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Disclaimer: I bought this book to read for myself and to give it an honest opinion.
The Infinite Moment of Us
by Lauren Myracle
Pages: 316
Published: August 27, 2013
Publisher: Amulet Books
Overview:
For as long as she can remember, Wren Gray’s goal has been to please her parents. But as high school graduation nears, so does an uncomfortable realization: Pleasing her parents once overlapped with pleasing herself, but now... not so much. Wren needs to honor her own desires, but how can she if she doesn’t even know what they are?
Charlie Parker, on the other hand, is painfully aware of his heart’s desire. A gentle boy with a troubled past, Charlie has loved Wren since the day he first saw her. But a girl like Wren would never fall for a guy like Charlie—at least not the sort of guy Charlie believes himself to be.
And yet certain things are written in the stars. And in the summer after high school, Wren and Charlie’s souls will collide. But souls are complicated, as are the bodies that house them...
My Take:
Characters:
Wren : B and Charle : A
Cover: B
Story: B
It was a sweet, romantic high school story. It's between YA and NA. This just seemed different than what I normally read. It didn't scream "WOW" to me like some books have had. It had some moments that were really good when Wren and Charlie communicate about things and the frustrations that they go through with each other. You can see it's real. The whole concept that screamed to me was that it was in high school, romance and friendship blossomed and it was about the point of living now. The book was fast paced and I managed to finish it in a day.
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Disclaimer: I bought this book to read for myself and to give it an honest opinion.
Unraveling (Unraveling #1)
Author: Elizabeth Norris
Paperback
480 Pages
Published: April 23, 2013
Publisher: Balzer + Bray
Overview
Two days before the start of her junior year, seventeen-year-old Janelle Tenner is hit by a pickup truck and killed—as in blinding light, scenes of her life flashing before her, and then nothing. Except the next thing she knows, she's opening her eyes to find Ben Michaels, a loner from her high school whom Janelle has never talked to, leaning over her. And even though it isn't possible, she knows—with every fiber of her being—that Ben has somehow brought her back to life.
But her revival, and Ben's possible role in it, is only the first of the puzzles that Janelle must solve. While snooping in her FBI agent father's files for clues about her accident, she uncovers a clock that seems to be counting down to something—but to what? And when someone close to Janelle is killed, she can no longer deny what's right in front of her: Everything that's happened—the accident, the murder, the countdown clock, Ben's sudden appearance in her life—points to the end of life as she knows it. And as the clock ticks down, she realizes that if she wants to put a stop to the end of the world, she's going to need to uncover Ben's secrets—and keep from falling in love with him in the process.
My Take
I attended a book signing where Elizabeth Norris was there! I decided to give her book a try. She was promoting the sequel to Unraveling so I decided to get the first book to see if I liked it. I did get the paperback book signed which is always awesome to do. It was fun to meet her and the other authors that were there as well. I had an open mind when I began to read this book.
Janelle is a teenager who lives with her mother, father and brother. Her life looks great on the outside to everyone but inside it is chaos. Her mother is bipolar and is constantly taken care of. Her father works long hours and is rarely home to help out when needed. What it boils down is that Janelle does most of the work around the house. She is almost taking on second mom duties. She gets along with her brother great as I loved their relationship with each other. She is just an amazing character. Pretty busy life, Janelle has!
One day things all seem normal until Janelle dies and then comes back to life! Well that sure got my attention. It took Janelle a while to put the pieces together on what had happened to her. When she figures it all out, it's quite a shock considering it is also related to her father's work. She began to snoop and let her interest fall into the depths of investigating. She is one smart cookie! Even I was shocked when I read what had happened to Janelle. This point in the book left me wanting to know more! So that required more reading.
She also did not expect to fall in love with Ben. Ben is quite the guy. He's a quiet guy around at the school. Even though the spark is there for Ben and Janelle! They know there is work to be done to solve the mystery and save the world. While trying to solve the mystery, they uncover some gruesome scenes which is a combination of science fiction and paranormal. It was different and unique. There is trust, devotion and love between Ben, Janelle and others when they go through this adventure together. All relationships have those components and I loved how this was shown in the book through the good and the bad events that happen.
Adventure goes to one thing after another. You get the action, the drama, the love, the hardships and choices that are hard to make. All the emotions explode in this book! I was feeling quite a bit of things. You will fall in love with the story and the characters. I loved how Janelle learns the secret of Ben and his friends which was awesome. The way it unfolded was not what I expected. Janelle is such a strong character considering what she has been through. Some people would not be that strong.
