Waiting on Wednesday - Double Header (August 31st)

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 another double header!

We were lucky enough to receive ARCs of both of these titles from Simon and Schuster Canada so be on the lookout for our reviews coming soon!  Beautiful covers eh?

Hourglass by Myra McEntire

Published: June 2011

Publisher: Egmont USA

Pages: 390

Copy: From Library

Summary: Goodreads

For seventeen-year-old Emerson Cole, life is about seeing what isn’t there: swooning Southern Belles; soldiers long forgotten; a haunting jazz trio that vanishes in an instant. Plagued by phantoms since her parents’ death, she just wants the apparitions to stop so she can be normal. She’s tried everything, but the visions keep coming back.

So when her well-meaning brother brings in a consultant from a secretive organization called the Hourglass, Emerson’s willing to try one last cure. But meeting Michael Weaver may not only change her future, it may change her past.

Who is this dark, mysterious, sympathetic guy, barely older than Emerson herself, who seems to believe every crazy word she says? Why does an electric charge seem to run through the room whenever he’s around? And why is he so insistent that he needs her help to prevent a death that never should have happened?

Full of atmosphere, mystery, and romance, Hourglass merges the very best of the paranormal and science-fiction genres in a seductive, remarkable young adult debut.

Hourglass was a lovely romantic take on time-travel, with a bit of an X-men 2K11 vibe.  Yes I know that sounds a little weird, but it works - it works really well. It was a great suspenseful read with super characters and slippery villains.  Emerson and Michael have an instant, sparks-flying attraction to each other that made me want to sigh - it's the kind of attraction we all secretly wish we could find, but love to hate. 

Emerson has not had an easy life and when she meets Michael and hears about Hourglass, it sounds as if finally she may get the help she needs.  I rather liked Michael, other than the fact that he kept 'not' telling her things for her own good.  I know, it's a guy thing!  He is of course, gorgeous, and not-quite perfect, with a bit of a hero complex - just exactly what we love in our leading men.  Thomas and Dru were wonderful surrogate parents for Em, with Dru stepping nicely into the 'big sister' role, without overdoing it.  When Em meets Kaleb and Nate,  nicely rounded  minor characters, there was a rightness to the group, and this is where the X-men factor comes in. 

'I realized that I was comfortable here, too.  I looked at Michael, still digging around in the fridge, and at Kaleb beside me.  It felt right.  They felt right.  I hadn't come here expecting to find a place to belong.

Team Freak.  Wonder if we could get jerseys.'

The similarity to X-men is really only in the inclusion of different and complimentary 'powers' that contribute to a sense of team spirit.  Lots of fun and with lots of opportunity for future stories.  Time travel is always an iffy subject to get right, what with paradoxes and etc., but Ms McEntire did a good job in making it completely plausible, so it made sense.  I didn't feel I had to suspend disbelief too much and it was easy to follow along with the concept. All in all, I enjoyed Hourglass much more than I had anticipated, and I am now looking forward to a follow-up volume, although I couldn't find any indication of when that would be.  Nice debut Ms McEntire.

In My Mailbox - August 29th

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 won a few books this week and two that I want to highlight are from Tynga's Reviews (Thankyou Tynga!) -

Yesterday I had a review of Always a Witch, a title I enjoyed immensely.  Originally I read it from NetGalley but I'm so excited to have a hard copy of my own now.  Lost Voices is another I've had my eye on for awhile.  The other two titles are a surprise...names I have not heard of before but you may just be seeing them   in Let's Hear it for the Boys in the coming months.  :D  What's in your mailbox?

Always a Witch by Carolyn MacCullough

Published: August 2011

Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt

Pages: 288

Copy Provided by: NetGalley

Summary: Goodreads

Summary:

The adventures of Tam and Gabriel continue with more time travel, Talents, spy work, and of course, the evil Knights.

Since the gripping conclusion of Once A Witch, Tamsin Greene has been haunted by her grandmother's prophecy that she will soon be forced to make a crucial decision—one so terrible that it could harm her family forever. When she discovers that her enemy, Alistair Knight, went back in time to Victorian-era New York in order to destroy her family, Tamsin is forced to follow him into the past. Stranded all alone in the nineteenth century, Tamsin soon finds herself disguised as a lady's maid in the terrifying mansion of the evil Knight family, avoiding the watchful eye of the vicious matron, La Spider, and fending off the advances of Liam Knight. As time runs out, both families square off in a thrilling display of magic. And to her horror, Tamsin finally understands the nature of her fateful choice.
 
Review:
 
I was lucky enough to nab this title from NetGalley.  I had only ever seen the cover and didn't know much about the story.  It wasn't until I was a few pages in that I realized that this was the second book in a series.  I thought I'd give it a try anyway and much to my surprise, Ms. MacCullough did a great job of giving me background from the first title but did not reveal enough to spoil Book 1 - Once a Witch.  I'd like to go back and read the first book once my TBR pile isn't as high.
 
So let's talk plot and interest.  I loved Always a Witch it had such an interesting storyline with witches who developed Talents.  Tam was a doll and she had the most interesting talent of all.  I was curious about Tam and Gabriel's relationship but it just leaves something to look forward to when I dive into Once a Witch.


