Thursday 27 March 2014

UK COVER REVEAL: Ruin and Rising by Leigh Bardugo!

Here is the UK cover for Ruin and Rising, the third book in the Grisha series. Guys this is probably one of the best series I have read. Its such an epic fantasy! It is released 19th of June this year!!! ekkk
 
 
AMAZING ISNT IT? AHHHH :D
 
Summary:
The capital has fallen. The Darkling rules Ravka from his shadow throne. Now the nation's fate rests with a broken Sun Summoner, a disgraced tracker, and the shattered remnants of a once-great magical army.
Deep in an ancient network of tunnels and caverns, a weakened Alina must submit to the dubious protection of the Apparat and the zealots who worship her as a Saint. Yet her plans lie elsewhere, with the hunt for the elusive firebird and the hope that an outlaw prince still survives.
Alina will have to forge new alliances and put aside old rivalries as she and Mal race to find the last of Morozova's amplifiers. But as she begins to unravel the Darkling's secrets, she reveals a past that will forever alter her understanding of the bond they share and the power she wields. The firebird is the one thing that stands between Ravka and destruction - and claiming it could cost Alina the very future she’s fighting for.
 
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Friday 21 March 2014

Hot Key Blogger Brunch

Recently, I was lucky enough to meet the lovely people at Hot Key books for the very first time and I am pleased to say I was welcomed with open arms and thankfully I was able to stay for pizza before dashing back to work.
There were presentations from Hot Key books, Piccadilly Press and Templar Fiction.

From Templar I am looking forward to:

Stitch Up By Sophie Hamilton 


Dasha Gold enjoys a life of privilege, but it comes at a price extreme image control, including cosemtic surgery to transform her into a living logo for her parents global corporation. Presented with a way out, Dasha embarks on a hunt for the truth that takes her across a divided and CCTV dominated city, in the company of maverick Londoner Latif. But money talks and the Golds own the media. Who can Dasha really trust?

No Going Back By Alex Gutteridge


Fifteen-year-old Laura gets the shock of her life when she moves to rural Derbyshire and finds the ghost of her dead father in her grandmother's home. At first Laura is overjoyed to see him, but as time passes she begins to wonder why her dad is finding it so difficult to move on, and why her mother still refuses to talk about his death. What is the secret that has been kept from her all these years?

From Hot Keys:

Say Her Name By James Dawson (I have already read this and am currently working on th review and something creative)

Roberta 'Bobbie' Brown is not the kind of person who believes in ghosts. A Halloween dare at her ridiculously spooky boarding school is no big deal, especially when her best friend Naya and cute local boy Caine agree to join in too. They are ordered to summon the legendary ghost of 'Bloody Mary', say her name five times in front of a candlelit mirror, and she shall appear...but, surprise surprise nothing happens.

Or does it?
Next morning, Bobbie finds a message on her bathroom mirror....five days...but what does it mean? And who left it there? Things get increasingly weird and more terrifying for Bobbie and Naya, until it becomes all too clear that Bloody Mary was indeed callsed from the afterlife that night, and she is in a race against time befre their five days are up and Mary comes for them, as she has come for countless others before....

Love Letters To The Dead By Ava Dellaira


It begins as an assignment for English class: write a letter to a dead person- any dead person. Laurel chooses Kurt Cobain- he died young, and so did Laurel's sister May- so maybe he'll understand a bit of what Laurel is going through. Soon Laurel is writing letters to lots of dead people Janis Joplin, Heath Ledger, River Phoenix, Amelia Earheart...it's like she can't stop. And she'd certainly never dream of handing them in to her teacher. She writes about what it's like going to a new high school, meeting new friends, falling in love for the first time and how her family shattered since May died.

There is so much to look forward to this is just a snapshot. I was lucky enough to also get a copy of Maureen Johnson's Suite Scarlett.


I hope to try and read this before the next in the series is released.

