Books and Things

Kind of a DNF

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0000

...sort of...

Have you ever run into this problem? I have a book here I couldn't wait to dive into. The book is:

In this wry take on the post-apocalyptic horror novel, a pandemic has devastated the planet. The plague has sorted humanity into two types: the uninfected and the infected, the living and the living dead.

Now the plague is receding, and Americans are busy rebuilding civilization under orders from the provisional government based in Buffalo. Their top mission: the resettlement of Manhattan. Armed forces have successfully reclaimed the island south of Canal Street—aka Zone One—but pockets of plague-ridden squatters remain. While the army has eliminated the most dangerous of the infected, teams of civilian volunteers are tasked with clearing out a more innocuous variety—the “malfunctioning” stragglers, who exist in a catatonic state, transfixed by their former lives.

Mark Spitz is a member of one of the civilian teams working in lower Manhattan. Alternating between flashbacks of Spitz’s desperate fight for survival during the worst of the outbreak and his present narrative, the novel unfolds over three surreal days, as it depicts the mundane mission of straggler removal, the rigors of Post-Apocalyptic Stress Disorder, and the impossible job of coming to grips with the fallen world.

And then things start to go wrong.

Both spine chilling and playfully cerebral, Zone One brilliantly subverts the genre’s conventions and deconstructs the zombie myth for the twenty-first century.

I wasn't going to do a post about this one, but I just know I'm not going to get back to this one any time soon if I put it off. I am calling this one a DNF but I am determined to get back to it at a later date (probably a long time from now). I decided to write up a bit about the book because I think after only reading a few pages, I'd have to say it is beautifully written. The descriptions are stunning and his voice is very lyrical. Unfortunately, it is also quite a bit slow in the beginning and despite the lyrical quality, it is hard to immediately connect to the main character.

I am still recommending it to those that love a well written book and do not mind the slowness in the way it starts. Others who just love horror books, I just want to caution you that even though it is a zombie book, it does not have that fast paced running feeling that a lot of those books have. Well, at least in the beginning. Oh and if you do a review of this book, definitely let me know how you feel about it. I want to know if I should have just stuck to it.

I think I just need to be in a mood for it. *sigh* I admit, I just didn't have the patience for it right now. Don't blame the book, blame the reader. Hopefully a better review will come later this year.
I received this book from the publisher and no compensation for my opinion was given.

Ever have a book strike you this way? Wonderfully written but hard to read?

Edit: It looks like a lot of us feel the same way. Sometimes I struggle through and sometimes not. I love that we all feel bad about it. Well... not about feeling bad about it, but that I'm not the only one! ;) ❤

Changeling Dawn by Dani Harper

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Wed, 25 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0000

RUN

Shadow and moonlight merge beneath her bare feet,
the forest floor blurring as she flees the dogs and torches. Werewolf, monster -- those are the names given her kind by the humans who hate them.

HUNT

Kenzie Macleod has spent her whole life hiding what she is, and she’s not about to open up to any man, even one as powerfully attractive as wildlife expert Josh Talarkoteen. But legend says that a Changeling cannot escape the call of her true mate, even in the wilderness of backcountry Alaska.

MATE

An isolated archeological site, a terrified Changeling cub, a secretive research center -- as Kenzie and Josh face the ultimate betrayal, his obsidian eyes promise untold pleasure and hint at dark secrets of his own . . .

This is the third book in the Macleod Changeling series. It can be read on it's own as a stand-alone. However, I suggest you get the first two books, Changeling Moon and Changeling Dream (my reviews linked) because they all rock. This one rocks as well, and I swear Dani has me as a fan. I just want to know if she might have a secret knowledge of these changelings and could she introduce me to one... especially if it is a Macleod? ;)

Ah, but back to this book. In this book we become very familiar with Mackenzie (Kenzie) the youngest girl of the family. She is a loner and with good reason. She was terrified as a small girl and kept that terror with her as she grew up. So, with every good PNR, she is given a chance at love not with one she would have chosen, but one she needed to choose. One that could heal her soul as well as her heart.

But Kenzie was not just given one chance at redemption, but two. One comes in the form of a little girl who reminds her of her past, another is in the form of a man... a HUMAN man who also carries his own soul scars. So the question becomes if all (especially Kenzie) can open themselves up to heal the wounds of the past and what is to come in this adventure.

Oh can you tell that I just loved this book? Kenzie is no shrinking violet either. Very strong and determined. Plus, the secondary characters also rock. I swear if you love PNR, you must pick up this whole series. You will fall in love with this family of changelings as much as I have! I give this book 5 stars. I was so in the mood for a good shifter PNR and it so fit the bill!

I received this ARC from the author an no compensation for my review was given.

PS. I also have to say that Dani donated money to Polar Pug Rescue when I was running the Puppies Birthday Giveaway to support the contest! She has adopted pugs from this group as well. I just had to let you know how much this author rocks! Thanks Dani!

Mirror Maze by Michaele Jordan

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0000

Jacob Aldridge is still utterly devastated by the death of his fiance, when he suddenly encounters her doppelganger. Livia Aram's uncanny resemblance to the late Rhoda Carothers so transcends coincidence that Jacob becomes obsessed with her. The intensity of his passion terrifies her until her compassion is roused by his desperate plight. A demon is stalking him, a succubus-like entity that feeds on human pain and desire. With the help of Jacob's sister, Cecily, and Livia's guardian, the mysterious Dr. Chang, they overcome the demon. Or so it appears . . .