For me, the story was steady and kept me interested right from the beginning. The characters were intriguing and there were lots of subplots.  The ending also took a twist that I wasn't expecting.  I'd be all in for a Book #3 if Ms. MacCullough continued with Tam and her family.  Two thumbs up for me with this read!

Ashes by Ilsa J Bick

Published: Sept. 6th, 2011

Publisher: Egmont, USA

Pages: 480

E-Copy: Courtesy of Netgalley and Publisher

Summary: Goodreads

It could happen tomorrow...



A cataclysmic event. An army of "The Changed."

Can one teen really survive on her own?

An electromagnetic pulse sweeps through the sky, destroying every electronic device and killing billions. For those spared, it's a question of who can be trusted and who is no longer human...


Desperate to find out what happened and to avoid the Changed, Alex meets up with Tom---a young army veteran---and Ellie, a young girl whose grandfather was killed by the electromagnetic pulse.


This improvised family will have to use every ounce of courage they have just to survive.

When I started reading 'Ashes' I was thinking I would just give it a few pages more since it wasn't really capturing my attention - I wasn't sure where it was going. Then BAM ....everything hits the fan and the story takes off, with things going from bad, to worse, to worst.  I was absolutely enthralled by the book and felt an almost visceral fear as I was reading.  It seems so very plausible, and therefore so much more disturbing.
 
The story revolves around Alex and her experiences after the 'event'.  Alex has a handicap, not a physical one, but a medical one, and this affects her way of thinking.  She meets up with Ellie,  an irritating 8 yr old, and Tom, a  very self sufficient soldier and together they try to make sense of what has happened and to cope through the winter.  Each of these characters is well rounded and well written and it is easy to believe in their struggles.  A variety of other characters flit in and out of the story and we are constantly hoping that the situation will improve for Alex, Ellie and Tom.  There are some wild surprises and surprising characters that will leave your heart pounding.

I have wondered occasionally how I would cope if there were some kind of apocalyptic event. Would I be calm and sensible, or would I fall apart? Would I be able to adjust to a new world? 'Ashes' asks just that question. How do we cope in extreme adversity? What would happen to society when everything we know has gone?

Ms. Bick gives us a very intriguing answer to that question. She writes in such a way that you almost become part of the action.  There is small hope, huge despair and struggle and an almost palpable sense of dread - with no end in sight,  but the need to turn each page and find out how the characters cope is so compelling that it was physically hard to put the book (or ereader in this case) down.  It's an exciting  and incredibly gripping book and has easily become one of my favourites for the year. I am anxiously waiting for the follow-up, although I suspect this will be quite some time arriving as 'Ashes' isn't published until next month.  Thanks again to Egmont for the opportunity to read this marvellous book.


Gramatical changes made at 12.30 am Aug 29th.

Friday Blog Hop - August 26th

In the spirit of the Twitter Friday Follow, the Book Blogger Hop is a place just for book bloggers and readers to connect and find new book-related blogs that we may be missing out on! This weekly BOOK PARTY is an awesome opportunity for book bloggers to connect with other book lovers, make new friends, support each other, and generally just share our love of books! It will also give blog readers a chance to find other book blogs that they may not know existed!

Each week, participating blogs are asked questions to post and answer on their websites.This week’s question: “ “Non-book-related this week!! Do you have pets?” 

Yes I do.  I have little cat called Lucy.  She's a bit lonely right now since we lost her big sister a short while ago.  I also get visited by my Grand-doggies at least once a week.  They are a doberman and a german short-haired pointer/alaskan huskie mix.  That's Dante and Lexie respectively.  I love them, because they come to visit, and then they leave - best of both worlds.



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 not to only focus on new YA books but also great titles from the past.

Nocturne by Christine Johnson

Published: August 23 2011

Publisher: Simon Pulse

Pages: 368

e-copy: Courtesy of Simon and Schuster galley grab

Summary: Goodreads

After the tragic events of the summer, Claire is looking forward to a new school year. All she wants to worry about is finding the most gorgeous dress to wear to the Autumn Ball with her perfect boyfriend. But as Claire knows all too well, the life of a werewolf is never that simple, or that sweet.


When Claire’s human and wolf lives start to collide, her worst nightmares come true. She is hurting her best friend. She has been caught lying. And then the unthinkable happens: Someone discovers Claire’s secret.


If Claire’s werewolf identity is exposed, everyone she knows will be put at risk. And the pack’s response comes at a cost higher than Claire can imagine. Claire will be forced to determine just how far she is willing to go

Nocturne is the follow up to Christine Johnson's Claire de Lune (my review HERE) and I was looking forward to reading more about Claire and Matthew.  Unfortunately, Nocturne fell a little short for me, as I felt there really was not a lot going on at the beginning of the book.  In fact I got to page 182 and there still didn't seem to be much going on.  The tension that was almost palpable in Claire de Lune was missing this time around and to be honest, for me Claire''s character seemed to be a bit whiny.  I couldn't understand what was going on with Matthew and his seeming reluctance to have anything to do with his role as Gardien to the werewolf pack.  I also found myself a little confused over Amy, she was something of an anomaly for me - was she genuine or faking?

