yabooktwins

Mini Review: Dirty Little Secret by Jennifer Echols

2013-05-06T23:10:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone, Jenn, here. I just wanted to update you on our Clean Sweep ARC Challenge month. We're in the month of May but I have only one book down and several to go.

Today I finished Dirty Little Secret by Jennifer Echols. As most of you may know, Mary and I adore Echols. We have read all of her published works. I will only post right now that I loved it. It was a short but generous read, about 288 pages. Leave it to Echols to get me interested in Country Music and the technical aspect of the guitar and fiddle. I highlighted countless quotes, song titles and musical references so I could google them later on. This is obviously the mini review as the book does not come out until July 16th, but please, add it to your "TBR" list on goodreads!

Don't forget to come back, we'll have a giveaway challenge up on the blog very soon!

Next on the #arcmonth reading list: Fangirl by Rainbow Rowell.

Clean Sweep ARC Challenge: May 2013

2013-04-02T00:16:00.000-07:00

Springtime, la la la la springtime. Mary and I are participating in Clean Sweep ARC Challenge hosted by Kimberly of The Windy Pages and Kimba The Caffeinated Book Reviewer. (There should be a procrastinator challenge as I am late on posting this!)

Speaking of procrastination, we have some lovely ARCS on file and I've decided to read an armful of ARCS I've had on hand. By the end of May, I will challenge myself to read the ARCs pictured below as well as some choice ones from Netgalley and Edelweiss.

All in all, I think it'll be fun and it'll encourage me to broaden my scope. So far this year, I've been partial to contemporary novels and it'll be nice to get back into some fantasy, dystopian and paranormal.

We'll host some challenges and four winners will be able to choose some of the ARCS pictured above. There is still time to sign up, just click on Kimberly or Kimba's links.

As always, thanks for stopping by!

Pitch Dark Days Event in Huntington Beach

2013-02-12T00:09:00.001-08:00

On Monday, Jenn and I, along with our favorite photographer (Jose aka Jenn's super cool husband) attended an author event for the Pitch Dark Days Tour at Barnes and Noble in Hungtington Beach, CA. Brodi Ashton (Everbound), Cynthia Hand (Boundless), Tahereh Mafi (Unravel Me), and Veronica Rossi (Through the Ever Night) were kind enough to talk about their books, answer questions, and sign our copies.

Alison from Harper moderated the event and did a fabulous job. I love going to these events, because it is so interesting to meet the authors behind our favorite books and find out how sweet and funny they are. Jenn and I have been lucky enough to see all the authors except for one more than once. This was the first signing that we were able to see Brodi Ashton and I am glad we did because she was hilarious. I kept nudging Jenn and whispering how funny her comments were. She was so cute! We loved all the authors who came out that night and are enjoying their works immensely. Jenn and I are definitely sad that Cynthia Hand's Unearthly series is at an end. We devoured the first two books and now we're taking our sweet time in reading the third because we can't let go, but we're excited to find out what new projects and ideas she comes up with.

One thing I have to mention is that when I see Tahereh Mafi, the first thing I look for is what shoes she's wearing, and that night she did not disappoint. She is made of awesome!! The booktwins are definitely in love with her and her writing. I haven't read Unravel Me yet but if it's anything like the first installment, I'm sure it's a winner. Tahereh mentioned that reading Destroy Me (Shatter Me, #1.5) would help in understanding Warner's character a lot better, so I'll probably read that before the sequel.

Veronica Rossi is always so cute and sweet at events. She entertained the audience with a funny story of how she pitched Under the Never Sky to her agent. There were costumes involved. If you haven't read any of the authors from the event, pick up one of their books today. You won't be disappointed!

Book Extras: Everneath Series - Cole was originally supposed to be the love interest when Brodi first started writing the book, but made such a good villain that he was rewritten. Unearthly Series - Explores free will vs destiny Shatter Me Series - Shower scene! Under the Never Sky Series - The villain Sable's looks were modeled after the pro surfer Kelly Slater

PitchDarkDays 2013

Young Adult Giveaway Hop

2013-01-28T23:53:00.000-08:00

Hi there and welcome to our first ever participation in a hop! (I hope we're doing it right!) Anywho....we wanted to showcase some 2013 YA books that we're super excited about. Winner will get to choose one title by one of the YA authors listed below. Thanks for stopping by! :)
On Mon., Feb. 4th, Mary and I will drive our butts down to Huntington Beach, CA to see Cynthia Hand, Tahereh Mafi, Veronica Rossi and Brodi Ashton. One winner will get to choose a title already released by one of the authors annnnnd we will try to get it personalized for you! Awesome, right?? Unfortunately, Unravel Me isn't out until the next day, but feel free to choose any other books by the author.

For more info on the Dark Days Tour, click here.

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Review & Giveaway - Eleanor & Park by Rainbow Rowell

2013-01-01T20:33:00.001-08:00

After reading/inhaling Attachments by Rainbow Rowell, which I loved, I had very high expectations for the author's upcoming young adult release Eleanor & Park; and, sure enough, I was far from disappointed. Rowell has a special talent for putting realistic and seemingly ordinary characters in a new light where they can shine and grow without changing who they really are or what they stand for.

Eleanor & Park is a first love story. It takes you back to a time when you feel awkward and insecure and weighed down by the pressure to fit in. There are some underlying issues that play a role in the story, but mostly it's about love and acceptance.

I loved the title characters. They were written perfectly. Every flaw, every thought. All their likes and dislikes. The humiliations and triumphs. I was in high school all over again. Eleanor and Park are both very likable and relatable characters. They're not perfect, but they're so real. It's always refreshing to find characters who aren't the most popular or are conventionally beautiful. They got seated together on the bus on Eleanor's first day of school, and while that first "meeting" was awful, they were eventually drawn towards one another and formed a special bond. I can't give up too many details without spoiling the whole story, but there were so many scenes that I fell in love with. Comic books, mixed tapes, makeovers. I thought the contrast between their parents and home lives was substantial and gave depth to their relationship and to the characters themselves. I also loved how Eleanor/Park would see herself/himself in a certain way, but through the opposite character's eyes, she/he looked completely different/better. It reminds me of that song in Rodgers and Hammerstein's Cinderella: "Do I love you because you're beautiful? Or are you beautiful, because I love you?" I love that song, by the way.

