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Disclaimer: I received this book from BEA 2013 for myself and to give it an honest opinion.
Faking It
Losing it #2
Author: Cat Carmack
Paperback
Pages: 304
Published: June 4, 2013
Publisher: William Morrow & Company
Overview:
Mackenzie “Max” Miller has a problem. Her parents have arrived in town for a surprise visit, and if they see her dyed hair, tattoos, and piercings, they just might disown her. Even worse, they’re expecting to meet a nice, wholesome boyfriend, not a guy named Mace who has a neck tattoo and plays in a band. All her lies are about to come crashing down around her, but then she meets Cade.
Cade moved to Philadelphia to act and to leave his problems behind in Texas. So far though, he’s kept the problems and had very little opportunity to take the stage. When Max approaches him in a coffee shop with a crazy request to pretend to be her boyfriend, he agrees to play the part. But when Cade plays the role a little too well, they’re forced to keep the ruse going. And the more they fake the relationship, the more real it begins to feel.
My Take:
Oh my gosh!! I have never heard of Cora Carmack until I attended the BEA 2013 in NYC! I got her autographed for this book and was thrilled. Once I saw the book was about (the cover was eye candy), I knew I had to get it. The line was long but it was so worth it! I did start this book on my way home from NYC to Chicago as I could not put it down. It took me about two days to read and let me say wow!!! (yeah I finally get around to writing a review!...eeps)
I have not read the first book so I jumped into the second book and it was awesome. You can still follow along but I am curious of the first book. Anyways onwards to the review...
Basically the book is based on Cade Winston who was mentioned in the first book. He is living in Philadeplina and finds himself at odds end with life and love. From what I could tell that he was very into Bliss and sadly it did not work out. To be let down is always a bummer. You could the emotions from Cade which I enjoyed. Bliss invites Cade to Thanksgiving dinner but Cade is not up for it. I would be feeling the same way, wouldn't you? Anyways Cade tells Bliss he's heading home for Thanksgiving as Bliss accepts that even though Cade isn't really going home. Meanwhile, Max comes in with her boyfriend who she is dating at the coffee shop as she gets a phone call from her parents who are going to meet her there.
Pure shock and panic hits Max! She then tells her boyfriend, Mace to just leave because she knows her parents will not like him at all and disown her. Cade is watching all of the action of Max and Mace, after Bliss and her boyfriend depart. Max manages to spy Cade and talks him into acting as her boyfriend as her parents arrive. Cade agrees as he does such an excellent job charming Max's parents. Her parents adore Cade. They get to hang out together for 24 hours. After the 24 hours are done, they go their separate ways but somehow they can't get each other off their minds. They do see each other time to time in certain places as I loved how they react to each other in those events. It's a combination of soft and hard.
Cade gets a more of an understanding how Max is when she's with her family and how she is alone. Max learns more about herself when she is with Cade. Eventually tells her parents of her music and tattoos which I think is powerful thing to do. Even Max helps Cade with his pain too. There is some angst between them and drama but that what makes the book great too. Cora writes amazing characters with their point of views into a plot that will take you on a rollar coaster ride!
Will Cade and Max actually be together or not? Will Max parents find out? What will happen? I totally recommend this book! It made me laugh, smile and gasp! The interaction between Cade and Max is a combination of humor, heat, passion and softness. They click with each other so well when they want to. They are opposites. You so need to get this book and read it. You will fall in love with the characters and swoon at Cade and root for Max! I look forward to reading more of the lovely Cora Carmack!!
Story: A
Cover: A
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Disclaimer: I received this ebook from a book blog tour to read to give it an honest opinion!
Fields of Elysium
Fields of Elysium #1
Author: A.B. Whelan
Pages: 436
Format: eBook
Published: December 12, 2012
Publisher: InMotion Captiol
Overview:
Small town girl, Molly Bennett, moves to Los Angeles where she becomes an outsider while attending Beverly Hills High School. It seems life cannot be any more dreadful. Then one day after school, something magical happens. On a secluded hike in the Hollywood Hills, Molly chases her disobedient mutt and only friend into a hidden cavern. She stumbles upon a strange glimmering gateway that transports her to Arkana, a planet that is the cradle of an advanced human race. There, teenagers navigate amazing flying vehicles, compete in perilous games for glory, and possess supernatural powers. While Molly tries to wrap her mind around this unbelievable discovery, she meets the alluring and mysterious Victor Sorren. He is a Sentinel Apprentice, whose hatred toward people from Earth is beyond understanding. Yet every time Victor unpredictably saves Molly's life, his heart draws closer to hers, no matter how much he tries to fight against it. It further complicates things that their growing friendship is strictly forbidden. Earth people are prohibited in Arkana, yet Molly continues to cross through the portal to Arkana to see Victor. Torn between their double lives, they go down a dangerous path, from where there is no return and multiple endings.