Jacob, Livia, and Cecily are all victims of a single curse, a curse that entrapped and destroyed their parents before them. Now fate has drawn the unsuspecting descendants together, and the curse is playing out again. Nothing can help them, until Cecily's husband returns from abroad. Colonel Beckford has been missing for years; he has seen strange things and acquired strange powers in his absence. Now he will do whatever it takes to free his wife and end the demon and its curse once and for all.

I have to say that I know I'm going to have a hard time reviewing this book. First, I did think this was YA but it is an adult book. There are allusions to smex, but nothing overtly descriptive so the YA crowd could read this one quite easily. It is also full of descriptions from history and fully vetted in a Victorian setting. There is even a few definitions at the back of the book for those who are curious about a certain phrase or specific event or item. So, the book was well researched for those history buffs.

Now, why would I have trouble reviewing? The problem is that there are several of you that I would have to encourage you many times not to put down this book. Seriously. This book seems to consist of 3 separate short stories. None of the 3 actually feel like short stories but they are actually all compete within each section. Now, this is why I would have to encourage you to keep on reading. It's confusing.

Every time I started a section of this book, I was lost, confused and utterly baffled. I just about couldn't see right from left and up from down. The title suits this book well. So, why would I encourage you to keep on reading? Because it all comes together in the ending of each section. It makes sense. However, the next section tends to take that sense and turn it back on it's ear. You are back to scratching your head wondering how you took that wrong turn in Albuquerque (Bugs Bunny reference).

Despite the extreme confusion, I found myself wanting to continue. Wanting to find out how all the parts fit together. Plus, in the end... there is a twist that you will not see. I wouldn't even have minded it continuing for at least one more part just to make sure everything was okay. I think by that time even though the ending made sense... I just didn't trust it anymore. ;)

I give this confusing and interesting book 4 stars. If you hate to be lost (really lost) in a book this one may not be for you. However, if you love a book where you don't seem to be able to predict which way the maze will lead you, try this book. It's a mystery worth solving.
I received this book from PYR and no compensation for my review was given.

My Book Wishlist

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Sat, 21 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0000

Meme hosted by Book Chick City

Cursed by Jennifer L Armentrout

TBP: Sept. 2012

Description:

Dying sucks--and high school senior Ember McWilliams knows firsthand. After a fatal car accident, her gifted little sister brought her back. Now anything Ember touches dies. And that, well, really blows.

Ember operates on a no-touch policy with all living things--including boys. When Hayden Cromwell shows up, quoting Oscar Wilde and claiming her curse is a gift, she thinks he’s a crazed cutie. But when he tells her he can help control it, she’s more than interested. There’s just one catch: Ember has to trust Hayden's adopted father, a man she's sure has sinister reasons for collecting children whose abilities even weird her out. However, she’s willing to do anything to hold her sister's hand again. And hell, she'd also like to be able to kiss Hayden. Who wouldn't?

But when Ember learns the accident that turned her into a freak may not've been an accident at all, she’s not sure who to trust. Someone wanted her dead, and the closer she gets to the truth, the closer she is to losing not only her heart, but her life. For real this time.

Shadows Before the Sun by Kelly Gay

TBP: TBD (Summer 2012)

Description:

TBA

I know... but I love this series. Blodeuedd alerted me to the cover. I can't wait! Hank! I'm here for you!!! *ahem..* Excuse me...

So... what is on your wishlist this week?

Winners!

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0000

The winners for:

Kindle ebook:

Mel S

Kat B

Print:

Kristin

Didn't win? You can still get the book in print and the ebook is $2.99 at Amazon and on the Nook

My Book Boyfriend

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0000

Meme hosted by The Unread Reader

Oooh so who am I putting up as book boyfriends today? Noticed the plural??? ;D Oh yea! I'm going plural for this one.

So, if you read my review for Demons at Deadnight you will see that I mentioned that ALL the Hex Boys were gorgeous! So, I'm gonna add them all! Okay, now I realize that they are still so young. So, I will do what I usually do and show what they will look like when they reach at least 21 or older. So, they will be in a special wing of the harem for YA characters. They must mature to enter the main harem. I mean, I'm not that crazy!

So, what will the boys look like when they are men? All grown up and ready to be introduced into the main harem? Hm...

Let's start with Ayden, shall we?

Wears all black, is "smokin'" *giggles*, dark almond eyes, Hawaiian in background, can be frustratingly handsome when in a intimate position even if it isn't intentional. Oh yea... he is one hot hottie! *giggles again*

(You'll get the giggles when you read the book)

Oh and we can't forget that he was so nice that they made him twice! Yep, he has a twin. So, I think I'll put him next on the list.

Here is his twin, Jayden. Jayden can be a "tad" (heh) in the overanalyzing department. He can give you any statistics you never knew you even wanted. Despite his very "dry" personality, he is caring and very sweet. I can't wait to see more of his personality come out in the series.

Both characters portrayed by Takeshi Kaneshiro.

Hm... now who should I add next?

Logan is very pale and has very silver blonde hair. His eyes are green and he has hidden talents that make him irresistible to the ladies (no magic there, just skills). Oh in fact he is just a breath of fresh air! He is quite shy so he does not capitalize on those skills. He is also a snappy dresser. Here he is in his dressed down look in Calvin Kline. Hm... I wonder what else we will find out about him in the future?

Logan is played by AJ Abualrub.

Now, lets see a bit more muscle... how about...

Here is Blake all grown up. He is a card and a half. He loves flowers and all things in nature. Especially women. He can't get enough of them. He also knows he is handsome and will willingly go running after and save any woman he can. I mean, it's great to be the hero, right? I can't wait to see him find "the one" that will make him forget all else. Well, he'll be in my harem, so that's me, right? ;D

Blake is played by Paul Marron

Oh I wonder if we should visit the next door neighbor?

