Once Upon a Review

Review: Knight Angels: Book of Love by Abra Ebner

2010-11-29T13:21:00.002-06:00

Title: Knight Angels: Book of Love
Author: Abra Ebner
Published: April 26th, 2010
Pages: 367
Rating: 4 flowers
Summary:
New characters, New world, but old enemies. Emily struggles to ignore a new friend with emotions that temp her, Wes delves deeper into his past and family while finding friendship isn't reserved for the human race alone, Jane finds out her dear Max isn't what he seems, Gregs friendships cost him more than he expected, and Max forgets that the truth is best. But then again, someone always has to be the liar... Emotional baggage, begrudged enemies, and the bitterness that comes when the honeymoon of their friendship fades... Will the love survive, or as it all just a game?

My Thoughts:

KNIGHT ANGELS: BOOK OF LOVE is a promising book told in multiple point of views about guardian angels, true love, hope and death.

I have never read a book that was written in more than two point of views so when I received this book I didn't know what to expect other than it might end up being confusing at times. I can proudly say I was wrong on all counts. The multiple point of views did the story justice. I couldn't see it written any different. It let us get to know each of the characters personally but we are introduced mainly to Jane, Max, Emily, Wes and Greg.

KNIGHT ANGELS first introduces us to Jane and Emily. Sister who are the complete opposite but have one thing in common, they both have strange abilitlies. Jane can see flashes of how people will die by just looking at them and Emily can read peoples minds and emotions. Wes is the boy next door and one of Jane's best friends, who unkowingly at first, has a secrect gift of his own. Max *insert long sigh here* is the new boy in town who has captured Jane's attention. Little does know but Max is her guardian angel. Then there is Greg, Max's evil twin brother.
Each of the characters have an interesting story to tell and they take you on a fun ride.

My only real complaints are that some words were missing while some were mispelled. It got a little confusing to read but I still knew what the words were suppose to be.

Overall, I think it's hard not to give too much away about the plot so I won't say much, but KNIGHT ANGELS is definetly a good book to read if you like a good Angel book!

______________________________________________________

(Other books in the series)

KNIGHT ANGELS: BOOK OF REVENGE
October 2010

Review: Intrinsical by Lani Woodland

2010-11-25T12:30:00.002-06:00

Title: Intrinsical
Author: Lani Woodland
Published: August 20th, 2010
Pages: 298
Rating: 5 flowers
Summary:
Sixteen-year-old Yara Silva has always known that ghosts walk alongside the living. Her grandma, like the other females in her family, is a Waker, someone who can see and communicate with ghosts. Yara grew up watching her grandmother taunted and scorned for this unusual ability and doesn't want that to be her future. She has been dreading the day when she too would see ghosts, and is relieved that the usually dominant Waker gene seems to have skipped her, letting her live a normal teenage life. However, all that changes for Yara on her first day at her elite boarding school when she discovers the gene was only lying dormant. She witnesses a dark mist attack Brent, a handsome fellow student, and rushes to his rescue. Her act of heroism draws the mist's attention, and the dark spirit begins stalking her. Yara finds herself entrenched in a sixty-year-old curse that haunts the school, threatening not only her life, but the lives of her closest friends as well. Yara soon realizes that the past she was trying to put behind her isn't going to go quietly.

My Thoughts:

INTRINSICAL is a fast-paced roller coaster that leaves readers eagerly turning the pages.

Two words, beautiful and haunting. As soon as I got this book, I began reading it and became hooked from the very first chapter. Lani Woodlands doesn't hold anything back, she drives straight into the action of the story. If I was standing up, it would literally have me on the tips of my toes with all the twists and turns. It kept me thinking and guessing, it defintely wasn't a predictable story. Which is a good thing!

The writing is absolutely beautiful and detailed. Lani Woodland knows her imagery! The plot itself is one of the best ones I have personally ever read. I love love LOVE ghost stories, there are not enough in YA.

Let's talk about the cover for a second. WOW. Isn't it stunning? I think it fits perfectly for the story, it's both beautiful and haunting.

Overall, I highly recommend INTRINSICAL to everyone! Those looking for a promising paranormal read, go and get it right now! I am definitely looking forward to more of Lani Woodland's writings!

Teaser Tuesday (The Iron Queen by Julie Kagawa)

2010-11-23T12:56:00.003-06:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

~ Grab your current read
~ Open to a random page
~ Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
~ BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
~ Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

HEY GUYS! Right now I am reading THE IRON QUEEN by Julie Kagawa so here is my teaser.

My Teasers:

"Oi, lovebirds!' Puck's voice shattered the quiet, bouncing through the darkness. Ash pulled back with a rueful look. 'Get a room, would ya? We've got better things to do than watch you suck face!'"

pg.59 "The Iron Queen" by Julie Kagawa

It's Monday, What are you reading? & Updates.

2010-11-22T20:20:00.004-06:00

Sorry for my prolonged absence everyone! This month hasn't been the best to say the least. But now I'm back! Finally got my laptop fixed and my personal life under control. If I owe you anything, I have been mailing things out all week. I would also like to thank those who have stuck around regardless. Hope everyone has a Happy Thanksgiving and a safe holiday season this year! I'm going to be working on a more festive layout so please be patient if the layout looks a little weird for a while :P

Now let's talk about books!

It's Monday! What Are You Reading? A fun meme hosted by Sheila at One Persons Journey Through a World of Books. It's where we gather to share what we've read last week and our reading plans for this week. So go check out her blog and join in on the fun!

My TBR pile for this week!

For Review:City of Glass by Cassandra Clare (finished, review soon)Paranormalcy by Kiersten White (finished, review soon)Clockwork Angel by Cassandra ClareThe Iron Queen by Julie Kagawa (!!)

Right now, I am reading Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare and The Iron Queen by Julie Kagawa! Both books are amazing so far!

What are you reading this week??

YASpooktacular Prize Packs!

2010-10-29T11:11:00.006-05:00

That was a ton of fun! Thanks so much for being part of the first ever YAspooktacular. We look forward to next year! And what about those stories?!? I hope you enjoyed them as much as we did.

If you don't know what I'm talking about, then you need to catch up. Go read the stories! You can click here for story 1: Darkness and here for story 2: A Soul Laid Bare.

Below you will find the entry forms to the grand prize packs for each story--and the one combined pack for all International people! Before you fill it out, double check this list and make sure you did everything you need to so you can enter.

1. Did you comment on every piece of the story? There are 13. If there's not a comment on each piece and your name is chosen by random, then you won't win. That will be sad. So, you should go check and see. A complete list of all the blogs can be found here.

2. The final TRICK. You won't want to miss this one. Really. Click the picture and then come back here to fill out your form!

See? That was fun. Thanks to that person in that trick for taking on that linking challenge!

Here are the forms. Find the one that corresponds with the story you read and fill it out. If you did both, you'll have to do both forms. If you are international, yours is all the way at the bottom.

DARKNESS pack includes:
*ARC of Nightshade by Andrea Cremer

*Thirsty by M.T. Anderson
*ARC of Karma Bites by Stacy Kramer & Valerie Thomas
*The Robe of Skulls by Vivian French
*Vampireology
*Prom Nights From Hell (anthology)
*ARC of The Poison Bible

*Swag

&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Loading...&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;

A SOUL LAID BARE pack includes:

*The Dark Ground (book 1) by Gillian Cross

*ARC of Dead Beautiful by Yvonne Woon

*Blue Bloods by Melissa De La Cruz

*ARC of Monsters of Men by Patrick Ness

*The Saga of Larten Crepsley

*ARC Vampire Crush

*A SURPRISE BOOK!

*Swag (more than what you see here! almost the same as the Darkness Pack's swag!)

*$15 Gift Card to The Book Depository! (courtesy of Greyz)

The last thing is a survey. It's anonymous and optional but your feedback would be helpful. You can click here if you want to fill it out.

Thanks for participating! Winners for all ToTs and the grand prize packs will be announced by Nov. 6 via email and a blog post. This contest officially closes on October 31 at 11pm EST.

Until then, spread the word and, take a second to let me know what you liked most!

Jumpstart the World Tour - Character Interview (Elle) & Giveaway

2010-10-25T19:07:00.003-05:00

For the eighth stop of Catherine Ryan Hyde's book tour for Jumpstart The World, I got to interview the main character Elle! I absolutely love her, such a strong girl.

Catherine Ryan Hyde's new book Jumpstart the World came out October 12th. Other titles by Catherine include Pay It Forward, Becoming Chloe and The Day I Killed James, and more. Jumpstart the World is Catherine's 14th published novel! Don't forget to check below for your chance to win a copy of Jumpstart the World.

In Jumpstart the World, Frank tells Elle, “The world doesn’t always play by its own rules.” He says we all agree that there should be equality for everyone. But of course there isn’t. And we just let it slide. He says, “That’s why there’s such a thing as activism. Sometimes you have to jumpstart the world just to get it to be what even the world admits it should be.”

For 5 ways you can "Jumpstart the World" check out Catherine's blog post

5 ways to Jumpstart the World

__________________________________________________

Character Interview - Elle

1). For everyone who hasn’t had the chance to read Jumpstart the World, can you tell us a little about yourself?

Sure. My name is Elle. I just turned 16. And I live alone. Weird, I know. My mother pays the rent, but still. She moved me into my own apartment because of “The Donald.” Her idiotic new boyfriend. He seems to think he didn’t sign on to getting a teenager in “the package deal.” Like he’s buying my mom on the stock exchange or something. But you know what? It’s bullshit. I didn’t really even get on his nerves at home, because I hate him, so I stayed in my room with the door closed. It’s a…thing with him. I don’t know what kind of thing to call it. Like he has to win. So he said to my mom, “Choose. Her or me?” So guess who she chose? I know. It’s really sick.

In some ways it’s okay, though, because I’m not completely alone. I have some friends at the new school, Shane and Wilbur and The Bobs. They’re gay, and I’m not. Not that I care. It’s not a big deal. I just figure everybody thinks I’m gay now, too. But they did anyway, so…whatever.

And my best friend is Frank. He’s sort of more than a best friend, in a way. I mean, not really he’s not, but he is to me. He’s a lot older. And he lives with Molly, who’s also my friend. But I love him. I just do. He’s a trans man. That took a little getting used to on my part. Not because I have a problem with transgender. Because of my loving him the way I do. But I got over it. And I still love him. I think when you meet him, you’ll get why.

2) How would you describe your relationship with your mother?

(Strangled noise in throat.) That’s a hard one. That’s hard to know even where to begin. First of all, she doesn’t listen to me. At all. And she doesn’t see me. She looks at me. But I can tell she doesn’t see me, because she thinks I’m just like her. I’m nothing like her!

And I just can’t make her see about Donald. Like that cruise he decided to take her on. Big happy surprise! Right on my birthday! How obvious does he have to be before she gets it that it’s like a game with him, winning out over me?

And then, here I am living on my own like a grownup, and then she comes barging in now and then acting like she’s my mother and I have to listen. You can’t have it both ways. You’re either the mother or you’re not.

Crap. I probably never should have gotten started on that. Sorry.

3) What kind of music do you like to listen to? Do you have a favorite band?

My absolute favorite is Janis Joplin, which people think is stupid, because she died decades before I was born. But she’s so intense. Her voice is like…it’s like she doesn’t sing the lyrics, she screams them, and I can hear a piece of myself in those screams. When I listen to her, even if I don’t sing along, I feel like I’ve had a good screaming session myself. I feel emptied out. In a good way. It feels good.

4) For someone so young living by themselves, do you think it has made you grow up, emotionally?

I guess I thought I was all grown up, emotionally. But, looking back over the past few months, I see more about things. I don’t think living alone all by itself would have done it. I could have just curled in on myself more. I think it was Frank. And Shane, and Wilbur, and The Bobs. But mostly Frank. Knowing Frank grew me up a lot. (Wilbur helped, too. I love Wilbur.)

5) If you had to choose someone to play your role, if your story were a movie, who would it be?

Oh. Damn. I wish Clare Danes wasn’t too old now. If Clare Danes could somehow magically be the age she was in My So-Called Life…I don’t know, like a time machine or something…that would be perfect.

6) Can you tell us some surprising things no one would know just by looking at you?

That I’m scared. Most of the time. I act like I’m not, and I say I’m not. But I totally am. Sometimes I think I’m pulling it off and other times I think people see right through me. Also that I really do like to have people around, if they’re the right people. You know. A little company. I act like I don’t. But I think that’s just because of all those wrong people. But I get lonely, just like everybody. And no matter what I say, I really need friends. I guess we all do. Right?

____________________________________________________

GIVEAWAY

Want a chance to win your own copy of Jumpstart the World?
Just comment below with your email address and I will select one person at random.

US/Canda ONLY, sorry.
Ends November 12th, 2011 11:59 p.m EST

Early mini-Review: Through Her Eyes by Jennifer Archer

2010-10-24T12:01:00.000-05:00

Title: Through Her Eyes
Author: Jennifer Archer
Published: April 5th, 2010
Pages: 383 (ARC)
Rating: 5 flowers
Blurb:
Every ghost has a story to tell.

The last place Tansy Piper wants to be is stuck in Cedar Canyon, Texas, in the middle of nowhere, with a bunch of small-town kids. But when her mother decides to move to the desolate West Texas town, Tansy has no choice but to go along. Once there, Tansy is immediately drawn to the turret of their rickety old house, a place she soon learns has a disturbing history. But its the strange artifacts she finds in the cellar--a pocket watch, a journal of poetry, and a tiny crystal--that have the most chilling impact on her.

Tansy soon finds that through the lens of her camera, she can become part of a surreal black-and-white world where her life is intertwined with that of mysterious, troubled Henry, who lived in the same house and died decades earlier. It seems their lives are linked by fate and the artifacts she found, but as Tansy begins spending more and more time in the past, her present world starts to fade away. Tansy must untangle herself from Henry's dangerous reality-- before she loses touch with her own life forever.

My Thoughts:

THROUGH HER EYES is a captivating story that mixes paranormal and contemporary aspects together creating a truly unique premise.

On Goodreads it says that the book will come out in hardcover and is 240 pages. But I really hope that is a mistake since the ARC is exactly 383. I can't imagine the story being a page less!

The Prologue is amazing enough to capture the readers attention, it sure got mine! The characters are well-written and realistic. I found myself really relating to Tansy in different ways. Her family moves around a lot so she never stays in one place for more than a year.
The setting itself was spot on. I have lived in the Texas Panhandle for most of my life so Jennifer Archer definitely does an awesome job when it comes to introducing the setting to her readers.

Jennifer Archer's writing is absolutely beautiful. I found myself immersed in the story because of the very detailed writing. It is almost poetic. The plot was another thing I loved and the way that Archer switches to the different time period (Henry's) is brilliant. I don't want to give too much away since the book doesn't comes out for another 6 months but I will say that you definitely do not want to miss out on this book or more from Jennifer! Read it as soon as you can!

This is Jennifer Archer's first young adult novel but she has previously published more than 10 adult books.

(Be looking out for my full review closer to release date!)

______________________________________________________

AVAILABLE APRIL, 2011

-------------------------------

Mini-Book Trailer

Through Her Eyes _ Book Trailer from Emily Greaser on Vimeo.

YA Spooktacular Story 1: DARKNESS, part 5

2010-10-24T01:00:00.007-05:00

Hey everyone! Dying to read more of the first YA Spooktacular story, DARKNESS? Well I have part 5 for you!

Before we get started with my part, just a reminder that on October 29th, the grand prize packs will up for grabs! We have two of them--one for each story--and one for internationals. To enter them you must comment on every post in the story you are reading. We will be checking! When that day comes, you'll have to fill out an entry form here on my blog or on this one. You may enter for both Prize Packs by reading both stories! You can win extra entries and extra prizes along the way by clicking on the TRICK or TREAT buttons that you see. All of the ToTs are optional but a great chance to win more prizes and entries! For all the rules, the full rundown click HERE.

________________________________________________

Story 1, part 5 - written by Jennifer Archer

“Anna! You’re early,” he whispered. Jeremy dug his fingernails into the palms of his hands, but the pain didn’t squelch his desire for the taste of the nectar that pulsed through her veins. “How long have you been waiting?”

“Not long. Five minutes at the most. I wasn’t sure you’d come.”
He gazed down into her wide, green eyes – so innocent, so pure, so trusting. Why couldn’t she understand that danger lurked in the shadows? Loving him made her all the more vulnerable to his prowling, ravenous brethren, yet she refused to succumb to their threat. Or his.
It had been Anna’s request that they meet here, at the third headstone on the second row, an hour before dawn. Jeremy had panicked when her message arrived. He left early, intent on arriving before her, intent on making certain no others had learned of their planned rendezvous and waited to steal Anna’s light before he could stop them.
Jeremy pulled her to him and buried his face in her silken hair. He breathed in her orchid scent, aching to taste her. “I came only to tell you goodbye. I’m leaving the city in the morning.”

Leaving you -- the only light I love, he thought. Dooming myself to complete and utter darkness to save you . . . to save the only remaining shred of my dignity.