After finishing Eleanor & Park, I am now thoroughly convinced that anything Rainbow Rowell writes will be golden. She is definitely an author whose works I will be following. Love love loved!!!

5 out of 5 Stars
Review by Mary Munar

Side note from Jenn: OMFG I LOVED this book. I keep refreshing Rainbow's website for more tidbits. Fortunately, she has another book coming out and wow, if I am not geeking over it. It's called FaNGIRL and it comes out Fall 2013. Add it to your goodreads. This is one author you're going to want to follow. Fan for life, I need more!!

Add Eleanor & Park on Goodreads.

Author: Rainbow Rowell - follow her on Twitter.
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Release Date: February 26, 2013
Series: Standalone
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Pages: 320

Pre-order Eleanor & Park

When you finish reading E&P, make sure you check out Rainbow Rowell's website for some really cool stuff. For now, here's a YOUTUBE video of "Love Will Tear Us Apart" by Joy Division.

Ok, so we LOVED E&P so much that we want give one of you lucky readers a chance to win a copy of this book! Thanks and good luck!

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Bringing YA to YOU!: Spread the Word!

2013-01-01T09:54:00.001-08:00

Bringing YA to YOU!: Spread the Word!: We want to come to your hometown and give you signed books--but in order to do that, we need YOUR help! Spread the Word in Your Hometown...

I entered and requested Montrose, CA as my first choice at Once Upon a Time Book Store and second, Pasadena, CA. Come on So Cal, let's win this :) Have you entered? You could win signed books!! Which sequel are you looking forward to...I can't wait for Scarlet by Marissa Meyer!

Jenn & Mary's Top Ten Favorite YA Books of 2012

2012-12-26T20:48:00.000-08:00

*Booktwins through and through, we chose the same five out of ten books! We had such a great year. Now we're looking forward to 2013 debuts and finales.

Review - The Sea of Tranquility by Katja Millay

2012-12-22T14:57:00.002-08:00

The word amazing isn't enough to describe The Sea of Tranquility. The story unfolds and you just fall in love with these characters who are broken and in time mend themselves together, or try to at least.

At first when I read the book, I thought it was going to be a good, light, love-hate read, but it was that and so much more. The Sea of Tranquility made me feel things, when Nastya hurt, I was hurt, when she was surprised, I was surprised, when she laughed, I laughed.

The end of third chapter threw me for a loop. I didn't get it at first, the story is written so well that it concealed something very important, which of course is revealed.

Natsya dropped hints of what demons she lives with day in and day out. It's terrible what has happened to her and by the middle of the book, we have enough to piece together some of the horrific details.

The story switches back and forth through Natsya and Josh's POV.

Josh lives a "hard life", he really does, without the Leighton family, he would pretty much be alone. Natsya basically forces herself in this force field that he has created himself, which is difficult because they both have their guard on. They don't want to let the other one in, but they're so drawn to each other, that it's inevitable. Josh really transforms and he opens himself so much to her and doesn't know if he should regret the simple expectations that have implanted themselves into his everyday life.

Drew is a character that gets to you, I thought I had him pegged in the beginning book, I really did. I just didn't know how his role was going to play out or how significant he would be, but I fell in love with him too.

I don't want to give anymore away, but really, I just can't stop replaying scenes in my head. Remembering those special moments they shared make me smile, I'm really big on wishes.

I read the book at 11 PM last night, slept around 4:30 AM, woke up around 9:30 AM and didn't stop reading until I was finished which was around 11:30 AM. I absolutely love this book, I was not frustrated at all with the mystery surrounding both characters. The story was well paced and flowed incredibly well, even when situations were rocky, you read through them and experienced what the characters experienced. The Sea of Tranquility had everything you could hope for in a contemporary romance.

The last two words of dialogue are what get me. I went full circle and I cried happy tears. The Sea of Tranquility will stay long with you after you've read the last page. You'll want to go back, reread highlighted or dog-eared pages and fall in love all over again. Believe me, after I collected myself, I immediately went on Goodreads and starting "liking" all of my favorite quotes. You might also be itching to bake something or eat some ice cream.

I really can't wait to read more by Katja Millay.

Review by Jenn
5/5 Stars

Author: Katja Millay - follow her on Twitter.
Publisher: Atria Books
Release Date: September 5, 2012
Series: Standalone
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Pages: 362

Buy the book!

The YAbooktwins take Manhattan! And Boston. And Nantucket! Giveaway!!

2012-09-19T23:37:00.000-07:00

Okay, those were a lot of exclamation marks. But who cares? It's our blog and we are SO excited. Our trip was inspired by a YA book and then one day a picture of Nantucket showed up on bing.com and I immediately took it as a sign (I look at bing.com every day to see what types of photos are posted. It's actually really sad because my internet access is limited at work. It's kind of a highlight of my morning). Anyway, we thought about all the places we could go to and every time a place came up in a book we just started to imagine what it would be like to see it in real life.

In just ten days Mary and I will be headed to Boston where we will take a bus to Hyannis Port and then head to....Nantucket! Yes, the very island that is the center of one of our favorite YA books, Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini.

After we've had a relaxing two days on the island (searching for Lucas, climbing lighthouses and eating at the amazing The Pearl Restaurant - it's the last day of Restaurant Week), we will head back to Boston for some fun in the park, cemetery (Sleepy Hollow) and visit The Freedom Trail. We might even visit Orchard House. By day we will be literary enthusiasts, by night, we will dine and drink like the locals and visit every pub around, it would be so awesome if we ran into a local author, ahem, Karsten Knight (Author of Wildefire and Embers and Echoes) for a quick Q&A for the blog.

Then we will set forth to the big apple. Oh, New York. This will be the first time for both of us and we couldn't be happier. We actually planned this trip last year but due to some unforseen and highly irregular weather, i.e. HURRICANE IRENE, we had to cancel on the eve our trip. We were forlorn and couldn't believe that everything we planned was ruined. Although, it was very, sucky for us, nothing compared to how the victims and businesses were affected. It was such a shame, but the publishing community really came together. I even participated in some bidding auctions to support the cause.

Fortunately, it's a little more than a year later and here we are...getting ready for our trip. It's going to be amazing, plus we'll be joined by some of our close friends and we'll get to experience everything together.

