Waiting on Wednesday: Hallowed

Author: Cynthia Hand
Publisher: HarperTeen
Release Date: Janurary 17, 2012
Synopsis:


For months part-angel Clara Gardner trained to face the raging forest fire from her visions and rescue the alluring and mysterious Christian Prescott from the blaze. But nothing could prepare her for the fateful decisions she would be forced to make that day, or the startling revelation that her purpose—the task she was put on earth to accomplish—is not as straightforward as she thought. Now, torn between her increasingly complicated feelings for Christian and her love for her boyfriend, Tucker, Clara struggles to make sense of what she was supposed to do the day of the fire. And, as she is drawn further into the world of part angels and the growing conflict between White Wings and Black Wings, Clara learns of the terrifying new reality that she must face: Someone close to her will die in a matter of months. With her future uncertain, the only thing Clara knows for sure is that the fire was just the beginning.




** You can read my review of the first book in the Unearthly series here
**Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event is hosted by Breaking the Spine to share upcomming releases we are eagerly waiting for :)

Matched by Ally Condie

Title: Matched
Author: Ally Condie
Release: November 30, 2010
Synopsis:

Cassia has always trusted the Society to make the right choices for her: what to read, what to watch, what to believe. So when Xander's face appears on-screen at her Matching ceremony, Cassia knows with complete certainty that he is her ideal mate . . . until she sees Ky Markham's face flash for an instant before the screen fades to black.

The Society tells her it's a glitch, a rare malfunction, and that she should focus on the happy life she's destined to lead with Xander. But Cassia can't stop thinking about Ky, and as they slowly fall in love, Cassia begins to doubt the Society's infallibility and is faced with an impossible choice: between Xander and Ky, between the only life she's known and a path that no one else has dared to follow.

Review:
Dystopian books always give me mixed feelings. I love the how the authors are able to create alternate worlds that seem so realistic. And I especially love the way each author always has something different to contribute to their idea of a dystopian future. But I have an irrational irritation toward them. Mostly because I like the idea that I can write and speak out against things I don't like but the way the government in these types of books (the Society in Matched) control everything makes me feel that if I was in the book I'd be leading the revolution. So it's the good kind of a love-hate relationship.
Anyway, I like how the author described the Society; they gave only enough freedom to keep the people satisfied but they controlled practically everything else.And I love the undercurrent of rebelliousness coming from the characters in this book. On the surface, everyone is perfect and obeys, but underneath, they all have secret desires and actions.
The main character, Cassia, is  very, for lack of a different word, interesting. She starts as this girl who follows the rules without question, like everyone else, but she does like to think. Her character is set to staying blended in with everyone else in her world. But as the book moved on she became the one red rose in a field of white. She started disliking the ways of society and exploring paths that led her to rebelliousness...
Which leads us my favorite character, Ky. He's witty and incredibly intelligent, even though he likes to hide it. Not that he doesn't have a reason. Ky, like Cassia, want to stay out of notice of the society, but for different reasons. I won't tell you why, though. Anyway,he has his own view on the world that was shaped when he was a child. In my opinion, he is just what Cassia a needs, someone to balance her out.
Xander is like Ky in many ways, but he shows his emotions easier than Ky. I guess most ways Xander is perfect for Cassia. They've known each other for years and they know everything about each other. But there is such thing as too perfect. Another thing about Xander is he would do nearly anything to make Cassia happy, even if it means destroying his own happiness.
Love Triangles are so complicated!
(I could go on about other characters but I think I'll stop at these three)
Throughout Matched I could hardly put the book down. True, there were a few down times where if felt as if not much happened, but the undercurrent of a would be/should be romance between Cassia and Ky and trouble with the Society kept me hooked till the end. So the down times didn't hinder the book.
Also, while the plot line for Matched isn't necessarily original (many dystopian books have controlling governments), the way the author portray the novel is. Cassia, a girl in a society that controls everything finding the courage to break free and be her own person and all the while she is trying to continue a relationship with the wrong guy with a bad background. It's a really interesting plot and even more so with all the other little details and parts incorrperated in it; which is why it has became one of my must reads.
And on that note, I will say the ending is practically a cliff hanger. But, in my opinion the ending was sort of abrupt and I can say I had though there would have been more to it. Either way, I can't wait to discover what happens between Cassia and Ky and Xander in Crossed. I'm bouncing in anticipation just thinking about it. I recommend this book to anyone who likes love triangles and dystopian worlds. Matched earned the rating of an B+ for it's plot, characters, and tendency to make a reader never want to put it down. 

Nevermore by Kelly Creagh

Title: Nevermore
Author: Kelly Creagh (her website)
Release:
Synopsis:
Cheerleader Isobel Lanley is horrified when she is paired with Varen Nethers for an English project, which is due—so unfair—on the day of the rival game. Cold and aloof, sardonic and sharp-tongued, Varen makes it clear he’d rather not have anything to do with her either. But when Isobel discovers strange writing in his journal, she can’t help but give this enigmatic boy with piercing eyes another look.

