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Disclaimer: I checked this book out from the library to read to give it an honest opinion!
The Dressmaker
Author: Kate Alcott
Hardcover
306 Pages
February 21, 2012
Publisher: Doubleday
Overview
Tess, an aspiring seamstress, thinks she's had an incredibly lucky break when she is hired by famous designer Lady Lucile Duff Gordon to be a personal maid on the Titanic's doomed voyage. Once on board, Tess catches the eye of two men, one a roughly-hewn but kind sailor and the other an enigmatic Chicago millionaire. But on the fourth night, disaster strikes.
Amidst the chaos and desperate urging of two very different suitors, Tess is one of the last people allowed on a lifeboat. Tess’s sailor also manages to survive unharmed, witness to Lady Duff Gordon’s questionable actions during the tragedy. Others—including the gallant Midwestern tycoon—are not so lucky.
On dry land, rumors about the survivors begin to circulate, and Lady Duff Gordon quickly becomes the subject of media scorn and later, the hearings on the Titanic.
My Take
Sorry but this book is not a young adult book! It is geared more towards regular fiction! I have been wanting to read this book for a long time. Every time I'm out shopping I see this book and was so tempted to buy it. I ended up checking it out from my library instead. I'm also a sucker for Titanic stories.
Anyways I liked the book and story quite a bit. The characters in this book are strong. All of them have their strong and weak points. For instance the main character Tess is set off for her own dreams and tries to go after them no matter what. She does not want to clean floors and be a personal servant. She wants to create her own clothes and be successful in that. I admired her for taking this path. She's the type of gal that has her head on her shoulders at time but it takes her a while to see that not everyone is good. Tess is also a believable character in this book compared to some others!
Tess ends up with Lady Duff Gordon on the ship of Titanic as it goes okay. Tess really is not really maid material and wishes to be a dressmaker. She goes on an adventure with Lady Duff through the good and bad. She gets to see how the ship with the different classes. While on Titanic, she meets two different men which are interesting to see. She goes through quite a bit and at the end I think she made the right choice.
The sinking of the ship happens and emotions are thrown everywhere. I can only imagine the state of mind of everyone. Everyone is trying to survive and do what you have to do to make it. Some sacrifice and others do not. It's part of nature to be that way I think. To those who survived would have to live with what they saw and did. Some may cope differently than others.
Once everyone arrives to New York you get a feel of what the time period was like. For women and lower class, it was not easy but there was hope. Fashion was also shown in this book and how things were done back then. I think it was grew tho see all these things so you can get a better feel of what it was like.
A few other characters are strong in this book is Pinky, who's a writer. To be a writer in during the times of Titanic is challenging. She keep plugging away at each story she can get with determination! She then covers the trials of the Titanic as she meets Tess and a few others. She eventually becomes friends with Tess. Both of them bump heads at times but in the long run they know they meant well. I love the relationship Pinky has with Tess.
There is a love triangle that sprouts out in this book with Tess and two gentlemen. It's rather interesting to see. Who does Tess choose? I was rooting for the one that she picked! You'll have to read to find out who it was.
If you like historical fiction books, then go grab this one today. You won't regret reading it. I know I don't!
Story: B
Cover: A
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Disclaimer: I bought this ebook to read to give it an honest opinion!
The Medium (Emily Chambers Spirit Medium Trilogy #1)
by C.J. Archer
ebook, 260 pages
Published July 2nd 2012 by Oz Books
Overview:
Seventeen year-old spirit medium Emily Chambers has a problem. Actually, she has several. As if seeing dead people isn't a big enough social disadvantage, she also has to contend with an escaped demon and a handsome ghost with a secret past. And then there's the question of her parentage. Being born an entire year after her father's death (yes, a year) and without the pale skin of other respectable English ladies, Emily is as much a mystery as the dead boy assigned to her.
Jacob Beaufort's spirit has been unable to crossover since his death. It might have something to do with the fact he was murdered. Or it might not. All he knows is, he has been assigned by the Otherworld's administrators to a girl named Emily. A girl who can see and touch him. A girl who released a shape-shifting demon into the mortal realm. Together they must send the demon back before it wreaks havoc on London. It should be a simple assignment, but they soon learn there's nothing simple when a live girl and a dead boy fall in love.
My Review
I downloaded this book onto my iPad and I thought it would be a fun read! Well my instinct was right. The story and characters stayed with me the entire time of reading this adventure!
I loved how Emily wanted to take matters in her own hand considering she was only seventeen and was living in London during the times where she should have been married. I found her to be quite a fascinating character. She took the adventure to a new limit. I love her interaction with Jacob who is a ghost and is also quite smitten with Emily.
Emily's sister seems to take the role of the mom in the book and tends to nag a little bit at times which I thought was irritating but that was her role in a way too. She was also protective of Emily which was a nice touch as well.