Now having said all this, it did hold my interest enough to keep reading and  as I got to the last 100 or so pages everything came sharply into focus and suddenly made sense.  The tension ratcheted up several notches and I was very keen to see what was going to happen.   There's a nice little message in there about how dangerous it can be to jump to conclusions (both in the book and for myself!).  So in the end I did enjoy it, and I would encourage anyone reading it to keep going - the end really does justify the reading in this case. 

Waiting on Wednesday - Double Header!! (Auguest 24th)

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 a double header!!

As many of you know, I'm a huge fan of the Vampire Academy series.  If you haven't read it, you are SO missing out...Sydney from the Vampire Academy is heading this next series off.  As for Sweetly, it is #2 in the Sister's Red series written by Jackson Pearce.  Sister's Red is still on my TBR list but I love following Jackson Pearce and her antics on the blog.  I think she should hang out with Kiersten White...what are you waiting to get your hands on?

Musings by Knitwits - Big Little Felt Universe

Summary (Amazon.ca)

Enter the big, beautiful universe of crafting with felt, with this irresistible collection featuring a super-cute Asian-inspired aesthetic. Twelve “sets” include more than 70 projects, from fruits and a felt knife for “slicing” them to a show-stopping birthday cake with decorations and detachable candles. Hundreds of photos and full-size templates make the crafting easy. With so much imagination-generating power, this book will appeal to everyone!

I first met the very talented Jeanette Lin on Etsy (one of my favourite sites) about 2 years ago while I was looking for some cool Christmas gifts.  I didn't have a lot of money and I was looking for something special (made, not store-bought) for my niece.  Jeanette specializes in felt fun toys for kids which was perfect for this active toddler who loves imaginary play.  My first choice was the Dim Sum pattern (which my niece thoroughly enjoyed) but then I kept finding more!  Ms. Lin has a serious talent for making some amazing toys.  With just a little practice, you too can recreate her gorgeous designs.  Just check out some of the pictures she has shared with me from her Etsy store - Umecrafts 

I know her shop best for the food related patterns but she has some new patterns as well.  Here's a sample -

Since I first started out as one of Umecrafts customers, I can attest that the instructions were fantastic.  She does everything step by step with photos (always important for some of us).  There is also a picture of what the finished product should look like (some of us need goals).  Jeanette's customer service skills are also stellar.  I do not know how she manages to run her business as a full-time Mom!  When I made my order, I took advantage of her multiple item sale (there's one running right now if you're interested).  Not only did she offer to burn all of the instructions onto a disc for me and mail them out, but she also sent some via email so I could start stitching right away.  When the disc did arrive, it was packaged so nicely with a hand-written thank you note and some cute little stationary goodies that were thrown in as a bonus.  Plus!  Jeanette has a sister store which sells high quality felt perfect for these projects - Lit'l Brown Bird.  You might also want to check out her Lit'l Brown Bird blog for some free patterns to try.

Now onto the book.  Big Little Felt Universe was published by Lark Crafts just a few months ago.  I stumbled upon it and contacted Jeanette to congratulate her on the title.  A big thank-you goes out to both Jeanette and Lark Crafts for sending me a copy to review!  I was so excited to receive this title in the mail!  It does not disappoint.  I was expecting some of the patterns I had seen through Umecrafts but these are all brand new patterns!  The book is divided up into sections related to different themes such as Cakes, Camping, Grill, and Things in your Purse.  There are many different patterns all with the same clear instructions and photos.  All pattern pieces are directly at the end of the sections so you don't need to go digging through the appendix.  Handy! Can you believe that there is even a felt play laptop to make?  This book is so jam-packed with fun things for your little ones to play with.  All you need is a needle, thread, some patience and a boatload of imagination.  I highly recommend this title to those of you who are looking for some projects to tackle this summer...or want to get a headstart on some original Christmas gifts.  I made them for a toddler but they are fun for any age....

On a side note, Lark Crafts has some pretty cool projects on their blog - http://www.larkcrafts.com/.  I had not been aware of this publisher before but after visiting their website, I found a few more craft titles I might pick up....

In My Mailbox - August 22nd

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.

Delirium has been on my radar for a long, long time now.  I read Before I Fall and loved Lauren Oliver's work.  She was even so kind as to correspond with me for a short time and send me some signed bookplates.  I have been waiting and waiting to make use of them and I finally can.  Despite trying to refrain from purchasing more book titles, I caved and could not pass this one up.  It was $3, hardcover at Winners...now you tell me, who's the real winner in this scenario??  I even snagged one for Curlypow...you lucky girl you...

Curlypow says: Thank you, thank you, thank you, I've wanted my own copy of this for ages :)

Divergent by Veronica Roth

Published: May 2011

Publisher: Harper Collins

Pages: 486

Copy: From Library

Summary: Goodreads

Beatrice "Tris" Prior has reached the fateful age of sixteen, the stage at which teenagers in Veronica Roth's dystopian Chicago must select which of five factions to join for life. Each faction represents a virtue: Candor, Abnegation, Dauntless, Amity, and Erudite. To the surprise of herself and her selfless Abnegation family, she chooses Dauntless, the path of courage. Her choice exposes her to the demanding, violent initiation rites of this group, but it also threatens to expose a personal secret that could place in mortal danger. Veronica Roth's young adult Divergent trilogy launches with a captivating adventure about love and loyalty playing out under most extreme circumstances.