Soon, Isobel finds herself making excuses to be with Varen. Steadily pulled away from her friends and her possessive boyfriend, Isobel ventures deeper and deeper into the dream world Varen has created through the pages of his notebook, a realm where the terrifying stories of Edgar Allan Poe come to life.

As her world begins to unravel around her, Isobel discovers that dreams, like words, hold more power than she ever imagined and that the most frightening realities are those of the mind. Now she must find a way to reach Varen before he is consumed by the shadows of his own nightmares.

His life depends on it.

Review:

Nevermore was a very interesting and dark book. Plus, it is the first I've ever read with Edgar Allan Poe integrated into it as a major part of the plot. Actually, this book has really peeked my interest in Poe (since the only poem I've read of his is Annabel Lee). What I think is the most interesting thing the author has done is mix history with fictional characters. Like the mystery of Poe's death, the Poe Toaster, and his poems (though that's technically not history). 

The only thing that got to me was the length and pace of the book. Nothing really important happened until somewhere in the middle of the book and even then, it wasn't till the end that the actual eye catching paranormal stuff started happening. Mostly it was a lot of Isobel's high school life and her friend issues. 

Which brings me to another thing, as much as I loved the book, the high school part was really... unnatural. I'm speaking from high school experience. Yes, there are some cliques of specific people, but not everyone is categorized into organized groups. Most kids just stick with their friends no matter what group or club they "belong" to. Well, everyone's high school experience is different, right?
Now to characters.
Isobel is, in a way, a strong heroine. She shows her morals and where she stands from the start and I rarely had a doubt about her character (as in the way she acts). Her only weakness and ultimately, her greatest mistake, is trusting to easily. 
Varen is a dark mysterious shadow that comes of as cold and sardonic. But he grows on you from the start. Well, there are some moments where you want scream out in frustration because of his behavior. And despite their sun and rain differences, Isobel and Varen have an odd connection. 
Reynolds is a whole other type of mysterious throughout this book. Popping up at the moments he is needed but disappearing anyother time. I like, though, how his character is based off the Poe Toaster (read the book to know who that is or Google it ;) The thing most infuriating about Reynolds is his way of turning a conversation in circles and leaving more questions left in the open then answered.
Gwen is weird in a good way and her character makes me smile. She's forever being hyper and open to the world, uncaring of what others think. At least that's what I got from what I have read of her.
Her dad, on the other hand, sort of annoyed me in the beginning with his biased opinion  toward Brad. But, later on in the book, he redeems himself in my eyes. I'm being vague, I know, but I'm trying to stay away from spoilers.
Now just to get it out of the way, Brad, is the stereotypical, no-brain jock. I see him as a jerk and rude. He was also Isobel's boyfriend in the beginning of the book. PS. he's the jealous type.
There are other characters I could mention, but it'd take a while, so I'll let you form your own opinion on them and the ones I already mentioned.
Other than my qualms with the high school life in the book this was a very interesting story that had me hooked in the end. I loved the way the book ends in a way that makes me want to speed time till the next one comes out. Major cliffhanger. I highly recommend to all horror fanatics, paranormal lovers, and Poe readers. 
And since I finally figured out a rating system, I give this book a solid B for a fantastic story line, okay pace, legitimate Poe details, and an ending that'll leave you begging for more.


**PS for anyone who has read or is reading this book, I've heard rumors that the sequel will be released next year in August and the title will be Ensadowed.

Waiting on Wednesday: The Iron Knight

Author: Julie Kagawa (her blogger)
Publisher: Harlequin King
Release Date: October 25, 2011
Synopsis:

I am the last remaining son of Mab, Queen of the Unseelie Court.

And I am dead to her.

My fall began, as many stories do, with a girl…

To cold faery prince Ash, love was a weakness for mortals and fools. His own love had died a horrible death, killing any gentler feelings the Winter prince might have had. Or so he thought.

Then Meghan Chase—a half human, half fey slip of a girl—smashed through his barricades, binding him to her irrevocably with his oath to be her knight. And when all of Faery nearly fell to the Iron fey, she severed their bond to save his life. Meghan is now the Iron Queen, ruler of a realm where no Winter or Summer fey can survive.

With the unwelcome company of his archrival, Summer Court prankster Puck, and the infuriating cait sith Grimalkin, Ash begins a journey he is bound to see through to its end—a quest to find a way to honor his vow to stand by Meghan’s side.

To survive in the Iron Realm, Ash must have a soul and a mortal body. But the tests he must face to earn these things are impossible. And along the way Ash learns something that changes everything. A truth that challenges his darkest beliefs and shows him that, sometimes, it takes more than courage to make the ultimate sacrifice.

