Reflections of a Bookaholic

More Book Closets

2013-05-18T11:00:00.000-05:00

Source: shoppingcandy.blogspot.com via Jasmine on Pinterest

Remember the other book closet? This one gives the other one a run for its money. They just changed the door. If only there were 5 closets in a room. Le Sigh.

Don't remember the other book closet? Here's a reminder.

I Feel Guilty For Not Loving This Book

2013-05-11T11:00:00.000-05:00

Source: thefoxisblack.com via Misty on Pinterest

Which books do you feel that you should love/like but don't. Be honest. I won't judge. Well... unless you say Gone with the Wind. And if you say Gone with the Wind, it'll be okay. Really.

Review: To Katie with Love

2013-05-07T21:00:00.000-05:00

To Katie with Love by Erica Lucke Dean
Genre: Romance, Chick-Lit
Pages: 225 (ebook)
Source: Red Adept Publishing
Author's Website | Pinterest | Wattpad
Buy it: Kindle | B&N

Description:

Banker Katie James has a serious thing for romance novels. She’d almost rather settle for a fictional boyfriend than risk her heart on a flesh-and-blood man. Besides, the only real guy she’s remotely interested in is her rich, unattainable client, the mysterious Cooper Maxwell. Looking less like the ultra-conservative man she knows and more like a drop-dead sexy character from one of her books, Cooper crashes Katie’s 29th birthday party. But one too many drinks lands Katie in uncharted territory… Cooper’s bedroom! Drunk on love, Katie dives headfirst into the relationship only to discover that Cooper is keeping secrets… dangerous ones. As if things couldn’t get worse, her meddling mother makes a surprise visit, digging up a whole new set of problems. Who would have guessed having an assassin for a boyfriend would be the least of her worries?

My Rating:

My Review:

Katie James finds the perfect guy in Cooper Maxwell. He's handsome rich and has been secretly in love with her for a year. Katie falls head-over-heels but soon finds that Cooper has too many secrets. Getting few answers, she attempts to discover Cooper's secrets on her own leading to a few quirky situations. Then Katie's mom shows up and adventures occur at work.

The best part of this read was the last 25 pages or so. The rest was mildly entertaining at best and irritating at its worst. My biggest issue is that it took till about page 100 for the conflict to pop up. Until then we get lots of insta-love and a lot of back and forth where nothing really happens. Characters run into each other, fall in love, and go to work (at least Katie does). Even when Katie is at work, nothing really happens. Things progress a little better as soon as Katie starts to wonder about Cooper's job. The conclusions she jumps to is a bit flimsy for my taste. The irritating mom component didn't entertain me either. Or maybe the problem is that Cooper was too perfect and too nice that he didn't seem real. I enjoyed the end because it was unexpected and liked that Cooper's secret was actually a reasonable secret. I could understand why he needed to keep it a secret and I found his secret pretty fun. For me, this read needed better character and plot development to make this one entertaining and remotely believable. Overall, the end prevented this from being a complete wash for me.

Review: The Roots of the Olive Tree

2013-05-06T20:56:00.001-05:00

Meet the Keller family, five generations of firstborn women living together in the same house on a secluded olive grove int he Sacramento Valley of Northern California. Anna, the family matriarch, is 112 and determined to become the oldest person in the world. Strong in mind and firm in body, she rules Hill House, the family home she shares with her daughter Bets, granddaughter Callie, great-granddaughter Deb, and great-great-granddaughter Erin.
While the Keller women are bound by blood, living together has not always been asy. And it is about to become more complicated now that Erin, the youngest, is back, alone and pregnant, after two years abroad with an opera company. Her return and the arrival of a geneticist who has come to study the family's unusual longevity ignites explosive emotions that these women have kept buried and uncovers revelations that will shake them all to their roots.

My Rating:

My Review:

In Roots of the Olive Tree we follow five women as the navigate their life's challenges and secrets. Anna, the matriarch, simply wants to live long enough to be the oldest person alive. When a geneticist arrives looking to discover the secret to both their longevity and their good health, she withholds perhaps the biggest secret of all. Bets, Anna's daughter, keeps the secrets and soothes the hearts of everyone but her own daughter. Callie, Bet's daughter, lives a life of emptiness. After a airplane crash that changes Callie's life forever, Callie relies on prescription pills to get her through life. Deb, Callie's daughter, has been in prison for the last twenty years wanting to be free to be with her daughter. And finally, Erin, Deb's daughter, finds herself with an unplanned pregnancy and a void from growing up without her parents. The women grow up and older together but separate as they don't always understand the choices of the others. Amid a story about generations of women, we find an understated history of the importance of the olive tree to the Keller women.

