The Paperback Princesses

Waiting on Wednesday - Partials by Dan Wells

2012-03-07T08:00:00.012-05:00

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we’re eagerly anticipating or books that are in our TBR pile. This week’s “can’t-wait-to-read” selection is -

Partials is a title I came across while browsing the HarperTeen website. Sounds thrilling! Can't wait to read it!

The human race is all but extinct after a war with Partials—engineered organic beings identical to humans—has decimated the population. Reduced to only tens of thousands by RM, a weaponized virus to which only a fraction of humanity is immune, the survivors in North America have huddled together on Long Island while the Partials have mysteriously retreated. The threat of the Partials is still imminent, but, worse, no baby has been born immune to RM in more than a decade. Our time is running out.

Kira, a sixteen-year-old medic-in-training, is on the front lines of this battle, seeing RM ravage the community while mandatory pregnancy laws have pushed what's left of humanity to the brink of civil war, and she's not content to stand by and watch. But as she makes a desperate decision to save the last of her race, she will find that the survival of humans and Partials alike rests in her attempts to uncover the connections between them—connections that humanity has forgotten, or perhaps never even knew were there.

In Case you Missed It - Rose Bush by Michele Jaffe

2012-03-06T08:00:00.000-05:00

Published: July 14th, 2010

Publisher: Razorbill

Pages: 326

Copy: Library

Summary: Goodreads

Instead of celebrating Memorial Day weekend on the Jersey Shore, Jane is in the hospital, trying to determine how she woke up, paralyzed, in a rosebush. Her friends convince her she was the victim of a hit-and-run accident. But Jane begins to suspect that someone is out to kill her. Now, she must use the clues left behind by each person who visits her in the hospital—friend, stranger, enemy—to piece together what really happened, before it's too late. The truth will change her life forever. That is, if it doesn't kill her.

When I picked up Rosebush at work the other day, I had absolutely no idea why I had placed a hold on it. I didn't recognise the title or the cover and I don't remember hearing anything about it. Often when that happens I'm reluctant to start the book - I have so many others for review that it almost seems irresponsible to spend time on one that I know nothing about, but it intrigued me and I decided to give it a go. Well, what I found in Rosebush was a tight, well written mystery with enough twists and turns and false leads to keep even the most demanding reader happy. It was wonderful!

The main protagonist, Jane, wakes up in hospital with no memory of how she got there and she's paralysed. - the victim of a hit and run. The way Ms Jaffe weaves her tale has the reader wondering very quickly just exactly what happened. Is someone trying to kill Jane or is she imagining it? Every time I thought I had a handle on what was going on Ms Jaffe would throw another spanner in the works. I thought I would get frustrated, but in fact, I just became more involved. I wanted to help Jane get to the bottom of the mystery.

Jane's friends, Langley and Kate have their own sets of problems, and her boyfriend David - well there's something a little strange about him. Is her mother really as uncaring as she seems, or is Jane contributing to the problem? There are not two, but three hot guys in the story and each one is suspect. So many questions, so many possible answers, but only one is the right one. I found it easy to relate to Jane - perhaps because I was hit by a car many years ago and still have 12 hours I can't remember - but she seems like a typical teenager and her reactions do not seem forced or unreal.

When the big reveal comes at the end, I admit to being shocked. I hadn't guessed. Oh, I'd had an inkling, but decided I was wrong. I still can't work out why I didn't see this book back in 2010. Did anyone read it back then? Rosebush will satisfy even the most demanding of mystery afficionados. Get set for a wild ride.

In My Mailbox March 5th

2012-03-05T08:00:00.006-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren in which bloggers post about the books they have received for the week. Books may be won, taken out from the library or bought from a store.

I just had a couple of titles in my mailbox this week (good thing too since I'm swamped with life!) -

Hey, are you seeing a theme here? Girls with hair blowing in flowy, gauzy dresses.....what's in your mailbox?

Legend by Marie Lu

2012-03-04T08:00:00.001-05:00

Published: Nov 2011

Publisher: Putnam Juvenile

Pages: 305

Copy: Library

Summary: Goodreads

What was once the western United States is now home to the Republic, a nation perpetually at war with its neighbors. Born into an elite family in one of the Republic's wealthiest districts, fifteen-year-old June is a prodigy being groomed for success in the Republic's highest military circles. Born into the slums, fifteen-year-old Day is the country's most wanted criminal. But his motives may not be as malicious as they seem.

From very different worlds, June and Day have no reason to cross paths - until the day June's brother, Metias, is murdered and Day becomes the prime suspect. Caught in the ultimate game of cat and mouse, Day is in a race for his family's survival, while June seeks to avenge Metias' death. But in a shocking turn of events, the two uncover the truth of what has really brought them together, and the sinister lengths their country will go to keep its secrets.

Full of nonstop action, suspense, and romance, this novel is sure to move readers as much as it thrills

Told in alternating 1st person pov's, Legend whips along at a rate of knots. There is a sense of inevitablility to the story, but it never becomes predictable. Day and June seem like two sides of the same coin. Raised in different circumstances, but with the same strong sense of right and wrong and a firm belief in the importance of family. Both are very smart and agile, very much their own person. Willing to listen to others, but not follow blindly.

Thomas was a very interesting seconday character and he surprised me. He is one of those people who never questions an order - just follows it, no matter the consequences. I'm not sure I liked him very much.

This futuristic, dystopian world was easy to imagine and believe and the action was compelling. I absolutely loved this wonderfully enthralling story that just wouldn't let me go and stayed with me long after I finished it. If you haven't given it a try yet - go for it!

Caught in Crystal by Patricia C Wrede

2012-03-03T08:00:00.000-05:00

Published: January 2011 (Originally published 1987)

Publisher:

ecopy: Courtesy of Netgalley and publisher

Summary: Goodreads

There stands a twisted tower.. hidden in the Windhome Mountains. Something is imprisoned there - the Sisterhood of Stars does not know precisely what, but something is bound tight with a wizard's spell so that it can never escape again. Kayl is one of the few to have looked upon the Twisted Tower. She has no desire to see it again - she left the Sisterhood long ago, settling down to a quiet life. Her sword lies unused in a secret place beneath the stones of her hearth. But something evil is leaking from the Tower. And now a sorceress and a wizard have appeared on Kayl's doorstep, demanding she take up the sword again.

Caught in Crystal was originally published in 1987 and is being republished as an e-book along with the four other titles in the Lyra series: Daughter of Witches; Shadow Magic; The Harp of Imach Thyssel; The Raven King. While not a YA title, there is no reason that this book cannot be read by younger readers.

It's an old school fantasy, with a story that takes place slowly over several months. The magic is the kind used by sorceresses and wizards and there are three alien species living alongside the humans. The main protagonist, Kayl, is an older women with two children. When her past catches up with her she has to leave her home with her children and journey for several months in order to neutralise a terrible evil that she may have been partly responsible for unleashing on the world.

Glydon is a sympathetic friend who helps Kayl on her journey. He has his own set of problems that create some mystery throughout the story. There is also a little bit of a romance here, but it is very gentle and unobtrusive. Don't get me wrong tho', the story is exciting and mysterious. The world is fully realised, the characters are varied and interesting, with particularly strong females, and it all comes together with a very satisfying ending.

Now I haven't read the other four books in the series, but it is my understanding that although they are part of a series, the connecting factor is the world the stories take place on and not the characters themselves. I'll be making a point of reading the other four.

Patricial Wrede has also written several YA novels, my favourites being the four Enchanted Forest Chronicles. I reviewed them several months ago as one of our 'In Case You Missed It' posts and you can read a little about them HERE If you're interested in finding out more about Ms Wrede, check out her website or you can see a really interesting interview here

Books to Movies

2012-03-02T08:00:00.003-05:00

As you know, we both love books...but we are also movieholics as well. So what's better than your favorite book turned into a movie (unless its horribly misinterpreted)?

Here are a few books that have been picked up by Hollywood and expected to hit the big screen

And for TV

I haven't heard much about The Selection but I'm totally psyched about Beautiful Creatures.

Oh, and it looks as if some new life is being breathed into the production of Cassie Clare's

and I'm ultra excited about that one.

Follow Friday - March 2nd

2012-03-02T08:00:00.001-05:00

Feature and Follow is a blog hop that was started by Parajunkee and Alison Can Read. Each week a different question is posted by our hosts and we will answer! This is a great opportunity for bloggers to network and interact. This weeks question is:

Q: What book would you love to see made into a movie or television show and do you have actors/actresses in mind to play the main characters?

I would really like to see Sara Rees Brennan's Demon trilogy as a movie or tv series. The idea of the Goblin Market just fills me with ideas and dancing in circles for demons - ooh it gives me shivers. I don't have many actors in mind, but I'd love to see Eddie Redmayne as Alan, I think he'd be perfect.

Welcome to the Paperback Princesses! Make yourself at home, take a look around our blog and let us know what you think in the comments section. We would love to hear what you have to say about our posts. We often try to comment on your comments as well so feel free to start a conversation! Since there are two of us running the show, we always have a variety of titles and event postings. Be sure to check out our own personal meme page. Check out Fantastic Fairytales, Let's Hear it for the Boys, In Case you Missed it and a few others. We try to not only focus on new YA books but also great titles from the past.

Gleek update

2012-03-01T08:00:00.001-05:00

I just recently got caught up on a few Glee episodes. Here are my favorite Glee moments

Who doesn't like cute school boys in uniforms? Besides, this song is kinda catchy and I've had it in my head all week.

For a little inspiration

Love, love love this mix...

I was surfing YouTube and came across this master of cover tunes. I've never heard Sam Tsui and Kurt Schneider before but these two superstars are AMAZING!! I highly recommend you subscribe to their channel. If not, you'll be sure to see more in another post...

Waiting on Wednesday - When the Sea is Rising Red by Cat Hellison

2012-02-29T08:00:00.000-05:00

After seventeen-year-old Felicita’s dearest friend, Ilven, kills herself to escape an arranged marriage, Felicita chooses freedom over privilege. She fakes her own death and leaves her sheltered life as one of Pelimburg’s magical elite behind. Living in the slums, scrubbing dishes for a living, she falls for charismatic Dash while also becoming fascinated with vampire Jannik. Then something shocking washes up on the beach: Ilven's death has called out of the sea a dangerous, wild magic. Felicita must decide whether her loyalties lie with the family she abandoned . . . or with those who would twist this dark power to destroy Pelimburg's caste system, and the whole city along with it.

Due to the changes with Google Follower, we are now asking all new, and returning, followers to use Linky Follower in the right hand column of our page. Google Follower Connect will be discontinued at the end of February. Thanks

Musings by Knitwits - Lovely Knits for Little Girls by Vibe Sondergard

2012-02-28T08:00:00.000-05:00

Once a month Christinabean and I like to bring a craft, knitting or cookbook to your attention. We both love to pick up a pair of knitting needles or some other type of needle, or putter about in the kitchen and we like to share the love when we find a book that will help. This months selection is:

Published: February 21st, 2102

Publisher: Taunton Press

Pages: 144

Copy: Netgalley and Publisher

Summary: Netgalley

While project books for making baby knits abound, what happens when your little cherub turns two? Lovely Knits for Little Girls solves the problem beautifully, with twenty patterns for pint-sized vests, dresses, sweaters, and skirts-all brimming with pretty, girly details. Forget about baby-weight yarn, tiny needles, and fussy patterns for clothes that are quickly outgrown. For Lovely Knits, knitwear designer Vibe Sondegaard creates a bright, stylish, little-girl wardrobe of fabulous projects that knit up quickly and allow knitters plenty of opportunity for trying a few design tricks (cables, bobbles, lace patterns) on a manageable, kid-sized scale. Best of all, the pattern shapes size up or down easily (with back of book instruction on doing just that), making this collection versatile enough to use again and again.

• Gorgeous, girly designs that knit up fast; just-right sizes for little girls ages toddler to seven. Garment styles are classic and unfussy, with pretty lace, cable, and stitch pattern details• Great for both experienced and beginning knitters alike: with clear instructions and simple design tricks that allow knitters to experiment on a manageable, kid-sized scale
• A versatile wardrobe of lovely pieces to knit: cardigans, sweaters, dresses, vests, and accessories-plus helpful instruction on shaping and constructing knit pieces, choosing yarn, and sizing patterns

Christinabean, this book is for you.

I loved the designs in this so much that it (almost) makes me wish my 25 yr old daughter was five again - or maybe not! There are some beautiful, innovative styles that have been scaled down for your kids, or grandkids, nieces or even your little sisters. There are so many different styles to choose from - simple to fairly complex. From little shrugs and cowls, and a garter stitch vest to fancy cardigans and sweet dresses. There are so many gorgeous yarns available today that it should be fairly easy to find something soft and cuddly to use with these designs for your little girl.

As the blurb points out, this book fills a niche that is normally low on patterns - those for younger girls, and these designs really are wonderful and worth knitting. With over 20 beautiful patterns to choose from, you'll really be spoilt for choice.

Due to the changes with Google Follower, we are now asking all new, and returning, followers to use Linky Follower in the right hand column of our page. Google Follower Connect will be discontinued at the end of February. Thanks

In My Mailbox - February 27th

2012-02-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren in which bloggers post about the books they have received for the week. Books may be won, taken out from the library or bought from a store.

Not a lot this week, but as usual for me it's a bit of a mixed bunch - historical, parnormal and thriller:

Hope you have something interesting in your mailbox.

Destined by P.C. and Kristin Cast

2012-02-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

Published

Publisher
Pages

Copy Provided by:

Summary:

Breathing hard, Aurox stood there over the bodies of his vanquished enemies. He turned to Neferet.

"Very good," she said in her emotionless voice. "Let us leave this place before the authorities descend."

Aurox followed her. He walked heavily, his hooves gouging furrows in the dirty alley.

Weak. He felt weak. And more. There was something else.

"What is it?" She snapped at him when he hesitated before entering the car again.

"I do not know. I feel--"

She laughed. "You don't feel at all. You're obviously overthinking this."

"Yes, Priestess." Aurox got in the car and let the world speed past him.I do not think. I do not feel. I am a weapon.

Zoey is finally home where she belongs, safe with her Guardian Warrior, Stark, by her side, and preparing to face off against Neferet -- which would be a whole lot easier if the High Council saw the ex-High Priestess for what she really is. Kalona has released his hold on Rephaim, and, through Nyx's gift of a human form, Rephaim and Stevie Rae are finally able to be together -- if he can truly walk the path of the Goddess and stay free of his father's shadow.

But there are new forces at work at the House of Night. An influx of humans, including Lenobia's handsome horse whisperer, threatens their precarious stability. And then there's the mysterious Aurox, a jaw-droppingly gorgeous teen boy who is actually more -- or possibly less -- than human. Only Neferet knows he was created to be her greatest weapon. But Zoey can sense the part of his soul that remains human, the compassion that wars with his Dark calling. And there's something strangely familiar about him . . .

Will Neferet's true nature be revealed before she succeeds at extinguishing Light? And will Zoey be able to touch Aurox's humanity in time to protect them all? Find out what's destined in the next thrilling chapter of the House of Night series.

Review:

I'm going to be honest with you. I have had a love/hate relationship with this series for the past year or two. I really enjoyed the first few books and then it started turning strange. The last book nearly had me quitting the entire House of Night series but I thought I'd give it one last shot. I received a copy of Destined from the book publisher and I'm glad I read it. The House of Night is almost like watching a cheesy soap opera but instead, you're reading about it. Some of it is so incredulous and you wonder how you can possibly watch another episode because its reaching new heights of ridonculous but curiosity always gets the best of you and you crack open the next book in the series.