* I have read this series and fell in love with Ash-- I mean the books! O_O

** THEY HAVE A TRAILER :D (okay, I think I'm done freaking out now.) 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zjyPvcIUE2w&feature=player_embedded

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Title: The Hunger Games
Author: Suzanne Collins (her website)
Release:
Synopsis:

Katniss is a 16-year-old girl living with her mother and younger sister in the poorest district of Panem, the remains of what used be the United States. Long ago the districts waged war on the Capitol and were defeated. As part of the surrender terms, each district agreed to send one boy and one girl to appear in an annual televised event called, "The Hunger Games." The terrain, rules, and level of audience participation may change but one thing is constant: kill or be killed. When her sister is chosen by lottery, Katniss steps up to go in her place.



**Yes, there are spoilers in this review because there was no other way to say how I felt without them.

Review:


I am not joking when I say this has become one of my new favorites. 
In a way, the plot reminds me of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire. Okay, maybe not exactly like it, the similarities start and end with the actual Hunger Games, where only one will survive. Where as in HP Cedric dies (sorry for that spoiler to anyone who hasn't read the book). The games also reminded my of what the Romans did in the Colloseum. Fight's to the death as public entertainment. (gotta love history class :P ) 
Anyway, the way the author more or less created a new world for her story was really awesome. The government set up with the districts and capitol is really clear to the reader, so it's pretty easy to follow along. I like how the reader gets sort of a background story to what happened to the earth and what lead to the Games. The whole dystopain future the author created have a very futuristic feel where the Capitol, weapons and technology are concerned, but they also have an older feel with how the districts live. It's an interesting mix that reminds me of something we've been learning in history. Feudalism. The nobles are the capitol and the peasants are the people of the districts.
Okay, I think I'm done with the history refernces now; moving onto characters...
Katniss is always looking after her family, she's strong and capable and she likes to be seen as invincible and more or less unemotional. But she's far from unemotional. Katniss literally turns over her own life to save her sister, who she loves and has been protecting for her whole life. Katniss is also very headstrong and daring and more or less a rule breaker. And those aren't always the best qualities to posses in an almost literal dictatorship (the Capital athorities being the "dictator").
Gale, I fell in love with him right from the start. He's very much like Katniss characterwise, all the way down to him being the one that watches over his family. I just wish there was a little bit more of him in the book...
Peeta, a baker, an artist.... a tribute. His situation is pretty heartbreaking... especially since Katniss thinks he doesn't mean it for most of the book. It's obvious for us to tell that he loves her, but she's in denial. In a way it's a good and bad thing they both are tributes.
Now for my favorite character...
Rue is the so sweet and small, but still pretty fierce. Katniss immediately feels protective toward her. And is Rue's last scene, i cried. The emotion the author portrayed in that particular scene was a big part of it, but the events that led up to it and Katniss and Rue's relationship did more. I could just imagine their bond so clearly, it was just sorrowful to see it get broken apart like that. I swear, when Rue started calling for Katniss, my heart stopped and I got chills.
So all in all, I love the way the author writes, I feel like I actually know the characters and i felt like i could actually relate to Katniss. Well, probably only as far as the fierce protectiveness goes since i have so many younger siblings, but my point still stands. 
The Hunger Games is an addicting book full of suspense that has your stomach clenching and your heart pounding the entire time. Recommended for anyone who lives dystopain type, star-crossed love, action-packed, rule-breaking, and/or futuristic type books.

Deja Vu Thursday #4

Deja Vu Thursday is a weekly post that I am starting on my blog. It focuses on similar book covers, may it be design, cover model, etc. It's like seeing doubles! And, let's face it,  midweek, everyone feels like they are loosing their mind anyway.

 

More information about the model can befound here and here.
Author: Lauren Kate
Synopsis:

Luce would die for Daniel.

And she has. Over and over again. Throughout time, Luce and Daniel have found each other, only to be painfully torn apart: Luce dead, Daniel left broken and alone. But perhaps it doesn’t need to be that way. . . .

Luce is certain that something—or someone—in a past life can help her in her present one. So she begins the most important journey of this lifetime . . . going back eternities to witness firsthand her romances with Daniel . . . and finally unlock the key to making their love last.

Cam and the legions of angels and Outcasts are desperate to catch Luce, but none are as frantic as Daniel. He chases Luce through their shared pasts, terrified of what might happen if she rewrites history.

Because their romance for the ages could go up in flames . . . forever.

Sweeping across centuries, PASSION is the third novel in the unforgettably epic FALLEN series.

**i actually just read this recently, over summer break, but i wanted to reread the series and review each book first. Let's see how long THAT takes with my 2 million other books i have to read
*** P.S. I just had to show my sister the book trailer for Passion and tell her a bit about it and she was hooked.  She is now currently trying to finish Fallen.

Waiting on Wednesday: If I Die

Author: Rachel Vincent
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Release Date: September 27th, 2011
Synopsis:
NO ONE WANTS TO BE THIS TEACHER’S PET . . .