So far we have some places that were featured in Sarra Manning's novels, (Unsticky and Adorkable), we're going to taste everything at Dylan's candy shop, The Met (Unsticky's Vaughn says his favorite artist is Paul Klee, and we'll be visiting The Met since there is an exhibit), The Waverly Inn, Empire State Building, Tiffany's, The Palace, places inspired by Gossip Girl, Girls, Sex and the City, Meant To Be, and every other BOS/NY staple you can imagine.

A couple of months ago, we met Cassie Clare and mentioned our trip. We asked her where a shadowhunter/downworlder might frequent and she recommended, Veselka on 2nd Ave, we're also going to take a pic on one of the beaches in homage to The Summer I Turned Pretty Series by Jenny Han, it's the closest we can get to Cousins Beach.

In honor of our trip, we are posting a review and giveaway. The review was written by one of our favorite unofficial book club members, Kristina, who pretty much loves the same books we do. Recently she introduced us to The Premonition Series by Amy Bartol which we love! So here's her gush-worthy review!

We'll Always Have Summer Review by Kristina E.

Jenny Han touches every part of a growing young love with a lot of history, the honeymoon stage of sweet bliss, the heartbreaking mistake, Confusion and fear, and then the resolution. We’ll always have summer made me angry, laugh, cry, and get excited. Han pulled at every part of my heart with the relationships between a boyfriend and girlfriend (jeremiah and belly, belly and Conrad), Brother and Brother, Mother and Daughter, even the relationship between best friends.

The summer series would not be the same without Belly obsessing about Conrad…or Jere. But this series made me sympathize with Belly. How does she choose between Conrad and Jeremiah, especially after Conrad pretty much chose for her in the last book. But here she is again faced with something so confusing with no one to really turn to, beck is gone and her Laurel does not really get her. This book pokes at a daughter’s greatest fear of not having a mother in one of the most important stages in life.

One of the most touching parts of the book is how Han ties in Beck in their present lives. Beck will never be lost. She was my favorite character, always the ‘go to mom,’ sweet, gentle, and a guardian angle (I think). Her memory ties all the summer characters together. Susannah always knew <3

Then there is Laurel, control freak and overprotective mom. I felt like she was the biggest obstacle that Belly and Jeremiah had to overcome. I felt sorry for Belly with her situation with her own mom and the fact that Becks couldn’t be there for her when she needed some advice.

Then it hits you, the realization that boys will always be boys no matter what the circumstances are going into the relationship.

Jeremiah- always so sweet and gentle broke my heart in this book. I never noticed how immature and irrational he was and how easy it is to be scared about the future or how love can make you do stupid things. It is had not to feel bad for Jere after finding out what he did wrong but in the end we all knew who was meant for whom.

CONRAD!! One of the best part of this book was Conrads POV. We’ll always have summer actually gives a different perspective into Conrad Beck Fisher. He actually tries to be the good guy and respects Beck’s wishes, which in the end does not help his situation with Jeremiah or Belly. Brothers fighting over the same girl…sigh!! Conrad always so protective and loving in his own way makes you melt where you stand. I loved how he talks about Belly and how she was “his girl.” Reading Conrad’s POV was like reading into a tortured soul. I felt his pain, love and loss.

The third book changed my view of taylor. I didn’t like her at first because she pretty much hooked up with all the summer boys but her character finally stepped up. She was there for belly even if belly didn’t know it. Taylor always meant well.

In the end I was happy for everyone in the book. Although I would not have minded the ending to be elaborated more or maybe a 4th book side sequel of some sort.

5 out of 5 Stars

Now, we're giving away more books! A copy of Dreamless autographed by Josie Angelini, a paperback cover of We'll Always Have Summer (the back of the book has love letters from Conrad to Belly) autographed by Jenny Han AND Chain Reaction autographed by Simone Elkeles. Chain Reaction is mainly set in Chicago and since my husband is going on a business trip to Chicago while we're away, we decided to put up an extra book.

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If you have any comments or suggestions as to where we might visit, please comment and let us know!

As always, thanks for stopping by!!

Review & Giveaway - Throne of Glass.

2012-09-08T12:17:00.001-07:00

Mary and I inhale fantasy reads but oh wow, we couldn't get enough of Throne of Glass. I highlighted so many lines from the book just so I could go back and reread them. We were so excited when one of our favorite bookish friend told us Sarah Maas was going to be at Vroman's in Pasadena. Check out our pics from the event, read Mary's gush-worthy review and don't forget to enter our giveaway.

Sarah J Maas is just... wow!! There’s been a lot of buzz going on about Throne of Glass and now I understand what all the fuss is about. If you love fantasy, read this book!!! Fans of Graceling and Girl of Fire and Thorns will definitely eat this up! Strong, ass-kicking heroine, romance, mystery, magic. Also, there was this perfect balance of dialogue, action, and narrative reflection that made for a fast pace and kept me from wanting to take any reading breaks. There is no doubt that this title has become my favorite book of the year.

The story begins with the main character, eighteen year old Celaena Sardothien (there’s a pronunciation guide available on the author’s website, by the way), being released from prison after a year of suffering for crimes as an assassin. She is given a choice by the Prince: compete against other criminals to become the King’s champion and serve as his royal assassin for three years before earning her freedom, or return to prison where she most likely will not survive another year. I absolutely fell in love with Celaena! As tough and fierce as she is, she has this tenderness and vulnerability that makes me want to just protect her from anything that might break her, just like how both Prince Dorian and Captain Chaol Westfall must have felt. The Prince is definitely charming and has a way with women, but he’s also kind-hearted and generous. He seems sincere with Celaena. He’s funny, too! He made me crack up so many times. Then there’s Chaol, the handsome and serious Captain of the Guard, who trains Celaena and doesn’t hesitate to put her in her place. But they seem to understand and even trust one another. His protectiveness of Celaena is endearing and I love how much he believes in her. Celaena is smart and super funny, and she has a good heart. I rooted for her every step of the way and her story both warmed and chilled my heart.