Let's talk Neferet. How can this woman still be employed? How does no one except for Zoey's herd nerd see how evil this woman is? Has she truly escaped the scrutiny of all of her peers? And, especially after the last stunt she pulled at the end of book #8?

I have to admit that I enjoyed Destined. Sometimes the crazy talk and swearing bothers me. I still wouldn't recommend it to a younger audience but the "teen talk" is identifiable for mid-teens to an older audience. For those of you who are (ahem) in your 20's+, be forewarned...the bantering might start to drive you round the bend. The story continues at the House of Night with Zoey's crew trying to prove that Neferet is indeed in league with Darkness and there are several deaths that gang need to deal with. I was pleasantly surprised with the end and how quickly the pace picked up. I will be waiting for Book #10 called Hidden coming out in October. I'm such a sucker...hey, when you've invested this much time into a series, its hard to quit. It's called A-D-D-I-C-T-I-O-N...yes, I'm one of those people easily influenced by an infomercial...

Oh, and one last thing...if you have never read a House of Night title, please don't start with book #9. That's just silly. If you're going to start part-way through, at least go with #1 or #2.

Pretty Crooked by Elisa Ludwig

2012-02-25T08:00:00.009-05:00

Published: March 2012

Publisher: Katherine Tegan Books

Pages: 368

Copy Provided by: NetGalley

Summary: Goodreads

Summary:

Willa’s secret plan seems all too simple: take from the rich kids at Valley Prep and give to the poor ones.

Yet Willa’s turn as Robin Hood at her ultra-exclusive high school is anything but. Bilking her “friends”—known to everyone as the Glitterati—without them suspecting a thing is far from easy. Learning how to pick pockets and break into lockers is as difficult as she’d thought it’d be. Delivering care packages to the scholarship girls, who are ostracized just for being from the “wrong” side of town, is way more fun than she’d expected.

The complication Willa didn’t expect, though, is Aidan Murphy, Valley Prep’s most notorious (and gorgeous) ace-degenerate. His mere existence is distracting Willa from what matters most to her: evening the social playing field between the haves and have-nots. There’s no time for crushes and flirting with boys, especially conceited and obnoxious trust-funders like Aidan.

But when the cops start investigating the string of thefts at Valley Prep and the Glitterati begin to seek revenge, could Aidan wind up being the person that Willa trusts most?

Review:

I wasn't sure what to expect from this title when I downloaded it from NetGalley. It looked fun! When I first started reading, I had flashbacks of Mean Girls meets Shopaholic meets Robin Hood. It seemed like a pre-teen novel at the start but as the story progressed, I'd amp up the rating to be suitable for teens. The author has a clear, casual writing tone with lots of sarcasm (which I love). By page 50 I was laughing out loud.

Surprisingly, I became wrapped up in what appeared to be a fairly simple plot as it became more complicated and complex. Pretty Crooked had more depth than I expected and I am interested to see what book #2 has in store. Does Willa connect with Aiden? What is her Mom trying to hide from her? Will her good intentions go awry?

Give this one a go for something a little lighter, have some fun, laugh a little and remember what its like to try to make the "right" decisions in life.

Due to the changes with Google Follower, we are now asking all new, and returning, followers to use Linky Follower in the right hand column of our page. Google Follower Connect will be discontinued at the end of February. Thanks

Feature and Follow Friday - February 24th

2012-02-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

Q: Activity!!! Take a picture or describe where you love to read the most...

Where do I like to read the most? Great question, but I'm not sure how to answer. Basically I like to read most wherever I happen to be reading at the time - as long as the chair is comfortable and the book is good. A bit of a cop-out I guess, but it's the enjoyment of reading itself that matters to me and not where I happen to be physically. I do like to have a cup of tea beside me when I read though.

Switched by Amanda Hocking

2012-02-23T08:00:00.000-05:00

Published: Jan 2012

Publisher: St Martin's Griffin

Pages: 293

Copy: Purchased

Summary: Goodreads

When Wendy Everly was six-years-old, her mother was convinced she was a monster and tried to kill her. It isn't until eleven years later that Wendy discovers her mother might have been right. With the help of Finn Holmes, Wendy finds herself in a world she never knew existed - a world both beautiful and frightening, and Wendy's not sure she wants to be a part of it.

At the time I was reading Switched I thought it was ok, nothing too special, but a decent read. Then I sat down this morning, only one week later, to write my review and I couldn't remember anything about the story. Yes I did remember it was about trolls, or Trylle as they are referred to in the novel, but that was about it.

Now, as I looked at the book and flipped through it, things came back to me, but wow - only one week later and the only reason I remembered the main protagonists name was because I had already added the blurb a while ago at the top of the page. Not good, right?

There has been a lot of very positive feed-back about Switched, and the premise is different, but for me I'm afraid it was just ho-hum. I enjoyed it while I was reading it, but it just didn't stand out in any way at all for me. There's nothing bad about it, it just was not memorable. I feel a bit sad about that. I was hoping for more - what I don't know, just more. I know I won't buy the 2nd and 3rd books in the series. I might read them if we get them at the library, but I won't buy them. Sorry Switched, but I'm just not that into you.

PS - on a totally irrelevant side note, I do love the cover!

Due to the changes with Google Follower, we are now asking all new, and returning, followers to use Linky Follower in the right hand column of our page. Google Follower Connect will be discontinued at the end of February. Thanks

Waiting on Wednesday - Pandemonium by Lauren Oliver

2012-02-22T08:00:00.000-05:00

Pandemonium is book #2 in the Delirium series. I have Delirium in my TBR bookpile and I LOVED Before I Fall. I had the opportunity to communicate with Lauren just after I read Before I Fall. She is such a wonderful author, a real credit to her craft. I'll be reading this title shortly just as soon as I catch up my pile!

Fantastic Fairytales - Illusions by Aprilynne Pike

2012-02-21T08:00:00.006-05:00

Published: May 2011

Publisher: Harper Collins

Pages: 375

Copy Provided by: Borrowed

Summary: Goodreads

Summary:

Laurel hasn't seen Tamani since she begged him to let her go last year. Though her heart still aches, Laurel is confident that David was the right choice.

But just as life is returning to normal, Laurel discovers that a hidden enemy lies in wait. Once again, Laurel must turn to Tamani to protect and guide her, for the danger that now threatens Avalon is one that no faerie thought would ever be possible. And for the first time, Laurel cannot be sure that her side will prevail.

Review:

I really enjoy this series and I'm not sure what it is. I find that so many titles these days (like movies) place more emphasis on sex, violence and language. Sometimes these aspects of books and film overshadow the real plotline. Aprilynne Pike does a great job of creating a fairly clean teen read. There is no language and overall the story is interesting and perfect for a younger teen audience, especially those who are just starting to notice the opposite sex.

For those of you who have not already read Book 1 and 2, we are back to the complicated love triangle. However, to throw a bit more interest into the mix, Ms. Pike has added another player. Yuki is a foreign exchange student but there is something odd about her and Laurel and her friends must try to figure out what it is. Is she really as innocent as she seems to be or is it all an illusion?

Illusions was an enjoyable read and it picked up quickly at the end of the book. I would have liked more background information about the different abilities of each seasonal fairy as I could not remember the details from past titles. Tamani totally took centre stage for me this time around. Previously, I had been partial to David as being a good choice for Laurel but who could resist the confidence of a guy who says things like this -

Pg 51
"I just don't want to cozy up to the guy whose girl have every intention of stealing..."
- Tamani

Cocky, yes. Also ballsy but not quite jerk-like. At least he's honest...

I had originally thought this would be a trilogy but I'm so glad it wasn't. Looking forward to book 4, Ms. Pike!

Curlypow here - I know this isn't exactly a fairy tale, but it is partially about faerie, so I figured that would count for this month. Hope you don't mind.

In my Mailbox February 20th

2012-02-20T08:00:00.007-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren in which bloggers post about the books they have received for the week. Books may be won, taken out from the library or bought from a store.

Ok, so I (Christinabean) did something that I don't normally do and I'm going to add a few independent author titles to my TBR pile. Here they are -

I'm going to try some new genres this year and expand my knowledge and diversify some of my reading material. Books for boys, more fairytale retellings, a little more fantasy and sci-fi + historical here I come!!

What's in your mailbox?

Due to the changes with Google Follower, we are now asking all new followers to use Linky Follower in the right hand column of our page. Google Follower Connect will be discontinued at the end of February. Thanks!

Someone Else's Life by Katie Dale

2012-02-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

Published: February 14th, 2012

Publisher: Doubleday Canada

ecopy: Courtesy of Netgalley and Publisher

Summary: Goodreads

When seventeen-year-old Rosie’s mother, Trudie, dies from Huntington’s Disease, her pain is intensified by the knowledge that she has a fifty-per-cent chance of inheriting the crippling disease herself. Only when she tells her mum’s best friend, ‘Aunt Sarah’ that she is going to test for the disease does Sarah, a midwife, reveal that Trudie was not her biological mother after all... Devastated, Rosie decides to trace her real mother, hitching along on her ex-boyfriend’s GAP year to follow her to Los Angeles. But all does not go to plan, and as Rosie discovers yet more of her family's deeply-buried secrets and lies, she is left with an agonising decision of her own - one which will be the most heart-breaking and far-reaching of all...

This was an interesting read about actions and consequences, that unfortunately fell a little flat for me. The premise behind the story is sound - babies switched at birth - but I was never able to fully connect with the characters. The two girls, Rosie and Holly were to my mind selfish and thoughtless. Both of them seemed to leap to conclusions and act irresponsibly and without thought. At one point they seemed like smudged carbon copies of each other. Neither seemed to appreciate what they had and both seemed to want more. I understand that their situations were difficult, but a little more thought and a little less immediate action would have worked better for me. They seemed to reject family that had stood by them for years in order to pursue new dreams with hopes of immediate fullfillment.

Another false note for me were Josh and Andy. I'm sorry, but they were both too good to be true. I am sure that there are such wonderful men out there, but for them both to be so forgiving and accepting just didn't ring true for me. Jack, well, no 1 father of the year award, but without giving away a major spoiler, I just can't see it.

Still I don't want to appear totally negative. I can totally appreciate the drama and romance in Someone Else's Life and I am absolutely certain that it will gain a huge following, especially for Jodi Picoult fans (as has been mentioned by many) and others of her ilk. There is enough angst and trauma for most fans, unfortunately, just a little too much for me. Sorry, Ms. Dale, but Someone Else's Life was just not for me.

Revealing Eden (Save the Pearls 1) by Victoria Foyt

2012-02-18T08:00:00.000-05:00

Published: Jan 10th, 2012

Publisher: Sand Dollar Press

Pages: 321

ecopy: Courtesy of Netgalley and publisher

Summary: Goodreads

Eden Newman must mate before her 18th birthday in six months or she'll be left outside to die in a burning world. But who will pick up her mate-option when she's cursed with white skin and a tragically low mate-rate of 15%? In a post-apocalyptic, totalitarian, underground world where class and beauty are defined by resistance to an overheated environment, Eden's coloring brands her as a member of the lowest class, a weak and ugly Pearl. If only she can mate with a dark-skinned Coal from the ruling class, she'll be safe. Just maybe one Coal sees the Real Eden and will be her salvation her co-worker Jamal has begun secretly dating her. But when Eden unwittingly compromises her father's secret biological experiment, she finds herself in the eye of a storm and thrown into the last area of rainforest, a strange and dangerous land. Eden must fight to save her father, who may be humanity's last hope, while standing up to a powerful beast-man she believes is her enemy, despite her overwhelming attraction. Eden must change to survive but only if she can redefine her ideas of beauty and of love, along with a little help from her "adopted aunt" Emily Dickinson.

This has been a very hard review to write. I enjoyed Revealing Eden, but I'm not entirely sure that I understood it! I've been trying to come up with a description for it and the best I can do is a futuristic, dystopian Beauty and the Beast. The world has obviously suffered some kind of event, but I don't remember any kind of explanation as to why it is too hot for anyone other than dark-skinned coals to go outside. Perhaps that's because my reading of this book was a little disjointed. I couldn't seem to find the time to sit down for any great length of time, and kept reading in 10 minute chunks.

Eden seems to be a little conflicted and she keeps talking about not being understood and no-one seeing the 'real' Eden, but I'm not sure I ever saw the real her either. She is a victim of deceit, which I can't go into without giving spoilers, her life is ruled by the fact that she needs to find a 'mate' before her 18th birthday, but she seemed to be suffering from tunnel vision in this respect. Ignoring the light- skinned pearls and focusing on the coals. Wouldn't it be better to find any mate, rather than no mate at all. Eden's father is a very clever geneticist and he is working on a 'cure' for humanity - by turning them into beasts? Confusing. Ronson Bramford - well he both fascinated and infuriated me. In some respects he was a controlling ass and in others an intriguing genius. I was definitely conflicted about him.

There is fair bit of tension throughout the book and I did enjoy Ms Foyt's writing style . I didn't once consider not finishing the book, but I have a lot of questions. What I'd really like to do is sit down and talk to someone else who has read this and see what they think - which in the end is a good thing, right. Any book that can generate discussion has succeeded. Will I read the sequel - probably yes, because I just don't know where Ms Foyt plans on going and I'm curious. I'd really like to know what others thought of this one.

Check out the website here http://www.savethepearls.com/ and the youtube channel http://www.youtube.com/user/savethepearls

Feature and Follow Friday - February 17th

2012-02-17T08:00:00.015-05:00

Q: BeefcakeandBabes Asks: I like unique names for characters and am looking forward to coming up with some when I start writing. What’s the most unique character name you’ve come across?

The first name that comes to mind right now is Tamani from the Spells series by Aprilynne Pike. It just kind of rolls off your tongue. Kinda pretty for a boy fairy, don't you think?

Curlypow here - I'm actually quite fond of Karou and Akiva from Daughter of Smoke and Bone. They are different without being cheesy

Google Followers! Please switch!

2012-02-16T16:59:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone, Christinabean here.

As some of you may already know, Google Friend Connect will disappear as of March 1, 2012. That means that a ton of you are going to disappear as our followers. :( Never fear though, Brett Riggs (you're my hero) has designed a widget for bloggers to use to replace this function. Please please please look over to the right side of your screen, check out the Linky Followers widget and click on "Follow Me" to continue following the Paperback Princesses. I thank you and Curlypow will too once she realizes what GFC is doing. :P

Bloggingly yours,

Christinabean

p.s.
If you have a blog yourself and are looking to use this linky tool as well, you can find it here. Please leave us a comment here and let us know if its useful to you as well!

Guest Post from Pither - Stork by Wendy Delsol

2012-02-16T08:00:00.001-05:00

Publisher:Candlewick Press

Pages: 357

Copy: Library

Summary: Goodreads

Family secrets. Lost memories. And the arrival of an ancient magical ability that will reveal everything.