I'm not going to give any of the spoilers out and about on this book because it is so great. Plus I want you to go get it. It's different and had me hooked on from the first chapter. There is one line that everyone talks about that Ben says and I totally agree with them that it is such a fantastic line! Curious what it is? You'll have to go get it.
I am so getting the next book in this series! Thanks for Elizabeth Norris for writing such an amazing story. Plus it was lovely to meet you too!
Liz and I at Anderson's Bookshop in Naperville, IL
Story: B
Cover: B
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The Rules
(Project Paper Doll #1)
Author: Stacey Kade
Hardcover
Pages: 416
Published: April 23, 2013
Publisher: Disney-Hyperion
Overview
1. Never trust anyone.
2. Remember they are always searching.
3. Don’t get involved.
4. Keep your head down.
5. Don’t fall in love.
Five simple rules. Ariane Tucker has followed them since the night she escaped from the genetics lab where she was created, the result of combining human and extraterrestrial DNA. Ariane’s survival—and that of her adoptive father—depends on her ability to blend in among the full-blooded humans in a small Wisconsin town, to hide in plain sight at her high school from those who seek to recover their lost (and expensive) “project.”
But when a cruel prank at school goes awry, it puts her in the path of Zane Bradshaw, the police chief’s son and someone who sees too much. Someone who really sees her. After years of trying to be invisible, Ariane finds the attention frightening—and utterly intoxicating. Suddenly, nothing is simple anymore, especially not the rules
My Take
I loved the cover! That's what attracted me to the story. Once I read what this book was about, I decided to give it a go. The hardcover copy that I purchased was also autographed too! Yay!
The story takes place in high school and of course it has stereotypes of who's he best in the class and such things as that. It's told from Ariane and Zane's point of view throughout the story which I enjoyed. You can get a real feel for Ariane and Zane are thinking and feeling. Both of them are struggling with things. For instance, Ariane constantly battles to stay under the radar and follows the rules that she is told to. Zane tries his best to be the best for his father and never seems to please him. He also misses his mother. Eventually these two meet under high school drama.
The drama in high is dealing with who's who as your friend, bullying and surviving high school. The drama seems to be coming from Rachel, who's a girl who wants to get everything her way no matter what the consequences are. I really did not like her at all. The story really does not go into that much into action except towards the end of the book, leaving it open for another I believe! We do learn a bit more about Adriane's background which I found fascinating. I felt sorry of what Adriane went through and glad that she learns to stand up for herself in many ways.
Adriane and Zane together are amazing. Their witty remarks off of each other is playful and fun. They just fit nicely together. They seem to understand each other a little bit. Do they continue to be friends or no? Will Zane find out about her secret? Will Adriane end their friendship in order to be safe? What will happen?
I never read that much sci-fi genre but this one sure got my attention. Check it out today! Go pick up this book and give it a try. I could not put it down at all. I look forward to the second book. It just totally different and a bit serious on the side.
Story: B
Cover: A
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Beautiful Decay
Author: Sylvia Lewis
Paperback
Pages: 304
Published: April 9, 2013
Publisher: Running Press Kit
Overview:
Ellie Miller has always needed her space. Literally. With a touch that rots whatever she encounters, Ellie must keep people at a distance for their own good. Not that her classmates are itching to be best friends with the "freak" of the high school.
So when newcomer Nate MacPherson makes it his mission to get close to her, Ellie has her suspicions. But when he identifies her as a viviomancer who can work the forces of life and reveals himself to be a necromancer who can manipulate death, Ellie finds herself trusting Nate and the romance that is blossoming between them. Unfortunately for the two, family secrets can kill, and they will need more than their abilities to keep a zombie mom and a conglomerate of evil-doing supernaturals under control.
After spending her life pushing everyone away, Ellie's realization of the full extent of her power and willingness to let people get close to her may be the only way to save the ones she loves.
My Take:
I found this little special gem at the bookstore while browsing about! The cover just jumped out at me and said 'read me!' I had to take this book home.
I enjoyed Ellie, the main character quite a bit. Ellie is shunned in town due to her ability which I think takes a toll on her. So she fades in the background as much as she can, keeping to herself. As time goes on as she learns about Nate, the new guy. After hanging out with Nate as best as they can, usually through phone calls, she learns to stand up for herself. She realizes she does not have to be afraid and can control her ability. You will read Ellie being sarcastic quite a bit in the book. THe one thing I did not like was the fact that her mother and father were not very close to Ellie. Her parents did not take the time to be involved in her life as Ellie herself did the same thing.