Throne of Glass is filled with an awesome cast of characters and a brilliantly written plot that will surely keep you on your toes. When I finished reading the book, I was so sad (not that there was a cliffhanger or anything). I just wished it could keep going or that I hadn’t read it yet so that I could experience it again for the first time. It was one of those books! I am definitely going to keep up with this series. I fell in love with Celaena’s story and Sarah’s writing and I’m anxious to read more. So, until then, I’m going to read the four novella’s that prequel this book. Read Throne of Glass. You will not regret it! Love love love!!!

-Review by Mary

Jenn's side note: What Mary said! I aboso-freaking-lutely loved this book. I immediately took a liking to one of the main characters but seriously, it was such a wonderful book. It was such an honor meeting Sarah Maas. She's pretty amazing herself, I look forward to reading the rest of her series Fan forever!

Author: Sarah J. Maas
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Childrens
Release Date: August 7, 2012 Series: Series
Pages: 416 Genre:
Fantasy

Add Throne of Glass on Goodreads.

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Ramblings and Book Giveaway Annoucement

2012-08-12T09:49:00.000-07:00

Five seconds of intro and the video previews my wonky face. Le sigh.

Romance Writers of America (RWA) invade Anaheim, California

2012-08-05T15:33:00.001-07:00

On Wednesday, July 25, we attended the RWA Annual Conference at the Anaheim Convention Center. The RWA is an network and organization of over 10,000 dedicated romance writers.

We spent the afternoon and Disneyland then headed over to the Convention Center which is located across the street. At first, we didn't know what to expect, we knew that well over 200 authors were scheduled to appear.

Some of the young adult (YA) authors included: Ann Aguirre (Enclave), Jennifer Echols (Such a Rush), Simone Elkeles (Perfect Chemistry) Robin LaFevers (Grave Mercy), Sophie Jordan (Firelight) Syrie James (Forbidden) and quite a few more. I read the night before that Myra McEntire would be at the signing but she wasn't on the map nor could we find her at any of the tables, believe me, we checked! But it's okay because I fangirled out on two of my favorite authors, Echols & Elkeles.

Meeting Jennifer Echols was such a pleasure, I got to tell her how much I love her and how I've read and reread all of her books. Her latest release is called Such a Rush and if you're a fan, you should definitely read it. We asked her to make a shout out to one of our favorite book-blogging buddies, she was so sweet and patient while we had technical difficulties. Check it out below.

Another honor was meeting Simone Elkeles, she was hilarious and amazing. She had some awesome swag and we left with Perfect Chemistry pens, bookmarks and these really hot posters featuring the Fuentes brothers who starred in the Chain Reaction book trailer. We told her how IN LOVE we are with her and her series and how we couldn't wait for her next series Fullriders to be released in 2013.

While we were at the event we bumped into some of ya buddies, Crystal and Thuy, it was such a fun event and we were happy to run into these two. In the fall, Mary and I plan on attending Crystal's annual event at the Vegas Valley Book Festival.

We left with several signed copies but lucky for you, we purchased Chain Reaction and asked Simone to sign it for us as a giveaway for one of you. I'll post the giveaway soon, sorry but US only for this guy.

The amazing part about the event was that all the proceeds from the books purchased went to "Readers for Life" a literacy program. This year they raised almost $53,000.

As always, thanks for stopping by!

Author Event - to fangirl or not to fangirl

2012-07-23T19:34:00.001-07:00

If you love contemporary YA then you're no stranger to the magical Jennifer Echols and the amazing Simone Elkeles. I've read and loved every book they've published. They're not from the west coast, so when we found out that they were scheduled to be in Anaheim this week, we decided to go! I absolutely can't believe it!

Echols latest novel is called Such a Rush and it was released early last month. My favorite novel and character though is Johnafter from Going Too Far and I've reread it so many times. I've said before that Echols has a formula and she doesn't mess around. The characters she brought into our lives will remain in my heart. Next year, she will release an adult contemporary book and I CANNOT wait for it! I can just imagine how into it I'll be.

Elkeles wrote a companion series following the dangerously hot Fuentes' brothers in the Perfect Chemistry Series. She also has written Leaving Paradise Series and How to Ruin Series. Most of her novels two main characters switching POVS from each chapter. It's so great because sometimes you're dying to know what the male character is thinking and then you get to experience it first hand. And when I say experience, I mean to blush like crazy...I dare you to read her Perfect Chemistry Series and NOT fall in love with one of the Fuentes' brothers.

And finally, one of 2011's debut authors, the lovely Myra McEntire who artfully blends fiction with fantasy. Last year she brought us the story of Emerson and Michael brought together by a complicated "cause" in Hourglass. Mary and I thoroughly enjoyed this book and fell in love with Michael. What I loved most was the chemistry all of the characters had with each other and how the story is so intelligently written. It will have you guessing till the very end. And don't forget Timepiece, the sequel to Hourglass is out too. It's just AMAZING. The different take she took in the second novel was genius. I loved it.

So if you're in the SoCal area, this Wednesday, July 25th, they will be signing books from 5 - 8 at the Anaheim Marriott Hotel. Hopefully, we'll see you there! :)

There is no fee, however there will be no outside books allowed in...proceeds from book sales go to ProLiterarcy Worldwide...for more info or to see what other amazing authors are going to be at the event, click here.

Thank you Romance Writers of America!!

Review: Pushing the Limits

2012-07-15T23:37:00.001-07:00

“I WON’T TELL ANYONE, Echo. I promise.”
Noah tucked a curl behind my ear. It had been so long since someone TOUCHED ME like he did. Why did it have to be Noah Hutchins?
His DARK BROWN EYES shifted to my covered arms. “You didn’t do that—did you? It was done to you?”
No one ever asked that question.
They stared.
They whispered.
They laughed.
BUT THEY NEVER ASKED.
SO WRONG FOR EACH OTHER...AND YET SO RIGHT.
No one knows what happened the night Echo Emerson went from popular girl with jock boyfriend to gossiped-about outsider with “freaky” scars on her arms. Even Echo can’t remember the whole truth of that horrible night. All she knows is that she wants everything to go back to normal.

But when Noah Hutchins, the smokinghot, girl-using loner in the black leather jacket, explodes into her life with his tough attitude and surprising understanding, Echo’s world shifts in ways she could never have imagined. They should have nothing in common. And with the secrets they both keep, being together is pretty much impossible.

