The Story Seekers

Emilia's Review on Silence

2012-11-24T22:05:00.002-07:00

Silence
Author: Becca Fitzpatrick (@becfitzpatrick)
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Release Date: October 4, 2011
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 448
Source: Bought
Rating: Escapable
Series: Hush, Hush #3
The Other Books: Hush, Hush, Crescendo, Finale
Extras: Trailer, Series Website
Seek: Amazon, Goodreads

WHEN SILENCE IS ALL THAT'S LEFT, CAN THE TRUTH FINALLY BE HEARD?

Nora Grey can't remember the past five months of her life. After the initial shock of waking up in a cemetery and being told that she has been missing for weeks - with no one knowing where she was or who she was with - she tried to get her life back on track. Go to school, hang out with her best friend, Vee, and dodge mom's creepy new boyfriend.

But there is this voice in the back of her head, an idea that she can almost reach out and touch. Visions of angel wings and unearthly creatures that have nothing to do with the life she knows.

And this unshakable feeling that a part of her is missing.

Then Nora crosses paths with a sexy stranger, whom she feels a mesmerizing connection to. He seems to hold all the answers...and her heart. Every minute she spends with him grows more and more intense until she realizes she could be falling in love. Again.

I like how the covers, for the entire series, doesn't change too much. This one however, I am a little disappointed. Patch doesn't have his wings in this book. For once, I just want to see his black upside-down V scars. Those scars keep popping up in the story, so I keep hoping we get to see them. Also, if Nora was passed out, wouldn't her head be...I don't know... dangling? In this photo, it looks like the model is straining herself to keep her head up. Not pretty.

He steepled his fingers over his mouth. All the while, his eyes never wavered from my face. "I'm hoping to keep you alive."

My mind lagged, unable to understand enough of the dream to read a deeper message. The only thought pounding through me was, I found him. After all this time, I found Patch. And instead of of matching my excitement, the only feeling he harbors is . . . cold detachment.

I have had a love/hate relationship with the Hush, Hush Saga. I fell in love with Hush, Hush. I hated the beginning of Crescendo, but was very intrigued by the ending. I was going to pick up Silence right away, but I was afraid to. It was a good thing I waited because I don’t think I would have like Silence as much as I do, if I read it right after Crescendo. Nora just gets on my nerves sometimes.

I am not the only one that has some mixed feelings about this series. Just let me say this though. If you like paranormal romance or just angels, then this is a series to check out. I just want to finish the series, to have it forever checked off my to-be-read pile, so I never have to pick them up again. However if there’s going to be movie, then I might read them again.

Beware, there are a couple of spoilers up ahead.

Okay, so after the major cliff-hanger ending of Crescendo, we get thrown into a very weird plot-line. Nora doesn’t have a clue on what happened to her in the last two books, but we do. Yeah, so pretty much, we know who’s who, why some people are stronger, and faster, then normal humans, and why she gets a chill around Hank Millar. And the worst part….Patch is the caused of all this.

Patch, trying to be a hero, but with a girl like Nora, who never gives up on trying to kill herself, his heroic plans never work. This girl just loves getting herself almost-killed. Anyways, Patch gives himself up to save Nora. He will help Hank Millar by giving him information from fallen angels, if he promises to let Nora live. Hank agrees but not the way Patch wants. Hank kidnaps Nora, until he gets enough from Patch.

Nora is released from captivity three months after disappearing. However, she doesn’t remember anything since April. It’s now September. She's missing five months of memories, but she was only gone for three. Nora doesn’t know what happened to her memory, but she wants it back. She will put herself in danger multiple times, just to get it back. Some of the things she does are kind of outrageous. I mean who goes to a graveyard after hours, in the dark, alone! Also, who goes to empty warehouses…again, alone! It’s ridiculous.

Becca does ever keep you interested in the story. I kept hoping Nora will get memories back, especially the ones of Patch. And I kept hoping she finally figures out everything. Still we get more information on fallen angels, nephilims, and even archangels.

That’s all I can really say without ruining the whole story. A couple of things though. Scott is back! I don’t know why I like him, but he does make the story interesting. Also, Patch is going by Jev now and he’s still mysteriously hot.

Of course, I can’t end the series here. I am going to continue on with Finale, because I need to see what happens on Cheshvan. I am hoping for something epic.

I just notice something. In this series, the covers I disliked are the ones I enjoyed the most. The covers I liked, for instance Crescendo, I didn't like the story. I really hope this isn't true about Finale, because I am really liking the cover. Even though, it still doesn't show Patch's back.

Finale is the final book in the Hush, Hush Saga. It's already been released and I am picking it up asap! I need to finish this series already.

Emilia's Review on Beta

2012-11-18T02:00:00.000-07:00

Beta
Author: Rachel Cohn (@RachelCohn)
Publisher: Hyperion
Release Date: October 16, 2012
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 331
Source: Bought
Rating: Reachable
Series: Annex #1
The Other Books:
Challenge: None
Extras: Facebook
Seek: Goodreads, Amazon

Elysia is created in a laboratory, born as a sixteen-year-old girl, an empty vessel with no life experience to draw from. She is a Beta, an experimental model of a teenage clone. She was replicated from another teenage girl, who had to die in order for Elysia to exist.

Elysia's purpose is to serve the inhabitants of Demesne, an island paradise for the wealthiest people on earth. Everything about Demesne is bioengineered for perfection. Even the air induces a strange, euphoric high, which only the island's workers--soulless clones like Elysia--are immune to.

At first, Elysia's life is idyllic and pampered. But she soon sees that Demesne's human residents, who should want for nothing, yearn. But for what, exactly? She also comes to realize that beneath the island's flawless exterior, there is an under-current of discontent among Demesne's worker clones. She knows she is soulless and cannot feel and should not care--so why are overpowering sensations cloud-ing Elysia's mind?

If anyone discovers that Elysia isn't the unfeeling clone she must pretend to be, she will suffer a fate too terrible to imagine. When her one chance at happi-ness is ripped away with breathtaking cruelty, emotions she's always had but never understood are unleashed. As rage, terror, and desire threaten to overwhelm her, Elysia must find the will to survive.

The first in a dazzlingly original science fiction series from best-selling author Rachel Cohn, "Beta "is a haunting, unforgettable story of courage and love in a cor-rupted world.

Love the cover! The model actually looks like what I pictured Elysia to look like. I wish would could see her other imprint on her left side. I also love the colors of purple, blue, and pink mixing together. So shiny.

Xanthe leans in close to whisper to me.

"Do you wish?" she asks.

My heart suddenly beats faster, as if I am being threatened, when I know I am only being reassured about my duties. "I do not wish," I state. "I serve."

This book had a lot of potential of being one of my favorites. It was just too damn long! Not a lot of things happened in this book. To me, it was another contemporary mixed with science fiction. There were just too many slow moments, not enough wow moments.

The beginning had me hook. I was interested to see what Rachel did with this unemotional character. Elysia is a clone of a teen human, with no soul. She is not supposed to feel anything, but has the knowledge on how to react to humans. She pretty much fakes everything. Clones are supposed to work/serve, not wish or dream or care about anything. So you can see why I was interested in viewing her point of view on things.