There has been lots of talk about how good Divergent is, and I find I am in total agreement.  I loved every minute of it. I powered through it in 2 days, not wanting to put it down unless I absolutely had to - it's surprising how many places you can find yourself reading when the situation calls for it!  There is a lot of violence in Divergent.  Not the same type we see in Hunger Games though, this seems to be almost more on a personal level and it gets under the readers skin - or at least it did mine.  I actually found myself flinching or wincing a few times when Tris was on the receiving end of some wicked blows.

'I hold my breath as he turns the last knife in his hand. I see a glint in his eyes as he pulls his arm back and lets the knife fly.  It comes straight at me, spinning, blade over handle.  My body goes rigid.  This time, when it hits the board , my ear stings, and blood tickles my skin.  I touch my ear.  he nicked it.
And judging by the look he gives me, he did it on purpose.' (p164)

Tris is an amazing character. and the reader comes to know her well as she journeys through her initiation into the Dauntless faction. She's spunky and brave enough to try and overcome her fears, and often thinks of others before herself. Four, well I think I fell in love with him.  He is the supreme 'quiet' hero.  Doing everything he can to help without being overt about it.  If he wasn't taken, he might be worth joining Dauntless for :) - or may'be not.  I'm not sure I could handle jumping from a moving train. There are many secondary characters that are deftly and clearly created for us.  I wanted to smash Peter in the face and tell Al to grow a backbone.  Christina was a good friend to Tris, and her relationship with Will was very sweet.

The story progresses quickly and the excitement doesn't let up for a minute. One thing I loved was that the story never felt predictable.  I was often surprised by events and I loved this about the story.  This volume wraps up very neatly, with no nasty cliffhangers, but it is obvious that there is a lot more of the story to tell, and I for one, can't wait to see the next volume, Insurgent which is due out Spring 2012, but I can't find anything more specific than that.  If there is anyone out there who enjoys dystopian, apocolyptic fiction and you haven't read Divergent yet, I have only one thing to say to you  - WHY NOT?

PS I'm adding our ISU tag to this one, because there is so much going on with the different characters that I'm sure it would be a wonderful book to study.

Paranormalcy by Kiersten White

Published: August 2010

Publisher: HarperTeen

Pages: 335

Copy Provided by: Bought

Summary: Goodreads

Summary:

Weird as it is working for the International Paranormal Containment Agency, Evie’s always thought of herself as normal. Sure, her best friend is a mermaid, her ex-boyfriend is a faerie, she's falling for a shape-shifter, and she's the only person who can see through paranormals' glamours, but still. Normal.

Only now paranormals are dying, and Evie's dreams are filled with haunting voices and mysterious prophecies. She soon realizes that there may be a link between her abilities and the sudden rash of deaths. Not only that, but she may very well be at the center of a dark faerie prophecy promising destruction to all paranormal creatures. 

Review:

I just want to start by saying that I rarely buy books in hardcover unless I'm fairly certain that I'm going to love them.  I know it sounds awful but it's true.  The thing is I LOVED Paranormalcy.  No really, it goes up on my shelf with other series right along side with Cassandra Clare (The Mortal Instruments), Richelle Mead (Vampire Academy), Lauren Kate (Fallen), Becca Fitzpatrick (Hush, Hush) etc.  

Curlypow first read this title last fall.  You can find her review here.  She was able to take lots of quotes from the book and although I remember when they came from, I just didn't want to stop reading to write down my favourites!  I know it has taken me a really long time to catch up and read this title but I flew through it and enjoyed every minute of the ride.  I have been following Kiersten White on her author blog for about a year now and she is so freaking hilarious.  This girl is crazy and crazy is definitely the kind of personality you need to have been able to write this title.  Evie, the main character is spunky, crazy, and laugh out loud funny.  That being said, she is also lonely, vulnerable and all of the things we look for.She attracts equally odd characters such as Lend (semi-transparent guy), Reth (gorgeous, creepy fae) and has a mermaid for a best friend.  

If you are looking for a fun, entertaining read with a great story, plenty of action and mystery to boot, pick up Paranormalcy.  Kiersten has a knack for writing and having you fall right into this world where paranormal is a part of every day life.  After the dozens of reviews I have read, I was anticipating that I would enjoy the first book so I picked up the second before I finished reading!  Oh Bleep!  Time's up!  I have to get back to finishing up Supernaturally...

Friday Blog Hop - August 19th

In the spirit of the Twitter Friday Follow, the Book Blogger Hop is a place just for book bloggers and readers to connect and find new book-related blogs that we may be missing out on! This weekly BOOK PARTY is an awesome opportunity for book bloggers to connect with other book lovers, make new friends, support each other, and generally just share our love of books! It will also give blog readers a chance to find other book blogs that they may not know existed!


Each week, participating blogs are asked questions to post and answer on their websites.