She pulled back, the moonlight illuminating her pale porcelain skin and the startled flash of her eyes. “Leaving? But, why?”
“Because you won’t listen to my warnings,” he whispered. “And I’m not certain how long I can resist you.”
Anna’s face softened as she cupped his cheek in her palm. “I’m not afraid of you, Jeremy.”
“That’s what worries me,” he said in a strangled voice. Hating himself, he turned away, unable to hold her gaze. “I’m of the devil. I’ll only end up hurting you if I stay . . .”
“No.” Her fingers warmed his icy chin as she coaxed him to look at her again. Smiling, Anna said, “I know your heart as well as my own. That’s why I asked you to meet me here – so that I can show you why I’ve no need to be afraid.”

She took his hand and led him closer to the third headstone. It was larger than the others and adorned by an ornate cross overgrown with tangled, winding vines. Pausing at the base of it she said, “Look, Jeremy.”

He followed her gaze to the inscription on the crumbling headstone, and his breath caught.

Want more Jennifer Archer? Visit her website.

Find out what happens next over at Paperbackdolls!

Missed the whole story? Head over to Frenzy of Noise to start at Part 1!

Now it's time for the "Trick-or-Treat" part. This stop we have a TREAT for you! Up for grabs is a wonderful prize pack from Imogen Rose!

* PORTAL by Imogen Rose (signed)
* EQUILIBRIUM by Imogen Rose (signed)
* Two bookmarks
* Bag of candy
* Teddy Bear with shirt that says:
"You aren't Bella Swan for goodness sake! Put your big girl pants on and D-E-A-L" haha

To fill out the form and enter, click on the TREAT button above.

Make sure to check out Story 2 of the YA Spooktacular event called A SOUL LAID BARE.

Click on the button to start reading Part 1.

YASpooktacular author - Jennifer Archer

2010-10-23T22:36:00.004-05:00

I am so excited that YA author, Jennifer Archer, is participating in our YASpooktacular event! Tomorrow, her part of the story (part 5) will be posted up on my blog so make sure to stop by and read it!

And don't forget to enter one of our "TREATS" to win an ARC of her 2011 debut, THROUGH HER EYES. It will be released by HarperTeen in April, 2011.

Tomorrow I will also be putting up my early mini-review of THROUGH HER EYES. I will wait a little closer to release date to put my full review up.

_______________________________________________________

Through Her Eyes by Jennifer Archer

Genre: Young Adult

Publishes: April 5th, 2011

Publisher: HarperTeen

Sixteen-year-old Tansy Piper moves with her grandfather and her mother, a horror writer, to the setting of her mother's next book--a secluded house outside of a tiny, desolate West Texas town. Lonely and upset over the move, Tansy escapes into her photography and the dark, seductive poems she finds hidden in the cellar, both of which lure her into the mind and world of a mysterious, troubled young man who died sixty years earlier.

_______________________________________________________

JENNIFER ARCHER

Want to know more about Jennifer Archer?

Visit her website(s):

- Website

- Blog

- Twitter

My Overstuffed Bookshelf's Ghost Town Re-Create a cover contest!

2010-10-22T19:33:00.004-05:00

Amy from My Over Stuffed Bookshelf is hosting a really awesome Re-Create a Cover contest! It is for Rachel Caine's new book, GHOST TOWN! I absolutely LOVE The Morganville Vampire series so I couldn't pass this up!

Here is the beautiful original cover!

And here is my cover! I know I didn't do it justice but mehhhh....

YA Spooktacular starts today!

2010-10-22T15:17:00.004-05:00

Today is the start of the first ever YA Spooktacular event, TALES FROM UNDER THE GRAVE!!

On October 29th, the grand prize packs will up for grabs! We have two of them--one for each story--and one for internationals. To enter them you must comment on every post in the story you are reading. We will be checking! When that day comes, you'll have to fill out an entry form here on my blog or on this one. You may enter for both Prize Packs by reading both stories!

You can win extra entries and extra prizes along the way by clicking on the TRICK or TREAT buttons that you see. All of the ToTs are optional but a great chance to win more prizes and entries! For all the rules, the full rundown click HERE.

If you don't know how this whole event works, here's the gist. We've compiled some great authors (known and aspiring) to write a spooky story. One author starts by writing 200-800 words, and then another adds. On and on until it ends. (Only, times it by two since there are two stories!) Basically...it's 7 days, 2 stories and more prizes than you can count! It all starts now.

Only TWO parts of each story will be posted every day so make sure the check back the next day to read the next two parts!

Story 1 is called DARKNESS and the amazing author Heather Brewer starts it off! To read it, visit Danielle's blog (Frenzy of Noise) HERE.

Part 2 of DARKNESS is by Kimberly Derting. To read it, visit Reading or Breathing.

Story 2 is called A SOUL LAID BARE and Mona Enderili starts it off! To read it, visit Page Turner's Blog HERE.

Part 2 of A SOUL LAID BARE is by the author of The Dark Divine, Bree Despain. To read it, visit FallenArchAngel.

Follow all the action on Twitter at #YAspooktacular

Teaser Tuesday (A Touch Mortal by Leah Clifford)

2010-10-19T11:48:00.003-05:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

~ Grab your current read
~ Open to a random page
~ Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
~ BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
~ Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

HEY GUYS! I know everyone is dying to read A TOUCH MORTAL by Leah Clifford, so I decided to do have my Teaser Tuesday on it!

My Teasers:

"Tippd off balance, his hands flailed through the empty air. There was no sound in the moment before gravity took over, when time froze, when she looked at him, where their eyes met.
He feel."

pg.51 "A Touch Mortal" by Leah Clifford

YA Spooktacular starts Friday!

2010-10-17T08:00:00.001-05:00

YAY! The first annual (hopefully) YA Spooktacular: Tales From Under the Grave starts this Friday. We are so excited. Now it's time to share some awesome information with you.

What is the YA Spooktacular? Stories! We have compiled TWO spooky YA stories by some of your favorite authors, debut authors and aspiring writers. You will get to trick-or-treat to other blogs and follow the story of your choice--or even both stories! At the end of the stories, you will have a chance to enter to win a grand prize pack! (We will even have a Book Depository gift card for international participants to win!)

Beware. Some of the blogs may contain a "Trick" or "Treat" along the way. These ToTs will give you the chance to earn extra entries into the grand prize giveaway and to win some more great prizes! Some of them will require nothing and some may cost.....your soul! muahhahahaha.

Ok. Not really. But the tricks are tricky! It's going to be a blast.

The rules are pretty simple:

*You must comment on EVERY post in a story to be eligible to win the grand prize pack.
*You MAY enter for both stories.
*The forms are a must to be entered.
*Winners will be selected at random.

We're so pumped about this event. We hope that you are too! Follow the hashtag on Twitter #YAspooktacular to get teasers that lead up to the story premiere on Friday, October 22. The last pieces of the stories will be posted on the 28th. The prize packs will go up on the 29th and the contest closes on the 31st. Basically, clear your calendar!

_____________________________________________________

Here is the list of bloggers that are hosting the parts of the story for us! You can follow them to make sure you are ready for the story.

http://frenzyofnoise.blogspot.com/
http://readingorbreathing.blogspot.com/
http://agoodaddiction.blogspot.com/
http://booklabyrinth.blogspot.com/
http://onceuponareview.blogspot.com/
http://papaerbackdolls.blogspot.com/
http://ataleofmanyreviews.blogspot.com/
http://thesecretlifeofabibliophile.blogspot.com/
http://booksandmakeup.blogspot.com/
http://tickettoanywhere.net/
http://yaaddict.blogspot.com/
http://mundiemoms.blogspot.com/
http://www.goodbooksandgoodwine.com/

http://www.pageturnersblog.com/
http://www.fallenarchangel.com/
http://yabreviewed.blogspot.com/
http://virginsheets.blogspot.com/
http://yabookiemonster.blogspot.com/
http://cladestinesanctuary.blogspot.com/
http://thesecretlifeofabibliophile.blogspot.com/
http://goddessofthelibrary.blogspot.com/
http://thebookscoop.com/
http://overflowingshelf.blogspot.com/
http://christinasbooks.blogspot.com/
http://www.readingteen.net/
http://abookadventure.blogspot.com/

In My Mailbox (16 & 17)

2010-10-17T00:15:00.001-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi from The Story Siren
and inspired by Alea from Pop Culture Junkie

Hey guys it's Saturday so that means...In My Mailbox time! I forgot to put an IMM up for last week so I will post the books I got last week in this one too!

This IMM should actually be called "IMM OF AWESOMENESS!!!"

For Review:
A Touch Mortal by Leah Clifford
Entwined by Heather Dixon

Firelight by Sophie Jordan (2nd copy)

Elixar by Hillary FREAKING Duff!!

Fixing Delilah by Sarah Ocklar (Teen Book Scene tour)

Angelfire by Courtney Allison Moulton (Teen Book Scene tour)

Won: Beautiful Darkness ARC by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl (SIGNED!!)BD Poster (signed)Swag
The Iron Daughter by Julie Kagawa

GOT BACK!My lovely ARC of Linger came back from tour! It got around a lot..dirty little thing :P

Gifted:
I was Jane Austen's Best Friend by Cora Harrison
A Time of Miracles by Anne-Laure BondouxA Crack in the Sky by Mark Peter HughesAlong the River by Adeline Yen Mah

` *Special thanks to Greenwillow Books, Teen Book Scene/Courtney Allison Moulton, S&S, Page Turners and Princess Bookie

It's that time of year again...

2010-10-14T09:54:00.003-05:00

That's right! I'm talking about Halloween!

Time to pop in your favorite Halloween movies and chow down on yummy candy! I absolutely love this time of yeae, some of my favorite movies are always playing on TV. Like Hocus Pocus! Who doesn't love that movie?

Of course, Nightmare Before Christmas goes on the list! My all-time FAVORITE!

And my future husband from Queen of the Damned, Lestat (Stuart Townsend)!

I know I have been slacking, again, with updates and reviews but I have been extremely busy. *sigh* Life. Also, I am getting ready for the YA Spooktacular Event, TALES FROM UNDER THE GRAVE.

I have been busy reading also!! I'm saving some paranormal reviews to put up during the event so I haven't completely forgot about that either. ;) Next week we will be posting little teasers for TALES FROM UNDER THE GRAVE, so make sure to follow #YASpooktacular on twitter!

And now I bring you the most awesome picture of all time!!!

Author Interview - Abra Ebner (Knight Angels Tour)

2010-10-12T10:08:00.002-05:00

Today I have the priviledge of introducing the author of the KNIGHT ANGELS series, Abra Ebner, who is stopping by on her book tour to do an interview!

The second book in her KNIGHT ANGELS series, Knight Angels: Book of Revenge , comes out this month!

____________________________________________________________

ABOUT ABRA EBNER
Abra Ebner was born in Seattle where she still lives. Growing up in the city, as well as the mountains of the North Cascades at her family cabin, has granted her the experience of a life full of creativity and magick. Her craving for adventure has taken her into the many reaches of the forest, instilling in her the beauty of a world not our own, in a place where anything can happen and will. Her studies in Australia, as well as travels to England, Scotland, Germany, and Switzerland, have also played as a colorful backdrop to her characters, experiences and knowledge.

Believe in a place where eternal love, magic, beauty and adventure are just the beginning.

Obtained her Bachelors of Arts degree in Design from Washington State University. She studied Art History extensively, and uses a lot of that knowledge when considering her books.

She graduted with Honors, including one semester spent at the Queensland College of Art in Australia.

__________________________________________________________

Visit Abra Ebner on her website(s):

-Website
-Blog
-Twitter
-Facebook
-Goodreads
___________________________________________________________

*INTERVIEW*

Q) What got you started writing?

I got started writing journals when I was really young. I have tons of them now, and I love thumbing through the stories from time to time. Let me tell you, I was boy crazy as a teen, ha ha. I had hundreds of love interests! It kept my journals full! But anyway, what got me started writing stories was dread for a 9-5 job. I had one, oh yes, I had a quintessential dream job, benefits, retirement, and paid vacation, but I hated normalcy, and I always have. My drive to get out of that encouraged me to put the many stories in my head on paper. Now, I can't imagine doing anything else. I love the task of creating. I was put here to create, and that's just what I'll do!

Q) How did you come up with the idea for Knight Angels?

Knight Angels was a natural story for me to write. When I was seventeen, my on again off again boyfriend died in a car crash. Since then I've often thought of angels and love. Knight Angels was my opportunity to tie off some inner frayed ends I still had over the event. Writing as therapy.

Q) Was it easy writing in multiple point of views?

No. I get so confused. The worst is when the editing begins and I read the story about once a day. Everything bleeds together. I think it's would be easiest to write like this if I never slept, never put the computer down, and never stopped telling myself who's voice I was on. I guess the reprieve is having all my characters be so different. That helps me keep things straight, in a way. Character voice is a powerful tool.

Q) Do you relate to any of your characters?

I relate the most to my main character, and in the case of Knight Angels, that means many. I think that each main character is a different side of my personality. I've always been a bit of a chameleon, dated the popular kid, friends with the snowboard rats, and bratty with the horse girls. I did a lot of activities growing up, and each came with their own set of friends. personalities, and expectations. I guess I learned a lot about a lot, at least in terms of people.

Q) What is your writing process like?

It's pretty straight forward. I start with an idea of which usually keeps me entertained the nights my husband snores until three a.m.. Within that time, I usually come up with a few strong opening sentences that I ingrain in my head or type feverishly into the iPhone plugged into the wall with a cord too short (meaning I lean awkwardly, and for no real reason do I do this except that my sleeping husband tends to sleep talk/walk if he senses the light of the phone screen in his sleeping vicinity, and I'm really bad at charging my phone during the day, so it has to remain plugged if it hopes to live). The next day I then start writing the story, and it grows from there. I don't like outlines, they feel restrictive.

Q) Are there any other projects you are working on?

There are! I have a children's book I've written and am now illustrating. I went to art school, and have always loved pencil drawings. It's been a long term goal of mine to do this for a while. Then, I also have another paranormal love story that's sort of taken my breath away. It's a short story, but one I couldn't stop thinking about for weeks on end. I figured this was a sign. It's a unique, extremely different kind of story that breaks the character mold. I'm very excited to release it next year. Right now, I call it "Ladybird, Ladybird..."

_______________________________________________________________

AVAILABLE NOW!

Knight Angels: Book of Revenge by Abra Ebner
Genre: Young Adult Fiction
Releases: October 2010
Publisher: Oak Creek Publishing

New characters, New world, but old enemies. Emily struggles to ignore a new friend with emotions that temp her, Wes delves deeper into his past and family while finding friendship isn't reserved for the human race alone, Jane finds out her dear Max isn't what he seems, Gregs friendships cost him more than he expected, and Max forgets that the truth is best. But then again, someone always has to be the liar...
Emotional baggage, begrudged enemies, and the bitterness that comes when the honeymoon of their friendship fades...
Will the love survive, or as it all just a game?

____________________________________________________________

Get the first book in the KNIGHT ANGELS series, Book of Love, in stores at:

* Amazon * Barnes & Noble * Book Depository*

Review: Heavenly by Jennifer Laurens

2010-10-07T12:42:00.003-05:00

Title: Heavenly
Author: Jennifer Laurens
Published: August 15th, 2009
Pages: 296
Rating: 5 flowers
Summary:
I met someone who changed everything. Matthias. My autistic sister's guardian angel. Honest. Inspiring. Funny. Hot. And immortal. That was the problem. What could I do? I did what any other girl would do-I fell in love with him. Zoë's sister darts in front of cars. Her brother's a pothead. Her parents are so overwhelmed; they don't see Zoë lost in her broken life. Zoë escapes the only way she knows how: partying. Matthias, a guardian sent from Heaven, watches over Zoë's autistic sister. After Zoë is convinced he's legit, angel and lost girl come together in a love that changes destiny. But Heaven on Earth can't last forever.

My Thoughts:

HEAVENLY is such an emotional, touching story that gives readers an insight on powerful family bonds and self-discovery.

I was so happy when Jennifer Laurens send me a review copy of this book. She even signed it for me! I had heard mixed things about Heavenly so I wanted to see for myself if it was going to be one of my most recommended reads of 2010 (even though it came out last year). Needless to say, it definitely became one of them!

Zoe's life has been a constant struggle ever since her 5-year-old sister, Abria, was diagnosed with autism. Her parents are so overwhelmed with the responsibility of having a child with autism that they don't really pay as much attention to their two older children. Zoe and her brother, Luke, turn to other things like alcohol and drugs to get away from the overwhelming life at home with their little sister. Then she meets Matthias, who not only captures her heart but begins to bring her back down the right path.

I don't want to give too much away about the plot but I can say that the story is absolutely beautiful and the characters were well written. At first, I did not like Zoe. She seemed to be just a little selfish in the brat department. Always talking about how much she hated living with Abria. As I read more into the book, I began to like her better and even sympathized with her. You get to see how hard it must be to live with a little child who has autism. It definietely is a consatant struggle since Abria has no sense of danger, so that is where Matthias comes in. Abria's gaurdian angel. I loved the way Jennifer Laurens portrayed him. I wish I had a Matthias of my own. *insert long sigh here*

Overall, HEAVENLY is such a heavenly book if you are looking for a quick but life-changing read. And the ending! OH MY GOSH! It had me in tears! I was so upset I didn't have the second book on hand with me. I can't wait till I buy the second. This is definitely a book that after you finish reading, you will ditch your TBR pile in order to read the second book right away!

