Poisoned Rationality

PR Special Edition: Jennifer Estep Interview

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Thu, 31 May 2012 14:30:00 +0000

Poisoned Rationality Special Edition

Welcome to another Poisoned Rationality Special Edition! Today we have Jennifer Estep, author of Dark Frost, the third book in her YA urban fantasy series Mythos Academy!

**Warning: spoilers in the synopsis for book 1 Touch of Frost and book 2 Kiss of Frost**

Synopsis: I’ve seen so many freaky things since I started attending Mythos Academy last fall. I know I’m supposed to be a fearless warrior, but most of the time, I feel like I’m just waiting for the next Bad, Bad Thing to happen. Like someone trying to kill me—again.

Everyone at Mythos Academy knows me as Gwen Frost, the Gypsy girl who uses her psychometry magic to find lost objects—and who just may be dating Logan Quinn, the hottest guy in school. But I’m also the girl the Reapers of Chaos want dead in the worst way. The Reapers are the baddest of the bad, the people who murdered my mom. So why do they have it in for me?

It turns out my mom hid a powerful artifact called the Helheim Dagger before she died. Now, the Reapers will do anything to get it back. They think I know where the dagger is hidden, but this is one thing I can’t use my magic to find. All I do know is that the Reapers are coming for me—and I’m in for the fight of my life.

+++

Jennifer thank you so much for being here at Poisoned Rationality!

JE: Thanks for hosting me on the blog today. I appreciate it.

You've written about superheroes, a (mostly)retired assassin and mythology over the course
of your three series--is there any story element you haven't been able to incorporate into your
books? Any kind of world you want to explore you haven't as of yet?

I think it would be fun to write an urban fantasy series, but with more fairy tale-type
characters and magic. I’d also like to write more of an epic fantasy one day, along with a
western, a heist book, and a romantic suspense. I have more ideas that I could ever have time to write, but I definitely want to write in other genres someday.

Ideally how long would you like to tell Gwen's story? Would you ever consider writing about
her world but for non-YA once you've reached the conclusion of Gwen's story?

JE: Right now, I’m under contract for six books in the series. I’m not sure if I’ll finish out the main story arc with Gwen fighting Loki in those six books, or if I’ll write a few more in the series after that.

I think it would be interesting to see Gwen and the other folks at Mythos Academy as adults. I don’t have any plans to write an adult Mythos book right now, but that may be something that I explore in the future. We’ll see what happens.

Right now you have both the Elemental Assassin series running and the Mythos Academy
series running, do you find it hard to write in both worlds at once? Have you ever caught
yourself accidentally writing either Gin or Gwen with actions the other would employ?

I don’t have too much trouble switching back and forth between the series. Both the series
have a lot of the same elements in common – a strong, sassy heroine, magic, and lots of fight scenes – so that helps.

I like being able to write something dark and gritty in my Elemental Assassin series, then write something that’s a little lighter and a little more of a coming-of-age story with the Mythos Academy books.

As part of your newsletter you always include a recipe at the end of each--what sort of recipes
would your characters choose to include?

Well, since Gwen and Grandma Frost both have sweet tooths, they would include some
yummy dessert recipes for cookies, a cake, or maybe a pie. I can see Logan sharing a hearty,
meat-and-potatoes-type recipe – something warm and filling that would help him keep going through a long day of weapons training. Vic would also probably share a meat recipe, since he’s Gwen’s bloodthirsty, talking sword.

While doing research for Mythos come across any weird mythological tidbits?

I haven’t come across anything too weird. I just like looking up various gods, goddesses,
warriors, creatures, and more; seeing what their powers, histories, and stories were; and things like that, and then trying to put my own spin on things.

Just for fun--I saw that Gwen referenced wanting a Triple Chocolate milk shake from the Pork
Pit in DARK FROST, any chance Gin and Gwen have met before?

I have references to my Elemental Assassin and my Bigtime series in the Mythos Academy
books, and I have Mythos Academy references in my other books too. I just think they are
fun Easter eggs, and I’ve heard from several readers who say that they enjoy looking for the
references in the books. I like to think that all my characters live in the same world and that they could someday meet, if the circumstances were right.

+++

Jennifer thank you again and I look forward to seeing what mayhem ensues!

JE: Thanks! I appreciate that. Happy reading, everyone!

Wanna know more? Check out Jennifer's Mythos Academy Page with articles about her inspiration, frequently asked questions and a who's who at the academy! For Jennifer's next blog stop check YA Reads!

Dark Frost is available now and trust me when I say you don't want to miss what happens to Gwen this time around.

Book Review: Dark Frost

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Wed, 30 May 2012 14:10:00 +0000

Print // Kindle // Jennifer Estep

I’ve seen so many freaky things since I started attending Mythos Academy last fall. I know I’m supposed to be a fearless warrior, but most of the time, I feel like I’m just waiting for the next Bad, Bad Thing to happen. Like someone trying to kill me—again.

Everyone at Mythos Academy knows me as Gwen Frost, the Gypsy girl who uses her psychometry magic to find lost objects—and who just may be dating Logan Quinn, the hottest guy in school. But I’m also the girl the Reapers of Chaos want dead in the worst way. The Reapers are the baddest of the bad, the people who murdered my mom. So why do they have it in for me?

It turns out my mom hid a powerful artifact called the Helheim Dagger before she died. Now, the Reapers will do anything to get it back. They think I know where the dagger is hidden, but this is one thing I can’t use my magic to find. All I do know is that the Reapers are coming for me—and I’m in for the fight of my life.

Oh Gwen. Oh dear sweet poor angst-filled Gwen. Estep puts Gwen through the ringer this book--which is saying something considering she was almost sacrificed in the first book and then had her almost boyfriend Preston try to murder her multiple times in between making out with her. The book starts easily enough--everyone has to go to the museum for a history project! Just what all high school kids, warrior or otherwise, want to do on the last day of winter break.

Oh and then Reapers attack and all hell breaks loose. Guess the project is scraped huh?

The one thing I've gotta say about this Mythos Academy--they really need a better vetting system for their students and staff. I mean, how exactly no one noticed this Reaper's movements, shenanigan's and crazy insane plots makes me wonder if there aren't way more agents of Chaos running around then folk want to admit to.

Over the course of the Mythos Academy books Gwen's had a pretty rough ride--in the first book she finds out about her secret heritage and that she's Nike's Champion (oh and by the way the world is on the brink of chaos), the second book she's emotionally manipulated and nearly killed a half dozen times plus finds out the truth about her mother's death and now in DARK FROST she's facing the consequences of not being fully prepared to handle her destiny or her powers. Even though Estep ups the anty each book for Gwen to deal with I never felt there's a sense of contrivance.

Each new hurdle Gwen has to overcome feels organic to her story. She's slowly learning how to harness her powers and thus taps into something dangerous in a moment of desperation. Her fighting abilities are continuing to show progress because she's been training really hard every day. The relationship problems she's having with Logan are a direct consequence of her inability to harness her powers and their shared inability to understand the other's pasts and how it affects them now.

Gwen doesn't dwell, which I appreciate. As much as she is overly nosy and does seem to walk herself into danger because of it, I'd far rather see her suddenly in danger then moping over Logan not talking to her.

I did want to cry foul about what happens in the beginning with Daphne and Carson. While its a great way to introduce a new level to Daphne's character, as well as give us a piece of the larger picture (without making a big deal of it) it felt rushed. I'm not sure if that's because it came after a very intense few scenes and was one emotional anxiety too many or if it could have been presented later in the book, but the timing bothered me.

Book 4 CRIMSON FROST (that's not ominous or anything), doesn't come out until...oh lovely 2013. Wonderful. Rest assured I am eagerly awaiting this next book!

And remember kids, pink saves lives.

"Redshirt" by Jonathan Coulton

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Wed, 30 May 2012 00:20:00 +0000

That's right folks, as if John Scalzi's forthcoming Redshirts couldn't be COOLER, Jonathan Coulton (the musician responsible for "Still Alive", the Portal theme song...amongst other geeky accolades) made a theme song based on it!

Other cool stuff related to this:
Journey to Planet JoCo - Jonathan and John discuss the song and general geekry
Introducing "Redshirt" - John encourages everyone ever to talk about the song and listen
Jonathan Coulton Blog - Jonathan proves never say never! (cause he'll make a song about it)

As a reminder John Scalzi shall be signing Redshirts at BEA on Wednesday morning 10:30-11:30am (find the table yourself, I won't make it THAT easy for you). also check out his events listing to see if he'll be near by if you can't make it to BEA and the book comes out JUNE 5th! BUY IT READ IT LOVE IT (also buy the audiobook when it comes out since Wil Wheaton is reading it, I don't have a release date for that however).