My Take
The cover is breathtaking! Sadly I had the ebook but I wish I had a paperback copy of this book. So pretty! The cover caught my eye and then I read the description of what the book was about as my brain told me to read it. So I did!
As I began this book, I was on an adventure with Molly as she goes hiking and finds a gateway that takes her to a new world! As she explores this new world, she meets some of the people that live there. Molly meets Victor and Weston. Weston is nice to her as Victor is not so nice and wants her gone. Molly likes them both but the attraction is stronger to Victor than Weston. Drama and action is shown throughout the book as well as emotions riding high here and there for some. Will sparks fly between Victor and Molly? You need to read to find out!
The world that Molly explores is amazing. The people, the history and creatures are just fascinating. The time on Arkana moves quicker than it does on Earth. Molly gets used to the time change and all. It's a magical and fascinating world. I would love to visit it with a nice tour guide. Since the technology was unique, I'm going to post a line from page 83 "As I mentioned it is a special crystal. It collects solar energy that is subjected to pressure within the crystal and our people utilize the power." I thought this was neat! In this world they seem to use the resources very well. There's a few other fun, clean technology aspects in this book that I enjoyed as well. It was very cool!
I think Molly grows a bit in this book. She learns to keep Arkana a secret from her parents and everyone else which is a tough thing to do. Molly also is the type of girl who stands up for what she believes in as you will see in this story. She treats everyone nicely and does not pass judgement either. I also thing Molly is a strong character. She deals with drama at high school and learns to deal with it as best as she can.
What about Victor? He goes through a change as well. He is the tough guy in the book as he then meets Molly something changes. He learns to open up and let go of hate. His story is told in this book as well. What you learn about Victor makes you want to root for him and Molly to be together. I love how Victor is protective of Molly at times but runs hot and cold with her too.
I look forward to book 2 when it comes! If you are looking for a new adventure to go on, then this book is for you! Check it out. You will gasp and squeal when you read it! I know I did. Thanks for AB Whelan for writing this book and I look forward to more!
Cover: A
Story: B
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Disclaimer: I bought this book to read to give it an honest opinion!
The Name of the Star
Shades of London #1
Author: Maureen Johnson
Paperback
Pages:400
Published: October 2, 2012
Publisher: Speak
Overview:
The day that Louisiana teenager Rory Deveaux arrives in London to start a new life at boarding school is also the day a series of brutal murders breaks out over the city, killings mimicking the horrific Jack the Ripper spree of more than a century ago. Soon "Rippermania" takes hold of modern-day London, and the police are left with few leads and no witnesses. Except one. Rory spotted the man police believe to be the prime suspect. But she is the only one who saw him--the only one who can see him. And now Rory has become his next target. In this edge-of-your-seat thriller, full of suspense, humor, and romance, Rory will learn the truth about the secret ghost police of London and discover her own shocking abilities.
My Take:
I finally got around to this book! The entire book was quite an interesting read. The way the images just flew off the page was very vivid and great. I could see and feel what was going on. The story kept on going at a great pace. It was interesting to get to know the characters a bit here! A few reasons I grabbed this book was it was a young adult paranormal, takes place in England, Jack the Ripper, and ghosts! Who could not resist those reasons?
The main character is Rory who goes off to school to London. It takes her a while to adjust to the school and roommate. Once all settled in, the The Ripper mania continues to explode. The Cops are on the lookout of what is going to happen next? Can they solve this mystery?
Rory thinks she saw something related to the "Ripper" mania and reports it to the cops. Somehow the cops who get involved with Rory are rather unique cops and the next you know Rory is thrown into the world of ghosts! This was a lot for her to take in. Will Rory be the next victim? Will Rory figure out who it is? What will happen?
There were a few lines in the book that I enjoyed such as: "You told him I had period fever" I replied. "There's no such thing as period fever." This made me laugh. I loved it!
Another line is:
"Fear can't hurt you," she said. "When it washes over you, give it no power. It's a snake with no venom. Remember that. That knowledge can save you." This made me think of power. Knowledge is power!
Go ahead and pick up this read today! I will be getting book two soon! I need to see what happens to Rory!
Story: B
Cover: A
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Disclaimer: I bought this book to read to give it an honest opinion!
Easy
Author: Tammara Webber
Format: Paperback
Pages: 310
Published: November 6, 2012
Publisher: Berkley Trade
Overview:
He watched her, but never knew her. Until thanks to a chance encounter, he became her savior…
The attraction between them was undeniable. Yet the past he’d worked so hard to overcome, and the future she’d put so much faith in, threatened to tear them apart.