______________________________________________________

(Other books in the series)

PENITENCE ------------ ABSOLUTION

April 29th, 2010 ---------- October 1st, 2010

In My Mailbox (September 26- Oct. 2)

2010-10-03T08:55:00.005-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi from The Story Siren
and inspired by Alea from Pop Culture Junkie
Hey guys! So I keep trying do make an IMM vlog for you guys (on my phone) but it always turns out really bad. So I might just wait till I either get a new laptop OR a webcam.
Anyway, let's talk about books!

I only got one book for review this week AND a secret box of goodies :)
Review:
Ghost Town (Morganville Vampires #9) by Rachel Caine

Swag:
cute little temp. tattoss and bookmarks!!!

THE SECRET BOX OF GOODIES!!

` *Special thanks to Sarah/Rachel Caine and secret publisher (for now) :)

Review: Portal by Imogen Rose

2010-10-02T08:58:00.000-05:00

Title: Portal
Author: Imogen Rose
Published: January 23, 2010
Pages: 350
Rating: 5 flowers
Summary:
Six words that propelled ice hockey playing tomboy, Arizona, into an alternate dimension. In one moment she went from being an ice hockey playing teenager in New Jersey to a glamorous cheerleader in California.
She found herself with a new dad. She found herself in a new life. One that she had apparently lived in always. Everyone knew her as Arizona Darley, but she isn't.
She was Arizona Stevens.
She knew she had to find her way back to her real life, to her real dad.
Then she met Kellan.

My Thoughts:

PORTAL is a sci-fi young adult romance that is a must-read if you are looking for lots of mystery and twists.

First off, Imogen Rose is one of the sweetest and nicest authors I have ever "virtually" meet! So it is a definite no wonder why her book is as equally amazing! I was hooked from the very first 6 lines in the book.

"Come find me two years ago..."

Its not everyday you see a young adult time-travel romance novel. I really enjoyed the premise. So Imogen Rose sure outdid herself in the originality department. And the end result became one of my favorite books of 2010!

PORTAL starts off leaving the reader in a cloud of confusion, wanting to know more and more thus eagerly waiting to flip the page. I must admit I tried really hard not to make my eyes wander down the page. Our main character, Arianna Stevens wakes up to find herself in a completely new life and even year! She is not only a cheerleader and blonde, but her last name is now Darley. She fits right in to her new life but only because she doesn't want anyone to think she is a complete lunatic.

The characters were very well formed and realistic. All I want to say is "MMM Kellan!" The romance and spark between Arizona and Kellan had me absolutely hating Arizona. Just because I wanted Kellan all to myself :P

Overall, PORTAL was one of those books that I was glad I had the second book in the series on hand with me. Well, more like in my room. I literally ran up the stairs, when I was done, to start reading it. I don't want to give too much away about the story but I highly recommend it to all sci-fi, young adult and dare I say it, Twilight fans!

Tales From Under The Grave - A YA Spooktacular Event

2010-09-29T17:27:00.008-05:00

From ghoulies and ghosties,

And long-leggedy beasties,

And things that go bump in the night...

It's almost that time of year! Yes, I'm talking about HALLOWEEN!

Next month is going to be amazing with all the events, giveaways and all things Halloween going on.

Danielle @ Frenzy Of Noise and I, are going to be hosting a Spooktacular Halloween event featuring some of our favorite things! Authors, reviews, mini-challenges, giveaways, "trick-or-treating", ghost stories and CANDY!!!

With that said, we are excited to bring you the first ever....

October 22nd - October 31st

Sounds awesome right!? More details to come once the event date gets closer and trust me, you don't want to miss it!

(You can follow #YASpooktacular on twitter if you want some as-they-happen spoilers.)
Twitter: @daniellebunner OR @onceuponareview

The Spooktacular Bloggers Participating:

Ashley - Book Labyrinth

Christina - Chrisina's Books

Courtney - Courtney Reads

Dani - Overflowing Shelf

Gail - Ticket to Anywhere

Julie - A Tale of Many Reviews

Kari - A Good Addiction

Kelsey - Reading or Breathing

Lesley - YA Books Reviewed

Sarah - Godess of the Library

ATTENTION AUTHORS!!! WE ARE CURRENTLY LOOKING FOR MORE YA AUTHORS TO WRITE A 200-600 WORD PIECE OF A SHORT STORY WITH OTHER AUTHORS.

If you know an author you think would be interested please contact us and let us know! Thanks!

_________________________________________________________________

*If you are an author and would like to participate in this event or would like more details, please email talesfromunderthegrave(at)gmail(dot)com.

*If you are an author or publisher and would like to donate,
please email talesfromunderthegrave(at)gmail(dot)com.

Teaser Tuesday (Intrinsical by Lani Woodland)

2010-09-28T23:46:00.000-05:00

"I knew a ghost was near. My hands felt suddenly frostbitten, my teeth chattered, and the glass near me fogged. Sweat trickled down my neck and my lungs felt like they were caught in a trash compacter."

pg.93 "Intrinsical" by Lani Woodland

Review: Nightshade by Andrea Cremer

2010-09-27T21:23:00.001-05:00

Title: Nightshade
Author: Andrea Cremer
Published: October 19, 2010
Pages: 464
Rating: 5 flowers
Summary:
Calla Tor has always known her destiny: After graduating from the Mountain School, she'll be the mate of sexy alpha wolf Ren Laroche and fight with him, side by side, ruling their pack and guarding sacred sites for the Keepers. But when she violates her masters' laws by saving a beautiful human boy out for a hike, Calla begins to question her fate, her existence, and the very essence of the world she has known. By following her heart, she might lose everything--including her own life. Is forbidden love worth the ultimate sacrifice?

My Thoughts:

NIGHTSHADE is a captivating story full of romance, suspense and mystery that will leave you dying to read the next book.

All I want to do is go on and on about how much I absolutely LOVE this book! This was another book I was dying to read and I was so so so happy I got the chance to before it came out. It is definitely not like any other book I have read. NIGHTSHADE has a truly original premise. Andrea Cremer's world of Guardians and Keepers, had me turning every page with anticipation. It is now one of my favorite 2010 debut novels.

NIGHTSHADE has it all. Romance, mystery, action, drama, realistic characters; everything that a great paranormal read should have. It definetly exceeded my expectations. Cremer's writing is beautifully done. She definetly leaves readers thinking with all the secrets and mysteries going on. The action scenes were outstanding, it felt like I was watching the whole thing happen before my eyes.

The love triangle had me going back and forth between the love interests. I still don't know who I like more. There's Ren, (OMG!) the sexy alpha male play boy and Shay, the new boy at school who Calla saves. At first I didn't even see Shay as competition until almost toward the middle of the book, then I was as confused as Calla was! Andrea Cremer knows how to create some sexy characters! Calla was my favorite. I absolutely love strong female protagonists.

Overall, NIGHTSHADE is a book that I think every paranormal fan will love. I don't want to give to much away about the plot so i'll just tell you that you DON'T want to skip out on reading this book! Andrea Cremer's new world of werewolves will have anyone counting down the days, waiting for the next book in the series. I know I am!

In My Mailbox (past few weeks)

2010-09-27T12:07:00.010-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi from The Story Siren
and inspired by Alea from Pop Culture Junkie

I haven't had internet the past few weeks so I haven't been able to share with everyone what I've been getting so for my IMM this week I am going to do it on the books I got those past weeks too.

I really wanted to do a Vlog but OH MY GOSH! There were so many books and it ended up being like 10 mins long so ill just do a regular post for now. :)

WARNING: EPIC-ness of books below, not for the faint-hearted :P

For Review:
Knight Angels: Book of Love by Abra EbnerKnight Angels: Book of Revenge by Abra EbnerParanormalcy by Keirsten WhiteHeist Society by Ally CarterIntrinsical by Lani WoodlandDead Beautiful by Yvonne WoonRomeo & Juliet & Vampires by Claudia GabelDemonglass by Rachel Hawkins (!!!)Blood & Flowers by Penny BlubaughHeavenly by Jennifer LaurensNightshade by Andrea Cremer
Bought:Firelight by Sophie JordanRadiance by Alyson Noel
Won:
Torment by Lauren KateNightshade by Andrea Cremer (signed!!!)
You Wish ARC by Mandy Hubbard
Prada & Prejudice by Many Hubbard My Little Pony! (not pictured)
ARC Tours:
The Replacement by Brenna Yovanoff
Gifted:
Clockwork Angel ARC by Cassandra Clare from Lori
Fallen by Lauren Kate from Kari :)

Got from other bloggers:(I did not buy the ARCs, just paid for shipping)

Dead Sexy by Tate HallawayTall, Dark & Sexy by Tate HallawayRomancing the Dead by Tate HallawayDead If I Do by Tate HallawayFallout by Ellen HopkinsKarma Bites by Stacey KramerSleepless by Cyn BalogVampire Kisses by Ellen SchreiberKissing Coffins by Ellen SchreiberThe Dark Divine by Bree DespainInfinite Days by Rebecca MaizelSapphique by Catherine FisherRules of Attraction by Simone ElkelesBlood Oath by Christopher Farnsworth

Swag:
Lots of swag from the Smart Chicks Kick It Tour!! :)

So that was my amazing few weeks of EPIC-ness!
Special thanks to: HarperCollins, HaperTeen, Disney-Hyperion, Lani Woodland-Pedrell Publishing, Anread Cremer, Jennifer Laurens, Abra Ebner, Mandy Hubbard, Lori, Kari, Tori, Monica and all the Smart Chicks in The Woodlands!

Contest Craze Mini-Challenge #1

2010-09-26T20:21:00.002-05:00

Hey everyone! Cindy @ Princess Bookie is having an amazing event, Contest Craze. During each mini challenge, all you have to do is participate and one lucky winner will win an ARC prize pack!

The first Mini Challenge consists cf:
Name Your Top 5 Books of 2011
-Make a blog post and tell me your top 5 most wanted books of 2011! And, why you want them!
-This should take some serious thought!
-You can include the book cover or just the title-author if you want!

MY TOP 5 BOOKS OF 2011!

This was really hard trying to narrow down all of the amazing books coming out next year to only 5 favorite choices!

#1 THE IRON QUEEN by Julie Kagawa (February 1st, 2011)

OMG! I am sooo excited for the last novel in Kagawa's Iron Fey series! It is by far on of my top 3 favorite young adult series. In the IRON DAUGHTER, Kagawa left me literally pulling out my hair because I didn't want it to end!

#2 CITY OF FALLEN ANGELS by Cassandra Clare (April 5th, 2011)

Of course Cassandra Clare's next TMI book is in my top 5! She is like the Queen of YA! I absolutley love her books. I cant wait to see what happens next!

#3 DARKEST MERCY by Melissa Marr (February 22nd, 2011)

This is by far my favorite cover of Marr's. This series is also in my top 3, along with TMI too, and Im sad but excited to read the last book in her Fey series.

#4 ANGELFIRE by Courtney Allison Moulton (February 15th, 2011)

Oh wow, what to say about this book! I have been wanting to read this ever since it popped up on Goodreads! After hearing so many great things about it I am definetly going to be counting down the days till it comes over. Beautiful cover too!

#5 SECRETS AND SHADOWS by Shannon Delany (February 15th, 2011)

Whoever has not read 13 TO LIFE yet needs to read it now! Shannon Delany is a very talented debut author who's book has found its way into my heart and one of my top favorite books. She left us with a major cliff ending so again, I am pulling out my hair to find out what happens next!

It was a hard decision but I did it! These five books are definetly going to be making there way onto my bookshelf next year! (And thet almost all come out at the same time! YAY!)

Winners, winners, winners!

2010-09-23T21:53:00.002-05:00

So instead of posting the winners for a few of the contests this morning, I decided to wait till I got the chance to have them all picked! So here you are! Thanks everyone for being patient ;)

I have emailed the winners. They will have 48 hours to respond or I will have to pick new winners! (Besides the Louder Than Words book winners)

Infinite Days Swag: postcards

Monica P.

Jeremy West

Throutehaze

Julie Kagawa doodled bookplates:

Ashley M.

Louder Than Words Books:

Rae, Alexis and Hannah - Desilula
Rae - Beverly @ The Wormhole

Alexis - Kaitlyn in Bookland

Hannah - Kailia Sage

Ondine by Ebony Mckenna:

Katelyn from The Book Sophisticate

Amanda Hocking Giveaway:

My Blood Approves book - Robin K. (Intense Whisper)
Inspired T-shirt - Britny A.

___________________________________________________________

Tomorrow, my MEGA Birthday Giveaway was suppose to end but since I just now got my computer back up and running, I am extending to deadline to September 30st - 11:59pm EST.

So go hurry and enter.

Good Luck!

I'm back!

2010-09-22T16:38:00.002-05:00

Today I finally got my new laptop charger in! After getting the wrong one the first time, I finally found the right one. Ha! I am so sorry for the major lack of reviews and contest winner announcements. I will be picking winners tonight and have them all announced hopefully in the morning if not I will at least have some done! Thank you to all my followers who have stuck around and waited patiently to see who my contest winners were. You all are the best!

Reviews to come!

Nightshade by Andrea Cremer

Why Ive been gone...

2010-09-06T15:21:00.002-05:00

Hey guys, sorry for the major lack of updates! On the 30th my brother decided to break the laptop charger. So I haven't been able to get on the computer since the, just on my phone. As soon as I'm able to get another charger I will catch up on reviews and picking winners for the contest ls that have ended.

If you have yet to enter, please feel free to enter late and ill accept those entries.
Thank you everyone and I hope you all stick around!

Im still able to check my email and update on twitter!

Dusk till Dawn Read-A-Thon Update and Challenge!

2010-08-29T18:52:00.006-05:00

UPDATE AND MY READ-A-THON CHALLENGE

Tonight is the last night of the From Dusk Till Dawn Read-A-Thon hosted by the lovely Jenn from Book Crazy and Jami from YA Addict.

The Read-A-Thon was from
August 25th - August 29th
8 PM until 8 AM each day!!

During the five days, 19 bloggers have hosted challenges and had some pretty amazing prizes for participants to win!

_________________________________________________________

I haven't updated as much as I thought I would so let me give everyone a break down of the books I have read the past 4 nights for the Read-A-Thon
Night #1 - Started MATCHED by Ally CondieNight #2- Finished MATCHEDNight #3- Started reading Amy & Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan MatsonNight #4- Finished Amy & Roger's Epic Detour and started reading HALO.
For tonight (the last night) I will hopefully be finshing HALO by Alexandra Adornetto.I thought I would get more books read but *shrugs* real life got in the way.

___________________________________________________________

MY READ-A-THON CHALLENGE!

So for the challenge I want you guys to be creative. I want you to draw your favorite scene from a book, write a poem about your favorite character, remake your favorite book cover entirely or find a song that best describes your favorite book.

You don't have to be a talented artist since i'm picking the winner based on randomly

(I will put up the winning entry if the winner wants)

But you can get extra entries depending on which one you do!

+4 drawing a favorite scene from a book
+4 remake the cover of one of your favorite books
+3 writting a poem about your favorite character
+2 find a song that best decribes your book and tell me why

Entries will be accepted up until Wednesday morning!

Winner will win paperback copies of:

Faerie Path by Frewin Jones
The Lost Queen (Faerie Path #2) by Frewin Jones
The Seventh Daughter (Faerie Path #3) by Frewin Jones

Leave your link in Mister Linky below and let the creating begin :)

In My Mailbox (August 15th-28th

2010-08-29T13:03:00.004-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi from The Story Siren
and inspired by Alea from Pop Culture Junkie

Hey guys! So I didn't do an IMM for last week so this week will be for that week and this week!
It was a little slow for mail but I did buy some awesome books!
(I'll put pics up later whenever I get my camera to work)

For Review:

Halo by Alexandra Adornetto (Starbook tours)

Mieradome by Kate O'Hegarty

The Hunted of 2060 by Ami Rebecca Blackwelder

Amy & Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson (from Candace)

Bought:

Beautiful Dead by Eden Maguire

The Demon in Me by Michelle Rowan

City of Glass (HC) by Cassandra Clare

The Vampire Diaries: The Awakening and The Struggle by L.J. Smith

Recieved from the awesome Cindy of Princess Bookie:

MATCHED by Ally Condie

(eeeepp! Thank you thank you!)

` *Special thanks to Cindy, Kate O'Hegarty, Ami Rebecca Blackwelder and Candace

Books for Sale/Trade!!

2010-08-28T01:14:00.005-05:00

Okay so I have way to many books I either have doubles of (some even triples) or I just need to get rid of! Period! So I'm will to either trade or sell. First come, first serve on the selling by if people have something to trade then i'll consider them first. Sorry guys, I just love getting new books though!