Sixteen-year-old Katla LeBlanc has just moved from Los Angeles to Minnesota. As if it weren’t enough that her trendy fashion sense draws stares, Katla soon finds out that she’s a Stork, a member of a mysterious order of women tasked with a very unique duty. But Katla’s biggest challenge may be finding her flock at a new school. Between being ignored by Wade, the arrogant jock she stupidly fooled around with, and constantly arguing with gorgeous farm boy and editor-in-chief Jack, Katla is relieved when her assignment as the school paper’s fashion columnist brings with it some much-needed friendship. But as Homecoming approaches, Katla uncovers a shocking secret about her past — a secret that binds her fate to Jack’s in a way neither could have ever anticipated. With a nod to Hans Christian Andersen and inspired by Norse lore, Wendy Delsol’s debut novel introduces a hip and witty heroine who finds herself tail-feathers deep in small-town life.

I picked up Stork by Wendy Delsol because these fine Paperback Princesses recommended it. The cover is gorgeous with frost and snow, and yes, I admit, I do indeed judge. The plot intrigued me, the whole retelling of mythology. Greek and Roman is pretty popular (I’m looking right at you, Percy Jackson), but Norse isn’t all that common.

The world of Stork is based in wintry Minnesota, in a town where everyone is trotting around with an Icelandic last name and strong ties to their Viking ancestors from hundreds of years ago. Katla is a recent transplant from California, living with her divorced mother and starting a new school. Fashion-loving, Starbucks-drinking teenage girl plunked down into a Minnesota small town; you can guess how enthusiastic she is about all this.

I originally strongly disliked Katla. She judges quite often based on appearance (I know, I know, hypocrytical of me considering that cover crack up there), considering if people are worth being her friend or not based on their looks and fashion sense. There’s also the Jack factor, the hot aloof brooder at her school who really fills out his John Deere cap, if you know what I mean. Katla becomes totally absorbed in him, going from somewhat snarky high-schooler to “Oh my God, my life resolves around YOU now.”

However, Delsol does pull it back. Katla matures a great deal into her powers, and yes, does learn the true meaning of friendship and all that good stuff. I liked the mystery around Jack, trying to figure out just what he was about and trying to peek behind his angsty demeanor. By the end of the book I was quite wrapped up in the story and flipping pages quickly to find out what happens. The action is good and plot well-paced, though a bit predictable at times. I can’t say too much without dropping some major spoilers, but I loved the big reveal between Jack and Katla.

I think my favourite part was the whole Stork thing. Katla’s destiny revolves around being a Stork, and part of the Icelanic Stork Society that’s populated almost solely by little old ladies. They all have bird names (Katla’s turns out to be Robin), and help decide the fate of newborns. Certain souls (“essences”) need extra guidance, and must be assisted towards the most suitable among three potential mothers (“vessels”). Sounds a bit weird I know, but in Delsol’s hands it becomes a fascinating thing, and helps shape Katla’s maturity.

I’d recommend this to Twilight fans for the Jack/Katla side of things, Lesley Livingston and Kelley Armstrong readers for the touch of paranormal, and fashionistas with things for smoky brooders.

Waiting on Wednesday - Arcadia Awakens by Kai Meyer

2012-02-15T08:00:00.000-05:00

To Rosa Alcantara, the exotic world of Sicily, with its network of Mafia families and its reputation for murder and intrigue, is just that—exotic and wholly unknown. But when her life in Brooklyn begins to fall apart, she must travel there, to her family’s ancestral home, where centuries of family secrets await her.

Once there, Rosa falls head over heels for Alessandro Carnevare, the son of a Sicilian Mafia family, whose handsome looks and savage grace both fascinate and unsettle her. But their families are sworn enemies, and her aunt and sister believe Alessandro is only using Rosa to infiltrate the Alcantara clan. And when Rosa encounters a tiger one night—a tiger with very familiar eyes—she can no longer deny that neither the Carnevares nor the Alcantaras are what they seem.

Hidden caves, dangerous beasts roaming the hills, and a history of familial bloodlust mean that Rosa can’t trust anyone. Torn between loyalty to her family and love for their mortal enemy, Rosa must make the hardest decision of her life: stay in Sicily with her new love…or run as far and as fast as she can.

I've enjoyed several of Kai Meyer's books and I'm really looking forward to this one.

Let's Hear It For the Boys - Variant by Robison Wells

2012-02-14T08:05:00.032-05:00

Published: October 2011

Publisher:

Running Time:

Audio copy: Overdrive

Summary: Goodreads

Benson Fisher thought that a scholarship to Maxfield Academy would be the ticket out of his dead-end life.

He was wrong.

Now he’s trapped in a school that’s surrounded by a razor-wire fence. A school where video cameras monitor his every move. Where there are no adults. Where the kids have split into groups in order to survive.

Where breaking the rules equals death.

But when Benson stumbles upon the school’s real secret, he realizes that playing by the rules could spell a fate worse than death, and that escape—his only real hope for survival—may be impossible.

Variant, starts out as a fairly regular boarding school story, but within a very few pages, the reader realises that something is very wrong. It was interesting for me to see how the 'herd mentality' surfaces - how we accept things at face value and don't question as long as we are comfortable.

All it takes is Benson to question the morality behind the school and the problems start. Natural leaders surface and finally people act together and try to escape. I loved the big question that no-one seemed to be able to answer as to why the school was set up in the first place. There is a major twist in the story, that ratchets up the tension as the story progresses which was very well done. Then just as you think everything is going to be ok, there is an OMG ending that made me want to scream. Perhaps it was because I was listening, rather than reading, but I certainly was surprised where the story ended.

This was a great audio version of a book that I thoroughly enjoyed and I am looking forward to seeing where Mr. Wells takes the story. This would also be a good title for those who enjoyed Maze Runner or Gone, or Lord of the Flies (yes I know there has to be someone out there who enjoyed that book, besides me).

In My Mailbox February 13th

2012-02-13T08:00:00.000-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren in which bloggers post about the books they have received for the week. Books may be won, taken out from the library or bought from a store

When I got this book at work the other day, I looked at it and had absolutely no recollection of ordering it. However, having read the blurb I am now looking forward to it. Not sure how I missed it when it came out in July 2010?

Then today I got all of these:

.So I know that technically you can never have too much of a good thing, but all of these at once and only for 3 weeks? I need help. Which one would you read first?

Explosive Eightteen by Janet Evanovich

2012-02-12T08:00:00.000-05:00

Published: November 2012

Publisher: Bantam

Pages: 305

Copy: Library

Summary: Goodreads

Bounty hunter Stephanie Plum’s life is set to blow sky high when international murder hits dangerously close to home, in this dynamite novel by Janet Evanovich.

Before Stephanie can even step foot off Flight 127 from Hawaii to Newark, she’s knee deep in trouble. Her dream vacation turned into a nightmare, she’s flying back to New Jersey solo, and someone who sounds like Sasquatch is snoring in row 22. Worse still, her seatmate never returned to the plane after the L.A. layover. Now he’s dead, in a garbage can, waiting for curbside pickup. His killer could be anyone. The FBI, the fake FBI, and guns-for-hire are all looking for a photograph the dead man was supposed to be carrying.

Only one other person has seen the missing photograph—Stephanie Plum. Now she’s the target, and she doesn’t intend to end up in a garbage can. With the help of an FBI sketch artist Stephanie re-creates the person in the photo. Unfortunately the first sketch turns out to look like Tom Cruise, and the second sketch like Ashton Kutcher. Until Stephanie can improve her descriptive skills, she’ll need to watch her back.

Over at the Bail Bonds Agency it’s business as usual—until the bonds bus serving as Vinnie’s temporary HQ goes up in smoke, Stephanie’s wheelman, Lula, falls in love with their “largest” FTA yet, lifetime arch nemesis Joyce Barnhardt moves into Stephanie’s apartment, and everyone wants to know what happened in Hawaii?!

More of the usual fun and hijinx that is Stephanie Plum. Explosive Eighteen was a little different this time around because of the flash-backs to the Hawaii situation, but other than that, it really was just more of the same fun and games.

I've been reading about Stephanie Plum since the first story, One for the Money, came out in 1994. This series has become one of my go-to series for when I need a quick book to throw into my bag, or I'm not feeling well and I don't want to think too hard. The plots are a little formulaic - something always blows up and at least one FTA manages to escape from Stephanie and Lula, but they are always good for a laugh and I look forward to each new episode. This time I found myself thinking, come on Stephanie, make a choice - Ranger or Morelli. I mean let's face it, we all know she's going to choose Morelli in the end (don't we?), but after keeping him hanging on for so long it would kind of serve her right if he told her to get lost. Personally I'd live dangerously and go for Ranger, but that's just me :)

Is all this confusing to those of you who have not read the series so far. Sorry about that. Explosive Eighteen can be read as a stand-alone, but once you've done so, go back and read the others and see how much you've been missing. Do I think the series should be drawing to a close - absolutely, I'm thinking 20 would be a nice round number. Will I continue to read them if Ms Evanovich writes another 10 - you betcha!

A quick fun read that's suitable for anyone from 15 to 85.

I'm sure many of you will recognise the title One for the Money from the new Katherine Heigl movie that came out this weekend. Were the characters right? Depends on who you ask. Jason O'Mara grew on me as Morelli, but Daniel Sunjata just didn't cut it as Ranger and he talked to much, Babe! Sherri Shepherd was too short for Lula, but the attitude was right, and Katherine Heigl was too tall and slim for Stephanie, but she too got the attitude. I suspect though that fans of the books will watch it anyway, all the while moaning and groaning about its flaws.(Prime example here!) Was it fun - yes, was it Oscar material - never. Is it worth seeing, sure on half-price Tuesday.

Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor

2012-02-11T08:00:00.001-05:00

Published:September 2011
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company
Pages: 418
Copy: Library
Summary: Goodreads

Around the world, black handprints are appearing on doorways, scorched there by winged strangers who have crept through a slit in the sky.

In a dark and dusty shop, a devil's supply of human teeth grown dangerously low.

And in the tangled lanes of Prague, a young art student is about to be caught up in a brutal otherwordly war.

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?

Daughter of Smoke and Bone has had a lot of positive feedback, so much so that I found myself thinking, OK, it can't possibly be that good, right? Wrong! It really is that good, in fact it's better!
Ms Taylor writes so lyrically and with such feeling that time just flies away while you are reading.
'As she walked, clock towers across Prague started argueing midnight, and the long, fraught Monday came at last to a close' (p56)
The two main protagonists, Karou and Akiva fit together - there's just something about them that seems right.
'Only for a split second did his mask slip, but Karou saw some urgent pathos surface, a wave of feeling that softened his rigid and ridiculously perfect features.' (p97)
It is very hard to pigeonhole Daughter of Smoke and Bone. It's not paranormal in the regular sense of the word. alternate universe - maybe, fantasy - possibly, romantic - definitely, but, however you define it, it is a beautiful read. Everything else has already been said about it, and said well, so I'll just say, give yourself a treat and try Daughter of Smoke and Bone. You may be surprised, as I was, but I doubt you'll be disappointed.

Feature and Follow Friday February 10th

2012-02-10T08:00:00.007-05:00

Q: What would your prefer: reading your favorite book over and over again until you got sick of it OR reading 100s of mediocre books? And why?

Definitely reading my fav book over and over again. Why? Because its my favourite book and I'm a bit obsessive like that... :) Besides, I'd like to be able to quote my favourite passages word for word the same way some people do with movies. Hey, we all need new skills.

- Christinabean

I've got to say, I agree with Christinabean here. I'd just change it to the plural. I don't have one favourite book, I have several, and as long as I had those, I'd be happy. Re-reading an old favourite book is like meeting an old friend for coffee. Within a few minutes you feel like you've come home. It's one of the best feelings in the world.

- Curlypow

Guest Post from Special K: Crossed by Ally Condie

2012-02-09T08:00:00.001-05:00

Published: November 1, 2011
Publisher: Dutton Juvenile
Pages: 367
Copy: Library
Summary: GoodReads

In search of a future that may not exist and faced with the decision of who to share it with, Cassia journeys to the Outer Provinces in pursuit of Ky - taken by the Society to his certain death - only to find that he has escaped, leaving a series of clues in his wake.

Cassia's quest leads her to question much of what she holds dear, even as she finds glimmers of a different life across the border. But as Cassia nears resolve and certainty about her future with Ky, an invitation for rebellion, an unexpected betrayal, and a surprise visit from Xander - who may hold the key to the uprising and, still, to Cassia's heart - change the game once again. Nothing is as expected on the edge of Society, where crosses and double crosses make the path more twisted than ever.

Crossed fell into that “Book Two” hole - it’s a way to deliver information we need for the series, and how we get from the exciting beginnings in Book One all the way over to the roll up to the big finale of Book Three (or Four or Five...). Ms. Condie still gives us a stab at a story, and she introduces some interesting characters while we’re on that journey - but that’s really what this book is, a journey.
We left Cassia in Matched as she set out to find Ky - which got my hopes up that this would be a Two Towers (cheer for me, LOTR fans!)-esque epic journey to get to the final destination/battle. And while it makes a valiant effort, it fell a little flat for me.

It rolls in nicely after the first book. The writing is well done. The setting is a little lack lustre, but I don’t actually fault the author for that, since it’s appropriate. But, that’s all it really is - nice. However, Crossed has one redeeming quality.

Cassia experiences some real growth at the end of the novel. We finally see her moving forward (in character development...clearly she’s been moving forward in a physical place sense), and we are definitely left with some interesting questions at the end. We’re kept guessing, and waiting, and we won’t know until the next instalment where this is going. Cassia begins to emerge as a strong female role, while still playing to the love-triangle that we learn might be more than a love-triangle.

Overall, middle of the road for Crossed. But we were bound to read it because Matched was great, and it does an awesome job setting up for Matched #3.

A big thank you from Christinabean and myself to Special K for stepping into the breach these last few weeks and giving us some amazing reviews. While I still want to read all the titles, I think I can put them a little further back on my TBR list for now.

Waiting on Wednesday - Forgiven by Jana Oliver

2012-02-08T08:00:00.000-05:00

Jana Oliver's third spellbinding Demon Trappers novel - following The Demon Trapper's Daughter and Soul Thief - brings all new thrills, as Riley Blackthorne takes on demons, love... and the future of the human race.

The days are growing darker for 17-year-old demon trapper Riley Blackthorne. With her father’s reanimated body back safely, Beck barely speaking to her because of a certain hunky Fallen angel, and a freshly-made deal with Lucifer, she has enough on her hands to last a normal teenage lifetime. Though she bargained with Heaven to save his life, her ex-boyfriend Simon has told the Vatican’s Demon Hunters that she’s working with Hell. So now she’s in hiding, at the top of everyone’s most-wanted list.

But it’s becoming clear that this is bigger than Riley, and rapidly getting out of control: something sinister is happening in Atlanta… or someone. The demons are working together for the first time ever and refusing to die, putting civilians in harm’s way. Riley thinks she might know who’s behind it all, but who’s going to believe her? Caught between her bargain with Heaven and her promise to Lucifer, Riley fears the final war is coming – and it may be closer than anyone thinks…

In Case You Missed It - The Quickening by Fiona McIntosh

2012-02-07T08:00:00.000-05:00

For the sake of an imperiled kingdom, the line between "traitor" and "savior" must blur . . . and vanish."
Though barely a teenager, Wyl Thirsk must now assume the role he has been destined for since birth: commander of the Morgravian army -- an awesome responsibility that calls him to the royal palace of the crown prince Celimus. Already a cruel despot who delights in the suffering of others, Celimus enjoys forcing his new general to witness his depraved "entertainments." But a kindness to a condemned witch in her final, agonizing hours earns young Thirsk a miraculous bequest, while inflaming the wrath of his liege lord.
With war looming in the north, Wyl must obey Celimus's treacherous dictates and undertake a suicidal journey to an enemy court -- armed with a mysterious power that could prove both boon and curse. For unless he accepts Myrren's gift, it will surely destroy him . . . and the land he must defend.