Tristan! Very sweet and concerned about everyone. He has a hypnotic quality about him. ;) He can make you forget yourself and give you something else to think about. Oh yea... grow up quick! ;D

Tristan is played by Mathias Lauridsen

Now for the darkest of the group:

Matthias has quite a few demons in his personality. Although he is the hardest to like, you sense that there is a good and honest streak underneath all that bluster. He is quick to respond to anyone in need, especially when it comes to those that are vulnerable. I also feel that as soon as you have this one pegged, he will switch up and throw you a fruit loop. Yep, he'll keep you on your toes and protect you from all the darkness in life.

Matthias is played by Theo Teodoridis

So, what do you think of my potential harem? Hey, I'm claiming them now. I already know that Missie and Jen are sniffing around Ayden. I've upped the security on his suite. I'm also cautioning Jenny and Felicia so they know once they are all grown up... these boys are MINE! ;D

Oh I had such a hard time doing this post. Having to look at ALL those pictures! *swoon* Oh my... Oh yea...

So who is new in your harem?

Demons at Deadnight by A and E Kirk with Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0000

For seventeen-year-old Aurora Lahey, survival is a lifestyle.

DEMONIC DESTINY
Aurora has the crappiest superpower on the planet. And it’s just unleashed a hit squad from hell. Demons are on the hunt, salivating to carve her carcass into confetti.

CHARISMATIC KILLERS
The Hex Boys—mysterious, hunky, and notorious for their trails of destruction—have the answers Aurora needs to survive. But their overload of deadly secrets and suspicious motives makes trusting them a potentially fatal move.

LETHAL ALLIES
The battle to save her family, herself, and stop demonic domination may cost Aurora everything worth living for, and force her to reveal her own dark secrets. But no worries. She needs the Hex Boys to pull this off, and, chances are, teaming up with these guys will get her killed anyway.

The book opens introducing us to the heroine, Aurora. She is described as having long auburn curly hair, blue eyes and impossibly long legs. I admit that last description made me jelly so I was looking forward to hating Aurora. But, no. In the first chapter I see that she is funny, snarky, and a bit goofy. Shoot. I was going to like her. *looks down at short legs* Oh well... ;D

We find that Aurora has a gift... or a curse. She can see demons and they know about her. Why? The purpose? Well, that is part of her adventure. She has at least a couple of allies in which she can confide, but unfortunately, one is a cat and the other is an angel who she cannot get a hold of to answer even a few of her questions. She is thrown into the "protection" of the Hex Boys who have an odd reputation at her new school. Now she just has to figure out if they really want to protect her or kill her. Talk about an exhausting few weeks! This virtual non-stop action turns out to be quite a fun ride.

Now about those Hex Boys. All of them gorgeous ('nuff said... *giggles*)! And this is how I met them in my mind: These boys are jerks! Then: These boys have a reason to be jerks, but still... To my final analysis: Oh yea, I would have totally hung out with these guys in high school. Yep, I'm a believer! There is also a possible romance going on with one of the boys, so those that insist on having your swooning in your adventure will not be disappointed.

This book was refreshing. One main reason? No clichés I've seen around the blogoverse that annoy many of us in the YA genre. No love triangles (and one good joke about them). There is a dance around the romance, but it isn't that hair pulling out kind, but it was fun. The heroine is smart, intelligent, snarky and willing to learn. Aurora also has a family who cares about her. It feels genuine and I swear I'm going to move into that family unit. You will love the INVOLVED parents! Oh and one last cliché I personally hate with a vengeance... no cliffie! Whee! There is a thread that opens up at the end to make you want that next book, but the main adventure in this book feels complete.

I give this book 5 stars. I just loved the fact that it proves you can have a fun book that does not have to bow to cliché. I have been wanting a book like this for a while and I can't wait to see how Aurora grows in the coming series. I also can't wait to get to know the Hex Boys even better.

I received this book from the author and no compensation for my review was given.

Giveaways around the blogoverse:
PS @Missie: The Hexy Knights are MINE!

Oh and for everyone else, Missie is also having a giveaway of the book HERE. I did get a swag box when I got this book. It was made of awesome! It really enhanced the book for me and if you would like a chance at the swag, the authors are having an international giveaway HERE.

The book is $10.99 ebook is only $2.99 at Amazon and B&N

Giveaway!

I am giving away 2 Kindle ebooks! Just fill out the rafflecopter form to enter! Whee!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Scorpion's Nest by Nate Granzow: Review by Anachronist

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Sun, 15 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0000

Mini review: The Scorpion’s Nest by Nate Granzow

· Format: Kindle Edition
· File Size: 385 KB
· Print Length: 185 pages
· Publisher: Publish Green (August 25, 2011)

Synopsis:

Some secrets are worth dying over. Or at least some people will always claim so.

During the abhorrent and sadistic human testing conducted Nazis pseudo scientists discover a terrible virus with the potential to ravage the human body. Recognizing its promising lethality, they send a special comando of Germans on a clandestine mission— the so-called Operation Scorpion's Nest— into the American southwest to unleash it upon the population of the United States and disincline American people to join the World War II. Their plans fail through but not because of the lack of trying.

One near miss and 70 years later, Scott Kretschmer, an unemployed aircraft mechanic, witnesses a violent bank robbery. Uninterested in money, the thieves only took one thing: the last remaining logbook from that secret Nazi operation. Scott suddenly finds himself plunged into a race against time as a corrupt pharmaceutical company with a Nazi past works to replicate the virus, with plans to release it upon the world as the only provider of the antidote.