Only together could they fight the pain and guilt, face the truth—and find the unexpected power of love.
My Take
Oh my gosh!! I literally could not put this book down. Once I started I could not stop. I wanted more of what was going to happen Jacqueline. Wow!! Okay let me compose my thoughts here.
stretches her fingers out.....and go!
It started off with such a powerful and emotional scene! I was shocked, worried and my heart fell to my stomach. I do have to give the author amazing props to write such a scene. To handle this type of topic. Rape isn't an easy topic to write about. I think it showed great emotion behind now and after of this topic. Plus at the end of the book, the author gives out some great information.
The exchange between Jacqueline and Lucas was amazing. They way they had the playful banter between emails and a bit in person was nice and sweet. They just had a wonderful time together. Lucas comes off as a bad boy type of guy from the way he looks but he's really a great guy! Plus that he rides a motorcycle is pretty hot too! I loved this type of character. There were so many good moments between Lucas and Jacqueline! If you like a great story with romance and friendship and emotions hitting you, then this book is for you!!
It was soooo powerful and wholesome. So amazing. I cannot express how great this book is! You HAVE to read it. It give such an amazing range of emotions. I read this book literally in 3 hours I believe while I was killing time at the airport and then on my flight home. It was just such an amazing read.
The cover is amazing too! I love how simple it is and yet shows you a sweet, tender embrace.
I will read more from this author! Thank you writing this amazing story, Tammara!
Story: A
Cover: A
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Clockwise (Clockwise 1)
Author: Elle Strauss
Format: eBook
Pages: 290
Published: November 21, 2011
Publisher: ESB Publishing
Overview
Casey Donovan has issues: hair, height and uncontrollable trips to the 19th century! And now this—she’s accidentally taken Nate Mackenzie, the cutest boy in the school, back in time. Awkward.
Protocol pressures her to tell their 1860 hosts that he is her brother and when Casey finds she has a handsome, wealthy (and unwanted) suitor, something changes in Nate. Are those romantic sparks or is it just “brotherly” protectiveness?
When they return to the present, things go back to the way they were before: Casey parked on the bottom of the rung of the social ladder and Nate perched high on the very the top. Except this time her heart is broken. Plus, her best friend is mad, her parents are split up, and her younger brother gets escorted home by the police. The only thing that could make life worse is if, by some strange twist of fate, she took Nate back to the past again.
Which of course, she does.
My Take
Casey is quite a character in this book. She time travels since she was 9 years old and has adjusted to it. She adjusts her time between high school, home life, social life and time traveling. She is a very down to earth character and is quite lovable. She is also thinks quickly on her feet given the situations she gets in.
So she gets ready to time travel and somehow ends up taking Nate with her! Well this was a first time and was quite a shock! She of course has a crush on Nate as well. I think it's more of a love and dislike relationship with Nate due to the fact that Nate's girlfriend so does not like Casey. Anyways, Nate at first thinks it's a prank and does not believe it's 1860. Once reality hits Nate, he's shocked and curious at the same time. I think he realizes he had to depend on Casey and the way she took gumption of the situation was great. Do they become friends or enemies when they go back to the normal time? You must read this book to find out.
I love love love the history aspect of this! It allows you to understand history more of how United States was back in 1860! You get a peek of farm life, family life, racism, no transportation and even a bit of sexism pops up. All of these aspects you see in the book and really gives you a sense of it was back in 1860. I enjoyed it!
There are a few other surprises in the book related to the character Samuel which caught me off guard! You'll like this little surprise. The other characters in the book help the story along perfectly. The story is well written and you won't regret reading this book today. If you are looking for something simple and fun to read then this book is for you. I liked it because it was time traveling, adventure, friendship, historical and even perhaps a bit of romance?
Story: A
Cover:B
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Disclaimer: I given both books to read by the author in exchange for an honest review and opinion!
Heart Waves (Heart Waves #1)
by Danielle Sibarium
Paperback
251 pages
Published June 1st 2012 by KFR Communications
Overview:
Jenna Kingsley has a gift. She knows things. With a simple touch she can pick up personal information from jewelry or objects. While at a neighbor’s party, a voice mesmerizes her. Jenna is momentarily frozen as a ring is placed in her hand. White electricity surges through her and a dire prediction is made. “It’s like Romeo and Juliet. You’re going to break my heart.”
From the moment they meet Jenna is enchanted and entranced with Reece Walton. She’s thrilled to learn he’s spending the summer two houses away from hers. Every moment they spend together is magical. But she can’t get the prediction out of her mind. As the summer draws to a close and secrets are revealed, can Jenna get past the fear of being left with a broken heart to live in the moment with Reece or will her fear of being hurt fulfill the prophecy?