The fate of nations hangs
in precarious balance
as a young soldier urgently
seeks answers to a
sinister blessing . . .
General Wyl Thirsk of Morgravia has seen his best friend slain, his sister tortured, and his mentor consigned to a certain death -- all at the sadistic whim of his sovereign, King Celimus. Now Celimus hungrily eyes the neighboring realm, Briavel, and its inexperienced Queen Valentyna, pressuring her into a doomed political marriage -- and thereby forcing Wyl's hand toward confrontation and treason, for only he can save the woman he loves from her hideous fate.
But destiny will send Wyl far from the evil machinations of the despicable king. And as war threatens from the north, where the hated King of the Barbarians plots against the south, Wyl must find the mysterious bestower of Myrren's gift in a bid to control the curse that has thrown his life into chaos . . . and is intricately and terrifyingly woven into the future of three realms.

General Wyl Thirsk of Morgravia has died many times . . .
But thanks to the miraculous gift bestowed upon him by the slain witch Myrren, Wyl lives on--though greatly altered and unrecognizable. Only by assuming Morgravia's throne will he be freed from the dark spell that has both cursed and sustained him.
But Wyl's time is running out. His beloved Queen Valentyna will soon be wed to his most hated enemy, the savage despot King Celimus--and despite the impending nuptials, war between their nations looms ominously, while the dire threat from the Mountain Kingdom grows stronger by the day. Trapped in a body that is not his own, Wyl must walk his most dangerous path yet--straight into the brutal clutches of his sadistic foe‚ in a last, desperate attempt to save his land, his love, his life . . . and his soul.

The first book in The Quickening trilogy came out in 2003, which isn't really that long ago, but I suspect that most of our readers won't be aware of it. Fiona McIntosh was born in England and now lives in Australia, so she is not a huge name over here in North America, which is a great pity, because she is an absolutely amazing writer. The trilogy was not marketed as YA, but the main protagonists are teenagers and the story is wonderful. This is a fantasy with enough twists and turns to satisfy anyone, a romance that will curl your toes and a WTF, OMG and all those other acronyms, moment at the end of book one that will leave you with your mouth hanging open. I can't praise this trilogy enough. If you can find it, read it. You won't be disappointed.

In My Mailbox - February 6th

2012-02-06T08:00:00.000-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren in which bloggers post about the books they have received for the week. Books may be won, taken out from the library or bought from a store.

Nastasya has lived for hundreds of years, but for some reason, life never seems to get any better. She left her spoiled, rich girl life to find peace at River's Edge, a safe haven for wayward immortals. There, she learned to embrace River's Edge, despite some drama involving the sexy Reyn, who she wants but won't allow herself to have. But just as she's getting comfortable, her family's ties to dark magick force her to leave.

She falls back into her old, hard partying ways, but will her decision lead her into the hands of a dark immortal? Or will it be her first step to embracing the darkness within her.

It's been a bit of a slow week, which is not a bad thing really. It might give me time to get caught up!

The Always War by Margaret Peterson Haddix

2012-02-05T08:00:00.000-05:00

Published: November 2011

Publisher: Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers

Pages: 210

copy: Library

Summary: Goodreads

In a war-torn future United States, fifteen-year-old Tessa, her childhood friend Gideon, now a traumatized military hero, and Dek, a streetwise orphan, enter enemy territory and discover the shocking truth about a war that began more than seventy-five years earlier.

At just over 200 pages The Always War is a very quick read with the story moving at a fast pace. A little thin on details for me, but there were one or two surprises that I didn't see coming.\

It was interesting to see how Tessa, Gideon and Dek were manipulated and how they arrived at their own conclusions - or so they think. For me, the message in this book was that it is ok to ask questions. We don't always have to follow along lilke sheep just because something has always been done a certain way.

The world these characters live in seemed eerily plausible and frighteningly possible - a sentient coomputer that stays true to its programming - not so impobable these days, is it? Not quite my usual genre, but an entertaining novel all the same. The Always War is a perfect dystopian novel for younger teens or reluctant readers.

Overbite by Meg Cabot

2012-02-04T08:00:00.002-05:00

Published: July 2011

Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

Pages: 278

Copy Provided by: Library

Summary: Goodreads

Summary:

Meena Harper has a special gift, but it's only now that anyone's ever appreciated it. The Palatine Guard — a powerful secret demon-hunting unit of the Vatican — has hired her to work at their new branch in Lower Manhattan. With Meena's ability to predict how everyone she meets will die, the Palatine finally has a chance against the undead.

Sure, her ex-boyfriend was Lucien Antonescu, son of Dracula, the prince of darkness. But that was before he (and their relationship) went up in flames. Now Meena's sworn off vampires for good ... at least until she can prove her theory that just because they've lost their souls doesn't mean demons have lost the ability to love.

Meena knows convincing her co-workers — including her partner, über-demon-hunter Alaric Wulf — that vampires can be redeemed won't be easy ... especially when a deadly new threat seems to be endangering not just lives of the Palatine, but Meena's friends and family as well.

But Meena isn't the Palatine's only hope. Father Henrique — aka Padre Caliente — New York City's youngest, most charming priest, has also been assigned to the case.

So why doesn't Meena — or Alaric — trust him?

As she begins unraveling the truth, Meena finds her loyalties tested, her true feelings laid bare ... and temptations she never even imagined existed, but finds impossible to resist.

This time, Meena may finally have bitten off more than she can chew.

Review:

Imagine being in love with an undead boyfriend while working for an organization that is trying to destroy him. Once again Meg Cabot delivers a hilarious and outrageous supernatural read. Her story is fun, intriguing, has action and romance. It made me remember that not everything has to be so serious in life... That includes your reading material! If you're looking for something (a little over the top) that is light and fun to read, this is it. If you need something a little more serious and vampire themed, you might want to try re-reading Dracula by Bram Stoker.

One last thing about this book...I did find that it ended rather abruptly and that the ending was not as developed as I was hoping. The book was entertaining but the ending did leave me a little flat...kind of like a good movie whose budget ran short at the end.

Overbite is book #2 in the Insatiable series. I wasn't sure if I was prepared to read it since Book #1 took such a bizarre twist at the end of the story. However, I love Meg Cabot. She's like a girl's best friend when it comes to book writing and whenever I'm in the mood for something fun and less serious, she is in my lighter read book "arsenault" (hee hee). Plus, she has a wicked sense of humor. Start with Insatiable then try Overbite. Be prepared to be entertained for awhile, laugh a little, roll your eyes, enjoy the ridiculousness and stop taking yourself so seriously. You know, it could be worse. Your ex-boyfriend might be "nibbling" your neck the next time you meet up....

Feature and Follow Blog Hop

2012-02-03T18:02:00.000-05:00

Q: Define what characteristics your favorite books share. Do they all have a kickass heroine or is the hot love interest the Alpha Male?

I think for me the book has to be successful at making me suspend disbelief. Does that make sense? I love fantasy, paranormal and Science fiction and it is important that what I'm reading seems not only plausible but possible - ok we'd have to be in an alternate universe ourselves for most of it to be possible, but I want to believe in the worlds and their inhabitants and the actions that occur. Now a hot Alpha Male to move the story along never goes wrong .....

Guest Post from Pither - Scarlet by A C Gaughen

2012-02-02T08:00:00.000-05:00

Published: February 2012

Publisher: Walker Books for Young Readers, imprint of Bloomsbury Children's Books

Pages: 304

Copy: Netgalley and Publisher

Summary: Goodreads

Many readers know the tale of Robin Hood, but they will be swept away by this new version full of action, secrets, and romance.

Posing as one of Robin Hood’s thieves to avoid the wrath of the evil Thief Taker Lord Gisbourne, Scarlet has kept her identity secret from all of Nottinghamshire. Only the Hood and his band know the truth: the agile thief posing as a whip of a boy is actually a fearless young woman with a secret past. Helping the people of Nottingham outwit the corrupt Sheriff of Nottingham could cost Scarlet her life as Gisbourne closes in. It’s only her fierce loyalty to Robin—whose quick smiles and sharp temper have the rare power to unsettle her—that keeps Scarlet going and makes this fight worth dying for

I picked up Scarlet because the legend of Robin Hood has always appealed to me. Yes, even the prancing about in tights version (best movie EVER.) It always feels like you’re going behind the scenes when you read a book based on the figure.

Gaughen’s take on Scarlet is an unusual one, primarily because ‘Will’ Scarlet is in fact a girl. Fleeing from a secret, troubled past, she joined up with Robin “The Hood”of Locksley, Earl of Huntington, in London. The book starts with the ‘Merry Men’ quite early on, Robin’s not long back from the Crusades, and there are only four members of the band: Robin, John Little, Much the miller’s son, and Scarlet the thief. (His character’s always been my favourite—brooding, secretive, the blackened thief with a conscience buried deep… What’s not to love?)

I liked the treatment of Scar’s character. She’s a strong female protagonist, gruff and removed, somewhat aloof. We see glimmers of her battered heart as the book progresses, and I like how she gets all upset when she actually cares about people and the related hurt that can bring. Funnily enough, she battles against low self-esteem quite often, something which adds depth to the character. One of my favourite lines from her is:

“Honest, this were what I liked best about being a thief—even a dirty one at that. Sometimes, if you just had a bit of ichor in your blood, you could walk where no one else could and do things that no one else dared.” (p. 234)

I can’t say very much about the romance in the book without giving away some heavy duty spoilers. Suffice to say, it wasn’t too cloying, a few breathless moments and heavy blushes and whatnot. One thing I didn’t like was the back and forth between John and Robin. I get the fact you’re running around the woods with some pretty studly males, but jeez, just pick one and stop taunting the other!

Robin’s character was another thing I liked, the seeing the young man behind the legend. He’s struggling with the loss of his family and lands, the horrors he saw while on Crusade, and the suffering of the people around him. I think one quote in particular sums him up nicely:

“We do what we do—“ He halted, then stepped one foot closer. “I do what I do because I will always believe that no matter how awful life gets for however many of these people, there is something I can do about it. There is something I will do about it.” (p. 67)

The humour was great, just enough without turning it from a drama to a comedy. Scar makes for a spunky heroine, one that should appeal to Tamora Pierce fans. Little turns of phrase make you smile, and realize that girls just have more to think about when they traipse around in the woods on the run from the law:

“Staying in the darker bits, and watching John and Much, I changed quick into my gown, untwining the muslin that I used to pin my bits back. Couldn’t very well be running for your hide with bits jiggling all over the place, could you?” (p. 87)

Scarlet would be good for reluctant readers, as there’s a lot of action with a minimal amount of description. There’s some violence and cruelty (i.e. a traitor’s mouth being sewn shut, people getting tortured and hurt), but nothing was graphically described. I like Scar as a character, her gruff nature and the loyalty the band holds to Robin. I enjoyed watching her secret past come to light and her relationship with her chosen young man develop. The ending was good, and though it may have been obvious to some, it took me by surprise! Captain Oblivious rides again. Overall a solid, enjoyable read.

NOTE - quotes are taken from an ARC and may change in the final copy

Thanks so much Pither for joining us with this great review. Scarlet was already on my TBR list, and it has been bumped up several noches now.

Waiting on Wednesday - Bewitching by Alex Flinn

2012-02-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we’reeagerly anticipating or books that are in our TBR pile. This week’s “can’t-wait-to-read” selection is

Alex Flinn is one of our favourite authors when it comes to fairytale retellings. I'm really looking forward to Bewitching. Here is Alex Flinn's summary -

Kendra Hilferty, the witch who curses Kyle Kingsbury in Beastly, tells about her immortal existence-how she discovered she was a witch and the various ways she has used her powers to help people throughout the centuries. (Unfortunately her attempts have often backfired.) As it turns out, Kendra has actually had a hand in "Hansel and Gretel," "The Princess and the Pea," and "The Little Mermaid"-but these are not the fairy tales you think you know! Kendra's reminiscences are wrapped around a real-time version of "Cinderella," except the "ugly" stepsister is the good guy. With dark twists, hilarious turns, and unexpected endings, Bewitching is a contemporary read for fairy-tale lovers, fantasy fans, and anyone looking for more.

BTW, if you are in the USA and are interested in winning a copy, Alex is giving away 50 copies on goodreads!

The Taming by Eric Walters and Teresa Toten

2012-01-31T08:00:00.002-05:00

Published: January 24th, 2012

Publisher: Doubleday Canada

Pages: 256

Copy: Courtesy of Netgalley and publisher

Summary: Goodreads

Katie likes to believe she's invisible. It seems much safer than being exposed as she is--shy, poor, awkward. So getting up on stage in the school production of The Taming of the Shrew should be complete torture. But as Katie tells it, something totally unexpected happened when she stepped on stage: "My head exploded. I loved it. Acting hit me like a sucker punch and I loved, loved, loved it! . . . Invisible Katie became visible Katharina."

Evan Cooper is, as they say, another story. He knows just what it takes to get noticed, and he uses every one of the skills he's honed after years of being the new kid. Like tossing the keys to his father's high-end Audi to a kid he's never met, first day of school. "I have insurance for car theft," he explains to a shocked Danny. "And there's a full tank." An abuse of the power that comes with privilege and money? Sure.

But more dangerously, is his romance with Katie another version of the same thing? Or is it the real thing?

I started reading The Taming with absolutely no preconceived notions about it's contents. I knew it was based around 'that Shakespeare guy's' play The Taming of the Shrew, but other than that I had no idea and I was absolutely blown away by it! Walters and Toten have taken a very important social issue (violence and abusive behavior) and have woven it ito an engrossing, wonderful and very moving tale of self discovery.

Told in alternating PoV's it is easy to get right into the heads of the main characters, Evan and Katie. Katie is a mouse - quiet, shy, scared and invisible. She does everything she can to fly under the radar. Evan is her complete opposite in every way - handsome, rich, charismatic, confident, and completely toxic! When Evan sets his sights on Katie, sparks fly.

To avoid spoilers I won't go into details, but the development of these two characters is superb. We get into their heads and see the reasons behind their actions. So much so that it's difficult not to feel sorry for Evan. While it becomes obvious that he is a product of his envirnment, just as Katie is, there is no excuse for his behaviour, or hers for that matter. I became very involved in what was going on and there is such a sense of empowerment at the end that I felt like cheering. Excellent secondary characters, like Travis, Lisa and Josh, round out the story and make it complete.

The Taming is an amazing book that makes its point clearly, without being preachy, and even manages to inject a few snippets from everyone's favourite bard, and from one of his less popular plays no less.

I would highly recommend The Taming for anyone who likes contemporary fiction - and even for those that don't! Canadians, remember this one for ISU time, but read it anyway, just for the experience, you won't regret it. I don't know if it's available as a hard copy in the US right now, but I did notice it as an ebook from Amazon, so fire up your ereaders.

City of Lost Souls news

2012-01-30T08:09:00.002-05:00

Uhhh....this is so embarassing but WHEN did this come out and have I been living under a rock? I've been waiting to see the cover of Book #5 for awhile now and just happened across it while browsing the Amazon.ca today. Looks lovely Ms. Clare. Can't wait to continue with The Mortal Instruments series!!