Another thing about Elysia, that’s interesting, she is one of the first clones of a teenager. A beta, which means she is a prototype that can still have some errors. She lives on this island, Demesne, where everything is perfect. The air on the island is so pure, that humans become so relaxed; they don’t want to work. That is why clones are needed to do the work for them. Only the wealthy can afford this type of lifestyle.

Elysia gets bought by a lady and gets taken into the family as a companion. Elysia has to prove to everyone that she is a perfect teen clone and she is not a Defect. However, she starts to experience things. Feelings, taste, and she even gets some memories of her First, the human she was cloned from. None of these things are supposed to be happening.

Anyways, this is what we get throughout the whole story. Elysia is experiencing Defect type things and she is curious about other clones experiencing these types of things as well. Then, she finds out about a group of clones who don’t want to work for humans, which begin to start some trouble. Nothing too big though…yet.

As for the romance in this book, it was sweet. I can’t really say anything too much about it, because for me, there weren’t enough things to make a great romance.

I think Rachel set this book to build into all the action. We get some excitement at the ending, to get us excited for the sequel. For me, however, I was mad. It took Elysia why too long to find some things out for me. I figure them out way before she did. But…I am still going to check out the second book. Hopefully, it will be better than this one.

There looks like there is going to be three books in this series. No news on what the sequel is about.

Emilia's Review on Renegade

2012-11-13T00:56:00.002-07:00

Renegade
Author: J. A. Souders (@JASouders)
Publisher: Tor Teen
Release Date: November 13, 2012
Format: E-galley
Pages: 368
Source: Netgalley
Rating: Escapable!
Series: The Elysium Chronicles #1
The Other Books:
Challenge: Debut Reads of 2012
Extras: Facebook
Seek: Goodreads, Amazon

Since the age of three, sixteen-year-old Evelyn Winters has been trained to be Daughter of the People in the underwater utopia known as Elysium. Selected from hundreds of children for her ideal genes, all her life she’s thought that everything was perfect; her world. Her people. The Law.

But when Gavin Hunter, a Surface Dweller, accidentally stumbles into their secluded little world, she’s forced to come to a startling realization: everything she knows is a lie.

Her memories have been altered.

Her mind and body aren’t under her own control.

And the person she knows as Mother is a monster.

Together with Gavin she plans her escape, only to learn that her own mind is a ticking time bomb... and Mother has one last secret that will destroy them all.

Beautiful and haunting. This cover just fits perfectly with the story. If you look closely, you can see that window is showing you that the girl is actually in an underwater society. I didn't notice it at first but ah, I love it.

The Surface could never compare. Not that I’ve ever seen the Surface. It is forbidden, even for me.

Which is fine. My life is just about perfect.

My mind is totally blown away. I literally can’t say enough on how awesome and thrilling this book was. This is definitely one of my favorites of 2012. Might even be number 1, but let’s not get ahead of ourselves. The year isn’t over, and there are still lots of books coming out. But still, it might just stay in that spot.

I have to say Souders did make a very gutsy move. Making this girl repeat how she starts her days and repeat some of her words, it could have gotten very boring. Or confusing. However, I think she did an outstanding job because it made the story very unique. Holy crap did this story have so many twists and turns.

I think what made me love this book so much, is because I really didn’t know what it was about. I didn’t read any reviews or watch any video reviews. I requested the book because I knew it was science fiction and well hello, the very awesome cover.

Let’s discuss about Evelyn. I have to say I was a little confused on who she was. Her mind is controlled and when her Mother doesn’t approve of something, she erases Evie’s mind. So, we don’t actually know who Evie really is. This gives us a lot of mystery. However, you do see Evie is trustworthy and kind. She doesn’t see the bad in people. She also is smart girl, if only her memories weren’t getting erased.

Then there’s Gavin. I love the reactions between him and Evie. I couldn’t get enough of them. Even when things are starting to get darker, he still brightens it up. Trust me, if you read the book, you will know what I mean about that.

As for Mother, the governor of this utopia, she controls everything. I mean everything! She is completely insane.

As for plot, the story gets darker and more menacing with each page turn. You really won’t expect everything that is coming. And, I’m not going to spoil it for you. This is a MUST read for anyone.

Ah! The ending! It leaves off on a satisfied note, but I still want more. Glad this book is the first in a series.

Recently released. No news on sequel.

Emilia's Review on Eve and Adam

2012-11-12T05:22:00.001-07:00

Eve & Adam
Author: Michael Grant and Katherine Applegate
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Release Date: October 2, 2012
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 291
Source: Publisher
Rating: Reachable
Challenge: None
Extras: Trailer
Seek: Goodreads, Amazon

And girl created boy…

In the beginning, there was an apple—

And then there was a car crash, a horrible injury, and a hospital. But before Evening Spiker’s head clears a strange boy named Solo is rushing her to her mother’s research facility. There, under the best care available, Eve is left alone to heal.

Just when Eve thinks she will die—not from her injuries, but from boredom—her mother gives her a special project: Create the perfect boy.

Using an amazingly detailed simulation, Eve starts building a boy from the ground up. Eve is creating Adam. And he will be just perfect... won’t he?

I love the cover. It has that sciencey touch to it and tells you who came first. Instead of Adam and Eve, we have Eve creating Adam. It sounds like it's going to be an awesome read.

“We will soon have the ability to design and create the new human. Evolution still, but guided evolution.”

There is a long pause. I am not entirely sure if she expects us to applaud.

“Of course,” she adds, coming down off her high, “only in computer simulation.”

This book had a lot of potential but in the end, it was just okay. I couldn’t really take anything seriously because the characters weren’t. When something bad was going on, the characters always seemed to have a joke. Mad scientists, indeed. Also note, this is not a dystopian. It is set in our time and has a bunch of science fiction.

The story resolves around Spiker Biotech and the secrets that need to be revealed. This is one crazy, and yet helpful, science lab. The scientists here are creating vaccines for small cases of diseases and helping save lives. But underneath all the good, these scientists are creating… life. However, the things they are creating are not at all good.

Evening, aka Eve, doesn’t know about any of this science stuff and doesn’t really know her mom. She sees her mom as a powerful, smart woman. She pretty much is clueless until halfway through the book. Readers know what’s going on before she does. Eve was a great character and I wish we got to know a little bit more about her. I also was kind of hoping for more info on her accident.

Solo is a guy that was taken in by Eve’s mom. Solo’s parents died in a car crash and because of this car crash, he was left in Terra’s care. Now, he lives in Spiker Biotech. Everyone thinks he doesn’t know what’s going on, but he is actually spying and gathering information to take down Spiker Biotech and Terra. Things change when he meets Eve.

There are others characters in the story like Terra Spiker, Ashlin (Eve’s friend), and finally, Adam. Adam is Eve’s creation and you do get his point of view towards the ending of the book.

This book was very fast-paced, and it didn’t really take me that long to read it. There were parts that I really like but in the end, it was just an okay book. I am satisfied with the ending and really hope that it is the ending. Please don't let there be more books after this one.