Everyone else is talking about Eastlake High’s gorgeous new math teacher, Mr. Beck, but Kaylee Cavanaugh has bigger things on her mind. Kaylee’s a banshee—her scream is a portent of death.

But the next scream might hit too close to home. Kaylee’s borrowed lifeline has almost run out.

Yeah—it’s a shock to her, too. So to distract herself from her own problems, Kaylee is determined to defend her school against the latest supernatural threat. That hot new teacher is really an incubus, who feeds from the desire of unsuspecting students. The only girls immune to his lure are Kaylee and Sabine, her boyfriend’s delinquent ex-girlfriend. Now the unlikely allies have to get rid of Mr. Beck…before he discovers they aren’t quite human either.

But Kaylee’s running out of time, and those who love her will do anything to save her life.

ANYTHING.

*I litterally gasped after reading "Kaylee's borrowed lifeline has almost run out." Adding to my MUST-READ list.

**Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event is hosted by Breaking the Spine to share upcomming releases we are eagerly waiting for :)

The Iron Thorn by Caitlin Kittredge

Title: The Iron Thorn
Author:  Caitlin Kittredge
Release: 2011
Synopsis:

In the city of Lovecraft, the Proctors rule and a great Engine turns below the streets, grinding any resistance to their order to dust. The necrovirus is blamed for Lovecraft's epidemic of madness, for the strange and eldritch creatures that roam the streets after dark, and for everything that the city leaders deem Heretical—born of the belief in magic and witchcraft. And for Aoife Grayson, her time is growing shorter by the day.

Aoife Grayson's family is unique, in the worst way—every one of them, including her mother and her elder brother Conrad, has gone mad on their 16th birthday. And now, a ward of the state, and one of the only female students at the School of Engines, she is trying to pretend that her fate can be different.


Review:


The Iron thorn was a great read. Set in the 1950's, this alternate world on earth is pretty mind-blowing.  Monsters stalk the night, Protectors hunt monsters, romance makes it's annual appearance and belief in any religion is considered heresy. I love the way the author was able to incorporate some of the ideas from the 1950's, woman's rights being a main one. It was truly awesome. I mean, to think that back then, it wasn't right for women or girls to act out of line... And if her story was real life, well, i'd have no reason to be even writing these reviews because the books wouldn't exist because of their fantsy and supernatural content. 
The whole time I was reading this book, i couldn't help but think of the irony of timing. We are learning about The Scientific revolution (from witchcraft and God's will to science). 
Anyway...
The plot line was very well written and very creative. Like I mentioned before, the timing of the actual story just made the whole necrovirus and monsters thing click into place. I like the whole concept of having the protectors who will protect you...as long as you weren't what they considered heretics. And the war in the book is intriguing (the author mentions it in the story, but it's almost just background information). I didn't really catch what it was supposed to be over but the way the author went about it like it was nothing new to the main character was just brilliant. Over all, I really enjoyed Caitlin Kittredge's writing style as much as I enjoyed the story.
Now to characters.
Aiofe is a  very rebellious girl. She doesn't act like people expect her to. She has attitude, a voice, and spunk; and I appreciate that about her. She doesn't mind breaking the rules, as long as she finds her brother in the end. But the best part about her character is her brains. Aiofe is intelligent and a fast thinker when she needs to be and she's a marvelous engineer.
And every marvelous protagonist needs her own love-struck best friend, right? Cal, is that friend. I like that Cal is there for Aiofe but...he annoys me. I mean, yes he travels to help her find her brother but he's so corrupted by the Protectors in more ways then you even know. He's not opened minded toward her and some of the stuff they encounter through the book. Every time she tells him about something that's considered "heresy" to the Protectors, he blames it on her impending doom by insanity caused by the necrovirus.
Well, on a brighter note there's Dean (cue swoon).
 To me, Dean seems more "street smart" then he does academic smart but that's a helpful trait for what he does for a living. He's the bad boy of the story, just the kind of guy every book crazed teen goes googlie-eyed for...and even better (or worse depending on your point of view) he is labeled as a heretic. I think what I like best about him is the fact that he actually believes Aiofe when she tells him stuff. I can't get into too much detail over Dean because I'm trying not to do any huge spoilers...
My favorite thing about this book was the ending. I mean, who would've known it end like that?! I loved it. It's almost one of those everything-is-not-what-it-seems kind of things. Ahh, you got to love those twists a story can take. Ijust hope there's a second book because this one wasn't necissarily a cliff-hanger per se, but it was enough to keep me up at night wondering "What's going to happen now?"
And that's pretty much it :D  The monsters, the action, the romance, the Protectors and the ending are what held my attention throughout this book. I reccomend this book to any supernatural, YA and/or steam-punk fans.