Yet the crazy attraction between them refuses to go away. And Echo has to ask herself just how far they can push the limits and what she’ll risk for the one guy who might teach her how to love again.

Review:
Pushing the Limits alternates narratives between main characters Echo and Noah. They are high school classmates who have more in common than they think. They have this amazing chemistry and are going through very difficult times in their lives. I'm not talking about silly, frivolous problems, I'm talking about really crappy situations.

Echo and Noah come together to overcome extreme obstacles. The story isn't just about romance, it deals with a mystery surrounding a huge event in Echo's life and we begin to understand what really happened to her. As she puts pieces together, you'll be shocked at what really happened.

Reading from Noah's perspective and reading about him in Echo's perspective really made me open my heart. The chemistry between the two characters is real and hot. The things that Noah says and thinks is enough to make you swoon. He's such a strong character who can make your heart melt at the same time.

If you like dramatic, contemporary romances, you'll love Pushing the Limits. And while Echo and Noah do push the limits, you'll root for them until the very end.

5 out of 5 stars
Review by Jenn

About the author:
Debut author KATIE McGARRY was a teenager during the age of grunge and boy bands and remembers those years as the best and worst of her life. She is a lover of music, happy endings and reality television, and is a secret University of Kentucky basketball fan.
Katie would love to hear from her readers. Contact her via her website, katielmcgarry.com, follow her on Twitter: @KatieMcGarry, or become a fan on Facebook and Goodreads.

Pitch Dark Days Post - II (Pictures Only)

2012-07-13T21:49:00.000-07:00

Hi there! Here are the pictures, as promised! Enjoy!!

Click on the picture below to see a slideshow from the event.

Pitch Dark Days

Dark Days Tour - Huntington Beach

2012-07-10T20:23:00.000-07:00

Mary and I are literally right here at Barnes & Noble in Long Beach. I know I say this a lot, but I seriously didn't think we'd ever get a chance to meet Veronica Roth! She's here, along with the awesome Aprilynne Pike (Wings), Dan Wells (Partials) and S. J. Kincaid (Insignia). Unfortunately, we had to drive like 80,000 miles to get here and sort of missed the beginning part of it, but at least we made it.

Veronica = Chicago...yabooktwins = Los Angeles

Today = magic!

Ok, so we got a little bit of information, a reader asked them where they get the names for their characters. Veronica said that Tobias was named after a character in a children's book series that she read and loved as a kid.

Another person asked a GENIUS question, do they like Harry Potter? I mean, who doesn't? Some don't...I definitely do....but now we know that if Veronica Roth was to be placed in a house, she would be in "Huffleeeepuuuuuff," in case you couldn't tell, I was saying "Huffleeeepuuuuuff" like an announcer at a boxing match. (Yes, we are too excited)

We also learned that Dan Wells has a podcast, that I'm going to definitely add to my listening list. It's about tips and such for aspiring authors. It's called Writing Excuses, perfect, hunh?! I mean, I want to write a YA novel, I'm working on it right now. But there are days that I don't write...the tiniest excuse to not write and then I'm NOT writing. One of my favorite pieces of writing advice from successful, amazing authors is to "finish your book." And that's what I plan on doing.

Well enough about me and my writing tangent. Mary and I are having a blast (even though line is CRAZY, for real).

Here are some pics to tide you over. My hubby took tons of photos at and we'll be posting the rest. Looks like the lines moving along, we better go!

Leave a comment! We LOVE comments...we'll have a giveaway (a hopefully autographed) ARC of Partials by Dan Wells. :) Either way, it could be yours!

Click here to view complete photos of the event.

A Beautiful Giveaway - closed

2012-07-01T21:13:00.002-07:00

K. Garcia & M. Stohl at the 3rd Street Promenade in So Cal.

Beautiful Creatures is a book series written by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl. We have had the most amazing luck because we've seen these authors so many times at different events. They are so cool and funny in person and it's great that we were able to meet them. We also love Ethan and Lena, I know most people might already have these books, but the giveaway includes AUTOGRAPHED COPIES and a wristband (the wristband was given to use by the authors after my husband asked a question. Always ask questions at book events).

M. Stohl autographing a book.

I'm so happy about the movie progress, they just finished wrapping, can you believe it? The cast is incredible and so far some of the sneak pictures I've seen online have given me goosebumps! I'm so excited! For information on the books and movie you can visit Beautiful Creatures Novels.


K. Garcia at the Orange County Book Festival. Not pictured: her black low-top converses.

Don't forget to enter our Beautiful Creatures Giveaway!

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Review - A Want So Wicked by Suzanne Young

2012-07-01T13:18:00.001-07:00

This review is for A Want So Wicked by Suzanne Young, it is the sequel to A Need So Beautiful, so if for some crazy reason you haven't read A Need So Beautiful go and read it! Then read my review of A Want So Wicked.
First off, let me tell you that there are only two books in this series. In the first book we met Charlotte and sexy, charming Harlin (can be found wearing tight white tees, leather jackets and riding a Harley). Last year, when Mary and I started the blog, this was one of our first reads. We loved it and gave it five stars. I remember reading it like it was yesterday, on a Friday night, I was sitting on the couch in my living room and I don't remember getting up. I read it in one sitting and I cried, a lot. Like, uncontrollable sobbing, I had to turn away I was crying so much...but it was a good cry, it was like listening to an Adele song and feeling everything.

Elise wakes up and has glimpses of someone's past. She use to live in Colorado with her dad, Lucy, her sister and her mom who passed away. Lucy has found herself getting into "trouble" and when one situation involves the police, their father, a pastor decides to move the entire family to Thistle, Arizona, to start over.

The move takes place during summer vacation and Elise decides to get a job at a local Mexican restaurant which her family frequents. At her new job, she befriends this really cute guy, Abe who just graduated from her rival school, well the school that she'll be attending in the fall. And he basically tries to woo her and helps her out of some sticky situations. And then, Elise meets another young man..the one we've all been waiting for, the incredibly hot and sensitive, Harlin.

A Want So Wicked flowed incredibly well, I couldn't stop reading. Young described everything and everyone perfectly. There are some especially thrilling moments when I was startled, when you read it, you'll know. Young also answers and provides closure to what happens in A Need So Beautiful. My heart swelled and as much as I was sad to have the series end, I thought it was incredible. I only wish that the series was longer, I could use a few more books starring Harlin.