Nate is a guy who has a lot going on in his life and was surprised that someone like Ellie was in the school that he attended. He tells her things such on matters of his life, the ability he has and what her ability is. Ellie seems to be cool with what he speaks of and takes it all in as best as she can. He is a guy who is straight to the point and swears quite a bit, but is very protective. He dislikes people who get picked on. You will be able to see this in the story and I think it is a great trait for Nate. Nate lives with his mom and she has this special need which Nate takes care. I admired Nate for doing what he does.
Then there's Mackenzie, Ellie's best friend whom she met online. I love those those two connect and tease each other. They are so great! I love how Mackenzie talks of different hair colors she tries and asks for Ellie's input. I can see these two being best friends for life. Mackenzie also has a secret as well which I thought was very, very cool. What will Mackenzie's reaction be if she finds out about Ellie's ability and the drama she is going through? Will she still remain friends or no?
As you get closer towards the end of the book, danger arises! Nate, Ellie and Mackenzie get thrown into a world of action, drama and suspense. The first few pages of the book captured my attention. As I continued to read, I could not put this book down. I had to know what Ellie's world was about and why she was there and what was going to happen to her. It was amazing how the three of them worked together to the best of their knowledge. Ellie is one tough cookie, Mackenzie has that smart gene, and Nate knows enough to get by. The ending was kind of left open which makes me wonder if there will be a sequel! I hope so. So go find this little gem and read!
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Story Rating: A
Cover Rating: A
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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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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Amy and Roger's Epic Detour
Author:Morgan Matson
Paperback
344 pages
Published May 4th 2010
Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Overview
Amy Curry thinks her life sucks. Her mom decides to move from California to Connecticut to start anew--just in time for Amy's senior year. Her dad recently died in a car accident. So Amy embarks on a road trip to escape from it all, driving cross-country from the home she's always known toward her new life. Joining Amy on the road trip is Roger, the son of Amy's mother's old friend. Amy hasn’t seen him in years, and she is less than thrilled to be driving across the country with a guy she barely knows. So she's surprised to find that she is developing a crush on him. At the same time, she’s coming to terms with her father’s death and how to put her own life back together after the accident.
My Review
This book is written as a narrative and has as well as scraps from the road. I loved how this book was written the way it was because you could follow it with no problem.
I love how Amy deals with the pressure and all by letting go on a trip across America with Roger. The way she copes is different and yet interesting. I know everyone copes differently due to someone dying. (This kind of touches home here with me for those who know me.) I think the trip helps Amy realize how to open up and learn to let go slowly.
Of course being in the car with Roger is different for Amy. I like how they are so different and yet they learn of each other and from each other. Roger seems the regular type of guy that you would want as a great friend. I like how Roger lends his ear to hear of what Amy has to say along the way. At first Roger wanted to go see his ex girlfriend to figure out what happened and Amy goes along with it. As things progress, Roger realizes there's more to the trip than his ex girlfriend.
The book made me want to go on a road trip (I wish!). It's a great journey to go on. It was such a great book, I cannot express that. The one thing that was cool about this book that I want to point it out that Amy and Roger visit Graceland which I have been to and would love to go back there one day again! It was nice to see a destination mentioned that I have been to in this book. I recommend this book for anyone who likes to travel!
Story: A
Cover: B
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(Various covers of the books)
The Future of Us
Author: Jay Asher & Carolyn Mackler
Paperback,
356 pages
Published January 5th 2012
by Simon & Schuster Childrens Books
Overview
It's 1996, and Josh and Emma have been neighbors their whole lives. They've been best friends almost as long - at least, up until last November, when Josh did something that changed everything. Things have been weird between them ever since, but when Josh's family gets a free AOL CD in the mail,his mom makes him bring it over so that Emma can install it on her new computer. When they sign on, they're automatically logged onto their Facebook pages. But Facebook hasn't been invented yet. And they're looking at themselves fifteen years in the future.
By refreshing their pages, they learn that making different decisions now will affect the outcome of their lives later. And as they grapple with the ups and downs of what their futures hold, they're forced to confront what they're doing right - and wrong - in the present.
My Review
This story was fast paced and quirky! The cover caught my eye and after I read the back of the book of what the story was about, I decided to give it a go!