Long time no see :)

I apologize for the lack of activity on my blog, but life has been hectic since Friday.
My mom went to the hospital and was there all weekend. It wasn't anything bad, it was good actually. She had a baby :D So, now I have a brother who is five weeks too early and in NICU because his lungs aren't mature enough. He'll be fine and he's getting better, but I won't be able to get The Iron Thorn review out to you guys now. I haven't had the time to sit down and really work on it yet, but it's coming soon.
I think that's all, oh! I also postponed the giveaway for The Struggle by L.J. Smith until further notice.
Again, sorry guys. I promise, my next post will be a book review and it gonna be awesome ;)
Now, I need to get back to my three page World History essay. O_o

Deja Vu Thursday #3

Deja Vu Thursday is a weekly post that I am starting on my blog. It focuses on similar book covers, may it be design, cover model, etc. It's like seeing doubles! And, let's face it,  midweek, everyone feels like they are loosing their mind anyway.

A Beautiful Evil synopsis:

A power she can’t deny. A destiny she’s determined to fight.

When Ari first arrived in the dilapidated city of New 2, all she wanted was to figure out who she was. But what she discovered was beyond her worst nightmare. Ari can already sense the evil growing inside her—a power the goddess Athena will stop at nothing to possess.

Desperate to hold on to her humanity and protect her loved ones, Ari must fight back. But Athena’s playing mind games, not just with Ari but with those she cares about most. And Athena has a very special plan for the brooding and sexy Sebastian.

Ari is determined to defeat Athena, but time is running out. With no other options, Ari must unleash the very thing she’s afraid of: herself.

Shifting synopsis:

After bouncing from foster home to foster home, Magdalene Mae is transferred to what should be her last foster home in the tiny town of Silver City, New Mexico. Now that she's eighteen and has only a year left in high school, she's determined to stay out of trouble and just be normal. Agreeing to go to the prom with Bridger O'Connell is a good first step. Fitting in has never been her strong suit, but it's not for the reasons most people would expect-it all has to do with the deep secret that she is a shape shifter. But even in her new home danger lurks, waiting in the shadows to pounce. They are the Skinwalkers of Navajo legend, who have traded their souls to become the animal whose skin they wear-and Maggie is their next target.

Full of romance, mysticism, and intrigue, this dark take on Navajo legend will haunt readers to the final page

A Beautiful Evil is the second book in this particular series.

Shifting is not yet released, but here is the author's site

 Both books are going on my never-ending need-to-read list :) I think it's about two miles long right now...

Waiting on Wednesday: Destined

Author:  P.C. + Kristin Cast
Publisher RazorBill
Release date: October 25, 2011
Synopsis:

In Destined, the forces of Light and Dark collide as their epic struggle focuses on Tulsa’s House of Night. Zoey is home where she belongs, safe with her Guardian Warrior, Stark, by her side – and preparing to face off against Neferet. Kalona has released his hold on Rephaim, and, through Nyx’s gift of a human form, he and Stevie Rae are finally able to be together – if Rephaim can truly walk the path of the Goddess and stay free of his father’s shadow.

But is Zoey really safe? Does she truly know those who are closest to her? And will love win when it is tested by the very soul of Darkness? Find out what’s destined in the next thrilling chapter of the House of Night series.

*Maybe I should reread and review Marked soon :) But for now, I'll just stare at this cover for a bit....

**Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event is hosted by Breaking the Spine to share upcomming releases we are eagerly waiting for :)

In My Mailbox #3

In my Mailbox was created by The Story Siren to show the books bloggers have acquired over the week. 

This week, I fixed the sound issue but there is nothing I can do about a crappy webcam :P Anyway, all books except for The Eternal Ones are from the library. Sadly, though, there are no cute toddlers sisters making appearances, they were napping. But, maybe next time my little sister can show you all her new favorite book!  
<--And yes, that -book shelf is mine, it's in my closet since it's the only place with enough shelves in my room...
Enjoy the video :D


*P.S. I apologize for my lisp, I sound like a snake the whole time... Tsssssss :P

Books I mentioned in order of appearence:

The Vampire Diaries: The struggle by L.J. Smith 

*giveaway link: here

The Eternal Ones by Kirsten Miller

Slice of Cherry by Dia Reeves

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Strange Angels by Lili St. Crow

**The song playing is Santeria by Sublime

Deja Vu Thursday

I started my first Deja Vu post by showing the original cover model of Fallen by Lauren Kate. Now I'm continuing it by showing you doubles of covers. You know, similar ones, ones with the same models, and etc. Hope you like it :D

Evermore by Alyson Noel

North of Beautiful by Justina Chen Headley

Evermore synopsis:

Since a horrible accident claimed the lives of her family, Ever can see auras, hear people's thoughts, and know a person's entire life story by touch. Going out of her way to avoid human contact and suppress her abilities has branded her as a freak at her new high school—but everything changes when she meets Damen.