It's very difficult to describe and review a book such as this, but I enjoyed every turn of the page. I didn't love all of the women but I loved the premise. I loved that Anna was 112 years old and that her perspective and history contrasted with Erin's 22 year old life and decisions. Every time I opened the book, I never really know what would happen next. Everything happened in a quite way. Even major events seemed written to be understated and simple. Sometimes I had to reread a paragraph to ensure I really did read it right. Every few chapters or so we'd see the next part of the story told from a different point of view until we had traveled the story through the lens of all the women. I liked this method but not all of the characters were created equal so I enjoyed some perspectives more than others. Additionally, each switch in perspective also corresponded in a jump in time. This felt unnecessary and I started to feel like I was just being moved along. Each character usually ended on some dramatic note, yet the reader didn't get to pick up where the character left off. It left me feeling unsatisfied. The historical aspect and flashbacks were one of my favorite parts of this read.

Overall, I enjoyed the premise and felt like this read stands out leading to an enjoyable reads. It certainly could have been more fleshed out but I'd still recommend it.

Not a Book

2013-05-04T11:00:00.000-05:00

Source: bing.com via Hannah on Pinterest

This is not a book but I just wanted to say that this is one of the best movies ever! That is all.

Review: Wicked Appetite (Audiobook)

2013-04-30T22:00:00.000-05:00

Life in Marblehead has had a pleasant predictability, until Diesel arrives. Rumor has it that a collection of priceless ancient relics representing the Seven Deadly Sins have made their way to Boston’s North Shore. Partnered with pastry chef Lizzie Tucker, Diesel bullies and charms his way through historic Salem to track them down—and his criminal mastermind cousin Gerewulf Grimorie. The black-haired, black-hearted Wulf is on the hunt for the relic representing gluttony. Caught in a race against time, Diesel and Lizzie soon find out that more isn’t always better, as they battle Wulf and the first of the deadly sins.

With delectable characters and non-stop thrills that have made Janet Evanovich a household name, Wicked Appetite will leave you hungry for more.

My Rating:

My Review:

Lizzie spends her days making amazing cupcakes and lives alone in an old home inherited from her Great Aunt Ophelia. Her life soon turns upside down when "Wulf" Grimorie arrives on her doorstep looking for an ancient relic that will help him accomplish his evil deeds. He seems to believe that Lizzie is the key to finding this relic. Diesel hopes to keep the relic out of the hands of Wulf which means he also needs Lizzie so that he can find them first. Diesel and Lizzie partner up to find the relics while fighting the relics' wacky side effects on the holder and their attraction to each other.

On the story...
I didn't enjoy this one at all. Of course Lizzie goes her whole life without knowing she's special and two guys show up on her doorstep ready to tell her and needing her help. Everything was just flat. The characters were silly and uninteresting. They did things that made no sense and I felt like I was in the middle of a slap stick comedy routine. The end made the entire book feel like nothing but contrived filler. I noticed similarities to Stephanie Plum characters which made these characters feel like substandard copies.

On the narrator...
I'm not really a fan of Lorelei King. I find her voice too mature and smoky for these characters.

Overall...
I thought this book was a waste of my time and I'll skip the rest of this series.

Dewey's #Readathon Wrap-up

2013-04-28T12:54:00.000-05:00

1) Which hour was most daunting for you? Hour 5. I started later than I planned and it created a flurry. It was like catch-up, catch-up, catch-up, read, read, read, comment, comment, comment... But when I finally settled in, I was fine.

2) Could you list a few high-interest books that you think could keep a Reader engaged for next year? As much as I try to resist YA, it is so much easier to read during the readathon. The writing is simpler, sentences shorter, and words bigger.

3) Do you have any suggestions for how to improve the Read-a-thon next year? I love the read-a-thon as it is. I like that each time I participate, I can change it and adapt it to fit what I need at that moment. There are so many options.

4) What do you think worked really well in this year’s Read-a-thon? I thought the prize situation was better and I thought the mini-challenges went very smooth.

5) How many books did you read? 2.1 :)

6) What were the names of the books you read? Conspiracy in Death by J.D. Robb and Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys

7) Which book did you enjoy most? Out of the Easy but they were both great.

8) Which did you enjoy least? By default, Conspiracy in Death

9) If you were a Cheerleader, do you have any advice for next year’s Cheerleaders? N/A

10) likely are you to participate in the Read-a-thon again? What role would you be likely to take next time? Next time I would like to do a mini-challenge and be a reader again. I'd also like to donate prizes next time.

Mini-Challenge: Turn the Page

2013-04-27T21:45:00.000-05:00

Hey Read-a-thoners!! Have your warmed up and settled in yet? Are you feeling the excitement?! We've come so far, but you might start feeling like a nap doesn't sound so bad. Never fear, we have a challenge just for these moments. So grab your coffee/tea, stretch those muscles, and grab your read. It's challenge time!!

For this challenge, you must turn to page 32 of the book you are currently reading (or the nearest page with text on it) and find the most entertaining phrase to complete the following sentence:

"I would rather read than ________ any day!"

For example, mine might say: "I would rather read than spend hours at that windows, staring at the garden any day!""

Post your sentence in the comments so everyone may enjoy! Don't forget to include the title of the book you are reading and your email so I can contact you. Let the laughs begin :) Push through we've got tons of reading fun ahead.