Practice Cake by Dalya Moon

2012-01-30T08:00:00.017-05:00

Published: October 2011

Pages: 230

ecopy: received for review

Summary: Goodreads

There’s one thing Maddie finds more tempting than red velvet cake: her coworker, Drew. All it takes is one of his sly winks or a playful hip-check by the cooler, and she’s incinerating the cookies. Her boyfriend would not approve.

When a reality TV crew descends upon the bakery, her simple summer job gets even more complicated. Maddie could become the Bakery Network’s next breakout star, if she can handle the heat of being cast as a show villain. Drew has an alternate idea: run away from everything, with him and his sexy tousled hair. She decides to take the leap, but when she finds out Drew’s been hiding a shocking secret, Maddie looks down at her packed suitcase and takes a moment to think. Should she fly off to Australia with a guy she hardly knows, or should she pick up her suitcase and hit him with it?

Chock full of imperfect people behaving badly, Practice Cake is for readers who enjoy a good laugh.

Last year I received a request from Dalya Moon to review her novel Charlie Woodcock is a Minor Niner (review HERE) - it was a wonderful book that I enjoyed very much. So when she contacted me again to try Practice Cake I jumped at the chance. Unfortunately life has a way of stepping in and it has taken several months for me to finally get time so read it, and I am SO glad I did.

Maddie, short for Madeline (like the little cakes) is 18 and has just graduated from high school. She's smart, sassy, funny and determined to buy a VW Bug. I loved her character so much. Ms Moon has a way of writing that captures the essence of her characters. At 18 we really don't know what we want, but if we're lucky we learn from our mistakes, and that is exactly what Maddie does. She's pretty without being gorgeous, she has family problems, but they're not overwhelming. She has a job that isn't glamorous but satisfies her. In fact, she's one of the most real characters I've read in a while. Maddie's interaction with guys is hilarious, and Drew, Hudson and Brian are all prime examples of the male population in its various forms. Maddie's sister Melanie is loving, but has a seriously flawed love life, her boyfriend is an idiot - albeit a handsome one, and her best friend Jaslene gets jealous of her frequently, but they forgive each other, as friends do.

A few of my favourite quotes:

p 15 '"It's like a pair of sandals mated with a snake," I said, eliciting a few chuckles from out captive elevator audience. "And these are their shameful offspring."' (Maddie and Jaslene talking about a pair of open-toed boots)

p16 "That's the thing about jealousy. It's an awful, shameful human emotion, but when it's aimed at you, it's almost a sign you're on the right track. When I started wearing more skirts and shorts instead of jeans, the hateful looks increased, so I shortened my hems even more. Now that I was a high school graduate, how was I supposed to know when I looked hot?'

p17 '"Scouting," I said. I tried to stay cool, but nearly stumbled down the contrete steps, ruining my nice dress with a bloody compound fracture.'

p 32 '"Cute, but I'm in love with him." I pointed to the shelf behind the counter, at the taxidermied squirrel with little black cowboy boots and a tiny pistol. I wondered if that was the fate awaiting the squirrels in the bakery's ceiling crawlspace. The exterminator had said there were four or more. Perhaps they'd be made into little Village People squirrels.

Through all the humour, and there is lots of it, there are some wonderful life lessons to be learned, but the story is never preachy. It pokes fun at life in so many different ways, many of them uniquely Canadian, which I just loved. There's a little bit of underage drinking and some mature situations with some bad language, but none of it is over the top or out of character. Practice Cake is sad, funny, romantic, funny, real and just plain wonderful to read. I loved every witty minute of it and only wish it had been twice as long, so that I could have seen more of these wonderful characters.

I'm always happpy when I find a Canadian author whose work I really enjoy. Thank you Ms Moon for the great read.

Addendum: Dalya's books are available for Kindle on Amazon.com for only $2.99 - at that price you could try them all!

In My Mailbox - January 30th

2012-01-30T08:00:00.016-05:00

I know that Curlypow reviewed this title in December but I have yet to read it and it has been in my TBR list for awhile. Looking forward to something different! What's in your mailbox this week?

The Way We Fall by Megan Crewe

2012-01-29T08:00:00.001-05:00

Published: January 24, 2011

Publisher: Disney, Hyperion

Pages: 304

Copy: Netgalley and Publisher

Summary: Goodreads

It starts with an itch you just can't shake. Then comes a fever and a tickle in your throat. A few days later, you'll be blabbing your secrets and chatting with strangers like they’re old friends. Three more, and the paranoid hallucinations kick in.

And then you're dead.

When a deadly virus begins to sweep through sixteen-year-old Kaelyn’s community, the government quarantines her island—no one can leave, and no one can come back.

Those still healthy must fight for dwindling supplies, or lose all chance of survival. As everything familiar comes crashing down, Kaelyn joins forces with a former rival and discovers a new love in the midst of heartbreak. When the virus starts to rob her of friends and family, she clings to the belief that there must be a way to save the people she holds dearest.

Because how will she go on if there isn't?

Megan Crewe crafts a powerful and gripping exploration of self-preservation, first love, and hope. Poignant and dizzying, this heart-wrenching story of one girl’s bravery and unbeatable spirit will leave readers fervently awaiting the next book in this standout new series.

I was lucky enough to meet Megan Crewe a little while ago at DarkLitFest in Oshawa. I bought her first book Give up the Ghost at that time and really enjoyed it. She had mentioned that she had another book/series in the works, so when I saw The Way We Fall available on Netgalley I knew I just had to give it a shot. I was not disappointed.

Written as a series of letters, or diary entries, addressed to a friend who has left the island, The Way We Fall gives a clear picture of what happens to a small community when tragedy strikes. Kae's first person POV allows us to get inside her head and feel as if we are experiencing things for ourselves. Ms Crewe manages to clearly paint the break-down of society and shows us how some people fall apart in a crisis, and other people shine.

I realise that I read an ARC and that quotes are not final, but this one illustrates how difficult it is to understand people.

'Maybe the gang thought it'd be fun to destroy a few buildings. These are people who'll shoot someone just for being sick, after all. But it seems to me like they're sick too - sick with fear, sick with selfishness. How can anyone do all the things they do without hating themselves for it?' (p243 from ARC)

'And you know what? As long as they keep their bullets and their fires away from the people I care about, that's all reight with me.' (P246 from ARC)

Gav was an interesting character. Someone who appears one way, but is in fact completely the opposite. Just a normal kid who's trying to make a difference any way he can. I think I'd like to meet him in fact.

'I don't know if I would have opened up to him if I hadn't seen how he acted when the town was falling apart. I want to believe that we'd have ended up together no matter what, that our feelings go beyond the awful circumstances that've thrown us together, but it's not like either of us can say for sure.' (p280 from ARC - Kae talking of her feelings about Gav)

Sorry, that last one may be a spoiler, but to me it just illustrates that we can be victims of circumstance, and that we never really know how we will react to people or situations. And sometimes people surprise us.

Ms Crewe has written a believable and very moving story about what might possibly happen to any of us, given todays climate. About finding our inner strength and overcoming adversity. It's scary, in a day to day way, and I really enjoyed it. I look forward to seeing what happens next to Kae and Gav. Highly recommended for everyone, but especially for those who enjoyed Susan Beth Pfeffer's Life As We Knew It.

On a side note, there is a sure-fire way to tell a writer is Canadian, and that's when the characters take their shoes off when they go into someone's house - Canadians eh!

The Merchant's Daughter by Melanie Dickerson

2012-01-28T08:00:00.009-05:00

Published: November 2011

Publisher: Zondervan

Pages: 302

Copy Provided by: NetGalley

Summary: Goodreads

Summary:

An unthinkable danger. An unexpected choice.Annabel, once the daughter of a wealthy merchant, is trapped in indentured servitude to Lord Ranulf, a recluse who is rumored to be both terrifying and beastly. Her circumstances are made even worse by the proximity of Lord Ranulf's bailiff---a revolting man who has made unwelcome advances on Annabel in the past.Believing that life in a nunnery is the best way to escape the escalation of the bailiff's vile behavior and to preserve the faith that sustains her, Annabel is surprised to discover a sense of security and joy in her encounters with Lord Ranulf. As Annabel struggles to confront her feelings, she is involved in a situation that could place Ranulf in grave danger. Ranulf's future, and possibly his heart, may rest in her hands, and Annabel must decide whether to follow the plans she has cherished or the calling God has placed on her heart.

Review:
Its taken me a little time to write this review and I'm not sure why. I enjoyed The Merchant's Daughter but it was not what I was expecting. To be honest, I was expecting a historical romance with a little more emphasis on the "romance". What I didn't realize until about 1/2 through is that The Merchant's Daughter is christian fiction. To those of you who are fans of Ms. Dickerson`s work, please forgive my ignorance. I've worked for a bookstore and recognized the publisher's name as an international Christian media and publishing company. I have seen their name on many bible publications as well as about 85% of the books in the Christian literature section. About 1/2 way through, I noticed the publisher's name and realized why the story wasn`t exactly taking the turns I was expecting.

Annabel was sweet, innocent and strong-willed. She stood up for her beliefs and her sense of character was refreshing. At first I was thinking to myself - is this girl for real - but as the novel progressed, the author built up her role and it was believable. Lord Ranulf was the right counterpart to her innocence and I often found myself comparing them to The Beauty and the Beast.

Trying new genres is always something I`m open to and I`m glad that I read Ms. Dickerson`s title. Stepping out of your regular comfort zone is always a nice challenge once in awhile to appreciate different writing styles. I`m glad I finished this one because I have to admit, it was rather refreshing!

Gleeking out

2012-01-27T08:00:00.004-05:00

OK, so let's take a little time out for another Gleek post. I loved the Yes/No episode. Any others? What do you think that answer will be for the next installment? Anyone have any comments? Found this clip that was so freaking cute, I just had to share.

LOVED THIS.

AND THIS.

Follow Friday

2012-01-27T08:00:00.003-05:00

Q: Which book genre do you avoid at all costs and why?

To be perfectly honest, I don't think there is any genre that I don't read at all. There are one or two that I don't read if I can help it, but when push comes to shove, I'll read anything. I'm not a huge fan of political thrillers and books about Ireland aren't my favourites (not sure why exactly), but really I like to think that if it's a good book it won't matter to me what the genre is. Perhaps that's because I work in libraries for a living, and it's hard to recommend books and genres if you haven't read them yourself. I'm not sure how Christinabean feels, but I think she's much like me on this one.

Guest Post from Special K: Hallowed (Unearthly 2) by Cynthia Hand

2012-01-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

Published: January 17, 2012
Publisher: HaperCollins
Pages: 416
eCopy: NetGalley and Publisher
Summary: GoodReads

For months part-angel Clara Gardner trained to face the raging forest fire from her visions and rescue the alluring and mysterious Christian Prescott from the blaze. But nothing could prepare her for the fateful decisions she would be forced to make that day, or the startling revelation that her purpose—the task she was put on earth to accomplish—is not as straightforward as she thought. Now, torn between her increasingly complicated feelings for Christian and her love for her boyfriend, Tucker, Clara struggles to make sense of what she was supposed to do the day of the fire. And, as she is drawn further into the world of part angels and the growing conflict between White Wings and Black Wings, Clara learns of the terrifying new reality that she must face: Someone close to her will die in a matter of months. With her future uncertain, the only thing Clara knows for sure is that the fire was just the beginning.

Described by Richelle Mead as “utterly captivating,” Unearthly received outstanding reviews, garnered accolades from New York Times bestselling authors, and was named an Indie Next Pick. In this heart-wrenching sequel, Cynthia Hand expertly captures the all-consuming joy of first love—and the agony of loss. This beautifully woven tale will appeal to fans of Lauren Kate, Becca Fitzpatrick, and Aprilynne Pike.

I loved Unearthly - I'm not usually one for the mushy-type supernatural romances, but it grabbed me in a good way, especially with the way it stayed true to the different types of angels, and the play the story took off that.

Hallowed I also enjoyed, but less so than Unearthly. The problem is I really dislike Clara and Tucker this time around: maybe I'm just a horrible person that way, but I'd like to believe that love doesn't make you absolutely stupid, and I also have trouble believing in undying-I’ll-risk-the-wrath-of-God love between high school students. They stop having intelligent motives for their actions and reactions - everything is absolutely centered on the other person in this romance - whether it makes sense or not.

So let me rephrase that - I dislike Tucklara. Clucker. However they mash those celebrity couple names, Tuck and Clara deserve one of their own (I’m going with Clucker). Clucker are fine characters when you let them stand alone without the influence of the other looming overhead - it’s together I have an issue.

Moving on. I loved the lore behind the story, and Ms. Hand does a great job in integrating it into her characters and the plot, and giving it to us in reasonable doses and in believable ways. She also writes beautifully, and I can picture everything in my mind fluidly. But if Clucker continues on, without learning any lessons or getting over their swooning, this series is going to begin to lose my interest.

I’m letting my dislike of this romance overshadow how great the story is - the second book of a series often falls into the rut of trying to tie up loose ends from book one and setting up the epic-ness coming in the next books - they don’t get to have any real story of their own. And while Hallowed definitely plays its role as a ‘Book Two’, it still gives us a story that we want to read and enjoy - and you do.

I’d give it two thumbs up and one big toe. The third book will get two thumbs and two big toes if Clucker suddenly realizes that they can’t stand one another. But that’s just my perspective.

Waiting on Wednesday - Enshadowed by Kelly Creagh

2012-01-25T08:00:00.011-05:00

While Varen remains a prisoner in the dream-world, Isobel is haunted by his memory. He appears to her in her dreams and soon, even in her waking life. But is she just imagining it? Isobel knows she must find a way back to Varen. She makes plans to go to Baltimore. There, she confronts the figure known throughout the world as the Poe Toaster—the same dark man who once appeared to Isobel in her dreams, calling himself “Reynolds.”
Isobel succeeds in interrupting the Toaster’s ritual and, in doing so, discovers a way to return to the dream-world. Soon, she finds herself swept up in a realm which not only holds remnants of Poe’s presence, but has also now taken on the characteristics of Varen’s innermost self. It is a dark world comprised of fear, terror, and anger.
When Isobel once more encounters Varen, she finds him changed. With his mind poisoned by the dream world, he becomes a malevolent force, bent on destroying all—even himself. Now Isobel must face a new adversary, one who also happens to be her greatest love.

I enjoyed Nevermore so much I am really excited to read this one.

Musings by Knitwits - Sweet Shawlettes by Jean Moss

2012-01-24T08:00:00.025-05:00

Published: January 2012

Publisher: Taunton Press Inc

Pages: 144

e-copy: Netgalley and publisher

Summary: Goodreads

Shawlettes are the new socks! These hugely popular, fashion accessories are worn about the shoulders and meant for showing off. They're not only stylish but these budget-friendly pieces make for perfect portable projects. International knitwear designer Jean Moss knows this best and has pulled together a wonderfully creative collection of 25 knitting patterns for shawlettes, mini-wraps cowls, collars, and more. The garments are grouped by style: Country, Couture, Folk, and Vintage, and feature gorgeous yarns of varying content, including wool, silk, cotton, and sustainable fibers. Knitters of all levels will draw inspiration from the gorgeous four-color photos. Additionally helpful are illustrations, charts, schematics and an appendix with instructions for special stitches. Shawlettes can be endlessly reinterpreted in beautiful ways as this book shows. It's one that will capture knitters' imaginations for years to come.