This will be a US only thing unless you want to pay for the shipping!

If you buy in bulk, I'll work out the prices.

CLICK HERE TO LOOK AT THE BOOKS FOR SELL/TRADE!

I will be updating this list frequently so keep checking back to see if there are any NEW books added!

I will also let people know on my Twitter when books are added.

From Dusk Till Dawn Read-A-Thon! (Night #1)

2010-08-25T22:34:00.004-05:00

WOOO! IT'S TIME FOR A READ-A-THON!

Tonight is the start of the From Dusk Till Dawn Read-A-Thon hosted by the lovely Jenn from Book Crazy and Jami from YA Addict.

The Read-A-Thon will be from
August 25th - August 29th

8 PM until 8 AM each day!!

During the five days, 19 bloggers will be hosting challenges and have chance at winning some awesome prizes!

So check out Jenn and Jami's blogs to sign up and join in on the late night fun!

Because book are the perfect midnight-snack!

_________________________________________________________

For tonight I will be concentrating on finishing MATCHED by Ally Condie.

If I finish that I might start on AMY AND ROGER'S EPIC DETOUR by Morgan Matson.

Watch out on the 29th for my Read-A-Thon challenge!

Author Guest Post & Giveaway: Ebony Mckenna (Ondine blog tour)

2010-08-24T19:05:00.011-05:00

Today I have the pleasure of introducing the author of ONDINE, Ebony Mckenna, who is stopping by to do a guest post for her blog tour! Check out my review HERE.

Her debut novel, ONDINE, is available now!

____________________________________________________________

How a ferret became a hero

I never set out to write a novel about ferrets, yet from the moment an idea popped into my head about an animal that changed into a Scottish lad in the moonlight (with fireflies) I knew I had to write the story down.

But initially, the pet was a rat and not a ferret.

This idea lasted only a short time, before another animal took the rat’s place in my mind. A ferret.

Rats can make fabulous pets - but as I was playing with the ideas, I knew rats couldn’t excite me and make me laugh the way a ferret could.

I also felt I’d have an uphill battle giving a rat enough personality. And they’d been used in popular fiction plenty of times already. Templeton from Charlotte’s Web, Reepacheep in Prince Caspian, along with plenty of rats in the movies Ratatouille, and Ben. Rats are loyal and intelligent animals, but they are often used as the bad guys. I didn’t feel a rat could become a romantic hero. Other than to another rat. And this was not a rat book.

But then when the animal became a ferret, it felt so right. A few weeks earlier I’d seen a tv show about ferrets and they were so lively, rambunctious and full of personality. It’s as if they were designed for comedy. Racing down drainpipes, leaping about, chasing food, snuggling their owners. Oh they are sooooooo cute! I’d never had a ferret as a pet - which probably helped because if I’d known what they were really like I might never have written the book! Ferrets spend most of their days sleeping! How could a sleepyhead become a hero?

Ignorance, in my case, was complete bliss.

My mind raced to think of all the cheeky things ferrets could do. Because they were small and agile, they could sneak up under the eaves and spy on people. A talking ferret would be perfect for espionage.

I had another idea that Shambles could talk to other animals, like mice and rats, and bribe them with cheese. I can remember thinking Shambles would say, ‘they’re mad for gorgonzola.’ That storyline didn’t end up happening, but it was fun playing around with the idea.

Here’s another thing. I had no idea, when I was daydreaming about the girl in the night with an animal on her shoulder, that the animal would turn into a man. It was one of those strange things that played out in a daydream. The fact he changed, and was naked in the moonlight, made me grin from ear to ear.

But when he spoke? That got my attention! His Scottish accent made me smile even more. I love the people, the wicked humour and the country. My family heritage goes back to Scotland, which is handy. They have the funniest insults in the world. Plus, at the time I started writing Ondine, the delicious Scot David Tennant had just taken over the TV role of Dr Who.

OK, so now I had my ferret hero, but to be a true hero he had to be heroic. There were a few times when he was heroically stupid, and he made me laughed out loud. But he also shares a deep and abiding bond with Ondine. And as all heroes do, he makes some mistakes but he comes good in the end because his heart is pure.

As he grows to love Ondine, he also understands that he needs to be good enough for her. He steps up, he’s responsible not just for saving Ondine but her whole family - and by doing that he is the only one worthy of Ondine’s love (and I think Ondine is the only girl worthy of him too. I swear, if I were 20 years younger, I’d be so jealous of Ondine!)

The mind does strange things - and the mind of a writer can be a very strange place. I have never been able to explain how I get ideas, only that I do get plenty of them, often when I’m least expecting them and they surprise me with how bizarre they are.

Reading the book in published state, it might seem as if all the ideas sprang forth, fully formed. But there were many ideas that were left out in the process, and some didn’t come along until many revisions later.

But I am so very grateful that a kooky furball, bursting with personality, jumped out of my brain that day and won my heart. I hope he wins yours as well.

____________________________________________________________

ABOUT EBONY MCKENNA
Ebony McKenna lives in Melbourne, Australia with her husband and young son.

She has worked as an award winning journalist, market researcher, waitress, website contributor, accounts manager and company director.

In high school McKenna excelled in English and Literature, earning herself a place in the journalism course at Melbourne's RMIT University.

In the 1990s she worked as a journalist on many leading Melbourne newspapers. She won many awards - including scooping first and second place in the one night for best news report. By day she wrote other people's stories, but by night she plotted epic adventures.

Now she writes novels for a living.

__________________________________________________________

Visit Ebony Mckenna on her website(s):

-Website
-Blog
-Twitter
-Facebook

_______________________________________________________________

AVAILABLE NOW!

VISIT EBONY'S WEBSITE FOR ALL THE PLACES TO BUY ONDINE:

* HERE *

ONDINE by Ebony Mckenna
Genre: Middle Grade Fiction
Published: April 5th, 2010
Publisher: Egmont Books Ltd

This is a brilliantly witty story with a furry tail ending. One girl. One boy. One spell to be broken. Ondine de Groot is a normal fifteen-year-old who lives with her family in the European country of Brugel. She has a pet ferret called Shambles. But Shambles is no ordinary ferret...He's Hamish McPhee, a boy cursed by a witch. A witch who happens to be related to Ondine. When Shambles turns back into Hamish temporarily, Ondine knows that she has to help him break the spell. He is the most gorgeous boy she has ever met and her one true love! He just can't remain a ferret forever. Can he?

COMING FEBRUARY 2011!

Ondine: The Autumn Palace by Ebony Mckenna

_____________________________________________________________

GIVEAWAY!

Ebony has kindly provided me with an extra copy of ONDINE to giveaway to one luck winner!

Rules are simple!

*Leave a comment below telling me what your favorite animal is.*

CONTEST RULES:
-US/CANDA only
-Winner will be chosen using Random.org
-Ends September 10th, 11:59 p.m. EST

You do not have to be a follower to enter, so there will be no extra entries!

Make sure to leave your email address so I can contact you!

MEGA Contest Update! (NEVERMORE added!)

2010-08-24T17:20:00.006-05:00

Mmmm isn't he sexy? ;)

Hey guys! I reached 250 followers on the blog so that mean...contest update! There will now be a FOURTH winner added to the contest that will recieve 1 book!

Thank you everyone for your support and I'm really glad you are as excited about this contest as I am!

GO HERE FOR ALL OF THE CONTEST DETAILS AND TO ENTER!

________________________________________________________

~~If I get to 250 followers on the blog, another winner will be added to get 1 book!~~

If I get 275 followers, the fourth winner will be able to get 2 books!

If I get 300 followers, I will make up 3 more prize pack options. (I like the #3) ;)

_____________________________________________________

Let's refresh your memory!

THE PRIZES!

Prize Pack #1

ARC of The DUFF by Kody Keplinger
Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare

Prize Pack #2

ARC of Deception by Lee Nichols
The Eternal Ones by Kirsten Miller

Prize Pack #3

Almost to Die For by Tate Hallaway

Paranormalcy by Kiersten White

Prize Pack #4

Halo by Alexandra Adornetto

You Wish by Mandy Hubbard

---------------------------------

FOURTH WINNER WILL RECIEVE THIS BOOK!

Nevermore by Kelly Creagh

______________________________________________________

*All the books, besides the ARC, are the FINAL copies.*

Teaser Tuesday (MATCHED by Ally Condie)

2010-08-24T06:52:00.002-05:00

"I did not expect to love his words. I did not expect to find myself in them.
Is falling in love with someone's story the same thing as falling in love with the person himself?"

pg.196 "MATCHED" by Ally Condie

Review: Ondine by Ebony Mckenna (Blog Tour)

2010-08-23T14:09:00.006-05:00

Title: Ondine
Author: Ebony Mckenna
Published: April 5th, 2010
Pages: 336
Rating: 4 flowers
Summary:
This is a brilliantly witty story with a furry tail ending. One girl. One boy. One spell to be broken. Ondine de Groot is a normal fifteen-year-old who lives with her family in the European country of Brugel. She has a pet ferret called Shambles. But Shambles is no ordinary ferret...He's Hamish McPhee, a boy cursed by a witch. A witch who happens to be related to Ondine. When Shambles turns back into Hamish temporarily, Ondine knows that she has to help him break the spell. He is the most gorgeous boy she has ever met and her one true love! He just can't remain a ferret forever. Can he?

My Thoughts:

ONDINE is a quick, humorous read that makes for a fabulous debut book.

I'm not one to read middle grade books, but I'm glad I read this one! It was just a fun little fairytale set in the fictional country of Brugel that mixes talking ferretts, dukes, witches and Physic Summercamp.

The book is full of humor and wit, it had me laughing all the way. On some of the pages there are little footnotes which I thought were absolutely funny. Although the characters weren't that fleshed out for me, Shambles was my favorite. He is such a 'cheeky' character with a little mouth on him but he is so loveable. I kept imagining a scottish-talking ferrett throught the book and it had me laughing. I loved getting to know more about Ondine's family (who I certainly would not put up with), as well as Ondine and Shambles.

It was kind of hard to get into the writing in the begining but after a few chapters, ONDINE grew on me. The storyline flowed pretty easily. I was able to finish it in one sitting, which is good!

The cover is absolutely gorgeous and shiny! The girl doesn't really resemble Ondine but she is still a good fit for the cover. The second book in the series has a gorgeous cover also!

Over, I would definetly recommend ONDINE to all young readers out there because it such a fun, fairtytale-esque story. Ebony Mckenna knows how to make her readers laugh out loud with her witty characters. I can't wait to find out more about Ondine and Hamish (Shambles in human form) in her second book, THE AUTUMN PALACE, coming out February 2011!

*Received from Ebony Mckenna as part of a blog tour for an honest review.*

Review: The DUFF by Kody Keplinger

2010-08-22T18:59:00.005-05:00

Title: The DUFF
Author: Kody Keplinger
Published: September 7, 2010
Pages: 288
Rating: 5 flowers
Summary:
Seventeen-year-old Bianca Piper is cynical and loyal, and she doesn't think she's the prettiest of her friends by a long shot. She's also way too smart to fall for the charms of man-slut and slimy school hottie Wesley Rush. In fact, Bianca hates him. And when he nicknames her "Duffy," she throws her Coke in his face.
But things aren't so great at home right now. Desperate for a distraction, Bianca ends up kissing Wesley. And likes it. Eager for escape, she throws herself into a closeted enemies-with-benefits relationship with Wesley.
Until it all goes horribly awry. It turns out that Wesley isn't such a bad listener, and his life is pretty screwed up, too. Suddenly Bianca realizes with absolute horror that she's falling for the guy she thought she hated more than anyone.

My Thoughts:

THE DUFF is an emotional, thrilling ride that will leave your eyes glued to every page.

I was so excited when I received this book in the mail! I had heard mixed reviews on it so I was dying to see for myself if THE DUFF was going to be worth the read. And trust me, it was!

The writing style in the beginning made my eyes wonder off but it quickly picked up and became very hard to put down. THE DUFF is a well paced book. Not too slow and not too fast. I loved the premise for the book. Seventeen year old Bianca self-perceives herself as "The DUFF" when major hottie Wesley refers her by "Duffy" at a club. After that, Bianca can't seem to get the name out of her head. She ends up using him (in a sexual sense) as an escape from reality but ends up falling for him, only adding to the problems she's trying to escape from.

Even though Bianca is hilarious, cynical and has an awesome sense of sarcasm, I didn't like her that much. I think the fact that she cursed almost every two pages did it in for me. I mean, I understand with her situation it was kind of to be expected, but I thought it was a little too much. She still was a realistic character to me. I couldn't relate to everything about her but I still found myself knowing exactly what she was going through.

Wesley on the other hand, was my favorite character! He was definitely swoon-worthy!

Overall, THE DUFF was an amazing book that surpasses the other young adult books out there because it deals with some of the real issues young adults actually go through. I think Kody Keplinger's writing style is beautifully done and very desriptive. Being a teen herself sure did give her an upperhand on mastering all the teen issues perfectly. She wasn't afraid to write about the topics that are barely even mentioned in other young adult novels; like alcoholism, insecurities and sex. I loved THE DUFF with a passion and I am looking forward to more of Kody Keplinger's work!

*Received from Poppy/Little Brown for an honest review.*

Author Guest Post & Giveaway: Amanda Hocking (My Blood Approves)

2010-08-22T11:48:00.011-05:00

Today for the August Blogger Birthday Bash, I have the pleasure of introducing the author of the MY BLOOD APPROVES SERIES, Amanda Hocking, who is stopping by again for the event to do a guest post and throw in a little giveaway!

The fourth book in her My Blood Approves series, WISDOM, comes out TODAY! (August 22nd!)

____________________________________________________________

BIRTHDAY MEMORIES!

My birthday is in the middle of July, and I always felt gypped when I was a kid. During the school year, kids would hand out invitations to most of the kids in the class for there parties, and they would big deals.

But mine was in the summer, and I never had the forsight to get my classmates phone numbers or addresses, so I had like three friends and my cousins at my parties.

I think that’s why as an adult, I always make a big deal out of them. I plan them months in advance so I can invite people as soon as I can. This year, I sent out e-vites back in March for an event on July 17th.

Because I’m a movie buff and blockbusters usually come out around July 4th, I’ve had a lot of movie themed birthday parties. Once it was The Lion King, and I was so excited to see it that I threw up on the way to the theater. I also had a Jurassic Park party two years in a row. I was that cool.

For my eighteenth birthday, I dyed my hair blue, got a tattoo, and saw Reign of Fire with Christian Bale. Well, the movie starrred Christian Bale. I didn’t see it with him. If I had, that would probably be the best birthday ever.

As a kid, I hated having a summer birthday, but now I love it. Because of Christmas and my birthday, I get presents every six months. Plus, its summer, so I can go camping or go to amusement parks or do just about anything I want.

But whenever your birthday is and no matter how old you get, you should always make a big deal out of it. It’s the one day of the year to celebrate you, and that’s pretty awesome.

___________________________________________________________

Visit Amanda Hocking on her website(s):

-Blog
-Twitter
-Goodreads
___________________________________________________________

AVAILABLE AUGUST 22nd, 2010!

Wisdom (My Blood Approves #4) by Amanda Hocking
Genre: Young Adult Fiction
Releases: August 22, 2010
Publisher: Lulu

For her eighteenth birthday, Alice Bonham takes a vacation to Australia only to have her trip cut short by an unexpected murder.
While Alice tries to solve the murder, she regrets some of the choices she's made, especially the more permanent ones.
On top of that, the child vampire is running loose, and its attracting some very unwanted attention...

___________________________________________________________

GIVEAWAY!

Amanda is kindly offering up one paperback copy of the first book MY BLOOD APPROVES to one lucky winner!

AND

a MY BLOOD APPROVES inspired t-shirt will go to a second lucky winner!

click here for shirt info!

*NOTE* Once the winner is chosen, Amanda will order it in the size the winner wants and it will probably take two weeks after the end of the giveaway to get to the winner.

CONTEST RULES:
-Open to US/CANADA/INTERNATIONAL!
-There will be two winners.
-First winner will get first choice.
-FILL OUT THIS FORM TO ENTER
- Ends September 18th @ 11:59 p.m. EST

*Comments will NOT count as entries*

Author Guest Post: Brenda Pandos (The Emerald Talisman Blog Tour)

2010-08-19T05:06:00.008-05:00

Today, I am excited to have Brenda Pandos, the author of the debut novel THE EMERALD TALISMAN, stopping by to talk a little about her inspiration, supporters and writing, for her blog tour hosted by the lovely Eleni at La Femme Readers. Thank you so much Brenda for stopping by!

Check out all the stops on the Blog Tour HERE.

____________________________________________________________

INSPIRATION?