My Review:
I loved the cover of this book! It catches your eye nicely and the title is lovely as well. If you love cool covers, then you gotta get this book.
Meanwhile the story was great. The pace and writing was an easy and superb read! If you like quick reads, then you should get this book. The relationship of Jenna and Reece takes you on a ride. I liked how Reece and Jenna met at a party and from there many things happen. The story was all based on how their relationship is set up which I loved. To see it grow a bit by bit as it was neat to see.
Reece is an adorable guy and protective of Jenna as well which I liked but I also did think at times he was a bit too overprotective. Why was her overprotective? Was he hiding something? The relationship between Jenna and Reece was sweet to me.
Through the book, the supernatural element isn't so much involved which bummed me out a tiny bit. It mostly focused on relationship and trust.
The story is light, easy and stays with you very well. It will charm you and make you smile along with hoping for all the best. It's a sweet story but I think it does let your mind ask questions at times too! It's a great book for all ages to read. It took me about a day and half to read it!
I look forward to the sequel!! I so cannot wait. Go get your copy today and be swept away by HEART WAVES.
Cover: A
Story: B
Breaking Waves (Heart Waves #2)
Author: Danielle Sibarium
Paperback
Published: January 10, 2013
KFR Communications
Overview:
From the moment they met, Jenna knew Reece would break her heart, but she never dreamed it would happen like this. Jenna is left shattered and broken. When life becomes too painful to deal with and she feels completely alone, there’s only one person to help her pick up the pieces and move on. The one person she doesn’t want to turn to. The one person she promised to stay away from. Tyler.
Can Jenna put aside everything she knows about him and let Tyler help heal her broken heart?
My Take:
The sequel to Heart Waves is amazing! I loved this story a great deal. It picks up where the first book was. Jenna is still trying to deal with the fact that Reece is gone. She does not want to deal with anything. Reece was her Romeo and it was gone and her heart was hurting. I felt the pain and emotions from Jenna which made me wish she could get over it.
Jenna ends up connecting with Tyler who helps her. He understands pain and loneliness very well. He himself has been in that situation and was a friend to Reece as he misses him too. There's more to him than meets the eye which I loved. Tyler seems like the bad boy type which is interesting. Tyler takes a while to crack open to Jenna which I loved how she learns more about him.
The romance between the two seems to sprout a bit which I liked more than when Jenna was with Reece for some reason. Maybe it was because that they were both dealing with grief and loneliness. Emotions run high but the two of them sparked each other with honesty in a way.
There were questions in my mind of what exactly happened with Reece and how does Tyler fit in? Was it that big of a crime to put Jenna in danger? Why did Reece want Tyler to stay away? All these questions were swarming in my head from book one and into this book. It made me wonder if there's a book three in the works or not? I hope so because I so want to know the answers to my questions!
The author did a fantastic job with this story. If you like adventure, friendship, and love, then this book should be on your shelf. Also the cover is stunning by the way as the colors pop out at you. So pretty!
Cover: A
Story: A
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Disclaimer: I bought this book to read to give it an honest opinion!
Five Flavors of Dumb
Author: Antony John
Pages:338
Paperback
November 11, 2010
Publisher: Dial
Overview
The Challenge: Piper has one month to get the rock band Dumb a paying gig.
The Deal: If she does it, Piper will become the band's manager and get her share of the profits.
The Catch: How can Piper possibly manage one egomaniacal pretty boy, one talentless piece of eye candy, one crush, one silent rocker, and one angry girl? And how can she do it when she's deaf?
Piper can't hear Dumb's music, but with growing self-confidence, a budding romance, and a new understanding of the decision her family made to buy a cochlear implant for her deaf baby sister, she discovers her own inner rock star and what it truly means to be a flavor of Dumb.
My Take
The book was great. It was fun, honest, and had some clever moments in the story that made me squeal! I could feel Piper's emotions from when she was dealing with the band and with her family. I could identify with Piper on some of the things she goes through when I was in high school. She is such a tough cookie who takes on such a challenge considering she's deaf. I liked that about her. Piper works hard and finds herself speaking up more than she has before. She also makes friends with some of the band members.
This story also covers music and how can a high school band make it to getting known. I loved how the band has its up and downs in various events. It seemed to me it was all about self discovery for each character in this book which I loved. Each character realizes something and brings the whole story together.
I loved how certain types of music is mentioned in the book and that Piper's dad joins in on the music scene just a bit. It gives you an idea how teens relate to music. I loved how Piper learns a bit of the music scene as well. Music had its way in this book for so many people. It made some relate to each other and some did not.