So that is all from me for now. I am still aware I still owe some people books plus I am to pick the winners of the Jodi Picoult comp soon I promise.

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Thursday 20 March 2014

Book Review: HALF BAD by Sally Green



Name: Half Bad
Author: Sally Green
UK publisher: Penguin
UK release date: OUT NOW
Summary:You can't read, can't write, but you heal fast, even for a witch. You get sick if you stay indoors after dark. You hate White Witches but love Annalise, who is one. You've been kept in a cage since you were fourteen. All you've got to do is escape and find Mercury, the Black Witch who eats boys. And do that before your seventeenth birthday.

Review: First off let me just say I LOVE the cover, and this one got me. With that being said perspective can be a great things when reading a book, and after reading Half Bad I feel like my anger may have actually been a deeper connection with the books and the events than I was giving it credit for at the time. The premise of this plot was what drew me in, and the subtlety of the magical world within a non-magical society was enough that I could let it grow in my mind with my own interpretations of magic. There is a limit though as to how much I can imagine myself, and I constantly felt I wasn't being given enough to connect with the situations, even when I understood them.

There was a bluntness to the writing because of the first person narrative which gave it pace and perspective, but at times this really let the story down, and this is a problem I often have with first person, so at time I was left going "..!" whilst reading, when something would happen or information would be given. In my world this means something along the lines of 'really, I'm just going to have to go with that am I'.  This isn't to say the whole book was like this, there were some really sweet moments and moments that tugged at the emotional strings! The first person also meant that at times I felt I wasn't getting proper character development with certain people, with who I felt there could have been great characterization. This culminated with me ending up not liking the main character by the end of the book.

I will give credit though for having an anti hero as a main character, someone who dabbles in the dark, and some of the issues his character raised I think allow for some great moral debates as the series continues, and because of that I do sort of want to continue reading.

So for me half bad was just that, half bad or maybe I should say Half Good...Let's Hope Half Wild, gets really wild and steps things up a notch. 



STEPHEN
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Monday 17 March 2014

Book Review: Amy & Matthew A Love Story By Cammie McGovern

Name: Amy & Matthew a love story 
Author: Cammie McGovern
UK release date: 27 March 2014
Summary: Amy is unflinchingly honest about her limitations. Born with cerebral palsy, she can’t walk or talk without help. But trapped inside this uncooperative body lies a brilliant mind and a luminous spirit – a girl capable of truly loving and worthy of being loved in return. Matthew has his own set of challenges – a mind consumed by unwanted repeated thoughts, obsessive rituals and a crippling fear that he can't explain. But underneath all of the anxiety lies a deep seed of hope for someone to come along who believes in him… This is the story of Amy and Matthew. It may not be a fairy tale romance or set in an imagined world far from our own. But the love they share is real. And yes, there's magic in it

Review: I'm not a Huge contemporary fan. I like books that are far away from the truth as possible. But when I read the summary of this book I felt a huge draw to it, and I am so glad I read it.
Literally something I've never ever read about, never would think of reading. A girl with Cerebral palsy and a boy with OCD. Sounds like a disaster love story yes? In some ways, but in others an amazing tear jerker.

I loved the writing style in this book. A lot of inner monologue which was so refreshing. Cammies writing is very clever and addicting. I loved the characters. Amy, the girl seventeen year old with Cerebral palsy trying to get through high school. And Matthew who's OCD is effecting his life pretty badly. I found these characters so refreshing to read. Their not perfect they have issues like real people. They come together to help each other and end up falling in love in the loveliest way ever. 

Cammie deals with cerebral palsy beautifully in this book. Its descriptive but no to much to take away from the love story. I feel like shes defiantly done her research or has experienced cerebral palsy in her life. 

This book felt really real. It brought out emotions I never thought I could feel. That little pain in your chest when something is just so emotional literally happened every other page. It's just an all around epic love story not about the generic hot guy and non popular girl in school, this is so much better.