One of Britain's leading designers, JEAN MOSS is known worldwide for her distinctive couture knits. A writer, gardener, and musician living in York, England, she has created her own collections of handknits for more than 25 years. She's also designed for Rowan Yarns and many international fashion houses including Ralph Lauren, Laura Ashley, and Benetton. She hosts knitters' tours and teaches widely in Europe and North America.

'Sweet Shawlettes' is a fun book that has just about everything in the way of an accessory that can be worn aroung the neck or the shoulders. So what makes this different from all the other knitting books that are around right now. Well, this one seems to me to be aimed at younger knitters. There is a little more colour and the designs are just a little more contemporary than those that are usually seen.

There is a wonderful little capelet with a leopard print, a colourful lacy shawl, a vamp boa, and many other intriguing and colourful designs. There are some for the beginner and also some more complex designs for those knitters who enjoy a bit of a challenge. There's even a couple of knitted necklaces for a bit of a change. 'Sweet Shawlettes' would be a wonderful addition to any knitters library.

imm

2012-01-23T08:00:00.031-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren in which bloggers post about the books they have received for the week. Books may be won, taken out from the library or bought from a store.

Once again I have an interesting mix from the library - some a little older this time, but all of them new to the library. Better late than never I guess!

Then I went to visit Chapters for a few minutes and I came out with this one. I just couldn't resist.

So much to read and so little time!

Everneath - Brodi Ashton

2012-01-22T08:00:00.050-05:00

Published: January 2012

Publisher: Harper Collins

Pages: 384

Copy Provided by: NetGalley

Summary: Goodreads

Summary:

Last spring, Nikki Beckett vanished, sucked into an underworld known as the Everneath, where immortals Feed on the emotions of despairing humans. Now she's returned- to her old life, her family, her friends- before being banished back to the underworld... this time forever.

She has six months before the Everneath comes to claim her, six months for good-byes she can't find the words for, six months to find redemption, if it exists.

Nikki longs to spend these months reconnecting with her boyfriend, Jack, the one person she loves more than anything. But there's a problem: Cole, the smoldering immortal who first enticed her to the Everneath, has followed Nikki to the mortal world. And he'll do whatever it takes to bring her back- this time as his queen.

As Nikki's time grows short and her relationships begin slipping from her grasp, she's forced to make the hardest decision of her life: find a way to cheat fate and remain on the Surface with Jack or return to the Everneath and become Cole's...

Review:

I was happy to have the chance to review this before its publication thanks to the good folks at NetGalley. I was drawn to the cover as soon as it started making its appearance in some of the blogs I follow. At first I thought - uh, here we go...another Persephone re-telling...but I REALLY enjoyed this one.

Ms. Ashton hooked me from the beginning. I have to admit that I was kinda crushing on Cole a little bit but Jack did win me over in the end. (I think its the dark, sultry good-looking man candy that sucks me in.) Jack was persistent and constant in his attention to Nikki. He didn't push her but was always there when she was ready to talk. I LOVED that about him. How come all men can't be that way? For me, this story wasn't just a Persephone re-telling. Brodi Ashton added a new and interesting spin to this myth in the form of the "feed". Nikki surviving the feed and the story behind it added another layer of depth to Everneath.

I have to admit that I blazed through the last 50 pages of so because it was so exciting! I know I'm jumping around quite a bit in this review but Everneath was just a winner for me. It was also a nice surprise to see that the author explored other avenues to ensure that the Persephone myth was more complex and unique than other stories. I feel like there is a trend in Greek myths right now....anyone else feeling that way?

Looking forward to the second book in the series! Here's the book trailer -

Angel Burn by L A Weatherly

2012-01-21T08:00:00.004-05:00

Published: May 2011

Publisher: Candlewick Press

Pages: 449

Copy: Library

Summary: Goodreads

Willow knows she's different from other girls, and not just because she loves tinkering with cars. Willow has a gift. She can look into the future and know people's dreams and hopes, their sorrows and regrets, just by touching them. she has no idea where this power comes from. But the assassin, Alex, does. Gorgeous, mysterious Alex knows more about Willow than Willow herself does. He knows that her powers link to dark and dangerous forces and that he's one of the few humans left who can fight them. When Alex finds himself falling in love with his sworn enemy, he discovers that nothing is as it seems, least of all good and evil.

Angel Burn (also published as 'Angel') was one of those books for me that I really enjoyed, but....
I loved the main premise of this one - that the angels are the bad guys. I know this has been done before, but to my mind what made this one different is that basically these angels are soul-sucking aliens. Vampires of the soul really. There is a certain smarmy, slimyness to them that gave me the shivers.

What did I think about Willow and Alex, well as individual characters I really enjoyed them. Willow was strong and confident and handled herself well in a crisis. Alex was every girls dream - gorgeous, dangerous, mysterious - reminded me a bit of Sam and Dean in Supernatural, a bit of an amalgamation of the two of them. My problem arose when Willow and Alex decided they were in love. The lead up worked fine, but afterwards, it was just too much for me. I'm normally a great fan of romance, but something here just didn't sit right, it was all just too much! There are some other characters, but really the story is just that of Willow and Alex, and perhaps thats where I had a problem, not enough about the other characters.

Now having said that, it didn't put me off the story line. Ms Weatherly writes beautifully and it was easy to forget that the book was almost 450 pages long. It read quickly and was exciting and mysterious in parts, and of course very romantic. I like the way the book ended, completely finishing this portion of the story, but leaving things wide open for sequels. Speaking of which, Angel Fire came out in October last year, and it looks as if Angel Fever is coming out October this year. Will I read them, yes definitely. I just hope the romance isn't quite as sweet.

Follow Friday

2012-01-20T08:00:00.013-05:00

Friday Follow is a blog hop that was started by Parajunkee and Alison Can Read. Each week a different question is posted by our hosts and we wil answer! This is a great opportunity for bloggers to network and interact.

This week’s question – What’s the craziest thing you’ve ever done to get your hands on any particular book?

Ok, I'm going to be really boring here. I don't think I've ever done anything really crazy to get my hands on a book - waited for hours and hours to get a book signed, yes. But really, I don't think any book is that important. Don't get me wrong, I love my books, but just not to the extent of craziness. I get enough of that day-to-day. Not sure what Christinabean might have done though?

Christinabean here. OK, so I have to admit that I have done some crazy things to get my hands on a book. The first one off the top of my head is a Twitter contest. I came across a contest for a signed Melissa de la Cruz title and knew I just had to get my hands on it. The person who was the 272nd commenter to their contest tweet would win. So I sat there for the next couple hours tweeting away. Just random comments and then I started getting original and started complimenting the tweeter. In the end, there were two of us tweeting like madwomen and I lucked out. Some people sing for their supper. I tweet for my books.... :)

Guest Post from Special K: The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater

2012-01-19T08:00:00.005-05:00

Published: October 18, 2011
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Pages: 409
Copy: Library
Summary: Goodreads

It happens at the start of every November: the Scorpio Races. Riders attempt to keep hold of their water horses long enough to make it to the finish line. Some riders live. Others die.

At age nineteen, Sean Kendrick is the returning champion. He is a young man of few words, and if he has any fears, he keeps them buried deep, where no one else can see them.

Puck Connolly is different. She never meant to ride in the Scorpio Races. But fate hasn’t given her much of a chance. So she enters the competition — the first girl ever to do so. She is in no way prepared for what is going to happen.

I didn’t expect to like, or even love, this book. But I did. It was beautiful and haunting and heartbreaking, and I'm glad Maggie Stiefvater waited until the story felt right to her and wrote it as it should be (be sure to read her note at the end of the book). It's a departure from the general 'water horse' myth, but it's as real and true (and maybe more so) as any of its tellings in the multiple cultures where water horses make their appearance.

Scorpio Races excels where Shiver/Linger/Forever excelled - the character development (and especially interaction) was stellar, and nothing less than I expected from this writer. But the story grabbed me more than her werewolf tales, and I fell in love with Sean, and rooted for Puck trying to do right without knowing what she’s doing. Most of all I fell in love with Corr, and felt my heart race with Dove. Setting the scene in a small town, where everyone knows everyone, and the interactions are unique but consistent, must have surely been a challenge to write, but Ms. Stiefvater pulls it off flawlessly, and you have distinct reactions to each of the individuals you meet, and how they play off one another.

The setting was also immaculate, set in a place everyone can imagine and in a time outside of an era: it could have been 50 years ago, or 100 years ago. You never can tell. And that only adds to the magic and mystique that literally swirls through the entire novel.

I hate books that make me cry.

But I loved this one.

For a refreshing read, that barely tinges on fantasy, toes the line into historic, and plays with the idea of romance - try The Scorpio Races. It isn’t heavy handed in any of those categories, and is one of the few books I have read that I believe is close to perfection.

Waiting on Wednesday - Everneath by Brodi Ashton

2012-01-18T08:00:00.002-05:00

Summary (by Goodreads)

Ahhh....another remake of the story of Persephone, greek queen of the underworld. I was lucky enough to snag a copy from NetGalley this month. Look for my review shortly!

Fantastic Fairytales - The Pledge by Kimberly Derting

2012-01-17T08:00:00.004-05:00

Published: November 2011

Publisher: Margaret K McElderry Books

Pages: 323

Copy: Library

Summary: Goodreads

In the violent country of Ludania, the classes are strictly divided by the language they speak. The smallest transgression, like looking a member of a higher class in the eye while they are speaking their native tongue, results in immediate execution. Seventeen-year-old Charlaina has always been able to understand the languages of all classes, and she's spent her life trying to hide her secret. The only place she can really be free is the drug-fueled underground clubs where people go to shake off the oppressive rules of the world they live in. It's there that she meets a beautiful and mysterious boy named Max who speaks a language she's never heard before . . . and her secret is almost exposed.

Charlie is intensely attracted to Max, even though she can't be sure where his real loyalties lie. As the emergency drills give way to real crisis and the violence escalates, it becomes clear that Charlie is the key to something much bigger: her country's only chance for freedom from the terrible power of a deadly regime.

Ok, so I realise some of you are thinking why has Curlypow put The Pledge in as one of the Fantastic Fairytales, but really I think that Ms Derting has written a marvellous, modern, dystopian fairy tale with a little bit of a fantasy twist. It has all the best parts of a fairy tale - the wicked queen being one of them. It's a sort of rags to riches tale with the setting being an almost generic dystopian city. There are certain hints that the 'queendoms' could be the various no-longer-united States of America - but I freely admit that I could be totally imagining that bit.

Charlie is a good kid with a gift that she has to hide from everyone, or risk being summarily executed - good incentive right? She is an affectionate and caring big sister, a great friend and an all round wonderful character. Her best friend Brook is as shallow as they come, but as the story progresses we see a depth to her character that has been skillfully hidden. Max, well he's just gorgeous. I loved the mystery that surrounded him and the way that he tries to protect Charlie.

This is one of the kind of stories that I really can't tell you more about without giving away major spoilers, but it is exciting, mysterious, romantic and just plain fun. I loved every minute of it and I'm even sorrier now that I didn't have the chance to finish it when I had access to the ARC. I'm now waiting impatiently for the second book in the series to come out. A great start to your new series Ms Derting, thank you.

In My Mailbox - January 16th

2012-01-16T08:00:00.001-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren in which bloggers post about the books they have received for the week. Books may be won, taken out from the library or bought from a store.

I received rather a motley collection this week, but none of them are too long, so hopefully I should be able to get through 2 or 3 of them at least.

I was having Blogger issues while putting in these pictures - very frustrating. However, I am noticing a bit of a trend here towards male protagonists, but it wasn't deliberate. Perhaps there are just a few more available these days? What's in your mailbox this week?

Same Book, Second Look: Demon's Surrender by Sarah Rees Brennan

2012-01-14T08:00:00.000-05:00

Published: June 2011

Publisher: Margaret K McElderry Books

Pages: 387

Copy: Bought

Summary: Goodreads

The Goblin Market has always been the center of Sin’s world. But now the Market is at war with the magicians, and Sin’s place is in danger. Thrown out of the Market she loves, Sin is thrown together with brothers Nick and Alan—whom she’s always despised.

Alan has been marked by a magician and is being tortured so that the magicians can get to Nick. As Sin watches Alan struggle to protect the demon brother he loves, she begins to see him in a new light—but she and Mae are locked in a fierce rivalry over who will inherit the leadership of the Goblin Market, and a decisive battle with the Aventurine Circle is looming. Mae’s brother, Jamie, is holed up with the magicians, his loyalties in question. And Nick—well, who knows what a demon might do to save his brother? How far will Nick go to save Alan—and what will it cost them all?

First off I have to say how much I LOVED this trilogy. It is now well up on my list of favourites. I had really enjoyed the first two and went out the day after it was released to get my own copy - then for some strange reason I didn't read it. Perhaps because Christinabean beat me to it? (Check out her review HERE.) I have so little reading time these days, that it seems foolish to read something and then not review it. Then a few days ago I started reading Demon's Surrender and found myself totally confused. It was such a long time since I had read the others that I had almost completely forgotten the story line. The moral here being, if you haven't already read books 1 and 2, don't start with #3. You need to read this trilogy from the beginning for it to make much sense.

Thankfully it didn't take too long for it all to come back to me and Ms Brennan's magical story telling captured me completely. It is just so easy to fall into her alternate London and become immersed in the Goblin Market with its myriad different characters. This interchange between Sin, Mae and Nick is priceless - p348

"Mae met her eyes with a level gaze, glanced at Nick, then leaned forward, frowning and suddenly intent, as if Nick was a mathematical equation she was bent on solving.

'What?' Nick said at last. 'Do I have something on my face besides good-looking?'"

That is Mae and Nick in a nutshell, Mae - analytical, focused, absorbed and Nick - careless, blunt, confused, and of course good-looking!

The pictures that develop in my mind of Sin and Nick dancing at the market, or Mae and Alan on the magicians ship, are so clear, I actually found myself imagining it as a movie and trying to decide who would be best for the characters. So far I've got Dakota Fanning as Mae - can't you just see her with bright pink hair? - and Eddie Redmayne as Alan. Not quite sure about the others yet, but I'm working on it!

This time around, Ms Brennan amped up the action even more and I just kept reading faster and faster. You know when you start to feel your heart race that you have a winner. Amazing character development, demon possessions, dancing circles, warring magicians, the Goblin Market and so much more, all adding up to an exciting thrill ride with some amazing twists and an extremely satisfying, if surprising, ending. Things did not work out the way I expected them to and it was wonderful to read.

Thank you Ms Brennan for a very satisfying and enjoyable read. Now what's next?

Friday Follow - January 13

2012-01-13T08:00:00.027-05:00

This week’s question –

Question of the Week: Many readers/bloggers are also big music fans. Tell us about a few of your favorite bands/singers that we should listen to in 2012.

Ok, this is where I show my age a bit. I will listen to a great variety of music. My favourite station on Sirius radio in the car is the adult contemporary one, but my ipod runs the gamut from classical to contemporary and just about everything in between (except rap - I haven't yet found any that I like). I'm a huge fan of Keane - just love their stuff - but I also like Josh Groban and Michael Buble. Then I love Daughtry and Nickelback, but also Il Divo and don't forget Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd and Russell Watson and the Backstreet Boys. See what I mean? I like to think that I'm a fan of good music regardless of genre - same as my book reading. Who do you listen to?