BEA Help: 1 Week to go Planning

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Tue, 29 May 2012 14:20:00 +0000

So its one week til Book Expo gets under way and you're thinking 'Hm I wonder what I need to pack/bring/lug around?' and all I have to say is this, WHY DID YOU NOT PACK EARLIER?

:ahem:

That is, not everyone is as OCD as I am about trips and triple-checking everything under the sun because you don't want to be that person who left her toothbrush behind (again) and rushing to find one and they're so expensive and--

:ahem:

I have a couple of pointers on what to make sure you absolutely have so that you avoid most pratfalls.

Basic Stuff: stuff you should always pack
- toothbrush
- hairbrush
- hair accessories
   - hair ties, barrettes, headbands, curlers, etc
- deodorant
- clothes (I try to pack a couple extra outfits, and more socks than I'll need)
   - Just remember if you are going to a meeting, party or event to pack accordingly
   - BEA 'dress code' is business casual
- shoes
   - pack a pair of nice shoes for night time things, and comfy shoes the rest
- health stuff
   - aspirin, Tums, allergy pills, cough drops--you don't want to have to buy these
   - feminine products--again you don't want to buy these while in the city

If Arriving By Plane: always check the airport's rules for this
- hair care products
   - shampoo, conditioner, hair spray--they have airplane certified containers for these
   - This stuff you should think if you can get it at a pharmacy in the city

Chargers, Electronics, etc:
- phone charger
- laptop charger
- iPod/iPod Touch, iPad, Tablet chargers
- hair straightener/iron, curling iron

BEA Specific Stuff:
- rolling suitcases, depending on your need either the 'big' ones or the carry on size so you can just roll your books around once you leave the Javits
- small purse or badge holder, for ID, camera, money, tickets, etc (never take this off if you can avoid it)
- your schedule, if you have a hardcopy, notepad (to take notes about galley drops and such), pen (to jot said notes)
- Addresses, I find its a good idea to keep a list of addresses to any place you want to go to or may go to
- confirmation pages
   - BEA confirmation, Party confirmations, etc
- Business Cards, I try to bring a 75 a day w/me. If you meet more than 75 people you are handing cards out to--blessed be, I don't meet that many folk (I haven't met before)
- Phone numbers of everyone you are with, even if they're in your phone if (god forbid) your phone dies you don't want to try and remember all those numbers

Snacks and Water:
I believe the rule is that you are only allowed water bottles on the Exhibit Floor. This is broken quite often by everyone (with coffee cups, tea, Gatorade, whatever). It can be burdensome to carry that stuff around on your back all day, so carry one bottle of water with you and the rest in your suitcase you have stashed in bag check. When you drop off books, refill as needed.

As for snacks, granola bars, power bars, pretzels--stuff that won't a) leave a trail of crumbs and b) too messy are fine. You'll get the nom-noms more than likely (its science--you're expending more energy then normal, so your body needs more calories to keep up) so its nice to assuage the hunger in small doses rather than a huge, greasy, messy meal afterwards when you're tired, sore and cranky.

Can anyone think of anything I missed?

Book Review: The Most Improper Miss Sophie Valentine

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Mon, 28 May 2012 14:37:00 +0000

Print // Kindle // Jayne Fresina

"Wanted: one husband, not too particular. Small dowry, several books, sundry furnishings, and elderly aunt included. Idlers, time-wasters, and gentlemen with other attachments need not apply."

Scarred in a childhood accident, Sophia Valentine doesn't expect any takers on her ad for a husband in the Farmer's Gazette, until the mysterious Lazarus Kane shows up at her door. To Sophia, he is an exciting, enigmatic stranger. But Lazarus has known Sophia for years and has come a long way to find her. Things are about to get complicated for the mischievous Miss Valentine.

I was actually quite a bit let down by this book. The heroine is significantly older than most leading historical romance ladies (she's 29 and a half), the hero has a murky past that the heroine is part of and that might be entangled with other characters as well and the heroine is quite the spitfire so I went into the book believing it would be a great read.

Except...I got tired of it rather quickly. I'm not sure what it was honestly. Maybe because Sophie seemed less like an opinionated, liberated woman and more like a headstrong, stubborn child most times. Then there's Lazarus who, if he isn't pressing his very seductive suit of Sophie, is gadding about wondering how to seduce her or wondering about his secrets. There's not much dimension to either one, even after we learn all their secrets.

And this doesn't even speak of the only slightly hinted at bombshell dropped in the last couple of chapters. It came out of nowhere and seemed almost a convenient way to tie up that loose end.

Honestly this book just didn't grab me. It was okay, but the execution felt plodding and some storylines were drawn out a really long time for the sake of filling the pages I think. I did appreciate that the hero comes (almost) completely clean to the heroine before anyone else can tell her. He didn't hold back either, he was quite truthful and perhaps a bit too forthright. To her credit Sophie doesn't react immediately in favor or not. She listened without judgement and then went to gather more information, presenting that information as evidence in his defense later on.

Also, though this part I'm a little hazy on, I think Sophie is older then Lazarus? His age isn't explicitly stated (not that I read anyhow, but I do admit to skimming some chapters when it was just more angsting on either of their parts), but if he's 14 in the first chapter and ten years passed, that would make him 24? Maybe 25? He seems older then that.

Sunday Sendup 20

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Sun, 27 May 2012 14:42:00 +0000

So here's my week...

Finished:
Transcendence by CJ Omololu - I really liked this. I'm not sure how I feel about it being a series though?

Started Reading:
Blackwood by Gwena Bond - ROANOKE ISLAND. My newest obsession.

Could Not Finishing Reading:
Hemlock by Kathleen Peacock - this didn't hit me like I wanted it to. I'm not sure why, but it just kind of...bored me.

Review:
Team Human by Justine Larbalestier and Sarah Rees Brennan - hells to the yeah baby, look all that stuff we keep cursing the MC's for not thinking about in book form!
Silver by Rhiannon Held - Tegs read this...somehow...before me and said it was quite good. Interesting, which I can see from the back cover.

Won or Bought:
You're So Cool volume 6 - Final volume, which means a series review and a review of the korean movie based on this!
My Fair Concubine by Jeannie Lin - Asian historical romance w/My Fairy Lady twist? All over it.

Bought at Goodwill (total $20) - my local Goodwill gets a lot of good books and they are really cheap

Any Man of Mine by Rachel Gibson - Folk keep telling me to read her, so all right here I go.
The Magickers Chronicles Volume I and II by Emily Drake - I owned Book 1 of this a while ago, but lost it so w00t
My One and Only by Kristan Higgins - I think I now own ALL her books.
Christmas in Lucky Harbor by Jill Shalvis - I love these books!
The Bachelor List by Jane Feather - I've had this on my wishlist for years, literally.
Foundation and Intrigues by Mercedes Lackey (HC) - its Valdemar so I'll read it, though I have mixed feelings about it.
Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl - oh look I finally get to read the book!

Bought in Preparation for Red vs. Blue Season 10 (5/28) and Halo 4 (11/6):
Halo Legends Soundtrack (CD)
Halo: Fall of Reach by Eric Nylund
Halo: First Strike by Eric Nylund
Halo: Evolutions anthology
Halo: Glasslands by Karen Traviss
Halo: Blood Lines graphic novel

Note to the Unwary: I love Halo. Not because I can play it. Not because I like shooter games, or aliens or well almost anything else involved in Halo. I love Halo because it has an awesome expanded universe. Between Red vs Blue ~~best web series ever. Of all time.~~, the books, the comics, the music and the fandom I love this game despite not playing it. That is all.

Lesson Learned This Week: Kickstarter is an addictive site o.o

BEA Related: Book Happenings Open to All (#BEA12 #bookexpo)

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Sun, 27 May 2012 11:31:00 +0000

Probably most people have seen the posts, tweets and general discussion about the publisher parties happening during Book Expo. And hey its great if you're invited! Its a nice treat to show that the Publisher is thinking about you and has you on their radar.

But what about the blogger who's new? Or maybe the ones who aren't, but don't have firm connections in the Publishing world? What then?

Thankfully there are a ton of open public events happening during Book Expo (and New York's Book Week) that will still be chocked full of authors, signings and in general fun. Please note some require registration, free unless otherwise noted.