What I liked:

The main hero was flawed and the author made him suffer. I like tormented heroes so it suited me perfectly. Even the fact that he was made to rescue single-handedly the USA and the rest of the world didn’t disturbed me so much.
The narration was interesting, the plot – packed from cover to cover and all flashes from the past - logically tied to the present day.
Nazis were portrayed in a great way (horrible monsters all of them) but the author avoided oversimplification which is no mean feat.
I truly enjoyed the description of social mechanisms which lead to producing your own, personal, home-made terrorists.

What I didn’t like:

Mr. Alejo was, in my humble opinion, a great character but he was introduced too late and dispatched too soon. Pity – he had a great potential, with his allegedly genial brain and gambling addiction. I do like my baddies well-rounded and fleshed out.
The female lead, Melanie…she seemed a bit bland.
I noticed some typos in the text. Fortunately not many of them.
Some descriptions seemed too lengthy and overall the style could have been given more edge.

Final verdict:

For a first book it was a quite nice debut although it is clear the author should improve his craftsmanship. I really enjoyed that one and I would definitely recommend this novel if you are planning a long journey - it is a breeze to read and the twists and turns of the story will keep you entertained.

On My Wishlist... 2nd Books in a Series Edition...

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0000

meme hosted by Book Chick City

Rebel Heart (Dust Lands #2) by Moira Young

TBP: Oct. 2012

Description:

The Tonton have been defeated. Lugh has been rescued.
The heartstone has brought Saba and Jack together
Now, Saba and her family head west to meet him and start a new life. All should be well.
But shadows of the dead are stalking Saba.
And another kind of shadow is creeping over the dustlands.
Then a messenger shows up.
With news of Jack.

I loved Red Blood Road so much, I really have to read this one!

The Janus Affair (Ministry #2) by Pip Ballantine and Tee Morris

TBP: May 29th, 2012

Description:

Evildoers beware! Retribution is at hand, thanks to Britain’s Best-kept secret agents!

Certainly no strangers to peculiar occurrences, agents Wellington Books and Eliza Braun are nonetheless stunned to observe a fellow passenger aboard Britain’s latest hyper steam train suddenly vanish in a dazzling bolt of lightning. They soon discover this is not the only such disappearance…with each case going inexplicably unexamined by the Crown.

The fate of England is once again in the hands of an ingenious archivist paired with a beautiful, fearless lady of adventure. And though their foe be fiendishly clever, so then is Mr. Books…and Miss Braun still has a number of useful and unusual devices hidden beneath her petticoats.

I loved the first book so much it prompted me to do steampunk week. So, obviously, I need to read the second one. ;D

So.. What is on your wishlist this week?

Freebie!

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Sat, 14 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

The book's author, Eyes to See (my review linked), one I enjoyed, has a book out that is FREE at Amazon. It's called The Heretic and is an Urban Fantasy thriller!

DESCRIPTION

A former SWAT officer turns modern Templar Knight in this exciting new urban fantasy series for fans of Jim Butcher, Rob Thurman, and Patricia Briggs!

A chance encounter with one of the Hellspawn left Cade Williams with certain unique traits, including the ability to walk between the lands of the living and those of the dead. Now, as commander of the Echo Team, the special operations unit within the Templar hierarchy, he has devoted his life to using his "gifts" to protect mankind from the things that lurk in the darkness.

When a Templar commandery is invaded and its occupants mercilessly slaughtered, Knight Commander Williams is called in to hunt down those responsible. His investigation quickly leads him to a cabal of necromancers known as the Council of Nine.

There's only one problem.

The necromancers are allied with the same supernatural creature that left Cade for dead five years before. A creature so powerful that the Templars know it only as the Adversary.

In order to stop the killing, Cade will be forced to face his own personal demons. Not just those deep inside his heart, but also the one that left him scarred, body and soul.

The same demon that has already beaten him once before...

Everneath by Brodi Ashton

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Fri, 13 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0000

Last spring, Nikki Beckett vanished, sucked into an underworld known as the Everneath, where immortals Feed on the emotions of despairing humans. Now she's returned- to her old life, her family, her friends- before being banished back to the underworld... this time forever.

She has six months before the Everneath comes to claim her, six months for good-byes she can't find the words for, six months to find redemption, if it exists.

Nikki longs to spend these months reconnecting with her boyfriend, Jack, the one person she loves more than anything. But there's a problem: Cole, the smoldering immortal who first enticed her to the Everneath, has followed Nikki to the mortal world. And he'll do whatever it takes to bring her back- this time as his queen.

As Nikki's time grows short and her relationships begin slipping from her grasp, she's forced to make the hardest decision of her life: find a way to cheat fate and remain on the Surface with Jack or return to the Everneath and become Cole's...

I really expected a Persephone and Hades tale with this book. It did have aspects of that mythology, but it really was connected to another Greek myth. I was disappointed at first, but I have to say the plot and the characters kept me from staying that way.

What I would say that this book is really a question about suicide. It is like answering what would happen if you could delete all the pain that overwhelms you, what would that be like? How would it leave you? What would it do to the people left behind? Now, even though this is a very serious and dark subject, the answers to these questions actually don't come off as dark as the question. By weaving it through a myth and allowing Nikki to actually come back and face the consequences of her decision she is allowed a second chance to change and see what she did not before. However, even though this sounds like a great way to avoid the more severe consequences of her decision, it does not. In fact, the price she must pay is steep and she only has a limited time to do what is right before oblivion.

I will warn you thought that this book actually starts of very slow and it is hard to connect with Nikki. It makes sense though. She comes back from the Everneath and she is a shell of herself. She cannot connect to who she is so how could we? As long as you remember that, I think you will find yourself wanting to read further and enjoy the journey of Nikki into becoming a whole person once again.