Review by Jenn Valencia - 5 Out of 5 Stars

I've had the pleasure of meeting Young twice, once at Once Upon a Bookstore, Summer 2011 and again in Fall 2011 at the Las Vegas Valley Book Festival.

If you live in Tempe, Arizona, Young will be at Changing Hands Bookstore on Thursday, July 12 at 7 PM.

Author: Suzanne Young - follow her on Twitter.
Publisher: Balzer + Bray (An Imprint of HarperCollins)
Release Date: July 26, 2012
Series: Yes, Two of Two
Genre: Fantasy/Contemporary
Pages: 288

Purchase: A Want So Wicked

Her new book series called The Program will be released in April 2013 by Simon Pulse.

Has it been a year already?!

2012-06-02T07:59:00.001-07:00

Mary & I will be celebrating our very first blogiversary this month! HUGE giveaways will be announced. Titles from Jenny Han, Kami Garcia, M. Stohl, Lindsay Leavitt and more, PLUS they are all autographed! We were lucky to meet all of these awesome ladies this past year and have been hoarding these books just for you.

June 2011 - Starcrossed

Also, we will be seeing the lovely Josie Angelini at the B&N in The Grove LA. June 9th! Yes, you may of heard of her, she wrote books about that super hot guy we're all in love with? (cough) LUCAS DELOS!! mmmm...demigods...btw, LOVED Dreamless. I'll include with the review with the giveaway announcement. But if you're a true StarHeart and read it immediately when it came out, then you already know how awesome it is! I had major Lucas withdrawals and I kind of need book three ASAP. Just a quick side note, we also love Hector! We're going to get an autographed copy of Dreamless and give it away to one of our lucky followers who enter.

And don't forget we still have our Be Brave (Insurgent by Veronica Roth) giveaway.

Thank you to all of our blog followers and friends we've met and "met" over the year. We're so blessed to know you all. :)

<3 jenn & mary.

Get to know Jenn and Mary, the YAbooktwins

2012-05-28T15:53:00.000-07:00

Ten things about Jenn by Mary

Jenn was the first female altar server in our parish church. She called our favorite priest herself to beg for permission. She also sang in the choir.

She reads books to her husband because she knows he'll love it but would never read them himself. Sometimes, she makes him wait before reading the sequels. "If we have to wait, he has to wait."

Jenn loves all things Disney, Hello Kitty, and pink (though her favorite color is baby blue).

Her maltipoo, Bella (who do you think she's named after? Hint: the love of her life is pale, cold, and drinks animal blood), was so excited to see me, she pee'd on me. Twice.

When Jenn finds something extremely funny, her laugh seems to get stuck in her throat and comes out like a whistle. Those of us who are used to this (because we're so funny ;)), call it tea-kettling.

When we go out of town, Jenn is usually the first one to wake up, at around 5am; But she knows not to pull the curtains open and risk the wrath of her grumpy girlfriends recovering from a good night. She's so considerate.

When I was sick, Jenn was at work so she made her husband bring me soup and he reported back to her how awful i looked.

At Chipotle, where Jenn is a frequent customer, she only ever gets rice with steak (no sauce) and squeezes about 10 lemon wedges in there. She also hates spicy food, an unfortunate characteristic given her Mexican background. Her favorite food is actually sushi. She has too many Asian friends.

Jenn was so impatient for her bff, a hairstylist, to give her a trim, she chopped it off herself in a fit of rage. Said bff was left to repair the damage.

Jenn married her best friend. They've been together for a hundred years. And if you ask her if the kind of love people write about is real, she'll say "yes" and use her relationship with her husband as an example.

Ten things about Mary by Jenn

Mary is super family oriented, she has three brothers who she is very close to. Whenever they’re in a room together it’s hard to tell who is talking because they are all so loud and laugh the same. (Her brothers like to read books too, as a family, they can all agree to add Ender’s Game as one of their top faves)

Our group of friends get together a lot, we’re a lot like family and we have these crazy potlucks. Mary makes the best spaghetti (her mother’s recipe) and most delicious crème brûlée. Mary knows crème brûlée is not my favorite, so one day she made chocolate soufflé specifically for me and now I request it all the time! It’s SO good.

Mary has the memory of an elephant; she remembers everything about movies, books, music, (cough) stuff I’ve said.

I am a picky eater, and where I lack in trying new things, Mary is the opposite. She will and has tried a lot of sushi. Her favorites are handrolls. There isn’t much Mary doesn’t like, the only thing that I could get her to admit is that she isn’t fond of Maraschino cherries. She likes olives, mushrooms, etc., stuff people generally are picky about.

Our circle of friends are all really talented and creative. Mary, who is really humble and shy is really good at creating things has made us all bracelets, cute earrings and works on her own halloween accessories. This past halloween, she was a Circus Ringmaster (she is OBSESSED with Britney Spears) and made her own halloween mask, which she glued to her face.

Not only is Mary creative with making things, she also is an excellent makeup artist. She does special events, proms and weddings. She also did my wedding in 2010 and was responsible for making me presentable for my special day. I was so lucky! Also, our friends go to Vegas, a lot, she’s usually on makeup duty and our other bff is on hair duty, pretty convenient for the rest of us.

Mary has a lot of best friends but it’s obvious that her main squeeze is her Yorkie, Unagi. He keeps her company on many late nights when she’s reading. His favorite book is Starcrossed by Josie Angelini.

You know, when you read books and there’s a girl who is confident, pretty and funny? Well, that’s Mary, just super klutzy to this list and that’s her. She can wear really high heels, but has stumbled and fallen so many times while wearing flats, wedges and chucks.

When she was in high school, she learned to love British Literature (Austen's Persuasion is her favorite) but could be found reading YA. Her friend let her borrow The Secret Circle...and almost ten years later, it became a short lived TV show. Sadly to say, she was heartbroken when I told her that it was cancelled.

Mary’s has a secret wish, only her bffs know about it, and every Christmas she asks for it, “Immortality.” She is the youngest of our group so we kid about who old she’s getting. What she would love nothing more is to be young forever. So if you um, know any vampires, warlocks or secret potions. You can just e-mail her at maryreadsfiction@gmail.com :)

Jenn is reading How to Ruin a Summer Vacation by Simone Elkeles
Mary is reading Dreamless by Josephine Angelini

Tell us about your booktwin and what you're reading!