There is a bit of love interest with Piper and another character called Ed which was cute. That all it seemed to me was cute. I liked how Ed finally tells Piper that he's crushing on her big time. It takes guts to tell someone that! It was a cute romance.
If you are looking for something to read then this book is for you! Give it a shot.
Cover: A
Story: B
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Disclaimer: I bought this ebook to read to give it an honest opinion!
Dying To Forget (The Station #1)
Author: Trish Marie Dawson
Edition: Kindle
143 Pages
Published: August 3, 2012
Overview
"...With trembling fingers, I reach up and touch the hard and chiseled contours of his chest while Ryan's large and strong hands roam over my entire body, feeling and squeezing everything. I've never been touched like this before and my insides are starting to freak out.
"I want you, Piper," he murmurs into my neck.
My mouth drops open in surprise and even though my brain seems to be telling me to jump and run out of the room, I’m unable to move, stuck firmly to the same place on the mattress. With my nerves on high alert, I glance at the door repeatedly, sure that someone will come bursting through it at any second but the steady thumping of the music downstairs reminds me that no one can hear what is happening in this room. No one cares that Ryan Burke took me, of all people, into a bedroom. That realization hits me suddenly. Oh. My. God. What am I doing here?"
Piper Willow dies the summer after her high school graduation but she doesn’t make it to Heaven or Hell…instead she finds herself in a spiritual terminal called the Station. She’s given only two choices: Return to Earth as the subconscious for a person in need of some outside assistance, or move on and spend an eternity lost in her own sorrow and pain.
Does Piper have what it takes to save a life - to be the nagging voice inside someone else’s head - or will she fail and end up lost and tormented in limbo...forever?
My Take
This story was quick for me but I enjoyed it a great deal. This lovely gem covered some major issues that teens go through but the main issue that pops up is suicide. This is a tough subject to cover but the author handles it with great care. I did think how or what could drive someone to consider suicide while reading this story but I was mostly focused on the main character Piper and her journey.
Piper is the main character who is quite an a regular teen but with issues. The things she goes through in life makes her unique and a tough cookie, but sadly Piper decides to puts her flame out. It was a heart wrenching decision. Things change once Piper ends up at the Station. I liked this concept a great deal! To have another place to go other than heaven or hell is quite interesting to me. I'm sure the concept has been done but I think the way Trish explains what The Station is makes you think there is another chance to be happy with aspiration. So what choice does Piper make? Does she go to earth as a subconscious for a person who needs help or does she spend an eternity lost in her pain? The decision she makes is quite cool.
The story was so good that I'm not giving you the whole thing because I WANT you to go get it and read it! Although I must say there Piper's mentor who seems to be interesting. I am curious of his story. I wonder if the author will do his story but back to this book! One other character that popped out at me was Sloan and it was quite fascinating!! Each page of the story was filled with such wonderful writing as it held my attention in the late hours of when I was reading! I got lost in this story and finished it. The ending left me wanting more! It was a cliffhanger! It was amazing. I want more and I will have more of this Piper's story.
The cover is stunning. It popped out at me when I was browsing online. I want those boots from the cover. Someone get them for me? The cover and the synopsis sealed the deal for me so I had to purchase this book for my iPad. I'm so glad I did. I would have loved to have a paper copy of the book as well. I enjoy having both copies: paper and electronic. :)
Cover: A
Story: A
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After Hello
Author: Lisa Mangum
Hardcover
Pages: 272
September 4, 2012
Shadow Mountain
Overview:
What if the first day of your relationship was the only day you had?
Seventeen-year-old Sara is a seeker. She’s always on the lookout for the perfect moment to capture with her ever-present, point-and-shoot camera, especially on her first trip to New York City.
Sam is a finder. He has a knack for finding what other people can’t—a first-edition book or the last two tickets to a sold-out Broadway show. In New York, there is always something interesting to find.
When Sam and Sara’s paths cross, neither one of them is prepared for what they will find out about each other—and about themselves when they form an unlikely partnership in search of a seemingly elusive work of art. They have one day to find the impossible. Fate brought their talents together, but what happens when time runs out? Will love be able to overcome fate?
My Take:
The cover caught my eye of this little gem and immediately grabbed it! I read the cover bit and figured this book was for me. I was right! How I liked this story. It was unique and fresh.
The story takes place in New York which made me feel like I was on an adventure with Sam and Sara. The time frame was 24 hours which seemed longer to me. Sara loves the camera and uses it to capture those unique moments. So when she's in NY she couldn't pass the thought of not using her camera and manages to snap shot Sam who came out of a cafe. Something about him captured her attention.