This week’s question:  “What’s the LONGEST book you’ve ever read?”  Easy question - the longest book I have ever read was War and Peace, with well over 1,000 pages.  There have been some other lengthy ones, Robert Jordan and Terry Goodkind come to mind.  Long books are wonderful as you can really get to know the characters and the complexities of the story.  I haven't read a really long one in a while though, may'be I should?
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 not to only focus on new YA books but also great titles from the past.

Double Take - Vanish by Sophie Jordan

Published: Sept 2011

Publisher: HarperTeen

Pages: 304

E-Copies Provided by: NetGalley and Publisher

Summary: Goodreads

Summary:

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

Back home, Jacinda is greeted with hostility and must work to prove her loyalty for both her sake and her family’s. Among the few who will even talk to her are Cassian, the pride’s heir apparent who has always wanted her, and her sister, Tamra, who has been forever changed by a twist of fate. Jacinda knows that she should forget Will and move on—that if he managed to remember and keep his promise to find her, it would only endanger them both. Yet she clings to the hope that someday they will be together again. When the chance arrives to follow her heart, will she risk everything for love?

In bestselling author Sophie Jordan’s dramatic follow-up to Firelight, forbidden love burns brighter than ever.

Review:

I was so excited when I saw this title offered up on Net Galley.  I jumped at the chance to read it of course and I COULD NOT PUT IT DOWN!  Lucky for me, I was able to use my new Kobo touch reader which made Vanish much more portable.  (Told you it was a good idea to buy one for yourself :), didn't I? )

Firelight was a favourite for me.  (Me too!) I waited so long to read it and I certainly wasn't going to make that mistake again...Ms Jordan does not disappoint with Vanish! I can't believe that I couldn't figure out the cover of the book either...it's Tamra, Jacinda's twin sister.  Duh....on a side note, which sister do you think looks more attractive?  Jacinda (the redhead) or Tamra (the blonde)?  My vote goes to Jacinda.  Tamra's appearance could seem a bit scary to me....

Got to agree with you there Christinabean. I have to be honest, Tamra's character was a bit scary to me too.  She definitely didn't give me the warm and fuzzies!

So, Vanish starts off with a bang and it is all about action but as the novel progresses, you start to see more of Jacinda's relationships with her family and others around her.  She is definitely more vulnerable than she ever has been before.  The one thing I found to be odd (for me) was that I had a disconnect between her and Will. Sure she loves him (yada, yada yada) but I didn't feel her passion for him in this book.  Not just because he played a lesser role in this novel but I was really starting to feel for Cassian.  I'm kinda diggin' tall dark and onyx....sure she keeps saying that she doesn't really have feelings for him but with Ms. Jordan writing those steamy romance scenes, do you really believe it?  I think not.  Vanish is full of action, an intricate plotline, interesting characters and romance.  Can't wait to see what happens in book #3 - umm...think you can speed up that release date Ms. J?

You're right Christinabean, this time around I was all for Cassian - he seems much more sincere and vulnerable in Vanish.  I've always loved the idea that if you really love someone, you'll be willing to let them go, and I get that feeling with Cassian  - he'd be willing to give Jacinda up if that was what she really wants.  But, nobody seems to really know what they want yet. Will seemed a little more selfish this time, not quite as loveable. Corbin really creeped me out this time around - I don't like him at all, he gives me the heebie jeebies.  One thing I realized as I was reading was that I am having a hard time forming a mental picture of what the Draki look like in full manifest.  Ms Jordan talks about gossamer wings and scales, and somehow I just can't see it.  Doesn't stop me from enjoying the story though :).  Lot's of action and angst and an ending that leaves you desperate for #3.

Now, Vanish doesn't actually come out until September 6th but you should definitely pre-order it NOW.... I'll second that, it was a great read.

Waiting on Wednesday - Hooked by Catherine Greenman

Summary (by Goodreads):

Thea Galehouse has always known how to take care of herself. With a flighty club-owner mom and a standoffish, recovering-alcoholic dad, Thea has made her own way in her hometown of New York, attending the prestigious and competitive Stuyvesant High School. But one chat with Will, a handsome and witty senior, and she's a goner—completely hooked on him and unable to concentrate on anything else.

Always worried that she loves Will more than he loves her, Thea is pleasantly surprised when their romance weathers his move to college and Will goes out of his way to involve her in his life. But then, Thea misses a period. And that starts Thea and Will on a wild ride that neither of them could have possibly prepared for. When they decide to keep the baby, their concerned parents chip in what they can to keep Will in school and give both teenagers a comfortable place to raise their child. But when a freak accident leaves Thea shaken and threatens to upend their little family altogether, Thea is forced to turn to the last place she would have chosen for comfort: her stiff, uncompromising father.

This smart, touching first novel brims with realistic, beautifully drawn characters, and reminds us that love is never as easy or predictable as we might like it to be.

Ahhhh....unprotected sex and pre-marital pregnancy...it's been a long time since I've read one of these titles.  Just thought I'd throw in a non-supernatural/paranormal/dystopian title to remind us all that there are other 'out of this world' books...kidding....

Fantastic Fairytales - Illusions by Aprilynne Pike

Published: May 2011

Publisher: Harper Teen

Pages: 375

Copy: From Library

Summary: Goodreads

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.