Insurgent FTW Giveaway

2012-05-11T23:00:00.000-07:00

One choice can transform you—or it can destroy you. But every choice has consequences, and as unrest surges in the factions all around her, Tris Prior must continue trying to save those she loves—and herself—while grappling with haunting questions of grief and forgiveness, identity and loyalty, politics and love.

Tris's initiation day should have been marked by celebration and victory with her chosen faction; instead, the day ended with unspeakable horrors. War now looms as conflict between the factions and their ideologies grows. And in times of war, sides must be chosen, secrets will emerge, and choices will become even more irrevocable—and even more powerful. Transformed by her own decisions but also by haunting grief and guilt, radical new discoveries, and shifting relationships, Tris must fully embrace her Divergence, even if she does not know what she may lose by doing so.

New York Times bestselling author Veronica Roth's much-anticipated second book of the dystopian Divergent series is another intoxicating thrill ride of a story, rich with hallmark twists, heartbreaks, romance, and powerful insights about human nature. (Goodreads)

We are almost a year old and plan to give multiple books away next month, but for now, enter for a chance to win an autographed copy of Insurgent!

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Add Insurgent to your TBR list

YA or Bust Tour - Los Angeles

2012-05-06T23:30:00.001-07:00

Mary and I drove clear across town to Children's Book World to meet three incredible ladies. We read online that Nina Lacour, Stephanie Perkins and Gayle Forman were appearing in LA for the YA or Bust Tour (Penguin) and our local YA author, Marie Lu was moderating.

Nina Lacour presented her second YA novel, The Disenchantments. I remember seeing the cover on Goodreads several times and it really peaked my interest. Eventually, I viewed the book trailer and it was as cute as it's cover. After Nina read an excerpt from The Disenchantments, she totally won me over.

I had to hold back from fangirling all over Stephanie Perkins, author of Anna and the French Kiss, Lola and the Boy Next Door and the final companion novel, Isla and the Happily Ever After expected to release in 2013. Mary and I love everything about Stephanie's novels and we know we're just going to love Isla. One of my favorite things that she said was that she writes the type of stories she writes because she met her husband in high school and he was her best friend. I can totally relate to that. Stephanie Perkins is not just cute, smart and amazing, but she's in inspiration.

And finally, Gayle Forman, author of, If I Stay and Where She Went was amazing. Her books were one of the first that we read and reviewed for the blog. Both books are incredible but I'm more partial to Where She Went, as much as I adored Mia and her family in the first novel, I loved Adam's story a little more. Not to mention all of the tears shed combined with both novels, Mia and Adam will always have a place in my heart.

Spotted: Margaret Stohl (co-author Beautiful Creatures)
& Ransom Riggs (Miss. Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children)

We're so fortunate to live where we live. Thank you to Children's Book World and Penguin for bringing these wonderful ladies to us.

Click the album below to view all of the pictures.

April 27, 2012

1.	fangirling	Urban Dictionary
	v. 1. the reaction a fangirl has to any mention or sighting of the object of her "affection". These reactions include shortness of breath, fainting, highpitched noises, shaking, fierce head shaking as if in the midst of a seizure, wet panties, endless blog posts, etc.

Spring Into the Future: Los Angeles

2012-04-22T12:45:00.000-07:00

On April 12, 2012, Mary and I attended a mega author event. The reason why i call it mega is because there were five amazing authors on the panel! Anna Carey (Eve), Cynthia Hand (Hallowed), Marie Lu (Legend), Tahereh Mafi (Shatter Me) and Veronica Rossi (Under the Never Sky) were all there!

Mary is a huge fan of the Eve Trilogy and is hugely anticipating Once, the sequel to Eve expected to be released on July 3rd. You can read her five star review of Eve here.

Unfortunately, we have not had the pleasure of reading Unearthly and Hallowed. You know, sometimes you have these great looking books and you read things online that get you so interested...but for whatever reason you just haven't read them! I've been guilty of this with a few other series that I just tell mary that I'm going to read them right before the next one comes out. That way, I'm not dying for the sequel, as is the case with most books. However, I am excited to say that I will be reading and reviewing the series this month! We met a fellow YA book lover, Leah and she is a huge fan of Unearthly; she talked to us about the series and assured us that we would enjoy it.

Legend is very dear to us, it was the first ARC/blog tour we ever participated in and I read it in one sitting. I sat on my couch on a Friday night and read it straight through. It was so good! Read my five star review here. Marie talked about Legend and gave us a little insight on the sequel. The sequel's title, Prodigy was announced the following which is expected to be released on January 29, 2013.

Tahereh Mafi is all kinds of awesomeness. Not only is she a fantastic writer and stylish fashionista (she loves shoes and coats) but she is so great with her fans online and in real life. This was our third time meeting her. We were so lucky to be there for her launch, she signed our books while we tried not to go all fangirly. But seriously, how could we not? The second time was at the Breathless Reads tour in Montrose. My husband noticed her first and I very excitedly shouted to her from across the street! Read my five star review here, if you haven't read Shatter Me yet, READ IT! The sequel, Unravel Me is out February 5, 2013, I died a little when I saw the date but it'll give me a chance to reread it, and I know it will be worth the wait.

And finally, Veronica Rossi, author of one of my 2012 favorites, Under the Never Sky. We seriously loved this book so much, click here to read our five star review. For some reason, I thought she was on the east coast so I thought I'd never meet her, but when we found out she was going to be at this event, we couldn't resist. The sequel, Through the Ever Night is expected to release in 2013, no specific date has been found. I am such a fan of the purple/blue cover and can't wait to see what the sequels cover is going to look like.

One of favorite things is to see YA authors supporting each other. Mary noticed Lauren Kate, author of The Fallen Series who sat right in front of us. She was so sweet to take a picture with us! She also blurbed for Carey's Eve, so two guesses who she was there to visit. So cool.

We have attended our fair share of author events and it's such an honor to meet all of these wonderful people behind these amazing books. They're also a great place to meet other people who love YA and our YA circle of friends has grown so much. Thank you to all of the authors, publishers, Vroman's and others who made this event possible.