I give this book 4 1/2 stars. I think the ending will tear at you, but I also think it was the right ending. There is a thread that opens up for the next book but it isn't a cliffie.

I received the ARC from Harper Collins and no compensation for my review was given

I've been Interviewed!

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 19:20:00 +0000

I'm at Paranormal Haven! So, if you want to know how strange I am, just click HERE.

What? You already knew I was strange? Well, visit the site anyway and take a look around. It's a great website! ;D

Author Guest Post Angela Lovell and International Giveaway!

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 12:28:00 +0000

Thanks so much to Melissa for hosting me at her adorable blog! I'm a sucker for all things pin-up, especially one that offers such a wonderful platform to writers.

Several years ago I was sleeping on a futon mattress in Queens on the floor of my best friend's apartment. I was falling asleep quickly after working a double-shift at a vegan restaurant on the Upper East Side. Lying there in the dark I heard my BFF ask me in a little, childlike voice, "Do you think vampires are real?"

I thought about it a moment and replied, "No."

A few moments passed and she asked again, "Not even a teeny, tiny vampire?"

I pondered her query and again replied, "No." This time a little sadly (though just as sleepily.)

We laid there for a few moments processing the fact that we most likely lived in a world without vampires and just how boring that suddenly made the world feel. Then she picked a fight with me over which of us deserved to marry Matt Skiba, the lead singer from Alkaline Trio (who was also a vegan) until my vegan fart set off her carbon monoxide detector, causing her to shout as she wafted pillows in my direction, "If Skiba smells like that you can HAVE him!"

For my birthday last month she bought me the stony bust of a teeny tiny girl vampire. We gave up on either of us bagging Matt Skiba, and we still don't believe in vampires. But we want to! (I genuinely want one to bite my dogs so that they'll live forever!) I think that was the best part about writing the first in my series, Blood Drunk. For a few weeks I got to live in a world of vampires. It made New York City so much more fun to imagine with vampires crawling all over and underneath of it. One of the most exciting concepts was when I realized they'd be able to walk among us during the day since the skyscrapers provide so much shade here. I got to play with a few of my other scariest urban fantasies, such as alligators living in the sewer system and exploring what I knew of secret bars and underground passageways. More than anything, I wanted to bring NYC and vampires to life in this book, and I definitely feel that I accomplished that. This one is written from the male perspective, and writing the second one has been much more fun (and easier) since it's told by a young girl. It's been so much fun, in fact, that I already started on a book about zombies in NYC! New York is already filled with so many eccentricities and zaniness that it's been the perfect stomping ground for some of my most favorite monsters. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as I did writing it!

LINKS:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/AngelaLovell
Website: Angela Lovell
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Angela-Lovell/e/B004SBT1DY/
On the Nook: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/blood-drunk-faded-blue-angela-lovell/1105675454

BIO:

Angela Lovell is an award-winning playwright, director, screenwriter, essayist and performing monkey. She’s written for MTV, several independent film studios and publications such as BUST Magazine, The New York Press and High Times. You can hear her as Mark Twain’s daughter on the new album Mark Twain: Words & Music (featuring Clint Eastwood, Garrison Keillor and Jimmy Buffett.) Blood Drunk is Angela’s first full-length novel. She lives in New York City with her handsome husband and their two opinionated dogs.

EXCERPT FROM BOOK:

The girls squeal from the rock, calling to him. The celebration is over. Blue walks toward the rock, prepared to make a speech about how late it's getting and that it'd be best for them to leave the park, when Pixie Cut shouts, "What's that?"

She points to the lake and everyone turns. It looks like an oil slick at first, smoothly gliding on top of the water. The moon is hiding again behind the clouds so for a moment their eyes give into the tricks played by the dark. The spot seems to be approaching, its oval shape twisting back and forth, as it gains momentum. Gliding from beneath a shadow, a set of red eyes appear at its mast.

"Monster!" screams Alexis as she breaks into a run.

The rest of the group is too stunned for a moment, waiting for confirmation. The beast glides up to the rock and that's when the girls run screaming after Alexis. Blue hears their footfalls growing distant from him but the excitement he feels is not fear. It's something else. Is this monster his messenger, his messiah, here to lead him to Lacy? Blue's mind goes almost entirely blank by the time the beast charges onto the shore, taking down a small park fence and knocking Blue backwards. Its weight threatens to crush his bones and without any wind in his lungs, Blue can only gasp for help.

"Minou, off,” a girl cries with authority. The creature backs up, huffing and grunting. Blue rolls to his side trying to help his lungs expand. He sucks hard on the air but a minimal amount enters his chest. The creature stands at attention, its head lifted off the ground and cocked, watching whoever just called it off. It's an alligator. A big one. Blue rolls around a little trying to give pressure to the backside of his lungs, hoping they'll pop back out.

"I'm sorry we had to interrupt you like that," she says.

Her voice is rich as though her tonsils are made of velvet. "I hope Minou didn't harm you."

Blue rolls to the other side, his face red with veins popping out of his neck. As soon as he sees her, he wishes he'd waited until he'd been more composed. She's leaning over him, her hair thick and black, draping around her. Her eyes are wide and as dark as the night. There's a little smile pursed up accenting her heart shaped face. She looks into Blue's eyes and cocks her head slightly as though listening to what they say. Blue hopes they aren't telling on him and the one thought that's bouncing around his head, despite his nearly crushed lungs: You are beautiful.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Thanks Angela for stopping by the blog! That story was too funny and you look too cute in your pin-up pic! Love it! Oh and I hope you are all interested in reading this book. Because...