The whole idea of finding about yourself in 15 years is quite something! I wouldn't mind a peek, wouldn't you? So this is what happens with Emma and Josh. They somehow get a blast into the future with Facebook and see where they are. They try to figure out what they want in life for the future. Decisions that you make now will affect your future, how true that is! Will Josh and Emma succeed in what they want for the future?
I love the talk of the 90s from this book, reminds me of my days of high school and a bit of college. I kind of miss it. The good ole days!
The book goes back and forth between Josh and Emma which I liked a great deal but at times it seemed a little slow too. You can actually understand and feel each character. It's a fun, unique and quick read. Give it a shot if you are interested in this type of book. I did and glad I did since it allowed me to have a bit of variety in my reading diet.
Story: B
Cover: B
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Disclaimer: I bought this ebook to read to give it an honest opinion!
Witchy, Witch (Spellbound Trilogy #1)
Author: Penelope King
Pages: 304
Format: Ebook
Published: July 19, 2011
Overview:
When Calista McCoy moves from the slums of the Louisiana Bayou to an illustrious beach community in California, she knows her life is going to take a drastic turn. But once she arrives at the beautiful mansion by the sea, dark secrets are revealed...secrets that become even more complicated when she meets the gorgeous neighbor boy, Nicholas, and she feels an unexplainable--and undeniable--attraction. He's everything she's ever dreamed of. Literally.
Her new life seems almost too good to be true. But as everyone knows, when something seems too good to be true, it usually is.
...And in Calista's case, it could be deadly.
My Take
I found this lovely gem online and downloaded the book as it was free. The cover caught my eye at first and then the storyline. I knew I had to have it, so into my collection it went. At first I did not read it right away due to other books in my pile.
Once I got into the story, I could not stop reading it! The pages filled with spectacular writing leaving your imagination in a world of adventure with Calista. I loved how the story took the main character to new places and things! She moves from Louisiana to California which is new. She ends up living in a new place which she never imagined in a place like this. She even goes through a few changes and makes friends which she has never had before.
When Nicholas comes into the picture, it was mysterious and interesting. It made me wonder how much of a part this character would play. How would Nicholas and Calista connect? Are they meant to be? You'll love the aspect of these two. I know I did!
Ana who is another character in the book takes Calista and her father in as it made me wonder what was she? Was she like Calista? Did she have her own agenda? At first I thought Ana was a proper type of character but as I got more into the book, Ana seems a rather nice and very informative lady who takes Calista under her wing.
Friends, everyone dreams of making friends! I was glad that Calista got to have a few friends to talk to. It's all new to her as she eventually feels comfortable in time with them. Making friends is never easy but once you have a common interest the rest just flows naturally.
This story allowed Calista to learn many, many secrets and information which I thought was told perfectly! As the information and secrets are spilled, the romance in this book is short but toe curling! Other than secrets and romance, there's action and danger gently sprouting out through the pages that leaves you wanting more. So go read this book today.
Rating: A
Cover Rating: A
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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!
Title: Gimme a Call
Author: Sarah Mlynowski
Publisher: Random House Children's Books
Publication date: 5/24/2011
Pages: 320
Overview:
A new life is just a phone call away!
Devi's life isn't turning out at all like she wanted. She wasted the past three years going out with Bryan—cute, adorable, break-your-heart Bryan. Devi let her friendships fade, blew off studying, didn't join any clubs . . . and now that Bryan has broken up with her, she has nothing left.
Not even her stupid cell phone—she dropped it in the mall fountain. Now it only calls one number . . . hers. At age fourteen, three years ago!
My Take
I loved the cover of this book which caught my eye along with the author's name. I've read a few of her other books, so I decided to give this one a go! It took me a while to read this book due to the fact I had many things going on in my life. Overall I liked how Devi talks to her younger self into things to try to make her life better. Sure the book had its moments of quirky things happening like trying to win the lottery and doing too many things at once. I think throughout the process of the book that Devi eventually learns of good and bad decisions can effect you no matter what the outcome is. Life does that and you have to deal. I did find myself liking Freshman Devi than Senior Devi.
While I read this book, the question did pop in my mind of "What would I have changed back in high school?" The answer to that has me thinking of a few things that I would have done differently but not to the extreme I think. I would probably tried to join the art club or even pursue writing more poetry or something like that. Sure I did try out for the dance troupe but didn't make it which bummed me out big time. As for dating wise, sure I had a few crushes but was too damn shy to talk to the boys back then.
Anyways the book was an interesting read.
Cover Rating: A
Story Rating: C
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