Words on Paper

[Review] Prized (#2) by Caragh O'Brien

2012-01-26T18:00:00.000-08:00

Title: Prized {goodreads}
Series: #2 in a trilogy [My review for Birthmarked]

Authors: Caragh O'Brien

Publication (dd/mm/yyyy): 10/11/2011

Publisher: Simon & Schuster UK

Source: For review (thanks to publisher!)
Precautions: Violence | Sexual Content | Profanity

Pages: 368

My Rating:

Fantabulously awesome Book!!!

Summary:

Fleeing from the corrupt society of the Enclave, Gaia Stone heads into the harsh environment of the wasteland with her baby sister, Maya. They survive only to be captured by Peter, a ranger from Sylum, a strange village which seems to have as many laws as the Enclave. And when the ruthless village leader takes Maya, Gaia is forced to stay and submit to the strict social code, or risk losing her sister forever.

Then Gaia discovers that Sylum has a secret; a deadly fever strikes down anyone who tries to leave, holding the villagers prisoner. Desperate to escape with Maya, Gaia is determined to uncover the truth about the sickness, whatever it takes. But when Leon is captured too, she is faced with another impossible choice: the boy who won her heart in the Enclave, or Peter, for whom she can't deny her growing feelings.

If Gaia is going to survive in this new world she needs to learn to trust her instincts, and her heart . . .

My thoughts:

SPOILERS AHEAD-READ ON ONLY IF YOU'VE READ BIRTHMARKED.
Or you just want to read this review.

~ Final thoughts ~

PRIZED introduces readers to an alternative dystopian society where women rule. The stakes are made even higher as Gaia's baby sister is taken away from her. Gaia's decisions may not always be right, but the extraordinary character development she undergoes more than makes up for it. The love square exemplifies the troubles in a society where such a male-female ratio and female ruling exist, while also being entertaining and surprisingly fresh. Readers will relish in this delicious and readable sequel to BIRTHMARKED.

Caragh O'Brien manages to completely blow me away again, with the second book in this dystopian YA series. I was actually worried that this book wouldn't live up to the first book, 'Birthmarked' - which I still have not stopped raving about - but really those anxious thoughts were in vain. Because 'Prized' was everything I could have wanted and more.

MY SYNOPSIS

'Prized' picks up shortly where 'Birthmarked' ends. Gaia has just escaped the Enclave - baby sister Maya in tow - and is now fighting her way through the Wastelands in hopes of finding the place her Grandma supposedly mapped out for her. As death approaches both girls, outrider Chardos Peter rescues them and leads them to Sylum. A community overpopulated with males and where females (mlasses and mladies) dominate. As far as the Matrarc (the leader) is concerned, "Gaia's sister" Maya is dead, and Maya is taken away from Gaia to live with able-bodied carers who will not endanger the baby's life.

Since the Sylum is in a serious deficit of mlasses and there are about 9 men to every woman, in this society touching is taken extremely seriously. So when Gaia gets close to both the Chardos boys, Peter and Will, things get even more complicated when she discovers that Leon is alive and has made it to Sylum. As a prisoner. Gaia wasn't sure if she wanted to continue midwifery after her last failed birth (her mum's), but natural instinct led her back to what she'd always known, and instantly she's indispensible. Until she gets in trouble and the Matrarc holds Leon captive until she caves in to the Sylum's outrageous customs.

In Prized, you can expect Gaia to struggle so much with her beliefs, against an unstoppable power that she finds both unflappable and disconcerting. Some of her decisions lead to much irritating-to-read strife, but that's how people learn.

THE STORY

In 'Prized' Gaia is in yet another dystopic society, Sylum. At the beginning it seems like such a great place - until Gaia begins to discover some odd things about it all. Firstly, there's the whole no-touching policy that's linked to the male-female ratio. How exactly did the community slowly dwindle down in female numbers? Stranger still, why do people get unbearably sick when they first arrive to Sylum, and why do people who try to escape die? Every mystery that Gaia and her friends uncovers bends the mind much in the same way as the mysteries in 'Birthmarked' did. I loved speculating alongside the characters.

There is less action in 'Prized', more internal thinking and dialogue. Not a bad thing, if you were to ask me. I loved finding out more about the society, about Gaia and her values, how her past memories have affected her, who the Chardos boys are, what the cracks in this society were, etc. Basically, I found it really hard to put this book down. Caragh paces this book so well that I barely even saw the pages flick by!

THE WRITING

'Prized' is Caragh O'Brien's sophomore title, and if I do say so myself her writing has improved greatly since her debut. This is evident in the fact that I was still glued to the pages despite the decrease in action comparative to her debut title. That said, if you loved the writing in 'Birthmarked' you'll find yourself well at ease in 'Prized'.

The book is sprinkled with details on the environment that allowed me to easily picture each scene. There is something minimal yet sufficient about Caragh's writing style that I just adore. I would not say that the writing quality is the best component of this book, but it's not clunky, it doesn't distract, it's not long-winded and boring. It's very on par with good YA novel writing styles. What I love about these books is that they're set in a future where development has gone backwards and O'Brien doesn't let us forget that.

THE CHARACTERS

I loved Gaia so very much in 'Birthmarked'. I was a bit worried when I read reviews in which readers were disappointed in the decisions Gaia made and how she's not as strong-willed or revolutionary as she was before. But. She is. She just loses her way. There is nothing better than characters you love that disappoint you but REDEEM themselves, and boy, does Gaia redeem herself. She's still the kickass heroine I know and love!

I actually love most of the characters in this book, while I have conflicting feelings about a few (Olivia and Roxanne, for instance). Leon returns! And I still love him, because despite his attitude for half of the book it's so evident that his love for Gaia is too strong for words. Peter and Will almost give Leon a run for his money though, but I think it was because of what Leon and Gaia went through in 'Birthmarked' that I always rooted for them to work it out.

Norris, the Lodge cook, is great. I held a soft spot for him from the very first time we meet him. There's so many things endearing about him, despite the brute quality he puts on. The bond he forms with Gaia is incomparible - he's like a father to her, though I'm not sure she ever realised it.

Dinah and the Libbies. And the expools and the men in general. I just love the power and energy they bring to the end of the book. They really teach Gaia so much about what she believes in, and they help Gaia remember that.

THE ROMANCE

Maybe no one agrees with me on this one (I haven't checked), but Caragh made a love SQUARE work! I don't know, I found Gaia's interactions with each guy so very interesting and entertaining to read. They each have their sweet and sour spots. I was pleased with how Caragh dealt with it all. The romances were actually kind of a "side-effect" to the society: since there are more men than women in Sylum, marriage and relationships are very competitive, which is reflected in Gaia's case with the three guys.

THE ENDING: It was really satisfying for me. Everything gets tied up, meaning there is no cliffhanger! No spoilers from me. There is a lead-up for the next book though. We will know where the next book will start off, and from then on, who knows?

PRECAUTIONS NOTES: There is a lot more childbirth in this book. Descriptive. Yes, hm, quite. Also some implied violence, but nothing TOO bad. Nothing too descriptive, I should say. No swearing, no need to worry about that. All around, nothing too obscene.

Quotes:

First lines

"She grabbed the hilt of her knife and scrambled backward into the darkness, holding the baby close in her other arm. Beyond the fire, the wasteland was still, as if the wind and even the stones had frozen in the night to listen, and then she heard it again, a faint chink, like a football in pebbles. Someone or something was out there watching her."

Favourites

"'You can't swim, you like to argue, and now you're afraid of a little fish poop?' He laughed again. 'Remind me why I came along with you.'" (pp. 194-195)

Buy:

* cheapest Australian e-store price

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS

INTERNATIONAL READERS

Amazon | The Book Depository

All links from Booko, because I'm too lazy to search each individual store anymore.

Extras:

Other PRIZED reviews

Tina Reviews: 4 stars {link}
In the Good Books: 4 stars {link}
Idle Shadows of a Literary Life: 5 stars {link}

Squeaky Books: 5 ~~stars~~ flowers ;) {link}

I have received this review copy in return for an honest review.

Challenge: ---

[Review] Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi

2012-01-25T18:30:00.000-08:00

Title: Shatter Me {goodreads}

Authors: Tahereh Mafi

Publication (dd/mm/yyyy): 01/11/2011

Publisher: Allen & Unwin
RRP: $17.99

Source: For review (thanks to publisher!)
Precautions: Violence | Sexual Content | Profanity

Pages: 348

My Rating:

Satisfying Read

Summary:

Juliette hasn't touched anyone in exactly 264 days.

The last time she did, it was an accident, but The Reestablishment locked her up for murder. No one knows why Juliette's touch is fatal. As long as she doesn't hurt anyone else, no one really cares. The world is too busy crumbling to pieces to pay attention to a 17-year-old girl. Diseases are destroying the population, food is hard to find, birds don't fly anymore, and the clouds are the wrong color.

The Reestablishment said their way was the only way to fix things, so they threw Juliette in a cell. Now so many people are dead that the survivors are whispering war-- and The Reestablishment has changed its mind. Maybe Juliette is more than a tortured soul stuffed into a poisonous body. Maybe she's exactly what they need right now.

Juliette has to make a choice: Be a weapon. Or be a warrior.

In this electrifying debut, Tahereh Mafi presents a world as riveting as The Hunger Games and a superhero story as thrilling as The X-Men. Full of pulse-pounding romance, intoxicating villainy, and high-stakes choices, Shatter Me is a fresh and original dystopian novel—with a paranormal twist—that will leave readers anxiously awaiting its sequel.

My thoughts:

BEAR WITH ME!

At first my rating was a 5, then a 4. Now it's 3.5 and I'll tell you why. Taken at face value, if I go along with the ride, I could just say I really enjoyed Shatter Me. And I did. By the end.

If you're really into adventures that are heavily reliant on a romantic aspect, then you are going to love this. Mafi also tries extremely hard to be poetic and intricately detailed in her writing. Most of the time she succeeded. Other times it was grating and slowed the pacing right down. There will be examples.

These are my personal opinions and that's fine if you don't agree with me. Not everyone will. I liked the premise, but I felt that the execution never completely lived up to it, or the expectations I'd formed for it.

~ Final thoughts ~

Shatter Me is: a whirlwind adventure; an extraordinary battle fought between the good and the bad, the powerful and the weak, the damaged and even more damaged; an intensely written romance that will live up to any supernatural fan's expectations. Tahereh Mafi has written a strong debut novel that blends together action, romance and suspenseful drama that will surprise readers.

"I've been locked up for 264 days.
I have nothing but a small notebook and a broken pen and the numbers in my head to keep me company. 1 window. 4 walls. 144 square feet of space. 26 letters in an alphabet I haven't spoken in 264 days of isolation.
6,336 hours since I've touched another human being. (p. 1)

** This must be the most difficult book I've ever had to review before, so bear with me if it's just all over the place and confusing. I wanted to reread the book so that I could make proper notes this time around, but I'm just not the note-taking kind of blogger.

Shatter Me is a strong debut that nicely captures the creepy, the sexy, the actiony and the freaky. If you're looking for a YA book that has X-men resonances, this one's worth the read. When I finished reading 'Shatter Me', I was ready to give it a 5 star rating, but the truth of it is . . . well, those feelings of awe were temporary. (In that I'm not raving about it now, but I appreciate with Mafi has done with her book.)

At the beginning, especially, Juliette's voice is harrowing to the point where you feel as though you are being suffocated in a jail cell with her. She passes the time with numbers, and also her thought processes are vividly imagined.

"I always wonder about raindrops.
I wonder about how they're always falling down, tripping over their own feet, breaking their legs and forgetting their parachutes tumble out of the sky toward an uncertain end. It's like someone as they is emptying their pockets over the earth and doesn't seem to care where the contents fall, doesn't seem to care that the raindrops burst when they hit the ground, that they shatter when they fall to the floor, that people curse the days the drops dare to tap on their doors.
I am a raindrop. (p. 5)

It can seem a little overdone, but I highly praise Mafi's lyrical prose; there's a level of sophistication in the writing that few YA books attain. It's a bold move, that's for sure. She also incorporates striked-out text that is an acquired taste, and it took a while for me to get used to it.

Now, getting to the big part of the book that I just couldn't love was the romance between Juliette and Adam. It felt too excessive at parts and grated on my nerves when I would have liked something more--something that didn't rely so heavily on the romance aspect that the love interest provides.

"Adam.
Oh Adam.
Adam who knows exactly what I'm capable of.
My heart is a water balloon exploding in my chest. My lungs are swinging from my rib cage. I feel as though every fist in the world has decided to punch me in the stomach. I shouldn't care so much, but I do.
He'll hate me forever now. He won't even look at me. (p. 94)

I'm not much of a fan of the romance in this book, but don't take my word for it too seriously. These kinds of romances just aren't for me, but most YA readers will delight in it all. I do however like the little backstory we learn about the two of them. It was so, so sweet. :) To get things straight: their history = cute and sweet, their actions and how much Juliette thinks about him = not so much.

As for Juliette herself . . . she undergoes many, many changes throughout the course of this first book in the series. At the beginning she's a wreck, which is reasonable considering she has never been able to touch people without fearing the consequences. Even her own parents are afraid to be near her. Despite that, she still manages to remain kind and unable to turn her heart over to evil and darkness. She gains strength, mostly through her romance with Adam, but also by herself. The overall mood of the book shifts as her world and her relationships and her outlook changes.

Something that is compared to X-men just HAS to have a super-evil villain, right? In this case, the name's Warner, and he's just so bad he's good. He has got to be the most warped villain I've ever seen in a book before. What sets him apart from others, is that he also manages to retain some level of sympathy from the reader. He's such a complexly drawn character that he's not ALL black. At one point, I'm sure I felt that he wasn't even the enemy here, although that thought did not last long! There's also a slight attraction that Warner has . . . though I like my literary guys with just a little less crazy. Still, just for Warner alone, Shatter Me is one of those stories that will not go away.

[Juliette is unwillingly being tested on her "skills"; led into a room with nothing but a one-way-mirror/window on the wall. Then, floor to ceiling, spikes emerge. . . .]

"The door squeals open and a toddler waddles in wearing nothing but a diaper. He's blindfolded and hiccuping sobs, shuddering in fear.
...
"If you don't save him," Warner's words crackle through the room, "we won't, either."
...
Saving him is simple: I need to pick him up, find a safe spot of ground, and hold him in my arms until the experiment is over.
There's only one problem.

If I touch him, he might die.
(p. 166)

Shatter Me does not disappoint if you're looking for some action. From memory the action scenes are written surprisingly well. Even better than the action scenes, in my opinion, was just guessing what was going to happen next! The suspense in not knowing was phenomenal, making this book unputdownable! The ending provides a strong base for the second book, but it kind of suffers from anti-climax. Keep in mind that if you're looking only for action, the heavy writing style, especially at the beginning, may bore you.

One other thing . . . the cover. I just have to talk about it. Juliette does not ONCE wear a white dress, so I have absolutely no idea why the cover features her wearing one. Most of the time she's in rags. If they wanted to chuck a dress on it (the cover), they could've gone for purple or yellow(?), since those actually make sense. I do like the slashes, though.

It should also be noted that I consider this more supernatural than dystopian. The world-building didn't cut it for me, though we get to see the bleakness of the world environment, I think.

Buy:

* cheapest Australian e-store price

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS

INTERNATIONAL READERS

Amazon | The Book Depository

All links from Booko, because I'm too lazy to search each individual store anymore.

Extras:

Other SHATTER ME reviews

YA Reads: 4.5 stars {link}

Hooked to Books: "...blew me away" {link}
Reclusive Bibliophile: "I was hooked from the get go..." {link}
Lauren's Crammed Bookshelf: A- {link}
I Swim For Oceans: 4.5 stars {link}

~ Where are the Aussie reviews? Comment and I'll add it in! ~

I have received this review copy in return for an honest review.

Challenge: Debut Author Challenge 2011 (I know it's already 2012, but I read this in 2011)

[Blog Tour] Fated by Sarah Alderson -- first chapter teaser

2012-01-23T18:00:00.000-08:00

Hi there! I'm here starting off the blog tour for FATED, which is the amazing paranormal YA genius Sarah Alderson's sophomore book release, which comes out in Australia February 1st. I raved about her debut 'Hunting Lila' (see my review) and though I'm still reading 'Fated' I can safely say that her books do not disappoint!

'Fated' starts off with an action-packed sequence that will have you on the edge of your seat and wanting more! Enjoy this exclusive prologue and first chapter sneak preview! :)

Prologue

'Her name is Evie Tremain. She's seventeen years old. She lives in Riverview, California. Now go and kill her.'
   The stillness in the room erupted as chairs scraped the floor. There were a few hushed whispers, a stifled laugh and then the door slammed shut, cutting the noise off like a guillotine.
   Lucas stood slowly, taking his time. He didn't notice that the others had left the room, or that Tristan was standing by the window watching him. All his attention was focused on the photograph he was holding in his hand.
   It showed a girl - dark-haired, blue-eyed - looking straight at the camera. It was a close-up. He could make out the shadows her lashes were making down her cheeks. A strand of hair was caught like a web over one eye and in the corner of the shot he could see her hand, reaching up to brush it away. Her lips were slightly parted, like she'd been sighing just at the moment the lens snapped shut. Her expression was . . . Lucas paused. He wasn't sure what her expression was. She looked unhappy, or maybe just pissed off.
   She was a Hunter, though, so what did he expect? And this one had a history that would make anyone unhappy. Or pissed off.
   'Is something wrong?' Tristan asked.
   Lucas looked up from the photograph, then glanced over towards the door, realising that he was the only one left in the room. He looked back at the older man.
   'No, nothing's wrong,' he answered quietly.
   'Well, you'd best get going then,' Tristan said, his eyes not leaving Lucas’s face. 'You don't want to miss out on all the fun.'
   Lucas looked down once more at the picture of Evie Tremain, feeling momentarily ambivalent towards her. Then he scrunched the photograph up into a ball and dropped it on the floor. It didn't matter what lay behind that expression because soon nothing would. She was just another Hunter to be dealt with. Next week or next month there would be another. And then another. And dealing with Hunters was what the Brotherhood did.
   Lucas didn't look back at Tristan but he could sense his eyes burning into his back as he left the room. Moving away fast down the corridor, Lucas realised he could no longer hear the others. He was faster than any human – he knew because he'd had to outrun them many times - so it didn't take him long to reach the basement garage.
   There was just one ride waiting for him. Caleb and Shula were sitting in the front seats, the engine renewing, the back door flung open.
   'Come on!' Shula yelled. 'What's keeping you? There's a Hunter to kill and the others are going to beat us to it!'
   Lucas smiled and shook his head, ducking into the back seat and slamming the door shut. He let his head relax back into the seat and watched the speedometer climb as Caleb slammed the Mercedes out of the underground garage and onto the highway. Lucas stared out of the window. This stretch of highway was always quiet, but at night it was more so - there were only a few factories and gas stations for at least twenty miles in each direction. The Mission was a good base for the moment. Tristan had chosen well.
   'She's pretty.'
   Lucas turned his head. Shula was leaning across from the front seat, waving the photograph of Evie in his face. He grunted and went back to looking out of the window.
   'Think she'll put up a fight?'
   Lucas looked back at Shula. She was studying the photo intently, as though she could will it to life. Her raven-black hair was spilling over her shoulders, her skin glowing freakishly in the green dashboard lights. He almost smirked.
   Shula tried so hard to fit in and yet here she was looking as unhuman as a Shapeshifter midshift. He smiled softly. 'Let's hope so.'
   Shula grinned back, then kicked her legs up onto the dash and spun the volume dial on the radio to high.