Giveaway!

Angela has offered 2 ebooks and 1 print book for a total of 3 INTERNATIONAL winners! Yep, if you have an e-mail addy or a snail mail address you can win! ;D Just fill out the form below: (click rafflecopter area if you don't see it). If you have any problems with the form, please don't hesitate to e-mail me. Oh and if the form still isn't taking the preference, just tell me in the comments! Gets you another entry that way anyway! LOL

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Blood Drunk- Faded Blue by Angela Lovell: Review by AimeeKay

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Tue, 10 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0000

With summer waning quickly before the start of his senior year, a family emergency forces Blue Knightly to leave his small Midwest town and travel to New York City to locate his rebellious sister. From the morgue to Central Park to the underbelly of New York, he quickly discovers the big city is the least of his concerns as he reluctantly takes sides within a warring faction of vampires to unravel the mystery of his sister’s disappearance. In their underground world of abandoned subway tunnels, Blue finds himself falling for a femme fatale vampire whose vibe is seldom clear. Not knowing who to trust, Blue finds himself battling not only the undead, but his own heart, as the family crisis escalates and every decision could be his last.

So this time Melissa was kind enough to send me Blood Drunk Faded Blue by Angela Lovell. In blood drunk Richard "Blue" Knightly goes to New York to identify the body of his sister Lacy. But the body they have isn't hers, and Blue finds himself drawn into a dark underworld, literally. Below the city are rival factions of vampires whose leaders have decided that they both want Lacy and neither is willing to share. But Lacy isn't completely innocent in all the confusion either and soon Blue finds himself trying to protect his sister from vampires as well as herself.

Alright, I was torn with this one. The story itself was okay, it starts out slow, but really starts moving towards the end. The beginning you mostly spend trying to figure out who's telling the truth and what is really going on between Lacy, Alex and Tristan. There's a twist at the end, no spoilers, I promise, but I really didn't see it coming.

I think Lovell does an amazing job of bringing New York to life. I've only been once or twice, a REALLY long time ago, so it's not like I can say if her descriptions are accurate or not, but they definitely draw you in and help you visualize this iconic city. I also think she does a really good job of bringing Blue to life. Especially in his interactions with his mother and how he has handled his father's death.

Parts I didn't really like about the book. Ok. Let's start off with the one that is more of a personal preference than an actual issue. The story is written in present tense. It's still third person, but for some reason present tense gets on my nerves when I'm reading. I do have to say that the story was written well enough that there were large portions where I didn't notice it. But then some line or another would pop up out of no where that would throw me, and I would look back and because I had to make sure that it had stayed in the present tense the whole time. I have to say that's a definite complement to the story, the fact that I got that into it.

The second issue I had with the story focuses on Lacy. She just seems like such a spoiled, naive little brat, and maybe that is the way she is suppose to seem, since it is Blue's story. But there were time's I just wanted to slap her. I also wanted to slap her mom. Who lets their 16 year old daughter just up and go off to New York City to stay by herself. I understand she was suppose to have an internship with some fashion program or something, but still. She never comes across as overly mature for her age, and even if she had, she is still only 16. She has no adult supervision there, at least none that is mentioned, and no one except the cop investigating her apparent death seems to think this is odd. I think that is really my biggest complaint about the book.

One quick spoiler alert *** It is a cliff hanger! So be prepared to be left hanging. (this kinda annoyed me too, since there were a lot things left unanswered or unexplained, and while I understand it is called a cliff hanger for a reason, it is still annoying) End spoiler alert***

All things considered though, I really got into the story, especially near the end, and I definitely would read the next book in the series if given a chance!

Hope you all had a Happy New Year!

AimeeKay

Announcement from Mel:

Come back tomorrow for a blog post from the author and a giveaway!

Cinder by Marissa Meyer

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0000

Humans and androids crowd the raucous streets of New Beijing. A deadly plague ravages the population. From space, a ruthless lunar people watch, waiting to make their move. No one knows that Earth’s fate hinges on one girl. . . .

Cinder, a gifted mechanic, is a cyborg. She’s a second-class citizen with a mysterious past, reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister’s illness. But when her life becomes intertwined with the handsome Prince Kai’s, she suddenly finds herself at the center of an intergalactic struggle, and a forbidden attraction. Caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal, she must uncover secrets about her past in order to protect her world’s future.

In this thrilling debut young adult novel, the first of a quartet, Marissa Meyer introduces readers to an unforgettable heroine and a masterfully crafted new world that’s enthralling.

I found this book an interesting twist on the old Cinderella fairy tale. It is written simply, almost like an MG book, but some of the decisions Cinder has to make are for the older YA crowd. No smex, but unfortunately a bit of insta-love. Despite that, I'd say that the character of Cinder was interesting and you did feel for her. I wasn't as connected to Kai, the prince, but I didn't dislike him either. I think I just needed to know more about him other than his lack of confidence in becoming the next emperor to really feel for him.

The plot is predictable, but seriously, when you read a retelling of a fairy tale, it will tend to go that way. However, the setting was very different (in Beijing in a dystopian type setting) even though some of the characters remain the same. The villan as the stepmother was played well and you hated her. However, there was at least one sympathetic sister character and I think that played well into me liking Cinder even more. I also liked that Cinder did not rely on anyone to "save" her even if she hoped for it.

One thing I hated? Well, it was the ending. It wasn't exactly a cliffie that throws you off and makes you hang on to dear life to that branch that keeps slipping the more time goes on without the sequel. However, it does make you suddenly stop right before that cliff and leaves you there to ponder what will happen next. Oh curse you and your sudden stoppage! *shakes fist*

I give this book 3 1/2 stars. I think those who are looking for something different in their fairy tales will really enjoy this one. Just be warned, you'll need the next book in order to feel like you read a complete book.
I received this ARC from the publisher and no compensation for my review was given.