Sam notice her noticing him. Sara follows him as then they engage in a conversation which led to one thing and another of learning a bit about each other. Their conversation connection was quite unique and fun. Of course in their conversation, they talk of things that are dear to them. Some of the things they mention is a tough thing for them to chat about but in a way I think it helps them to talk to someone about these topics rather than keeping it all bottled up.
Somehow Sam gets Sara involved with his and brother's work as it turns into a mission looking for something unique. Sam helps her. Does she succeed in her mission or not? Do sparks go flying between Sam and Sara while they chat? I think there's a great friendship there and that it could spin into something more. Read the book to find out. I think the chemistry between the two is great.
The story is written from both: Sam and Sara's perspective. I love how the chapters tell you who the perspective is. It's a nice change of pace.
Cover Rating: A
Story Rating: B
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Between the Lines
Author: Jodi Picoult & Samantha van Leer
Hardcover
Pages: 358
Published: June 26, 2012
Simon Pulse
Overview:
Delilah is a bit of a loner who prefers spending her time in the school library with her head in a book—one book in particular. Between the Lines may be a fairy tale, but it feels real. Prince Oliver is brave, adventurous, and loving. He really speaks to Delilah.
And then one day Oliver actually speaks to her. Turns out, Oliver is more than a one-dimensional storybook prince. He’s a restless teen who feels trapped by his literary existence and hates that his entire life is predetermined. He’s sure there’s more for him out there in the real world, and Delilah might just be his key to freedom.
Delilah and Oliver work together to attempt to get Oliver out of his book, a challenging task that forces them to examine their perceptions of fate, the world, and their places in it. And as their attraction to each other grows along the way, a romance blossoms that is anything but a fairy tale.
My Review:
I grabbed this book as the title caught my attention. I read the the tidbit about what the book was and decided to give it a go. Well when I started it was okay but when I got further into the story, it seemed slow and a bit confusing from the different point of views that were going on. Each chapter or sub chapter would be from the charter's point of view (mostly Delilah's or Oliver's). You would have to concentrate a bit on the story to keep up with it.
Fairy tale story with a modern twist. Of course this story has a prince, love, friends, creatures..the usual aspects that fairy tales consist of. Then there's the heartbreaking part of losing someone. The modern twist is at the end of the book which I thought was pretty amazing!
The fun thing about this book was the sketches. I loved seeing the sketches with the story in this book. You could actually get a feel for what was going on better.
The two characters that are mentioned in this book mostly is Oliver and Delilah. Delilah is a gal who is a loner and loves to read. She wants to get lost in a story and not deal with real life. What teenager wants to get lost in a different world at times? Oliver is a character in the book who wants not to be in a book anymore. He is curious of what is outside of this story and book. He wants to be free. Freedom is something everyone treasures and dares to be explored! Delilah identifies with Oliver and see him as a friend. They both are likable characters. Who could not like them? I thought they were a good match for each other.
So one day Oliver ends up trying to talk to Delilah and she hears him! Their worlds collide as they chat to one another. Can you imagine a book talking to you one day? This was pretty neat. They both like each other and yet the mission was to figure out how to get Oliver out of the book! I liked how they come up with hypothesis and then test them out! Some go well and some do not. Each one is an adventure. At times both Oliver and Delilah get frustrated in dealing with figuring things out along with reality that hits them in their own worlds but they still try to figure out a way. Will they succeed in getting Oliver out of the book?
As I mentioned up above, it was kind of confusing for me a bit on what was going on and seemed a bit slow. It was an okay story. To those who like fairy tales, I'd give it a shot if you are into that genre! I'm glad I read it just to try something different and new.
Cover Rating: B
Story Rating: C
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Ghost Town: Saranormal #1
Author: Phoebe Rivers
Page: 160
Published date: May 1, 2012
Publisher: Simon Spotlight
Series: Yes
Style: Paperback
Overview:
Sara Collins is a normal twelve-year-old girl with an abnormal secret: She is psychic. She’s had her abilities for as long as she can remember, but she doesn’t like to talk about them. She hopes that if she ignores them, they might go away. Sara wants nothing more than to have a normal life, and to her, “normal” doesn’t include anything paranormal.
But Sara’s life is about to be turned upside down, because she’s moving across the country with her dad to an old shore town in New Jersey. A shore town with a lot of history…and more than its fair share of ghosts roaming around. As Sara tries to settle into her new home, she discovers that for the first time, the ghosts around her can communicate with her. One ghost in particular desperately needs something from her and won’t leave her alone. Sara wants to help, but she’s scared. Can Sara put her fear aside and help the spirit? Will doing so put her in jeopardy?
My Take
So I picked this book up in the children's section of a bookstore while my kids were exploring the store at the time. The book caught my eye and made me think this is something I would so read when I was younger.