Monday June 4th:

Event: Forever Young Adult Fiction Panel (linkage)
Place/Time: McNally Jackson Bookstore @ 52 Prince St 6pm
About: Forever Young Adult Bookstore event with Marie Lu, Ally Condie, Andrea Cremer, Michelle Hopkins, Tonya Hurley, Adele Griffin!

Event: Bookrageous Bash (linkage)
Place/Time: Bookstore Cafe @ 126 Crosby Street 7pm
About: Join Bookrageous, “a podcast about books and why they’re awesome” and co-sponsors Vol. 1 Brooklyn, Small Demons, and FSG’s Work In Progress for a party featuring some of our favorite authors — hijinks guaranteed to ensue.

Event: Lady Jane's Salon (linkage)
Place/Time: Madame X @ 94 West Houston St, Soho, NY 7-9pm
About: Join us as we welcome the following five guest authors: Cara Elliot, Taryn Rose, Mari Mancusi, Diana Peterfreund and Beatriz Williams, all reading from their latest releases.
Admission: $5 or one donated romance novel with net proceeds to benefit a New York City based women’s charity. Books available for sale and signing on site at the authors’ discretion. Cash only.

Event: YA Authors Celebrate the Big Apple (Linkage)
Place/Time: New York Public Library @ 5th Avenue at 40th Street 6:30pm
About: Get a peak at New York in all her many diverse guises: historical city, exciting urban landscape, a vibrant metropolis where anything can happen. Leanna Renee Hieber peeks at a paranormal 1880's NYC, Zoraida Cordova hits the boardwalk of Coney Island, Rita Williams-Garcia moves inside high school, and Paul Volponi takes us out to Rikers Island. Join the authors for a quick tour of New York, yesterday, today, and tomorrow. Register here for this session.

Tuesday June 5th

Event: Teen Author Carnival (linkage)
Place/Time: Jefferson Market Library @ 425 Avenue of the Americas 6:30-9:30pm
About: More Young Adult authors then you can shake a stick at discussing their books, trends and inspirations followed by a massive author signing book fair.

Event: Dumbo Lit (linkage)
Place/Time: The powerHouse Arena @ 37 Main Street (corner of Water & Main St.) 7-10pm
About: Come celebrate BEA's New York Book Week in DUMBO! We're lucky enough to have some of NYC's best indie publishers and literary organizations within walking distance. Join n+1, Verso Books, Melville House, and Cave Canem for an evening of readings and mingling. Beer and wine will be served.
RSVP required

Event: The Not-So-Secret Life of the American Teenager: Bridging the Gap between YA and Adult Fiction (Linkage)
Place/Time: South Court Auditorium (NYPL) @ 5th Ave at 42nd Street 6-7:30pm
About: On this panel, Penguin authors Laura Harrington (Alice Bliss) and James King (Bill Warrington's Last Chance) join forces with fellow YA authors Mari Mancusi (Blood Coven Vampire novels), Veronica Wolff (The Watcher series), and Emily McKay (The Farm) to draw comparisons between Adult literature and the growing YA market. How do these authors craft novels that both teens and adults enjoy? Whether their characters are parents reconnecting with their teenage children or teens battling high school bullies or vampires, each author offers readers a glimpse into teenage life-the milestones, the angst, the blissful moments-that both teens and parents can relate to.

Moderated by Lev Grossman, author of the New York Times bestselling novels, The Magicians and The Magician King, these authors discuss books that appeal to readers of all ages. In celebration of "New York Book and Media Week", free goodie bags will be given to attendees while supplies last! This is a free event, there will also be goodie bags filled with free books and other fun "book swag" will be given to attendees on a first come, first serve basis.

Wednesday June 6th

Event: Comedians with Books at Union Hall (linkage)
Place/Time: Community Bookstore @ 143 7th Ave 6pm
About: Comedians with Books features the funniest authors in NYC doing anything but reading from their own boring books! Come see a night of great stand-up comedy from humorists who have all penned novels, memoirs, and gift books you got for mom last Mother's Day. Hosted by Better Book Titles creator, Dan Wilbur.

Sponsored by Perigee books and Community Bookstore in Park Slope. Free and open to the public, but BEA guests can expect some special gifts! Lineup TBD.

Event: Tumblr Writers Bash (linkage)
Place/Time: Bookstore Cafe @ 126 Crosby Street 7pm
About: Join Tumblr for an official meet up and party in celebration of Book Expo America. Free booze, plenty of swag, and short readings by Tumbling authors Baratunde Thurston, Edan Lepucki, Alexander Chee, and more.

Event: PubDate at BookExpo 2012 (linkage)
Place/Time: Le Poisson Rouge @ 158 Bleeker Street 8-11:45pm
About: Join DC Entertainment, Graywolf Press, Other Press, Pegasus Books, Quirk Books, Seven Stories, and Steerforth Press in a celebration of books, authors, and publishing.

Open to our friends in the book industry. RSVP appreciated, but not required

Event: Rebel Writers for Teens
Place/Time: Books of Wonder @ 18 West 18th st 6-8pm
About: Join authors HOLLY BLACK (Black Heart), SCOTT TRACEY (Witch Eyes), LEAH CLIFFORD(A Touch Morbid), GRETCHEN MCNEIL (Possess), KARSTEN KNIGHT (Wildefire), VICTORIA SCHWAB (The Near Witch), ZORAIDA CORDOVA (The Vicious Deep) and HANNAH MOSKOWITZ (Gone, Gone, Gone) for a panel and signing!

Event: BEA NY Book Week SF/Fantasy Event (Linkage)
Place/Time: New York Public Library @ 5th Avenue between 40th and 42nd 6-7:45pm
About: Please join us for an evening of science fiction, fantasy, and music, hosted by Lev Grossman! With readings from: Kristin Cashore N.K. Jemisen Naomi Novik Catherynne M. Valente And book-specific improvisational music by Brian Slattery! This is a free event.

Event: Carolyn Turgeon signing The Next Full Moon
Place/Time: Barnes and Noble @ 97 Warren Street 6pm
About: Carolyn Turgeon is signing her new book The Next Full Moon

Thursday June 7th

Event: Soho Press Author Petting Zoo! (linkage)
Place/Time: Housing Works @ 126 Crosby St 8-10pm
About: Open bar, author petting zoo, masks optional. No cover

Event: Meet the Class of 2K12
Place/Time: Books of Wonder @ 18 West 18th st 6-8pm
About: Join authors LYNDA MULLALY HUNT (One For The Murphys), A.C. GAUGHEN (Scarlet), SARVENAZ TASH (The Mapmaker And The Ghost), LYNNE KELLY (Chained), MEGAN BOSTIC- (Never Eighteen), SARAH TREGAY (Love And Leftovers), PATRICE LYLE (Lethally Blonde), MEREDITH ZEITLIN (Freshman Year and Other Unnatural Disasters), HUNTLEY FITZPATRICK (My Life Next Door) and REBECCA SERLE (When You Were Mine) for a panel and signing!

(the information in this post was taken from a variety of sources including tweets from the hashtags #BEA12 and #bookexpo, Book Expo America Concurrent Event Guide, Evil Wylie's BEA Party Guide and author blogs/websites)

Memorial Day Weekend Read-a-thon!

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Fri, 25 May 2012 12:00:00 +0000

All right guys, I'm behind on my reading, got a week or so before Book Expo w/ about a dozen books I want to read before then and...I'm done work early today with Monday off (thank you office job). So what am I to do with this time?

READ AS MUCH AS I CAN because I will not get this chance again until AFTER August (this summer is too crazy busy).

Here's what I hope to read:
Hemlock by Kathleen Peacock
Cold Kiss by Amy Garvey
Blood Rights by Kristen Painter
Shadowfell by Juliet Marillier

Book Review: Trance

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Thu, 24 May 2012 14:24:00 +0000

Print // Kindle // Kelly Meding

Fifteen years ago, Teresa “Trance” West was a skilled telepath and a proud member of the Ranger Corps. But ever since the Rangers were inexplicably rendered powerless at the climax of the devastating Meta War, she’s bounced from one dead-end job to another. Now her powers have reappeared just as mysteriously as they vanished— only they’re completely transformed and more potent than ever. And they’re threatening to destroy her.

Trance heads to Los Angeles to track down the surviving Rangers and discover who restored her powers—and why—but a phantom enemy is determined to kill them before they can reassemble. As they dodge his deadly attacks and come to terms with their new role as heroes, Trance and the rest of the team set out to annihilate the sinister madman . . . only to discover their own powers are his greatest weapons.

First let me clear up a few misleading things about the above 'official' summary: 1) Trance is 10 when she loses her powers. And 2) she is not that skilled, she is not a member of the Ranger Corps--she's a kid who is in training. Now then let's move on.