In My Mailbox!

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Sun, 08 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0000

Meme hosted by The Story Siren

Okay, many of you know that I rarely do this meme. EXCEPT when I have something so epic that I SQUEE! So, recently, I got this in my mailbox:

That alone was enough to make me squee! This is Alyssa and her mom's SIGNED book! YES!

However, I got one of the most EPIC swag packs EVAR!!

Oh I was going to show pics, but just realized that since they are wrapped like pressies, I shouldn't.

*shame face*

So, I'm going to do another post much later with the swag.

Just trust me... it is SO AWESOME!!

Oh all this makes me want to stop the book I'm reading and dive into this one! I'm so curious now!!!

Well, you also don't have to wait. The book is available now. You can find it at Amazon in print and in ebook format.

I mean $2.99 for the ebook? Epic, right?

Oh and if you are drooling over my swag package (go away! It's mine! ;D) There is currently 2 INTERNATIONAL giveaways going on. One is at the book blog Alyssa shares with her brothers. I think they are vying for more credit.

Teens Read and Write Giveaway

The second is at Alyssa and Eileen's website:

A and E Kirk Giveaway

Last thing for me to say...

THANK YOU ALYSSA AND EILEEN!! YOU BOTH ROCK!!

For seventeen-year-old Aurora Lahey, survival is a lifestyle.

DEMONIC DESTINY
Aurora has the crappiest superpower on the planet. And it’s just unleashed a hit squad from hell. Demons are on the hunt, salivating to carve her carcass into confetti.

CHARISMATIC KILLERS
The Hex Boys—mysterious, hunky, and notorious for their trails of destruction—have the answers Aurora needs to survive. But their overload of deadly secrets and suspicious motives makes trusting them a potentially fatal move.

LETHAL ALLIES
The battle to save her family, herself, and stop demonic domination may cost Aurora everything worth living for, and force her to reveal her own dark secrets. But no worries. She needs the Hex Boys to pull this off, and, chances are, teaming up with these guys will get her killed anyway.

On My Wishlist...

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Sat, 07 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0000

Meme hosted by Book Chick City

Masque of the Red Death by Bethany Griffin
TBP: April 24th, 2012
Description:
Everything is in ruins.

A devastating plague has decimated the population. And those who are left live in fear of catching it as the city crumbles to pieces around them.

So what does Araby Worth have to live for?

Nights in the Debauchery Club, beautiful dresses, glittery make-up . . . and tantalizing ways to forget it all.

But in the depths of the club—in the depths of her own despair—Araby will find more than oblivion. She will find Will, the terribly handsome proprietor of the club. And Elliott, the wickedly smart aristocrat. Neither boy is what he seems. Both have secrets. Everyone does.

And Araby may find something not just to live for, but to fight for—no matter what it costs her.

For Darkness Shows the Stars by Diana Peterfreund

TBP: June 12, 2012

Description:

Generations ago, a genetic experiment gone wrong—the Reduction—decimated humanity, giving rise to a Luddite nobility who outlawed most technology.

Eighteen-year-old Luddite Elliot North has always known her place in this caste system. Four years ago Elliot refused to run away with her childhood sweetheart, the servant Kai, choosing duty to her family’s estate over love. But now the world has changed: a new class of Post-Reductionists is jumpstarting the wheel of progress and threatening Luddite control; Elliot’s estate is floundering; and she’s forced to rent land to the mysterious Cloud Fleet, a group of shipbuilders that includes renowned explorer Captain Malakai Wentforth—an almost unrecognizable Kai. And while Elliott wonders if this could be their second chance, Kai seems determined to show Elliot exactly what she gave up when she abandoned him.

But Elliot soon discovers her childhood friend carries a secret—-one that could change the society in which they live…or bring it to its knees. And again, she’s faced with a choice: cling to what she’s been raised to believe, or cast her lot with the only boy she’s ever loved, even if she has lost him forever.

Inspired by Jane Austen’s PERSUASION, FOR DARKNESS SHOWS THE STARS is a breathtaking romance about opening your mind to the future and your heart to the one person you know can break it.

Sounds about right... and what is on your wishlist this week?

Oh and I am doing a IMM post tomorrow... stop by to see it!

Lightbringer by K. D. McEntire

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0000

The Never is a place of greys, a world a breath beyond our own, layered just past the memories of yesterday and the fleeting present moment. It is here, in this dismal limbo, that ghosts such as Piotr, Lily, and Elle must sort out an existence, both protecting the children called Lost and themselves from the walking darkness that is the army of rotting Walkers.

Caught between her duty to her calling as the Lightbringer and her concern for her new ghostly friends, Wendy must walk the line between the two worlds, aiding Piotr in his fight against the Walkers as well as searching out the wandering soul of the one who means the most to her. Time, however, is running out and in the end... who will she choose?

I have to say I really enjoyed this book. It is a story that is a mishmash of Peter Pan and Wendy. Just trying to figure out who was who made me smile. Plus, the story itself was strange and unusual which also grabbed my attention (yes, I'll say it... because I myself, am strange and unusual!... lol).

I did enjoy many of the characters, mainly Wendy, Piotr, and Eddie. They were fully fleshed out and interesting to read. Some of the secondary characters, particularly the other "riders" who help the young spirits felt flat to me. Lily was the best fleshed out one (yes, just like Lily in Peter Pan) and she was as wise as she usually is when her character gets personality. Even so, I still would have liked to have been able to grasp more about her personality.