Chapter 1

Evie Tremain was so busy inspecting the minuscule amount of change that had been deposited on the table, in the midst of a lake of ketchup next to the pile of dribbling plates, that she didn't immediately notice the man who had taken a seat at the table behind her.
   'Ev,' Joe called.
   She looked up at the sound of her boss calling and saw him indicate the table behind. She pocketed the change and spun around, remembering to plaster a smile onto her face as she did so.
   'Good evening, what can I get you?'
   The words died on her lips. The man at the table was staring right at her, evaluating her like she was discounted meat in the freezer section, his gaze travelling up and down her body. Evie shifted her weight onto one hip, resting her hand on it and waited for some eye contact.
   Not another one. She sighed to herself. And he was old enough to be her dad, which was really quite gross. She raised an eyebrow and waited until the man lifted his gaze to meet her own.
   'Can I get you something?' she asked, offering him a tight smile.
   He sank back into the booth, seemingly unembarrassed at having been caught checking her out.
   'Yes, please, I’ll have a soya decaff grande latte,' the man replied, without taking his eyes off her face to read the menu.
   Evie paused, hand still on hip, wondering whether she should bother pointing out that the menu had just one option for coffee. Filter. Always caffeinated. She didn't. She bit her lip, took the pencil from behind her ear and scribbled on the pad: 1 x coffee.
   'Coming right up,' she said brightly, and turned on her heel. She flipped the order down on the counter and Joe took it, peering at her scrawl. Then he reached for the coffee pot sitting on the hot plate behind him.
   'Was he giving you any trouble?' he asked, tipping his head in the soya latte customer's direction.
   Evie glanced over her shoulder. The man was looking out of the window now. He was about forty she figured, maybe older. Black, with a goatee. He was wearing a solid chunk of gold on the little finger of his right hand. Evie noticed only now she looked at him again that he was dressed kind of weirdly for round here. She looked closer.
   The last time anyone had worn a suit in town had been at her dad's funeral, almost a year ago. And this man was actually wearing a three-piece suit, complete with a cherry-red cravat that frothed at the neck, making it look like someone had stabbed him in the jugular. Apart from that, though, the suit kind of worked on the man. Or, rather, the man worked on the suit. She wasn't sure how.
   'Do you want me to serve him?'
   'Huh?' Evie turned back to face Joe.
   'I saw the way he was looking at you,' Joe said. 'Do you want me to serve him?'
   Evie smiled as she took the cup of coffee from Joe's hand and slid it onto a tray. 'No, I got it. I need the tips, anyway.'
   'Things can't be that bad, surely?' Joe asked. His grey moustache tightened around his lips like a caterpillar undergoing some kind of metamorphosis.
   'Nope. I just want out of here – you know that, Joe.'
   Joe pulled a face. The kind of face that Evie was sick of seeing. She grabbed the tray before he could say anything else and carried it towards the man at the table.
   'One decaff latte,' she said, lowering the tray. 'Grande,' she added, looking at the little cup Joe had given him. At the same moment the door opened and Evie's attention swung towards it. The coffee cup slid sideways.
   She heard Joe shout for her to watch out at the same time as she saw the boy in the doorway's eyes widen. Evie's arm shot out, rescuing the coffee cup as it bounced off the edge of the tray. She held it in mid-air, watching as the coffee stilled itself.
   She placed it down carefully on the table. 'Sorry about that,' she murmured, glaring over her shoulder at the guy still standing in the doorway.
   'Good reflexes,' the man said.
   'Huh, yeah,' Evie muttered, backing away towards the counter. Joe was there, watching her with that look on his face again. She shrugged at him. He scowled over the top of her head at the boy in the doorway, before turning his back and starting to wipe down the counter.
   Evie took a deep breath and pushed a loose strand of hair out of her face. She tried to tell herself to stay calm but she could already feel the heat rising in her lungs and scorching up her windpipe. She could feel her pulse quickening with the usual endorphin hit of rage.

   She turned furiously to face the boy, catching him just as he was about to speak. 'What?' she demanded, cutting him off. The boy shut his mouth and took a step towards her. He glanced around. The coffee shop was empty at this time of night, apart from the guy in the weird outfit. She was thankful. The whole town had already had their noses smashed up against the windows of their business. She didn't need any more witnesses to what had happened between the two of them.
   'What do you want? I'm working,' Evie hissed.
   'I know. I'm sorry,' the boy began, then stopped, staring down at his feet.
   Evie huffed impatiently, aware that her hands were curled into tight fists at her sides.
   'I just wanted to talk,' the boy said.
   'I have nothing to talk about,' Evie said, studying him, realising that her voice was shaking. If he looked up, if he looked at her with those hangdog brown eyes of his, if she allowed herself for one moment to feel sorry for him, then she would hate herself later. She turned her back on the boy and moved over to an empty
table to clear the cups and plates.
   She started stacking, aware that the boy had crept up behind her and was now hovering by her shoulder. She put the stack of cups down carefully on the table and turned to face him. 'Tom, I'm working. Please leave.'
   'OK.' Tom nodded. He was close to her, almost brushing arms with her. 'But later, after work, can we talk then?'
   She glanced up at the clock over the counter and saw that Joe was looking sideways at her, concern splashed all over his face. God, it was like living in a goldfish bowl without even a stone or some fancy plastic plants to hide behind.
   'Tom, why would I want to talk to you? You killed my best friend. The best friend you were also seeing behind my back. Or had you forgotten?'
   Tom took a step back, his face crumpling. 'Ev, it was an accident.'
   She took a step back. 'Oh, so you weren't driving?'
   Tom swallowed hard. It was a strangled sound. Evie hesitated for a second but all the anger and the hurt dammed behind the smiling waitress routine rushed to the surface. It made her cheeks and jaw ache; it made her whole body ache, until she felt like her muscles had calcified from the effort of holding everything she
was feeling inside.
   She stared now into Tom's familiar brown eyes, measuring the reaction her words had caused, thinking how strange it was that once upon a time she had run her hands through his hair, linked her fingers through his, had kissed him and thought it was possibly the best feeling in the world. It was strange because now she hated him.
   She drew in a breath. 'She shouldn't have even been in the car.'
   Tom dropped his eyes to the floor again. Evie felt the anger subside like a break in the storm. She was suddenly overwhelmingly tired. She just wanted to not have to go through this scene every day like she was living on repeat.
   She wanted to have someone wipe her memory clean. But seeing as she wasn't likely to get hit on the back of the head and wake up tomorrow with amnesia, the only alternative was to get the hell out of this small town filled with small-town people where the gossip about her and Tom had kept the knitting circle busy for so long they had knitted enough blankets to see the Salvation Army through a nuclear winter.
   She wanted to be able to walk down the street among strangers – people who didn't know her and who didn't look at her with crinkled eyes and tilted heads and ask her how she was doing with that strange inflection in their voices that made her want to scream until she was hollow.
   She wanted out. So she picked up the stack of cups, walked past Tom and set them on the counter. She kept her back to him until she heard the door jangle behind her.
   'You all right?'
   Evie looked up. Joe was standing in front of her, his face folded into a frown.
   She sighed. 'Yeah, I'm fine. I just. . . you know, I'm just sick of him apologising, as if an apology can ever make up for what he did.'
   Joe nodded, taking the tea towel from where he'd flung it over his shoulder and starting to wipe the counter. 'That kid's sure got some guilt to live with.'
   Evie glared at Joe. 'Well, he should be living with it in jail.'
   Joe pressed his lips together and nodded non-committally. "This one's sure taking his time,' he said, changing the subject and nodding his head at the man in the red cravat.
   Evie shot a glance over her shoulder. The man was still looking out of the window. 'Listen, if you want me to lock up, I've got it,' she said to Joe.
   'Are you sure, Evie?' he asked, taking the cups and placing them one by one into the dishwasher below the counter. 'Don't you have a home to get to?'
   'No, it's OK. I need as many hours as I can get.' She shrugged.
   'Still planning on leaving town, then?' Joe asked with a sigh.
   Evie considered his face before answering. He reminded her of her father, the same ridge-lined face and deep-set eyes, the same soft tone and silvering hair.
   'Sorry, Joe,' she said finally. 'I've got to get out. Only bad stuff happens here.'
   Joe nodded slowly. 'I hear you,' he said. 'Listen, if you get any trouble from this one,' he indicated the man drinking coffee, 'then you just call me.'
   Evie smiled at him. 'I've got it, Joe. I can take care of myself.'
   'I know, I know,' Joe said, reaching for his jacket on the peg behind him. 'One thing your father did right was seeing you could take care of yourself.'
   'Just one thing?' Evie asked, smiling, her eyebrows raised.
   'Oh, you know what I'm saying,' he mumbled. 'Your father was a good man, Ev Tremain.' He paused a moment. 'And speaking as his best friend I know that he'd be real proud of you.'
   Evie's stomach muscles contracted violently, forcing all the air out of her lungs, and leaving her feeling like she was underwater,drowning silently. She swallowed twice and tried to smile at Joe. He reached over and patted her hand before leaving.
   When she heard the clang of the door, she reached forward, resting her palms on the counter, and took a deep breath and then another. She pushed her hair back out of her face and straightened up before turning around with a smile.
   'Can I get you anything else?' she asked the man at the table by the window.
   He was looking straight at her, as though he'd been watching this whole time. Her back straightened and her shoulders tensed. The man's face suddenly split into a wide smile. 'Just the check,' he said.
   Evie ripped a page off her pad and went to place it in front of him, then hovered by the table with her arms crossed over her chest.
   The man rummaged for his wallet, then drew out two crisp ten-dollar bills. He dropped them onto the table and Evie frowned before looking up. The coffee only cost a dollar something.
   The man caught her eye. 'Sounds like you could use the extra tips,' he said.
   She narrowed her eyes at him. Nothing came for free. That had been one of her father and Joe's favourite sayings. Her dad would walk in here, pull up a counter stool and demand a free coffee. Joe would laugh, pour him one and tell him nothing came for free, before setting the bill in front of him.
   Evie stepped forward and, with her eyes still on the man, picked up the notes. She folded them and put them in her apron pocket.
   'Thanks,' she said, reaching for the empty coffee cup.
   'I’m opening a store just over the road there,' the man said. Evie looked at where he was pointing, over the street at Cardman's Old Bookstore. It was boarded up and had a To Let sign hanging off it.
   'Really?' Evie asked, unable to contain her surprise. Her mum usually knew everything going on in this town before the people it was happening to even knew it themselves, but she'd said nothing to Evie about a new shop opening up.
   'Yes, it's more of a boutique than a store, really,' the man said and Evie noticed for the first time that he had an accent, though she couldn't quite place it.
   'What kind of a boutique?' Evie asked. Her mother would want to know.
   'Clothing. Fashion,' he said. 'Seems like the one thing thistown is missing is some good fashion.'
   Evie studied him again for any sign that he was joking. 'Are you expecting to turn a profit?' she asked.
   The man threw back his head. 'Sometimes it's not about the money, it's about the dream,' he laughed.
   'Your dream is to dress the women of Riverview in couture?' Evie laughed. 'Good luck with that. This is a farming community, the only fashion the women here are into involves denim and leather – and probably not in the way you're thinking.'
   She shook her head and made to move off. Weird. This man was so weird. And so soon to be bankrupt.
   'You know, I'm looking for a sales assistant, if you're interested,' the man called to her back.
   Evie paused. She put the coffee cup down on the counter and turned to him. 'What are you paying?'
   The man shrugged. 'Thirty dollars an hour.'
   Evie's eyebrows shot up. Thirty dollars an hour? Was the man insane? That was almost four times what she made here.
   'Forty,' she replied, blanking her face.
   An amused smile seemed to be skirting the man's mouth.
   'Thirty-five.'
   She wanted to burst out laughing but she held it in, biting the inside of her cheek instead. 'Deal,' she said. 'When do I start?'
   'Tomorrow.'
   Evie thought about it. 'I work two other jobs – this one three evenings a week from five till ten and then I help my mother out in my dad's store on Saturdays and Wednesdays. Other than that,
   I'm all yours.'
   The man appraised her. 'When do you find the time to sleep?'
   'I m trying to save as much money as I can right now, so any extra work is good.'
   'Well then, Evie, I guess we have a deal. Tomorrow is Tuesday, so I'll see you at ten a.m.'
   She frowned at him. How had he known her name? She guessed he must have heard Joe or Tom say it earlier. 'OK.' She nodded.
   'Can I know who I'm working for?'
   The man stood and Evie stepped back involuntarily. He was enormous – solid muscle underneath his suit – and the seams   looked fit to burst on his inside thigh, not that she was looking.
   But she sure as hell noticed that he wasn't built like the farmers around here, who were wiry and tough – he was built more like a body builder.
'My name is Victor,' he said, holding out his hand. 'Victor Lassonde.'

Here's the line-up for the rest of this blog tour!

24th January: Words on Paper - First Chapter Hosting
25th January: Novels on the Run - If you could control your Fate themed interview
26th January: Shiirleyy's Bookshelf - Video review
27th January: Tales of the Inner Book Fanatic – Fated Top Trumps and Fated Cast Battle Off
28th January: She Known as Jess - Grazia-esque magazine interview with the Fated cast
29th January: Read Me, Bookmark Me, Love Me Giveaway - 5 copies of Lila and Fated with posters!
30st January: Book Probe Reviews - Host video message to Aussie fans from Sarah
31st January: Sarah Alderson live facebook chat on Read Me Love Me Share Me
1st Feb: Eleusinian Mysteries - Evie and Lucas Q&A
2nd Feb: The Rest is Still Unwritten - Wise words interview from Sarah.

About the Book ('Fated')

Goodreads | Amazon | The Book Depository

Blurb:

IF YOU CAN'T CHOOSE WHO TO LOVE,
HOW DO YOU KNOW WHO TO TRUST?

Lucas Gray is half Shadow Warrior, half human, and a member of the Brotherhood - a group of assassins tasked with killing the last purebred Hunter on Earth before she can fulfil a dangerous prophecy. That Hunter's name is Evie Tremain.

Evie is seventeen-years-old, a waitress, and has just discovered she is the last in a long line of demon slayers - and an unwilling participant in a war between Hunters and Unhumans that has raged for the last thousand years.

About the Author (Sarah Alderson)

Twitter | Website

Having spent most of her life in London, Sarah quit her job in the non profit sector in 2009 and took off on a round the world trip with her husband and princess-obsessed daughter on a mission to find a new place to call home. After several months in India, Singapore, Australia and the US, they settled in Bali where Sarah now spends her days writing by the pool and drinking lots of coconuts.
She finished her first novel Hunting Lila just before they left the UK, wrote the sequel on the beach in India, and had signed a two book deal with Simon & Schuster by the time they reached Bali.
A third book, Fated, about a teenage demon slayer, which was written during their stay in California, will be published in January 2012 by Simon Pulse (an imprint of Simon & Schuster). She is currently working on sequels to both series of books.

In My Mailbox (61): Christmas!!!