Damen Auguste is gorgeous, exotic and wealthy. He's the only one who can silence the noise and random energy in her head—wielding a magic so intense, it's as though he can see straight into her soul. As Ever is drawn deeper into his enticing world of secrets and mystery, she's left with more questions than answers. She has no idea just who he really is—or what he is. The only thing she knows to be true is she's falling deeply and helplessly in love with him.

North of Beautiful synopsis:

As he continued to stare, I wanted to point to my cheek and remind him, But you were the one who wanted this, remember? You're the one who asked-and I repeat-Why not fix your face?

It's hard not to notice Terra Cooper.

She's tall, blond, and has an enviable body. But with one turn of her cheek, all people notice is her unmistakably "flawed" face. Terra secretly plans to leave her stifling small town in the Northwest and escape to an East Coast college, but gets pushed off-course by her controlling father. When an unexpected collision puts Terra directly in Jacob's path, the handsome but quirky Goth boy immediately challenges her assumptions about herself and her life, and she is forced in yet another direction. With her carefully laid plans disrupted, will Terra be able to find her true path?

Written in lively, artful prose, award-winning author Justina Chen Headley has woven together a powerful novel about a fractured family, falling in love, travel, and the meaning of true beauty.

I have read Evermore and the whole series, I am hoping to find time to reread it and write a review for you guys. I haven't read North of Beauty, though, and I own it. Adding to my need-to-read list. 

      

Waiting on Wednesday: Bloodlines

Author: Richelle Mead
Publisher: RazonBill
Release date: August 23, 2011
Synopsis:

I wasn't free of my past, not yet.

Sydney’s blood is special. That’s because she’s an alchemist—one of a group of humans who dabble in magic and serve to bridge the worlds of human and vampires. They protect vampire secrets—and human lives. But the last encounter Sydney had with vampires got her in deep trouble with the other alchemists. And now with her allegiances in question, her future is on the line.

When Sydney is torn from her bed in the middle of the night, at first she thinks she’s still being punished for her complicated alliance with dhampir RoseHathaway. But what unfolds is far worse.  Jill Dragomir—the sister of Moroi Queen Lissa Dragomir—is in mortal danger, and the Moroi must send her into hiding. To avoid a civil war, Sydney is called upon to act as Jill’s guardian and protector, posing as her roommate in the unlikeliest of places—a human boarding school in Palm Springs, California. The last thing Sydney wants is to be accused of sympathizing with vampires. And now she has to live with one.

The Moroi court believe Jill and Sydney will be safe at Amberwood Prep, but threats, distractions, and forbidden romance lurk both outside—and within—the school grounds. Now that they’re in hiding, the drama is only just beginning.

*Plus, here is a link to the book trailer and first four chapters :D Right Here

**Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event is hosted by Breaking the Spine to share upcomming releases we are eagerly waiting for :)

Eyes Like Stars by Lisa Mantchev

Title: Eyes Like Stars
Author: Lisa Mantchev (Her Website)
Release: July 7, 2009
Synopsis:


Welcome to the Théâtre Illuminata, where the characters of every play ever written can be found behind the curtain. They were born to play their parts, and are bound to the Théâtre by The Book--an ancient and magical tome of scripts. Beatrice Shakespeare Smith is not one of them, but they are her family--and she is about to lose them all and the only home she has ever known.

**small spoiler alert, it's not anything huge but I just thought I would warn you :) **


Review:


I've never read anything like it! This book is very unique despite the use of classical and well known characters. The author proves that she put a lot talent and imagination and work into this story. The way she was able to represent and capture the older characters from some of Shakespeare's classics and others is fascinating! And even though Bertie is a new and original character she seems to fit right in with the others even if she does stand out a bit. The plot line was really good,too. There were twists and turns, dramatic scenes and of course romance. It's hard to believe it started out as a short story, I mean, I can't imagine it without some of the scenes. It would be like ripping the book in half, literally.
Most of the time, I can tell I like a book when I read a part and want to skip to the end just to find out what will happen! And this book made me want to skim and skip to discover if Bertie had to leave the theater and especially to discover what would happen to Nate. Though, of course, I won't tell you what happened to him in the first place to make me wonder what would happen to him... is anyone else confused by that sentence?
Anyway, Bertie was a wonderful protagonist. I loved every send of her story even if she wasn't the one telling it. She's powerful in more ways than one, she is a little headstrong at points but she's independent and cares for those around her. And true, she's a trouble maker but she is also very authoritative, too. And, like everyone, she has her issues; one being her attitude and prone to making trouble, another would be her abandonment ones.
Now, Nate. Though he might have one line in The Little Mermaid, he plays a big role in Eyes Like Stars. He's at Bertie's side whenever he can be, and he's a good friend. Plus, let's face it, he's in love with Bertie, and, even as he tries to hide it, he wants her safe from any kind of harm. He's a sweetheart with a pirate mouth and a pirate temper. 
The fairies, Peaseblossom, Cobweb, Moth, and Mustardseed, are just hilarious, there's a chance they could all give Puck from Julie Kawaga's Iron King a run for his money ;) They are ambitious, rambunctious and always getting into trouble, but, dispute their wild nature, they are Bertie's best friends. 
I don't have time to bore you will all the characters, though none are truly boring, so I saved my favorite for last.
ARIEL.
No, he isn't the mermaid from The Little Mermaid... and yes, I said he. He is "an airy spirit from the Tempest". I'm putting it out there right now, I have never read or watched any of Shakespeare plays (Yes, that includes Romeo and Juliet). So I only know of his characters from when they sneak across the pages of other books (Puck).  Anyway, I thought Ariel was a girl, till I saw a line referring to him as a he... He's very interesting, sly, and mysterious. And probably a whole bunch of other things (desperate for escape included) but I love his character, even in the beginning, and apparently Bertie does too...
Well then, as I say in nearly every review: I am forcing myself to stop before I give anymore spoilers. And let's face it, this is a review, not a book report, I'll save the latter for my English teacher.
And I'll end as I usually do, great book, but I my love for it came out near the end. Recommended for theater fanatics everywhere, and anyone who likes funny fairies and handsome pirates. 
I've been searching online for the sequel and i found it Prechance to Dream and then the end to the trilogy is So Silver Bright, which comes out next month! And, I need to remember to work on that rating system, I keep forgetting...