Check out our slide show of the event!

Greek Week Review - Goddess Interrupted by Aimee Carter

2012-04-05T19:09:00.002-07:00

Kate Winters has won immortality. But if she wants a life with Henry in the Underworld, she'll have to fight for it.

Becoming immortal wasn't supposed to be the easy part. Though Kate is about to be crowned Queen of the Underworld, she's as isolated as ever. And despite her growing love for Henry, ruler of the Underworld, he's becoming ever more distant and secretive. Then, in the midst of Kate's coronation, Henry is abducted by the only being powerful enough to kill him: the King of the Titans.

As the other gods prepare for a war that could end them all, it is up to Kate to save Henry from the depths of Tartarus. But in order to navigate the endless caverns of the Underworld, Kate must enlist the help of the one person who is the greatest threat to her future.
Henry's first wife, Persephone. (Summary found on Amazon)

Review by Mary

Although I was happy with the ending of Aimee Carter’s The Goddess Test, I was still itching to continue Kate Winters’ journey in Goddess Interrupted and I was not disappointed. In the sequel, along with Kate’s continual struggle in doubting herself and in doubting Henry’s feelings for her, the main character also has to deal with learning to control her unpredictable powers, fending off a jealous rival, working side by side with Henry’s ex-wife, not to mention the awakening of a powerful Titan. I fell in love all over again with all of the characters and enjoyed returning to the world Aimee Carter created of gods and goddesses. Sometimes, I found myself frustrated with Kate for her doubting and with Henry for his distance. But as more secrets are revealed and the histories of certain characters discovered, my patience was rewarded. I definitely went through a whirlwind of emotions from anxiety and anger to intense sadness and happiness.

Aimee Carter was able to put me in her characters’ positions and really feel their emotions. I was literally crying at one point because I could just imagine everything that was happening to Kate so vividly and the situation she was in and her conversation were so realistic that it felt like it was me that all of it was happening to and it was so sad. As a main character, I love Kate. She’s strong and determined, but has a good heart and can see through people’s actions and sympathize with their intentions. I was definitely on her side throughout the entire book as she struggled with everything that stood in the way of her happiness. And Henry. Oh, Henry! Always seeming so distant and indifferent. All Kate wants is to love him and have him love her back. But he’s just too full of insecurities and haunted by his past. And yet I still love him. I love how protective he is of Kate and how vulnerable he is.

The book is filled with tension and frustration, but the waiting certainly pays off. Because while you may be impatient at times for something good to happen, when they do, they’re perfect! Then there’s the ending. Of course it’s a cliffhanger. A really good one, too. One that left me completely shocked. I think I even gasped aloud, filling the silence in my bedroom. The event that occurred and the revelation that was made at the conclusion of the book came out of nowhere for me. I had no idea! Needless to say, I will definitely be reading the final installment of this series. I can’t wait! Love love love!

5 out of 5 Stars

Sidenote from Jenn: I LOVED GI as well, it was extremely fast paced. In the beginning, we find out how Kate spent her summer and then, boom, boom, boom, sh*t hits the fan! I was frustrated a lot too because I kept hoping that Kate would speak up for herself. I wasn't dissatisfied with the story, I only kept cheering for Kate because I wanted her to overcome her obsticles.

Henry and Kate not only have deal with gods and wrath but they have to deal with real life intimacy issues!

Mmm..Henry.

I definitely cannot wait for the final installment. My heart stopped at the end, [she] totally got me!

I will enjoy reading this series over and over again.

Author: Aimee Carter

Publisher: Harlequin Teen

Release Date: March 227, 2012

Series: Yes, 2 of 3

Pages: 304

Genre: Myths, Greek and Roman

Read the first chapter of Goddess Interrupted

Follow Aimee Carter on Twitter

Add The Goddess Test to your TBR list on Goodreads

Add Goddess Interrupted to your TBR

Add The Goddess Inheritance to your TBR

Greek Week Review - The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter

2012-04-04T23:09:00.001-07:00

It's always been just Kate and her mom—and her mother is dying. Her last wish? To move back to her childhood home. So Kate's going to start at a new school with no friends, no other family and the fear her mother won't live past the fall.

Then she meets Henry. Dark. Tortured. And mesmerizing. He claims to be Hades, god of the Underworld—and if she accepts his bargain, he'll keep her mother alive while Kate tries to pass seven tests.

Kate is sure he's crazy—until she sees him bring a girl back from the dead. Now saving her mother seems crazily possible. If she succeeds, she'll become Henry's future bride, and a goddess. (Summary found on Amazon)

Review by Jenn

Why, oh why did I take so long to read The Goddess Test? When you have one of your best friends telling you, "you have to read it!" you should listen! Fortunately, I read it when I was approved for Goddess Interrupted so I didn't have to wait long for the story to continue.

I started TGT last month in Hawaii while on vacation. It was enough to keep me from going out one night. I finished the book in only two days. From the very beginning I was enamored with the dedication.

At 2%, I was hooked.

Kate was such a brave and selfless protagonist who was completely in the dark. She faced situations as best she could. As soon as she meets Henry you get this feeling about him. If someone told me that I would be falling in love with someone who thought he was Hades, I never would have believed it.

Mary, my booktwin and I have this thing that we love, and we say that we "LOVE love-hate relationships." But in TGT, it almost feels like it's unrequited, because you never really know where Henry stands. He's polite, gentlemanly but very difficult to read. At one point, I remember thinking that he sort of reminded me of Max from Daphne DuMaurier's Rebecca.

We also get to meet a variety of characters who you will love and hate. I can't say much more without giving the story line away.

TGT pulled at my heart strings and caught me by surprise. In the end I was in shock and my brain just rewound and fast forwarded throughout the book...everything made sense.

Carter wrote a fantastic book with twists and turns that keep you from putting it down.

5 out of 5 Stars

Author: Aimee Carter

Publisher: Harlequinn Teen

Release Date: April 19, 2011

Series: Yes, 1 of 3

Pages: 304

Genre: Myths, Greek and Roman

Read the first chapter of The Goddess Test

Follow Aimee Carter on Twitter

Add The Goddess Test to your TBR list on Goodreads

Add Goddess Interrupted to your TBR

Add The Goddess Inheritance to your TBR