2012-01-21T18:00:00.000-08:00

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi of The Story Siren, and inspired by Alea at Pop Culture Junkie! Participants are required to tell all about what they've received in the mail--anything bookish!

~~~~~

Sunday 22nd of January 2012 ~ Notes

This is my first IMM post since/after:

My desk collapsed (and I've actually got a book tower to support it :P)
Christmas
2011
All the author-blogger crap that's been going on
SOPA and stuff

I got some really great books! I hope you did too. So, here we go. :)

Also, for anyone who celebrates, it's Chinese New Year tomorrow! Hoorah. I'll be going out for lunch or dinner with my family tomorrow, and that's why I'm up late formatting this stuff like a chump. I'll update this post with the "since last imm" segment and links if I don't finish it.

* All release dates go in the format (dd/mm/yy)

* Any books I have already read will have a sort of mini-review and the rating I have given it up now until written.

* = Up for swap

Review tk = a review for this book will be posted on the blog soon

For Review:

Wisdom's Kiss by Catherine Gilbert Murdock (Feb 2012, Allen & Unwin, Requested)
Sea Hearts by Margo Lanagan (Feb 2012, Allen & Unwin, Requested)
Spoiled by Heather Cocks & Jessica Morgan (Feb 2012, Allen & Unwin, Requested)
Fracture by Megan Miranda (Jan 2012, Bloomsbury, Requested? ~ review tk!)
The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith (Feb 2012, Hachette, Requested ~ currently reading!)
Advent by James Treadwell (Feb 2012, Hachette, Requested)
Pure by Julianna Baggott (Feb 2012, Hachette, Requested)
The Fault in Our Stars by John Green (Jan 2012, Penguin, Just showed up -- review tk!)
Born Wicked by Jessica Spotswood (Jan 2012, Penguin, Just showed up -- next up!)
Wonder by R.J. Paolini (Feb 14 2012, Random House, Just showed up)
Fated by Sarah Alderson (Feb 2012, Simon & Schuster, Requested -- currently reading!)
The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin (Feb 2012, Simon & Schuster, For giveaway!)
Everneath by Brodi Ashton (March 2012, Simon & Schuster, Just Showed Up)

-------

Won:

The Hunger Games (#1, The Hunger Games trilogy) by Suzanne Collins

[I read the UK version that I got from my Secret Santa in 2010 but I'm so glad I have both UK and US copies now :) Thanks Felicia @ The Geeky Blogger] (review tk)

Christmas Gifts (=D):

Sea by Heidi R. Kling
Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys (reread it from christmas day <3)
The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater
Psych Major Syndrome by Alicia Thompson
God is in the Pancakes by Robin Epstein <33 (review tk)
Blood Red Road by Moira Young (I was swept away! Review tk)

I really can't get over these books! They're so so so pretty I'm glad I got to read half of them before I had to turn back to review books. :P

Bought:

Don't Breathe A Word by Holly Cupala (review tk!)
A Million Suns (#2, Across the Universe) by Beth Revis -- currently reading!
The Book of Blood and Shadow by Robin Wassermann (sounded too good to pass on!)

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

Q: What February 2012 releases are you waiting on?

For me, I've got the following in my budget:

The Disenchantments by Nina LaCour (HC)
Orchards by Holly Thompson (PB)

Happy Reading! Comment with your IMM links.

Since last IMM...

(<-- most current)

Will be updated.

Maria V. Snyder Author Chat!

2012-01-19T21:14:00.000-08:00

Click to go to the Harlequin Teen Facebook page!

Anyone who has delved into the YA genre should, at the very least, know who Maria V. Snyder is. The big component that runs commonly through all her novels, so I've been told, is her heroines--they are strong and independent and powerful. Bold. Stubborn. Amazing.

Having only read Touch of Power myself {review link}, I can't personally proclaim that Snyder's other books are awesome, but I can say this: CHECK HER OUT!

And now an impromptu poem . . .

For all you Aussies,

this coming Friday (27/01),

make sure to tune in to HarlequinTeenAus at Facebook!

Even if you haven't read her books.

Or if you've only read one.

Regardless, you could:

Ask about her life.

Ask about her breakfast.

Ask about her shoe size.

Ask away!

I'll be there.

Will you?

[Review] The Girl in the Steel Corset by Kady Cross--book one in the Steampunk Chronicles

2012-01-14T18:00:00.000-08:00

AU cover

Title: The Girl in the Steel Corset {goodreads}

Authors: Kady Cross

Publication (dd/mm/yyyy): 01/06/2011

Publisher: Harlequin Teen // $19.99

Source: Publisher sent for review
Precautions: Clean Mild violence, mild romance
Series: #1 in the Steampunk Chronicles

Pages: 388

My Rating:

Amazing read

Summary:

In 1897 England, sixteen-year-old Finley Jayne has no one - except the thing inside her...

When a young lord tries to take advantage of Finley, she fights back. And wins. But not all Victorian girls have a darker side that makes them capable of knocking out a full-grown man with a single punch...

Only Griffin King sees the magical darkness inside her that makes Finley special - makes her one of them. The orphaned duke takes her in from the gaslit streets against the wishes of his band of misfits: Emily, who has her own special abilities; Sam, who is part robot; and Jasper, an American cowboy with a shadowy secret.

Griffin’s investigating a criminal called The Machinist - the mastermind behind several recent crimes by automatons. Finley thinks she can help - and finally be a part of something.

My thoughts:

~ Final thoughts ~

Kady Cross has taught me a valuable lesson: steampunk is cool! Cross introduces an X-Men-esque concept to historical (1897) London in a captivating story that will appeal to YAs and fans of historical fiction and the supernatural. Even at 388 pages, I'm sitting here wishing there was more; I'm so glad that this is the first in a series, because I don't know how I'd be able to say goodbye to these delightfully dazzling characters so soon.

~ MY THOUGHTS (in full) ~

Excuse me while I sigh heartily, such is the enormity of my love for this book. Kady Cross really surprised me--I had no idea I'd enjoy The Girl in the Steel Corset so much! Cross pitches this as League of Extraordinary Gentlemen meets teen X-men. I didn't know there were even going to be supernatural elements, just that it would be steampunk. There's so much to like in this book and there's a little something for fans of every genre.

Right from the get-go, I was swept up by the illustrative writing style - it definitely ranks among the more educated in the YA genre (both in structure and choice of words). Written in a third-person omniscient narrative voice, the reader is able to keep track of where each main character is, and what in the blazes they're getting up to. Those more accustomed to first-person may find themselves overwhelmed or detached, and that's okay--it won't be for everyone. I personally love the style when it's done well, and well done did Cross write it!

Quite possibly the most impressive component in this first book in a series, is the undeniably charming cast of characters. Our heroine, Finley Jayne, a recently cast-off servant, ends up at the Greythorne House in Mayfair London (where only the rich reside) following a nighttime road accident.

There, she meets a group of colourful and privileged teens: the illustrious Griffin King, whose trusting personality is as endearing and beautiful as he is himself; Emily, a small sweetie with a vocal Irish lilt, ingenious in the art of machinery and science; and Sam, who is kind of like a mama bear--big and strong and will tear you limb from limb if you mess with his family. They are closely investigating the crimes of the Machinist, who is behind all of the terrible things that have been happening with the automatons and machinery in London. They have secrets, and they're connected by far more than just their love for each other.

I love books with this kind of character dynamic ~ a group of friends who live together and achieve great things together and have fun and fight and have fall outs. . . . I fell in love with each member--even Sam won me over despite his whininess and untrusting jealousy.

Romance is aplenty in The Girl in the Steel Corset, don't you worry! It takes much more of a front seat than I'm usually comfortable with, but I was actually okay with it. There are two love triangles, but not once did they bother me. I think I'm much more forgiving of love triangles with historical-type books, since that's just how things were back then (or the way I perceive it).

Finley has Griffin King (who is working towards bringing easing in and controlling Finley's bad side) and Jack Dandy (who is attracted to the strong, bold and seductive nature of her bad side).

Emily gets Sam (whose jealousy was palpable) and Jasper (a cowboy with secrets of his own, of course ~ he's much more centered compared to Sam).

The story consists of a healthy mix of slow, descriptive passages and fast, action-y scenes. I was never bored. *sigh* I just loved this book, and even at 388 pages, I sit here wishing there was more. I'm so glad that this is the first in a series, because I don't know how I'd be able to just say goodbye to these characters so soon.

Quotes:

* from the AUS edition; page numbers may differ

First lines

"The moment she saw the young man walking down the darkened hall toward her, twirling his wooden stick, Finley knew she'd be unemployed before the sun rose. Her third dismissal in as many months.

(I LOVE the first chapter. I'd been laughing so hard I was in tears!)

Favourites

(Griffin took Finley back to the manor and Sam is not happy about it)

""We should have taken the girl to the hospital," Sam muttered, leaning against the corner of a sofa. He rubbed the back of his neck with his left hand. "Bringing her here puts us all at risk. What if she's a wanted criminal?"
Griff tilted his head. "I don't think it would have been safe to take her to the hospital, for her or the staff."
His friend raised a heavy brow, sarcasm written all over his face. "So you decided, 'hell, why not bring her home with me?' Well done."

(p. 29)

Buy:

* cheapest Australian e-store price

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS

INTERNATIONAL READERS

Amazon | The Book Depository

All links from Booko, because I'm too lazy to search each individual store anymore.

Videos:

Trailer

Harlequin in Conversation: Meet the author!

Extras:

Other reviews of 'The Girl in the Steel Corset'

Badass Bookie: 6/5 {link}
Nice Girls Read Books: 5 stars {link}
Y.A. Reads: 4.5/5 hearts {link}
Manda's Movements: 4/5 stars {link}
Alpha Reader: 4/5 stars {link}
Eleusinian Mysteries: 3/5 {link}
inkcrush: "a wild ride" {link}

Books With Bite: 5 bites {link}
Reading Teen: 6/6 chess pieces {link}

The prequel--

It's recommended that you read the prequel first, because Finley is a bit cold at the beginning and apparently you'll feel a bit more acquainted with her if you read this first. I don't know how non-Kindle readers can get the free (?) ebook... If you've read this, let me know if it's worth the read!

I have received this review copy in return for an honest review.

Challenge: ---

[Review] Cinder by Marissa Meyer--Book one in the Lunar Chronicles

2012-01-12T18:00:00.000-08:00

* check out the "extras" section for giveaways! *

Title: Cinder {goodreads}

Authors: Marissa Meyer

Publication (dd/mm/yyyy): 29/12/2011

Publisher: Penguin UK: Puffin
RRP: $16.95

Source: Publisher sent for review
Precautions: 11+ - Mild violence/death
Series: #1 in the Lunar Chronicles

Pages: 370

My Rating:

Good read

Summary:

(From AU/UK pb)

A forbidden romance.A deadly plague.Earth's fate hinges on one girl . . .

CINDER, a gifted mechanic in New Beijing, is also a cyborg. She's reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister's sudden illness. But when her life becomes entwined with the handsome Prince Kai's, she finds herself at the centre of a violent struggle between the desires of an evil queen - and a dangerous temptation.

Cinder is caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal. Now she must uncover secrets about her mysterious past in order to protect Earth's future. Is she brave enough, and strong enough, to help save everything?

My thoughts:

~ Final thoughts ~

Cinder is a grippngly intense sci-fi/dystopian reimagining of the well-known Cinderella fairytale. It's got the basics that make the ever-popular fairytale, but Meyer has cleverly turned it on its head.

Cinderella-'Cinder'-is a cyborg and a talented mechanic, whose prince charming is charming indeed; whose community is riddled with a deadly plague, as well as ongoing threats of war against the Lunars; whose identity is a complete mystery. And it is her true identity that may just be the savior of New Beijing and the world as they all know it.

All in all, CINDER is not to be missed! The first book in the Lunar Chronicles is action-packed and full of interesting ideas with an ending that will leave you wanting more.

~ MY THOUGHTS (in full) ~

If I do have children (if the Big Guy doth let it be so), and more specifically a daughter, this would be the type of book I'd love for her to indulge in. It's got so much appeal to girls, but Meyer's 'version' is much grittier and fantastical, with a heroine that kicks butt!

Cinder has great talent and inner-strength that shines through and through. Not even that--she's different in a way that makes her instantly exiled and unpopular, and while she never completely embraces these differences, readers will be able to sympathise with her insecurities.

Prince Kai is kind of your average pretty-boy Prince Charming. He's got the easygoing attitude and he and Cinder share similar ideals about the world. Even in the face of adversity, he tries his best to stand his ground. Readers will be sure to fall for Iko, Cinder's android buddy, and Peony, Cinder's (nice) stepsister--but you'll wish you hadn't after the events that unfold.

What also sprung out at me was the whole backstory with the Lunars and the New Beijing Commonwealth society. If you thought that cyborgs and androids in a Cinderella re-imagining was far-fetched, you'll be even more blown away when you are introduced to the Lunars. They're, quite literally, out of this world and insane!

Of course there is a romance between Prince Kai and Cinder, but there are barriers that disable them to be together. I'm totally rooting for them though! Even from chapter one I wanted them to end up together because they're just so cute, and two is better than one. :P

What didn't agree with me was the fact that I was able to guess a lot of the [ZING!] moments due to its predictability leading up to a moment. Also, the ending just left me with a strange feeling ... like it's unfinished and there's meant to be a special chapter latched on at the end. There is a sense of oncoming action and struggle, but we only get to see the lead-up to it, which is frustrating since we have to wait another year to find out what happens next!

The third person narrative worked fine enough, and I was able to feel Cinder's thoughts and feelings with ease. It took a couple of chapters to get the hang of the writing style.

Quotes:

* from the UK ARC and may differ to the final version

First lines

"The screw through Cinder's ankle had rusted, the engraved cross marks worn to a mangled circle. Her knuckles ached from forcing the screwdriver into the joint as she struggled to loosen the screw one gritting twist after another. By the time it was extracted far enough for her to wrench free with her prosthetic steel hand, the hairline threads had been stripped clean.

Favourites

(Peony will be joining Cinder and Iko as they go to the junkyard looking for machine parts)

"Reaching out, Cinder pulled her [Peony] back. "Careful, your dress."
     Peony surveyed her skirt, then the grime-covered shelves, then waved Cinder's concerns away. "Really, can I [come]? Sounds exciting."
     "It sounds dirty and stinky," said Iko.
     "How would you know?" said Cinder. "You don't have scent receptors."
     "I have a fantastic imagination."

(p. 33)

Buy:

* cheapest Australian e-store price

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS

INTERNATIONAL READERS

Amazon | The Book Depository

All links from Booko, because I'm too lazy to search each individual store anymore.

Extras:

Trailer

Other reviews of 'Cinder'

Alpha Reader: 4/5 stars {link}
inkcrush: "a wild ride" {link}
Nice Girls Read Books: 5 stars {link}
Stacked: "one buzzed novel that totally delivers" {link}

Giveaways and author events

* all giveaways are open as I post this

{International} Giveaway and Book Signing Recap @ Between the Covers
{International} Audiobook Giveaway @ IceyBooks
{US only} Audio Giveaway @ Karin's Book Nook
{US only} ARC Giveaway @ Shorties & Sweets
{US only} ARC Giveaway @ Popcorn Reads
{US only} Audio Giveaway @ Ramblings of a Teenage Bookworm
{US/CAN only} Book and Mirror Giveaway @ My Bookish Ways
{UK only} Book Giveaway @ A Dream of Books
{UK only} Book Giveaway @ Feeling Fictional

Virtual Book Blog Tour! (from writing to wontons to music)

I have received this review copy in return for an honest review.

Challenge: 2012 Debut Author Challenge

YA Historical Fiction Challenge 2012 & January is for the past

2012-01-11T17:00:00.000-08:00

I'm such a fan of historical YA fiction, and I'm glad that Sab over at YA Bliss seems to feel the same way, since she did make this challenge a reality. I've already started off the year on good terms with my historical YA books, so I've deemed January 2012 my personal month for historical YA. With a couple others sprinkled in.

Level 2, I choose you! (because it rhymes)

This means that I solemnly (well, actually I'm giddy because I love HYAF) swear that I shall read at least 10 historical YA book in 2012.

Level 2: 10 books

My list so far includes (own | ~~read~~ | intend to own in 2012):

Plain Kate/Wood Angel by Erin Bow
Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys (re-reads count . . . right?)
The Girl in the Steel Corset (#1) by Kady Cross
The Luxe (#1, Luxe) & The Lucky Ones (#3, BYT) by Anna Godbersen
Vixen & Ingenue (#1, #2) by Jillian Larkin
Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly
What I Saw and How I Lied by Judy Blundell
Faithful by Janet Fox & Forgiven (#1, #2) by Janet Fox
In the Shadow of the Lamp by Suzanne Dunlap
Emerald by Karen Wallace
Guardian of the Gate & Circle of Fire (#2, #3, Prophecy) by Michelle Zink
When We Were Two by Robert Newton
Born Wicked by Jessica Spotswood
The Jewel and the Key by Louise Spiegler
Kat, Incorrigible by Stephanie Burgis

Progress count: 3/10

I'm a paperback book buyer, so lots of HB releases in 2012 will be part of my 2013 Historical YA challenge. ;)

If you're planning on reading ANY of the following books, or you're participating too, please do friend me on Goodreads! I'd love to discuss and share opinions on historical YA. :)

[Review] Tempest Rising by Tracy Deebs

2012-01-10T18:00:00.000-08:00

Title: Tempest Rising {goodreads}

Authors: Tracy Deebs

Publication (dd/mm/yyyy): 01/09/2011

Publisher: Bloomsbury UK
RRP: $15.99

Source: Publisher sent for review
Precautions: 12+ - Violence and slight gore
Series: #1

Pages: 340

My Rating:

Satisfying

Summary:

(From the UK PB)

Tempest Maguire wants nothing more than to surf the killer waves near her Californian home and hang out with her boyfriend. But Tempest is half mermaid and, as her seventeenth birthday approaches, she will have to decide if she really does want to ttay on land or if she wants to give herself to the ocean like her mother did before her.

When she meets Kona, a gorgeous surfer whose uncanny abilities also hint at an other-worldly life, the lure of the sea becomes too strong and Tempest finds herself in the midst of a battle for survival. The entire ocean's future hangs in the balance.

Is she brave enough, and strong enough, to help save everything?

My thoughts:

~ Final thoughts ~

In 'Tempest Rising', expect an evocative depiction of underwater life, that highlights the characteristics--both serene and deadly--of a world so foreign. This glorious setting wraps itself around a tender story that is told by an irritating heroine whose inane naivety does more harm than good in her actions.

What shines through in this book is its vivid imagery and setting--this is a great summer read--as well as the satisfying amount of focus on oceanic mythological creatures. The exploration of betrayal and grief, family and friends, identity and self-discovery, belonging, home, love, come through in every single page.

Recommended for paranormal fans. If you're a fan surfing, the beach and ocean, or mermaid stories--this book is worth picking up. Overall I wasn't blown away, but it's not bad by any means, and I do wish to continue reading on.

MY SYNOPSIS

Tempest, 16-going-on-17, is a beach critter whose heart resides in the surf. She's just an average teen, until one day while surfing she loses balance on the board and almost drowns due to the obvious wipeout. Tempest NEVER wipes out. On the verge of losing consciousness, she seems to grow a tail underwater, giving her the ability to make it back to the surface within a second.

Tempest can't explain what happened that day--at least not to her friends and gorgeous surfer boyfriend. But she can't ignore the changes that are going on. Like her mother, who disappeared five years earlier, Tempest is part-mermaid. She has a choice: stay on land with all that she knows, or join the world that her mother (supposedly) left her to become part of.

An ancient battle of intense hardship and turmoil beckons her. She may just be the answer to help stop the war that has gone on far too long. Her name isn't Tempest for nothing.

I've always loved being near or in water, so books that are set at the beach or in the ocean are welcome anytime. Deebs' portrayal of the underwater world evoked in me a desire to go scuba-diving or something. I'd love to see the "phosphorescent shades of blue and green and red and yellow" that light up and can be seen for miles (167). The descriptions are beautiful and were never sparse or in excess--there was always just the right amount of visuals.

The plot unfolds pretty quickly--I can say I was never bored. The book mentions and describes mermaids, selkies and other sea creatures which just made the whole setting more believable. I liked that Tempest focused on mermaids being the only part-human sea creature, because I'm sure that's what many people know only of. There are some deadly and evil creatures in the book, capable of doing nasty things. Think along the lines of decapitation and impalement. Action and peril persist for the last half of the book, with the first half setting a good foundation of what comes later. I deem this book 'unputdownable' for the last half of the book.

There is a love triangle, kind of, in this book. But it's not like the whole two-guys-fighting-for-the-girl. The girl, Tempest, is already with someone--Max. They have a rocky on-and-off relationship, but there are grounds of deep trust and caring laid out firmly. Until Tempest meets Kona, a mysterious surfer guru whose skills are phenomenal. I can't say I loved the romance aspect of this book, but I was satisfied with the way Tempest's relationship with Max ended up. As for Kona . . . I don't know. I wasn't swept away by their romance or anything. It was a tad too insta-romance-y for my tastes, but I'm sure others found it all irresistible.

I liked the characters, for the most part. I don't even want to talk about Tempest too much, since she irritated me way too many times, but she's a bit of a Mary Sue and whiny and immature. And now, a list of characters I enjoyed:

- Tempest's surfer guy friends ~ With them, Tempest is just one of the guys. I'm mentioning them collectively because they don't have established, distinct personalities or backstories--they're pretty minor characters.

- Tempest's dad ~ He's got such a chilled personality (like Raymundo from Rocket Power!), and is also faithfully dedicated to his wife, despite her leaving him. He's got that unyielding strength that is pretty beautiful.

- The enemy!!! Haha. Well, at least they kept it interesting.

What continued to disturb me about this book was the writing style. It's in the choppy rhythm of the sentences. Example: "The humming inside me grew worse, took over me, until I felt like one huge, vibrating guitar string. I didn't know what it was, hadn't felt anything like it before." (265) The little sentence additives (the extra details within the commas) clawed at me. These sentences actually read like song lyrics (try it). It would have been fine if they didn't find their way to nearly every single paragraph. I only noticed this in the second half of the book--I actually liked the way the first half was written.

One thing I'm still deciding on is the ending. I'm thinking I didn't like it that much. There really wasn't too much consideration on her family, and the way it was written, it felt a bit all over the place and hazy. Or maybe that was just me.

Quotes:

First lines

"I was ten the first time I saw her. I remember this clearly, because my mother left exactly two weeks later--on my eleventh birthday. (Prologue)

Favourite lines

"I still don't know what possessed me to do what I did next. Ignoring the rain, ignoring the cold, ignoring my chattering teeth and half-frozen appendages, I climbed out of the car and let the rain and the wind wash over me.
It tore through my hair, whipped against my tender skin until tears of pain rolled down my face. Lightning rent the sky, flashed above the ocean like a bomb exploding mere moments before thunder shook the ground. And still I stood there, refusing to get back in the car where it was safe.
My name isn't Tempest for nothing." (p. 49)

Buy:

* cheapest Australian e-store price

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS

INTERNATIONAL READERS

Amazon | The Book Depository

All links from Booko, because I'm too lazy to search each individual store anymore.

Extras:

US Cover

Other reviews of 'Tempest Rising'

The Story Siren: "Tempest Rising is FINtastic!!" {link}
Books with Bite: 5 stars {link}
Nice Girls Read Books: 4 stars {link}
IB Book Blogging: 4 fairies {link}

I have received this review copy in return for an honest review.

Challenge: ---

[Review + Giveaway] Sister, Missing by Sophie McKenzie

2012-01-09T18:30:00.000-08:00

Title: Sister, Missing {goodreads}
Authors: Sophie McKenzie
Publication: January 2012 (AU/UK)
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
RRP: $16.99
Source: For review (thanks to publisher!)
Precautions: 11+ - Violence, guns, relationship (clean)
Pages: 250 (ARC copy)
Series: #2, sequel to Girl, MIssing {review}

My Rating:

Summary:

It's two years after the events of Girl, Missing and life is not getting any easier for sixteen-year-old Lauren, as exam pressure and a recent family tragedy take their toll. Lauren's birth mother takes Lauren and her two sisters on holiday in the hope that some time together will help, but a few days into the holiday one of the sisters disappears, under circumstances very similar to those in which Lauren was taken years before. Can Lauren save her sister, and stop the nightmare happening all over again?

My thoughts:

* this is the sequel to Girl, Missing ~ if you have not read that book, you have been warned that there are spoilers in this review *

~ Final thoughts ~

I'm surprised--I found myself deeply moved by the end of this book, the sequel to 'Girl, Missing'. The dramatic and thrilling plot, the twists and turns, and the more well-rounded and developed characters really demonstrate literary development made on McKenzie's part.

MY SYNOPSIS

Lauren Purditt has figured out a system with her two families--her adoptive and her paternal, and it works most of the time. Two years later, Lauren takes her little sister Madison to the beach . . . and loses her. The events of two years ago are happening all over again, because if Lauren knows anything at all, she knows that Madi isn't just lost--she was taken.

Her American, birth mum is distraught, left in tatters by the situation. Her new boyfriend Rick, is supportive and eventually takes charge of the situation, having had experience in crime cases in the past. Lauren is convinced the kidnapper is Sonia Holtwood, the very same villain who almost killed her two years ago who was also let out of jail recently. Could history be repeating itself? And just what does the offender want from her?

MY THOUGHTS

Sister, Missing held my attention from beginning to end - I was simply not able to let go of the story and the twists and turns that came with it. I was kept on edge the whole time. In my opinion, the suspense was written much better in this book than its predecessor.

Lauren is just as stubborn and selfish as she was in the first book - in her pursuit in finding and rescuing her little sister, she does the following (and this is just the tip of the iceberg): ignores her other sister's outward expressions of grief and worry--instead she berates her when she attempts to make nice; runs directly into trouble, unarmed, without a plan, endangering her best friend as a result.

The other characters we met in 'Girl, Missing' that we also see in 'Sister, Missing', were much more likeable. Even Shelby, who used to abuse Madison. Especially Shelby. It felt like, by the end of it all, that Shelby had grown as a person, and we as readers really know her.

Jam and Lauren have been maintaining a long-distance relationship for two years, and Lauren has concerns that their fire has died down. When he arrives, he appears more distant and distracted, and Lauren has doubts about his feelings for her now. Their interactions are sweet and their relationship is sure to enchant younger teens.

The writing matches the pacing, so for that it's not that complex. The sentences are cut short so as to keep the flow going. This makes for a really quick read. The ending is bittersweet and also leaves room for questioning and further thought as to what may have happened afterward.

I was worried that I would not like this book at all, but this book's ending was its saving grace. Overall, the plot points were much more suspenseful and had me on edge at all times. I really just could not put this book down! If you're looking for a quick YA thriller, give this series a try. I might actually miss a couple of the characters--they really grew on me!

Trailer:

Buy:

* cheapest Australian e-store price

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS

INTERNATIONAL READERS

Amazon | The Book Depository

All links from Booko, because I'm too lazy to search each individual store anymore.

Giveaway:

Aussie only.

The first one to comment with "I love thrillers!" will win:

Girl, Missing by Sophie McKenzie (Finished copy)
Sister, Missing by Sophie McKenzie (ARC)
Various YA swag, whatever I have that features thriller/mysteries

I will e-mail the winner, so make sure to provide your e-mail address when you comment!

* I'm very behind on my giveaways, which I will work out soon *

Extras:

Developing the characters in Sister, Missing
Sister, Missing playlist

I have received this review copy in return for an honest review.

Challenge: ---

[Review] Girl, Missing by Sophie McKenzie

2012-01-09T18:00:00.000-08:00

Title: Girl, Missing {goodreads}

Authors: Sophie McKenzie

Publication: January 2012 (repackaged)

Publisher: Simon & Schuster
RRP: $16.99

Source: For review (thanks to publisher!)
Precautions: 11+ - Mild violence and kidnapping

Pages: 282

My Rating:

Summary:

Lauren has always known she was adopted but when a little research turns up the possibility that she was snatched from an American family as a baby, suddenly Lauren's life seems like a sham. How can she find her biological parents? And are her adoptive parents really responsible for kidnapping her? She manages to wangle a trip across the Atlantic where she runs away to try and find the truth. But the circumstances of her disappearance are murky and Lauren's kidnappers are still at large and willing to do anything to keep her silent...

My thoughts:

~ Final thoughts ~

Girl, Missing by Sophie McKenzie, while a chilling and heart-thumping thriller, lacked logic and character likeability, which made it difficult to enjoy completely. With several heartfelt moments, a budding romance that stands from solid grounds but is shakily executed, and sinister villains that make for intense suspense, I have no doubt that 11-14 year olds will eat this up. Most of all, this book addresses the Who am I question, in which many readers will be able to sympathise with Lauren's situation of having been adopted and never knowing her real parents.

MY SYNOPSIS

Lauren is adopted and has never known her real family, so when she is asked this Who Am I question for a school homework task, she begins to wonder what her real parents were like. Frustrated that she's never been able to remember, she asks her best friend Jam's mum, a spiritualist, to help her. In a state of deep relaxation, she remembers. Lauren, age 3, and her real mum, long black hair and spirited smile, playing hide-and-seek at a beach somewhere. In her heart, she knows she needs to--by any means necessary--find her real family. Upon research, she discovers a Martha Lauren Purditt, whose details match . . . but Martha was born in America. Lauren's always lived in London. But Lauren needs to know, so she sets up a family vacation, to America.

The overall story was compelling and one that I'm sure many people will be able to relate to. If I were adopted, I'd have wanted to know who my 'real family' was too. What McKenzie does a bit differently to other authors who have touched on this subject, is that she delves into the legal implications of international adoption. She also gives Lauren a choice, and room to decide whether she wants to go back to her old life in London--the life she's always known, or to return to the parents who have spent forever trying to recover the child that had been taken away from them.

What really didn't agree with me about the plot was just how unbelievable so many of the actions and decisions were. And how the right characters just happened to be there at the right time--or the wrong time, in Lauren and Jam's case. To me, it was just way too illogical and coincidental for me to believe it all. Also, money. It never seemed to be a problem for anyone--and to travel from London to America isn't that cheap that people can be whizzing from one country to the next, without seriously breaking the bank. Once again, this might be something that younger readers will be able to forgive.

In GIRL, MISSING, there was an expansive cast of characters, but I was never confused or unable to keep up with remembering names and roles. More the problem was in the one-dimensional feel the majority of them had. A little of the dialogue was stiff, and the only character that seems to develop or change during the course of the book is Lauren. That said, I did find a couple to be extremely likeable, and I wouldn't mind seeing them return in the sequel. (Madison, Glane, Jam's mum Carla) Despite the bits of maturity that Lauren picks up along the way, I never got to the point where I cared about her, or even what happened to her. Her selfishness was just so unforgiveable.

On the upside, McKenzie's writing is fairly easy to get through. It's simple and gets to the point. You'll be turning those pages, wanting to know how things turn out for Lauren in her quest for self-discovery.

Quotes:

First lines

"Who am I?
I sat at the computer in Mum's office and stared at the essay heading. New form teachers always give you homework like that at the start of the year.
Who am I?

Buy:

* cheapest Australian e-store price

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS

INTERNATIONAL READERS

Amazon | The Book Depository

All links from Booko, because I'm too lazy to search each individual store anymore.

Extras:

Inspiration for writing Girl, Missing

I have received this review copy in return for an honest review.

Challenge: ---

[Review] Touch of Power by Maria V. Snyder

2011-12-26T16:30:00.000-08:00

Title: Touch of Power {goodreads}

Authors: Maria V. Snyder

Publication (dd/mm/yyyy): 01/01/2012

Publisher: Harlequin Teen
RRP: $19.99

Source: For review (thanks to publisher!)
Precautions: PG (15+) - Violence

Pages: 394

My Rating:

Summary:

Laying hands upon the injured and dying, Avry of Kazan assumes their wounds and diseases into herself. But rather than being honored for her skills, she is hunted. Healers like Avry are accused of spreading the plague that has decimated the Territories, leaving the survivors in a state of chaos.

Stressed and tired from hiding, Avry is abducted by a band of rogue...moreLaying hands upon the injured and dying, Avry of Kazan assumes their wounds and diseases into herself. But rather than being honored for her skills, she is hunted. Healers like Avry are accused of spreading the plague that has decimated the Territories, leaving the survivors in a state of chaos.

Stressed and tired from hiding, Avry is abducted by a band of rogues who, shockingly, value her gift above the golden bounty offered for her capture. Their leader, an enigmatic captor-protector with powers of his own, is unequivocal in his demands: Avry must heal a plague-stricken prince—leader of a campaign against her people. As they traverse the daunting Nine Mountains, beset by mercenaries and magical dangers, Avry must decide who is worth healing and what is worth dying for. Because the price of peace may well be her life....

My thoughts:

* In red and green are the "essential" stuff you can
read if you're just skimming through here. *

~ Final thoughts ~

A finely woven tale of magic and spirited adventure, TOUCH OF POWER is just one of those stories that will draw readers in and never let go. Maria V. Snyder has definitely made a fan out of me - this was my first book written by her but it will not be my last! I do not read much high fantasy, and reading this book is just a reminder that I should.

You know those books that just light up your face, the ones you could talk on and on about? The books that keep you up until the wee hours of the morning, with unforgettable characters, a setting that is built extremely well, and a plot that is surprising and heart-racing and imaginative and strong? Yeah. This is one of those books, in my opinion.

MY SYNOPSIS

TOUCH OF POWER starts off when our main character Avry - who has been on the run for three years - heals a wailing child, is found out by the parents and is arrested, and will be hung. Except, a miracle occurs - a group of rogues bust her out. Avry is a Healer, and to just about everyone everywhere Healers are bad and fearful beings who began the nasty plague that has killed off countless people. The rogues don't plan to turn Avry over to King Tohon, who has issued out a high reward for any Healer captured. This group has been looking for a Healer for two years, because the only person able to stop King Tohon's destructive conquest has caught the deadly plague. But if Avry heals this man, that means she will not live.

CHARACTERS

Avry is hands down one of my favourite heroines - bold, intelligent, stubborn but in a good way because she has her own beliefs and values and knows where her priorities lie. She's not afraid to fight and keep on fighting; she doesn't give up. She's outspoken and brash and has a wicked sense of humour that can rub people the wrong way. Her unruly circumstances - the downfall of the Healer reputation with the plague - has torn her away from the world she's known, and she's had to stay in hiding for years. She's strong, even considering she doesn't know where her family is, or even if they're still alive. None of those characteristics felt contrived or forced - it felt like such an intrinsic part of her being that I believed every action, every word she spoke, every emotion she felt.

Then there is the gang of rogues who saved her from certain death. At the very beginning I had to make a little list so I wouldn't mix people up, but really, I didn't need it because they're just so endearing and memorable! I lost count how many times I just cracked up laughing, the guys joke around and tease each other so much, and Snyder writes their dialogue with such ease that I wouldn't be surprised if she spied on groups of guys for inspiration. There are five guys - Kerrick, the leader; Belen, a heart full of gold; Vinn and Quain, the monkeys; and Flea, who is, well, Flea (see quote ii.). I'll let you fall in love with them when you read it yourself. ;)

For the majority of the book, we are following the journey of Avry along with the rogues. But, along the way we meet many great characters.

PLOT

TOUCH OF POWER reminds me of GRACELING (Kristin Cashore), in that there is a lot of time spent moving from one town to the next, where many eventful things unfold. The overall storyline, as laid out above in the synopsis, is pretty simple. What really shines through is the depth in creating the world and the characters, and just the whole backstory behind the Healers and the plague, that we get little snippets of. Like the characters, we don't have the whole picture just yet.

There were so many shocking moments that it was really hard to put this book down. I loved the plot twists. Snyder certainly knew what she was doing when she wrote every little bit of this book. There's a meaning and connection in about everything that happens, and for that matter I love the fact that it all ends on a good note, but it leaves the reader with so many questions. The beauty of fantasy and dystopian fiction should be in the world-building, above all else. They make you question the societal rules and customs, the relations between rules/laws and ethics, and how they play with our own beliefs, as readers.

Ultimately, this book ends meaningfully and also allows ample breathing room for the second book in the series, with more than enough lingering questions to draw readers in to read on.

RELATIONSHIPS

I love the closeness within the group of rogues, and their bonds only grow stronger as they venture onward.

The romance takes a backseat to all the action and adventure, family and friendship. Suits me just fine. For the first half of the book there is no sign of any impending romance, but eventually sparks do fly. It's just, don't expect an insta-love progression. Hopeless romantics will swoon, probably.

WRITING

Dialogue? Genius.

Actions? Like I was right there.

Setting? As above.

As this is Snyder's ninth book, I'm sure if you've read any of her books you have an idea whether you like or don't like her writing style. I've already gushed on about how much I loved the dialogue.

COVERS

The covers for this book are so different to each other, but they all have significance to the overall story which I like.

Now that I've read the book I think I prefer the UK cover, though I'd be happy with any.

US (left, below): Probably the "prettiest" of them all. Includes peace/death lilies, Avry is pretty, but in my opinion too pretty (the makeup) in this cover. Love the font and composition of this one, as well as the profile of Avry.

UK (right, below): I like that there is forest in the background, as well as mountain. The cloak and overall look of Avry seems fair enough, and I can't complain about the effects emanating off her fingers. I don't like the text too much, especially the size of Snyder's name, but hey.

AU (top): I love that Avry is wearing a yellow dress! And the scar and Healer tattoo. There's also forest and mountain, and this one is brighter and more colourful than the UK. One thing is that, to me, it looks a bit historical romance-y, from afar.

Quotes:

First lines

The little girl wouldn't stop crying. I didn't blame her. She was dying after all.

Favourite lines

"Avry, why did you risk your life for me? Kerrick ordered you not to heal me. You suffered for days! You shouldn't have done it."
The room grew quiet. I spotted Kerrick near the doorway.
"Belen, I decide who I heal. Me. Not you. Not anyone. It's my life on the line each time. It's my decision. The only one I have left." I put my hand on his cheek. "You deserved to be saved. I had no doubts." (p. 71)

Buy:

* cheapest Australian e-store price

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS

~ with all Harlequin Teen books I'd recommend you buy directly from them ~

Harlequin Teen *

INTERNATIONAL READERS

Amazon | The Book Depository

All links from Booko, because I'm too lazy to search each individual store anymore.

Extras:

On Booko I saw this cover for the Australian version, and I'm so glad it's not the final one because it doesn't look like Avry, and it comes across too dark and paranormal for my liking, rather than plain fantasy.

Chapter one sneak preview ~ here

Maria V. Snyder's got some awesome contests going on ~ here

Other TOUCH OF POWER reviews

Manda's Movements: 5 stars {link}
Nice Girls Read Books: 5 stars {link}
Saz101: 5 stars {link}
A Book Obsession: 4 stars/butterflies {link}

I have received this review copy in return for an honest review.

Challenge: ---

Whoa, where did I go?

2011-12-24T00:28:00.000-08:00

This has nothing to do with anything.

Hah! So much for the Faves of Twentyeleven shindig [I have the lists, but the internet has just been extremely slow!]. I just didn't feel like posting anything, checking email or even looking at anything book-related online.

I have been reading some AMAZING books lately; if anyone were to check my Goodreads (which I actually do keep updated--not like my 'Currently Reading' section on the sidebar XD), they'd know that not only have I completed my reading challenge at 80 books for the year ~ I've also finally read The Hunger Games! As well as The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer, and only just half an hour ago did I put down Virtuosity by Jessica Martinez.

I would recommend any of them to fans of their respective genres/themes. The blog will be on a mini-hiatus for now. My review of TOUCH OF POWER will go up on the 27th--it was supposed to auto-post a couple of days ago, but Blogger has been funny on me lately (it saved as a draft).

But this does. Hello, rain books!

After the 27th, there'll be one challenges post, and then I'll meet you all over the new year jump.

:) So how have you guys been? Excited about tomorrow?

Let me know what you've been reading lately! Link to any interesting posts you want me to check out. Google Reader has hit the 1000+ mark. Again. Sorry I haven't been commenting!

Also, thanks for all the comments. Alerts get sent to my email, but I haven't been checking my email much either. :/ Basically I've just been a completely lazy blogger.

My December Reading List

Format: Author - Title (Date finished, Rating)

Carol M. Tanzman - dancergirl (1st, 3.5 stars)
Caragh O'Brien - Prized (3rd, 5 stars)
Gwendolyn Heasley - Where I Belong (4th, 3.5 stars)
Kirsten Hubbard - Like Mandarin (5th, 4 stars)
Maria V. Snyder - Touch of Power (10th, 5 stars)
Kirsten Hubbard - Wanderlove (12th, 5 stars)
Sophie McKenzie - Girl, Missing (14th, 3.5 stars)
Guadalupe Garcia McCall - Under the Mesquite (16th, 4 stars)
Marissa Meyer - Cinder (19th, 4 stars)
Michelle Hodkin - The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer (22nd, 4-4.5 stars)
Suzanne Collins - The Hunger Games (23rd, 5 stars)
Jessica Martinez - Virtuosity (24th, 4.5 stars)

Highlight books of December

Last 3 books of 2011

~ The Dead of Night by John Marsden (#2 of the Tomorrow series) -- currently reading

~ Tempest Rising by Tracy Deebs
~ The Nature of Jade by Deb Caletti

Early (Jan-May) 2012 book releases that are sitting on the top of my wishlist
~ Wanderlove by Kirsten Hubbard (love <3)
~ A Million Suns by Beth Revis (OMG! + RC)

~ Harbinger by Sara Wilson Etienne (just everything about it...the promotions, the cover, the synopsis--and it's a debut!)

~ The Fine Art of Truth or Dare by Melissa Jensen

~ The Catastrophic History of You and Me by Jessica Rothenburg

~ Insurgent by Veronica Roth (DOI!)

~ Struck by Jennifer Bosworth

~ The Last Princess

~ The Academie by Susanne Dunlap

~ The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith (RC?)

~ Fated by Sarah Alderson (RC?)

~ Incarnate by Jodi Meadows

~ Orchards by Holly Thompson (the PB release~I've been waiting for it!)

~ Stay by Deb Caletti (PB release)

~ We'll Always Have Summer by Jenny Han (UK PB to complete the series, which means I will finally get to read the Summer series, for summer 2012!)

~ The Girl Who Circumnavigated Fairyland in a Ship of Her Own Making (PB)

~ Moonglass by Jessi Kirby (PB)

and so on.

Merry Christmas to those who celebrate--

Happy New Year

Keep

Reading!

Note: none of these images are mine. I own NOTHING!!!

Faves of Twentyeleven Book Awards: Day One ~ Books

2011-12-18T18:00:00.000-08:00

I'm kind of sorry ~ this was really rushed and I haven't been able to include links/pictures. I'll be home later and fix it up then. I promise that Day Two will run much smoother... The internet's just really slow lately, and my mouse is acting up even more than usual (just for example, I can't drag images when editing posts).

1. Favourite book read in 2011
~ Divergent by Veronica Roth ~

Runners up: Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys, Where She Went by Gayle Forman, Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins -- all great reads that instantly made it to my to-reread-pile.

2. Most powerful book
~ Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys ~

Runners up: Saving June by Hannah Harrington, Forbidden by Tabitha Suzuma, Harmonic Feedback by Tara Kelly

3. Brilliantly funny
~ Feeling Sorry for Celia by Jaclyn Moriarty ~

Runners up: Beauty Queens by Libba Bray, Amplified by Tara Kelly, Touch of Power by Maria V. Snyder

4. Best ache-y, heart-breaking, tear-jerker read
    ~ Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys ~

Runners up: Where She Went by Gayle Forman, Saving June by Hannah Harrington

5. Most beautiful story
    ~ A Need So Beautiful by Suzanne Young ~
Just every single thing about this book was BEAUTIFUL

Runners up: Rival by Sara Bennett Wealer, Shadows on the Moon by Zoe Marriott

6. Delicious rainy day comfort read
    ~ Wanderlove by Kirsten Hubbard ~
Hilarious and is sure to transport you to the unruly lands of Central America.

Runners up: Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins, Beautiful Days by Anna Godbersen

7. Adrenalin-fuelled, unputdownable award
    ~ Divergent by Veronica Roth ~

Runners up: Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi, Hunting Lila by Sarah Alderson, Tomorrow, When the War Began by John Marsden

8. The Beautiful prose award
    ~ Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi ~

Runners up: Graceling by Kristin Cashore, Alaska by Sue Saliba

9. Most atmospheric and vivid setting
    ~ Daughter of Xanadu by Dori Jones Yang ~

Runners up: Shadows on the Moon by Zoe Marriott, Alaska by Sue Saliba

10. I-so-want-to-go-there award
    ~ Wanderlove by Kirsten Hubbard (Central America) ~

Runners up: Museum of Thieves by Lian Tanner (Fictional, "Jewel"), Saving June by Hannah Harrington (California), I ♥ NYC by Keris Stainton (New York)

11. Most original and imaginative
    ~ Shadows on the Moon by Zoe Marriott ~

Runners up: Slice of Cherry by Dia Reeves, Liesl & Po by Lauren Oliver

12. Best under-appreciated, hidden gem book
    ~ The Day Before by Lisa Schroder ~

Runners up: The Dust of 100 Dogs by A.S. King, Harmonic Feedback by Tara Kelly

13. I-had-no-idea-I-would-love-this-so award
    ~ Touch of Power by Maria V. Snyder ~
A solid 5 out of me. Beautifully crafted characters and a storyline that completely captivated me.

Runners up: Haunting Violet by Alyxandra Harvey (I figured this would be just an okay book, but it's so deliciously gothic and mysterious, really grabbed me from the start.), The Day Before by Lisa Schroeder (My first Schroeder book. Verse novels are very hit-or-miss for me, I've learnt. But The Day Before was pure contemporary YA magic.), Prom & Prejudice by Elizabeth Eulberg (I just did not like her first book, however this classic retelling was truly enchanting)

14. Most haunting story
    ~ Forbidden by Tabitha Suzuma ~
Anyone who has read this knows WHY!

Runners up: Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher (Okay, this was a re-read this year, but this book HAUNTED me), IF I STAY by Gayle Forman (Also, re-read this year, just can't let go of this story!)

15. Outside my comfort zone but gosh how I loved it
    ~ The Dust of 100 Dogs by A.S. King ~
This one surprisingly got me thinking into the wee hours of the night after I'd read it.

    ~ The Dark Divine & The Lost Saint by Bree Despain ~
Paranormal YA . . . enough said.

   ~ Winter's Shadow by M.J. Hearle ~
Another paranormal YA that I really ended up enjoying.

16. Series that I'm loving
    ~ The Dark Divine trilogy (It all ends next year with The Savage Grace! *excited and anxious*)
    ~ Prophecy of the Sisters trilogy (In honesty, I've only read the first book, but that was enough to make a fan out of me.)
    ~ Divergent series (Yeah.)
    ~ Birthmarked series (These books just suck me in.)
    ~ Bright Young Things series
    ~ The Tomorrow series

17. Always recommending this award *broken down into genres*

HISTORICAL
   Daughter of Xanadu by Dori Jones Yang (I implore any historical fiction fan to read this one! Looking for something culturally different and just beautiful and intelligent?)
   Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys (Will tear you apart, piece by piece, but the strength and hope of Lena and her family will leave you feeling, well, hopeful.)

CONTEMPORARY
   If I Stay & Where She Went by Gayle Forman (One of the few books I re-read over and over again.)
   Anna & Lola by Stephanie Perkins (So I read Anna last year, but how can you mention one without the other? They're equally gorgeous.)

DYSTOPIAN
   Divergent by Veronica Roth (PLEASE. If you only read one debut this year, make it this one.)
   Birthmarked by Caragh O'Brien (This seems to be pretty hit-or-miss with readers, but I just couldn't get enough of it!)

PARANORMAL
   The Dark Divine trilogy by Bree Despain
   Hunting Lila by Sarah Alderson

FANTASY
GRACELING by Kristin Cashore

   TOUCH OF POWER by Maria V. Snyder

18. Completely awesome premise award
    ~ Forgotten by Cat Patrick ~

Runners up: Cinder by Marissa Meyer

19. Would make the best movie
    ~ Graceling by Kristin Cashore ~

Runners up: Shadows on the Moon by Zoe Marriott, Cinder by Marissa Meyer

20. Want to re-read already
    ~ Saving June by Hannah Harrington ~

Runners up: Touch of Power by Maria V. Snyder, Shadows on the Moon by Zoe Marriott, Wanderlove by Kirsten Hubbard

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Remember to link your posts! Tomorrow we'll be discussing . . . characters!

My prequel to the FAVES OF TWENTYELEVEN BOOK AWARDS

2011-12-17T17:00:00.000-08:00

Oh hi there!

You might remember me. But really, I want you to remember Nomes (inkcrush), because if it weren't for her I would not even be holding a round-up of my favourites and most memorable moments of this book year.

We're at the crossroads, people. Can you feel it? The new year is upon us and I for one had an amazing year in 2011. Things can only go up from here! Personal life aside, I'm talking, books. You might be wondering: what's the point to this "prequel"? Well, I'm giving you a chance. One day before this notorious event, to get to making those lists! Here's where all the categories are!

I've had so much fun doing this, and have spent way too long agonising over my choices ~ as of right now I have read 80 books this year. With only two weeks left, I'll be rushing to cram some more in!

~ Additions to books/authors I've read this year ~

I've been doing a bit of backtracking, and there are so many beautiful things that authors, publishers and fans have whipped up that I am awestruck. This only includes books I've read this year, or authors whose books I read this year.

New books

Sequel to Daughter of Xanadu (Dori Jones Yang) has a name--Son of Venice. Okay, I don't care what you think, it's happy dance time! Source.
Short story of Tortured (Caragh O'Brien)--set in-between Birthmarked and Prized--is FREE to read for all.
Companion novel to Where I Belong (Gwendolyn Heasley), A Long Way From You will be told in Cowgirl-style Kitsy's perspective! 2012, source.

Music

Between Shades of Gray (Ruta Sepetys) has a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack, which I've had on repeat for ages! It really does bring me back to the book. Download it for free HERE!
Amplified (Tara Kelly) has its own site! Playlists and C-Side music will be available in the future. :D

~ Endings and Beginnings ~

My reading list in 2011: I've finally updated my list on the page, with my personal 'honourable mention' titles picked out ~ click here to view!
My 2011 reading challenges: A wrap-up will be posted on the 27th, along with my 2012 reading challenge intros. I've been really lazy with actually reporting back to challenge sites and linking reviews up...
In My Mailbox: Nothing has come through the mail in a fortnight, so I suppose my next IMM feature will be next year! I'll definitely share any book-related goodies that I get for Christmas; hope to see what you all get. :)
Christmas giveaway: Aussies, you'll want to get in on this one! Happy Birthday To Me by Brian Rowe + YA paranormal of your choice (in my giveaways pile) + Swag pack + Clockwork Angels poster and notebook. Enter here!

~~ some YA paranormals include: Hush Hush or Silence by Becca Fitzpatrick, The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting, Gravesminder by Melissa Marr--and more!

+ paranormal YA of choice + swag + poster & notebook

Book Previews (1): January 2012

2011-12-16T15:00:00.000-08:00

Source: we♥it

I'm sure I'm not the only person who loves reading previews and short samplers of upcoming book titles. Especially for books you're really excited about. This is kind of a new meme thing...unless if I end up just dropping it. Please, comment and share your excitement! :D

Irises by Francisco Stork {Goodreads}

Release Date: January 1, 2012

Read the excerpt!

The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith {Goodreads}

Release Date: January 2nd 2012

Read the excerpt!

The Queen of Kentucky by Alecia Whitaker {Goodreads}

Release Date: January 2, 2012

Read the excerpt!

A Million Suns (Across the Universe, #2) by Beth Revis {Goodreads}

Release Date: (US) January 2, 2012 / (AU) March 28, 2012

Read the excerpt!

Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi {Goodreads}
Release Date: (US) January 3, 2012 / (UK) February 7, 2012 / (AU) December 2011
Read the excerpt!

Unraveling Isobel by Eileen Cook {Goodreads}
Release Date: January 3, 2012
Read the excerpt!

Don't Breathe A Word by Holly Cupala {Goodreads}
Release Date: January 3, 2012
Read the excerpt!

Cinder by Marissa Meyer {Goodreads}
Release Date: (US) January 3, 2012 / (AU/UK) January 5, 2012
Read the excerpt!

The Fault in Our Stars by John Green {Goodreads}
Release Date: January 10, 2012
Read the excerpt!
Listen to John read the excerpt!

Ditched: A Love Story by Robin Mellom {Goodreads}
Release Date: January 10, 2012
Read the excerpt!

Never Eighteen by Megan Bostic {Goodreads}
Release Date: January 17, 2012
Read the excerpt! | 2

Tempest by Julie Cross {Goodreads}
Release Date: (US) January 17, 2012 (AU/UK) January 1, 2012
Read the excerpt!

Fracture by Megan Miranda {Goodreads}
Release Date: (US) January 17, 2012 (AU/UK) January 5, 2012
Read the excerpt! (Like the Facebook page for access!)

The Way We Fall by Megan Crewe {Goodreads}
Release Date: January 24, 2012
Read the excerpt!

Forbidden by Syrie James & Ryan M. James {Goodreads}
Release Date: January 24, 2012
Read the excerpt!

Disclaimer: I own NOTHING. All links are just that - links, public links. These were intended for access to the general public and thereby I am in no way exploiting or breaking any infringement policies.

Q: Which January 2012 release are you most looking forward to? Which previews have you wanting more?

My answer? All of the above. ;)

[Review + Giveaway] Happy Birthday To Me by Brian Rowe

2011-12-15T23:42:00.001-08:00

Title: Happy Birthday To Me {goodreads}

Authors: Brian Rowe

Publication (dd/mm/yy): 25/10/11

Publisher: CreateSpace

Source: For review (thanks to the author!)
Age: 15+ Sexual references, mild swearing?

Pages: 315

My Rating:

Satisfying read

Summary:

Seventeen-year-old Cameron Martin has a huge problem: he’s aging a whole year of his life with each passing day!

High school is hard enough; imagine rapidly aging from seventeen to seventy in a matter of weeks, with no logical explanation, and with prom, graduation, and the state championship basketball game on the horizon. That’s what happens to Cameron, a mischievous pretty boy who has never had to face a day looking anything but perfect.

All Cameron wants to do is go back to normal, but no one, not even the best doctors, can diagnose his condition. When he falls for a mysterious young woman, however, he realizes that the only hope for his survival might be with the one person who started his condition in the first place...

My thoughts:

I was initially intrigued when it was pitched to me, but I'm always just that bit more cautious with indie/self-published novels. The idea that someone could start aging a year of their life with each passing day is a fun concept, and Brian Rowe executed it well enough. An entertaining read all around, not without its moments of pure laugh-out-loud hilarity.

In Happy Birthday To Me, seventeen-year-old Cameron is the popular guy everyone wants to be or be with. He and his friends, exhilerated after a great basketball game, visit their favourite cafe/restaurant, where Cameron has a running joke: wherein everyone pretends it's his birthday and they receive birthday cake. It's just a harmless prank. Until it actually happens -- Cameron begins to age at a rapid rate, and no doctor can diagnose this hideous nightmare.

He's got the state championship basketball game, graduation and the prom! Unsatisfied with the prospect of living out the rest of his days as a research project at some lab, he takes it upon himself to finish high school, no matter what. Even if he becomes an 80 year old man on the outside and can barely walk.

I liked the outline of the book - every chapter denounces a new age that Cameron has stepped into. They really helped keep structure; it was also great to find out that something new had changed with him as he aged. That was without a doubt one of my favourite aspects of this book - imagining, for instance, a 50 year old man, creaking joints and all, playing on the high school basketball team.

Cameron himself, is, well, a pretty boy. Which equates to mean that I did not like him. Ha! He's cocky and selfish and stubborn and ignorant to everything that does not revolve around him. Tell me how that's supposed to be attractive, in any world? As he does age, we see some character progression, which was a bit cliche, but I did end up liking him more by the end of it all. He grows as a person, and sees the truth to his once-perfect life, which comes to light when he starts to age and is no longer the golden boy everyone loved.

Even worse than Cameron himself, is Charisma. His girlfriend. But then, all things considered, they're a match made in heaven then. Since the popular crowd are obviously so shallow, she ends up sneaking off with Cameron's best friend, who just doesn't get it. Everyone at the school annoyed me, and it just magnified everything I don't miss about high school (not that my grade had anyone NEARLY so shallow). The one character who had the potential to at least stay on my good side, was Liesl.

Liesl is harmless enough, and she ends up coming off okay with me. I didn't like her either, granted, but I didn't despise her and that's something. She remains such a mystery for the majority of the book, and maybe that's why I didn't dislike her. What did irk me is what she did, which I won't spoil here. Let's just say she does something really immature, which felt so out of character for her, if I ever knew her at all. Overall I thought she was a sweet character, whose emotions were sincere, true intentions.

The real standout for me is the writing. It's nowhere near polished. But. It's in the humor of it all. I enjoyed myself so much, despite the fact that I couldn't stand most of the characters. I was somehow able to dismiss that, because they did not matter to me. In the end it's about Cameron and his journey of self-discovery, and him finding out that his perfect life wasn't all that perfect.

Happy Birthday To Me happily sits with other good, fun paranormal YA novels on the market - if you're not too picky with characters, or cliche school cliques, you'll find much to like in the humorous antics, as you follow Cameron's fall from grace, day by day. Recommended for 15+ boys and fans of basketball . . . and birthdays.

Buy:

* cheapest Australian e-store price

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS

INTERNATIONAL READERS

Amazon | The Book Depository

All links from Booko, because I'm too lazy to search each individual store anymore.

I have received this review copy in return for an honest review.

Challenge: ---

~Giveaway~

Sorry guys. Aussie only!

1x winner to receive: Paranormal pack
Happy Birthday To Me by Brian Rowe
1 other paranormal YA book on my "giveaway" list (I'll email you the options)
Assorted paranormal YA swag, including Clockwork Angel notebook
Signed by Cassandra Clare, Clockwork Angel mini-poster
So what do you have to do to be in the draw?

Just comment and answer the question:
WHY is Cameron aging a year with every passing day?
Be as crazy as you want to be

You HAVE to include your email with your comment, or else your entry will not count.

Following is not required.
If you do follow, let me know under what GFC name you follow my blog for an extra entry.

Giveaway ends 31/12. Spread the word, if you want to! I won't mind. ;)

[Early Review] Wanderlove by Kirsten Hubbard

2011-12-14T15:00:00.000-08:00

Title: Wanderlove {goodreads}

Authors: Kirsten Hubbard

Publication (dd/mm/yyyy): 13/03/2012

Publisher: Random House (Delacorte Press)
RRP: $17.99

Source: Netgalley (Grab it while you can!)
Precautions: PG (15+) - Moderate swearing, mild romantic scenes, skinny dipping, drugs and drinking

Pages: 352

My Rating:

Summary:

It all begins with a stupid question:

Are you a Global Vagabond?

No, but 18-year-old Bria Sandoval wants to be. In a quest for independence, her neglected art, and no-strings-attached hookups, she signs up for a guided tour of Central America—the wrong one. Middle-aged tourists with fanny packs are hardly the key to self-rediscovery. When Bria meets Rowan, devoted backpacker and dive instructor, and his outspokenly humanitarian sister Starling, she seizes the chance to ditch her group and join them off the beaten path.

Bria's a good girl trying to go bad. Rowan's a bad boy trying to stay good. As they travel across a panorama of Mayan villages, remote Belizean islands, and hostels plagued with jungle beasties, they discover what they've got in common: both seek to leave behind the old versions of themselves. And the secret to escaping the past, Rowan’s found, is to keep moving forward.

But Bria comes to realize she can't run forever, no matter what Rowan says. If she ever wants the courage to fall for someone worthwhile, she has to start looking back.

Kirsten Hubbard lends her artistry into this ultimate backpacker novel, weaving her drawings into the text. Her career as a travel writer and her experiences as a real-life vagabond backpacking Central America are deeply seeded in this inspiring story.

My thoughts:

For the record, I NEVER post such early reviews, but not to worry, I'll re-link to this review, along with other Wanderlove-related stuff, I'm sure, 1 month before the release date, and then as it releases and around it thereafter. Wanderlove in a word: refreshing.

My Synopsis:

WANDERLOVE starts off with ex-artgirl Bria, who is currently in her break between high school and university/college, recently broke up with her intense artsy boyfriend Toby, and now ready to be someone different. When her two best friends bail on their trip, she takes it upon herself to screw it all and go anyway. But, the travel package that drew her to Central America turns out to be a dud - her group consists of only old or dull people, which means absolutely no hookups.

Sick of the routine and lack of adventure, Bria is taken under the wings of backpackers Starling and Rowan. Wanting more than anything to fit in with the backpacker lifestyle, she loses herself along the way. Because of the theft of her handbag, along with her camera, the only way she'll be able to capture the rugged beauty of her surroundings is if she picks up her pencil and starts to draw again. Rowan and Starling take her to places far off the beaten track, and she finds herself - the art school girl she's always wanted to be - along the way, and maybe, she thinks, it's not too late to return to how she was before Toby.

Okay, guys, I just read this amazing book. It's called WANDERLOVE, and if you're into travel - heck, even if you're not into travel - this is THE 2012 YA book for you. Aside from the pure escapism that this book provides so easily, Hubbard has created characters that stick, with real problems that may not always be relatable, but will encourage the reader's empathy all the same.

It's so clear to see how much Hubbard loves to travel, and that she didn't just research Central America - she LIVED Central America. I can just imagine the sparks that flew when she wrote this book, so immersed in her love for backpacking and getting lost in a whole new world; which probably attributed to why I enjoyed this ten million times more than I did LIKE MANDARIN (Hubbard's debut). I could FEEL not only Bria, the main character, but also the author, because of the depth of detail and the drawings - oh, guys, the DRAWINGS . . . . Easily one of the most beautiful books I've read all year.

"The water looks cool and blue, like an electric-raspberry popsicle. I want in." (Bria, p. 149)

At the beginning of the book, Bria is naive and still clinging onto the past. She's a bit snappy and immature, but she's been through a lot. We just don't know much about her problems. Along the way, as she opens up, both in her thoughts and out loud, we are aware of the reasons why she has a lack of trust in people. By the end, she's a completely different person - she braves the unknown, in more ways than one! Some of her choices weren't the smartest, but I did like Bria a lot, and I could relate to her. I also LOVE that Bria is 18 - there needs to be more YA protagonists around the 18-23 bracket!

Starling and Rowan, and the other backpackers and people we meet along the way, FELT. LIKE. REAL. PEOPLE. And I bet anything that Hubbard actually did base some of these characters on people she'd met during her travels. Really though, I love when characters stop feeling like characters, and more like people who you could believe exist. It also helps that the drawings are spot on with how I imagined them in my head.

"It's built over the water, which I can hear sloshing beneath my feet." (Bria, p. 200); source

The problems that Bria faces, revolves around art - something that she loved more than anything, but was turned into something ugly because of those around her. Her future, her parents, her relationship with Toby. They were all addressed because of what happened to her art. Let me just say I adore main protagonists who actually have passions and dreams, and who aren't just living it out for their dream guy, or a better life.

There IS a relationship that sparks during Bria's journey. Really, it would've felt just as sweet if it remained a friendship, but the extra oomph that the relationship provided really kicked up the dramatic side of things. Bria deals with the confusion that comes with not knowing whether it's serious or not, and what's going to happen if she lets herself fall for the backpacker guy she ran into at the airport. At first I didn't like Rowan that much, because of his easy confidence and way of speech. He came off as a bit cocky and high-and-mighty. But we also get to know him along the way; I warmed up to him quickly. I enjoyed the gradual progression as the two move from walking around eggshells, to *groan* cracking those eggshells and dancing around.

"Or we could go to the Tikal ruins, just over the border in Guatemala. You can stay at a budget hotel in the park, then wake up before dawn and climb to the top of the highest temple to watch the sun rise over the jungle. You'll swear you can see the whole wide world." (Rowan, p. 226)

Also, the cover and title. Both meaningful and only help to escalate the sophistication and intensity that this book delivers so effortlessly.

In short...

WANDERLOVE is beautiful. WANDERLOVE is a budget vacation/adventure you will never want to forget. If you are only going to read one 2012 YA contemporary release, make it this one. Beautifully rendered and picturesque, Hubbard's writing and drawings and characters will have you turning page after page, until you're done and you'll want to read it all over again. This book feels like a splash of cold water on a blazing hot day; a warm hug when you're cold.

(Also, this was one of my favourite reviews to write - it's been ages since I've felt so comfortable just blurting it all out there, and the words just came so easily. Huh, I just broke my review writing slump.)

Quotes:

Bria, on guys:

""Some of my old sketchbooks--the ones I stashed under my bed right around the time art school acceptance letters arrived--held drawings of Bria's Dream Guy. He wore tiny black glasses and Converse shoes, with that legendary paintbrush tucked behind his ear. Then there was his archnemesis, the Bad Guy. In a series of two-dimensional encounters, Bria's Dream Guy rescued her from the Bad Guy--via surfboard, hang glider, and white stallion--paintbrush moonlighting as a sword.
Back then, I thought Mother Nature split the good guys from the bad with a thick black line.
But the thing is, in real life, they're often the same guy. (p. 47)

Rowan, on goodbyes:

""They're a drag. I mean, seriously--they just drag out painful moments."
    I shrug, still feeling all sorts of unpleasant. "I suppose."
    "Think about it. Think about your last big goodbye. Both people are searching for the right thing to say, and both are uncomfortable because there is no right thing to say. Best to just leave and be done with it. Shut the book as quickly as possible."
    I try not to think of how long I dragged out my breakup with Toby. Isn't that what a breakup is? A painfully protracted goodbye? At least, it was in my case. "You make it sound easy."
    "It's worked for me so far." (pp. 106-107)

Buy:

* cheapest Australian e-store price

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS

INTERNATIONAL READERS

Amazon | The Book Depository

All links from Booko, because I'm too lazy to search each individual store anymore.

Extras:

I don't normally include an extras section, but there's just so much extra about the book!

First off, here's the full cover: CLICK HERE!

Wanderlove bookmarks: couple your beautiful pre-order (presumptuous? me?) of this gem with a bookmark!

If you're a blogger . . . Kirsten will send you bookmarks - no matter where you are!

If you're a reader . . . I'll be hosting a giveaway, as soon as I receive the bookmarks and know how many I can give out. I also have Like Mandarin bookmarks, so of course it will be a Kirsten Hubbard crazy swag giveaway. It will be international. :) Also, Kirsten will be holding personal giveways in future on her blog, so keep an eye out!

Kirsten Hubbard's awesomeness ~ just a couple snippets; you can raid her blog if you want more. ;)

Kirsten freaks out about ARC, and shares some of her illustrations in WANDERLOVE

Kirsten answers six questions and shares some more illustrations from WANDERLOVE

Kirsten's WANDERLOVE playlist, including her third book

Other WANDERLOVE reviews

Nice Girls Read Books: 5 stars {link}

Princess Bookie: 5 stars {link}

Holes in My Brain: 4.8 stars {link}

Inkcrush: 4 stars overall {link}

Writing from the Tub: 15/20, B {link}

Phoebe North: Recommended {link}

Check out my review of Like Mandarin, Kirsten's debut novel!

I have received this review copy in return for an honest review.

Challenge: ---

* any images I didn't include the source for, were found using Google images. ;) I own none of them.

[Review] Like Mandarin by Kirsten Hubbard

2011-12-13T15:00:00.000-08:00

Title: Like Mandarin {goodreads}

Authors: Kirsten Hubbard

Publication (dd/mm/yyyy): 08/03/2011

Publisher: Random House (Delacorte Press)
RRP: $17.99

Source: Birthday gift

Precautions: PG (15+) - Moderate swearing, sexual scenes, drugs and drinking

Pages: 320

My Rating:

Summary:

     It's hard to find beauty in the badlands of Washokey, Wyoming. Fourteen-year-old Grace Carpenter sure knows there's nothing beautiful about her mother's pageant obsessions, or about the cowboy dances or pickup trucks adored by her small-town classmates. True beauty is wild-girl Mandarin Ramey: seventeen, shameless and utterly carefree. Studious and self-conscious Grace would give anything to be like Mandarin.
     When these girls, so utterly different from one another, are united for a school project, they embark on an unlikely, explosive friendship, packed with nights spent skinny-dipping in the canal, liberating the town's animal-head trophies, and searching for someplace magic. When Mandarin suggests that they make a pact to run away, Grace plays along with the idea on a whim. Maybe it's the wildwinds that plague their badlands town that make her say yes.
     After a while, however, Grace has second thoughts. It turns out that Mandarin's unique beauty hides a girl who's troubled--even dangerous. And no matter how hard Grace fights to keep their friendship alive, even the strongest relationships can't withstand betrayal.
     Kirsten Hubbard's bold novel will resonate with anyone who has ever yearned to escape--from home, from others, or from herself.

My thoughts:

My Synopsis:

Grace has always wanted to be like Mandarin. Cool, effortlessly seductive and unafraid. Grace hides away in books and geometry and has done so since her fallout with her pageant-obsessed mother. But when she forms an unlikely bond with Mandarin - the Mandarin Ramey - she realises that what lies underneath all of that beauty is a broken home, a broken girl.

As Grace falls more and more into Mandarin's world, she realises there are still many things that separate them. Like, the fact that Mandarin wants nothing more than to leave the small-town immediately, that the prospect of getting away is dead serious to her. Or what about her promiscuity? Betrayals and disappointments lead the girls to a heartfelt conclusion that will shake readers to their very core.

A provocative and atmospheric story that captured my heart and brought me to the very essence of county life where nothing seems to change and the air reeks of oppression.

I was EXTREMELY excited to read this book right from the moment I heard about it. It just took me so long to actually get around to it.

The pages within this book are magical. They succeeded in transporting me to a whole new world - the little hick town of Washokey, Wyoming. The badlands, the jackalopes and jackrabbits and hunting and beauty pageants and fields of untamed land, the lack of ocean, the cowboy hats and boots, the tailgate parties and trucks and wood and cider and just the closeness of such a community. The place really enveloped me and I was enchanted by it all.

Jackalopes & animal-head trophies

Most of the residents love it there, or at least they love the familiarity of the place they'd grown up in. Mandarin wants nothing more than to get out of the place. Grace and Mandarin do lots of wild things together - such as running outside school to dance in the cottonwood whirlwind, and swimming in the local muck-covered lake at midnight.