This two authors make great team so, I am kind of hoping for another book from them. Michael Grant, the writer of the Gone series, has the sixth book Light coming out next year.

Emilia's Review on All These Things I've Done

2012-11-10T07:16:00.000-07:00

All These Things I've Done
Author: Gabrielle Zevin (@gabriellezevin)
Publisher: Farrar, Straus, and Giroux
Release Date: September 6, 2011
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 354
Source: Bought
Rating: Escapable
Series: Birthright #1
The Other Books: Because It Is My Blood
Challenge: None
Extras: Trailer
Seek: Goodreads, Amazon

In 2083, chocolate and coffee are illegal, paper is hard to find, water is carefully rationed, and New York City is rife with crime and poverty. And yet, for Anya Balanchine, the sixteen-year-old daughter of the city's most notorious (and dead) crime boss, life is fairly routine. It consists of going to school, taking care of her siblings and her dying grandmother, trying to avoid falling in love with the new assistant D.A.'s son, and avoiding her loser ex-boyfriend. That is until her ex is accidently poisoned by the chocolate her family manufactures and the police think she's to blame. Suddenly, Anya finds herself thrust unwillingly into the spotlight--at school, in the news, and most importantly, within her mafia family.

Engrossing and suspenseful, All These Things I've Done is an utterly unique, unputdownable read that blends both the familiar and the fantastic.

I love this cover more than the paperback one. In the book, Anya has wild hair not straight, cropped hair. Also, I feel like the chocolate represents Anya. She has a hard exterior but it slowly melts away with Win.

Although I doubt this had been Mrs. Cobrawick's point, I did learn something about insanity while I was down there. People go crazy, not because they are crazy, but because it's the best available option at the time. In a way, it would have been easier to lose my mind because then I wouldn't have had to be there anymore.

This is another book that I put off reading too long. I got an ARC of this book last year in July. I been wanted to read it ever since. Then the publishers sent me a paperback copy of this one and an ARC of the sequel. It was even more reason to read this book, and yet I still put it off. Shame on me.

This is what I call a contemporary-dystopian. It has a lot of drama like a contemporary, but its setting is 2083. Chocolate and caffeine are illegal, water is precious, and crime is up. Anya’s family is known as criminals, thieves, and even, murderers. She doesn’t want anything to do with any of it. Her parents were killed because of the family business, and she wants to stay of it. She makes sure to keep her brother and sister out of it as well.

However, you can’t run away from your past. Everyone knows who her father was and who her family is and they know how powerful they can be. Nobody messes with a Balanchine.

What I love about Anya’s character is how protective and strong she was for her family. She tried to be the protector of her small family and didn’t try to seek help from others. Her grandmother is there to watch over them, but she is dying. Her older brother isn’t all there, and everyone knows he won’t be able to watch over Anya and Natty. So, Anya takes on all the responsibilities of taking care of all of them.

While Anya is smart, she still made mistakes. Sometimes it was hard to see how hard her life really is. There more challenges that came her way, the more I was afraid for her and her family. I can feel how much they mean to her.

There are a few things that made her happy. Her family, her friend Scarlet, and now, her new boyfriend Win. Ah, how I love Win! He was such a good guy and it’s hard not to love him. Damn you Anya for so many secrets. If I was with him, I wouldn’t be able to keep a secret. However, I am not a skilled liar.

Towards the ending, it was starting to slow down. Because of this, I knew something big was going to happen. And it did. Now, I’m glad I have the sequel with me because I need to continue on to see what happens.

Like I said, I not a big fan of the new covers. However, on the sequel, Anya does go to Japan and this cover does an awesome job representing that. Unfortunately, the model doesn't look like Anya.

I am beyond excited to continue on with the series, and can't wait to get more of Win. But by the book summary, it's not looking good for our couple Anya and Win.

Emilia's Review on Struck

2012-11-08T05:37:00.001-07:00

Struck
Author: Jennifer Bosworth (@JennBosworth)
Publisher: Farrar, Straus and Giroux BYR
Release Date: May 8, 2012
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 373
Source: Bought
Rating: Escapable
Series: Struck #1
The Other Books:
Challenge: Debut Reads of 2012
Extras: Trailer, Facebook
Seek: Goodreads, Amazon

Mia Price is a lightning addict. She’s survived countless strikes, but her craving to connect to the energy in storms endangers her life and the lives of those around her.

Los Angeles, where lightning rarely strikes, is one of the few places Mia feels safe from her addiction. But when an earthquake devastates the city, her haven is transformed into a minefield of chaos and danger. The beaches become massive tent cities. Downtown is a crumbling wasteland, where a traveling party moves to a different empty building each night, the revelers drawn to the destruction by a force they cannot deny. Two warring cults rise to power, and both see Mia as the key to their opposing doomsday prophecies. They believe she has a connection to the freak electrical storm that caused the quake, and to the far more devastating storm that is yet to come.

Mia wants to trust the enigmatic and alluring Jeremy when he promises to protect her, but she fears he isn’t who he claims to be. In the end, the passion and power that brought them together could be their downfall. When the final disaster strikes, Mia must risk unleashing the full horror of her strength to save the people she loves, or lose everything.

When I first saw this cover, I couldn't stop staring at it. If you actually zoom in on the girl, you can see her scars from being struck by lightening. How awesome is that!? It also looks like the girl is about to embrace something and from the epic storm, you have to think that it's going to be big.

I tore my eyes from the massing storm and saw him. Jeremy. Standing near the edge of the roof, shaking his head.

"It doesn't have to be like this," he said.

"But it does," I told him. "This is who I am. This is what I'm supposed to do."

"You can change it."

Ah, there is just so many things I want to say about this book! Struck was such a wonderful, thrilling read! I couldn’t even pull myself away from the book. Yup, that’s right, I stayed up all night reading this book. The reason I waited so long to read this book, was because, I read a couple reviews on it. Some people either really love the book or just liked it. Now I know, that I need to wait until after I read a book, to check out other reviews.

The book was cut into four parts. The first three parts are days before the storm, while the fourth part is the storm. When I was going through the book, and found this out, I was little worried. Usually having that many pages for just one day, the author makes the details really long and boring. Jennifer didn’t do this for Struck.

In the first part, I was really curious about everything. We know some things before Mia does, so I was excited to see when she catches up on some things. Also, I really wanted to know who these groups were that wanted Mia. We have Seekers who are people that are searching to build their group with people who have the Spark. Then, we have the Prophet and his Followers. The Prophet predicts an earthquake and now, everyone is starting to believe everything he says. He is super creepy.

The second part, I hated it. I was bored but I’m glad I didn’t give up on it. I don't want to get into too much detail because of spoilers.

The third part got my excitement all over again. I keep guessing things before Mia does but I was still curious to see how things go down. Jeremy! I am in love with this guy even if he has so many secrets.

The fourth part….holy moly. Don’t even get me started! Awesome and heartbreaking.

Overall, really great story, world-building, and characters. I know this was a quick review, but I just can't put everything I thought about this book into words. If you are looking for a science fiction thriller, then you need to read this! Don't wait too long, like I did. I am really curious on what the sequel will bring.