There's been a rise in superhero fiction over the last couple of years and I've enjoyed a lot of it. From Carrie Vaugn's thoughtful look at what happens when the world leaves you behind in AFTER THE GOLDEN AGE to Jennifer Estep's romantic comedies the 'Big Time' books or AJ Menden's 'Elite Hands of Justice' action romances and even more recently the 'Midnight Justice' books from Samhain Publishing--apparently superheroes are cool again. Which anyone who reads paranormal romances or urban fantasies knows that superheroes never really went out. Just instead of wearing skin tight costumes and running around with ridiculous sounding names they wore leather, boots and had snarky attitudes.

TRANCE is a book I've long had my eye on, but was wary to pick up. Meding's other urban fantasy series, Dreg City, doesn't really do much for me as a reader and that's been my whole experience with her writing. Look at that cover though! It stands out (even on my bookshelf) and begs to be read. I'm glad I gave in because from the very first chapter--when Teresa (aka Trance) is on the run with her classmates from a group of villains with overwhelming superiority--I was hooked.

I grew up on comic books that had heroes, and villains, becoming progressively darker until sometimes you couldn't tell the good guys from the bad guys (DC's Identity Crisis anyone?) and that's what the comic publishers thought the readers wanted. And I like that. As much as I like my Barry Allen squeaky-clean Silver Age comics, I'm a cynical, sarcastic, pessimistic person who doesn't believe that the good guys always win. TRANCE delivers me the perfect blend of both.

Teresa wants more to her life. She wants meaning, she wants acceptance, she wants answers as to why things happened. Even when she gets all (or most) of those answers, and she doesn't like them, she accepts them. She moves on. She doesn't let herself dwell on the dreams she had crashing down around her. She was pretty pathetic starting out, but she matured so much in this book. She became the leader she never thought she could be.

Its disturbing to read the first chapter. And some of the preceding chapters. Meding doesn't pull punches--her bad guys are bad guys. Drape their intentions however you like, the fact is they are brutal. The book doesn't really offer any platitudes in that regard--the entire thing is kind of a 'suck it up cupcake' mantra. Suck it up and move past the fear and death. Suck it up and fight so it doesn't happen again. Suck it up because you are a hero.

There was a lot of wtf moments, though when Spectre is finally revealed that's the biggest. The person's motivations, justifications, entire thought process is just so...wrong feeling. Coupled with the other on-screen moments, it was enough to make my stomach turn. How does a person get to that point in their lives? When does the mass murder of hundreds of people to prevent the potential mass murder of hundreds of people equal out? Not just bad guys either--this person sought total genocide no matter what.

Who thinks like that?

But hey that's what makes a book great--that guttural reaction to a character's actions, no matter how unlikely to happen in real life as they are. So Kelly bring on book 2, CHANGELING, I'm ready for the challenge.

Graphic Novel Review: Superman Earth One Vol 1

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Wed, 23 May 2012 15:36:00 +0000

Amazon // Mile High Comics

Set in an all-new continuity re-imagining DC's top heroes, EARTH ONE is a new wave of original, stand-alone graphic novels produced by the top writers and artists in the industry. The groundbreaking new line rockets into effect right here with the Super Hero who started it all – Superman!What would happen if the origin of The Man of Tomorrow were introduced today for the very first time? Return to Smallville and experience the journey of Earth's favorite adopted son as he grows from boy to Superman like you've never seen before!

I don't, by in large, read the 'Big Three' comics of the DC Universe because I don't often care about Superman, Batman or Wonder Woman. I'm more often interested in their sidekicks or enemies so I only touch upon their books when it involves them.

SUPERMAN: EARTH ONE is a different fish because J. Michael Straczynski is involved and I loved (and I do mean loved) his comic series RISING STARS from the early new millennium (back when I was so into comic books I spending hundreds of dollars a month on them). I trusted him not to give me squeaky-clean, 'gosh golly', do-gooder Clark Kent. And he didn't. He gave me a Clark who didn't know his place in the world, who wanted to succeed because he wanted to take care of his mother, who basically became a superhero because it gave him an opportunity to land the job he wanted at the Daily Planet.

Shane Davis, who does the art and was born in NJ (but I won't hold that against him), does a phenomenal job on the artwork in my opinion. Its striking, detailed when it needs to be and appropriately realistic enough to not make me wonder if everyone is made of elastic. There is a certain kind of 'pretty' to everything, but I'll forgive that (I read shoujo manga after all).

Since I had so little invested in the Superman mythos the more emo, less self-assured and confident Clark Kent didn't bother me as much as other fans. He wanted to feel bad for himself? Let him. He has every right to in this world--a world where he doesn't fit in, is under threat of being hunted, is possibly the only one of his kind (aka: alien) on the planet. And at least he's being emo over whether or not he should do as his parents want him to do (be happy, find a job he will enjoy) or to take the relatively easy street of doing something extraordinary (athlete, scientist, whatever) so he can take care of his family.

And then things go to hell in a hand basket and the choice is taken away from him.

Honestly I wish they'd gone with this as the reboot and not the...whatever it is they're publishing right now for him (I don't know, the uniform is...different). I'm looking forward to the second volume, as well as the Batman: Earth One book coming out later this year.

BEA Related: Fifty Shames of Earl Grey

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Tue, 22 May 2012 19:21:00 +0000

Come on how can you NOT want this on your bookshelf? I have...very strong opinions about the Fifty Shades of Grey...travesty that is so popular right now. And I have read it (my friend and I tore it apart together via AIM, and the contract was torn apart during a special session of my Contracts paralegal course) so I am allowed to have my strong opinions on the novel.

That being said as soon as I heard about this I wanted it. Soon as I read the excerpts from it I wanted it more. The moment I found out Shaffer was signing copies of it at Book Expo I rearranged my entire schedule to make sure I would have no excuse not to be in his line immediately. I like me a good parody (especially of bad books).

Official Blurb:

In Fifty Shames of Earl Grey, young, rich, and handsome tycoon Earl Grey has a dirty secret. Past the tacky waterbed, strobe light, and blacklight posters inside his "Room of Doom," he brings Anna, a naïve college student into his twisted world of, well, mostly naughty dialogue and light spanking. Anna is enthralled-after all, he's rich, and he has a habit of buying every company she's ever worked for (including Walmart) in an attempt to get close to her. But on the flipside, he's a moody bastard whose fifty shames constantly threaten to overwhelm her. Can Earl Grey and Anna ever have a normal life together? Or will his dark desires and constant smirking drive her over the edge? (from Amazon)

Release Date: ~~not today~~ oh not specific enough....July 2012
Linkage: EvilReads // BEA Earl Grey Teabagging Party (aka book signing)
Book Signing Info: Wednesday, June 6th from 4pm-5pm at booth 3604 (Perseus Books Group)

Book Review: A Night Like This

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Tue, 22 May 2012 14:00:00 +0000

Print // Kindle // Julia Quinn Homepage

Anne Wynter’s job as governess to three highborn young ladies can be a challenge – in a single week she finds herself hiding in a closet full of tubas, playing an evil queen in a play and tending to the wounds of the oh-so-dashing Earl of Winstead. After years of dodging unwanted advances, he's the first man who has truly tempted her, and it's getting harder and harder to remind herself that a governess has no business flirting with a nobleman.

Daniel Smythe-Smith might be in mortal danger, but that's not going to stop the young earl from falling in love. And when he spies a mysterious woman at his family's annual musicale, he vows to pursue her. But Daniel has an enemy, one who has vowed to see him dead. And when Anne is thrown into peril, he will stop at nothing to ensure their happy ending . .

The second book in the Smythe-Smith Quartet, we get the story of Anne Wynter (who in the first book was briefly mentioned having taken the place of Lady Sarah in the annual musicale) and Daniel Smythe-Smith (the exiled brother of Honoria's who returns at the end of the first book to basically find his sister being compromised by the best friend he had told to watch over her).

The above is all elaborated upon in the first chapter or so of the book as we see how Anne was unfortunately thrust into the role, Daniel stealing a kiss from her one moment, running off to get punched up by Marcus the next and then Anne taking care of him in the aftermath.

The best parts of this book are when Anne and Daniel are trading verbal sparring--as Anne points out at one point, its a bit like watching (or in this case reading) a tennis match as they volley double meanings and chiding retorts back and forth. The romance here stretches belief somewhat more--Daniel is practically tripping over his feet to get Anne to notice him even though he admits she's not an appropriate choice for him. And Anne vacillates between being exasperated by his attempts to woo her and terrified that she will succumb and ruin her future (which she has every experience with).