"We spun like children in a school yard game, kicking up billows of glistening cotton, drinking in the crazy-making wildwinds with each gasp. They tore strands of hair from my braid, whipping my face. I found I was blinking back tears--from the winds or what, I didn't know. At that moment, I would have followed her anywhere." (Grace, p. 182)

Grace, I believe, is quite a relatable character. She has a quiet energy that buzzes around in her mind. She's never had the self-confidence and strength that she believes Mandarin has, always conscious of what others would think of her if she were to step out of line. For most of her life, she's admired and been borderline-obssessed with Mandarin. It's a bit creepy, to be honest, the extent to which she watches Mandarin and how much she knows about her. At least from sight. However, it's not far-fetched, considering how different Mandarin is, that Grace has such a fascination with her. I didn't particularly like Grace, but that didn't stop me for feeling for her.

Mandarin is such a complex character. I was fascinated by her, as Grace was. As their friendship deepens, so does the exploration of truth about Mandarin's personal affairs. We learn how vulnerable she is, and why she hasn't left yet, and why she wants to finish high school. Why she takes a liking to Grace. Their relationship is so slippery, but memorable.

Source: Kirsten Hubbard

If you're looking for sweep-you-of-your-feet romance, look elsewhere. This book is about friendship and growing up and moving on and understanding and families. It can be speculated that Grace and Mandarin shared some electricity, but Kirsten Hubbard doesn't even know herself, so it's open for discussion. ;) There are definitely some suggestive moments, but the bond that the girls share is anything but ordinary. There are little hints of romance, but due to Grace's transformations she never lets this guy in, decent as he may be. I like to think that in the future she does start to pay more attention to him and think of him as more than a classmate.

The writing in this book is flawless. Hubbard writes with a fluid ease that allowed me to get sucked into the plot quite easily. Despite the slowness of it all. If you're looking for ACTION, you might get bored. If you're a fan of gritty contemporary reads, I implore you to give this one a go. This is definitely not a story I will be forgetting anytime soon, especially that bittersweet ending.

Buy:

* cheapest Australian e-store price

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS

INTERNATIONAL READERS

Amazon | The Book Depository

Grab a paperback copy ~ listings here

All links from Booko, because I'm too lazy to search each individual store anymore.

Extras:

From now on, I hope to include extras with each review, so that YOU know all you can before you decide to read the books or not.

Like Mandarin bookmarks: I'll be hosting a giveaway, as soon as I receive Wanderlove bookmarks and know how many I can give out. It will be a Kirsten Hubbard crazy swag giveaway! It will be international. :)

Kirsten Hubbard vlogs ~ check it out at her Youtube channel!

Kirsten Hubbard's awesomeness ~ just a couple snippets; you can raid her blog if you want more. ;)

Playlists for both of her books (including her future books)
Kirsten on YA cursing

Kirsten's LIKE MANDARIN inspirations:

The badlands
Jackalopes
The Tombs
Saloons
The Cottonwoods (I actually quoted this one in the review!)
The Big Horn River
Pageants
The Canal

Other LIKE MANDARIN reviews

Book Swarm: 99/100, A {link}

A Good Addiction: 5 stars {link}

Holes in My Brain: 9/10 {link}

Phoebe North: Recommended {link}
Carolina Valdez Miller: "breathtakingly timeless" {link}
Steph Su Reads: "a good debut novel" {link}

Check out my review of Wanderlove, Kirsten's sophomore novel, tomorrow!

~~I have received this review copy in return for an honest review.~~

Challenge: 2011 YA Debut Challenge

* any images I didn't include the source for, were found using Google images. ;) I own none of them.

When I was younger I wanted to be like Mulan. I'm not talking joining the war or anything here, but ever since I first saw the Disney movie she'd been my favourite among the princesses. I just wanted to be strong and brave and athletic and intelligent and quick on my feet.

YA equivalent heroines: Tris (Divergent), Katsa (Graceling), Emmajin (Daughter of Xanadu), Ellie Linton (Tomorrow series), Gaia Stone (Birthmarked), Juliette (Shatter Me)

Your turn! Who would you have given anything to be like?

In My Mailbox (59-60): My Desk Collapsed...

2011-12-06T04:54:00.000-08:00

So that I could have an entirely new angle for IMM pictures! In a heated panic, I threw all my books (that were on the bookshelf that sits on my table) on the floor. Which leaves my bookshelves empty. A truly horrifying sight, if I do say so myself.

If you'd only heard the shriek I made when the desk came tumbling down... I'm way too scared to tell my parents right now. Because then they'll just look at me sternly and declare that I own too many books. Which means no new books for Christmas! ><

Sorry - this turned into a TUESDAY IMM. I couldn't find my cable for a minute there...

* All release dates go in the format (dd/mm/yy)

* Any books I have already read will have a sort of mini-review and the rating I have given it up now until written.

* = Up for swap

For review

Girl, Missing by Sophie McKenzie (Jan 2012, Simon & Schuster, Just Arrived)
Sister, Missing by Sophie McKenzie (Jan 2012, Simon & Schuster, Just Arrived)
Crave by Melissa Darnell (November 2011, Harlequin Teen, Just Arrived)
Drink, Slay, Love by Sarah Beth Durst (November 2011, Allen & Unwin, Requested)

Bought

The Dead of Night (#2, Tomorrow series) by John Marsden

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

This is over TWO weeks. It probably doesn't look like much, but really? I'm glad that I didn't receive too many new books, since I really want to catch up and lighten the load. This minimal layout is only temporary - I'll be using this if I don't receive too many books.

Q: What's on your Christmas wishlist?

I've already sent my wishlist to my mum - I've got a good mix of contemp/dystopian books, as well as some other things, on the list. The books: Psych Major Syndrome, God is in the Pancakes, The Education of Hailey Kendrick, Blood Red Road, Under the Never Sky.

Happy Reading! Comment with your IMM links.

Since last IMM...

(<-- most current)

Currently Reading:
Touch of Power by Maria V. Snyder (ARC)
Wanderlove by Kirsten Hubbard (e-Galley)

Read:
Like Mandarin by Kirsten Hubbard
Where I Belong by Gwendolyn Heasley
Prized (#2, Birthmarked) by Caragh O'Brien
Dancergirl by Carol M. Tanzman
Strange Angels by Lili St. Crow
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone by J.K. Rowling (Re-read)
Legend by Marie Lu
Happy Birthday To Me by Brian Rowe

Reviews: (links to my blog reviews)
Legend by Marie Lu
Amplified by Tara Kelly

Reviews pending: Shatter Me, Strange Angels, Prized, Where I Belong, Like Mandarin, Dancergirl, Harry Potter Part 1 (Books 1 and 2), Happy Birthday to You

[Review] Legend by Marie Lu

2011-11-28T15:00:00.001-08:00

Title: Legend {goodreads}

Authors: Marie Lu

Publication (dd/mm/yy): 28/11/11

Publisher: Penguin - Razorbill
RRP: AU$19.95

Source: For review (thanks to publishers!)
Age: 14+ Moderate violence and guns

Pages: 301 (proof copy)

My Rating:

Summary:

The United States is gone, along with its flooded coasts. North America's two warring nations, the western Republic and the eastern Colonies, have reached a breaking point. In the midst of this broken continent and dark new world are two teenagers who will go down in history....

Born into the slums of Los Angeles, fifteen-year old Day is the country's most wanted criminal. A mysterious boy with no recorded image or fingerprints. A boy who should no longer exist. A boy who watches over his family until one evening, when the plague patrols mark his family's door with an X--the sign of plague infection. A death sentence for any family too poor to afford the antidote. Desperate, Day has no choice; he must steal it.

Born to an elite family in Los Angeles' wealthy Ruby sector, fifteen-year old June is the Republic's most promising prodigy. A superintelligent girl destined for great things in the country's highest military circles. Obedient, passionate, and committed to her country--until the day her brother Metias is murdered while on patrol during a break-in at the plague hospital.

Only one person could be responsible.

Day.

And now it's June's mission to hunt him down.

The truth they'll uncover will become legend.

My thoughts:

With the latest development of the dystopian genre (in that, the genre is quickly trending), you'd think it would get more difficult for new books to impress and stand out in the genre. Marie Lu's debut novel LEGEND holds a steady balance between striking action and spirited characters that will surely capture the mind and heart of readers. The moment I reached the end and put the book down, I really did just throw my hands over eyes, overwhelmed by it all. If it had not been 2 am I probably would have vouched for a re-read. Yeah. It was THAT good.

My Synopsis
The general plot of this book is . . . Day is one of the Republic's biggest threats - not only does he wreak havoc wherever he goes, but his fingerprints are unidentifiable, which only serves to frustrate them more. When his family is in trouble, marked by a big red 'X' on their front door, he breaks into the hospital in a rush. Not without a casualty or two. June's brother is killed in the freak accident. Being a child prodigy, having scored a perfect score on her Trials, she takes it upon herself to hunt Day down. No matter what. But there are things the Republic isn't telling her. Things that will change everything she's ever believed in.

The Plot
LEGEND is pitched as a loose retelling of Les Miserables. I can't vouch for that comparison personally, but the general plot really drew me in. I really couldn't wait to read this book, and it really does not disappoint. At first there doesn't seem to be anything too special about the plot that would stand out among other dystopian novels, but there are so many twists that really surprised me.

Characters and relationships
I love Day and June. Day is such an endearing character, he's brashfully honest, and his story is both a mystery and draws the reader in. His family means everything to him, and although he doesn't get to see them often, not one day goes by when he doesn't miss them. He's such an enigma to the Republic, and since we get to hear his voice in the book, we get to know what kind of person he is and how he gets by. His "sidekick", Tess, is such a sweetheart. She's level-headed and despite her young age she knows how to hold her own. June, on the other hand, lives a privileged life and is highly regarded in the community for her outstanding Trials score. It took much longer for me to warm up to her, but as her circumstances change, she begins to show a softer, more human side of her. I love that side of her.

What is better than the characters themselves, is the relationship they each share with each other. Day and June, and Day and Tess, in particular. I'm not going to go into details, since it's better if you read it yourself. ;) Rest assured, their intertwined stories are sweet and help balance out the action-heavy parts of the book. I do have to say, though . . . while there is a romance between Day and June, I thought it would have been sweeter if they were just friends. I want to find more books where a boy and a girl become just really close friends, and I think this book could have benefited from that.

There are more characters in LEGEND, don't you worry! However, pretty much all other characters annoyed me. And they're meant to annoy you, or creep you out, or just disgust you. Mostly, though, this book really just magnifies how much societal ruling can completely brainwash (for lack of a better word) someone so that they will never oppose their leaders' orders, or think to validify the ethical side of their actions. Thomas is one such character in which this message very clearly resonates. He, without question, will gun down an innocent man, if his boss commands him to.

And don't even get me started on a rant about him. His repulsive behaviour doesn't even end there.

Writing
Along with great and interesting characters, Lu writes with such fluent ease in her debut novel. LEGEND is written in two person perspective, with - you guessed it - Day and June. What Lu does differently to others who attempt multi-perspective narratives - and succeeded in - is that there isn't a break in the action. The change in perspective doesn't distract the reader. The transitions are seamless. The voices are distinct and even without differential font-types or font-colours between narrative perspectives, it would be very clear who is telling the story. This device also helps to let the reader know each main character on a much more intimate level.

The following is a list of more positives for Marie Lu's debut novel:

The secrets and revelations! I really thought I knew exactly what was going on, but there were a few twists along the way that really took me by surprise. If you've read a couple dystopian novels, you should know that surprises and twists is what sets apart a good dystopian from a GREAT dystopian (along with a developed world - characters, emotions, writing . . . those are a given)
The world!! Actually pretty well developed, and we do get a sense of how the new LA operates. I kind of wish there was a map, just because I love maps in books. Ha! See, I personally don't know much about the Republics and the Colonies, and I would have personally loved a little introductory information. That might be asking too much though.
The covers. I love both of them. I might get both, we'll have to see. I also like the detailings of the insignia on the US cover. I really like when cover designs include something deeply specific to that given book.
Families are pretty big. While I never quite got to really KNOW Day's family members personally (they always felt distant), the enormity of Day's passion in protecting them rings true. And I just love that he cares so deeply for them. Same goes for June with her brother. Her strong bond with him is definitely something that had me reaching for the tissue box.

Recommended for any dystopian fan, LEGEND is a fast-paced and heart-racing adventure that critically explores the cracks in a futuristic Los Angeles society. With characters that come to life, Marie Lu's debut novel sets the bar high for future dystopian YA novels.

Quotes:

First lines:

"My mother thinks I'm dead.
     Obviously I'm not dead, but it's safer for her to think so.
     At least twice a month, I see my Wanted poster flashed on the JumboTrons scattered throughout downtown Los Angeles. It looks out of place up there. Most of the pictures on the screens are of happy things: smiling children standing under a bright blue sky, tourists posing before the Golden Gate Ruins, Republic commercials in neon colors. There's also anti-Colonies propaganda. "The Colonies want our land," the ads declare. "They want what they don't have. Don't let them conquer your homes! Support the cause!"
     Then there's my criminal report. It lights up the JumboTrons in all its multicolored glory:
     WANTED BY THE REPUBLIC
     FILE NO: 462178-3233   "DAY"
    --------------------------------------
     WANTED FOR ASSAULT , ARSON, THEFT,
     DESTRUCTION OF MILITARY PROPERTY,
     AND HINDERING THE WAR EFFORT
     200,000 REPUBLIC NOTES FOR
     INFORMATION LEADING TO ARREST

Favourite Quote:

""You should have taken me with you," I whisper to him. Then I lean my head against his and begin to cry. In my mind, I make a silent promise to my brother's killer.
I will hunt you down. I will scour the streets of Los Angeles for you. Search every street in the Republic if I have to. I will trick you and deceive you, lie, cheat and steal to find you, tempt you out of your hiding place, and chase you until you have nowhere else to run. I make you this promise: your life is mine. (p. 45)

Buy:

* cheapest Australian e-store price

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS

INTERNATIONAL READERS

Amazon | The Book Depository

All links from Booko, because I'm too lazy to search each individual store anymore.

I have received this review copy in return for an honest review.

Challenge: 2011 Debut Author Challenge

[Review] Amplified by Tara Kelly

2011-11-23T15:00:00.000-08:00

Title: Amplified {goodreads}

Authors: Tara Kelly

Publication (dd/mm/yy): 25/10/11

Publisher: Henry Holt & Company
RRP: US$16.95

Source: Bought
Age: 15+ Sexual references and alcohol.

Pages: 290

My Rating:

Summary:

When privileged 17-year-old Jasmine gets kicked out of her house, she takes what is left of her savings and flees to Santa Cruz to pursue her dream of becoming a musician. Jasmine finds the ideal room in an oceanfront house, but she needs to convince the three guys living there that she's the perfect roommate and lead guitarist for their band, C-Side. Too bad she has major stage fright and the cute bassist doesn't think a spoiled girl from over the hill can hack it. . .

In this fresh new novel by critically acclaimed author Tara Kelly, Jasmine finds out what happens when her life gets Amplified.

My thoughts:

One word: Badass!

Tara Kelly strikes again! I loved this as much as I loved 'Harmonic Feedback', just in different ways. We've heard the story before: Teen gets kicked out of home because they're a disappointment to their parent/s. Teen goes off to fulfill their dream, whatever that may be. What really appealed to me though, was the musical aspects and the band and what the band brings to Jasmine, the protagonist.

'Amplified' is super atmospheric; Kelly really describes music perfectly. When I first started reading books with music in them, I was concerned that I wouldn't be able to 'hear the music', but so far I haven't had such a problem. It would be really cool if some of C-Side's tracks got recorded somehow, but that's probably wishful thinking. There are a few terms that, should you not be so musically inclined, you might need to look up. A little research on industrial rock also wouldn't hurt. I'll admit I'd never actually heard of the sub-genre before, but that's exactly what I love about reading. New stuff.

The band members of C-Side are eccentric and they each have their own distinct personalities that just magically drew me to them. I adored Felix's wicked fashion sense, Bryn's biting wit, Sean's quiet allure and Veta's spunk and sense of pride. I found myself chuckling and laughing way too much. They just have way too much fun together and their dialogue and actions with each other are so natural that I was able to believe they were real people.

What I most loved about AMPLIFIED, however, is the journey that Jasmine takes. She goes through so much development and has to endure quite a few obstacles in order to actually get where she does at the end. She suffers from intense stage fright, which is a big deal when she's going to be filling in for one of the hottest lead guitarists in the local industrial rock scene. What shines through with her is her innate ability to rock out and make things work, make them different and innovative. Like I said before, I could actually HEAR what was playing.

There is a romance, and one that I enjoyed a lot. The guy and Jasmine just get off to a really bad start, and first impressions make quite the impression. But over time they just start warming to each other and before we all know it, they're friends and leaning into something more. They had great chemistry; they're safely one of my top 5 fave couples for this year. Realistic - no insta-love going on ANYWHERE in here.

AMPLIFIED is fired-up and passionate, and is sure to catch interest of musically inclined readers. Kelly's sophomore release plays a familiar tune to her debut, but is a much lighter read - you might even chuckle a couple times. Jasmine is a great heroine whose endurance and strength of will persist time and time again.

Quotes:

""Are you waiting for the bathroom? 'Cause it looks open."
"I need to talk to Sean. I'm just waiting for a good time . . ."
Bryn walks past me and slammed his fist into Sean's door. "Hey!" The music inside cut off.
Sean answered, crinkling his brow at Bryn. He was already dressed for work--blue shirt with the sleeves rolled up, cargo pants, and boots. "What?"
"Jasmine said she's waiting for a good time. Does now work for you?" Bryn slapped Sean in the chest and sauntered off, chuckling his way down the stairs.
Sean's eyes widened at me, his lips parting. This was not the opening I had in mind. (pp. 118-119)

Buy:

* cheapest Australian e-store price

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS

INTERNATIONAL READERS

Amazon | The Book Depository

All links from Booko, because I'm too lazy to search each individual store anymore.

~~I have received this review copy in return for an honest review.~~

Challenge: ---

In My Mailbox (51-58): Catch up time!!

2011-11-19T15:00:00.000-08:00

In case you missed it, I had another IMM, for the review copies I'd received lately. [click here] The sequels just keep on pouring in! Now that I've finished university for the year, I can hopefully have a 3 day (at least) book turnover! Hope the holidays serve you well as well. ;)

Ahem.

Continue! :D

I'm kind of sorry for the cruddy photo.

* All release dates go in the format (dd/mm/yy)

* Any books I have already read will have a sort of mini-review and the rating I have given it up now until written.

* = Up for swap

For Review:

Thanks to everyone for the review copies!

Going Underground by Susan Vaught
(01/12/11, 325 pp., RRP $24.99 - requested)
Male perspective YA is pretty tops, if I do say so myself. I'm really intrigued with this teenage boy whose history is so bent up that the only job he can score is one where he's digging graves. Dead zones.

Tiger's Voyage (Tiger, #3) by Colleen Houck
(08/11/11, 542 pp., RRP $16.99 - unsolicited)
So. This is the third book in the series, and I have been sent each previous volume in the series. Still haven't read even the first book, though I've wanted to since I first got it. It looks good; I think the main reason I've been holding back is the constant comparisons with Twilight. No, no. I'll start this series soon! Thanks for sending me the next book, Hachette-Hodder!

Froi of the Exiles (Lumatere Chronicles, #2) by Melina Marchetta

(03/10/11, 590 pp., RRP $24.95 - unsolicited)
I have not read Finnikin of the Rock just yet. I really want to, though I don't see me grabbing a copy of it anytime soon (since it's pretty expensive). I'd give it away, but it's too heavy for me to send out considering the lack of income I am receiving. Thanks for sending this along, Penguin, though I can't do much with it at the moment...

If someone in SYDNEY wants to borrow this, maybe we can work out a meet-up?

Crossed (Matched, #2) by Ally Condie

(31/10/11, 370 pp., RRP $19.95 - unsolicited)
I read Matched last year and though I wasn't completely blown away, I really do want to know what happens next. Thanks for sending this along, lovely people at Penguin! :D And I have to say I love the colour combination of this book!

Cinder by Marissa Meyer

(03/01/12, 370 pp., RRP $16.95 - unsolicited)
I cannot wait to read this! How beautiful is the cover? That, and the premise just sounds completely original despite the fact that it is a spin-off/retelling of the classic Cinderella tale. Set in the far future. And Cinderella is a cyborg and a gifted mechanic. I've heard nothing but praise, to top it all off! Thanks for the proof copy!!

Vampire Academy: The Ultimate Guide by Michelle Rowen with Richelle Mead

(28/11/11, 310 pp., RRP $12.95 - unsolicited)
I really wish that I didn't get so many unsolicited review copies, since many of them I just can't read. I'll be giving this away, in a set (does 'with Bloodlines' sound good to anyone?), in the near future.

Inheritance (Eragon #4) by Christopher Paolini
(09/11/11, 860 pp., RRP $29.95 - unsolicited)
I've never been interested in this series, to be honest. Much of that disinterent is quite possibly due to the ridiculous length of each instalment to the series! This book alone is 800+ pages! This book is too heavy for me to ship it (giveaway) so I'll be giving this particular copy to my brother. But I'll be having an Eragon-something giveaway in the future! I don't know...should I feel guilty about an unsolicited review copy? :S Thanks to Random House anyway.

See the rest of my review copies since my last IMM here.

Bought:

Amplified by Tara Kelly

Looooooved it! It was such a quick read, and I say if you're a music fan, GO FOR IT. (review to come late-November)

Tomorrow, When the War Began (#1) by John Marsden {Review}
This book and its film adaptation really go well together. I thoroughly enjoyed both of them, and in fact I just ordered the second book (The Dead of Night) so it's on its way! ;)

The Poison Diaries: Nightshade (#2) by Maryrose Wood
The Poison Diaries was a 2010 read that surprised me...because the book founds its way to my home TWICE! The duplicate copy is still up for swap, and I'd definitely recommend it for anyone looking for a fantasy book that is unlike anything else they've ever read. I can't wait to get into this book and continue Jessamine's story with Weed and her father, and of course the garden.

Virtuosity by Jessica Martinez
I have yet to read anything negative about this book. I can already tell you I'm going to love this book. And the cover is simply gorgeous, and really matches the tone that Martinez starts the book off with in the prologue (if you've read it you know what I mean).

Betrayals (#2) by Lili St. Crow
If any of you actually check my 'currently reading' section on the sidebar...I'm currently FINALLY reading the Strange Angels series! And it's all because I've finally got all 5 books. Thanks to those who graciously traded with me, or even sent me a copy for free [Braiden]!

Frost (#2) by Wendy Delsol
Stork, the first book, was such an atmospheric and original book that I can't wait to delve into the pages of its sequel.

Won:

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin

This was #1 on my wishlist, and it was just the best timing because I won a Book Depository choose your own book giveaway (Thanks Cari!). I know I need to time my reading of this book just right. Because if I read it too late I might not be able to get to sleep. Or so I hear from fellow readers. At this point in time, though, I can say, "What a prologue!"

Withering Tights by Louise Rennison
Looks like fun! I love retellings, and this book will be one of the most fun kind. Thanks Arielle!

Swapped:

---

Q: What are you currently reading?

I love being nosey, so this is just a great question. Answer away!! :D

Happy Reading! Comment with your IMM links!