Success stories inspire me. Not the ones where the person just happens to be at the right place at the right time, but the ones who struggle, get knocked down, get up again and keep going. The underdog who everyone said couldn’t do it and overcame all kinds of obstacles to achieve their dream. And when they do make it, stay humble in their success. Those stories grab me, propel me and give me goosebumps.
At first, I wrote to escape. I’m super motivated by fun. If I don’t have anything fun to think about or look forward to, I wither away. When my son’s ASD diagnosis hit the scene, my husband and I were shell shocked and life stopped. We simplified, we analyzed, we researched, we clung to each other. We did everything we could do to get our son help. Then, two months later, his little brother was born. Life was just crazy. I quit my job and became a SAHM (which I didn’t mind), became utterly exhausted, and had lots of people come into my home all day long to work with my oldest. Lots of change. I needed something fun to think about during the mundane routine of our day. I read a little fiction (which I hadn’t done for a long time), watched TV (which I had to fight my kids over) but a bio from a famous author got my creative juices flowing and I decided to write my own love/fantasy story. That’s where The Emerald Talisman was born. My characters fed my soul, gave me happiness and brought the fun back to me and my friends who read my (very crappy) first chapters. Then, I was writing for them.
Now I write because my fans want a sequel. That’s super motivating and exciting for me. It’s such an honor to know that my world was also a thrilling and wonderful escape for some body else. There’s no other compliment than for readers to fall in love with your characters and believe in them too!

SUPPORTERS?

My husband is my biggest supporter. Even though he doesn’t read fiction, he supports me emotionally (I’m pretty emotional). So, for hubby to patiently listen to me read him lines of text, freak out (in a good way) one minute and then get discouraged the next, he needs sainthood or something. But he always reminds me of what’s important and helps me pull it together and keep going. His love is the wind beneath my wings.
My best friend and other online friends read my fledgling chapters, praised them and told me to keep going (even if they fudged a little in their enthusiasm). That made me want to be a better storyteller. My editor became my biggest supporter of my growth during editing. She took me under her wing and nudged me along step by step with loads of encouragement. I wrote to get the “great line” comments in my story.

DO YOU THINK WRITING HAS A PHYSICAL AS WELL AS AN EMOTIONAL EFFECT ON A PERSON?

Oh boy, does it ever. My kids are pieces of my heart, running around outside my body. My book feels like the same thing. A writer really puts themselves on the line when they open themselves and let others read what’s inside. Even my mother, who knows me almost as well as my husband does, said she learned new things about me when reading my manuscript. We are like peas and carrots, so that’s truly amazing.
And when I get another great review, I dance around the kitchen and get teary. :)

___________________________________________________________

ABOUT BRENDA PANDOS
Brenda Pandos lives in Carmichael, California with her husband and two energetic children. Shortly after the birth of her second son, Brenda's oldest was diagnosed with an ASD that turned her world upside-down. Her life became round the clock feedings with a newborn and a daily stream of tutors working to help her toddler. She craved a meaningful escape.

The main concepts of THE EMERALD TALISMAN came to her in the wee hours of the morning as she reminisced the good old days when she lived with her best friend in the Santa Cruz Mountains. As a young girl, Brenda was a hopeless romantic, constantly lost in a fantasy world in her backyard of knights on white horses, mermaids and evil villains. As a teen, shows such as Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel and Interview with a Vampire intrigued her. With the encouragement of a friend after writing one chapter, she continued on to complete her first manuscript.

THE EMERALD TALISMAN is a compilation of what the author would like to happen if she ever encountered a real vampire.

__________________________________________________________

Visit Brenda Pandos on her website(s):
-Website
-Blog
-Twitter
-Facebook
-Goodreads

_______________________________________________________________

AVAILABLE NOW!

The Emerald Talisman by Brenda Pandos
Genre: Young Adult Fiction
Published: March 23, 2010
Publisher: Obsidian Mountain Publishing

To be normal, sixteen-year-old Julia Parker would shed her empathic gift in a second. Life has been difficult since her mother's mysterious disappearance ten years earlier - an event she witnessed, but can't remember. Julia's situation becomes more complicated after a near death experience from a blood thirsty stalker. As high school students go missing it is clear there is a connection to her own experience--past and present. Someone has to stop the madness and a chance encounter with a creepy psychic foretells that only Julia is the key to stopping the madness, but it may require the life of the one she loves.

____________________________________________________________

Get THE EMERALD TALISMAN now in stores at:

Amazon * Barnes and Noble

COMING DECEMBER 2010!

THE SAPPHIRE TALISMAN

YOU WISH Re-Cover Contest FINAL ROUND! GO VOTE!

2010-08-18T01:26:00.002-05:00

Hey guys! The voting for Princess Bookie's Re-Create a cover contest is in it's final round! The top cover wins! But hurry because voting ends Thursday morning!

Go over to Princess Bookie's blog and vote for your favorite in THE LAST ROUND!

They are all amazing!!

Here is my re-cover design, #1 :)

So go and vote for YOUR favorite now!!

Author Interview - Amanda Hocking (Wisdom)

2010-08-16T10:48:00.005-05:00

Today for the August Blogger Birthday Bash, I have the pleasure of introducing the author of WISDOM, Amanda Hocking, who is stopping by for the event to do an interview!

The fourth book in her My Blood Approves series, WISDOM, comes out August 22nd!

____________________________________________________________

ABOUT AMANDA HOCKING
"I live in Minnesota, and even though I hated it a lot growing up, I really love it here now. (Ask me again when its twenty below and I'm scraping ice off my windshield, and I might answer different.)

When I was in grade school and we had to do reports on things, I always picked the more obscure subject. For animals, I picked the okapi and the narwhal, and when I did a report on countries, I picked Luxembourg. I know lots and lots of trivia about lots and lots of pointless things.

I write young adult paranormal romance and urban fantasy mostly. The My Blood Approves series is about vampires in Minneapolis, and its available now. I also wrote the Trylle Trilogy, and the first book Switched is out now, with the second book coming out Fall 2010.

The next series to hit e-shelves will probably be Honalee a YA series about witches, and probably Hollowland, my zombie novel that I love. A lot. But it might be something else entirely. I'll see how it goes." - by Amanda Hocking

__________________________________________________________

Visit Amanda Hocking on her website(s):

-Blog
-Twitter
-Goodreads
___________________________________________________________

*INTERVIEW*

Q) Who is your favorite fictional hero of all time?
A) Batman, hands down.

Q) What historical person do you most identify with?
A) Anne Frank. She hid out in and wrote in her diary all the time, and that's pretty much how I spent my middle-school years. Admittedly, her life was a lot more tragic than mine.

Q) Are you planning on doing anything special in August?
A) Two things - I'm releasing the fourth book in my vampire series Wisdom, and I am going full-time writing. Also, on August 17th, my mom will be 49, and my cat will be 7.

Q) Do you have a favorite Birthday memory?
A) A couple years ago I met Darth Vader on my birthday. Okay, it was a guy in an authentic Darth Vader costume, but it was still pretty sweet. I also rode in the Millenium Falcon.

Q) If you were to bake a cake what kind of cake would it be?
A) The Funfetti kind that comes in a box with pink frosting and sprinkles.

Q) What is your most treasured gift that someone has given you?
A) My life. Thanks, Mom.

Q) If you could chose one of your characters to come to life and celebrate with-who would be at the top of your list?
A) Jack. He knows how to have a good time.

Q) What are some of your favorite books you've read this summer?
A) Hourglass, the third book in the Evernight series by Claudia Gray, and Glimpse by Stacy Wallace Benefiel. I also re-read Nine Stories by J. D. Salinger. "A Lovely Day for Banana Fish" is my all-time favorite short-story by him. I also just started reading The Crow - the graphic novel that the movie is based on - by J. O'Barr, and so far it's good.

Q) What is your favorite saying or motto?
A) "Why do we fall? So that we can learn to pick ourselves up." Whenever stuff gets hard or feels impossible, I think of that. It is sorta like a mantra in my head. It doesn't stop me from getting frustrated or angry, but it reminds me that the situation will help me in the future if I learn from it.

Q) What is the one thing you wish people would ask but never do?
A) Anything about Val Kilmer. I'm an unofficial expert on him, but nobody seems to care.

_______________________________________________________________

AVAILABLE AUGUST 22nd, 2010!

Wisdom by Amanda Hocking
Genre: Young Adult Fiction
Releases: August 22, 2010
Publisher: Lulu

For her eighteenth birthday, Alice Bonham takes a vacation to Australia only to have her trip cut short by an unexpected murder.
While Alice tries to solve the murder, she regrets some of the choices she's made, especially the more permanent ones.
On top of that, the child vampire is running loose, and its attracting some very unwanted attention...

____________________________________________________________

Get the first three books in the My Blood Approves series,

MY BLOOD APPROVES, FATE and FLUTTER now in stores at:

* Amazon *

In My Mailbox (August 8th-14th)

2010-08-15T23:45:00.004-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren
and inspired by Alea from Pop Culture Junkie

Hey guys! Sorry for the late IMM. My iPhone broke, again! So I haven't been able to take any pictures of the books I got this week till recently. Sorry for the crappy quality :/

This week I got some really awesome books though!

FOR REVIEW:

Nightshade by Andrea Cremer (We Love YA Tours)

My Blood Approves by Amanda Hocking

Fate by Amanda Hocking

Flutter by Amanda Hocking

Another Faust by Daniel and Dina Nayeri

Another Pan by Daniel and Dina Nayeri

Girl Parts by John M. Cusick

Second Hand Heart by Catherine Ryan Hyde

Saving Max by Antoinette van Heugten

When Blood Calls by J.K Beck

BOUGHT:

Remeber Me by Christopher Pike

Infinite Days by Rebecca Maizel

*Special thanks to We Love YA Tours, Amanda Hocking, Candlewick Press, Catherine Ryan Hyde, Antoinette van Heugten and J.K Beck

Review: The Everafter by Amy Huntley

2010-08-15T00:43:00.002-05:00

Title: The Everafter
Author: Amy Huntley
Published: September 16th, 2009
Pages: 248
Rating: 5 flowers
Summary:
Madison Stanton doesn't know where she is or how she got there. But she does know this - she is dead. And alone in a vast, dark space. The only company Maddy has in this place are luminescent objects that turn out to be all the things she lost while she was alive. And soon she discovers that, with these artifacts, she can reexperience - and even change - moments from her life.
Her first kiss.
A trip to Disney World.
Her sister's wedding.
A disastrous sleepover.
In reliving these moments, Maddy learns illuminating and frightening truths about her life - and death.

My Thoughts:

THE EVERAFTER is a compelling, short read with an intriguing premise about the afterlife that will leave you thinking about it way after you've finished reading.

First of, I absolutely love when books leave you thinking about them long after your done with them. It's what sets apart a good book from a REALLY good book. And THE EVERAFTER was a REALLY good book!

THE EVERAFTER is a unique supernatural book about a girl who died and is by herself in the "everafter." All the objects that she has lost during her life are now the only things that surround her. Having realized that these objects allow her to go back and relive that moment in her life she finds herself with two problems. She doesn't know how she died or what she's supposed to do now.

"I'm dead." These very first words in the book drew me in. Along with the cover because it is absolutely AMAZING! I really liked how the book was unpredictable because you never know which age Maddy will experience since it is all based on the object she touches.

Overall, I ended up finishing this book in one sitting because it was fast paced and a short read. Amy Huntly prefected a novel about life, loss, acceptance, and powerful love.
Even though I think the characters could have been more developed, THE EVERAFTER is such a powerful young adult after-death book that will not leave you disappointed when you put it down.

*Received from HarperTeen for an honest review.*

Birthday Contest Update!

2010-08-15T00:05:00.002-05:00

Hey guys, so apparently I had a brain fart...ha...but the contest will be open international or wherever the Book Depository ships! Since I will be ordering the books from there.

But please note that if you happen to win and you are international, you will NOT be able to pick prize pack #1 or #2, since I will be shipping the ARCs to the winners! Unless you want to pay for shipping via PayPal. Thanks!

GO HERE FOR THE CONTEST AND FULL DETAILS!

My Reading Influence

2010-08-13T09:54:00.000-05:00

Anyone can have minor and major influences on your day to day life.

Whether it be from the way you dress, act, or even talk.

“You don't have to be a "person of influence" to be influential. In fact, the most influential people in my life are probably not even aware of the things they've taught me.” -Scott Adams

I want to take the time to let you all know about someone who has been the most influential person in my life and is the reason I read as much as I do today...

“He who influences the thoughts of his times, influences all the times that follow. He has made his impress on eternity.” -Unkown

MY MOM

Reading almost every night to your kids sure did pay off Mom!
Decided not to put a picture up since she might find out and go straight for the jugular ;)

I'm sure a lot of people say their parents are there biggest influence in most things and it's really true. My mom is no exception. She read to me when I was little and kept doing it while encouraging me to read as well. I guess you can say I became a nerd at a young age :P I'm guessing my twin didn't acquire the same 'nerdness' because we are complete opposite. Literally like the sun and moon.

Ever since I can remember, I've been in love with libraries and books. She even encourages my writing, which is saying a LOT because my writing is HORRIBLE!

So, who's you biggest reading influence?

Author Interview - Emma Michaels (The Thirteenth Chime)

2010-08-13T08:04:00.003-05:00

Today for the August Blogger Birthday Bash, I have the pleasure of introducing the author of THE THIRTEENTH CHIME, Emma Michaels, who is stopping by for the event to do an interview!

The debut novel, THE THIRTEENTH CHIME, comes out today! (August 13th)

____________________________________________________________

ABOUT EMMA MICHAELS
Emma Michaels was born and raised in Los Angeles, California, until she moved at eighteen to Washington State. Suddenly, the world was a new place filled with tall green trees that reached further for the sky with every moment, making her want to do the same. Ever since, she has tried to make her life something new and different from what it was before, pursuing her future career, setting high goals and reaching for them with every moment.

With her Debut novel, The Thirteenth Chime being released August 13th 2010 (TODAY!) and future releases planned Emma Michaels aspires to one day make it to the top ten of the New York Times Best Sellers List. With her fiancé at her side and her small white Chihuahua, Hope, she writes, reads, reviews and tries to live everyday to its fullest, whether in the pages of a good book or reaching out to others.

__________________________________________________________

Visit Emma Michaels on her website(s):

-Website
-Twitter
-Facebook
-Blog
-Shelfari
___________________________________________________________

*INTERVIEW*

Q) Who is your favorite fictional hero of all time?
A) Alanna from the "Song of the Lioness" Quartet. She was the first female lead character I actually enjoyed reading about and even came to look up to, making her especially close to my heart.

Q) What historical person do you most identify with?
A) Queen Elizabeth, or at least I hope to. What she did was just so different and new but most importantly strong. I want to have that type of strength.

Q) Are you planning on doing anything special in August?
A) PARTY!! *laughs* and the beginning of my book tour.

Q) Do you have a favorite Birthday memory?
A) My fiance woke me up one morning by making me chocolate chip pancakes and serving them to me in bed. Then he made a homemade pizza (from scratch, just the way I like it!) for lunch and we watched movies and relaxed for the rest of the day. We celebrated with everyone else on the weekend before but it was just so special having it just be us just relaxing and having a good time. I don't know what it was about it but I think it will always be one of my favorite memories.

Q) If you were to bake a cake what kind of cake would it be?
A) Chocolate cake! I actually normally do the cakes for my birthday and for most of my friends. My birthday is normally chocolate with a dark chocolate fudge frosting or my other favorite is this wonderful multi-layer cake that is chocolate with strawberries between all of the layers. YUM!

Q) What is your most treasured gift that someone has given you?
A) My Chihuahua. She is my friend, my sweet little girl and little guardian angel, though my mischievous little guardian angel.

Q) If you could chose one of your characters to come to life and celebrate with-who would be at the top of your list?
A) Carline - we both love ice cream *laughs*

Q) What are some of your favorite books you've read this summer?
A) Beautiful Creatures, Fallen and Shiver though I have a few more on my list I am hoping will also become fast favorites.

Q) What is your favorite saying or motto?
A) AzaAza fighting! It is from a Korean drama called "Full House". The saying means to "keep fighting and not give up"! The two main characters we always at odds and it is actually an amazingly beautiful story. One of them had always used "Fighting!" as their own little motto and the other "Aza Aza" It was a great episode when they both finally started to use both of them. Ever since it has been this little thing that my fiance and I do. If I am feeling down that is what we say.

Q) What is the one thing you wish people would ask but never do?
A) If you were a super hero what would be your kryptonite? I mean it is such a fun question when you think about it!

Thank you so much for having me and to everyone reading!!!!!

_______________________________________________________________

AVAILABLE NOW!

The Thirteenth Chime by Emma Michaels
Genre: Young Adult Fiction
Releases: August 13, 2010
Publisher: Bokheim Publishing

No one knew of its existence until it was removed from the attic upstairs. In a beautiful house that overlooks the sea, an antique clock has the power to change the course of their lives. The power the clock resonates will not only force Destiny and ex-boyfriend David on a journey into the depths of one man's mind long dead, but into the mind of a man filled with hatred and bent on revenge. With the only clues to the nature of the clock having disappeared into the sea, Destiny and David must retrace the steps the man had taken into the darkness, before they fall prey to the trap he had set in motion over half a century ago. Hatred never dies.

Get THE THIRTEENTH CHIME now in stores at:

* Amazon *

______________________________________________________________

To check out our other interview with Emma Michaels for her blog tour, go HERE.