On winner will be chosen at the end of hour 20 and the winner may choose a book of their choice from the Book Depository (or Amazon) under $15. This challenge is open to all read-a-thoners who have a mailing address that the Book Depository ships to.

Happy Reading!!

Dewey's Read-a-Thon: Hours 13 - 24

2013-04-27T20:50:00.001-05:00

Hour 21

Currently Reading: To Katie with Love by Erica Lucke Dean

Completed Reads: Conspiracy in Death by J.D. Robb; Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys
Updates: I'm going to finish out this hour and then call it quits. I've got to be up bright and early tomorrow. I had fun this time guys! Thanks everyone for stopping in.
Snacks Eaten: None. I'm done for the night on this front.

Hour 20

Currently Reading: To Katie with Love by Erica Lucke Dean

Completed Reads: Conspiracy in Death by J.D. Robb; Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys
Updates: I finished another book! I swear I read faster in print that ecopy. I'm also giving away bookmarks to anyone who wants one. Leave me your email in the comments so I can get your info.
Snacks Eaten: None. I'm done for the night on this front.
Mini-challenge: Haiku Challenge
Hosted by: Crazy Comma Mama

Hour 19

Currently Reading: Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys

Completed Reads: Conspiracy in Death by J.D. Robb
Updates: I'm good and wrinkled. Getting out of the tub this hour. The hubby wants to watch a movie even though he knows I'm in the middle of the readathon. We knew this would happen.
Snacks Eaten: None. I'm done for the night on this front.
Mini-challenge: Picture Break
Hosted by: The Bookish Diaries

Hour 18

Currently Reading: Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys

Completed Reads: Conspiracy in Death by J.D. Robb
Updates: I came out of the tub to post my updates and participate in the challenge. I'm going to jump back in the tub to finish my book and then I'll be out for more socializing before bed.
Snacks Eaten: None. I'm done for the night on this front.
Mini-challenge: Cover Me
Hosted by: Stacy's Books

Hour 17

Currently Reading: Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys

Completed Reads: Conspiracy in Death by J.D. Robb
Updates: I'm in the bathtub this hour. Peaceful reading.
Snacks Eaten: None. I'm done for the night on this front.
Mini-challenge: Six Word Celebration
Hosted by: Estella's Revenge

Here's mine: Legend of Literacy. Twice a Year.

Hour 16

Currently Reading: Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys

Completed Reads: Conspiracy in Death by J.D. Robb
Updates: I'm in the bathtub this hour. Peaceful reading.
Snacks Eaten: None. I'm done for the night on this front.
Mini-challenge: Turn the Page
Hosted by: Reflections of a Bookaholic (me)

Hour 15

Currently Reading: Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys

Completed Reads: Conspiracy in Death by J.D. Robb
Updates: I've been puttering around here and there. I need to find new blogs to visit. I'm going to head to twitter and see who I can find.
Snacks Eaten: The hubby just made me a breakfast taco and it was so GOOD! I also had a bowl of soup. That's it for me for good. I feel like I could role over and I wouldn't be able to get up. But it was yum and so worth it.
Mini-challenge: The Casting Couch
Hosted by: My Little Pocketbooks
Of course Alysia would pick something that I'm really really bad at.
I'm going to pick two characters from the In Death series and I'm not creative so don't judge me.

I've picked Sandra Bullock for Eve Dallas. Eve is a nononsense kind of gal but with a heart she guards carefully. Since I like Sandra Bullock in all movies I watch and she fits the description. She's my pick.

And Reese Witherspoon for Mavis. I just think of Mavis as the petite little sweet thing who has a good heart but can be clueless sometimes, which reminds me of Legally Blonde and there you have it. The'd have to weird her out a bit but I think it works

Hour 14

Currently Reading: Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys

Completed Reads: Conspiracy in Death by J.D. Robb

Updates: This is my social hour so I'm not really reading this hour.

Snacks Eaten: None.

Mini-challenge: Nea's Share a Quote

Hosted By: My Life is a Fairytale That Will Never End

“Unnerved, Summerset moved quickly to the communication center. "Roarke, the lieutenant has just come in from outside. She wore no outer gear. She looks very bad."

"Where is she?"

"She's heading up. Roarke, I insulted her and...she apologized to me. Something must be done.”

Hour 13

Currently Reading: Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys

Completed Reads: Conspiracy in Death by J.D. Robb

Updates: I've finally finished a book!!