~~~

Since last IMM...

(<-- most current)

Currently Reading:
Happy Birthday to Me by Brian Rowe
Legend by Marie Lu
Strange Angels by Lili St. Crow
dancergirl by Carol M. Tanzman

Read:
Audition by Stasia Ward Kehoe
Amplified by Tara Kelly
Tomorrow, When the War Began by John Marsden
Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi
Liesl & Po by Lauren Oliver
Brimstone by Alan Skinner

Reviews: (links to my blog reviews)
Audition by Stasia Ward Kehoe
Tomorrow, When the War Began by John Marsden
Liesl & Po by Lauren Oliver
Brimstone by Alan Skinner
Saving June by Hannah Harrington
Beautiful Days (#2) by Anna Godbersen

Reviews pending: Shatter Me, Amplified

[Review] Audition by Stasia Ward Kehoe

2011-11-18T15:00:00.000-08:00

Title: Audition {goodreads}

Authors: Stasia Ward Kehoe

Publication (dd/mm/yy): 31/10/11

Publisher: Penguin Australia
RRP: $19.95

Source: For review (thanks Penguin!)
Age: 15+ Sexual content, but otherwise clean.

Pages: 450 [verse novel]

My Rating:

Summary:

Once you've been chosen,
what step can you take...?

Seventeen-year-old Sara's dream of becoming a star ballerina is challenged when she falls for Remington, an older choreographer. Instead of success onstage, she becomes Rem's muse, which is a future she never considered--and one that threatens to break her heart.

My thoughts:

I was so excited to read AUDITION! I jump to the chance to read any dancing YA novel. I admit, I was worried that my expectations wouldn't be met, but for the most part I was quite pleased with what I found.

This cover is also beautiful as anything, and I can definitely picture both models as Sara and Rem. The pose is intimate, and pretty dead-on. The cover could almost be a bit busy - if the quote wasn't blurred in like it is. The title & quote fonts are nice, and the title itself is simple yet speaks volumes, especially since Sara alludes to auditions a couple times throughout the novel.

My Synopsis

AUDITION is the story of a budding ballerina [Sara] from the country who gets swept away into the world of the Jersey Ballet. Not only is she far away from home, from her best friend Bess and her family. She's living with her Spanish dancing instructor, an older man [Remington] is using her as a muse, she's stuck with younger girls in her class due to her country-bumpkin-ness. The girls at her new high school are pretentious and rich and look down at Sara's humble upbringing, and dreams of dancing in the future.

As Sara climbs up her ballet class ladder and develops from hunter green leotard to grey, Snowflake to Aurora, so too does her poisonous relationship with Remington.

I have to say, I LOVE the writing of this book! It's poetic and lyrical and just so easy to read. My favourite quotes are actually the ones that are on the front and back covers. Especially the front. I actually find it fitting that this book was written in verse, since the sequences and choice of words and rhythms and moves . . . it's like a different kind of dance. The writing is equal parts dancing, equal parts romance, equal parts anguish and inner-turmoil and self-discovery.

Sara is just your average girl. She gets pretty average grades, has a couple good friends back home, deals with trying to fit in with the rich and glamorous at Upton Academy, and catch up to the talented and esteemed prima ballerinas (especially Lisette) at the Jersey Ballet. She's always wanted to be a prima ballerina, but she has doubts. I liked that she doesn't just magically become amazing. There's a progression towards her improvement.

And then there's Remington. I have conflicted feelings about him and his behaviour through the course of the book. First off, Sara and him get intimate preeeeetty quickly. At the beginning, it's all really sweet, but slowly the cracks let out and we see Rem's true colours, and his true intentions. I actually love that their relationship seemed realistic, and I have no doubt that such a one exists somewhere. Their relationship is dysfunctional, and it's not all sunshine and rainbows. Sara needed this though, to finally realise what's important to her and why she got into ballet. She grows and begins to understand herself after being with Rem, and the revelations and in-betweens are what would push me to re-read this.

There isn't too much room to develop the secondary characters too much, considering AUDITION's format. I would have liked to have seen more of Julio, the Spanish dance instructor's son, who is pursuing music. He and Sara share an almost brother-sister-like bond, which I enjoyed. Also, her dancer girl friends kind of morphed together for me. None of them stood out particularly. To me, they were just names. Lisette is a different story, since she is the cause of much of Sara's distress. Even then, I would have liked more development, of at least one of them. Probably Lisette. They barely even talked, which was a shame.

That said, I did like the dancing descriptions. It's all so foreign to me, but I was able to imagine it - once I searched up the terminology. :P All in all, AUDITION is a satisfying debut novel that centralises the problems that can befall a budding ballerina, and her actions in trying to escape these problems. AUDITION is adorned with beautiful, romantic and illustrative writing, though lacking in secondary character development.

Recommended for people with an interest in dance, those looking for a dark relationship in the contemporary YA genre and fans of verse novels.

Quotes:

"'No. No. Like this, ballerina.'
His chuckling words waft through
The smoke in my ears.
I let him show me
Steps I have not seen in ordinary classes,
His expression all fire
As he shares his pas de deaux. (p. 174)

"I stand up slowly,
In the aftermath
Of Remington's words.
Knees weak.
Breath fast.
Furious

At Rem for thinking
This could all be so easy,
At Jane for her power,
At Lisette for her pirouettes,

At myself
For nodding again,
For decisions that are always off count,
For not knowing the question
I would want him to answer
If I ever had the courage to ask. (pp. 344-345)

Buy:

* cheapest Australian e-store price

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS

INTERNATIONAL READERS

Amazon | The Book Depository

All links from Booko, because I'm too lazy to search each individual store anymore.

AUDITION in a song
* links to a dance

1. "Ghost" - Ingrid Michaelson (Ingrid's newest song, and is perfect for AUDITION.)
2. "Cold As You" - Taylor Swift
3. "Dancing" - Elisa *
4. "Corner of your Heart" - Ingrid Michaelson *
5. "Gravity" - Sara Bareilles (Watching this dance always gives me the chills) *
6. "You Don't Know Me" - Ben Folds Feat. Regina Spektor
7. "Foolish Games" - Jewel
8. "You Outta Know" - Alanis Morisette (Sara's INNER thoughts to Remington, especially at one point of the book, when he's with Jane.)
9. "The Silence" - Mayday Parade
10. "Stupid" - Sarah McLachlan *

But *ahem* don't get me started with SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE. We'd probably be here a while. Please do comment with additions to this 'playlist' (and more dances, please!) for AUDITION.