Illusions is the 3rd book by Aprilynne Pike in what I thought was going to be a trilogy - but no, it turns out it's going to be a series.  How do I feel about this?  Furious, because I was really, really hoping for a happy ending, and pleased, because it means there will be more of Laurel, Tamani and David.

I really enjoyed Illusions - just as much as I enjoyed Wings and Spells - and it was great to become re-aquainted with all the characters.  Two of my favourites are Laurell's parents.  They just seem to be such likeable people.  Strict enough to ground Laurel for thoughtless behaviour, but always loving and understanding.   Chelsea,  David, Tamani - all the people we expect to see from the previous books are back again and some new ones as well.  Who exactly is Yuki, and why is she at school? I'm not telling. David and Tamani are struggling with each other this time around and I found myself unsure just exactly who I was rooting for.  They are both so lovable, in their own special ways, and both such typical boys even if one of them is a fairy. 

The story references several well known mythologies and gives them all very plausable explanations, yet this Avalon is very different from any we have read about before.  Ms Pike has woven such a complex society that it is easy to fall into the story and accept it as real.  There is excitement and mystery and some wonderful romantic angst that was all just so much fun to read. At about the half-way mark in the story it dawned on me that there was no way it was going to wrap up neatly, and of course there is an amazing cliff hanger ending that just about had me screaming with frustration.  I can't find any news about a fourth book, so I can't tell you how long we will have to wait to find out what happens, Grrrrrrr! Yet another success Ms Pike.  Please don't make us wait too long for the next one.

Cover love - Bloodrose by Andrea Cremer

Hi everyone, just had to share the new cover of Bloodrose with you, #3 in the Nighshade series by Andrea Cremer. I just bought Wolfsbane (#2) and haven't read it yet but if you are interested in getting into the series, You can read the first 7 chapters of Nightshade (#1) for free from Andrea Cremer here.  Already finished #1 and need temptation for #2?  Check out the excerpt from Wolfsbane here.  Keen on a tidbit from Bloodrose?    Check out this link.  Enjoy!

p.s. Awesome cover eh?

In My Mailbox - August 15th

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.

A few weeks ago I received a sweet little Visa card from my friends at the library as a going away gift.  I stretched this puppy as far as it would go with a few coupons from The Book Depository and bought the following (BTW, I think I'm addicted the The Book Depository now...thanks for contributing to my TBR pile everyone...)  Oh and I should mention that I've taken my name off of ALL of my holds now so all of you have a chance of being #1 unless Curlypow beat you to it...

Here's what I nabbed

WOOO HOOO!!!  Who's going to be reading ALL week long?  What's in your mailbox?

Ruby Red by Kersten Gier

Published: May 2011

Publisher: Henry Holt and Co

Pages: 330

Copy: Received for Review

Summary: Goodreads

Gwyneth Shepherd's sophisticated, beautiful cousin Charlotte has been prepared her entire life for traveling through time. But unexpectedly, it is Gwyneth, who in the middle of class takes a sudden spin to a different era!

Gwyneth must now unearth the mystery of why her mother would lie about her birth date to ward off suspicion about her ability, brush up on her history, and work with Gideon--the time traveler from a similarly gifted family that passes the gene through its male line, and whose presence becomes, in time, less insufferable and more essential. Together, Gwyneth and Gideon journey through time to discover who, in the 18th century and in contemporary London, they can trust.

What can I tell you about Ruby Red, the first in a series by Kerstin Gier?  When you're dealing with the past anything can happen - and probably already has!

Take a mysterious Count; doppelgangers; a ditsy, prophecy spouting aunt; cold, unfeeling grandmother; secretive, but loving mother; labyrinthian headquarters of a strange secret society - put them all together with a couple of time-travelling teenagers and you have a recipe for thrills and excitement.  Don't forget strange prophecies and secret powers as well, along with sword fights and carriage chases, just to stir things up a bit.

A routine trip to the past for Gywneth and Gideon results in a surprising ambush,  and so the mystery begins.  Who is trying to kill them and why, and how did anyone know they were going to be where they were at that time?  I must admit, I still have no idea, and I just have to hope that I'll find out in #2.

I loved all the characters, Gwyneth, with her no-nonsense attitude; her bff Leslie, boy crazy, but there for her when needed - particularly with a computer; Gideon, too good-looking by far - I'd like to know what is going on with him and Charlotte please; and of course Charlotte, who should be time-travelling, but isn't.  There are also creepy characters wandering around the corridors of the society, missing relatives and secrets galore. Oh and I forgot to mention, Gwyneth can see ghosts!  And the costumes -  I could picture all the beautifully described clothes in my mind so clearly - the hard part was trying to imagine todays kids looking so elegant.  If only!

Ruby Red was so much fun to read, I powered through it and now I'm waiting with baited breath for Sapphire Blue (Spring 2012) and Emerald Green (?)  Well done Ms Gier, now I know why it has been translated into 17 languages. 