No news yet. It's killing me to know that there's still no news on what the sequel is about.

End of the World Marathon + Giveaway!

2012-11-08T04:00:00.000-07:00

Okay guys we're back! Or at least, some of us, that is. It looks like it's just going to be Gabrielle and me for the next two months. The rest of them will be back in the new year, with a whole new design to our blog! Yay! We also got a 2013 Reading Challenge that we have been planning for months! We even got some authors and publishers on board as well. More on that later though.

So, now we are coming back to the reading and reviewing part. Gabrielle and me have a lot of books we have been wanting to read, that came out this year, but haven't gotten to them yet. We are really behind on our Goodreads challenge. I don't even want to think about the other challenges we wanted to do :/. So, we decided to have a little marathon to help us move along with it.

Gabrielle is sticking to PARANORMAL READS and I'm sticking to SCIENCE FICTION READS. We each have a list of books we been dying to read so, we are just going to dive right in. I'm even hoping to get some audio books in there as well.

To celebrate this marathon with us, we are doing a giveaway! We are giving away ARCs of two awesome books that come out next year!

The Archived by Victoria Schwab, which if you didn't know, is the writer of The Near Witch! Ivy and I thought it was fantastic. We are really excited for her next book! The tagline for The Archived is this "Imagine a place where the dead rest on shelves like books". Sounds very chilling.

Prodigy is the highly anticipated sequel to Legend by Marie Lu. I really loved Legend and was disappointed to see the sequel pushed back until next year. I got my chance to read it (no spoilers!) and now you have your chance!

There will be two winners! Whoever writes us back first gets first pick! So, keep an eye on those emails.

Official Contest information:

to enter, please fill out the form below and follow the instructions
entrants must be 13 years of age or older
contest opened INTERNATIONAL!!!
Contest opened all the way to November 30, 2012
two winners will be emailed at the conclusion of the contest
two winners will be notified by email and will have TWO DAYS to reply or a new winners will be chosen.
DO NOT PUT YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Blog Tour: Sarah's Review on Sprite

2012-10-18T02:30:00.000-06:00

Sprite
Author: Leigh Michael (@LMichaelBooks)
Publisher: CreateSpace
Release Date: April 30, 2012
Format: Kindle
Pages: 152
Source: Author/Blog Tour
Rating: Escapable
Series: Annabelle's Story #1
The Other Books: Kin
Challenge: None
Extras:
Seek: Amazon, Goodreads

Annabelle Walsh thought she had it all. She was the star of her swim team, had a loving family, a great boyfriend, and to top it off, she’d be starting at UCLA in the fall. One day, she’d be referred to as Dr. Annabelle Walsh.

She was living every girl’s dream – until her life was turned upside down. All starting with finding out that she's not just a human, but also a water spirit. Half-human, half-sprite to be exact. Although not just any sprite, Annabelle is prophesied to be the only one who can save both the sprites and mankind.

With a mix of current events, anecdotes from Greek mythology, tidbits of folklore, and Leigh’s own imagination, we join Annabelle in her journey to restore order beneath the sea. Each step of the way her mind, body, and soul are pushed to the limit begging the question, how much can one half-human, half-sprite take?

Love how simple, yet beautiful, this cover is. I love how you are able to see the color of the girl's eyes. There is a little mystery to this cover, because you are curious to know what the girl is staring at.

Then the strangest thing happened. The dolphin grabbed the netting and led me–further out to sea. It all happened so quickly. I was out another ten maybe twenty yards from the shore without the ability to do anything to stop it.

I barely took a breath of air, and then the dolphin pulled me under.

I have been reading a lot of different types of fantastic mermaid books and Sprite is one of my favorites. Even though, this isn’t a mermaid book. The main character is a sprite. This would be a first for me, and I really love how Leigh Michael tells the story in a fast paced story, with amazing character point of view. Annabelle is such a funny character, it’s hard not to like her.

Annabelle’s life was good. She is an amazing swimmer, she has a great family, she worked her hardest in high school, and soon she will be going to UCLA. And not alone, she even has a boyfriend who will be there along with her. Her life was just about to get even better.

Then, things spin out of control. Annabelle is kidnapped, thrown into the ocean, drowned by a dolphin, and then saved by a merman. If that wasn’t crazy enough, she finds out that she’s not all human.

Like I said before, this story was really quick-paced and hard not to enjoy. You get thrown right into action. In most fantasy books, the character slowly learns clues to what she is. In this book, Annabelle is told what she is right away. Which I loved, because Leigh brought many Greek mythical creatures into it and I love meeting and learning about them

With not that many pages in the book, I felt some things were sped up. I wanted to know more about some characters and the world Annabelle gets thrown into.

This book has fast paced action, a great heroine, and an amazing new world and creatures. The way this book ended, I am really excited to get into the second book.

Kin is the second book in Annabelle's Story. I don't want to give too much info about what I think is going to happen or what happen in the first book. No spoilers. You can, however, find out more on the book's Goodreads page or author's website.

Also check out the rest of the blog tour |HERE|.

Update on Some Things

2012-10-16T07:38:00.000-06:00

Okay so you may have notice that we haven’t been here for awhile… There are some reasons behind this.

For Sarah, she is planning her wedding for this December and well you know how those things go. Lots of work! So, Sarah will be doing some reviews here and there but she won’t be present all the time.

Alice and Danny have mid-terms coming up so, they are busy studying for those tests.

So, that just leaves Gaby, Ivy, and I. Ivy is taking a personal break and Gaby has been trying to balance school, work, and reading. As for me, I am still busy taking care of my sister and her being in bed rest. I also just started a new job because I was having a few problems with Barnes and Noble. So, I am now working at Wal-Mart and it’s way different from what I’m used to. I’m a cashier and some people can get a little crazy about price-match. I also just found out that I am working on Black Friday, which I am a little scared about.

Now about the Fierce Reads Giveaway. We actually already contacted all the winners for Team Fantasy and Team Sci-Fi. And so far, most of them have already received their packages. We also already picked the winners for the ARC giveaways as well, and they already received their packages as well.

So that just leaves the Twitter Giveaway. I couldn’t host it last Saturday because I was working that day and didn’t have time to tweet about the giveaway. So, instead, I am hosting the giveaway tomorrow. Good news for you guys though. I decided since I am so late on this giveaway, I will pick two winners instead of one. So, that means each winner will receive one book each!

All you have do tomorrow is tweet this:

"I want to win a #FierceReads book from @TheStorySeekers."

And tomorrow I will putting everyone's Twitter name, who tweets that tweet, into random.org and pick 2 winners at 8p.m. Central Time.

Does this sound good?

Top Ten Tuesday: Favorite Authors of Ghost Stories

2012-10-16T06:40:00.002-06:00

Since it's October, I thought I pick a paranormal creature to go along with this week's topic. Which is actually about Favorite Authors on a X genre. I picked "Ghosts" as my genre for the week, because I hardly hear anything about a really good ghost story. So here are a few I chose and I am sure the others will approve of. I'm pretty sure there are a few books that I missed.