Jacob, what can I say? He's quite a dashing man for a ghost. For him to solve the mystery of who let loose of the demon was fun. It was interesting to get a bit of information of why he died and of his family. I hope we find the answers to that, perhaps they tie in with each other his death and the the demon?
The one aspect I thought was neat is that there was a waiting room for those who have passed and waited there. Anything is possible isn't it? I love ghost and mediums concepts and ideas that sprout out from the author's brains. Some are the same and some are refreshing! I think in this story it's refreshing!
The ending leaves room for a sequel and I so want to see what adventure Emily goes on next! Will the mysteries be solved? I'm looking forward to read the next book.
Story: B
Cover: A
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The Medium (Emily Chambers Spirit Medium Trilogy #1)
by C.J. Archer
ebook,
260 pages
Published July 2nd 2012 by Oz Books (first published June 30th 2012)
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Disclaimer: I bought this book to read to give it an honest opinion!
My Super Sweet Sixteenth Century
Author: Rachel Harris
Pages:304
Published: September 11, 2012
Publisher: Entangled Publishing
Overview
On the precipice of her sixteenth birthday, the last thing lone wolf Cat Crawford wants is an extravagant gala thrown by her bubbly stepmother-to-be and well-meaning father. So even though Cat knows the family’s trip to Florence, Italy, is a peace offering, she embraces the magical city and all it offers. But when her curiosity leads her to an unusual gypsy tent, she exits . . . right into Renaissance Firenze.
Thrust into the sixteenth century armed with only a backpack full of contraband future items, Cat joins up with her ancestors, the sweet Alessandra and protective Cipriano, and soon falls for the gorgeous aspiring artist Lorenzo. But when the much-older Niccolo starts sniffing around, Cat realizes that an unwanted birthday party is nothing compared to an unwanted suitor full of creeptastic amore.
Can she find her way back to modern times before her Italian adventure turns into an Italian forever?
My Review
Cat is off to Italy with her father and stepmother for a sweet sixteen party. Cat seems to be not so happy that her stepmother is throwing this party but at the same time she is glad she's going to Italy. She loves the arts and Italy is the place to see it all. She somehow manages to get some time to herself away from her father and stepmother by going on a tour. She then ends up being curious of a gypsy tent and then somehow is transformed back in time!
Her reaction was not scared but was pretty stroked about being back in time. It was neat that Cat could actually understand the language and speak it. Although her adjusting to the customs of 16th century was interesting to see. The other characters from the 16th century seemed to think the way Cat talked was just how it was in London. There was not so much shock geared towards Cat. Cat did have an adventure and she learned some lessons as well.
She meets Alessandra from the 16th century who becomes her friend and manages to tell her that she is really from the future. I loved how Alessandra was pretty accommodating to her along with being fascinated of the future. She is a good character. Somehow she ends up being more important than you think.
Of course romance! Lorenzo oozed with being a perfect guy for Cat. He was also an artist. He came off to be as a swoon worthy guy even with his awkward moments. I was glad to see how Lorenzo and Cat reacted to each other. Does Cat get Lorenzo?
Something triggers Cat to realize she must get back to her time. Will she be able to? Will the gypsy lady show up again? What will happen? Overall the story is a great, whimsical and fun read. If you like time traveling and quick reads, this book is great! The ending I must say is not what I expected and I can't wait for more!
Cover Rating: A
Story Rating: B
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Disclaimer: I bought this book to read to give it an honest opinion!
Ruined
Author: Paula Morris
Pages: 304
Publisher: Scholastic Inc
Overview:
Rebecca couldn't feel more out of place in New Orleans, where she comes to spend the year while her dad is traveling. She's staying in a creepy old house with her Aunt Claudia, who reads Tarot cards for a living. And at the snooty prep school, a pack of filthy-rich girls treat Rebecca like she's invisible. Only gorgeous, unavailable Anton Grey seems to give Rebecca the time of day, but she wonders if he's got a hidden agenda. Then one night, in Lafayette Cemetery, Rebecca makes a friend. Sweet, mysterious Lisette is eager to talk to Rebecca, and to show her the nooks and crannies of the city.
My Review:
The story takes place with Rebecca, who comes from New York ending up in New Orleans to live with her Aunt while her father goes travels for work. Rebecca gets thrown into a new setting and has to adjust as best as she can be. She learns of how society functions down in New Orleans. At first she doesn't seem to be interested in it and has a hard time making friends but eventually that changes as she meets Lisette helps her by being her friend and tells her a story.
I found myself more fascinated in the story as it progressed. The history captured my attention mostly. The story made me wonder what was going to happen next. Rebecca found herself in an adventure and mystery. As for the ghost aspect of this book, it was rich with history. There were many ghosts mentioned but mainly focuses on one ghost which I will not give away. You need to read the book to find that out. It surprised me who it was!