Charlie Woodchuck Is a Minor Niner by Dalya Moon

Published: August 1st, 2011

E-copy: received for review

Summary: Goodreads

Charlie Woodchuck is the most minor of niners. She’s the youngest girl at Snowy Cove High School, and so clueless, she wore leg warmers and acid-wash jeans on her first day. Big mistake! Almost as big a mistake as signing up for a boys-only shop class.



Just when she thinks the first week of high school can't get any weirder, Charlie discovers she may be adopted. According to the genetics section in her Science textbook, her eyes should be blue, not brown.


Before she graduates from the ninth grade, the girl with the boy's name and the wrong eye color will have to use her detective skills to discover her true identity. She'll use power tools to build fantastical wood creations, and before the year ends, she'll have to face down the biggest bullies of all: the all-powerful members of Snowy Cove’s School Board.

Charlie Woodchuck was just so much fun to read, I loved it so much.  It is a really short, quick read, I read it in about 3 hours, but I had a smile on my face most of the time.  When I wasn't smiling my heart was aching for Charlie.

The story is set in small town USA and it is basically a regular school story, but what sets this one apart is that the year is 1988.  No cell phones or computers and lots of campy references to bands like Pink Floyd and tv shows like The Cosby Show.  I guess it says something about my age that I remember them very clearly.

Charlaine, 'Charlie', is such a wonderful character.  With a birthday in December, she is the youngest kid in the new gr 9 class.  She has an absolute heart of gold and I just wanted to hug her. Talk about rooting for the underdog - I loved that she was not afraid to speak her mind and stick up for those being bullied. She is also struggling with accepting the idea that she has probably been adopted.  Her parents are just wonderful, and while I didn't always agree with the way they answered Charlie's questions, they were always caring and supportive.  Stacy and Kendra, Charlie's friends at school were so different and yet both appealing in their own way.  Stacy is a real drama queen and Kendra is one of the 'smart' girls, but both are good friends to Charlie.  On the boys side, Otter, Ross and Sky were so well written I kept comparing them to friends of mine when I was that age.

'Charlie Woodchuck is a Minor Niner' is a perfect middle-grade novel that introduces the idea that it is ok sometimes to fight for change, and you'll laugh and cry with Charlie and her friends as they navigate their way through high school and the pitfalls of grade 9.  Lots of fun and well worth the read.

Friday Blog Hop - August 12th

In the spirit of the Twitter Friday Follow, the Book Blogger Hop is a place just for book bloggers and readers to connect and find new book-related blogs that we may be missing out on! This weekly BOOK PARTY is an awesome opportunity for book bloggers to connect with other book lovers, make new friends, support each other, and generally just share our love of books! It will also give blog readers a chance to find other book blogs that they may not know existed!

Each week, participating blogs are asked questions to post and answer on their websites.

This week’s question – “Let’s talk crazy book titles! Highlight one or two (or as many as you like!) titles in your personal collection that have the most interesting titles! If you can’t find any, feel free to find one on the internet!”


Hmm....this is a toughie for me. I think that a lot of the titles in my collection have much to do with the pictures on the cover (yes, once again, such a cover snob).  They mean so much more when you see the title with the picture for meaning - 

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 not to only focus on new YA books but also great titles from the past.

Fury by Elizabeth Miles

Published: August 2011

Publisher: Simon Pulse

Pages: 352

Copy Provided by: NetGalley and Simon and Shuster Canada

Summary: Goodreads

Summary:

It’s winter break in Ascension, Maine. The snow is falling and everything looks pristine and peaceful. But not all is as it seems...

Between cozy traditions and parties with her friends, Emily loves the holidays. And this year’s even better--the guy she’s been into for months is finally noticing her. But Em knows if she starts things with him, there’s no turning back. Because his girlfriend is Em’s best friend.

On the other side of town, Chase is having problems of his own. The stress of his home life is starting to take its toll, and his social life is unraveling. But that’s nothing compared to what’s really haunting him. Chase has done something cruel...something the perfect guy he pretends to be would never do. And it’s only a matter of time before he’s exposed.

In Ascension, mistakes can be deadly. And three girls—three beautiful, mysterious girls—are here to choose who will pay.


Em and Chase have been chosen.

Review:
I have read quite a few reviews of this title recently and I think that either you will love it or hate it.  Some people found it to be lacking but to be honest, I really enjoyed it.  I felt it was a bit slow to start but by page 80, I was definitely hooked and I just kept reading and reading.  Reading the summary, you get the impression that this book is a bit about revenge but what was interesting for me is that the revenge wasn't taken by the person who felt wronged.  I don't want to give anything away but the book took an interesting twist.  There were a few things that took me by surprise and I felt my emotions really surfacing.

I think a lot of teenage girls will identify with Em and her best friend.  There are certain lines you don't cross and running around with your best friend's boyfriend is one of them.  For any of you ladies who have had this happen, it is devastating to the ego and really makes you question your friendships and trust.  My heartstrings tugged when I read more and more about Em's situation and I kept wanting to yell out "What are you thinking???!!  Don't do that!!@!"

Chase's situation was a little more complicated and I couldn't really identify with it as well.  I didn't agree with the way he acted and Ms. Miles tried to make you understand why he did what he did but still, it wasn't very nice.  I should mention on a side note that there is swearing throughout the book, particularly in the last 1/3.  It would be suitable for teens around 16+ in my opinion due to content and language.