A warm, magnificent and delicate love story that will break your heart and stitch it back together again.



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Sunday 16 March 2014

Blog Tour: Maybe Someday by Colleen Hoover



Today Dark Readers are hosting the Maybe Someday blog tour, my review will follow soon. (Hayley here btw)

Here is an extract from Colleen Hoover's latest novel...

I lean forward in the chair, rest my arms on the edge of the balcony, and watch him. His balcony is directly across the courtyard, far enough away that I don’t feel weird when I watch him but close enough that I make sure I’m never watching him when Hunter’s around. I don’t think Hunter would like the fact that I’ve developed a tiny crush on this guy’s talent. 

I can’t deny it, though. Anyone who watches how passionately this guy plays would crush on his talent. The way he keeps his eyes closed the entire time, focusing intently on every stroke against every guitar string. I like it best when he sits cross-legged with the guitar upright between his legs. He pulls it against his chest and plays it like a stand-up bass, keeping his eyes closed the whole time. It’s so mesmerizing to watch him that sometimes I catch myself holding my breath, and I don’t even realize I’m doing it until I’m gasping for air.

It also doesn’t help that he’s cute. At least, he seems cute from here. His light brown hair is unruly and moves with him, falling across his forehead every time he looks down at his guitar. He’s too far away to distinguish eye color or distinct features, but the details don’t matter when coupled with the passion he has for his music. There’s a confidence to him that I find compelling. I’ve always admired musicians who are able to tune out everyone and everything around them and pour all of their focus into their music. To be able to shut the world off and allow yourself to be completely swept away is something I’ve always wanted the confidence to do, but I just don’t have it.
This guy has it. He’s confident and talented. I’ve always been a sucker for musicians, but more in a fantasy way. They’re a different breed. A breed that rarely makes for good boyfriends.
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Friday 14 March 2014

Book Review: Dodger By James Benmore

Name: Dodger
Author: James Benmore
Publisher: Heron Books

SummaryLondon, 1850s. 
After five years in an Australian penal colony, the Artful Dodger returns to London in search of a hidden fortune. Unaware of the fate that befell Twist, Fagin and Sikes, Dodger revisits the criminal underworld of Dickensian London to seek out his old comrades, any of whom might possess the key to the treasure. 
He finds the city a changed place from his youth: with law and order upheld by a new police force, Fagin gone to the gallows, his old gang scattered and danger around every corner.


Review: Thanks to the world of Twitter I discovered James Benmore and Dodger. Just from hearing about this book I was instantly intrigued. Who didn't adore Oliver Twist and Dodger, well he was the cheeky scamp everyone liked on the quiet. If Dickens were alive today he would laugh and smile at the way James has written Dodger. The flare and creativity is out of this world. Everyone knows the story of Oliver Twist and how that tale ended.
What I truly liked about Dodger is that it's like just after the film although six years later. 
The anguish and despair when Jack finds out that Nancy is dead and that she was brutally killed by Bill a guy he had idolised all his life is a truly heartbreaking moment.
I love the way James has brought to life a character who could seem somewhat dated. Even though he writes in the correct era for the Artful Dodger aka Jack Dawkins it still feels like he has modernised him in a way. The charismatic Dodger still has the charm and flare he's always had and that's what makes us readers like him. Even though part of you is thinking you'll get caught and deserve it the majority of your brain is egging him on to be safe.

Dodger is about a journey that Jack is going through to become an honest gentleman. Ok, sure he is never going to be that honest. The journey he takes in order to have his life back is both humorous and sad a long the way. Jack makes an unlikely friend in Warrigal as well as learning a lot about himself along the way. 

All that is left to say is go grab a copy.
I cannot wait to read more about the delightful Jack Dawkins in June when James releases Dodger of the dials.