Guest Post from Special K: Robopocalypse by Daniel H Wilson

2012-01-12T08:00:00.000-05:00

Published: June 7, 2011
Publisher: DoubleDay
Pages: 347
Copy: Purchased
Summary: GoodReads

In the near future, at a moment no one will notice, all the dazzling technology that runs our world will unite and turn against us. Taking on the persona of a shy human boy, a childlike but massively powerful artificial intelligence known as Archos comes online and assumes control over the global network of machines that regulate everything from transportation to utilities, defense and communication. In the months leading up to this, sporadic glitches are noticed by a handful of unconnected humans – a single mother disconcerted by her daughter’s menacing “smart” toys, a lonely Japanese bachelor who is victimized by his domestic robot companion, an isolated U.S. soldier who witnesses a ‘pacification unit’ go haywire – but most are unaware of the growing rebellion until it is too late.

When the Robot War ignites -- at a moment known later as Zero Hour -- humankind will be both decimated and, possibly, for the first time in history, united. Robopocalypse is a brilliantly conceived action-filled epic, a terrifying story with heart-stopping implications for the real technology all around us…and an entertaining and engaging thriller unlike anything else written in years.

The hype surrounding this book got to me - I bought a copy within a week of its release. I headed home planning on diving head first into this one (the title and cover also egged me on to bump it to the front of my TBR list, I have to admit - I, like Christinabean, am a cover snob).

Fast forward to that evening, snuggled down in bed, turning to the first page, and...blah. I tried again. And again. And I couldn’t do it. For whatever reason, I couldn’t get past the first pages of this book.
Fast forward again almost 7 months. While I won’t say I couldn’t put it down, after sifting through the starts of many books in my TBR pile, Robopocalypse finally grabbed me again. Having never read any of Mr. Wilson’s other works, but well aware that he holds a Ph.D in robotics from Carnegie Mellon U., I expected a tech- heavy, intricate, robot-centric tale of how robots took over the Earth. Instead, I’m delightfully surprised with a series of interwoven vignettes, telling tales of human ingenuity, survival, and goodness.
The novel is written in a series of glimpses from different characters points of view - the best way to describe it would be to liken it to a soap opera (*shudder*, I know...but stay with me), where you see different stories from different individuals, but they weave together in interesting twists and show you the story from multiple angles, with different takes on the same story and ideas.

We start at the end of the robot war, where a box is discovered that has recorded scenes and information following certain people - we of course then get to read a selection of these tales that have been transcribed for us, and the characters appear multiple times, sometimes as our narrator and in others as a secondary character. We hear from children, mothers, Native Americans, urban couples and more. We see how humans, despite the despicable things we’ve done, are inherently good, how they will do anything to survive with their fellow man, and how our smarts got us in this mess in the first place. Above all, we learn to value life as the amazing gift that it is and it takes a non-living, sentient race to remind us so.

Wilson’s Ph. D lends well to making the robot technology believable without being outlandish - this could be 5 or 50 years in our future, and few people recognize just how close we are to this being our reality. But our author keeps us focused on the human experience in this end-of-the-world tale, and I thank him for it, as I find it’s a novel that tech-heads and human lovers can enjoy side by side.

Great for guys - I mean, it’s robots with slim to no romance; but a word to the wise, the language can be a little strong at times (but what do you expect when robots have taken over the world?!).

Thanks again to Special K for jumping in. This is a title that has been on my TBR list for a while, but I just keep passing over, for unknown reasons.
Curlypow

Waiting on Wednesday - Incarnate by Jodi Meadows

2012-01-11T08:00:00.000-05:00

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, thatspotlights upcoming releases that we’re eagerly anticipating or books that arein our TBR pile. This week’s “can’t-wait-to-read” selection is

Summary (by Goodreads)

NEWSOUL
Ana is new. For thousands of years in Range, a million souls have been reincarnated over and over, keeping their memories and experiences from previous lifetimes. When Ana was born, another soul vanished, and no one knows why.

NOSOUL
Even Ana’s own mother thinks she’s a nosoul, an omen of worse things to come, and has kept her away from society. To escape her seclusion and learn whether she’ll be reincarnated, Ana travels to the city of Heart, but its citizens are suspicious and afraid of what her presence means. When dragons and sylph attack the city, is Ana to blame?

HEART
Sam believes Ana’s new soul is good and worthwhile. When he stands up for her, their relationship blooms. But can he love someone who may live only once, and will Ana’s enemies—human and creature alike—let them be together? Ana needs to uncover the mistake that gave her someone else’s life, but will her quest threaten the peace of Heart and destroy the promise of reincarnation for all?

Jodi Meadows expertly weaves soul-deep romance, fantasy, and danger into an extraordinary tale of new life.

As always, this was a beautiful cover that caught my eye and an interesting story to boot. I managed to snag a copy from our good friends at NetGalley last month so keep your eyes peeled for a review coming soon!

Let's Hear It For The Boys - Alienation by Jon S Lewis

2012-01-10T08:00:00.022-05:00

Published: January 3rd, 2012

Publisher: Thomas Nelson

Pages: 288

Copy: Courtesy of Netgalley and publisher

Summary: Goodreads

The invasion was only the beginning . . .

After his parents were killed in a car accident, Colt McAllister was drawn into a world he thought only existed in comic books-one where mind control, jet packs, and flying motorcycles don't even scratch the surface.

Along with his best friends Oz and Danielle, Colt is now training at the secret Central Headquarters Against the Occult and Supernatural academy. But strange accidents seem to follow him. . . even with the security of the school grounds. What first seems random soon turns deadly. But who is targeting Colt?

As the alien invasions increase in frequency and force, C.H.A.O.S resources are taxed to the limit and they're forced to utilize the new recruits. In the midst of battle, Colt will discover some startling revelations . . . about himself, his friendship with Oz, and why he has been chosen to defeat this alien attack against earth.

'Alienation' is the 2nd volume in the C.H.A.O.S. series and as far as I'm concerned it fully lived up to it's potential. The first volume 'Invasion' came out in Jan 2011 - see my review HERE, and I was very enthusiatic about it. Alienation definitely did not disappoint. Colt, Danielle and Oz are all set to join the CHAOS academy, but it would be just too much to hope that their arrival would go without complications.

Without giving away too much there are lots of new gadgets, including hoverboards and simulators, more intriguing aliens and the action never really stops. The best way I can think to describe this enjoyable story is a comic book without pictures. The words paint the pictures this time. It was like everyone's favourite comic book characters and situations are all rolled into one exciting and engrossing package. It's a fairly quick read and it's more than suitable for younger teens, be they male or female - Danielle is definitely the brains of the bunch. We find out a little more about the characters' backgrounds and there are some very surprising twists, that for me anyway, were totally unexpected. All in all lots of fun and highly recommended.

In My Mailbox - January 9th

2012-01-09T12:15:00.004-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren in which bloggers post about the books they have received for the week. Books may be won, taken out from the library or bought from a store.

This week I went to the library and I just couldn't help myself. There were so many great titles out there and although I SHOULD have been working from my personal library, I had trouble choosing. Here's what I snagged

I have to confess that Damned is a book that I've been caught up in. I read Crusade and enjoyed it then was lucky enough to get Damned off NetGalley as an ARC and couldn't get through it before it expired. Then I took it out of the library and still couldn't finish it in time. Uh, third time's a charm, right?

The Burn by Annie Oldham

2012-01-08T08:18:00.047-05:00

Published: September 2011

e-copy: Received for review

Pages: 234

Summary: Goodreads

The Burn is full of nuclear fallout, roving gangs, anarchy, unreliable plumbing. That's what Terra's father tells her. She has lived her whole life in comfort in a colony at the bottom of the Pacific Ocean. She hates it. And she would pay any price to leave. But when Terra finally escapes the colony, she finds out her father is right.

She finds a group of survivors that quickly become friends, and every day with them is a race for survival. When she witnesses and commits unspeakable acts, she has to decide where her loyalty lies: with the colony she despises or The Burn, where every day is filled with nightmares.

"The Burn" was an interesting book that I enjoyed. I very much liked the idea that some of humanity had taken to the water - I've often thought ithe ocean is a huge untapped resource, so this was a new angle for me. The creepiness of the whole 'watcher' idea had my skin crawling - definite shades of '1984' and' Big Brother, but something that is surprisingly relevant these days.

I enjoyed Terra's character, but I did have an issue with the way she immediately seemed to trust, and be trusted by, almost everyone. I can't imagine anyone with the type of handicap she had (sorry, not saying what it is) being so comfortable, so quickly with such a diverse group of people. That could just be my distrustful nature though! I did like the relationship between Dave and Mary - the uncertainty there really rang true to me and was well done, and all of my OMG moments were cleared up nicely by the end. I think my biggest problem with the story was that it was too short. If it had been longer, Ms Oldham would have been able to flesh out the characters just a little and have added someback story to the group that Terra ends up with. I found myself wanting to know more about some of the minor characters - Jack in particular - and more about the ever circling 'government'. Where did the helicopters come from - why were there food drops if people were being picked up for labour camps?

If, on the whole, 'The Burn' was a little bit predictable with things developing a touch quickly, it was never-the-less an interesting read that I would recommend to dystopian lovers, and I'm looking forward to seeing what else Ms Oldham has for us in the future.

TBR or not TBR

2012-01-07T08:00:00.003-05:00

What to do?

Is it just me, or has anyone else noticed that their TBR pile just keeps getting bigger and bigger! Whether the pile is actual books, or virtual ones, if it's anything like mine, it keeps growing exponentially. I decided a few days ago that if I couldn't clear my actual pile any faster, I could at least prune my virtual list.

I am a huge fan of Goodreads, and I use it almost daily, and unfortunately my TBR list in there had reached the giddy heights of 574 titles. Now I don't know about you, but I don't think I'm ever going to be able to get through that lot, even if I stop actually adding to it. So, I decided to do something about it. The first thing I noticed was that I had added volumes 2, 3 etc of series that I hadn't even read volume 1 of. Scratch them off the list, well delete them anyway. I kept looking and decided if there were titles by authors whose books I hadn't liked previously, chances were, I wouldn't like others - so deleted they were. Then I went through and deleted any titles that were over 18 mths old. I figured if I hadn't got to them by now, well time to say goodbye.

I carried on and I thought I was doing well, deletion after deletion going into my recycle bin. I figured I had to have my list down to reasonably manageable 200 or so - no such luck. By the time I had deleted everything I thought I had the remotest chance of not reading I had reached the wonderful total of 400! I had managed to get rid of 174 titles, which I reckon is pretty good going, but it still left me with 400!

Am I ever likely to get through them all. Probably not. I seem to add at least 5 new titles a week and I only manage to read 2 -3 - which isn't bad really when you consider I work and I have a family, but it is still woefully short of the 1 a day I would have to read if I ever want to get caught up. All I can say is, it's a good job this pile isn't for real. It's so easy to click a button and rid myself of a potential good book, it's a completely different story when the pile is for real! If I mention that my non-virtual pile has been growing for about 20 years, does that give you an idea of how large it is? Does anyone have any pruning tips for me?

OK, I'm off to tackle the real thing. Wish me luck :)

PS Just in case anyone is interested, my total book list on Goodreads is just under 2,000 and I still have about 15 years worth of titles to add to it - eventually. I'm too busy reading right now to add any more old ones, but I'll be in the right mood one day and I'll finish it. I've been keeping a book diary since I was 17 and it's getting pretty lengthy!

Friday Follow - January 6th, 2012

2012-01-06T13:34:00.000-05:00

This week’s question –

Go count the number of unread books sitting on your shelf. How many?

This was rather a frightening task, so I decided to cheat a little. I counted the unread books on the three bookshelves in my sewing room, which is where I normally sit to read - I got to 42. I suspect there are at least twice that many downstairs on the other 6 bookshelves, but I'm too frightened to check :P

The Katerina Trilogy Vol 1: The Gathering Storm by Robin Bridges

2012-01-05T08:00:00.000-05:00

Published: January 10, 2012

Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers

Pages: 400

e-copy: courtesy of Netgalley and publisher

Summary: Goodreads

St. Petersburg, Russia, 1888. As she attends a whirl of glittering balls, royal debutante Katerina Alexandrovna, Duchess of Oldenburg, tries to hide a dark secret: she can raise the dead. No one knows. Not her family. Not the girls at her finishing school. Not the tsar or anyone in her aristocratic circle. Katerina considers her talent a curse, not a gift. But when she uses her special skill to protect a member of the Imperial Family, she finds herself caught in a web of intrigue.

An evil presence is growing within Europe's royal bloodlines—and those aligned with the darkness threaten to topple the tsar. Suddenly Katerina's strength as a necromancer attracts attention from unwelcome sources . . . including two young men—George Alexandrovich, the tsar's standoffish middle son, who needs Katerina's help to safeguard Russia, even if he's repelled by her secret, and the dashing Prince Danilo, heir to the throne of Montenegro, to whom Katerina feels inexplicably drawn.

The time has come for Katerina to embrace her power, but which side will she choose—and to whom will she give her heart?

'The Gathering Storm' is a captivating historical romance with engaging characters and a wonderful story that I read in just about one sitting. What makes this different from most historical romances is the paranormal aspect. For starters, Katiya is a necromancer, confused and unsure about her powers. It's not enough that she has to navigate the confusing social circles of Tsarist Russia, she has to find out how to stop blood drinkers and revenants (think vampires and zombies) from taking over the aristocracy. Then we have the fact that the royal family is composed of opposing factions from faerie, both dark and light courts, and the story really starts to get interesting.

Poor Katiya really doesn't know which way to turn, and to make a confusing situation even worse, she keeps bumping into Grand Duke George, who is totally infuriating, and seems to delight in making her life difficult. There are plots and twists and attempted assassinations enough to keep everyone guessing and a wonderful love story just to keep things interesting.

I highly recommend this one to lovers of historical and paranormal fiction. Ms Bridges has merged the two genres seamlessly and the result is a truly promising start to what looks to be a fascinating trilogy. I can't wait to see what happens in volume two.

Waiting on Wednesday - The Gathering Storm by Robin Bridges

2012-01-04T08:00:00.011-05:00

Published: January 10th

In Case You Missed It - A Town Called Alice by Nevil Shute

2012-01-03T08:00:00.023-05:00

Originally published 1950

Nevil Shute’s most beloved novel, a tale of love and war, follows its enterprising heroine from the Malayan jungle during World War II to the rugged Australian outback.
Jean Paget, a young Englishwoman living in Malaya, is captured by the invading Japanese and forced on a brutal seven-month death march with dozens of other women and children. A few years after the war, Jean is back in England, the nightmare behind her. However, an unexpected inheritance inspires her to return to Malaya to give something back to the villagers who saved her life. Jean travels leads her to a desolate Australian outpost called Willstown, where she finds a challenge that will draw on all the resourcefulness and spirit that carried her through her war-time ordeals.

My copy of 'ATown Like Alice ' is a British hardcover copy that was published as 'The Legacy'. It has been read and reread so many times that the cover is falling apart and the pages are held together by a thread. It is a story of the hardships of war, and the adventures of a new life and falling in love. I'm sure most people reading it now for the first time would think it very old fashioned, but at the time it was published it was very popular. The horrors of the female prisoners being forced to march across Malaysia are hard to believe and the courage shown is remarkable. It is ultimately a story of hope and love and it has been a favourite of mine for many years.

There was a movie made of the story in 1981 starring Bryan Brown and Helen Morse, and I remember enjoying it very much. Is there anyone else out there who remembers that movie? Anyway, if you like history and a good love story, give 'A Town Like Alice' a try, I'm certain you won't be disappointed.

Mid-Winter's Eve blog hop winner!