Interestingly there are multiple dangers to both Anne and Daniel. A mistake from Anne's past shows up and all but says he doesn't care who hurts (or kills) in his vengeance against her (and puts actions to words several times), while the reason of Daniel's three year exile keeps him on his toes. I hope we see more of Hugh--I think Quinn was laying that groundwork honestly and I won't be upset if he becomes a hero in one of the next books.

Like most of Quinn's books this is filled with humor as well as romance and if the humor sometimes distracts from the plot so be it--Anne's history is heartbreaking and more than anything I think she needed someone to distract her from it. Her young charges, cousins to Daniel, are lively and spirited. They weren't tiresome or wedged into the story at awkward moments.

The ending, at least as far as the wrap-up to the romance and the reactions from various people, was the one part I felt disconnected from. I can't believe that Anne's status can be so quickly overlooked by everyone. Daniel...well he never seemed to give a farthing anyhow, but his Aunt (Anne's employer) definitely made it clear how she felt and yet...no fall out? It felt glossed over too easily.

Graphic Novel Review: Womanthology

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Mon, 21 May 2012 14:18:00 +0000

Amazon // Womanthology Page

Womanthology is a large scale anthology comic showcasing the works of women in comics. It is created entirely by over 150 women of all experience levels. The purpose of the book is to show support for female creators in comics and media. There are multiple short stories, "how to"s & interviews with professionals, and features showcasing iconic female comic creators that have passed, such as Nell Brinkley and Tarpe Mills. A Kids & Teens section is also included, showcasing their work, and offering tips & tricks to help them prepare themselves for their future careers in comics.

While this isn't a perfect book, this is a book to be damned proud of. This isn't just an anthology of short comics and pin-ups with a glib theme of 'Women Empowerment' or a collection of stories that prove women are as cool as men (if not cooler). This is a book filled with stories about characters who face problems every girl goes through and yeah sometimes superpowers or magic helps to make things better, but it just as easily comes down to whether that young girl or woman is brave enough to embrace the ability to make a change.

Since there are so many stories and comics, I'll list out my top favorites, w/links when available for the creators:

Comics:
"SuperLESS Hero" (story by Kelly Thompson, art by Stephanie Hans)
Three girls, a giant octopus monster and a little boy who needs a hero. This is the story I was thinking of when I was telling my friend about how sometimes it doesn't take a costume and flashy powers to make a kid's day better. Its only 4 pages long, but its the perfect amount of space to show that small acts can mean just as much as big acts of heroism.

"Lady Powerpunch" (story and art by Renae De Liz, colorist Nei Ruffino)
Appearances (and appreciation) can be deceiving. This was probably my favorite comic in the entire book and its getting its own series so WAHOO. It helps that Nei Ruffino works for Zenescope (one of my favorite comics companies) and I can relate to how Claire is feeling throughout the story.

"The Spinster" (Penciller, Inker and Writer Ming Doyle, colorist Jordie Bellaire)
Some ladies have better things to do then having drinks some random guys at night okay? If I could be half as cool as Maude when I'm her age I'd be so lucky.

"Solace" (writer Jenn Corella, Penciller, Inker and Colorist Chrissie Zullo)
Sometimes you just have to take solace in what you were able to prevent no matter the cost. This is one of the few comics in the book that made me all teary-eyed...and I had to read twice to make sure I didn't miss a page.

"Destiny" (writer Raven Moore, artist Camilla D'errico, colors Alicia Fernandez and Letters Rachel Deering)
I want to give props to this comic mainly because it is GORGEOUS. The colors are beautiful, the drawing is wonderful (quasi-anime/fantasy) and come on, those guns are awesome. This is another one without a title however so I made one up.

"In Every Heart a Masterwork" (writer Gail Simone, Art Jean Kang, Letters Rachel Deering)
Never say a girl can't help her brother fix his comics. Aside from this being written by Gail Simone (love for eternity), I did this to my brother's comics once :whistles:

"Pink Elephants" (writer, penciller, inker, colorist, letterer Ellen T. Crenshaw)
Somethings are hard to control or explain, they just drive you insane until someone makes you think of something else. I had a very similar problem (still do even as an adult) when I was a kid. Something would nag and nag at me, making it impossible to focus on anything else. I felt so bad for Lyddie.

Pin-ups:
"Super Heroine Zodiac" by Lois Van Barrle (pg. 50)
There is no actual title for this pin-up, but that's what it looks like. Super-heroine versions of the chinese Zodiac. I like how perky Aries (which I am) is, since we're not typically seen as perky people XD

This isn't to say the other dozens of stories and pin-ups are worth anything less mind you, these just struck me the most.

In addition to the comics, pin-ups, pro-tip blurbs throughout the pages, mini-comic 'RPG' (by Stacie Ponder), creator blurbs and random facts about the Womanthology Kickstarter project, there's a section dedicated to the 'next gen' of comic professionals (kids and teens), a how to create comics primer and articles, creator interviews (there's one w/Colleen Doran! Devin Grayson! Nicola Scott! Wendy Pini!) and a 'Women of the Past' section about the women who made comic book history.

I admit the price is a bit steep ($50 retail, $32 on Amazon), when you factor in everything you're getting for that price its really not and more then that you'll be introduced to creators you may never have known about otherwise. Its great to flip through with friends, especially creative types, as a way to see the scope of diversity out there right now.

I look forward to the next Womanthology project "Space", a five issue series picked up by IDW that will get a graphic novel ~~which I will own~~ and following along with the new creators I've found.

Sunday Sendup 19

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Sun, 20 May 2012 13:10:00 +0000

So here's my week...

Finished:
Womanthology by various

Trance by Kelly Meding

Started Reading:
Big Sky Country by Linda Lael Miller

Review:
After the Abduction by Sabrina Jeffries
The Witch is Back by HP Mallory
Big Sky Country by Linda Lael Miller
Foxfire by Karen Kincy (Netgalley)
Little Mischief by Amelia Grey (Netgalley)
At Last by Jill Shalvis (Netgalley)
Demon Eyes by Scott Tracey (Netgalley)
Dragon Age Volume 1 by David Gaider (Netgalley)

Won or Bought:
You're So Cool volume 5
Homecoming by Scott Tracey (Kindle)
The Bro-Magnet by Lauren Baratz-Logsted (Kindle - free)
Superman: Earth One volume 1 by J. Michael Straczynski and Shane Davis
Good Eats: Kitchen Classics DVD set
Halo Legends DVD
Sigur Ros Takk... CD

Lesson Learned This Week: I like reorganizing!

USA Network Superfan Event!

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Thu, 17 May 2012 14:24:00 +0000

Thanks to the awesome Powers that Be, Tegs and I will be spending the afternoon in New York City attending the USA Network's Superfan Event!

Follow us on twitter (@PRationality and @TeganCenni) to check out as we post pics of the event and tweet about what's happening with our favorite stars from Psych, Burn Notice, White Collar, Royal Pains, Covert Affairs and more!

Book Review by Tegan: Starters

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Wed, 16 May 2012 15:28:00 +0000

Kindle // Print // Lissa Price

HER WORLD IS CHANGED FOREVER

Callie lost her parents when the Spore Wars wiped out everyone between the ages of twenty and sixty. She and her little brother, Tyler, go on the run, living as squatters with their friend Michael and fighting off renegades who would kill them for a cookie. Callie's only hope is Prime Destinations, a disturbing place in Beverly Hills run by a mysterious figure known as the Old Man.

He hires teens to rent their bodies to Enders—seniors who want to be young again. Callie, desperate for the money that will keep her, Tyler, and Michael alive, agrees to be a donor. But the neurochip they place in Callie's head malfunctions and she wakes up in the life of her renter, living in her mansion, driving her cars, and going out with a senator's grandson. It feels almost like a fairy tale, until Callie discovers that her renter intends to do more than party—and that Prime Destinations' plans are more evil than Callie could ever have imagined. . . .

When I first picked up Starters, I honestly had no idea what to expect. I'm the worst kind of reader, in that, I tend to read a book based on the cover art. Starters' cover art was especially eye catching. After a quick skim of the summary I proceeded to read, and let me tell you, I was hooked. It was disturbing, but in a good way. From the first scene when Callie enters Prime Destinations--apprehensive and bedraggled against the sterile aesthetic and overly smiley staff--my skin crawled. I felt as if I was there too.