I have received this review copy in return for an honest review.

Challenge: YA Debut 2011 Challenge

The. Hunger. Games.

2011-11-14T16:14:00.000-08:00

Source: we ♥ it

I'm sure most readers will have seen this trailer already (and probably a couple of times, if not more), but I thought I'd mention it here on the blog too.

I watched it. Though I haven't read the book yet. Since the new trailer has reminded me that the movie DOES have a release date, I've strewn this near the top of my TBR list. After I read a couple of ARCs and review copies that I've really wanted to read, I'll be moving on to my "summer pile". From then on, I'll be asking YOU to choose what I should read next, from my "summer pile". Which includes THE HUNGER GAMES. Which probably means I'll be reading that first. :P

Anyway, here's the trailer if you haven't seen it yet (or want to see it again)

It looks amazing, and though I had an idea what the book was about, now I'm a bit more clued in. Can't wait to read the book, and I'll probably be ordering CATCHING FIRE when I'm done with it.

Source: we ♥ it

Q: Which is your favourite book in the series?

'The Hunger Games'
'Catching Fire'
Mockingjay'

Comment with your answer; I really want to know!

Finally read Tomorrow, When the War Began!

2011-11-05T20:34:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading the book last night, and about 20 minutes afterward I re-watched the film adaptation. Just brilliance - a new kind of appreciation and love for the series and movie just spawned because of my having read the book. I was a bit too young (the first book came out the year I was born, so...) to read the books the first time around, back in its hey-day, but it's still so relevant and it doesn't feel dated at all.

This post will serve as a 'review' on the blog. I'm not sure how long it will be, but I'll just ramble on and add whatever I want to it. I'm sure you've heard of it already, so I don't feel the need to provide a review when either you've read it, want to read it, or you watched the movie or whatever.

TOMORROW, WHEN THE WAR BEGAN has got nearly everything - action, adventure, romance, comedy, drama. There's more added comedy in the movie - little things like when Homer shakes it like Beyonce, or when Chris is telling his story of events. Overall I preferred the book, but they both complement each other - fans of the books will love the movie! Not too many changes have been done, though the whole Hermit's Hut side-plot thing was completely removed, as well as the effects those revelations has on Ellie.

Ellie is a phenomenal main character - she's just such a teenager, they all are. She's just your average girl, and that's what readers will appeal to, the fact that she's not entirely special - she has flaws, she can be stubborn and a bit all over the place, especially when her emotions are involved. She's totally kickass though and just values her family and friends so much that it's admirable how far she goes at times.

The enemies are never described, because this is first-person narrated and Ellie doesn't know herself. I can't wait to read the next one and see how things progress. All I know (from the chapter preview at the end of the 1st book) is that the gang go into hiding and then decide to go and (spoilers) bust Corrie and Kevin out of the hospital. It's going to get good!!

I wish there was something this big right now, that is literary and thought-provoking and appealing to the YA age group. I mean, for what I know, this was HUGE. At least in Australia. Now, we've got paranormal creatures and such, but nothing that really speaks to you. Or at least, to me.

I don't know. I'm just procrastinating. I've got an assignment due today at midnight (in 10 hours). I can get it done in 2-3, so I should be good. I actually cleaned my room, my level of dedication for putting off my assignment. And then on Monday I have my second (and last for the year) week of clinical placement. I'm getting sick of the hospital, actually. After that, on Friday, I'll be free to study for my exams. My uni is the only one that has the clinical placement BEFORE exams and results, which is pretty annoying. It would be nice to go to the hospital and not have the impending exams at the back of mind all the time...

[Read my semi-review on Goodreads]

Fan-song ~ Beautifully written

Lyrics

I cant stand, this silence
my heart is beating like a drum
I used to, know how it felt to be, pure and young

I close my eyes to erase these bloody hands
but nothing can truly take away this pain i feel

God, save my soul from destruction, this nightmare we're living a war
Hope, is in our hands so forgive all my sins but i can't stop now

We may have the freedom, but they've taken our lives away
All thats left we fight back, until our last day

(pre chorus)
(chorus)

Hold this gun to my head (get it over)
Cause these thoughts i will never forget
but when the day breaks i pray that tomorrow will come

(Chorus)
When this war began our lives had changed,
We will rise from hell and live again x2

Forgive all my sins but i cant stop now

So I want to ask all of you:

HAVE YOU READ THE BOOKS?

Which is your favourite in the series?

HAVE YOU WATCHED THE MOVIE?

What did you think of it? Favourite scenes/moments?

~~~

When is the second film coming out?

I implore you to go out, grab a copy of the movie somehow, or the books. See for yourself, support the film. It would be awesome if they could keep making them right up until the end.

KIND OF In My Mailbox...I have an excuse!!! (+ hidden giveaway in post)

2011-10-29T22:40:00.000-07:00

Hi. This is a cat.

Yay for excuses!

Anyway, I can't find my camera for the life of me. My room is just at that stage where I've given up on cleaning it up. I don't get how people can be so meticulous and clean their room on a regular basis - that's just not who I am.

I have two piles of books for IMM and I'm itching to share it with you guys since I haven't done one for yet another month!

I feel guilty since most of these are review copies, so I'll just highlight some books that I've got that are releasing soon/now. Australia or elsewhere.

I'll take a photo at a later date, or maybe even do a vlog -- who knows? So so so so so so many series items lately, which means they'll be thrown to the side. What can I say?

Harlequin Teen

* THE IRON KNIGHT (#4, Iron Fey series) by Julie Kagawa - Now, to get books #2 and #3, and read #1-4...

Release Date: November 2011, maybe?

* TOUCH OF POWER by Maria V. Snyder - Beautiful cover, which you can see on Goodreads. I got the ARC (check out a fellow Aussie's IMM), which is blank, but still ARCs are awesome!

Release Date: January 2012

Penguin Australia

* BEAUTIFUL CHAOS (#3, Castor Chronicles series) by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl - Still haven't read this series since it's so long. Heard lots of great things about it, and might start since I now have the whole series and can read it in bulk.

Release Date: 31st October 2011

* LAST BREATH (#11, Morganville Vampires series) by Rachel Caine - I read the first book, Glass Houses, and it was really good. Someone told me that the series gets a lot better as you go along, so I'll have to grab books #2-10, somehow.
Release Date: 31st October 2011

* THE SENDING (#6, Obernewtyn Chronicles) by Isobelle Carmody - Looks like a really good fantasy series! I've barely heard of the series, but can you honestly say YOU'RE not curious?
Release Date: 31st October 2011

* AUDITION by Stasia Ward Kehoe - Reading now, not too far in yet. It's a verse novel, but I really like how it reads like a 'normal' prose novel.
Release Date: 31st October 2011

* RECKONING (#5, Strange Angels series) by Lili St. Crow - Still don't have the #2 book. I'm thinking if I can't find a red (not updated) copy of the book, then I'll grab an ebook and read it in the meantime so I can get through this series. I've been dying to read it!

Simon & Schuster

* Silence (#3, Hush Hush series) by Becca Fitzpatrick - I am not reading this series. I'm just not a huge angel YA fan. So. The first commenter who mentions Silence and wants it and lives in Australia can have it. Just be very clear, and provide an email address.
Release Date: October 2011?

* PRIZED (#2, Birthmarked) by Caragh O'Brien - Birthmarked is without a doubt one of my favourite dystopian novels. I'm both worried and excited, because I've heard several times that Gaia's character is so much weaker in this book. But still, I hope I can still enjoy it.
Release Date: October 2011

* EMERALD by Karen Wallace - I really like this cover, and I'm so hoping there's something significant about the dress and the bird (dove?). And what's going on in the background??
Release Date: October 2011

* ELIXIR by Hilary Duff - Apparently this is a pretty good read. Thanks for sending the first book when I asked, S&S!

Allen & Unwin/Bloomsbury

* SHATTER ME by Tahereh Mafi - I just finished reading this a couple days ago. 4.5 STARS ~ What an earth-rumbling debut this book is! It's quiet in its malice, the action unfolds slowly, and you'll find yourself in Juliette's head quite a lot. So many twists in this book and it's just all really good. Definitely recommend you add this to your reading pile this summer/winter!

Release Date: November 2011

Aussie Trailer | US Trailer

* AFTER OBSESSION by Carrie Jones & Steven E. Wedel - Pretty cool cover. I've forgotten what it's about, to be honest. But Carrie Jones co-wrote it, so it could be good! Let me know if you've read this -- seriously, let me know what this book is about.

Release Date: 10 October 2011

What did you get in your mailbox?

I promise I'll be reading a whole lot more, and posting more after my last exam, which is the 17TH OF NOVEMBER. Thanks for the patience, guys! Stay safe, and all of that.

Remember, I'm hosting a giveaway for Brimstone by Alan Skinner! It's open to any Australian resident, and you have until mid-November to enter. Just comment either on the Brimstone review post [here] or even on this post. Just express your interest and I'll enter you.

If only we celebrated Halloween in Australia...

[Review] Liesl & Po by Lauren Oliver

2011-10-27T15:00:00.000-07:00

Title: Liesl & Po {goodreads}

Authors: Lauren Oliver

Publication (dd/mm/yy): 11/10/11

Publisher: Hodder & Stoughton (Hachette AU)
RRP: $22.99

Source: For review (thanks Hachette)
Age: MG+ Ghosts + death

Pages: 308

My Rating:

US edition:

Summary:

We meet Liesl the night after the day her young father has died. That same day she is visited by a ghost, Po, an eight year old boy who lives on the other side, the territory between life and death that runs parallel to the living world. Po has come to tell her that her father is stuck on the other side, and that she is the only one who can help him cross over. A couple of wooden boxes. Some ashes. Some magic dust. A ghost, its pet, and a boy who forgot to wear a hat in the cold. From these seemingly odd, random characters Oliver weaves the enchanting story of how, with the aid of Liesl, these elements come together over the course of one week to restore love and luster to a world gone grey and heartless.

My thoughts:

Ever since Liesl's father died, Liesl has been locked up in the attic away from her stepmother and the rest of the world. But one day, she comes face to face with a real ghost, and its name is Po. On the Other Side, things such as gender become unsure... neither one or the other. Po can help her; and when he does, Liesl knows that she has to escape her prison in order to bring her father's soul to rest. She must take her father's ashes, kept in a box, and bury them where they belong. Meanwhile, her longtime admirer, Will - a grubby alchemist's apprentice - has been sent on a mission to deliver a box to a certain influential person. This story starts with a mistake...

First off, cover! I personally think that both this cover, and the US edition, bring justice to the book. While this one brings out the magic even more than the US, and I think the matching colours are pretty cool, the US edition is sure to look great on the shelf. I might even go ahead and purchase the US to match with the rest of my Lauren Oliver books!

LIESL & PO is Oliver's first MG title, and I can totally see the appeal. I would definitely recommend to any parent looking for a good MG read for their child, though I personally really enjoyed it too. There were many fun times, and I loved the lack of seriousness of it all. Mostly, just the presentation of the book is just so easy on the eyes. I shall forever be a sucker for illustrations in novels.

The writing, as expected, is nothing too complex or difficult to understand. It's mostly straight to the point, and reads quickly. Oliver takes advantage of the use of imagery in her writing for this book, and compares well to her YA titles.

What Oliver really excels at in this book is the character selections. They're memorable and each have their own quirks and individualisms. My personal favourite would be Bundle, or maybe even Mo, for anyone curious. The two kids, Liesl and Will, are precious in their innocence of the world and the perils they face ahead of them. Po acts like such a kid, I could swear it was someone I've known before. Just think of most any primary-lower high school *highlight for spoiler* boy, and that is pretty much Po.

LIESL & PO is a highly imaginative and enchanting story that is as heartfelt and sweet as it is witty and cleverly written. The characters are rich in personality; readers will delight in following Liesl as she, along with Will and Po and Bundle, breaks free from her suffocating prison of a home and returns to someplace she thought she would never return to. LIESL & PO is just brilliance.

Buy:

* cheapest Australian e-store price

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS

INTERNATIONAL READERS

Amazon | The Book Depository

All links from Booko, because I'm too lazy to search each individual store anymore.

I have received this review copy in return for an honest review.

Challenge: ---

Squeakers and Buttberp talk books

2011-10-25T15:00:00.000-07:00

Hey there readers! I'm just here in between study sessions.

For those who missed it on the Google Reader yesterday, I'm hosting a giveaway for 'Brimstone' by Alan Skinner. You can go check it out HERE. If you're an Aussie resident, all you have to do is comment and you're in the draw for a free physical copy!

Anyway, you might be wondering: What's up with the title of this blog post? Exactly what it says, really. I'm sure a few of you know about this online animated text-to-video maker called XTRANORMAL. "Squeakers and Buttberp" is one of those. Don't tune off just yet! It's actually quite...well, funny.

Each video consists of two bears: one wearing overalls and the other in Native American gear, Squeakers and Buttberp respectively. Squeakers loves to read, and the two bears strike up some conversation and he (though he has a girl's voice) will segue into the newest book he has read. Aaaand Buttberp's only got one think on his mind all the while: hot chicks. Each video is only around 2 mins so they don't take long at all to get through, and many of the books mentioned are actually ones I've enjoyed myself or have wanted to read.

Check them out if you want to watch something bookish but also a bit silly and won't take too long to watch. In a few days my review of LIESL & PO (by Lauren Oliver) will be up. Loved it, and if I could, I'd ramble on about the prettiness of the book and its contents right now, but I've got to get back to work. Thanks for reading, and if you do go watch one of the vids, comment or like!

Links:

Youtube channel

Wordpress

*I was not asked to mention Squeakers and Buttberp. I thought maybe someone else might appreciate the vids.

I actually stumbled upon this when looking into 'God is in the Pancakes' by Robin Epstein AGAIN.*

[Review & Giveaway] Brimstone by Alan Skinner

2011-10-24T15:00:00.000-07:00

Title: Brimstone {goodreads}

Authors: Alan Skinner

Publication (dd/mm/yy): 04/10/10

Publisher: Sibling Press

Source: For review (thanks Sibling Press!)
Age: 14+ Mild to moderate violence and gore

Pages: 300
Series: #1 (Earth, Air, Fire and Water)

My Rating:

Summary:

At the age of 14, Jenny Swift is torn from her home deep in the forest to become apprenticed to the master alchemist Richard Antrobus. Jenny's mother was a healer from the East who has taught her well and from whom she inherits her exotic looks. But this difference means that she faces suspicion and distrust as she is drawn into a plot to throw the world into chaos. Not only does Jenny have to fight to stay alive amid the treachery and intrigue that surrounds the court of the Duke, but she finds her friendships and loyalties tested to the full. Forced to seek the key to the greatest secrets of the alchemists, Jenny discovers the power that lies within her - skills which could make her the greatest alchemist of any age.

My thoughts:

What Skinner has written in 'Brimstone' is a cleverly spun tale that draws upon a reader's imagination in ways that any good fantasy novel should. Full of drama, danger, intrigue, magic, astonishment, and Romance with a capital 'R', 'Brimstone' fires up to a good start - as a series starter and a debut novel.

My synopsis: We begin with Jenny Swift, who is taken away from her home in the most horrid conditions she thought possible - only a handful of days left of her mum's life and she will be spending them playing the role of alchemist's apprentice. To one of the most esteemed and acknowledged alchemists in the world, mind, which would serve as a huge honour for anyone. But Jenny just wants to be with her parents and live in their cosy home in the woodlands. As Jenny and Antrobus, the alchemist, reach the great city of Vale, Jenny is thrown into imminent danger. Murder, betrayal...

Cover: Like any book, 'Brimstone' comes with its good points, and its bad points. Cover-wise, I probably would not have taken a second glance at it, to be completely honest. It's nothing to jump over the moon about, and it has a dated look to it. It gets the job done though.

Writing: 3rd perspective. Yes, it did result in a bit of a detached feeling towards the characters. Overall, it was also quite wordy (at times), and I did need to skip passages I found unnecessary. At best, Skinner remembers to include all the senses when describing something that should be dramatic and elicit strong reactions from the reader.

Characters: I liked and appreciated them the same way I would appreciate a Shakespearean character - a good point by far. I think with more character development, that I'm hoping will be in the next books, these characters can go much further and become memorable ones. I don't have a favourite, though I did enjoy the scenes with Emily and Jenny together; they have such a great friendship.

Ending: Definitive, momentous, heartfelt and dramatic. The twists at the end really threw me off, but any twists usually do.

Recommended for any fan of the fantasy/historical genres.

Note: Thank you Sibling Press for the documents and notes on the book, AND the actual book itself! I actually didn't have a look through the notes until afterward, and if I had known there was a character list in there I would have looked further, since there are so many characters in this book!

Quote:

Check out the first chapter HERE.

Buy:

* cheapest Australian e-store price

AUSTRALIAN RESIDENTS

INTERNATIONAL READERS

Amazon | The Book Depository

All links from Booko, because I'm too lazy to search each individual store anymore.

I have received this review copy in return for an honest review.

Challenge: ---

Links:

Facebook

Giveaway Time!

Australia only, ends 18th of November.

All you have to do is COMMENT below and answer this question: Which is your favourite element - earth, air, fire or water? Include an email address so I can contact you if you win!

Words on Paper

[Review] Prized (#2) by Caragh O'Brien

[Review] Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi

[Blog Tour] Fated by Sarah Alderson -- first chapter teaser

In My Mailbox (61): Christmas!!!

Maria V. Snyder Author Chat!

[Review] The Girl in the Steel Corset by Kady Cross--book one in the Steampunk Chronicles

[Review] Cinder by Marissa Meyer--Book one in the Lunar Chronicles

YA Historical Fiction Challenge 2012 & January is for the past

[Review] Tempest Rising by Tracy Deebs

[Review + Giveaway] Sister, Missing by Sophie McKenzie

[Review] Girl, Missing by Sophie McKenzie

[Review] Touch of Power by Maria V. Snyder

Whoa, where did I go?

Faves of Twentyeleven Book Awards: Day One ~ Books

My prequel to the *FAVES OF TWENTYELEVEN BOOK AWARDS*

Book Previews (1): January 2012

[Review + Giveaway] Happy Birthday To Me by Brian Rowe

[Early Review] Wanderlove by Kirsten Hubbard

[Review] Like Mandarin by Kirsten Hubbard

In My Mailbox (59-60): My Desk Collapsed...

[Review] Legend by Marie Lu

[Review] Amplified by Tara Kelly

In My Mailbox (51-58): Catch up time!!

[Review] Audition by Stasia Ward Kehoe

The. Hunger. Games.

Finally read Tomorrow, When the War Began!

KIND OF In My Mailbox...I have an excuse!!! (+ hidden giveaway in post)

[Review] Liesl & Po by Lauren Oliver

Squeakers and Buttberp talk books

[Review & Giveaway] Brimstone by Alan Skinner

My prequel to the FAVES OF TWENTYELEVEN BOOK AWARDS