It took me about a day and half to read this book. As the overview mentions up above Sara is heading into a new town which is an older town and she isn't too keen on being there since she has the ability to be psychic and see ghosts. So she tries to not deal with her ability while being in the new town and so wants to be normal.
Sara ends up meeting another girl who she becomes friends with. She still haven't told anyone of her gift. Of course there is the kooky psychic lady that lives near by Sara and her dad which Sara is not sure what to make of the lady. Somehow while being in this town, she then somehow gets tangled in with a ghost who wanted her to do something. Does Sara eventually help the ghost or does she ignore her gift?
This book is great for elementary children and up! The cover is rather cute and catches the eye rather nicely. Another great find in books!
Cover Rating: A
Story Rating: A
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Disclaimer: I given this book by the author read in an exchange for an honest opinion and review!
Flamethroat: Fire Mage Book 2
Author: Kate Bloomfield
Publisher: Amazon
Published Date: July 28, 2012
Edition: Kindle Ebook
Pages: 300
Overview:
Avalon Redding has returned to Mortlock to find her home destroyed, and her family missing. They have been taken by 'The Realm' for harboring an illegal human, Avalon's sister.
Desperate to find her family, Avalon travels across the country to the Headquarters of the Realm, with Healer Jack Greenwood, and animal companion Hawthorne.
Their friendship is tested when Jack is reunited with his estranged father, and falls under a strange beauty's spell.
Will Jack abandon Avalon during her quest?
And is Hawthorne really one-of-a-kind?
My Take: The sequel! I have been waiting for this! As I read the first book a while back, it captured my attention of the adventures that Avalon goes on. The story left me wanting to know more about what happens to Avalon. Behold..Flamethroat has arrived.
As the journey continues, Avalon heads home with Jack and Hawthorne to see her parents as she finds her home destroyed. Worry, sadness and anger fuels inside of Avalon seeing her home and family gone. She wondered what to do next. Eventually she and Jack are determined to start a mission to find her family and save her sister. Another venture begins for them.
While on their journey to the Realm, Jack and Avalon run into many more energetic situations and obstacles. There is always one thing after that keeps Jack and Avalon on their toes. Some will leave you gasping and some will leave you screaming no!
The one question I had while reading this sequel was whether or not Jack and Avalon will remain as friends or become something more in the romantic department? I love how Jack and Avalon interaction is amazing. They would not leave one another unless it was something serious. Their relationship does get tested when another beauty comes into the picture. Does Jack fall for the beauty or does he remain with Avalon? You need to read this book to find out.
Of course there are some heart breaking moments in this book! One of them is when Jack meets up with his father. Emotions poured out of Jack towards his father. At first Jack was not sure to give his father a second chance but Avalon tells Jack he should just listen and gave a hint that family is important. Jack slowly takes her advice. Eventually Jack and his father reconcile.
Another part is when Avalon meets up with her parents as it was awesome that she found them but then there's the whole adventure of getting her sister back. The action in this process was amazing as her father was still protective of Avalon even though she knows how to take care of herself. I loved how her family, Jack, herself, Hawthorne and a few others band together to fight to get their loved ones back even though there was 50/50 chance that their loved ones would not be normal again. It had me on the edge of my seat to see what was going to happen! Were they going to get their loved ones back? Was Avalon sister going to be normal or not? Who was doing this to humans?
I was also glad to see Raevyn making an appearance in this book. She's a wonderful friend to Jack and Avalon! She is such a great character.
This book had me reading on and on which was fantastic. I could not put it down. When I did put it down, I was thinking about this story and what would happen to Jack and Avalon in their journey. There were at times in the story that I was surprised and happy with the way things went down. The book left me wanting more. So go get this book today on Amazon. Be sure to read the first book first! You won't regret this adventurous fun filled journey with Avalon!
By the way, I personally think the cover is stunning just like the first book was!
Rating:
Story: A
Cover: A
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Disclaimer: I bought this book to read to give it an honest opinion!
After
Author: Kristin Harmel
Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers
Publisher Date: February 9th 2010
Pages: 240
Overview:
Lacey's world shatters when her dad is killed in a car accident. And secretly? She feels like it’s her fault. If she hadn’t taken her own sweet time getting ready that morning . . . well, it never would have happened. Her mom wouldn’t be a basket case. Her brother Logan wouldn’t drink. And her little brother would still have two parents.
But life goes on even if you don’t want it to. And when Lacey gets the chance to make a difference in the lives of some people at school, she jumps at it. Making lemonade out of lemons is her specialty. Except she didn’t count on meeting a guy like Sam. Or that sometimes? Lemonade can be a pretty bitter drink to swallow.