Snacks Eaten: I had Mango Green Tea and it was great

Mini-challenge: Cooking The Books

Hosted by: Azuki's Book Cafe

Dewey's Read-a-Thon: Hour 5-12

2013-04-27T11:42:00.002-05:00

Updated Post Can be Found Here!
Hour 12
Currently Reading: Conspiracy in Death by J.D. Robb (last few pages)
Updates: I'm finishing up one book and starting another in the next few minutes. We just had the mother of all hail storms. Nice.
Snacks eaten: None but I'm making tea as we speak.
Mini-challenge: Mid Event Survey

1) How are you doing? Sleepy? Are your eyes tired?
I'm not sleepy but I slept in and started the readathon late.
2) What have you finished reading?
Nothing :( That's what I get for sleeping in. I'm close though.
3) What is your favorite read so far?
Conspiracy in Death.
4) What about your favorite snacks?
Definitely my guacamole
5) Have you found any new blogs through the readathon? If so, give them some love!
Usually I would have found many more by now but it hasn't happened this time. I'm not sure why. I did find Lisa from Lisa's World of Books

Hour 11
Currently reading: Conspiracy in Death by J.D. Robb
Updates: Productive reading is occurring. This particular J.D. Robb book is longer than her usual. Just my luck. In other news, someone stole the Hubby's care package. No cause for alarm. He's playing Call of Duty. He wanted to be included in the update.
Snacks eaten: Bottle of water.
Mini-challenge: Picture Challenge
Hosted by: Kirsten from The Book Monsters

Hour 10
Currently reading: Conspiracy in Death by J.D. Robb
Updates: It seems like I've been reading the same book forever, but I've only been reading for a bout 3 hours. I had one uh oh hour. I should finish the book next hour since I'm socializing in this one. We'll see.
Snacks Eaten: I had another protein shake. The first one was really good and it is such a simple thing to drink a shake compared to making a sandwich. Yes, I'm that lazy.
Mini-challenge: Darren's Book Cover Quiz
Hosted by: Bart's Book Shelf

Hour 9
Currently reading: Conspiracy in Death by J.D. Robb
Updates: I've been trudging along :) I made some guacamole for the hubby (cause he still doesn't get the idea of a readathon). I will finish a book one day.
Snacks Eaten: Guacamole. Yes there was a reason I gave in.
Mini-challenge: Clear the Cobwebs and Recharge Yoga Challenge
Hosted by: Elizabeth Michelle

My Pose: Downward Facing Dog & Child's Pose

Hour 8
Currently reading: Conspiracy in Death by J.D. Robb
Updates: I had to make soup so I'll have two hours of serious reading before socializing
Snacks Eaten: No new snacks, but I'll probably grab more water. Come to think of it, this lack of an appetite isn't a bad thing. I'd probably be super skinny if I remained this way. Hmm...
Mini-challenge - Book Sentence Challenge
Hosted by: Midnight Book Girl
The great lover fallen from grace forever!

Hour 7
Currently reading: Conspiracy in Death by J.D. Robb
Updates: Had to kick the Hubby out of the bedroom. It was only a matter of time. Now I get to hear exploding video game sounds from the other room. Le Sigh. I got up and moving in this hour so I could take a picture for the Self Portrait. I'm ready to finish a book already!
Snacks Eaten: I've had a protein shake. It was delish.
Mini-challenge - Best and Worst Cover
Hosted by: Reading My Way Through Life
Here are my covers from Forgotten by Catherine McKenzie. I'm so torn about which I prefer because both are nice. If I had to choose, I'd go with the first one because I feel like it is makes clear that this is a contemporary read. I'd say the second cover could be a little misleading.

Hour 6

Currently reading: Conspiracy in Death by J.D. Robb

Updates: Serious reading this hour and socializing next hour. Then I'll catch up on my mini-challenges. That's a system of sorts

Snacks eaten: I've had tea and a bottle of water. Boring.

Mini-challenge - Book Puzzle

Hosted by: One Librarian's Book Reviews

Hey everyone! It's hour 5 and I'm just getting started. I thought I'd be up and going earlier but when you don't set your alarm clock crazy things happen.
Hour 5

Currently reading: Conspiracy in Death by J.D. Robb

Updates: I've been catching up and getting into the groove expect some serious reading and progress next hour.

Mini-Challenge - Self-Portrait

Hosted by: The Estella Society
I figured that blurry was better at this point. This challenge made me get out of my PJs and take down my hairwrap. But now that I have the picture, I'm thinking, I'll shower and jump back into new PJs and grab a scarf. :)

Hour 4

Currently Reading: Blogs and such (gotta catch up)

Mini-Challenge: Re-title Your Current Book

Hosted by: Geeky Blogger Book Blog

Book: Conspiracy in Death by J.D. Robb

New Title: Mystery of the Missing Organs

I'm aware that my creativity is embarrassingly lacking.

Hour 3

Currently Reading: My eyelids :)

Mini-Challenge - Book Appetite

Hosted by: Book Journey

Book: Conspiracy in Death by J.D. Robb

Beverage: White Russian (w/ real coffee)

Appetizers: Mars Bar (It's Eve after all. She loves her candy bars)

Main Course: Lobster Pasta (Have to eat like a gazillionaire)

Dessert: Coffee

Hour 2

Currently Reading: Nothing

Mini-Challenge - Book Spine Poetry

Hosted by: Stuffed Slippers and Wormy Books

Hour 1

Currently Reading: Nothing (Still fast asleep)

Mini-Challenge - Introductory Meme

Hosted by Dewey's Read-a-Thon

1) What fine part of the world are you reading from today?