1. Golden & Grey by Louise Arnold

It took me awhile to find this book on Goodreads but I finally did. I read this back in middle school and fell in love with the many ghosts in this book. I was in the library just looking at random books and saw the cover of this one. The ghost's odd looks caught my attention. This book isn't just about one type of ghost, like Casper the friendly ghost. This book has many different types of ghosts, who all have different types of talents or jobs they do in our world. I love this so much, and will most likely pick up this book again, and probably this month.

2. Liesl & Po by Lauren Oliver

Truth be told, this is the only book I ever read by Lauren Oliver. I really need to read her YA books, though. Po is our ghost in this book and he helps Liesl on a big adventure. This book was just beyond amazing and can't wait to read her other middle grade book, the Spindlers.

3. Ghostgirl by Tonya Hurley

If you haven't pick up this book yet, you really should. The story is just simply fun but the really great thing about these books, are the details in the hardcover editions.

4. Hereafter by Tara Hudson

I didn't think love could exist after death but Tara has changed my mind. I picked up this book after readin Sarah's review on it. And she agrees, this is one of her favorite ghost stories ever. It's touching and yet dark at the same time, and Arise, the sequel, gets even darker. I love Amelia and love how Tara can write from a ghost perspective when it comes to love.

5. Everlost by Neal Shusterman

Come on, it's Neal Shusterman! If you haven't read anything by him, you are truly missing out. This book in particular is about kids who don't move on to the afterlife. They are actually stuck in between, in a place called Everlost. The two main characters were such fun to read about and if I died, I kind of want to go to Everlost then somewhere else.

6. Velveteen by Daniel Marks

This one I am actually starting right now, but it's really good so far. It's about a girl who was murder, and is getting revenge on her murderer by haunting him. Velveteen kicks a**. I'm not that far in the book but I can already tell that I like her.

7. Anna Dressed in Blood by Kendare Blake

If you haven't read Anna yet, this is the perfect time to pick it up. I actually see a lot of people picking this one up during the month of October. While most people hear it's a really scary story, well that's not the full truth. Yes, there are some scary parts but most of it's not too bad. What really drawed me to the story was the main character and his infatuation with Anna, a murderous ghost. Yeah, it's weird.

8. The Ghost and the Goth by Stacey Kade

A popular girl dead and doesn't know where to go. And a loner, who can see, hear, and touch ghost, trying to hide his secret. You know these two are bound to mix up, but it so much better when you read about it. Especially, if you read the entire series.

9. Shade by Jeri Smith-Ready

I am also just starting this one, but so far it's really interesting. The main character can see ghosts and helps them move on. I also see this love triangle going but too bad one of the guys is dead. I am really curious to see how the series continues on like this.

10. Monstrous Beauty by Elizabeth Fama

A really touching, dark story. Our main character doesn't even know she's talking to ghosts and you know before her. Elizabeth twisted a very mysterious, murder tale into a very heartbreaking story. Once you read it, you can't stop thinking about it. Well, at least I can't.

ARC Giveaway: A Fractured Light

2012-09-25T16:30:00.002-06:00

Another unexpected delivery! I just received an Advanced Reader's Copy of A Fractured Light by Jocelyn Davies last week, when I already pre-order a copy of the book. So, this is another ARC giveaway.

We liked to do more of these ARC giveaways, since we have some ARCs that have gone untouched. So, expect some more coming next week.

Also, this is only a United States/Canada Giveaway!

Here are the details for the book:

A Fractured Light
Author: Jocelyn Davies
Publisher: HarperTeen
Release Date: September 25, 2012
Series: A Beautiful Dark #2
Format: ARC
Seek: Goodreads, Amazon

When she wakes up in unfamiliar surroundings, Skye knows something terrible has happened to her. It's not until she hears Asher, the dark, rebellious angel she fell in love with, that the memories come flooding back. She tries to put the past behind her, but she knows she'll be forever haunted by the ruthless betrayal that almost took her life.

Skye returns home, but with the knowledge of who she really is, nothing can ever be the same. As she tests the limits of her newfound powers, Skye discovers that she's capable of far more than anyone could have imagined. Both the Order and the Rebellion want her for their side as war between the factions looms. She can't forget the terrifying truth she now knows about the Order, but something holds her back from embracing the Rebellion.

"A Fractured Light" picks up right after "A Beautiful Dark"'s shocking cliffhanger ending and is perfect for fans of Lauren Kate's "Fallen" and Becca Fitzpatrick's Hush, Hush saga.

Official Contest information:

to enter, please fill out the form below and follow the instructions
entrants must be 13 years of age or older
contest only open to residents in United States or Canada!!!
Contest opened from September 25, 2012 to October 3, 2012
winner will be emailed at the conclusion of the contest
the winner will be notified by email and will have 72 hours to reply or a new winner will be chosen.
DO NOT PUT YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION

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Gabrielle's Review on Silver

2012-09-24T09:27:00.002-06:00

Silver
Author: Talia Vance (@TaliaVance)
Publisher: Flux
Release Date: September 8, 2012
Format: E-Galley
Pages: 384
Source: Netgalley
Rating: Reachable
Series: Bandia #1
The Other Books: Gold
Challenge: Debut Reads of 2012
Extras:
Seek: Amazon, Goodreads

Brianna has always felt invisible. People stare right past her, including the one boy she can't resist, Blake Williams. But everything changes at a house party where Brianna's charm bracelet slips off and time stands still. In that one frozen, silver moment, Blake not only sees her, he recognizes something deep inside her she's been hiding even from herself.

Discovering she is descended from Danu, the legendary Bandia of Celtic myth, Brianna finds herself questioning the truth of who she is. And when she accidentally binds her soul to Blake, their mutual attraction becomes undeniable.

But Blake has his own secret, one that could prove deadly for them both.

Bound together by forbidden magic, Brianna and Blake find themselves at the heart of an ancient feud that threatens to destroy their lives and their love.

I love the cover, because it was what brought me to the story. The girl is wearing a bracelet just like Brianna. I'm not sure where she is but it's really beautiful.

In the silvery light, I see his face above mine, his green eyes ablaze, a half smile on his lips meant only for me. “Mine,” he says softly.

Then he kisses me again, and for a second everything is black, so dark that I wonder if my eyes are closed again. A small sliver of light grows in the center of the darkness, moving just over us. The silver ribbon grows brighter, meeting the dark until the beach is a swirling mass of shadow and starlight.

Darkness and light together. Souls fused and melded. Forever bound.

This book was driving me insane. Sometimes I would hate the book (mostly in the beginning) and other times, I would love it (make out scenes, hello!). I think the reason I hated it was because I didn’t know anything. We get pulled many different ways because you know a character knows something but they aren’t saying anything to the main character, which is us, and it gets frustrating.

There were so many times that I wanted to throw this book across the room and never look at it again. But it was an e-galley, so instead I would just close my computer, all frustrated.

The book was addicting though. I could not stop thinking about everything that happened to the main character, Brianna. Then, I kept thinking about Blake and Austin. Then, there were her friends that were making bad decisions. Then, there was the mystery power that Brianna has and everything that happens around her. My mind was wrapped around this world and I couldn’t unwind myself from it.