MEGA Birthday and August Release Contest!

2010-08-13T03:27:00.008-05:00

As you might know if you follow my blog, I turned 20 on the 3rd and let me tell you, I am excited! I'm not a teen anymore :P But that won't stop me from reading young adult books for as long as I live!

So I want to celebrate with all my awesome followers, my birthday as well as the amazing books that are being release this August. (Sorry this post is a little late!)

There will be 3 winners, since my birthday was on the 3rd :)

CONTEST IS INTERNATIONAL, OR WHEREVER THE BOOK DEPOSITORY SHIPS!
I'm sorry but if you are international and you win, you can't pick prize pack 1 or 2 since I will be shipping the ARCs to the winners! Unless you want to pay for shipping. Thanks!

________________________________________________________

*CONTEST RULES*
-There will be 3 winners.
-Wherever the Book Depository ships.
-First winner gets first pick, and so on.
-Being a follower is optional, though it can get you an extra entry.
-Ends on September 25th @ 11:59 p.m. EST
-Must fill out THIS FORM.

Comments, though appreciated, do NOT count as entries!

If I get to 250 followers on the blog, another winner will be added to get 1 book!

If I reach 275 followers, the fourth winner will get to win two books!

If I get 300 followers, I will make up 3 more prize pack options. (I like the #3) ;)

_____________________________________________________

THE PRIZES!

Prize Pack #1
ARC of The DUFF by Kody Keplinger
Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare

Prize Pack #2

ARC of Deception by Lee Nichols

The Eternal Ones by Kirsten Miller

Prize Pack #3

Almost to Die For by Tate Halloway

Paranormalcy by Kiersten White

Prize Pack #4

Halo by Alexandra Adornetto

You Wish by Mandy Hubbard

______________________________________________________

*All the books, besides the ARC, are the FINAL copies.*

EXTRA ENTRIES:
+1 being a follower
+1 follow me on twitter (@onceuponareview)
+1 comment on giveaway telling me which 2011 book you're most looking forward to
+2 each for linking (twitter, facebook, sidebar)
+5 blog post

YOU WISH recreate a cover contest! Round 4

2010-08-12T14:42:00.001-05:00

Hey guys! The voting for Princess Bookie's Re-Create a cover contest is going on right now! The top 2 covers will go on to the fourth round! But hurry because voting ends Monday morning!

Go over to Princess Bookie's blog and vote for your favorite in ROUND 4!

They are all amazing!!

Here is my re-cover design, #1 :)

So go and vote for YOUR favorite now!!

Good luck everyone!

Review: Never Cry Werewolf by Heather Davis

2010-08-12T02:03:00.003-05:00

Title: Never Cry Werewolf
Author: Heather Davis
Published: August 18th, 2009
Pages: 212
Rating: 3 flowers
Summary:
Shelby’s summer plans go totally awry when her horrible stepmother sends her off to “brat camp” as punishment for one too many broken curfews. Camp is full of spoiled rich kids, obnoxious counselors wanting Shelby to talk about her feelings, and a totally inhumane “no cell phones” policy.
Things start looking up, though, when Shelby meets fellow camper (and son of a rock star) Austin Bridges III. But soon she realizes there’s more to Austin than crush material—his family has a dark secret, and he wants Shelby’s help guarding it. Shelby knows that bad boys get her into trouble…but who is she to turn her back on a guy in need, especially such a good-looking one?
Heather Davis’s debut novel mixes together irresistible characters, a pesky full moon, and a delicious taste of the supernatural.

My Thoughts:

NEVER CRY WEREWOLF is a short, face-paced read that any werewolf fan will devour!

I was a little late when it came to recognising this book. It's been out since last year and I just heard about it a couple months ago! I'm seriously beginning to think I live under a rock...

The cover is what got me to really want to read it. It's gorgeous and the I love how the girl is sporting a red hooded jacket. Little Red Riding Hood much?

NEVER CRY WEREWOLF is about a girl named Shelby who is sent to "brat camp" by her father and 'evil' step-mother. I really like the new setting the book brought. Very different and original than most books i've read. I can honestly say I've never read a book with a "brat camp" involved. I kinda enjoyed how it was simple. Yes, it has werewolves, but it didn't focus on the whole good and evil aspect like many other YA books do.

I didn't like the book as much as I thought I would but it was still an enjoyable read. I really liked Shelby. She was a sarcastic and witty character. I wish we would have seen more of her best friend Ariel though. Other than that, most of the characters were a little flat to me.
The story didn't dwell too much on Shelby and Austin's romance so that's what kind of made me give it 3 flowers.

Overall, NEVER CRY WEREWOLF is a good debut novel that will satisfy readers who are looking for a simple and quick read.

*Recieved from HarperTeen for an honest review.*

Author Interview & Giveaway- Julie Kagawa (The Iron Daughter)

2010-08-11T11:03:00.008-05:00

Today for the August Blogger Birthday Bash, I have the pleasure of introducing the author of THE IRON DAUGHTER, Julie Kagawa, who is stopping by for the event to do an interview!

The sequel in her Iron Fey books, THE IRON DAUGHTER, came out on August 1st!

____________________________________________________________

ABOUT JULIE KAGAWA
Julie Kagawa was born in Sacramento, California. But nothing exciting really happened to her there. So, at the age of nine she and her family moved to Hawaii, which she soon discovered was inhabited by large carnivorous insects, colonies of house geckos, and frequent hurricanes. She spent much of her time in the ocean, when she wasn’t getting chased out of it by reef sharks, jellyfish, and the odd eel.

When not swimming for her life, Julie immersed herself in books, often to the chagrin of her schoolteachers, who would find she hid novels behind her Math textbooks during class. Her love of reading led her to pen some very dark and gruesome stories, complete with colored illustrations, to shock her hapless teachers. The gory tales faded with time, but the passion for writing remained, long after she graduated and was supposed to get a real job.

To pay the rent, Julie worked in different bookstores over the years, but discovered the managers frowned upon her reading the books she was supposed to be shelving. So she turned to her other passion: training animals. She worked as a professional dogtrainer for several years, dodging Chihuahua bites and overly enthusiastic Labradors, until her first book sold and she stopped training to write full-time.

Julie now lives in Louisville, Kentucky, where the frequency of shark attacks are at an all time low. She lives with her husband, two obnoxious cats, one Australian Shepherd who is too smart for his own good, and the latest addition, a hyper-active Papillon puppy.

Julie Kagawa is the author of The Iron Fey series which include THE IRON KING (2010), WINTER'S PASSAGE (Novella), THE IRON DAUGHTER (2010), and THE IRON QUEEN (2o11).

__________________________________________________________

Visit Julie Kagawa on her website(s):

-Website
-Twitter
-Blog
___________________________________________________________

*INTERVIEW*

Q) What is your favorite fictional hero of all time?

A) So many great ones to choose from! I'd have to say ONE of my favorite heroes is Morgan Leah from The Druid of Shannara. He was my first literary crush. (Of course, Valek from Poison Study could give him a run for his money. )

Q) What historical person do you most identify with?

A) Oh, I'm so bad with history. Ummmm, I played Mary Queen of Scots in a high school play once and pulled it off really well. Does that count? (And if it does, what does that say about me?)

Q) Are you doing anything special this month?

A) Nothing planned at the moment, but I hope to do a signing in Louisville sometime in September.

Q) Do you have a favorite Birthday memory?
A) Horseback riding with my best friend in Hawaii.

Q) If you were to bake a cake what kind of cake would it be?
A) Mountain Dew cake!

Q) If you could chose one of your characters to come to life and celebrate with-who would be at the top of your list?
A) Oh, for a celebration it would definitely be Puck. I'd choose Ash, but he'd either stand in a corner and brood or try to kill me. xD

Q) What are some of your favorite books you've read this summer?
A) Jessica's Guide to Dating on the Dark Side, Linger, Book of a Thousand Days, Other.

Q) What is your favorite saying or motto?
A) If you want something bad enough, you'll get it. If you didn't get it, you didn't want it bad enough.

Q) What is the one thing you wish people would ask but never do?
A) Can I just give you this extra million dollars I have lying around. ;-)

_______________________________________________________________

BOTH AVAILABLE NOW!

Get THE IRON DAUGHTER now in stores at:

Amazon * Barnes and Noble * Book Depository

LOOK FOR THE IRON QUEEN, OUT FEBRUARY, 2011!

______________________________________________________________

*GIVEAWAY*

Thanks to the amazing Julie Kagawa, I have some doodled bookplates for you to win!

LOOK! It's Grimalkin!

*GIVEAWAY RULES*

-There will be two winners.
-First winner will get first choice.
-Contest ends September 2 @ 12:00 a.m. EST (So at midnight on the 1st!)
-Fill out THIS FORM to enter.

Extra Entries:
+1 being a follower
+1 comment on this post telling me who your favorite
character in THE IRON FEY series is.

January and February 2011 Releases

2010-08-10T10:32:00.006-05:00

2011 is going to be an amazing year for books. Here are some of the January and February releases! (If you have something to add, please leave a comment!)

All Titles, Covers and Dates are subject to change!

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

01/01/11
My Soul To Steal
Soul Screamers Book 4
by Rachel Vincent
YOU WANT MY SOUL AND MY BOYFRIEND?
Trying to work things out with Nash—her maybe boyfriend—is hard enough for Kaylee Cavanaugh. She can’t just pretend nothing happened. But “complicated” doesn’t even begin to describe their relationship when his ex-girlfriend transfers to their school, determined to take Nash back.
See, Sabine isn’t just an ordinary girl. She’s a mara, the living personification of a nightmare. She can read people’s fears—and craft them into nightmares while her victims sleep. Feeding from human fear is how she survives.
And Sabine isn’t above scaring Kaylee and the entire school to death to get whatever—and whoever—she wants.
I DON’T THINK SO.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

01/01/11
Haunted

by Joy Preble

Haunted, the sequel to Dreaming Anastasia, in which a girl is being haunted by a mysterious and malevolent mermaid.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

01/03/11

Entice

Need Series Book 3

by Carrie Jones

Zara and Nick are soul mates, meant to be together forever. But that’s not quite how things have worked out. For starters, well, Nick is dead. Supposedly, he’s been taken to a mythic place for warriors known as Valhalla, so Zara and her friends might be able to get him back. But it’s taking time, and meanwhile a group of evil pixies is devastating Bedford, with more teens going missing every day. An all-out war seems imminent, and the good guys need all the warriors they can find. But how to get to Valhalla? And even if Zara and her friends discover the way, there’s that other small problem: Zara’s been pixie kissed. When she finds Nick, will he even want to go with her? Especially since she hasn’t just turned… She’s Astley’s queen.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

01/04/11

Unearthly

Book 1
by Cynthia Hand

In this first book of a thrilling trilogy about angels, one girl must choose between fulfilling her Purpose and following her heart.
Clara has known she was part–angel ever since she turned fourteen two years ago. But now she is finally getting visions of what her Purpose—a rite of passage for every part–angel—is to be, and it happens to involve a gorgeous guy. Of course, there is the raging forest fire surrounding them, too. When Clara’s Purpose leads her family to Wyoming, Clara finds the boy of her visions, Christian, but complicating her mission are her growing feelings for another guy, Tucker. As the day in her visions draws closer, Clara discovers that her Purpose may play into a larger struggle between angels and Black Wings—fallen angels who spread sadness and misery wherever they go. But when the fire erupts and both Christian and Tucker are in danger, who will she choose to save?

From debut novelist Cynthia Hand comes a riveting tale full of supernatural powers, forbidden romance, and the choice between fulfilling your destiny or following your heart.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

01/04/11

Choker

Elizabeth Woods

You can never be sure who you can trust.

What if the only friend you could trust turned out to be dangerous?

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

01/06/11
Entangled
by Cat Clarke
Grace meets enigmatic Ethan the night she's planning to kill herself. The next morning she wakes up in a strange room with a table, chair, pens and paper. There's nothing to do but write, and as she writes, Grace remembers the things she's tried so hard to forget.

The hazy memories lead Grace into a dark place where friendship, heartbreak and betrayal tangle together...

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

01/06/11
XVI

by Julia Karr

In the year 2150, being a girl isn’t necessarily a good thing, especially when your sixteenth (read sex-teenth) birthday is fast approaching. That in itself would be enough to make anyone more than a little nuts, what with the tattoo and all – but Nina Oberon’s life has taken a definite turn for the worse. Her mother is brutally stabbed and left for dead. Before dying, she entrusts a secret book to Nina, telling her to deliver it to Nina's father. But, first Nina has to find him; since for fifteen years he's been officially dead. Complications arise when she rescues Sal, a mysterious, and ultra hot guy. He seems to like Nina, but also seems to know more about her father than he’s letting on. Then there’s that murderous ex-government agent who’s stalking her, and just happens to be her little sister’s dad."

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

01/11/11
Timeless

by Alexandra Monir

When her mother is killed in a car accident, Michele Windsor has no choice but to move in with the wealthy grandparents she's never met in New York. Disillusioned by their coldness, Michele retreats into her room, where she discovers her great-great-aunt's journal--and, once she touches its pages, finds herself hurtled back in time.

In the glamorous Gilded Age, Michele learns that a wedding is coming up between the Windsors and another prominent family, the Walkers. But when Michele attends a party, something miraculous happens: while almost no one can see her in this era, one gorgeous young man with sparkling blue eyes can. Drawn together by mutual attraction, the two bond over music and the parents they've recently lost. But when the party is over, Michele learns the truth--the man she just fell for is Phillip Walker. And she, unknowingly, has just inspired him to call off his wedding to her great-great-aunt, prompting a family feud that will last for generations.

As Michele travels back and forth in time, she and Phillip meet over and over, always frustrated by their inability to have more than a few hours together. Michele knows she should try to make a life in the present, but none of the boys at school can hold a candle to Phillip. Finally, Michele tries to end their romance altogether--spurring a tragedy that transcends generations. Has Michele destroyed her chances for happiness? Or is her love for Phillip . . . timeless?

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

01/11/11
All Just Glass

Den of Shadows Book Twelve

by Amelia Atwater Rhodes

Sarah Vida has given up everything for love. From a legendary family of vampire-hunting witches, Sarah was raised to never trust a vampire, to never let her guard down, and to avoid all tricky attachments of the heart. But now Sarah IS a vampire—changed by the boy she thought she loved. Her family has forsaken her, and Sarah herself is disgusted by her appetite for blood.

Aida Vida is Sarah's older sister, the good, reliable sibling who always does her family proud. But when Aida's mother insists that Sarah be found and killed, Aida is given the one assignment that she may not be able to carry out.

Taking place over just twenty-four hours, ALL JUST GLASS tells the story of a game-changing battle that will forever change the world of the Den of Shadows. And at its center is the story of two sisters who must choose between love and duty. Dark, fully-imagined, and hard to put down, ALL JUST GLASS will thrill Amelia's fans—old and new.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

01/20/11

Razorland

1st book in Duology

by Ann Aguirre

In Deuce’s world, individuals become adults—and earn the right to a name—only if they survive their first fifteen years. By this point, each unnamed ‘brat’ has trained into one of three groups: breeders, builders, or hunters. As the names imply, each group has definite roles to play for the survival of the group.

As a Huntress, Deuce’s purpose is clear—to roam the dangerous tunnels outside the enclave and bring back meat to feed the group while evading the ferocious humanoids known as Freaks. This has been the status quo for as far back as anyone can remember; this is, the elders tell everyone, the way it has to be. With the introduction of Fade, a male hunter a couple of years older than Deuce, who had been adopted into her enclave a few years earlier, she becomes aware of the hidden realities of the Orwellian society in which she was born. Deviation from the norm is punished quickly and harshly.

As Deuce’s perception of her world shifts, guided by her complex partnership with Fade, so does the balance in the constant battle for survival in the tunnels. The Freaks, considered dangerous only due to their sheer numbers and ferocious appetite, have long been held as incapable of any level of thought. And yet, as Fade and Deuce encounter them in the tunnels while in a reconnaissance mission to the nearest enclave, the creatures’ behavior is evidently cunning, and therefore more dangerous. It is evident that the danger is imminent, and yet Deuce cannot stem the dark tide that carries her far from the only world she's ever known.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

01/20/11

The Demon Trappers: Forsaken

Book 1

by Jana Oliver

Seventeen-year-old Riley Blackthorne wants to become a legendary Demon Trapper just like her father. How hard can that be?

Way hard when it comes to the Trappers. Most of these guys don’t want a girl in their Guild, and the others spend their time staring at her breasts.

Now the demons are calling her by name, which isn’t good news. Riley just needs a chance to prove herself. Which is exactly what Hell is counting on.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

01/20/11

Hexbound

Dark Elite book 2

by Chloe Neill

Lily Parker is new to St. Sophia’s School for Girls, but she’s already learned that magic can be your best friend…or your worst enemy.