It seemed that all the other scenes to follow were just as descriptive. I also enjoyed that the "Enders" or old people that rented the bodies, were actually old. I like to believe that when I reach the spry age of 90+ that I'll still be as feisty and cognitive as the older people portrayed in this novel.

The one thing that needed a little work was the character development. Not a whole lot, just a little tweaking. I liked the chemistry between Callie and Michael, found the dynamic between her brother Tyler a little played out and the scenes with Blake were awkward. Michael was like the doesn't-know-he's-hot hometown hero, a personal favorite in character types.

Tyler was a little too helpless for my liking. I understand that Callie needed a strong enough conviction to go through with all of this, but I would have preferred if he was just young and not sick. As for Blake, their courtship was way too fast especially under such strange circumstances. If they had gotten to where they were at the end of this book, at some point in the middle of the next book I would've been more pleased. However, I still immensely enjoyed Starters and would definitely recommend it for those of you that enjoy sci-fi.. I'm eagerly await the second book in the series!

e-Book Review: Ruined by Rumor

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Tue, 15 May 2012 14:22:00 +0000

Kindle // Carina Press

After waiting five years for her fiancé to return from the war and marry her, Roxana Langley has been jilted! She may have longed for excitement, but this was not what she had in mind...

Who could possibly throw over a woman as beautiful and vivacious as Roxana? Certainly not Alex Winslow, the Earl of Ayersley, who has spent years trying in vain to forget his unrequited love. When he learns she's been abandoned by her cad of a fiancé, he finds himself offering a shoulder for her to cry on. Comfort soon turns into a passionate kiss—and scandal when they are caught in an embrace.

Only one thing will save Roxana from certain ruination: marriage to the earl. The match may save her reputation, but responsible, tongue-tied Ayersley is a far cry from her dashing former fiancé. She's convinced Ayersley is merely doing his duty...while he's sure Roxana is still in love with another man. Are they trading one disaster for another?

Dear Ayersley, I love you. You are possibly my ideal man and if its not too weird sounding, please come to life and marry me. Love, Lexie

Its quite possible that Everett managed to write a hero so ideally suited to my tastes and beliefs in what a man should be like that, that's she psychic. Or been reading my teen years diaries. Which now that I think about it I don't know where those are...

Seriously however, RUINED BY RUMOR is the type of historical romance I craved and adored as a teen. Its got a bit of sexiness, its got a hero who is just so in love with his heroine that he can't SPEAK in front of her (except apparently in quotes and judicial reforms...), a heroine who is a ninny and a villainous sort of fellow who deserved the layout he got.

Now admittedly I grew rather irritated with their stubborn lack of communication. Its been a long time since I found a pair so uniquely obstinate in their belief that the other must hate them, with relatively circumstantial evidence. I do give them a pass because in Ayersley's case he's got a heavy case of inferiority and guilt riding him (not to mention being so desperately in love with Roxana he can't see straight) and Roxana, as previously mentioned, is a complete ninny.

A loveable, tries to do her best but gets really bad advice quite often, ninny though.

As for the cad that left Roxana, he spent entirely too much time engaged to her, not enough time being pummeled and quite frankly I am SHOCKED and AMAZED he did not get himself SHOT. Seriously. If even half the stuff circulated about him is true, he should be on every father's most wanted rake in all of Christendom.

If its hard to tell, I was greatly entertained by this book. Its not a terribly serious book, or intent on pushing some sort of agenda. Its just an earnest romance between a couple who should never leave their bedroom.

Sunday Sendup 18

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Sun, 13 May 2012 15:07:00 +0000

So here's my week...

Finished:
Dark Frost by Jennifer Estep
Womanthology by various
Blade of Moonlight by Kimberly Dean

Started Reading:

Lady Alexandra's Excellent Adventure by Sophie Barnes
Transcendence by CJ Omololu

Review:
Transcendence by CJ Omololu

Won or Bought:
Womanthology by various (print)
Sailor Moon volume 5 by Naoko Takeuchi (Black lady!)
1.4 by Mike A. Lancaster (Kindle - how did I not know Human.4 had a sequel!?)

Lesson Learned This Week: Not really good at that paying attention thing...

BEA Post: BlogWorld and New Media Panels

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Sat, 12 May 2012 13:17:00 +0000

As most attendees from last year know, the Javits plays host to two Expo's during Book Expo--our very own Book Expo and also BlogWorld, which is as the banner proclaims a New Media Expo. It explores the growing use of blogs, social media and sites like youtube to expand or build businesses. There are exhibitors, panels and discussions to help people do better.

I want to check some of them out. Last year I was so busy with BEA I didn't have a chance to do very much outside of it or look into things outside of the Floor, but this year I'm going to try harder.

Poisoned Rationality will be turning 4 as of October of this year--four. That's a milestone in my opinion (though maybe not others) and I am looking to expand what I can do with my site.

A full list of panels can be found here, but I encourage everyone to look and see if there's anything of interest. You can always improve is an important lesson to learn and take to heart so you don't become stagnant.

Below you'll find the panels I'm interested in attending for various reasons :) Its a tab on my BEA Masterlist Schedule in fact!

**PLEASE NOTE: the BEA pass will only allow you onto the Exhibit Floor, in order to attend the Conference Sessions listed below, or on the schedule, you have to register for that separately and pay for that separately.**

Tuesday
2:30-3:30          How To Build a Community of Fanatics                    Room 1A08
2:30-3:30          Tips&Techniques for a Successful Fan Podcast       Room 1A15
3:45-4:45          Four Simple Steps for Editing Your Own Writing    Room 1A06

Wednesday
11:30-:12:30    Why All Bloggers Should Be Podcasting                  Room 1A15

Thursday
9:00-10:00       Podcasting: Lessons from a Noob                             Room 1A16
10:15-11:15     Podcasting 101 Part 1                                                 Room 1A16
11:30-12:30     Podcasting 101 Part 2                                                 Room 1A16

As you can see I am interesting the Podcasting panels the most--I think I would like to add this component to my blog at some point in the future, especially once I am settled in my career as a paralegal.

As I said it is a separate fee to attend the conference sessions. A $300 (before May 15th, $400 after) fee in fact. With my trip to Canada in August, I'm not sure if I'll be able to afford the pass, but I'm going to try!

Book Review: Unraveling

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Fri, 11 May 2012 14:47:00 +0000

Kindle // Print // Elizabeth Norris Webpage

Two days before the start of her junior year, seventeen-year-old Janelle Tenner is hit by a pickup truck and killed—as in blinding light, scenes of her life flashing before her, and then nothing. Except the next thing she knows, she's opening her eyes to find Ben Michaels, a loner from her high school whom Janelle has never talked to, leaning over her. And even though it isn't possible, she knows—with every fiber of her being—that Ben has somehow brought her back to life.

But her revival, and Ben's possible role in it, is only the first of the puzzles that Janelle must solve. While snooping in her FBI agent father's files for clues about her accident, she uncovers a clock that seems to be counting down to something—but to what? And when someone close to Janelle is killed, she can no longer deny what's right in front of her: Everything that's happened—the accident, the murder, the countdown clock, Ben's sudden appearance in her life—points to the end of life as she knows it. And as the clock ticks down, she realizes that if she wants to put a stop to the end of the world, she's going to need to uncover Ben's secrets—and keep from falling in love with him in the process.

This book was surprising in a lot of ways for me. The premise interested me, as did some of the reviews I saw around the web, but honestly I kept putting it off. The first chapter didn't grab me initially so I kept placing it lower and lower on my reading pile until I finally realized it was out in stores so I should get a move on.

I'm really glad I did. It was gripping, tense and (most of the time) fast paced. The kind of back and forth narrative threw me originally, but I got used to it over time. The book is set up much like the 'countdown' Janelle is trying to solve. So much so that entire days go by without any chapters, or several chapters bunched together form half a day story wise.

Ben, Elijah and Reid reminded me of the universe-hopping Quinn and the crew of the original season of the 90's scifi show SLIDERS. Its more or less how they ended up trans versing time and space--though Quinn's crew were older and had a better idea how to get home.

I thought it was a great touch to have Janelle be such a solid rock in her dysfunctional family. I think a lot of young adults can relate to that in this world of one parent households and the divorce rate so high. Though Janelle has both parents, its almost as if she really only has half of one as her father is absent or so involved in his work he's not often able to play the parent role. And she pulled it off. In the short time we're in her life, Janelle's predominant thought process was almost always 'Is my mom taken care of, is my brother okay, is my father working himself too hard'.