Maybe it’s because I am a sucker for a forbidden romance. After some secrets are finally revealed, the romance gets so much better. Even if Blake and Brianna will have to kill the other one, they still have this romance that’s bursting with emotions. How complicated is that romance? At first, they seem to hate each other but you knew, deep inside, that these two are meant for each other.

As for the fantasy, I am still curious about a lot of things. I love the idea how Brianna was hidden. She wears this bracelet, that protects who she really is, and when it comes off, everyone notices her. In a good way, most of the time, however it could also be dangerous.

Finally, the danger. This forbidden love between Brianna and Blake is exciting to read because of the danger. Brianna is a bandia, a demi-god, and has gifts that need to be controlled. She has beauty and power. Blake hunts her type. He was taught that it was either kill or be killed. So, when they bond, Blake tries to stay away from Brianna because he can’t kill her since they now have a connection. Brianna doesn’t want to kill him either, even though she knows that sooner or later, she might be killed by him.

It is so complicated and maddening, but yet, so, so hard to stay away from. When the book finally concludes, I know it’s not enough. I need more. I can’t wait to continue into the next book Gold.

Gold is the next book in the Bandia series. However, Talia Vance has another book coming out before Gold. Spies and Prejudice will be coming out June 2013. Information down below.

Berry Fields is not looking for a boyfriend. She's busy trailing cheaters and liars in her job as a private investigator, collecting evidence of the affairs she's sure all men commit. And thanks to a pepper spray incident during an eighth grade game of spin the bottle, the guys at her school are not exactly lining up to date her, either.

So when arrogant—and gorgeous—Tanner Halston rolls into town and calls her "nothing amazing," it's no loss for Berry. She'll forget him in no time. She's more concerned with the questions surfacing about her mother's death.

But why does Tanner seem to pop up everywhere in her investigation, always getting in her way? Is he trying to stop her from discovering the truth, or protecting her from an unknown threat? And why can't Berry remember to hate him when he looks into her eyes?

With a playful nod to Jane Austen, Spies and Prejudice will captivate readers as love and espionage collide.

Sarah's Review on Speechless

2012-09-22T21:30:00.000-06:00

Speechless
Author: Hannah Harrington (@hharrington_)
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Release Date: August 28, 2012
Format: Paperback
Pages: 288
Source: Bought
Rating: Escapable
Challenge: 2012 Completely Contemp Challenge
Extras: Trailer
Seek: Amazon, Goodreads

Everyone knows that Chelsea Knot can't keep a secret.

Until now. Because the last secret she shared turned her into a social outcast—and nearly got someone killed.

Now Chelsea has taken a vow of silence—to learn to keep her mouth shut, and to stop hurting anyone else. And if she thinks keeping secrets is hard, not speaking up when she's ignored, ridiculed and even attacked is worse.

But there's strength in silence, and in the new friends who are, shockingly, coming her way—people she never noticed before; a boy she might even fall for. If only her new friends can forgive what she's done. If only she can forgive herself.

This cover is so unique. Nothing too much and fancy. It's just simple. When you get the print copy, the spine pops out though.

Keeping secrets isn’t my specialty. It never has been, ever since kindergarten when I found out Becky Swanson had a crush on Tommy Barnes, and I managed to circulate that fact to the entire class, including Tommy himself, within our fifteen minute recess–a pretty impressive feat, in retrospect. That was ten years ago, and it still may hold the record for my personal best.

Chelsea Knot is known for spilling secrets. However, after she tells another secret, things begin to go terribly wrong. After witnessing two guys making out at a party, she finds her best friend to tell her all the detail. Being drunk, she actually tells it to her group of friends. Two guys go after the guy and the guy gets hurt. Chelseafeels like this is her fault and tells the cops who hurt him. This leads to everyone hating Chelsea.

After seeing what happens after telling this one secret, Chelsea has taken a vow of silence. She isn’t talking to anybody and hopes to become invisible. Still her ex-friends are taking out their anger on her. Being a very popular girl, and sometimes mean, no one hesitates to join in hating her.

Chelseahas sometimes moments of doubt. She keeps telling herself that she is stronger and won’t beg for forgiveness from friends that are treating her horribly. There is hope. She begins to make friends with people she would have never given a second glance to when she was popular. This vow of silence is transforming Chelsea into a new person.

Wow. I have heard nothing but good things about Hannah’s writing style, and yet still, I am completely blown away. She had me tearing up in some parts. The happy moments, and of course, the sad ones as well.

The characters were so realistic and lovable. Most of them, anyways. Chelsea, even when she wasn’t talking, was such a great character to get to know. She made mistakes but she tried to make it better. She even had doubts about herself and her choice. She wasn’t sure if she made the right decision on telling the cops the truth. At times, she also regretted telling people about Nick being gay. It was great to see her finally realize that people make mistakes, but when finally understand what you did, you can move on.

As for the other characters, I love the interaction between them all. They all grow on you like a family.

I am so glad I picked up this book, and will be checking out Saving June soon as well. I want thank some people for suggesting this book to me. Laura and Amy, thanks for the recommendation. I will listen to your guys recommendation more in the future.

Author's latest release.

Danny's Review on Firelight

2012-09-22T00:00:00.000-06:00

Firelight
Author: Sophie Jordan
Publisher: HarperTeen
Release Date: September 7, 2010
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 326
Source: Bought
Rating: Reachable
Series: Firelight #1
The Other Books: Vanish, Hidden
Challenge: 2012 TBR Reading Pile Challenge
Extras: Trailer, Facebook
Seek: Amazon, Goodreads

A hidden truth.
Mortal enemies.
Doomed love.

Marked as special at an early age, Jacinda knows her every move is watched. But she longs for freedom to make her own choices. When she breaks the most sacred tenet among her kind, she nearly pays with her life. Until a beautiful stranger saves her. A stranger who was sent to hunt those like her. For Jacinda is a draki, a descendant of dragons whose greatest defense is her secret ability to shift into human form.

Forced to flee into the mortal world with her family, Jacinda struggles to adapt to her new surroundings. The only bright light is Will. Gorgeous, elusive Will who stirs her inner draki to life. Although she is irresistibly drawn to him, Jacinda knows Will's dark secret: He and his family are hunters. She should avoid him at all costs. But her inner draki is slowly slipping awayif it dies she will be left as a human forever. She'll do anything to prevent that. Even if it means getting closer to her most dangerous enemy.

Mythical powers and breathtaking romance ignite in this story of a girl who defies all expectations and whose love crosses an ancient divide.

The cover is really beautiful. I love seeing what Jacinda might look like when she is about to manifest. The shimmering gold is really eye-catching.

He lifts a hand. I don’t even flinch as he closes a broad, warm palm over my arm. Feeling, testing. His touch glides downward, and I’m sure he’s comparing my skin–draki skin–to human skin. His palm stops, flattens over the back of my hand, rests over my long, talonlike fingers. Heat zings through me at the contact.