I'm in Houston, Texas this time around (boy I've done this thing everywhere)

2) Which book in your stack are you most looking forward to?

Scarlet by Marissa Meyer

3) Which snack are you most looking forward to?

Tea. Sad I know, but I'm still feeling very down.

4) Tell us a little something about yourself!

This is my 5th readathon. Whoot! Whoot! Usually it's a mother/daughter duo but this time it isn't to be. I'll be on twitter @BookReflections and I LOVE THIS EVENT!!

5) If you participated in the last read-a-thon, what’s one thing you’ll do different today?

My last readathon participation was complicate because it was in the middle of a family tragedy. So I'll ignore that experience. This time, I plan to just have fun and not feel guilty if I do more socializing than reading :)

Dewey's Readathon Tomorrow!!

2013-04-26T21:00:00.000-05:00

Dewey's 24 Hour Read-a-thon is tomorrow and I hope I'll see you guys up and ready to go. Looking for some last minute tips? Check out my post on What Not to Do and Tips & Tricks. I plan to start reading when I wake up and end around hour 18. I've done the whole 24 hours before but I've got a busy Sunday so it isn't to be this time around.

I always like to set a few goals so let me tell you my plan this time around.

Here's my book list:
GOAL: It's long but I like to have options. I hope to read at least three of these.

Scarlet by Marissa Meyer
~~Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys~~
Tomorrow There Will be Apricots by Jessica Soffer
Forgotten by Catherine McKenzie
~~Conspiracy in Death by J.D. Robb~~
Loyalty in Death by J.D. Robb
Ashes by Ilsa J. Bick
To Katie with Love by Erica Lucke Dean
Legend of the Forbidden by J.F. Jenkins
Legend of the Touched by J.F. Jenkins.

Snack List:

GOAL: Don't leave the house for more snacks
This time I will have few snacks. There are two reasons. 1) I really haven't been feeling well due to antibiotics and a sinus/ear infection so I don't have much of an appetite. 2) I need to choose between spending too much time eating and too much time socializing so that I'm more productive.

Chicken Tortilla Soup
Breakfast Shake
Oatmeal Raisin Cookies
72 oz of water!!
Green tea

Companions:

GOAL: Remain on speaking terms with the Hubby.

If you've glanced at my previous helpful hints, you know this situation isn't ideal. Le Sigh.

Me
The Hubby

Fun:

GOAL: Try not to feel bad for all the socializing I do instead of reading.

I'll be updating the blog every other hour and I'll be on twitter. This time around I'm using Tweet chat because I had such fun using it during Bloggiesta. I'll also hop around visiting my fellow participants.

If you haven't signed up, it's not too late! Jump over to 24hourreadathon.com and join in! The challenge is to read for 24 hours straight but just do whatever you have time for. We are all in this together :)

Review & Giveaway: Breaking the Rules

2013-04-24T07:00:00.000-05:00

Breaking the Rules by Cat Lavoie
Genre: Chick-Lit
Pages: 208 (ebook)
Source: ABG Reads Book Tours
Author's Website | Twitter
Buy it: Amazon | Kindle

Description:

When twenty-seven year old Roxy Rule’s best friend and roommate accepts a glamorous new job overseas, she expects their relationship to continue as it’s always been—carefree and easy—until they share a heart-stopping kiss moments before his departure. Overcome with mixed emotions, she fights the urge to over analyze the situation and resumes back to her normal life in New York City, working for an intolerable boss at a dead end job, creeping further and further away from her own dreams of becoming a professional chef.
While things become more complicated between her and Ollie, Roxy is sure that nothing can come between two lifelong best friends—not even mild jealousy over a thriving career or a silly little kiss that meant nothing. In fact, it was such a meaningless and forgettable kiss that she convinces herself that it’s not even worth mentioning to her fiancé, although it is all she can think about.
Roxy’s already topsy-turvy life only gets more complicated when her sisters Steffi and Izzie suddenly become her roommates. Steffi is six months into a pregnancy she refuses to discuss and Izzie is in the throes of a premature midlife crisis. Roxy tries to take control of her career, her love life and her sisters – but can she really handle it all? And can the Rule family keep it together – or break under the pressure?

My Rating:

My Review:

The description above is a very solid one though I'll add just a little bit. Roxy's life isn't quite where she wants it to be. Her boss overworks and under-appreciates her, her relationship was going better before they had to agree on wedding details, and her best friend and roommate, Ollie, is moving across the world. As if her life couldn't get more complicated, her sisters move in with her but neither want to explain why. Now Roxy must navigate her own problems while helping her sisters with theirs.