My Review:
I saw the cover of this book online and immediately was drawn to it. I clicked on the overview of the book and knew I had to get this book to read.
After a few days sitting in my house, I began to read this book. I could not put this book down. Lacey has her normal routine starting out in the beginning of the book and then the tragic event strikes. I felt Lacey was a great realistic character.
Of course Lacey ends up helping out another student who lost her mother to cancer which gets her mind thinking on things. She somehow creates a group for those who have lost a parent. I thought that was kind of nice to do since others would know how it felt to be treated. Some do not know how it is like until they lose a parent. Everyone deals with the loss differently but the group made it more normal for everyone.
During this process, Lacey also sprouts a romance with a the new guy, Sam. Sam has something major to tell her but then something else pops up and makes Lacey wonder. That secret got my attention!! Great suspense there.
Lacey's family also deals with her father's death differently. Her mother seems to be stuck in the process of grieving and not living. Towards the end of the book, her mother eventually reverts to back to her old self and lives for her family. Her brother Logan ends up drinking and then gets himself in a bad situation regarding to this matter. A big wake up call! Her other brother Tanner is always quiet. The family seems apart but in a way they are grieving in their own ways. Slowly the family gets back together. I liked how the family deals with grief a different way but should be done in more of a healthy manner.
On a personal note, the book did hit close to home, since my dad was killed in a car accident by a truck driver. At the end of the book where Lacey felt like it as her fault, I had those moments too. Life goes on. It's a great book for those who have lost a parent.
Cover Rating: A
Story Rating: A
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Disclaimer: I bought this book to read to give it an honest opinion!
Whisper by Alyson Noel
Publisher: Square Fish
Publication Date: 4/24/2012
Pages: 240
Overview
This time, Riley might really have bitten off more than she’s ready for. After practically begging the Council for a more challenging Soul Catch, she is assigned an actual Roman gladiator—Theocoles, the Pillar of Doom. How is Riley, a skinny twelve-year-old, supposed to get through to him? Then she meets the beautiful Messalina, who convinces her that her only chance is to become part of this world. To accomplish this, Messalina helps Riley through a dramatic, mystical makeover, transforming her into the beautiful and mature teen she’s always wanted to be. Finally, Riley can experience her first boyfriend and her first kiss. With a dream this enchanting, will she ever want to leave?
My Take
I love the Riley Bloom series. Each book that I've read about Riley Bloom are adventures filled with various stories of her being a Soul Catcher and adjusting to it. This book was sweet and well paced! Riley learns to deal with Theocoles as it ties in with Messalina. A few themes sprouted out of the adventure that Riley goes on such as forgiveness, romance/crushes and a bit of history (after all it does relate to Roman times).
Even though these series are geared towards 9-12 year olds. I enjoyed them. This is a great way for tweens to read! The writing is smooth as silk. Reading about Riley always makes a smile upon my lips to see how she is doing and what she learns. All the covers are so stunning and the colors that are placed on them..wow!
So pick up the series today. Be sure to check out the links below.
(Short Review)
Cover Rating: A
Story Rating: A
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Disclaimer: I bought this book to read to give it an honest opinion!
The Catastrophic History of You and Me by Jess Rothenberg
Publisher: Penguin Group Inc (USA)
Publication Date: 2/21/2012
Pages: 400
Overview
Brie's life ends at sixteen: Her boyfriend tells her he doesn't love her, and the news breaks her heart - literally. But now that she's in heaven, Brie is about to discover that love is way more complicated than she ever imagined. Back in Half Moon Bay, her family has begun to unravel. Her best friend knows a secret about Jacob, the boy she loved and lost - and the truth behind his shattering betrayal. And then there's Patrick, Brie's mysterious new guide and resident Lost Soul who's been D&G (dead and gone) much longer than she… and who just might hold the key to her forever after. With Patrick's help, Brie will have to pass through the five stages of grief before she's ready to move on… but how do you begin again, when your heart is still in pieces?
My Take
The cover caught my attention right away and figured it would be a fun book to read. I was right! It took me about 2 1/2 days to read this book.
The main character is named Brie who is quite interesting. I love how Brie meets Patrick in a pizza joint after she dies. Those two characters really set the mood for the book and I just love their relationship. Of course Brie goes through the stages of grief as Patrick is there to guide her and eventually gives her something. Patrick also has a few secrets which Brie eventually finds out which does shock you. I know it shocked me! I love how Brie goes through the emotions of learning things about herself, friends and family.
The had it's funny moments and heartbreaking moments. I thought the two did really well through out the book. Romance, friendship, life, how you deal with grief and important of family is what this book is about. It's a journey.
Cover Rating: A
Story Rating: B
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