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Sunday 9 March 2014

Book Review: The Name On Your Wrist by Helen Hiorns

Name: The Name On Your Wrist
Author: Helen Hiorns
UK Publisher: Random House
UK Release date: OUT NOW
Summary: It's the first thing they teach you when you start school. But they don't need to; your parents tell you when you're first learning how to say your name. It's drummed into you whilst you're taking your first stumbling steps. It's your lullaby. From the moment it first appears, you don't tell anyone the name on your wrist.

In Corin's world, your carpinomen - the name of your soul mate, marked indelibly on your wrist from the age of two or three - is everything. It's your most preciously guarded secret; a piece of knowledge that can give another person ultimate power over you. People spend years, even decades, searching for the one they're supposed to be with.

But what if you never find that person? Or you do, but you just don't love them? What if you fall for someone else - someone other than the name on your wrist?

And what if - like Corin - the last thing in the world you want is to be found?

Review: Being a big dystopian fan I really enjoyed The Name On Your Wrist. The idea of having a carpinomen etched forever on your skin to tell you who your one soul mate is made me feel so many different things – reassured that there is one perfect person out there for you, but also completely restricted about who you could fall in love with. Being in a relationship with people with different names is frowned upon and as a teenager I can imagine that it would be hard to cover up your feelings for someone that didn’t match the secret name on your wrist.

There were plenty of twists and secrets in the plot, particularly around about Corin’s sister Jacinta. I was completely hooked on the story and what had happened to both girls. There were revelations that had me shocked, awed and saddened. My one bugbear was the ending, which whilst completely unexpected and thrilling didn’t quite fit with my ideas of who Corin was.

I loved Corin – she was snarky, not afraid to stand up for herself and had a big chip on her shoulder. She didn’t really have any friends, but she was bold and brave and I really liked her. Although I was dubious about Colton and his interest in Corin at first, I could see that he was really good for her and together they were a great match. Despite the questions surrounding whether they might be carpinomens, I was rooting for them 100%.

Helen Hoirns’ debut book will keep you on your toes and make you really think about love, soul mates, and the value of freedom and personal choice.





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Thursday 6 March 2014

Book Review: Ten Tiny Breaths By K.A Tucker.



Name: Ten Tiny Breaths
Author: K.A Tucker
UK Release date: OUT NOW
Summary: Kacey Cleary’s whole life imploded four years ago in a drunk-driving accident. Now she’s working hard to bury the pieces left behind—all but one. Her little sister, Livie. Kacey can swallow the constant disapproval from her born-again aunt Darla over her self-destructive lifestyle; she can stop herself from going kick-boxer crazy on Uncle Raymond when he loses the girls’ college funds at a blackjack table. She just needs to keep it together until Livie is no longer a minor, and then they can get the hell out of Grand Rapids, Michigan.

But when Uncle Raymond slides into bed next to Livie one night, Kacey decides it’s time to run. Armed with two bus tickets and dreams of living near the coast, Kacey and Livie start their new lives in a Miami apartment complex, complete with a grumpy landlord, a pervert upstairs, and a neighbor with a stage name perfectly matched to her chosen “profession.” But Kacey’s not worried. She can handle all of them. What she can’t handle is Trent Emerson in apartment 1D.

Review: New adult is my favourite genre at the moment, and I am always looking for amazing new titles. I cannot believe I haven’t read anything from K.A Tucker sooner. She’s like the Queen of NA at the moment. What I love about Ten Tiny Breaths Is the fact yes it has sex, yes it has all the NA themes, But the story line is so addicting. From the beginning of this novel I was so hooked. K.A Tucker takes you into her story and leaves you with the shock factor.

 I loved the pace of this book. It felt real. Kacey is going through a tough time due to her parents being killed in a car accident, and her having to look after her 15-year-old sister. I loved Kacey as a character (plus She shares my name :D) she’s a brave, cool, funny and empowering girl who is very inspirational.  I loved reading her scenes.