He feels it, too. His eyes widen. A lovely hazel. Green with flecks of brown and gold. The colors I love. The colors of the earth. That gaze drifts over the wet snarls of my hair brushing the rock floor. I catch myself wishing he could see the girl within the dragon.

This book was kind of in the middle for me. I just read Seraphina by Rachel Hartman, and loved it! It also had dragons that can transform into humans. One of my friends suggested reading Firelight series, because the series has dragons in it as well. However, this book is more of a paranormal romance then fantasy.

I think I was mostly interested in finding out more about the draki. There were parts where I liked the romance and swoon over it. Nevertheless, I am a fantasy fan at heart, so I wanted more of an adventure. I can see that I might be getting more of this from the next book, Vanish.

This book had a lot of . . . circles I guess you can say. We would move forward on one thing and then take two steps back. Jacinda couldn’t make up her mind. I can see why this book could be such a turn off for some people. No one wants the plot to be stuck in repetition.

I understand her choices were hard ones to make because she was worried about her draki disappearing. She didn’t want to live in a desert area, where her draki side would slowly die. She couldn’t believe or understand why her mom wanted to kill an important side of her. She couldn’t get close to Will, because he is a hunter, even though he brings out her draki.

In all honesty, I can understand why her mom wanted to Jacinda to leave her draki past behind. She wanted to protect her family and she also went through the transition from draki to human. She became human to be with her other daughter, Jacinda’s twin, Tamra. Tamra has never felt welcomed in the pride because she never manifested into dragon. She was human to them. Tamra and her mom both didn't want to be in the pride anymore.

In this first book, we pretty much are stuck with all of these indecisive decisions of a teenager. First couple of chapters pulls you in, and it kind of dwindles from there. What kept me reading was me wanting to learn more about Jacinda’s pride, the dragons, and of course, the romance.

I am excited to continue on with the next one. I also heard the third book of the series is the best, so can’t wait to get into Hidden.

Next book in the series is Vanish. You can find out more about this book HERE. From the summary, it looks like we will get more actiony type things going on. Also, I am curious to know who the girl is on this cover.

ARC Giveaway: What's Left of Me

2012-09-18T08:26:00.003-06:00

I, Emilia, just received an unexpected Advanced Reader's Copy yesterday. To my surprise, it wasn't a book I requested. I already received an e-galley of this book through Edelweiss. Not only did I already review this book, but I also got a published copy of the book last week. Since the book releases today, I don't feel bad for giving this ARC away.

But you must know that this is not a finished copy of the book. There were some mistakes in the e-galley I received so, I am guessing there also mistakes in this one too.

Also, since I am paying for shipping out of my own pocket, I can only ship the book to United States/Canada residents.

Here are the details for the book:

What's Left of Me
Author: Kat Zhang
Publisher: HarperTeen
Release Date: September 18, 2012
Series: The Hybrid Chronicles #1
Format: Advanced Reader's Copy
Seek: My Review, Goodreads, Amazon

I should not exist. But I do.

Eva and Addie started out the same way as everyone else—two souls woven together in one body, taking turns controlling their movements as they learned how to walk, how to sing, how to dance. But as they grew, so did the worried whispers. Why aren’t they settling? Why isn’t one of them fading? The doctors ran tests, the neighbors shied away, and their parents begged for more time. Finally Addie was pronounced healthy and Eva was declared gone. Except, she wasn’t . . .

For the past three years, Eva has clung to the remnants of her life. Only Addie knows she’s still there, trapped inside their body. Then one day, they discover there may be a way for Eva to move again. The risks are unimaginable-hybrids are considered a threat to society, so if they are caught, Addie and Eva will be locked away with the others. And yet . . . for a chance to smile, to twirl, to speak, Eva will do anything.

And here is the trailer for the book:

Official Contest information:

to enter, please fill out the form below and follow the instructions
entrants must be 13 years of age or older
contest only open to residents in United States or Canada!!!
Contest opened from September 18, 2012 to September 26, 2012
winner will be emailed at the conclusion of the contest
the winner will be notified by email and will have 72 hours to reply or a new winner will be chosen.
DO NOT PUT YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION

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Ivy's Review on Ten

2012-09-18T07:30:00.000-06:00

Ten
Author: Gretchen McNeil (@GretchenMcNeil)
Publisher: Balzer + Bray
Release Date: September 18, 2012
Format: ARC
Pages: 304
Source: Publisher
Rating: Reachable
Challenge: 2012 Sophomore Reading Challenge
Extras: Trailer, Facebook, Army of Ten
Seek: Amazon, Goodreads

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 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?

I love the font on this cover. It is really eye-catching. Then the taglines at the bottom, make you know that this is a thriller and gets you really excited to read the book.

The number “10” appeared on the screen. It was animated as if it had been written by hand, and then a red slash crossed right through it. “9” and “8” were drawn and slashed through in the same manner, then three images of a beach at night cycled through in rapid succession, all different locations, it seemed, but all with a prominent starry sky and waves breaking across an expanse of sand.

The numbers started again: “7,” “6,” “5,” all with the same red slash marks crossing them out as if they were being counted down. Then more images. This time it was a collage of students in class–taking a test, arguing in some sort of mock trial, doing science experiments, running around a track, glee club.

“4,” “3,” “2,” “1.”

Possess, Gretchen’s first novel, was one of my favorites last year. I read it sometime in October, and couldn’t get over everything that happened in that book. Then, I hear about Ten. Its a thriller and a mystery! And pretty much just everything I want in a book. It even sounded exciting.

“Ten people. Three days. One killer.” I could hear the chilly music playing already.

When I requested this book from the publisher, and actually got a copy, I squealed. I was so excited to start this book. Unfortunately, I am sad to say, that I didn’t love this book as much as I did her first book.

From the beginning of the book, I felt disconnected to the characters. This has never happened to me before so, I just kept on reading. The book did get better as the suspense started to build up. That’s what I love about this book. The suspense. Not the characters.

In Ten, the story starts off with two best friends heading off to an island for a party. Turns out the host of this party hasn’t been able to make it, leaving ten guests on the island by themselves. The thing that got me a little bit disconnected from the characters, because I didn’t believe in the main character Meg’s, and her friendship with Minnie.

Meg was pretty much the mom in this friendship. She was always worrying over Minnie, and Minnie just got on my nerves. I couldn’t take it. Then we meet some of the other characters, and ugh, I just couldn’t connect with any of them, except the killer. Ha, this might say a lot about me, but I pinky swear, I am not crazy. Then the deaths start to began and the book started to get way better.

On a good note, though, I did love the suspense in the novel. Gretchen did have me going in circles on which person was the killer. Finally when the killer is revealed, I actually applaud Gretchen for this. Because I did not see that coming!

So the characters were blah, but the suspense was well done. So, while I didn’t love this book, I did like it. If you like good thrilling novels, you will enjoy this one. And you can be like my brother, who said, “Who cares about the characters anyways? They are all going to die in the end.”.

P.S. The trailer is the video the teens see before the killing starts to happen. Love that!