They say absolute power corrupts absolutely. Turns out, even a little magic can turn you to the dark side. That’s why Lily has to learn how to control her newly discovered paranormal abilities, on top of avoiding the snobs who think they run her school, nursing a crush on a cute sophomore with a big, werewolf-y secret, and fighting the good fight with her best friend Scout as they take on Chicago’s nastiest nightlife—including the tainted magic users known as Reapers.

Then Lily’s invited to a private meeting with Sebastian. He’s hot, powerful, and offering to help her harness the magic flowing in her veins in a way no one else can. He’s also a Reaper. Lily can’t hide her suspicions. But she’ll soon find out that the line between good and evil isn’t always clear…

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

01/25/11
Vesper
by Jeff Sampson
Emily Webb is a geek—and happy that way. Content hiding under hoodies and curling up in her room to watch old movies, she’s never been the kind of girl who sneaks out for parties. And she *definitely* doesn't start fights or flirt with other girls’ boyfriends. Until one night Emily finds herself doing exactly that … the same night a classmate—also named Emily—is found mysteriously murdered.
The thing is, Emily doesn’t know why she’s doing any of this. With every nightfall, Emily gets wilder until it’s no longer just her personality that changes; she's also becoming strong, fast, and utterly fearless. Has she been bewitched by the soul of the other, murdered Emily? Or is Emily Webb becoming something else entirely—something not human?

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

01/25/11

Throat

by R.A. Nelson

R. A. Nelson takes us on a supernatural thrill ride, a modern-day vampire story set on a NASA base and filled with space-and-science intrigue. Seventeen-year-old Emma feels cursed by her epilepsy—until the lost night. She's shocked to wake up in the hospital one morning, weak from blood loss. When her memories begin to return, she pieces together that it was a man—a monster—who attacked her: a vampire named Wirtz. And it was her very condition that saved her: a grand mal seizure interrupted Wirtz and left Emma with all the amazing powers of a vampire—heightened senses, rapid speed—but no need to drink blood. Is Emma now a half-vampire girl? One thing soon becomes clear: the vampire Wirtz is fierce and merciless, feared even by his own kind, and won't leave a job undone.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

01/27/11

The Fallen Blade: Act One of the Assassini

The Vampire Assassin Trilogy: Book 1

by Jon Courtenay Grimwood

In the depths of night, customs officers board a galley in a harbor and overpower its guards. In the hold they find oil and silver, and a naked boy chained to the bulkhead. Stunningly beautiful but half-starved, the boy has no name. The officers break the boy’s chains to rescue him, but he escapes. Venice is at the height of its power. In theory Duke Marco commands. But Marco is a simpleton so his aunt and uncle rule in his stead. They command the seas, tax the colonies, and, like those in power before them, fears assassins better than their own. In a side chapel, Marco’s fifteen-year old cousin prays for deliverance from her forced marriage. It is her bad fortune to be there when Mamluk pirates break in to steal a chalice, but it is the Mamluks’ good luck – they kidnap her. In the gardens beside the chapel, Atilo, the Duke’s chief assassin, prepares to kill his latest victim. Having cut the man’s throat, he turns back, having heard a noise, and finds a boy crouched over the dying man, drinking blood from the wound. The speed with which the boy dodges a dagger and scales a wall stuns Atilo. And the assassin knows he has to find the boy.
Not to kill him, but because he’s finally found what he thought he would never find. Someone fit to be his apprentice…

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

02/01/11

Invincible

Chronicles of Nick Book Two

by Sherrilyn Kenyon

Just when he thought things couldn’t get any worse...

Nick Gautier’s day just keeps getting better and better. Yeah, he survived the zombie attacks, only to wake up and find himself enslaved to a world of shapeshifters and demons out to claim his soul.

His new principal thinks he’s even more of a hoodlum than the last one, his coach is trying to recruit him to things he can’t even mention and the girl he’s not seeing, but is, has secrets that terrify him.

But more than that, he’s being groomed by the darkest of powers and if he doesn’t learn how to raise the dead by the end of the week, he will become one of them...

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

02/01/11
The Iron Witch
by Karen Mahoney
Freak. That’s what they called seventeen year-old Donna Underwood in high school after a horrific fey attack that killed her father when she was just a child. Her injuries and rehabilitation resulted in magically enhanced strength, thanks to the iron tattoos branding her hands and arms. As a child of the alchemists, she is both blessed and cursed with a magical heritage that doesn't leave much room for boys, parties and homework.
Now, after ten years of wishing for a normal life, she finally has to accept her role in the centuries-old war against the darkest outcasts of Faerie: the Dark Elves. Aided by a gorgeous half-fey dropout, Donna must race to save her best friend’s life - even if it means betraying one of the world’s greatest secrets and confronting the very thing that destroyed her family.

(THE WOOD QUEEN sequel to Iron Witch out Winter 2012, Flux Books)

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

02/01/11

Delirium

by Lauren Oliver

Before scientists found the cure, people thought love was a good thing. They didn’t understand that one love -the deliria- blooms in your blood, there is no escaping its hold. Things are different now. Scientists are able to eradicate love, and the governments demands that all citizens receive the cure upon turning eighteen. Lena Holway has always looked forward to the day when she’ll be cured. A life without love is a life without pain: safe, measured, predictable, and happy.

But with ninety-five days left until her treatment, Lena does the unthinkable: She falls in love.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

02/08/11
So Shelly

by Ty Roth

Until now, high school junior, John Keats, has only tiptoed near the edges of the vortex that is schoolmate and literary prodigy, Gordon Byron. That is, until their mutual friend, Shelly, drowns in a sailing accident.

After stealing Shelly's ashes from her wake at Trinity Catholic High School, the boys set a course for the small Lake Erie island where Shelly's body had washed ashore and to where she wished to be returned. It would be one last "so Shelly" romantic quest. At least that's what they think. As they navigate around the obstacles and resist temptations during their odyssey, Keats and Gordon glue together the shattered pieces of Shelly's and their own pasts while attempting to make sense of her tragic and premature end.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

02/08/11

Cloaked

by Alex Flinn

Johnny works after school in a shoe repair shop in a swanky hotel in Miami. He loves shoes and is talented; he even aspires to be the next Manolo Blahnik. But the real reason that he is working so hard is because his dad left when he was a baby and he needs to help his mom pay the bills. At least he has his friend, Meg, who works at the hotel coffee shop, to keep him company.

When beautiful Princess Victoriana comes to stay at the hotel, Johnny is thrilled when Victoriana invites him to her suite. There she tells him that her brother has been turned into a frog, and that she needs his help finding him in the Florida Keys. Johnny thinks she is crazy and does not believe her,

until she gives him a magical cloak that immediately transports him to another location. Armed with the cloak and a magical earpiece that can help him talk to other transformed humans Johnny sets out to save the Prince ...

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

02/11/11

Cryer's Cross

by Lisa McMann

The small town of Cryer's Cross is rocked by tragedy when an unassuming freshman disappears without a trace. Kendall Fletcher wasn’t that friendly with the missing girl, but the angst wreaks havoc on her OCD-addled brain.

When a second student goes missing - someone close to Kendall's heart - the community is in an uproar. Caught in a downward spiral of fear and anxiety, Kendall's not sure she can hold it together. When she starts hearing the voices of the missing, calling out to her and pleading for help, she fears she’s losing her grip on reality. But when she finds messages scratched in a desk at school - messages that could only be from the missing student who used to sit there - Kendall decides that crazy or not, she’d never forgive herself if she didn’t act on her suspicions.

Something's not right in Cryer’s Cross - and Kendall’s about to find out just how far the townspeople will go to keep their secrets buried.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

02/15/11

Angelfire

Book One

by Courtney Allison Moulton

When seventeen-year-old Ellie starts seeing reapers - monstrous creatures who devour humans and send their souls to Hell - she finds herself on the front lines of a supernatural war between archangels and the Fallen and faced with the possible destruction of her soul.

A mysterious boy named Will reveals she is the reincarnation of an ancient warrior, the only one capable of wielding swords of angelfire to fight the reapers, and he is an immortal sworn to protect her in battle. Now that Ellie's powers have been awakened, a powerful reaper called Bastian has come forward to challenge her. He has employed a fierce assassin to eliminate her - an assassin who has already killed her once.

While balancing her dwindling social life and reaper-hunting duties, she and Will discover Bastian is searching for a dormant creature believed to be a true soul reaper. Bastian plans to use this weapon to ignite the End of Days and to destroy Ellie's soul, ending her rebirth cycle forever. Now, she must face an army of Bastian's most frightening reapers, prevent the soul reaper from consuming her soul, and uncover the secrets of her past lives - including truths that may be too frightening to remember.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

02/15/11

Secrets and Shadows

Book Two

by Shannon Delany

Sequel to 13-to-Life. (No summary yet)

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

02/22/11

Darkness Becomes Her

Gods and Monsters Book One

by Kelly Keaton

Ari can’t help feeling lost and alone. With teal eyes and freakish silver hair that can’t be changed or destroyed, Ari has always stood out. And after growing up in foster care, she longs for some understanding of where she came from and who she is.
Her search for answers uncovers just one message from her long dead mother: Run. Ari can sense that someone, or something, is getting closer than they should. But it’s impossible to protect herself when she doesn’t know what she’s running from or why she is being pursued.
She knows only one thing: she must return to her birthplace of New 2, the lush rebuilt city of New Orleans. Upon arriving, she discovers that New 2 is very...different. Here, Ari is seemingly normal. But every creature she encounters, no matter how deadly or horrifying, is afraid of her.
Ari won’t stop until she knows why. But some truths are too haunting, too terrifying, to ever be revealed..

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

02/22/11

Iron Thorn

Iron Codex Book One

by Caitlin Kitteredge

A series set in a Lovecraftian industrial city in an alternate 1950s that centers on a mechanically gifted young girl approaching her 16th birthday, the age at which everyone in her family goes insane, leaving it up to her to unravel the mystery of their madness--and save the world.

It is 1955...but not the 1955 you know. The Witchcraft Scare polarizes America. Magic is outlawed and practitioners are burned. And one girls has discovered that magic is neither fiction nor fairy tale, but very much alive...

Aoife Grayson is a month shy of sixteen, the age when everyone in her family goes mad. An orphan in the steam-powered city of Lovecraft, Massachusetts, Aoife escapes the confines of her repressive boarding school and along with her best friend Sam and outlaw guide Dean, sets out to discover the secret of her family's madness. What she discovers is a world of forbidden magic and faerie curses, and a dark secret that has shadowed the Grayson family for generations. Aoife must choose between keeping the secret or keeping her sanity, and unravel the dark machinations of the Winter Court of the Fae before it's too late to save her city...or herself.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

02/22/11
Darkest Mercy

Wicked Lovely #5

by Melissa Marr

The Summer King is missing; the Dark Court is bleeding; and a stranger walks the streets of Huntsdale, his presence signifying the deaths of powerful fey.

Aislinn tends the Summer Court, searching for her absent king and yearning for Seth. Torn between his new queen and his old love, Keenan works from afar to strengthen his court against the coming war. Donia longs for fiery passion even as she coolly readies the Winter Court for battle. And Seth, sworn brother of the Dark King and heir to the High Queen, is about to make a mistake that could cost his life.

Love, despair, and betrayal ignite the faery courts, and in the final conflict, some will win…and some will lose everything.

The exhilarating conclusion to Melissa Marr’s New York Times bestselling Wicked Lovely series will leave readers breathless.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

02/22/11

A Touch Mortal

1st Book in Reaper Trilogy
by Leah Clifford

Death isn't what Eden expected. Where the hell is her release? Her quiet ending? Not that Eden remembers the details of her final hours, but one thing is for sure--becoming a sider, trapped between life and death, was definitely not part of the plan...
For Eden, nothing seems to be coming easy. There's no way of telling what will happen when her fingertips graze human skin. The power that builds inside her, Touch, strips away morals and logic.
Some people only feel a high; others are overcome by their darkest thoughts.
But honestly there's not much time for her to worry about her effect on mere mortals. She's got her own drama. Somehow, word's gotten around that her Touch can kill her own kind. With desperate siders already camping out on her doorstep, the last thing Eden needs is the rumor to spread. Especially since it's true...

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Teaser Tuesday (Nightshade by Andrea Cremer)

2010-08-10T10:13:00.003-05:00

"The rush of heat was as sudden as if I'd been branded by his handprint. I didn't look at him. "I've got a bottle full of hydrochloric acid in my hand, Ren. Don't piss me off. You know you're not playing by the rules."
He laughed by snatched his hand back."

pg.38 "NIGHTSHADE" by Andrea Cremer

Louder Than Words Contest Update!

2010-08-09T20:37:00.003-05:00

LOUDER THAN WORDS BOOKS GIVEAWAY

Hey guys! I seem to have messed up on the Louder Than Words giveaway!
The contest will be for a whole set of book plus individual copies of each.

Winner #1 - will get the 3 book set (Rae, Hannah AND Alexis)

Winner #2 - choice of 1 book (Rae, Hannah or Alexis)

Winner #3 - second choice of 1 book

Winner #4 - whatever is left

So sorry guys. For those of you who have already entered, don't enter again!

If you haven't already then go HERE for the full details.

YOU WISH Re-Cover Contest - Voting Round 3!

2010-08-09T12:28:00.001-05:00

Hey guys! The voting for Princess Bookie's Re-Create a cover contest is going on right now! The top 10 covers will go on to the second round! But hurry because voting ends Monday morning!

Go over to Princess Bookie's blog and vote for your favorite in ROUND 3!

They are all amazing!!

Here is my re-cover design, #2 :)

So go and vote for YOUR favorite now!!

Good luck everyone!

Review: The Crescent by Jordan Deen

2010-08-08T10:49:00.003-05:00

Title: The Crescent
Author: Jordan Deen
Published: January 14th, 2010
Pages: 187
Rating: 5 flowers
Summary:
Becoming a werewolf is not an option for seventeen-year-old Lacey Quinn, but death can be a strong motivator. Lacey is so focused on her future that everyday life has passed her by. Counting down the days to her eighteenth birthday, Lacey is almost home free. But when she falls for the mysterious Alex Morris, she lands in the middle of an ancient war between two enemy wolf packs. Tempting dreams, tantalizing lies and a dangerous love triangle ensues leaving Lacey heartbroken and confused. Lacey's fate rests in the hands of Alex and Brandon, but both are pulling her strings for their own agendas. Even as she slips further into the dark world of werewolves, Lacey struggles to find the truth and save the only family she's ever know.

My Thoughts:

THE CRESCENT is a breathtaking debut novel that will leave you anxiously turning the pages to see what will happen next!

OMG! I'm trying really hard to be all "professional" and what not in writing this review, but it's so hard when you are absolutely in love with a book and all you want to say about it is EEEEKKK!

THE CRESCENT had me hooked from the very first page, and cover! The cover is just as beautiful as the story itself. Jordan Deen sure knows how to create a unique spin on werewolves and leave the reader feeling every emotion the main character is going through.
The main character is seventeen-year old Lacey Quinn. I really liked her and felt bad for her because of the situation her parents are in. At first, all they do is fight and that leaves Lacey trying her best to avoid it. I sympathized with her the whole way through.
The other characters were likable too and well developed. Lacey and her best friend Jillian had me laughing throughout the story. I loved their witty humor. I literally laughed out loud at some parts.

The love-triangle in this book was the best part for me. I still can't decide who I like more or even want Lacey to end up with. Alex is definetly swoon worthy and has eyes just for Lacey but the the equally swoon worthy, devoted Brandon comes in and just causes confusion to Lacey's heart and mind. With all this confusing drama, she soon learns that the life she has been living is a lie and now she doesn't know who or what to believe. Let alone, to trust. It gets to the point where she can hardly tell reality from a dream.

THE CRESCENT is filled with heart-breaking romance, edge-of-your-seat action, witty humor, drow-dropping drama, and because of that, it is now one of my favorite books this year.

I am amazed by how well Jordan Deen packed so much into such a short book, being only 187 pages and all. I was sad when I came across the last page because I wanted more! The ending killed me with it's cliffhanger. I'm anxious to see where the characters go next and if I can finally figure out which boy to chose.
I absolutely can not wait until her second book, HALF MOON, comes out!

Source: Received from author for an honest review.

In My Mailbox (August 1st-7th)

2010-08-07T20:55:00.003-05:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren
and inspired by Alea from Pop Culture Junkie
I got some pretty cool books this week!

FOR REVIEW:

Through Her Eyes by Jennifer Archer

The DUFF by Kody Keplinger

Deception by Lee Nichols

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

Equilibrium by Imogen Rose

Demon Princess: Reign Check by Michelle Rowan

I am SOOOO excited to read THROUGH HER EYES! I mean, look at that cover! Beautiful right?

Special thanks to: Jennifer Archer, Little Brown, Bloomsbury and Imogen Rose

YOU WISH Re-Cover Contest - Voting Round 2

2010-08-06T22:50:00.003-05:00

They are all amazing!!

Here is my re-cover design, #2 :)

So go and vote for YOUR favorite now!!

Good luck everyone!

Author Interview - Mandy Hubbard (You Wish)

2010-08-06T12:19:00.004-05:00

Today for the August Blogger Birthday Bash, I have the pleasure of introducing the author of YOU WISH, Many Hubbard, who is stopping by for the event to do an interview!