In My Mailbox #2

So, this is my first vlog so it took me two tries before I liked how it turned out...kinda :P Anyway, my littlest sister made an appearance in this one so she might be doing some cute things while I speak, which includes giving the camera the evil eye :D And I apologize for the bad camera quality. And for the sound :/ i need to start speaking up, but if  you use headphones you can actually hear what I am saying :D 
Anyway, enjoy! :D

Books I mentioned, in order of appearence:

Everlasting by Alyson Noel

Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins

Nightshade by Andrea Cremer

Possessions by Nancy Holder

The Evil Within by Nancy Holder

Dark Mirror by M.J. Putney

Paranormalcy by Kiersten White

Entwined by Heather Dixon 

**All books are from the library :)

P.S. this is a little disclaimer: I don't own the song playing it's Santeria by Sublime
P.P.S. (??) IMM was created by The Story Siren

Waiting on Wednesday: Deadly Little Voices

This is my first WoW post, so I'm not sure if I'm getting it right or not, but you live and you learn, right?

Author: Laurie Faria Stolarz
Publisher: Hyperion
Release Date: December 6, 2011
Synopsis (from authors website) :

Camelia Hammond thought her powers of psychometry gave her only the ability to sense the future through touch. But now she has started to hear voices. Cruel voices. Berating her, telling her how ugly she is, that she has no talent, and that she'd be better off dead. Camelia is terrified for her mental stability, especially since her deranged aunt, who has a suicidal history, has just moved into the house. As if all of that weren't torturing enough, Camelia's ex-boyfriend, Ben, for whom she still harbors feelings and who has similar psychometric abilities, has started seeing someone else. Even her closest friends, Kimmie and Wes, are not sure how to handle her erratic behavior.


With the line between reality and dream consistently blurred, Camelia turns to pottery to get a grip on her emotions. She begins sculpting a figure skater, only to receive frightening premonitions that someone's in danger. But who is the intended victim? And how can Camelia help that person when she is on the brink of losing her own sanity?


Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event is hosted by Breaking the Spine to share upcomming releases we are eagerly waiting for :)

Unearthly by Cynthia Hand

Title: Unearthly
Author: Cynthia Hand (her website)
Release: January 4, 2011
Synopsis:

Clara Gardner has recently learned that she's part angel. Having angel blood run through her veins not only makes her smarter, stronger, and faster than humans (a word, she realizes, that no longer applies to her), but it means she has apurpose, something she was put on this earth to do. Figuring out what that is, though, isn't easy.

Her visions of a raging forest fire and an alluring stranger lead her to a new school in a new town. When she meets Christian, who turns out to be the boy of her dreams (literally), everything seems to fall into place—and out of place at the same time. Because there's another guy, Tucker, who appeals to Clara's less angelic side.

As Clara tries to find her way in a world she no longer understands, she encounters unseen dangers and choices she never thought she'd have to make—between honesty and deceit, love and duty, good and evil. When the fire from her vision finally ignites, will Clara be ready to face her destiny?

Unearthly is a moving tale of love and fate, and the struggle between following the rules and following your heart.

Review: 
Whew! Now that I finally managed to scrape up some time, here is the review for Unearthly :D 
**I just read over this and decided that there may be some possible spoilers! So look out! They aren't huge bu I just thought I'd add it in to warn everyone. 


