not exactly human but my gosh you do fall in love with them quickly. I will say that if you love Brave, Loving, scary, courageous characters then this is the story for you. Zuzanna and Karous relationship is so awesome. Funny moments, Touching moments and hopefully moments. These two best friends are great.

The plot is so original. Karou set on errands to retrieve teeth for her "family" but things happen and nothing goes to plan. You may think "Huh" but this story totally works and is so original! Akiva and Karou's relationship is so touching. If you love Sexual tension, atmospheric, love, aggression, heartbreaking and funny moments? These two characters are for you!

If your an artist or appreciate artistic expression I'm sure you will want to be in Karous world. Even if your not? You will want to be. Just when you knew what was going to happen BAM it changes. All your theories out the window with a mind blowing shocking twist. Daughter of Smoke and Bone will snatch you away into a world that will have you captivated from beginning to end.

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Book Trailer Thursday

Name: Dark Still
Author: Leanna Renee Hieber
Expected publication: November 1st 2011
Summary: The Picture of Dorian Gray meets Pride and Prejudice, with a dash of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.
New York City, 1882. Seventeen-year-old Natalie Stewart's latest obsession is a painting of the handsome British Lord Denbury. Something in his striking blue eyes calls to her. As his incredibly life-like gaze seems to follow her, Natalie gets the uneasy feeling that details of the painting keep changing...
Jonathan Denbury's soul is trapped in the gilded painting by dark magic while his possessed body commits unspeakable crimes in the city slums. He must lure Natalie into the painting, for only together can they reverse the curse and free his damaged soul.

Book Trailer:

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Review: Matched by Ally Condie

Title: Matched (Matched Series #1)
Author: Ally Condie
Publisher: Dutton Juvenile
Pages: 384 pgs
Date Published: Nov 2010
Genre: YA

Summary: Cassia has always trusted the Society to make the right choices for her: what to read, what to watch, what to believe. So when Xander's face appears on-screen at her Matching ceremony, Cassia knows with complete certainty that he is her ideal mate . . . until she sees Ky Markham's face flash for an instant before the screen fades to black.

The Society tells her it's a glitch, a rare malfunction, and that she should focus on the happy life she's destined to lead with Xander. But Cassia can't stop thinking about Ky, and as they slowly fall in love, Cassia begins to doubt the Society's infallibility and is faced with an impossible choice: between Xander and Ky, between the only life she's known and a path that no one else has dared to follow.

Review:  This is one of those books that I've been meaning to read and just haven't... so with the second book in the series coming out shortly I decided it was finally time I sat down and read Matched. 

In a world where choices are few and far between, and demands are given on how to live your everyday life- right down to who they will be matched with and later marry, to the portions and selection for their everyday meals- Cassia finds herself in a position that not only affects herself but her family and her love interests. 

I enjoyed reading Matched. The story is fascinating; although I will say frustrating in some ways- mainly the society, but that's what happens when an author chooses to write Dystopian novels. The reader isn't supposed to like the "controller". My expectation for this book was very high, and I believe that made a huge difference in my overall reaction- I don't want to say it didn't meet my expectations, because it did, I truly enjoyed reading this. But there are were a few parts in which I was hoping for stronger reactions and more emotion (from the characters).

The part of this story that I fell in love with the most was how beautifully poetic the writing was. Ally takes a plot and bases it around several poems that reflect the storyline s theme and give the reader insight into the characters thoughts! At the same time, I was heartbroken that they couldn't always keep the poems since the society didn't allow it. I questioned whether or not Cassia would really be able to memorize the entire poem that her grandfather gave to her- maybe that is just because I am horrible at memorization! lol. 

Lets talk about the main characters--- 

In the beginning I was partial to Ky. I enjoyed the fact that Cassia and Xander were best friends and despite all odds were matched. Its a book so anything is bound to happen... but seriously how cool is that! Was kinda hoping more would go on with Xander and Cassia's story. But once Ky's story was out and I was more familiar with him, I began to really like his character. He seemed to have the qualities of a young man that any younger girl would want to date- or maybe I'm speaking for myself? Brilliant, caring, and strong-willed. 

Cassia has a tough desision to make and one that involve Xander- the guy who the society tell her she is to be Matched with & Ky- the outcast who she is slowly falling in love with. I enjoyed being able to go through the decision process with Cassia- I constantly was trying to decide who I believe she should be with and what actions I would take if it were me in her shoes :-)

A character I loved- Cassia's mother. I give that character so much credit. She reminded me of my mother in many ways. Always wanting to obey the rules and stay quiet. Taking the blame for things only if need be- and to other people her personality seemed cowardly and scared, but she was complete opposite that. She is smart and brave and puts her family above all else. 

 I would recommend this book for all readers- was asked if a 9year old could read this and I would say yes. There are a few themes in which they may not understand- how the poem ties into the storyline,  but overall I'd say that any young reader could understand and enjoy this book! ---oh and adults too ;-)

I can not wait for book #2!!! CROSSED- which is out NOVEMBER 1, 2011

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Book Review: Shimmer by Alyson Noel

Name: Shimmer
Author: Alyson Noel
Publisher: Panmacmillan
Release date: 5th August 2011


Summary: Riley Bloom is starting to get to grips with being dead. OK, so she'll never turn thirteen, but she can manifest anything she desires. And, after her first as a Soul Catcher, she's finally got her 'glow' on. Then she meets Rebecca- a furious ghost who is trapped on Earth, desperate to seek revenge for her own death- and Riley's determined to help her, even if it means defying her cute-but-annoying guide, Bodhi, and breaking all the rules...


Review: As you may have already noticed I am a huge fan of Alyson Noel's novels. 
I fell in love with 'The Immortals' series and I adored Ever's sarcastic, cute and incredibly stubborn kid sister, Riley.
So, it won't surprise you how excited I was to hear that there would be a Riley Bloom series.

'Shimmer' takes Riley on a new emotional rollercoaster. She needs to use her initiative and the skills that she acquired in 'Radiance'.
Bodhi and Riley's clashing relationship continues in this instalment. You can't help but smile, Riley is a loveable soul as is Bodhi.

I've loved the relationship between Bodhi and Riley. They both just need to admit they need the other around.
Riley is so strong willed and stubborn, Bodhi does not know what to do with his rebellious apprentice.

The pace in 'Shimmer' is slightly different to that of 'Radiance' as there are a few sinister moments when you are second guessing the characters and where the story will go.

Rebecca is a strange and troubled ghost and she leads the sinister turn of the novel.
Prince Kanta is a strange one and I was wary of him. But I shall leave you to your own assumptions.

Riley has grown so much as a character and as a Soul Catcher. I cannot wait to see where the rest of the series will go.

Each page of 'Shimmer' has you eagerly awaiting the next page, the plot was fantastic and exciting.

What I love about the Riley Bloom series is that at the end of each book, you always get a Q&A with the author Alyson Noel.
Plus a fantastic snippet of the next book which I must admit always makes me want it there and then.
Yep, I cannot wait for the next instalment in 'Dreamland'.

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