This isn't to say that Norris makes her the biggest martyr ever. Janelle is quite aware that her responsibilities weigh her down and has a healthy amount of bitterness towards her parents for not stepping up to the plate, but she doesn't let that get in the way. Janelle wears responsibility comfortably and in a lot of ways she looks for ways to be more responsible.

The story feels a bit fragmented though. Janelle deals with so many big issues in her life--her mother's illness, her father's increasingly dangerous job, what happened when she died, unresolved issues with her ex-best friend, unresolved issue with what broke them apart, the end of the world, her feelings for Ben, his mysterious connection to everything--it made the story disjointed at times.

We'd go from Janelle investigating the latest crime scene of radiation victims, to her contemplating how to ditch her not quite steady Nick at a party, then to her dealing with her mom's mental instability, back to the crime scene investigation on to her feelings for Ben...I think Norris was trying to illustrate how even a big issue like her experience with dying doesn't disrupt normal everyday things. But the normal stuff stood out like a sore thumb.

I'm at odds with if Norris makes another book. The ending suited the book I feel and I'd be wary of destroying the resolution found at the end. Then again, I want more. So...yeah. Not sure XD

e-Book Review: Blade of Moonlight

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Thu, 10 May 2012 12:40:00 +0000

Kindle // Samhain Store // Kimberly Dean

"In a world of darkness, she is his light."

A "Midnight Justice" Story

It's a dark and stormy night, and Luna Masters is in trouble. Buttoned-up court reporter by day, by night she fights crime as Luminescence, drawing power from the moon. No moon, no power...and she's about to pay with her life.

As her consciousness dims, a man steps from the shadows. But he's no savior. It's Scythe, a villain whose reputation for evil is legend. When she awakens, at first she's surprised to be alive. Then enraged to find herself tied to his bed. Naked.

Scythe is livid. A minor superhero like Luna has no business on his turf, and he plans to enjoy administering punishment, Yet somewhere in the night, pain turns into pleasure...then into something wicked and sexy that shakes them both to the core.

Though Scythe warns her away, Luna's passion for justice draws her back into the dark, to her masked lover's side. For good, or evil? Only the dawn will tell...

Warning: "Pow " In the clash of good versus evil, villains don't play nicely. "Bam " When captured, superheroines often get tied up. "Kablooie " Hot sex may cause mayhem with your e-reader.

I really like the covers to the Midnight Justice books, they're very striking and just enough superhero-y to catch my attention. Though, and this is the only time I will ever say this, the girl on the cover is WAY too covered up. Luna tends to run around in a bikini and cape...to help her powers of course. I can't think of a single time she is covered in that much clingy clothing.

That aside.

I'll warn ahead of time that the first time Scythe and Luna get it on, its a matter of questionable consent. Plus, and slightly more importantly, Scythe more or less implies that it was always going to go down that way--he just didn't expect to enjoy it so much. (yeah so he was going to use sex as a tool to make her frightened. oiy vey).

On the one hand Dean retcons this later on by having the eleventh hour 'I was always attracted to you!' confessions so big in romances, but on the other--just...no. There's also the fact that Luna would wear her skimpy boy shorts, leather bra and knee high screw me boots because they made her feel sexy. Which Scythe made dirty by telling her that it was true and she felt guilty about ever after.

Truth told my feelings swayed back and forth constantly in this book. If you take out the questionable consent sex in the beginning and Scythe's blithe acknowledgement that he was going to screw her to make her afraid no matter what, the rest of the book is pretty fantastic. Its a bit rushed feeling as far as character development, with wedged in 'shared pasts' to kind of fluff it out, but otherwise its fun and touching at times.

Though I do have to wonder at Scythe's preoccupation with getting Luna as naked as possible as often as possible.

BEA Post: Children's Galley Offerings

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Wed, 09 May 2012 12:10:00 +0000

With the release of the (public access) version of Publisher Weekly's Galley Grab Children's article, I've come upon some books I hadn't known about! You can see the whole article here to see if any others peak your interest :) For the purposes of this list I'll mention the books I don't already have listed on my schedule, since why repeat myself right? My comments are in the brackets in italics, links lead to GoodReads.

Beautiful Lies by Jessica Warman (Walker). A teenager suffers serious physical traumas and realizes they are actually happening to her missing twin sister. (twins! I love twins!)

The Blessed by Tonya Hurley (Simon & Schuster) launches a supernatural romance series that reimagines the martyrdoms of three saints, by the author of ghostgirl. (I want you all to read the GoodReads blurb now. Sound the same at all?)

Confessions of a Murder Suspect by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro (Little, Brown). The initial entry in Patterson’s first mystery series for teens finds a wealthy girl accused of killing her parents. (I'm not a fan of Patterson, but I've become fond of mysteries lately...)

Deviants by Maureen McGowan (Amazon Children’s Publishing). Book one of the Dust Chronicles is set in a post-apocalyptic world in which a 16-year-old orphan with mutated DNA must protect her younger brother. (I like the mutated DNA part!)

Falling Kingdoms by Morgan Rhodes (Penguin/Razorbill). The paranormal romance and urban fantasy author Michelle Rowen takes a pseudonym for the launch of a high fantasy series. (High Fantasy! Also I like Rowen)

Iron Hearted Violet by Kelly Barnhill, illus. by Iacopo Bruno (Little, Brown) tells of an unusual princess and the last dragon in existence. (Dragon! Princess! Oh my!)

The Last Dragonslayer by Jasper Fforde (HMH/Harcourt). The author of the Thursday Next mystery series starts a fantasy trilogy with a modern twist. (I hate the cover for the US version, I like the UK version)

Flock by Wendy Delsol (Candlewick) concludes the Stork trilogy, a supernatural romance in which the heroine taps into ancient Norse secrets.(I really enjoy this series. Norse myth yo)

Angelfall by Susan Ee (Amazon Children’s Publishing) begins the apocalyptic fantasy series Penryn & the End of Days. (Apocalyptic fantasy! Sure why not?)

The Dark Unwinding by Sharon Cameron (Scholastic Press) is a steampunk spy story – with a hefty helping of romance – set on a traditional English estate. (steampunk spy and english estate! YES PLEASE.)

The Innocents by Lili Peloquin (Penguin/Razorbill). In the initial outing for a new series, a blend of romance and gothic mystery, two sisters fight to belong in a town built on secrets and lies. (gothic. sold.)

Origin by Jessica Khoury (Penguin/Razorbill). In this YA action-romance, a girl engineered to be the start of an immortal race escapes the lab she was raised in. (Yes. Action and immortal race.)

Splintered by A.G. Howard (Abrams/Amulet) follows a young descendant of Alice Liddell to an ultra-creepy Wonderland. (All over this Alice in Wonderland inheritor.)

Undead by Kirsty McKay (Scholastic/Chicken House). A class ski trip turns into a zombie splatter-fest. (Zombies yes.)

Book Review: Range of Ghosts

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Tue, 08 May 2012 12:33:00 +0000

Print // Kindle // Elizabeth Bear Webpage

Temur, grandson of the Great Khan, is walking away from a battlefield where he was left for dead. All around lie the fallen armies of his cousin and his brother, who made war to rule the Khaganate. Temur is now the legitimate heir by blood to his grandfather’s throne, but he is not the strongest. Going into exile is the only way to survive his ruthless cousin.

Once-Princess Samarkar is climbing the thousand steps of the Citadel of the Wizards of Tsarepheth. She was heir to the Rasan Empire until her father got a son on a new wife. Then she was sent to be the wife of a Prince in Song, but that marriage ended in battle and blood. Now she has renounced her worldly power to seek the magical power of the wizards. These two will come together to stand against the hidden cult that has so carefully brought all the empires of the Celadon Highway to strife and civil war through guile and deceit and sorcerous power.

I won't lie, though I've heard of Elizabeth Bear I haven't read her. I've had myself chocked full of other authors and books that sometimes if its not thrust into my face I won't notice it. TOR however was kind enough to send me a review copy of Range of Ghosts and I will thank them until I am blue in the face for it. I've been lucky lately--asian influenced fantasy is becoming much more prominent and readily available, something I wished for a lot as a child/young teen. Other than Sasha Miller's Ladylord and Raymond Feist's Riftwar Cycle series (especially the Empire trilogy with Janny Wurts) there wasn't many options for me.

Firstly the cover is beautiful, the colors are deep and nuanced, the hanging moon from the chain, the shadows and eyes peeking out in the corner...its very eye-catching. Way to go Donato, you got my attention again. I would have picked this up in the bookstore while browsing likely, so there's a lot of win here.