There is some romance between Anton and Rebecca but the book mostly focuses on the history and ghost aspect. The romance was sweet as usual. The whole book made me feel like I was on an adventure with Rebecca. Great book for those who want something filled with adventure, mystery, history, a bit of romance and a ghost character! I recommend it for all ages.
The cover is stunning! I totally love the cover how it goes a gothic and ghostly feel to it.
Story Rating: B
Cover Rating: A
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Disclaimer: I bought this book to read to give it an honest opinion!
Wildthorn by Jane Eagland
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
Publication Date: 1/17/2012
Pages: 352
Overview
They strip her naked, of everything—undo her whalebone corset, hook by hook. Locked away in Wildthorn Hall—a madhouse—they take her identity. She is now called Lucy Childs. She has no one; she has nothing. But, she is still seventeen—still Louisa Cosgrove, isn't she? Who has done this unthinkable deed? Louisa must free herself, in more ways than one, and muster up the courage to be her true self, all the while solving her own twisted mystery and falling into an unconventional love . . .
My Take
The cover on this book is stunning which caught my eye right away. As I started this book the book has Louisa reflect on her past memories to present day. I could tell right away which chapter was her past and which was the present along with the help of the font style being different. This book was well written as it captured how it felt to be an asylum during the Victorian age. It gives you quite a perspective on how things were done there.
Louisa is the main character in this book who is a strong character with the odds against her. She isn't portrayed as a normal Victorian woman as she has a sense of being a tomboy. She does want to follow her father's footsteps in the medical field which I thought was awesome. Sadly during that time, women weren't really acceptable to be doctors. She didn't have the same interests as what was normal for women during the time. She rose up to the task when everything was taken away from her during her time at the asylum. She conditions she goes through is heartbreaking but Louisa has a strong spirit. She also has help from Eliza within the asylum.
The entire book made me guess what was going to happen next for Louisa. Was she going to escape? Was she going to find out why she was put in the asylum? Would she see her family again? Would she find love? I'm not giving the whole story away.
It was quite a different read and yet I'm glad I read it. The history really gives you a perspective on how it was like back then as a woman to go through many different things. I'm glad the author wrote this book. Hope you pick up a copy today and dive right into it.
Cover Rating: A
Story Rating: B
Disclaimer: I bought this book to read to give it an honest opinion!
Fateful by Claudia Gray
Publisher: HarperCollins Publisher
Publication Date: 9/13/2011
Pages: 336
Overview:
Eighteen-year-old maid Tess Davies is determined to escape the wealthy, troubled family she serves. It’s 1912, and Tess has been trapped in the employ of the Lisles for years, amid painful memories and twisted secrets. But now the Lisle family is headed to America, with Tess in tow. Once the ship they’re sailing on—the RMS Titanic—reaches its destination, Tess plans to strike out and create a new life for herself.
Her single-minded focus shatters when she meets Alec, a handsome first-class passenger who captivates her instantly. But Alec has secrets of his own. He’s in a hurry to leave Europe, and whispers aboard the ship say it’s because of the tragic end of his last affair with the French actress who died so gruesomely and so mysteriously. . . .
Soon Tess will learn just how dark Alec’s past truly is. The danger they face is no ordinary enemy: werewolves exist and are stalking him—and now her, too. Her growing love for Alec will put Tess in mortal peril, and fate will do the same before their journey on the Titanic is over.
My Take
So I bought this book because it was related to Titanic and for some reason any Titanic stories catch my attention quite easily. The cover of the book that I have is the blue one. I posted both cover styles because they are both amazing. Anyways, I barely even saw the review that this book had werewolves in it until I actually read the book. That's a first for me not to see the supernatural elements in the book until I read it and it was fun! I actually read this book in one day, I just could not put it down.
The beginning of book caught my attention right away with Tess! I love how the book revolves around Tess's adventure on the Titanic as a servant and woman. I could empathize with her and how her reactions were realistic. Of course, Tess finds out that Alec is a werewolf and somehow feels naturally bonded to him. Love blossoms between Alec and Tess considering Alec is wealthy class and Tess isn't. Will it survive? They both go through stages of adventures of good and bad.
Other than Alec fighting to be a werewolf, Mikhail who is from the Brotherhood wants Alec to turn to the dark side of being a werewolf which is one of the stages that Alec goes through in the book. Mikhail also threatens Tess as well. This is the one of the dark aspects in the book other than knowing that the ship will sink. I love that there are supernatural elements aboard the Titanic!
The book mainly focuses on Tess and Alec but other characters come into play! Myriam who's Tess's bunkmate plays a nice character as well as George who fancies Myriam and works for the Titanic. Then there are Alec's father, the Lisle's and Ned. All the characters in the book are compelling and powerful!
As you know the Titanic sinks, but it is interesting to see who lives or dies! Another fantastic read! Pick it up today and you won't be sorry you read it.
Cover Rating: A
Story Rating: A