2012-01-02T08:00:00.009-05:00

Well we're sorry it took so long, but the winner of our Midwinter's Eve Blog Hop giveaway is - drum roll please ...... Dinda Lestarini, from Indonesia. We've emailed you Dinda and we're waiting to hear from you. Thank you so much to the 120 or so of you who entered our giveaway for Cassandra Clare's Clockwork Prince. For those of you who weren't so lucky - better luck next time and Happy New Year.

In My Mailbox - January 2nd

2012-01-02T08:00:00.008-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren in which bloggers post about the books they have received for the week. Books may be won, taken out from the library or bought from a store.

Well I didn't get anything new from the library this week, but Santa was very good and managed to find me the two books I had asked for.

I've been waiting for these two for quite a while now, so I was delighted to see them on Christmas morning. I haven't had a chance to start either one yet, but I look forward to it. I hope Santa delivered what you wanted!

Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins

2012-01-01T08:00:00.050-05:00

Published: September 2011

Publisher: Dutton

Pages: 338

Copy: Library

Summary: Goodreads

Budding designer Lola Nolan doesn’t believe in fashion . . . she believes in costume. The more expressive the outfit -- more sparkly, more fun, more wild -- the better. But even though Lola’s style is outrageous, she’s a devoted daughter and friend with some big plans for the future. And everything is pretty perfect (right down to her hot rocker boyfriend) until the dreaded Bell twins, Calliope and Cricket, return to the neighborhood.

When Cricket -- a gifted inventor -- steps out from his twin sister’s shadow and back into Lola’s life, she must finally reconcile a lifetime of feelings for the boy next door.

I don't read a lot of contemporary novels - I tend to read more historical and/or fantasy type, but when I read Anna and the French Kiss earlier this year I really, really enjoyed it. and I was on the waiting list for Lola as soon as it appeared in the catalogue at work. (I think I may even have suggested we purchase it.) Well Ms. Perkins did not let me down at all. LATBND was everything I was expecting, and more.

Ms Perkins writes with humour and pathos. Neither is overwhelming, but both are effective. I just fell in love with Lola and Cricket. They were such amazingly real characters. Lola is wonderfully colourful and creative and has such an amazing belief in herself. Her periods of self-doubt were heartbreaking and utterly believable. Her relationship with Cricket was so unusual, yet at the same time it was easy to recognise the feelings they both had. I loved having main characters that are not part of the 'beautiful people' crowd, but are a little on the outcast side. Lola's costumes sounded so wonderful and I wish I had had the courage to be as different as she is.

If you read Anna and the French Kiss ( and if you haven't, you should have), you will recognise Anna and St Clair and it was so lovely to find out a little bit about what happened to them after they left France. Lola and the Boy Next Door is a contemporary romance that should satisfy anyone's need for a romantic fix and I highly recommend it.

New Year's Resolutions

2011-12-31T08:00:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year!

This year, we'd like to make some new year's resolutions.

Christinabean

Some of my favourite random videos

2011-12-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

Just because I'm Canadian and this is so hilarious....

Sass and Serendipity by Jennifer Ziegler

2011-12-29T08:00:00.005-05:00

Published: July 2011

Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers

Pages: 364

Copy: From Library

Summary: Goodreads

For Daphne, the glass is always half full, a situation is better managed with a dab of lip gloss, and the boy of her dreams—the one she's read about in all of her novels—is waiting for her just around the corner.

For Gabby, nothing ever works out positively; wearing any form of makeup is a waste of study time, and boys will only leave you heartbroken. Her best friend, Mule, is the only one who has been there for her every step of the way.
But when the richest boy in town befriends Gabby, and Daphne starts to hang out more and more with her best and only friend, Mule, Gabby is forced to confront the emotional barriers she has put up to stop the hurting. And for once, her sassiness may fall prey to her definition of stupidity.

I have always thought that Jane Austen's 'Sense and Sensibility' was the quintessential sister book. With 'Sass and Serendipity', Ms Ziegler has brought that story up-to-date and has made it contemporary enough for todays teens.

'Sass and Serendipity' isn't a complete slave to the original story, but it does have all the high points, even if some of them play out in a rather surprising fashion. I never had a sister myself, but I found Daphne and Gabby were believable as two sisters falling on hard times and falling in love, and if I occasionally wanted to shake one or other of them and tell them to smarten up, it was because I became involved in the story, and not because I didn't like the characters. Prentiss and Mule were perfect boy candy, from opposite ends of the social spectrum, and Mule is just exactly the kind of slave - er, sorry, friend - we all wish we'd had.

The story was a fairly quick, enjoyable read, that will give you a perfect romantic fix for this time of year, and it just might get you interested in reading the original, if you haven't already.

Waiting on Wednesday - Double header

2011-12-28T08:00:00.014-05:00

Check out this trailer for Bloodrose. As of writing this WOW post, I have not yet finished Wolfsbane but you can bet that I'll be picking up Bloodrose right away!!

Musings by Knitwits - The Treats Truck Baking Book by Kim Ima

2011-12-27T08:00:00.038-05:00

Published: November 2012

Publisher: Harper Collins

Pages: 144

Copy: courtesy of Netgalley and Publishe

I know this is our Musings by Knitwits post, and this is definitely not a craft book but when I saw this marvellous new cookbook I just had to share it with you.

Sugar wanders around Brooklyn, Manhattan and the Upper West side dispensing goodies to sugar-deprived New Yorkers and brightening up the day - oh and by the way, Sugar is the name of the truck that Kim Ima, owner/driver/baker of the Treats Truck, bought 2nd hand and refurbished so that she can deliver hand baked goodies to the masses - and she has elected to give up some of her baking secrets, in this delightful new book. There is also a bakery in Brooklyn called the Treats Truck Stop, which I would love to visit myself. If any of you are visiting New York, you can find out where Sugar will be by visiting www.treatstruck.com

This wonderful book has recipes for many of Kim's most requested treats, including cookies, brownies, pies and cakes. You could try peanut butter, pumpkin swirl, or chocolate chipper cookies; a caramel creme sandwich or raspberry ring; cherry brownies or classic rice crispy squares; carrot, apple or lemon cakes; apple, pecan or pumpkin pies - these are just a few of the treats you can try for yourself. There's even a whole chapter on frostings and fillings - cream cheese frosting anyone?

This is a bright, colourful book with wonderful photos and neat illustrations, and would make a wonderful gift for your favourite baker. What better way to drop a hint.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T08:00:00.002-05:00

Christinabean and I would just like to take this opportunity to wish every one of our followers, new and old, a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Thank you for your visits, comments and entries into our give-aways. We hope we will continue to see you (if only virtually) next year. Thank you and very best wishes from both of us. Happy reading.

Curlypow and Christinabean

This Dark Endeavour by Kenneth Oppel

2011-12-24T08:00:00.000-05:00

Published: October 2011

Publisher: David Fickling Books

Pages: 352

Copy provided by: Borrowed

Summary: Goodreads

Summary:

Victor and Konrad are the twin brothers Frankenstein. They are nearly inseparable. Growing up, their lives are filled with imaginary adventures...until the day their adventures turn all too real.

They stumble upon The Dark Library, and secret books of alchemy and ancient remedies are discovered. Father forbids that they ever enter the room again, but this only peaks Victor's curiosity more. When Konrad falls gravely ill, Victor is not be satisfied with the various doctors his parents have called in to help. He is drawn back to The Dark Library where he uncovers an ancient formula for the Elixir of Life. Elizabeth, Henry, and Victor immediately set out to find assistance in a man who was once known for his alchemical works to help create the formula.

Determination and the unthinkable outcome of losing his brother spur Victor on in the quest for the three ingredients that will save Konrads life. After scaling the highest trees in the Strumwald, diving into the deepest lake caves, and sacrificing one’s own body part, the three fearless friends risk their lives to save another.

Review:

Truth be told, I have never read a title by Kenneth Oppel. However, learning from other librarians, he is often used as one of my go-to authors for reluctant young male readers. I found This Dark Endeavour a bit tough to get into . I often felt as though I would require an English accent to narrate properly (which begs the question - what does the audiobook sound like?). However, once this book started going, it just never stopped. I am happy to say that I enjoyed reading This Dark Endeavour immensely. There were tense moments when I never wanted to put it down! Mr. Oppel did a fine job of keeping me entertained. I felt that the story had all of the elements I was looking for in a YA novel - mystery, romance and lots of action.

This would be a great title for a reluctant teenage reader if they can get through the first 20 pages. For me, it was well worth the time to finish up the book.

**spoiler**

There was one scene in the story where an alchemist, Polidori is performing "surgery" on a book. It reminded me of piecing together Frankenstein (also the last name of the main characters). There were lots of clever quips and scenes in this novel. Two thumbs up for me! Curlypow, you'd better bump This Dark Endeavour up on your TBR list!

Don't forget to check out our give-away for the Mid-Winters Eve Blog Hop. The lucky winner will receive a copy of Cassandra Clare's Clockwork Prince. Check our HERE for the details.

Friday Follow - December 23rd

2011-12-23T22:44:00.000-05:00

This week’s question –

Question of the Week: If you had to spend eternity inside the pages of a book which book would you choose and why?

Wow, this has to be one of the hardest questions to answer. There are so many amazing worlds that have been created by amazing authors, it is really difficult to chose. Today, I think I'd go with the world in Graceling. A little bit medieval, a little bit fantasy, and I love the idea of having a 'Grace'. Of course, mine would have to be a very useful grace, like being a good cook! Sounds good to me!

Don't forget that we are still part of the Mid Winters Eve Blog Hop, and we are giving away a copy of Clockwork Prince. Check out the details HERE

Christmas Traditions

2011-12-22T08:00:00.001-05:00

Its hard to believe but Christmas is right around the corner. I love hearing how my friends spend their Christmases. Traditionally in our family on Christmas Eve, we would all go out for dinner at a Chinese restaurant and then meet again on Christmas day for a big breakfast. My dad cooks up bacon, eggs, homemade hashbrowns, sausage and fluffy waffles made with an ancient waffle iron...served with real Canadian maple syrup (yeah, its expensive but sooooo worthwhile as a treat!). I think its the waffle iron that makes these waffles to die for. Seriously, I have given up trying to find another waffle iron that makes magic waffles like this one does. It is so old that it is a fire hazard! We never have enough chairs at the table for all of our family to sit around and eat breakfast so we eat in "shifts" and take turns either cooking or eating (well, mostly eating). After breakfast we head into the living room to open gifts. My sister and I used to be responsible for ensuring that everyone has a gift to open at all times. Lucky for us, we have our kids to do this job now...uh, I mean we've passed down the tradition. After all of the presents have been opened, we head to our respective homes for a nap and return later for a huge feast. Homemade biscuits and my Dad's famous sticky rice are all part of the meal.

What holiday traditions does your family follow?

Hey Christinabean, that sounds like a lot of fun with your family. The one thing I remember with my family when I was small was that my brothers and I had to open our presents one at a time and in order. And we had to show the others what we got each time. It was fun and it used to make the present opening last so much longer. I'm sure it always made it easier for my Mum to remember what was from whom as well. We used to follow up with a big breakfast that would keep us going until about 4:00 pm - my Mum refused to cook more than twice on Christmas day. I have passed that tradition down to my kids as well and they seem to enjoy it as much as I did. It would be lovely if it got passed down to the next generation as well.

Waiting on Wednesday - Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi

2011-12-21T08:00:00.004-05:00

Summary (by Goodreads)

Aria is a teenager in the enclosed city of Reverie. Like all Dwellers, she spends her time with friends in virtual environments, called Realms, accessed through an eyepiece called a Smarteye. Aria enjoys the Realms and the easy life in Reverie. When she is forced out of the pod for a crime she did not commit, she believes her death is imminent. The outside world is known as The Death Shop, with danger in every direction.

As an Outsider, Perry has always known hunger, vicious predators, and violent energy storms from the swirling electrified atmosphere called the Aether. A bit of an outcast even among his hunting tribe, Perry withstands these daily tests with his exceptional abilities, as he is gifted with powerful senses that enable him to scent danger, food and even human emotions.

They come together reluctantly, for Aria must depend on Perry, whom she considers a barbarian, to help her get back to Reverie, while Perry needs Aria to help unravel the mystery of his beloved nephew’s abduction by the Dwellers. Together they embark on a journey challenged as much by their prejudices as by encounters with cannibals and wolves. But to their surprise, Aria and Perry forge an unlikely love - one that will forever change the fate of all who live UNDER THE NEVER SKY.

I heard about this title briefly a few months ago but haven't heard much buzz about it in the blogsphere. I'm interested to hear if its on your TBR list!

Mid-Winter's Eve Blog Hop Giveaway

2011-12-20T22:30:00.002-05:00

Welcome to the Paperback Princesses' entry into the Mid-Winter's Eve Blog Hop!

We are giving away one title for this contest. Here are the details -

So we were thinking about a title that we'd like to share this year and to be honest, there were so many great books for 2011 that we're going to give away the most recent release that we were so excited for - Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare. This contest is open internationally to anywhere the Book Depository delivers and you MUST be a follower of our blog. If you would like 2 additional entries, you can tweet about our contest post and leave a link to your tweet.
We've even done the tough part and created one for you to copy and paste!

Win Clockwork Prince with the Paperback Princesses - http://allaboutyabooks.blogspot.com/2011/12/mid-winters-eve-blog-hop-giveaway.html

Sorry Contest is now closed

Please fill in our contest entry form.

Good luck!

This hop runs from December 21st - December 27th.

Looking for more blogs to hop to?

CLICK HERE

Fantastic Fairytales - Cinder by Marissa Meyer

2011-12-20T08:00:00.005-05:00

Published: January 3rd 2012

Publisher: Fiewel and Friends

Pages: 387

e-copy: Courtesy of Netgalley and publisher

Summary: Goodreads

Humans and androids crowd the raucous streets of New Beijing. A deadly plague ravages the population. From space, a ruthless lunar people watch, waiting to make their move. No one knows that Earth’s fate hinges on one girl. . . .

Cinder, a gifted mechanic, is a cyborg. She’s a second-class citizen with a mysterious past, reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister’s illness. But when her life becomes intertwined with the handsome Prince Kai’s, she suddenly finds herself at the center of an intergalactic struggle, and a forbidden attraction. Caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal, she must uncover secrets about her past in order to protect her world’s future.

I had so much fun reading Cinder. It was so much more than I had expected in a retelling of Cinderella. Yes, we have an orphan with a wicked stepmother and two stepsisters, and there is a ball and a handsome prince. But that is where the similarity ends. Think futuristic, dystopian, space-operatic Cinderella, and you might be a little closer to the mark.

Ms Meyer has managed to take a well loved fairy tale and turn it completely upside down. At the same time she has managed to keep everything we all love about the story. Cinder is a wonderfully complex, mysterious character whom you just can't help but love. Circumstances fly out of her control at every turn, but she manages to pull herself to her feet, literally and figuratively, and make the best of every bad situation. Prince Kai is just swoon worthy. I love the fact that he escapes from the palace wearing a hoodie!

I could tell you more, but really I just want you all to go out and read Cinder for yourselves. Fairy tale fans will love it, dystopian fans will love it, mystery fans will love it too. The only negative thing I have to say is that we have to wait until some unknown time next year before we can find out what happens to Cinder. May'be it's not ' happily ever after' after all! Give yourself a treat in the New Year - January 3rd to be exact - and buy a copy. You will not regret it.