This is a novel that is lush, evocative and fantastical. Bear excels at bringing the smallest detail to her world, both real and imagined in this case. The shifting sky from one land to the next, the Great Khan, warrior nomad who conquered nations, the not overly complicated system of magic...they all round out to create a world conflicted by what it wants.

One of the strengths of the book is that while it follows a linear progression of time and events, the characters themselves feel like they're living it. The happiness, the sorrows, the plain dullness of routine--the characters all live through this constantly. Its not a wild coaster ride from one cover to the next in other words.

I didn't feel a connection to the characters however--is that odd? Temur's way of thinking and personality felt off, while Samarkar rubbed me the wrong way almost every time she was on the page. I think that's a personal problem though--Bear's secondary characters pleased me well enough. Samarkar did get some of the best...not really lines, but descriptions of her actions in the book, while Temur got some of the best one-line observations.

I'm interested to see where this goes, to see how the ending impacts their lives and their world. I'm particularly fond of evil cults in fantasy settings for some reason and as this is obviously the set up for the sequel I hope that the second book holds up to the first.

BEA Post: Books I'm Excited For

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Mon, 07 May 2012 13:11:00 +0000

Book Expo America is that time of year when industry professionals, reviewers, librarians and bloggers all get together to find out about the up and comers of the Book Industry. Books of all types are featured during this three day event and here's just a sample of those I'm looking forward to in no particular order.

Sixteen-year-old Ember Morrow is promised to a group called Conatus after one of their healers saves her mother's life. Once she arrives, Ember finds joy in wielding swords, learning magic, and fighting the encroaching darkness loose in the world. She also finds herself falling in love with her mentor, the dashing, brooding, and powerful Barrow Hess. When the knights realize Eira, one of their leaders, is dabbling in dark magic, Ember and Barrow must choose whether to follow Eira into the nether realm or to pledge their lives to destroying her and her kind.

Why?: While I had my issues with the Nightshade Trilogy, the one issue I did not have is the world in which Cremer set the books in. I was fascinated by it, so this 'prequel' series will hopefully live up to my expectations and not leave me cursing the main character once more.

Marianne Daventry will do anything to escape the boredom of Bath and the amorous attentions of an unwanted suitor. So when an invitation arrives from her twin sister, Cecily, to join her at a sprawling country estate, she jumps at the chance. Thinking she’ll be able to relax and enjoy her beloved English countryside while her sister snags the handsome heir of Edenbrooke, Marianne finds that even the best laid plans can go awry.

From a terrifying run-in with a highwayman to a seemingly harmless flirtation, Marianne finds herself embroiled in an unexpected adventure filled with enough romance and intrigue to keep her mind racing. Will she be able to rein in her traitorous heart, or will a mysterious stranger sweep her off her feet? Fate had something other than a relaxing summer in mind when it sent Marianne to Edenbrooke

Why?: I saw this one while perusing the BEA website and it struck me as an interesting read. I'm big fan of historical romances and this one sounds right up my alley.

And their doom comes swiftly.

It was supposed to be the weekend of their lives—an exclusive house party on Henry Island. Best friends Meg and Minnie each have their reasons for being there (which involve T.J., the school’s most eligible bachelor) and look forward to three glorious days of boys, booze and fun-filled luxury.

But what they expect is definitely not what they get, and what starts out as fun turns dark and twisted after the discovery of a DVD with a sinister message: Vengeance is mine.

Suddenly people are dying, and with a storm raging, the teens are cut off the from the outside world. No electricity, no phones, no internet, and a ferry that isn’t scheduled to return for two days. As the deaths become more violent and the teens turn on each other, can Meg find the killer before more people die? Or is the killer closer to her than she could ever imagine?

Why? Better question is why not? This makes me think of two of my favorite murder mysteries--Harper's Island and And Then There Were None. I want this. I want to read it and love it to pieces.

Coming down from the mountain to a new life in the city seems a thrill beyond imagining. When Miri and her friends from Mount Eskel set off to help the future princess Britta prepare for her royal wedding, she is happy about her chance to attend school in the capital city.

There, Miri befriends students who seem so sophisticated and exciting...until she learns that they have some frightening plans. They think that Miri will help them, that she should help them. Soon Miri finds herself torn between loyalty to the princess and her new friends’ ideas, between an old love and a new crush, and between her small mountain home and the bustling city.

Picking up where Princess Academy left off, this incredible stand-alone story celebrates the joys of friendship, the delight of romance, and the fate of a beloved fairy tale kingdom

Why? My very first BEA, way back in 2007, I met Shannon Hale. She was the first author I met at the Expo in fact (I need to find that awesome picture of us together). Now 5 years later, I think its perfect to meet her again.

Ensign Andrew Dahl has just been assigned to the Universal Union Capital Ship Intrepid, flagship of the Universal Union since the year 2456. It’s a prestige posting,and Andrew is thrilled all the more to be assigned to the ship’s Xenobiology laboratory.

Life couldn’t be better . . . until Andrew begins to pick up on the fact that (1) every Away Mission involves some kind of lethal confrontation with alien forces, (2) the ship’s captain, its chief science officer, and the handsome Lieutenant Kerensky always survive these confrontations, and (3) at least one low-ranked crew member is, sadly, always killed. Not surprisingly, a great deal of energy below decks is expended on avoiding, at all costs, being assigned to an Away Mission. Then Andrew stumbles on information that completely transforms his and his colleagues’ understanding of what the starship Intrepid really is . . . and offers them a crazy, high-risk chance to save their own lives.

Why? More than this book (of which I have an ARC of, the hardcover on pre-order for and am getting the audiobook for) I want to meet the man. His blog, Whatever, is a reading highlight for my day and his book, Your Hate Mail Will Be Graded is one of my favorite wtf-genre books.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction
The Segment by Genevieve Valentine
After the Cure by Carrie Ryan
Valedictorian by N.K. Jemisin
Visiting Nelson by Katherine Langrish
All I Know of Freedom by Carol Emshwiller
The Other Elder by Beth Revis
The Great Game at the End of the World by Matthew Kressel
Reunion by Susan Beth Pfeffer
Faint Heart by Sarah Rees Brennan
Blood Drive by Jeffrey Ford
Reality Girl by Richard Bowes
Hw th'Irth Wint Wrong by Hapless Joey @ homeskool.guv by Gregory Maguire
Rust With Wings by Steven Gould
The Easthound by Nalo Hopkinson
Gray by Jane Yolen
Before by Carolyn Dunn
Fake Plastic Trees by Caitlin R. Kiernan
You Won't Feel a Thing by Garth Nix
The Marker by Cecil Castellucci

Why? Look at that table of contents. I dare you to say 'There's no one I like listed'. NK Jemisin? Jane Yolen? Beth Revis? Carrie Ryan? COME ON PEOPLE THIS IS REAL.

So? What books are you looking forward to? Need some help? Check out my BEA12 list over at Goodreads--it lists all the books currently on the Book Expo autographing schedule and will be continually updated throughout the month!

Sunday Sendup 17

noreply@blogger.com (Lexie) — Sun, 06 May 2012 12:29:00 +0000

So here's my week...BEST WEEK EVER. Of all time.

Finished:
Redshirts by John Scalzi
Unraveling by Elizabeth Norris

Started Reading:
To Marry an English Lord by Gail MacCoil and Carol Wallace

Review:
Redshirts by John Scalzi (omg yes yes yes)
Blackwood by Gwenda Bond
The Sweetest Dark by Shana Abe (Edelweiss)
Of Magic And Engineering by Lyn Brittan (NOR)

Won or Bought:
Love Knows No Bounds anthology (Kindle)
A Lady of High Regard by Tracie Peterson (Kindle - free)
Wildblossom by Cynthia Wright (Kindle - free)
Bloody Little Secrets by Karly Kirkpatrick (Kindle - free)
Meeting Destiny by Nancy Straight (Kindle - free)
A Scandalous Charade by Ava Stone (Kindle - free)
Every Last Kiss by Courtney Cole (Kindle - Free)
Shadow Play by Erin Kellison (Kindle)
A Job From Hell by Jayde Scott (Kindle)
Die For Me w/bonus material by Amy Plum (Kindle)
Breaking Bad by Jodi Redford (Kindle)
The Assassin and the Underworld by Sarah J. Maas (Kindle)
To Marry an English Lord by Gail MacCoil and Carol Wallace (Kindle)
Obsidian by Jennifer L. Armentrout (new version)
The Killing Moon by NK Jemisin
30 Rock Season 5 DVD

Lesson Learned This Week: If your personal life is going REALLY GOOD, your work life will SUCK suddenly.