I love scary, creepy stories and this fit the bill.  Several times I was reading late at night.  One scene in particular was pretty creepy.  It actually had me wanting to turn on the lights!  I stuck it out in the dark with my flashlight though because I wanted to find out how it ended.  I'm glad I did!  It was well worth the read.  Thank you to Net Galley and Simon and Schuster Canada for this title!

(One thing that I questioned about this book were the consequences of Em and Chase's actions.  Did the punishment really fit the crime?  I'd love to hear your opinions if you have read this book.)

Waiting on Wednesday - Summer and the City by Candace Bushnell

Summary (by Goodreads)

Summer is a magical time in New York City and Carrie is in love with all of it—the crazy characters in her neighborhood, the vintage-clothing boutiques, the wild parties, and the glamorous man who has swept her off her feet. Best of all, she's finally in a real writing class, taking her first steps toward fulfilling her dream.

This sequel to The Carrie Diaries brings surprising revelations as Carrie learns to navigate her way around the Big Apple, going from being a country "sparrow"—as Samantha Jones dubs her—to the person she always wanted to be. But as it becomes increasingly difficult to reconcile her past with her future, Carrie realizes that making it in New York is much more complicated than she ever imagined.

With her signature wit and sparkling humor, Candace Bushnell reveals the irresistible story of how Carrie met Samantha and Miranda, and what turned a small-town girl into one of New York City's most unforgettable icons, Carrie Bradshaw.

This title is on my TBR list and seems like a great summer read.  I loved Sex and the City and have been wanting to read The Carrie Diaries for awhile now....another great summer read...maybe I'll have to stop at Chapters on my way to the cabin....

Let's Hear It for the Boys - The Berlin Boxing Club by Robert Sharenow

Published: April 2011
Publisher: Harper Collins
Pages: 416
Copy: Received for review
Summary: Goodreads

Fourteen-year-old Karl Stern has never thought of himself as a Jew. But to the bullies at his school in Naziera Berlin, it doesn't matter that Karl has never set foot in a synagogue or that his family doesn't practice religion. Demoralized by relentless attacks on a heritage he doesn't accept as his own, Karl longs to prove his worth to everyone around him.



So when Max Schmeling, champion boxer and German national hero, makes a deal with Karl's father to give Karl boxing lessons, Karl sees it as the perfect chance to reinvent himself. A skilled cartoonist, Karl has never had an interest in boxing, but as Max becomes the mentor Karl never had, Karl soon finds both his boxing skills and his art flourishing.


But when Nazi violence against Jews escalates, Karl must take on a new role: protector of his family. Karl longs to ask his new mentor for help, but with Max's fame growing, he is forced to associate with Hitler and other Nazi elites, leaving Karl to wonder where his hero's sympathies truly lie. Can Karl balance his dream of boxing greatness with his obligation to keep his family out of harm's way?

With The Berlin Boxing Club, Robert Sharenow has written a poignant and moving story about what it was like for a teenage boy, who happenes to be Jewish, to survive in Nazi Germany just prior to WWII.  Karl Stern is Jewish by birth, but he and his family are not practising Jews.  Karl doesn't even look like a Jew, but these facts are irrelevant.  Because of his birth, Karl has to live under a cloud and there is nothing he can do about it.

Karl is lucky enough to meet his hero, boxing champion Max Schmeling, and is introduced to the fighters at Max's boxing studio. His transition from skinny 14 yr old to a muscled and fit 17 yr old is interesting to watch. Karl is taught how to fight and takes part in some tournaments, but despite being a good fighter, he is never able to leave behind his heritage. An act of spite during one of these tournaments reveals Karl as a Jew and he is no longer able to fight.  Karl has become disillusioned with his hero Max, but after the events of Kristallnacht, when there were huge riots against the Jews, he has no option but to contact Max and ask for his help.

'I had plenty to be mad about.  I was a Jew living in Nazi Germany.  I had been kicked out of school and lost my girlfriend.  My father had been denied any chance at a legitimate livelihood, and our family had been evicted from our home.  I was living in a damp basement beneath my parents and sister, who had given up all sense of privacy, living in one room divided by bed sheets.  My "hero" Max had disappeared to America to chase fights with Joe Louis and Jimmy Braddock.  And my favorite uncle had just died in a prison camp, simply because he was a Red or a Jew or both.' (242)

This paragraph very neatly sums up Karl's life at the age of 16. Events are out of his control and he is struggling with his identity.  Sharenow manages to convey, with sympathy and compassion, Karl's feelings of  hopelessness and rage over the unfairness of life and his inabililty to do anything to help his family. It is easy to understand where Karl's anger comes from and why. The use of Karl's cartoons throughout the book help to illustrate his frustations, and make the story just a little different than the norm.

The Berlin Boxing Club is loosely based on the fact that Max Scmelling is known to have helped two Jewish boys on Kristallnacht, and this makes the events even more tragic.  It is a beautifully written story of courage and perseverance during terrible times, and reminds us that even the unlikeliest people can become heros.  Remember this one when ISU time rolls around.