I absolutely adored this book. I really don't want to give anything away. I connected with Roxy though I have nothing in common with her. She has middle-child syndrome and wants to be the peace-maker but at times this is detrimental to her own life. Just when I started to get a little upset with Roxy, she really came through for me. I was rooting for her the entire time. I expected the plot to be somewhat predictable but was pleasantly surprised. This isn't a quirky character situation where you find yourself both shocked and amused throughout the book. This is more of a cute realistic character in a plot that has surprising twists and turns. It isn't as heavy on the romance as you'd expect but the romance still warmed my heart. Ollie was simply adorable. I loved that many of the side characters were well-developed and interesting rather than predictable stock characters. I enjoyed the appearance of Roxy's sister but wish Izzie's storyline had been fleshed out a little more. I never quite understood her relationship situation.

Overall, I wanted more Ollie but I loved how balanced the entire plot turned out. Ms. Lavoie created realistic characters that will be hard to forget. If you are looking for a light cute read, I'd start here.

On the giveaway...

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Since I Rarely Post Trailers...And a Random Story

2013-04-23T23:54:00.000-05:00

I post many things about the Hunger Games on this blog, so it is only fitting that I post this trailer teaser thingy about Catching Fire. BUT this trailer made me a little less excited for the second movie... thoughts? Agree or Disagree? Take a look below

P.S. The Hunger Games movie reminds me of my brother. He and I went to see the movie together when it came out. I remember this especially because it was one of the first major outings (if not the first) he went on after his accident that year. When we got to the theater, I thought it was going to be a big mistake because the line was long and he still couldn't stand for very long. He gritted through it and when we made it to the theater it was a little triumph for him.

And I also think about this experience because you never know what people go through. When we sat down in the theater after he had stood for that time period, a woman asked if we could scoot down a seat and we said that we couldn't. At that time, he literally couldn't get back up because his legs had given out. She got so upset and told us that we were selfish people and would rot in hell. I'm not exaggerating. He felt so bad that he couldn't get up to move a seat. I was so mad at that rude lady. People have no idea. He sat through the entire movie worried that his legs wouldn't be ready to stand again after the movie. When it was over, he said the movie was worth it all.

He's a sweetheart. Really.

Me and my brother
(he's going to kill me for this)

Review: Dark Tide

2013-04-22T23:00:00.000-05:00

I apologize for this late review posting. I honestly thought I had schedule this one for review. Wouldn't you know, it was still in draft form? Grrr...

Dark Tide by Elizabeth Haynes
Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Crime
Pages: 388 (Hardback)
Source: TLC Book Tours
Author's Website | Twitter | Facebook
Buy it: Amazon | Kindle | B&N | Book Depo

Description:

The first time Genevieve saw it, she knew it was the one: Revenge of the Tide, "an odd sort of a name for a boat." Genevieve had finally escaped the stressful demands of her London sales job and achieved her dream--to leave the city behind and start a new life aboard a houseboat in Kent. She left the boat's name as it was. Revenge had character after all, and living in a marina made her feel a bit safer, a little less lonely; almost as if the boat looked after her, hid her away from view.

But her dreams are shattered the night of her boat-warming party when a body washes up, and to Genevieve's horror, she recognizes the victim as a close friend from nights dancing on-stage at a private members' club, the Barclay. She isn't about to tell the police, though; next to no one knew what Genevieve did every Friday and Saturday night to save money for her escape, and she sees no reason to reveal her past. The death can't have anything to do with her. Or so she thinks.

Soon the lull of the waves against Revenge feels anything but soothing, as Genevieve begins to receive mysterious calls and can't reach the one person who links the present danger with her history at the club. And then there is the parcel on her boat she's meant to be safekeeping for an old flame, which seems to be putting her in jeopardy. As Genevieve begins to fear for her safety, she recalls the moment when it had all started to go horribly wrong: the night she recognized her day-time boss in the crowd of customers at the Barclay. . . .

My Rating:

My Review:

2013-04-06T11:00:00.000-05:00

Source: sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net via Stephanie on Pinterest

Feeling anti-social. I'm getting too much people time and not enough book time.

Dewey's 24 Hour #Readathon, Who's In?

2013-04-05T03:08:00.000-05:00

It's that time again!!! I've signed up to participate in Dewey's 24 Hour Read-a-Thon. Twice a year in October and April one of my favorite events roll around. Readers sign up to challenge themselves to read for an entire 24 hours (or as long as life allows). There will be challenges, social media overload, and cheerleaders!

I love this particular challenges because I meet new people and find wonderful new blogs. I always make new friends. Last April I made the entire 24 hours for the first time, my mom made 21 hours,and my grandmother made it 18 hours. It was a family affair. Last October life happened and I didn't get to participate much. I'm ready to go this time around though.

I've already started compiling my reading list. You can find it on the right sidebar.

Are you in? Let me know in the comments I want to start organizing my feed folder.

Review: The Raven Boys (Audiobook)

2013-04-04T02:28:00.000-05:00

“There are only two reasons a non-seer would see a spirit on St. Mark’s Eve,” Neeve said. “Either you’re his true love . . . or you killed him.”

It is freezing in the churchyard, even before the dead arrive.