The mystery that surrounds Wendy and her mom as well as what happens to the "Lost"fill this book with intrigue. I did figure out the biggest mystery quite soon, but that did not spoil the hows and whys you learn at the end. I found that quite interesting and fun. I also liked the way Wendy grows and finally learns to think for herself, even though that process was anything but gentle.

I give this book 4 stars. I think if you enjoy a twisted mystery and don't mind the frustration that comes with people feeling their way in the dark toward the light, I feel you will enjoy this alternate Peter Pan tale.
I received this book from the publisher, Pyr and no compensation for my review was given.

Destined (House of Night #9) by PC and Kristen Cast

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0000

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

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

Okay, ready for a laugh? I believe I stopped reading this series at #4, Untamed, and when given a chance to read this one, I figured, eh... why not? I've been curious as to how things have been turning out for Zoey and gang.

Oddly enough, I didn't become too lost. Of course there were things that I now really want to go back and read to find out what happened, but it wasn't too disconcerting that I couldn't finish the book. It was an easy read and I finished it rather quickly. Those that love this series will love this book. Those who are less thrilled, may not totally love this book. To me, this one was really written for the fans of the series and seemed like a "inbetween" book. Important things happen, but could have been included in the next book without a cliffie. Yep, another cliffie for this series.

What I really didn't like about this book besides the cliffie is that the gang didn't seem to have matured much since I last left them. In fact, it almost seemed like they de-evolved. Very childish but dealing with adult and supernatural issues, you think someone would get a clue. However, it didn't seem as though anyone was in a hurry to grow up despite all of the chaos around them.

I give this book 3 stars. I think it is an easy read and as I said, great for those who are a fan of the series. For those that like to keep up with what is going on, but aren't on the edge of the seat might wait for a library loan or at least until the next book comes out (although I suspect there will be another cliffie at the end of that one as well). I will say, it did make me curious enough to check out the rest of the series books that I missed.
I received this book from Zeitghost Media and no compensation for my review was given.

Cinder by Marissa Meyer Book Trailer!

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 23:49:00 +0000

LINKS:

Marissa Meyer's Blog:

http://marissameyer.livejournal.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/MarissaMeyerAuthor

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/marissa_meyer

Will have the review of the book coming soon!

Oops! Forgot...

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 22:58:00 +0000

2011 Reading Challenge

Melissa has

read 30 books toward her goal of 100 books.

hide

30 of 100 (30%)

view books

I didn't do my end of the year reading challenge. Yes! I rocked it. When I was at about 120 books, I upped my amount from 100 to 150 and even blew that one away! Yep, I need to get a life. ;D At least I did so much better than I did last year. I didn't quite get to 100 read/reviews.

Winners!

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 07:00:00 +0000

The winners for:

is...

oriana

She wins the $20 prize and "i donate in a local vet center here in my city...every month.."

the next winner is...

Mary [M.A.D.]

She wins the $15 prize and "While cats are more my thing [we feed about a trillion adorable strays on a daily basis - I swear I think somebody is shipping them in lol] - my beloved BF and his daughter are heavily involved in the Illinois English Bulldog Rescue program. They take in and foster these sweeties while they are awaiting adoption. For anyone interested, just google IEBR on the web."

You both rock and so do the rest of you who entered. Please go HERE to read all the great things people are doing. It's not about money, but often about heart. You all made me much less grinchy this holiday season. ;D

Thanks everyone for having a huge heart.

Happy 2012!

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 03:03:00 +0000

Hope everyone is having a great start to the new year. I'm playing on my new toy and I'm even posting his from an app. :) In fact, I have done the whole post from this app! Guess I won't have excuses to not post, but wait for the funny autocorrects! ;)

My new years resolution may seem like a funny one to some. I plan on blogging a bit less and reviewing less. Now, I'm not answering for my other reviewers, so there may be plenty of reviews. It's just honestly, it has totally taken over more than I had intended. I guess I'll see if I keep this one. First I have to reduce the tbr review pile. :)

Now, this dosen't mean I'm abandoning the community. Actually, I may be able to be more social! Hey! No groans!

Well, what I would like to know now is what are your new years goals and do you keep them? Honestly, my typical goals for the new year typically consisted of resolving to make no more resolutions (after that one) and yeah, I could keep that one. ;)

Your turn! Remember, the Mayans say this is our last one! Make it a good resolution. ;)

Vacay

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 03:01:00 +0000

Took a little impromptu vacay from blogging. Yea, okay, I'm playing with new toys. Will be back in a couple of days.

On My Wishlist... The Alyssa Kirk Edition...

noreply@blogger.com (Melissa (Books and Things)) — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 07:00:00 +0000

For seventeen-year-old Aurora Lahey, survival is a lifestyle.

DEMONIC DESTINY

Aurora has the crappiest superpower on the planet. And it’s just unleashed a hit squad from hell. Demons are on the hunt, salivating to carve her carcass into confetti.

CHARISMATIC KILLERS

The Hex Boys—mysterious, hunky, and notorious for their trails of destruction—have the answers Aurora needs to survive. But their overload of deadly secrets and suspicious motives makes trusting them a potentially fatal move.

LETHAL ALLIES

The battle to save her family, herself, and stop demonic domination may cost Aurora everything worth living for, and force her to reveal her own dark secrets. But no worries. She needs the Hex Boys to pull this off, and, chances are, teaming up with these guys will get her killed anyway.

Some of us know her as Alyssa, the rest of the world will know her soon. Check out her and her mom out at the other blog: A&E Kirk

Happy holidays Alyssa!