Her new YA book YOU WISH, came out yesterday on August 5th!

____________________________________________________________

ABOUT MANDY HUBBARD
Mandy Hubbard grew up on a dairy farm, where she was more likely to be seen in mismatched rubber boots than couture high heels. Under duress, she’ll admit that she stepped in some cowpies a time or two, and perhaps fell into some mud puddles. She devoured all kinds of books, though her favorite was any book featuring a horse. Once, she wrote a twenty-page epic about a bubble-gum chewing runaway pony, even though the assignment was only two pages. Despite the obvious, it did not occur to her that she enjoyed writing.

In 2003, while searching out fanfiction of The
Backstreet Boys (that is a story for another day), Mandy ended up at a site called Fictionpress.com. Once there, she became addicted to the stories told by novice writers and eventually decided to try writing one of her own. A semi-biographical horribly melodramatic tale was born. Although it was quite a bad attempt at fiction, Mandy became enamored with writing. She wrote several more novels over the next few years. In 2005, she read a book called THE BRIDE’S NECKLACE by Kat Martin, a romance set in regency England. The hero was an earl. His friends were dukes and barons. Mandy fell in love with all of them. She wanted to wear dresses and hang out in ballrooms. Instead, she wrote a novel set in 1815, and began querying agents. She would eventually realize that a writer had to research a novel set in a different time period.

To avoid doing so, she decided to write a contemporary YA novel. Again she queried agents, this time with more luck. In January 2006, she signed her first agent, and when that didn’t work out, she got a different one that September. In October 2006, after three years of writing, her first work went out on submission. Rejections poured in. Later that year, her second attempt at publication, PRADA AND PREJUDICE, went out on submissions.

In June 2008, after nine drafts and twenty-six rejections, Mandy sold her debut novel to Razorbill books in a two book deal.
She was 25 years old. It hit shelves on June 11, 2009. Although no one threw her a parade, she was still pretty excited.

Her second young adult novel with Razorbill books, YOU WISH, released August 5, 2010. A complete book list is available on her website. She has also written articles which have appeared in DISCOVERY GIRLS magazine and THE WRITER.

In addition to writing, Mandy joined D4EO Literary in 2010, and is representing authors of middle-grade and young-adult fiction.

__________________________________________________________

Visit Many Hubbard on her website(s):

-Website
-Twitter
-Facebook
-Livejournal

___________________________________________________________

*INTERVIEW*

Q) What is your favorite fictional hero of all time?

A) Oh, man, how can I say anyone but Mr. Darcy? He's just... swoonworthy.

Q) What historical person do you most identify with?

A) Hm. Hard to say. I dont think I indentify with her-- at all!--but I am completely fascinated by Anne Boleyn. I wish there was some way to get inside her head and figure out what she was thinking, and if she really thought she could live happily ever after as Queen.

Q) Are you doing anything special in August?

A)A scene, near the beginning of the book, takes place in the Flaming Geyser state park. The main character, Kayla, and her BFF are swimming at the river there. So, that's what I plan to do on release day, if its hot out-- go relax for once and have fun swimming! Later in August, I'm flying down to Los Angeles to talk with a writer's group.

Q) Do you have a favorite Birthday memory?

A) When I turned 16, I got my license. And I remember driving around with like, 4 friends, all crammed in the tiny little coupe (I was the oldest, thus the first to get a car/license!) and how amazingly awesome it was. The first taste of freedom!

Q) If you were to bake a cake what kind of cake would it be?

A) Man, I am so lame at baking. Which is sad becuase my hubbs LOVES baked goods. Like, he told the pastor during out required premarital counseling that if he could change one thing about me, it would be that I would "bake more pies." So I'd probably make a chocolate cake from the box, wtih german chocolate icing. You know, the yummy cococonut stuff.

Q) What is your most treasured gift that someone has given you?

A) Oh gosh! Hard to say. The most recent that comes to mind was from C. A. Marshall, a friend and freelance editor. She made me a bracelet (by hand!) that has little pink charms that look just like the YOU WISH book cover. It's beautiful!

Q) If you could chose one of your characters to come to life and celebrate with-who would be at the top of your list?

A)Alex, from Prada & Prejudice! He's an English Duke, and I'm a sucker for a british accent. Plus, I really want to try out one of those ridiculous dances they did.

Q) What are some of your favorite books you've read this summer?

A) SLEEPLESS by Cyn Balog is pretty awesome. About to pop open ONE NIGHT THAT CHANGES EVERYTHING by Lauren Barnholdt-- CANNOT wait to read it.

Q) What is your favorite saying or motto?

A) "A published author is an amateur who didn't quit. Don't quit."

Q) What is the one thing you wish people would ask but never do?

A)"Do you want to go to Olive Garden?"
Ha, sorry, I am totally enamored by Olive Garden. But nobody ever says, "Hey, let's go!"

_______________________________________________________________

BOTH AVAILABLE NOW!

Get YOU WISH now in stores at:

Amazon * Barnes and Noble * Book Depository

Cassandra Clare MEGA Giveaway & More!

2010-08-05T22:55:00.003-05:00

As part of the awesomeness that is the August Blogger Birthday Bash, Day from Paperback Dolls is hosting a whole Cassandra Clare week with giveaways, interviews, reviews and more. You do NOT want to miss it!

___________________________________________________

MEGA CASSANDRA CLARE GIVEAWAY

THE AWESOME PRIZES:
*Signed copies of all Cassandra Clare's Mortal Instruments and her upcoming release, Clockwork Angel!
*A Viviane Hebel's Infernal Devices Clockwork Angel wings Necklace! The very same Tessa will be wearing in Clockwork Angel!
*Viviane Hebel's Mortal Instruments warlock Magnus Bane rainbow cuff!
*Viviane Hebel's Mortal Instrument Bookmarks made from metal and are engraved with real TMI ruins!

_________________________________________________________

CASSANDRA CLARE WEEK @ PAPERBACK DOLLS

Paperback Proust with Cassandra Clare

Review: City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare

Review: City of Glass by Cassandra Clare

ARC Review: Clockwork Angels by Cassandra Clare

Character Interview with warlock Magnus Bane (coming soon)

______________________________________________________

Go check out Day from Paperback Dolls and wish her a Happy August! (and late birthday)

Louder Than Words Books Giveaway!

2010-08-05T15:36:00.007-05:00

LOUDER THAN WORDS BOOKS GIVEAWAY

"What do you get when you give talented teen girl writers a chance to share their life story with the world? The first-ever series of teen-authored memoirs . . . Louder Than Words.

Inside each Louder Than Words book, authors share their powerful stories through unique prose, journal entries, and poetry."

Thanks to TLC Book Tours, you too can have a chance of reading these amazing memoris.

I am happy to host a giveaway for an entire set of these three books plus an extra copy of RAE.

So you get 4 times the chance to win!

There will be one winner for the whole 3 book set, one winner for RAE, one winners for HANNAH, one winner for ALEXIS.

*Contest Rules*

-Open to US/Canada only (no P.O boxes)

-There will be four winners

-No extra entries except one for being a follower

-Ends September 5th, 2010 - 11:59 p.m EST

-Fill out the form below or go HERE

_____________________________________________________

ABOUT THE BOOKS

There’s Alexis, who shares her harrowing story of being solicited in an online
chat room by an older man who drew her into an emotionally dependent and
cybersexual relationship.
*
Then there’s Rae, who gives a brilliantly
penned firsthand account of what it’s like to be a teen suffering from severe
anxiety disorder.
*
And then there’s Hannah, whose pill-popping,
depression, and suicidal tendencies resulted in a tumultuous high school
existence and a diagnosis of borderline personality disorder.

______________________________________________________

Loading...

_______________________________________________________

Rae by Chelsea Rae Swiggett (TLC Book Tour)

2010-08-05T14:33:00.005-05:00

*Recieved a copy from HCI Teens for an honest review and part of the Louder Than Words book tour.*

Title: Rae
Author: Chelsea Rae Swiggett
Published:August 2nd, 2010
Pages: 156
Rating: 5 flowers
Summary:
When you're fourteen and trying to deal with the highs, lows, traumas, and humiliations that go along with being a high school freshman, having severe anxiety can become all consuming. Chelsea Rae Swiggett's anxiety has affected every area of her life—school, family, friendships, and romance—ultimately pushing her to lose her voice, withdrawal from everyday life and school, and develop an eating disorder.
The sounds of planes flying overhead could spark a panic attack and something as simple as being called on in class could push her over the edge, convinced that everyone was judging her, mocking her. Faking sickness so she could stay home became her only solution, since she'd rather do anything than face the reality of what happened behind the school's double doors. Rae tells a story all-too-many teens today relate to—what it feels like to see the world through a lens of constant debilitating fear, anxiety, and stress.

My Thoughts:

RAE is a strong and powerful story of anxiety, fear and social phobia that will leave you relating to each and every word.

When I first heard of the Louder Than Words books, I was intrigued by the idea of teenage girls having the opportunity to share their stories that many other teens could relate to. RAE was one of those books that I found myself knowing exactly what the author, Chelsea Rae Swiggett, was writing about.

For me, anxiety was a big part of my every day life in my early teenage years. RAE brings up those fears I use to have of fitting in in highschool, anxiety over tests and how other people view you. It also gives an insight on the author's struggle with weight and how she tries to control it.

RAE is such an eye-opening read that is written from Chelsea Rae Swiggett's past experience and let's everyone dealing with anxiety know that they are not alone.

Overall, I absolutely LOVED this book. I felt like certain parts of the book was written about me and I strongly encourage teens and even adults to read RAE.

_________________________________________________________

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Chelsea Rae Swiggett is eighteen years old and will soon be heading to college to major in English and immerse herself even further into the world of books and writing. She currently serves on the Ypulse Youth Advisory Board. Visit her YA blog at The Page Flipper.

_________________________________________________________
TLC Book Tour Stops for RAE

August 3rd: The Brain Lair

August 5th: Once Upon a Review
August 10th: La Femme Readers
August 12th: Book Junkie
August 16th: Luxury Reading
August 18th: The Book Scout
August 20th: YA Book Queen
August 26th: WORD for Teens
August 31st: Peeking Between the Pages

For stops for Alexis and Hannah, two other books in the Louder Than Words series, check out TLC Book Tours.

Early Review: Hunger by Jackie Morse Kessler

2010-08-05T12:00:00.003-05:00

*Received from We Love YA Tours for review*

Title: Hunger
Author: Jackie Morse Kessler
Published: October 18th, 2010
Pages: 180
Rating: 3 flowers
Summary:
“Thou art the Black Rider. Go thee out unto the world.”
Lisabeth Lewis has a black steed, a set of scales, and a new job: she’s been appointed Famine. How will an anorexic seventeen-year-old girl from the suburbs fare as one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse?
Traveling the world on her steed gives Lisa freedom from her troubles at home: her constant battle with hunger, and her struggle to hide it from the people who care about her. But being Famine forces her to go places where hunger is a painful part of everyday life, and to face the horrifying effects of her phenomenal power. Can Lisa find a way to harness that power — and the courage to battle her own inner demons?

My Thoughts:

Hunger is a captivating story that captures the effects of anorexia and the emotional struggles that a teenage girl faces with having an eating disorder.

I really didn't know what to expect when I signed up for this book but I was really intrigued that it involved the Four Horsemen. I was a little disappointed though that it took the backseat in the story.

At first, I wanted to put the book down and give up on it. The begining of the story just didn't seem real to me. It was at times confusing and I had to re-read some pages because it was all over the place. It soon got bareable and I really began to enjoy it. Kessler nailed the concept of eating disorders and made her main charaster Lisa seem real. I found myself relating to Lisa on many levels. My favorite character though would have to be Death. He had a good sense of humor that was ironic at times. It had me laugh silently.

HUNGER is beautifully written and the characters surprisingly became three-dimensional after I got over the first part. I like how it's kind of ironic that Kessler chose to incorporate the Four Horsemen in the book and picked Lisa to be none other than Famine. Ha-ha.
I really do wish it had more action and scenes of Lisa as Famine though.

Overall, HUNGER is a pretty good short read that portrays the severity of eating disorders among teenagers very well. Emotional, symbolic, witty and powerful, HUNGER is one of those books you don't want to skip out on.

Waiting on Wednesday

2010-08-04T18:29:00.003-05:00

I decided to do my waiting on Wednesday for a book that is being released TOMORROW! Since the fabulous author is a part of the August Blogger Birthday Bash!

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event spotlighting upcoming releases we are highly anticipating. It is hosted at
Breaking the Spine.

You Wish by Mandy Hubbard

To be published on August 5th, 2010

Summary: What if all your wishes really came true?
Kayla McHenry’s sweet sixteen sucks! Her dad left,
her grades dropped, and her BFF is dating the boy Kayla’s secretly loved for years. Blowing out her candles, Kayla thinks: I wish my birthday wishes actually came true. Because they never freakin’ do.
Kayla wakes the next day to a life-sized, bright pink My Little Pony outside her window. Then a year’s supply of gumballs arrives. And a boy named Ken with a disturbing resemblance to the doll of same name stalks her. As the ghosts of Kayla’s wishes-past appear, they take her on a wild ride… but they MUST STOP. Because when she was 15? She wished Ben Mackenzie would kiss her.
And Ben is her best friend's boyfriend.

My Thoughts: I am really excited and I can't wait till I can go get it! Hopefully soon! I absolutely LOVE the cover...mmm cupcakes :)

Many Hubbard will also be stopping by Once Upon a Review for an interview on Friday (August 6th) for the August Blogger Birthday Bash so make sure to come and check it out!!

My Birthday and Book Releases!

2010-08-02T22:58:00.005-05:00

I am now officially 20!! Yay! *throws confetti*
I'm finally out of my teen years and I don't know why that makes me so excited!
Shouldn't I be dreading getting older?

Btw, i'm drooling over my picture of Ian as I type this :P teehee

Later on today I will try to post my BIG Birthday/August Book Release Giveaway so make sure to look out for it. It's going to be awesome :)

Anywho, it's not just my birthday. There are some awesome book birthdays today that everyone should be aware of.

APHRODITE THE BEAUTY: GODDESS GIRLS by Joan Holub & Suzanne Williams
THE ATLANTIS COMPLEX: ARTEMIS FOWL by Eoin Colfer
BRAIN CAMP by Susan Kim & Lawrence Klavan
DATING FOR DEMONS by Serena Robar
ELLIE MCDOODLE: BEST FRIENDS FUR-EVER by Ruth McNally Barshaw
THE EXTRAORDINARY SECRETS OF APRIL, MAY, & JUNE by Robin Benway
JACK BLANK AND THE IMAGINE NATION by Matt Myklusch
MY LITTLE PHONY: THE CLIQUE by Lisi Harrison
NO AND ME by Delphine de Vigan
SKYCLAN'S DESTINY: WARRIORS by Erin Hunter

(From Teensreadtoo.com)

___________________________________________________

Now to leave you all with an awesome picture!

In My Mailbox (July 25th-31st)

2010-08-02T21:22:00.003-05:00

So I really wanted to do my first IMM vlog because the books I got last week were AWESOME but sadly youtube hates me. (Hence why the late post) So I will possibly try next IMM.

FOR REVIEW:

Ondine by Ebony McKenna -extra copy for a giveaway!

Never Cry Werewolf by Heather Davis

Forget You by Jennifer Echols *signed*

The Crescent by Jordan Deen *signed*

Portal by Imogen Rose

The Everafter by Amy Huntley

Tweet Heart by Elizabeth Rudnick

Hunger by Jackie Morse Kessler (We Love YA Tours)

Rae by Chelsea Rae Swigget

Alexis by Alexis Singer

Hannah by Hannah Westberg

BOUGHT:

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare

OTHER GOODIES:

A lot of bookmarks! Sorry I forgot to take a picture!

Some are signed bookmarks of The Crescent by Jordan Deen so I will have a giveaway so people can enjoy them too!

Special thanks to: Harper Collins, We Love YA Tours, Ebony McKenna, Jennifer Echols, Jordan Deen, Imogen Rose, Elizabeth Rudnick and HCI Books.

August Blogger Birthday Bash!

2010-08-01T21:41:00.003-05:00

Hey guys, it is now officially August so that means....the August Blogger Birthday Bash is here!

All month long I will be participating in this amazing event with three other awesome bloggers to not only celebrate our August birthdays, but promote some of the best books being released this month.

Day from Paperback Dolls will kick off the event tomorrow on her blog with an interview from C.S Harris!
So stop by her blog and make sure to wish her a Happy Birthday too!!

Awesome August Birthday Bloggers

Day from Paperback Dolls
Jeremy from Novel Thoughts
Larissa from Larissa's Life

50 Followers Contest Winners!!

2010-07-30T19:19:00.002-05:00

Hey guys! I went ahead and picked the winners for my 50 Followers Contest!

I will email the winners shortly, and they will have 48 hours to respond or I will pick new winners!

Using Random.org ...the winners are....

Jeremy West

Natalie (Mindful Musings)