Every year, Blue Sargent stands next to her clairvoyant mother as the soon-to-be dead walk past. Blue herself never sees them—not until this year, when a boy emerges from the dark and speaks directly to her.

His name is Gansey, and Blue soon discovers that he is a rich student at Aglionby, the local private school. Blue has a policy of staying away from Aglionby boys. Known as Raven Boys, they can only mean trouble.

But Blue is drawn to Gansey, in a way she can’t entirely explain. He has it all—family money, good looks, devoted friends—but he’s looking for much more than that. He is on a quest that has encompassed three other Raven Boys: Adam, the scholarship student who resents all the privilege around him; Ronan, the fierce soul who ranges from anger to despair; and Noah, the taciturn watcher of the four, who notices many things but says very little.

For as long as she can remember, Blue has been warned that she will cause her true love to die. She never thought this would be a problem. But now, as her life becomes caught up in the strange and sinister world of the Raven Boys, she’s not so sure anymore.

My Rating:

My Review:

Oh what a suspenseful and mysterious read! Blue has grown up with a family of psychics and has always known a big piece of her future. When she crosses paths with Gansey and a few other privileged "Raven" boys, Blue finds that she simply can't stay away. Gansey is looking for a special energy path known as a ley line so that he may wake up a mythical figure who will grant a wish to the person who wakes him. Unlike the others, Adam must work his way through school and feels the pressure from both himself and his family. Noah is a sweet kid with a mysterious path. Roman is angry teenage kid who prefers to face his problems with his fists, haunted by a tragedy that hits too close to home. In this story we've got it all. There's a mysterious energy, an old mystery, an unsolved murder, betrayal, and mythology all center stage here.

On the story...
On one hand the story is well-written and has such an exciting premise. On the other hand, the underlying story about the missing guy and wanting a wish granted was a bit uninteresting. The other mysteries that arose from this were intriguing but the story dragged too much in the middle for me. Very little was solved in this installment and the biggest mystery of all--Blue's connection with Gansey--was left wide open. The beginning and the end was great. The beginning set an amazing stage and the end had some exciting adventure scenes. I quite enjoyed this read and would continue the rest of the series, but I couldn't help but be disappointed overall.

On the narrator...
I loved loved Mr. Patton. His voice was raspy and drew me in from the beginning. The guy voices were better than the female voice but it wasn't too bad because there were so many men. I can't think of a voice that could have been a better fit for both the characters and the tone of the read.

Overall, it didn't meet my expectations but I still plan to continue the series.

Book Spotlight with Missy Salick

2013-04-03T03:00:00.000-05:00

On the same night that twenty four-year-old Jordyn Sims has a miscarriage, her sister-in-law Tori Sims conceives a child. Nine months later, Tori, a long term heroin addict, abandons her two-hour-old drug addicted newborn Jeremiah, in a hospital stairwell. Jordyn receives the news and pursues foster adoption. However, Oscar, Tori's possessive drug-addicted boyfriend, is not about to give Jeremiah up so easily. While in confrontation with Tori and Oscar, Jordyn seeks help from the Administration of Children Services (ACS), only to discover she is faced with a maze of departments, regulations, legalities and overworked social workers. Jordyn, however, remains strong and continues to push through the uphill battle, even after she discovers she's pregnant.

With all odds against her adoption of Jeremiah, and her pregnancy at high risk from increasing stress, will Jordyn win this tough battle, or will her world crumble before her?

About the Author:

Missy B. Salick is a new author who has written her first novel, Claiming Jeremiah. Her fictional memoir on foster adoption is drawing a hefty buzz, with an online release date not until April 7, 2013 ( May 4 in paperback). The novel is small in size, but contains a powerful message. "Children in foster care need a place to call home." Salick, a foster care advocate, wrote this book based on her personal journey of foster adopting her four-year-old son.

Before self-publishing, Claiming Jeremiah, Salick spent several years as a freelance business writer for Fortune 500 companies such as: Shearman & Sterling, KPMG, Deloitte and many more. She also had a stint with song ghost writing. Salick's experience in the entertainment industry stems from working with entertainment companies and media including Violator, MBK, Village Voice and more. As the founder of J.J. Autumn Publishing, her publishing company is geared towards highlighting urban fiction dedicated to special causes and community awareness projects.

Questions and Answers with Missy:

What inspired you to write Claiming Jeremiah?

A: I was inspired to write Claiming Jeremiah after I experienced the foster adoption process with my son. My son was a family member who entered foster care and I wanted to prevent that from happening as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, due to legal and state laws it was harder than I thought. I did research, reading several books and articles on what I could do to stay positive and to learn more about the process. While I found several books about the technical information I needed, I couldn’t find any that illustrated a positive story and outcome. I wanted more than just information. I wanted to experience the roller coaster ride of someone else’s journey to give me hope. And the stories that were hopeful seemed too good to be true. I wanted the bad along with the good. I wanted the truth. While foster care isn’t always a beautiful and positive subject to speak about, I believe it is a subject that needs more public attention drawn to it in the media and from those who have experienced it from both sides, both the children and the parents. I kept a journal of my own personal trials and tribulations and that lead to the birth of Claiming Jeremiah.