Then there is Trent. Oh my God. The man is on fire. He is probably one of the best NA guys I have come across. He is very addicting, charismatic, and has a huge secret that will shock the hell out of you. I loved Kacey and Trent’s scenes together. There was Sexual tension like no other. If you enjoy NA or are looking to start reading it then pick up Ten tiny breaths. It will leave you breathless.





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Book Review: Trouble By Non Pratt

Book Name: Trouble
Author: Non Pratt
UK Publisher: Walker Books
UK Release date: TODAY! 6th March!!
Summary: A boy. A girl. A bump. Trouble.

Hannah’s smart and funny ... she’s also fifteen and pregnant. Aaron is new at school and doesn’t want to attract attention. So why does he offer to be the pretend dad to Hannah’s unborn baby? 

Growing up can be trouble but that’s how you find out what really matters.

Review: So when I was given "Trouble" I was hesitant...But I read the summary and was curious! And I'm so glad I read it. From the first line of this book it had me hooked! 

This book is funny, realistic, shocking, touching and defiantly a book British teens should read, for many reasons; a miss understood girl, a mysterious guy who isn't the "typical" one you would read in a YA. She's pregnant at 15... He's going through a hard time... They both come together in the most unlikely of relationships which becomes one of the great YAs of 2014.  

Aaron's different. He's interesting. I can see why the Hannah character has a curiosity about him. Hannah is a funny brave character and I really enjoyed her. I feel the relationship between these two is so refreshing! And so enjoyable to read. I loved that it switched between two characters. It's always great hearing what each main character is thinking! 

I loved the plot I think it's obviously controversial but I feel like this book needed to come out! What with all the "Teen Mom" tv shows showing it isn't glamorous being a teen mom I feel the readers out there can read this book and make light of a sticky situation. You think "oh no not another teen pregnancy book" but this one is interesting. It's very original! 

I think the language used in this book isn't at all like the language I've seen in UK YA in the past. It isn't fake in terms of what older people think teenagers talk like. Non Pratt got the teenage language down to a T.

If you enjoy a lovely UK contemporary book about love, compassion and sweet moments...then this is the one for you!




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Sunday 2 March 2014

Casey's Top 5 Contemporary books read this year.


Hello Lovely people,

Casey here, and today I wanted to share with you my quick top 5 contemporary reads that I have read this year. Some are not out yet BUT they will be very soon. So here we go:

Eleanor & Park By Rainbow Rowell

Now probably everyone in the YA world has read this book. Why wouldn't you? it has everything
you want. Love, acceptance, hilarious moments and this book oozes the quote " Don't judge a book by its cover".

Trouble By Non Pratt

A book released in FOUR DAYS in the UK: 6th of March. This book is probably one of the best contempt's I have read. It covers a controversial subject (teenage pregnancy) that I haven't come across much in YA. Its a beautiful, emotional, funny, kind and unberliavable story of two people finding themselves and each other. 

Sweet thing by Renee Carlino

You could put this book in the NA section of your bookshelves as well as Contempt. My fav quote from the book " You have to teach your heart and mind how to sing together....then you'll hear the sound of your soul" If you are a fan of romance, Music, hipsters, and a good NA... pick up this book!

Amy & Matthew A Love story

 This book felt really real. It brought out emotions I never thought I could feel. That little pain in your chest when something is just so emotional literally happened every other page. It's just an all around epic love story not about the generic hot guy and non popular girl in school, this is so much better.
A warm, magnificent and delicate love story that will break your heart and stitch it back together again. Released 27 March.

The Moment Collector by Jodi Lynn Anderson

I don't read many Murder Mysteries, but when I saw the cover and summary I thought wow. I am so glad I read it. If you're a fan of the lovely bones you will lap this book up. A fresh, emotional, beautifully told story through an epic author. Released 7th of August. (something to look forward to)

Those are my top contempts I have read this year. What contempts are you loving at the moment? LET ME KNOW! comment below! x





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