I for one love angel books. Something about them never gets old, there is always some twist, something different to add or discover every time you read a new one.  Every author has something new brewing in their mind ready to set on paper (and I guess that goes for every kind of book, not just angel ones). This one didn't disapoint. Unearthly is a book that keeps you reading until the AM. It's about destiny, love and choices (always choice, right?) and it's brilliant! Your pulled in from the first chapter and hanging on till the end. The plot wasn't nesicarily original but the way the author went about it was.
To be honest, though, I wish certain parts of the book didn't move by so quickly. I felt as if it skipped a lot of time during some of the breaks in and between chapters. I mean, the whole story is there, but the way it moves along is my only qualm (if that's the right word...). 
Anyway, as far as characters go, Clara is a really good protagonist. Even with her insecurities and all the things she is unsure of, she stands tall and strong. Sure, she has a coupple of stumbles (may they be litteral or not) but she worked her way through them.
Christian is the look-but-don't-touch kind of guy. Not necessarily mysterious like so many other guys in YA novels (coughPATCHcough) but either way he's an awesome character. Well, besides the fact that he's in love with Kay. ): I was wondering if Clara and him were or weren't going to end up together the entire book.
Wendy is a great friend to Clara, sweet and loyal like a friend should be. And Angela is a the same in her own way and for different reasons that you can discover :) Jeffery is funny and cool, as far as little siblings go, but he, like his sister, goes through some difficult things he has to understand. I hope that in the next book, we'll get more from him so we can unravel some of the mysterious things about him.
Moving on to Tucker... yes, at the beginning he is a jerk but I think he's just awesome! He's not like Christian and his whole god status but he's a fantastic character in his own way. And he's actually really sweet. 
Okay, I'm trying really hard not to post spoilers so I'm moving on, again...
Since I am still working an the rating system, I can't really rate this on a one to five scale. But for now I'll say this: great book, great characters, great plot, and a great author. I can't wait for the sequel which, as I read, will be called Hallowed and will be available January of 2012. 
Adding to my look-out-for list :P
*** Okay i just remembered (again) something I wanted to say in the review! 
The book has twists and things that have you guessing what will happen. There are surprises that you might subconsciously guess but you don't believe it till you read it :) And most of us love surprises, right? It keeps the book entertaining. 
My favorite parts had to be near the end, though, so much happened and I nearly cried at some point. Truly a wonderful story!
I think I'm done with the edits now :D

The Dark Divine by Bree Despain

Title: The Dark Divine
Author: Bree Despain (her website)
Release: December 22, 2009
Synopis:

A prodigal son
A dangerous love
A deadly secret ...


I stood back and watched his movements. Daniel had that way about him that could shut me down in an instant. . . . I kicked the gravel a couple of times and worked up my courage again. “Tell me . . . I mean . . . why did you come back? Why now, after all this time?”

Grace Divine, daughter of the local pastor, always knew something terrible happened the night Daniel Kalbi disappeared—the night she found her brother Jude collapsed on the porch, covered in blood. But she has no idea what a truly monstrous secret that night really held. And when Daniel returns three years later, Grace can no longer deny her attraction to him, despite promising Jude she’ll stay away.

As Grace gets closer to Daniel, her actions stir the ancient evil Daniel unleashed that horrific night. Grace must discover the truth behind Jude and Daniel's dark secret . . . and the cure that can save the ones she loves. But she may have to lay down the ultimate sacrifice to do it—her soul.

Review:


A friend of mine had recommended this book to me, she said she loved it so I picked it up from the library. And to be honest, at first, I didn't love it. I mean, I liked it and it was pretty good, I just thought the beginning was too slow. Not a lot really happened and the stuff that did weren't as huge as I hoped.
But, I think the slow start was just to build the foundation of the book, you know, the "rising action" that builds up to the climax of the story. Once that was settled, things got good! My favorite parts of this book had to be between the middle and the end. I literally stayed up till three in the morning just to finish it. I loved the ending so much and the twists were just sort of mind blowing. 
As far as characters go, Grace was a good protagonist, very independent, kind of bossy, and willing to do anything for the one's she loves. And then she has Daniel who she is just confused about. But I absolutely loved Daniel. Hot, mysterious and definitively the bad boy type, what's not to love? And his creative side is a huge plus :D Some characters, though, i didn't like much. Jude, for one, started out like a good character, smart, nice, caring and sweet, but as the book goes on, he changes for the worse. When Daniel returns he lets his hate rule his life. I don't want to put out any spoilers so I'll leave figuring out why he hates him to you :) The mom was another one. Yes, she's very nice and motherly, most of the time, but there are times where she acts like just so... so... controll freak-ish when things went wrong she tried to ignore then like they would just leave. And if that were the case, i think we'd all ignore a lot of things....I thought April was a good friend for Grace, though, and I liked her character. But I really didn't like Gossip Queen Lynn...
Anyway, i think i should start a rating system on books because I'd give this a solid Pi (3.14.... that was a joke, it's okay to laugh). But seriously, I would give it something between a three and four out of five, just for the ending alone. It was an overall good book and I definitively can't wait to read the next! The Lost Sailor, here I come!


At least, I will, once I finish the other fifty books I have in line to read. O_o