What was the toughest part about writing Claiming Jeremiah?

A: The toughest part about writing Claiming Jeremiah was the character development. It was very important to me to capture each character the right way. The reader needs to be able to experience not only what it is like being each character, but also to get the information they needed to foster a child in care. For instance, from the first chapter you easily understand Jordyn and what she is about. However, with Tori, she is a much more complex character. From the first pages, you see her confused, scattered, and being a heavy drug user who has left her two-hour-old newborn in a hospital stairwell. The normal reaction would be to dislike her character. Tori is misunderstood, however, and I wanted to reveal what it would be like to walk in Tori’s shoes. What causes her to do this to her body, to herself, and to her children? What’s the driving force behind her actions? These are all questions I wanted to explore and give some shape and impression of to my readers. More importantly, I wanted to show her other side and not make her out just to be the villain.

Why did you start writing?

A: Writing has always and will always be a part of my life. Writing is my comfort zone. Nothing brings me more peace and assurance in my life than writing. There is no judgment when my pen hits the paper. To me it’s my time to be free. I can say what I want, wear what I want, be whom I want. Writing keeps me sane. When I write I have the opportunity to let go and express myself.

You are still very young—at what age did you begin this process, and what has it been like being a young foster (adoptive) mother?

A: I began this process when I was twenty-four years old. I must say it has been a rewarding experience. Never in a million years would I have thought I would be doing this, yet alone at this age. It’s funny, because when my husband and I go to trainings or into the agencies we are always the youngest ones there. We usually get bombarded with questions and then praised for our actions.

As a foster parent, since you have witnessed some of the challenges involved in all the red tape, what are some solutions that you can offer?

A: Each situation is different. You have to find what solutions work best for you. For me, I was dealing with two states and therefore had to deal with four different agencies: the ICPC of each state and each state’s local agency. It was a nightmare. My solution was to make sure nothing fell through the cracks. Each day I was constantly e-mailing or calling someone for a status update. My advice would be to find out what the hold up is or what you can do to make the process move faster and more smoothly. The caseworkers have so many cases and things going on, it’s easy for them to get sidetracked. I’ve learned they care as much as you care. If you show extra incentive, they will too.

What suggestions would you give to aspiring writers?

A: You have to start somewhere. You cannot finish that book if you don’t write. Write as much as you can. The best part about writing is you can do it anywhere. Always remain true to yourself and your characters. Most importantly—keep writing and find a great editor you connect with.

Review: The Scorpio Races (Audiobook)

2013-04-02T01:43:00.000-05:00

It happens at the start of every November: the Scorpio Races. Riders attempt to keep hold of their water horses long enough to make it to the finish line. Some riders live. Others die.

At age nineteen, Sean Kendrick is the returning champion. He is a young man of few words, and if he has any fears, he keeps them buried deep, where no one else can see them.

Puck Connolly is different. She never meant to ride in the Scorpio Races. But fate hasn’t given her much of a chance. So she enters the competition — the first girl ever to do so. She is in no way prepared for what is going to happen.

My Rating:

My Review:

Ever since Puck (Kate)'s parents were killed by the blood hungry capaill uisce horses, Puck and her two brothers have struggled to make ends meet. they rarely had enough to eat and faced hardship while still dealing with the grief accompanying sudden death. When Puck's older brother makes a surprising announcement, Puck hastily joins the Scorpio races, an annual race where riders train and ride the deadly horses in an effort to win great wealth. Her actions start a host of other problems as she becomes the first girl to ever enter the race. Sean Kendrick also finds himself an orphan due to the blood hungry Uisce horses; yet, he makes his living taking care of them. Sean has had much success at previous Scorpio Races, but this year's race is the most important of all as the stakes are much higher. Sean tries to focus on this year's goal but is distracted by the stubborn and ignorant Puck.

On the story...
The the story is slow in parts, Puck and Sean's story is complex and captivating. The premise is unique and imaginative. The characters are well-drawn and consistent. Both Puck and Sean have faced hardships and are a little rough around the edges, making their interactions with each other simple yet endearing. There were moments where I drove gripping my steering wheel excited for the next chapter. The best parts are the beginning and the end. the end really broke my heart though I was quite satisfied after completion.

On the narrators...
I think these narrators were perfect for these characters. It wasn't the most exciting read but these characters are tough but emotionally withdrawn. These characters were able to portray these characters while keeping a careful balance all the while.

Overall, I enjoyed the story and the audio. Since the story is slow in parts I might suggest reading the book; but then again, these narrators are so perfect for these characters, I would hate for you to miss out.

Just Kidding.

2013-04-01T00:05:00.000-05:00

Source: humordairy.com via Cheri on Pinterest

Hopefully you won't get pranked today. Unless that is what you want.