Gretchen has three upcoming books. 3:59 is pitched as The Parent Trap meets Event Horizon and is planned for a 2013 release. Then a new series titled Don't Get Mad series, with the first book Get Even coming out sometime in 2014. It is pitched as Revenge meets The Breakfast Club. Also, there is a book summary on Goodreads, already, and you can check it out HERE.

Top Ten Tuesday: Authors/Bloggers I Would Love to Meet

2012-09-18T01:22:00.003-06:00

Top Ten Tuesdays is a meme hosted by The Broke and the Bookish. You can find the list of past and upcoming Top Ten Tuesdays, HERE.

This week, you need to list authors or bloggers you would love to meet in real life. Hey everyone, it's just Emilia, here. So down below is my top ten authors I would love to meet! Then at the bottom, I listed bloggers and youtubers, that I would also love to meet in real life.

J. K.Rowling & Christopher Paolini

If you have read either of their books, you will know why we love them and would love to meet them both. I first read Harry Potter in 5th grade in 2002. I was amazed by the story not because of just all the magic. Because this series was also about friendship and family. Love all the characters in that series!

And as for Eragon, I always had a thing for dragons but Christopher Paolini really brought them to life in his series.

John Green & Sarah Dessen

Do I really have to say anything about John Green? I began watching him on Youtube on his channel vlogbrothers. He was such a funny and random guy, that I knew I had to check out his books. My favorite, as of now, is The Fault in Our Stars. So MANY emotions on that book.

As for Sarah Dessen, um, do you see how many books are up there!? Before reading paranormal romance, I was addicted to contemporary and Sarah Dessen was my addiction. I knew before reading any of her books, that I could count on her books to be light and fun. Sometimes, they were the best escape through tough times.

Cassandra Clare & Holly Black
I actually just start the Mortal Instruments series, but I am so hooked! I know I started it way late, but now I can read one book after the other. I have so many questions for Cassandra, but I know I would be to nervous to ask her.

And for Holly Black, I read her Spiderwick series, which she was the co-author. I love the series but I knew I needed to check out her other series for teenagers. First one I picked up was White Cat. I didn't like it at first, but I read it a second time and actually really liked it.

The reason I put these two together is because they are writing a series together. The series is titled Magisterium and it sounds like it is going to be great middle-grade fantasy books. With two amazing authors, how could it be bad?

Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl
Like I said before, it is so sad to see a series come to an end. Fell in love with this series a little late but now that I am all caught up, dying to know what happens in the final book. I would love to meet the authors behind such a great series.

Veronica Roth & Marissa Meyer
After all the amazing stuff I heard about Divergent, I have finally read the book and......LOVE IT. If I ever met Veronica, I know I would be fan-girling her big time. I currently read Insurgent and ah, don't know if I should finish it because I don't want to wait too long on the next book.

As for Marissa Meyer, I actually do get to meet her! Tomorrow :D! I actually made this list last month, when I wasn't sure if I was going to meet her in Denver. That has all changed! I am love with both Cinder and Scarlet. Yes, I got a chance to read the sequel and it is as great as the first book. I am so excited to finally get a chance to meet her.

As for some amazing bloggers and book-vloggers, these are a few I would love to meet!

Jen at A Book and a Latte
Katie at Katie's Book Blog
Priscilla at The Readables
Rachel at Fiktshun
Jessica and Stacy at Chapter Chicks
Jeffery and Jeremy West at TWiYA and Novel Thoughts
Elizzie at Elizziebooks

Emilia's Review on Outpost

2012-09-11T07:00:00.000-06:00

Outpost
Author: Ann Aguirre (@MsAnnAguirre)
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Release Date: September 4, 2012
Format: ARC
Pages: 336
Source: Publisher
Rating: Escapable
Series: Razorland #2
The Other Books: Enclave, Horde
Challenge: Sophomore Reading Challenge
Extras: Trailer, Facebook
Seek: Amazon, Goodreads

Deuce’s whole world has changed. Down below, she was considered an adult. Now, topside in a town called Salvation, she’s a brat in need of training in the eyes of the townsfolk. She doesn’t fit in with the other girls: Deuce only knows how to fight.

To make matters worse, her Hunter partner, Fade, keeps Deuce at a distance. Her feelings for Fade haven’t changed, but he seems not to want her around anymore. Confused and lonely, she starts looking for a way out.

Deuce signs up to serve in the summer patrols—those who make sure the planters can work the fields without danger. It should be routine, but things have been changing on the surface, just as they did below ground. The Freaks have grown smarter. They’re watching. Waiting. Planning. The monsters don’t intend to let Salvation survive, and it may take a girl like Deuce to turn back the tide.

I love how the covers show you kind of where the books are taking place. On the first book, I didn't notice the hand reaching out. On this book, I can see it more clearly. It's so creepy seeing that eye on the cover, because I know what it means. The Freaks are watching the humans.

Salvation had saved me, but its protection came with restrictions. Its rules didn’t permit me to be myself. Yet I’d been part of a community that needed me once. Maybe I would be again.

Someday. Somehow.

After reading Enclave, I was excited to get on with the next book. From where the characters ended on the last book, I knew things were going to change. Like I said on the first book, I usually don’t like reading books about zombies. In this book, we face an even bigger threat. Smart zombies.

One thing you should know is. . .I would have never picked up this series, and stuck with it, if it weren’t for the characters.

After being in the wild, and learning how to survive, Deuce is finally safe. Yet, she feels confined in a prison. In Salvation, only the men are consider strong enough to stand guard against Freaks or Muties. Deuce is starting to feel left out and thinks her abilities could be use somewhere other than inside the home or in school. She wants to be able to fight with the others and protect everyone. She learned how to fight her whole life, and you just can’t take that away.

She finally gets her chance, when the Freaks make a surprise attack. Freaks/Muties are becoming more then what they seem. They aren’t beasts anymore. You will be surprise what you learn about them and how they may not be zombies after all. These new Freaks have the smarts on attacking Salvation. They strategize attacks, cutting Salvation’s resources. Deuce thinks that this is more, then a meal, to them. This is war. Thrills and chills, man, thrills and chills.

One thing I really love was more character growth between the characters. In the first book, there was so much action! In this book, the characters are what keep you in the story. You know them from the first book, but you get a deeper understanding about them. Deuce is learning all of these new things and emotions, that she didn’t know when she was just a Huntress.

Deuce is conflicted because Fade is ignoring her. He thinks she is with Stalker, but what she really wants, is Fade. She sees Stalker as a friend and a skilled fighter. With Fade, there are some deep emotions between those two. Ah, I love all the moments between them.

You can’t even guess how many times I held my breath, because even I don’t know. The last time I felt this much worry and pressure for a character, was in The Hunt by Andrew Fukuda. I kept telling myself that the main character has to survive or the book would have ended already. When it did end, I found myself with all this built up thoughts. I need to know what's going to happen next.

Horde, the third and final book in the series, will be out sometime in 2013.

Ivy's Review on Carnival of Souls

2012-09-10T23:00:00.000-06:00

Carnival of Souls
Author: Melissa Marr (@melissa_marr)
Publisher: HarperCollins
Release Date: September 4, 2012
Format: ARC
Pages: 306
Source: Publisher
Rating: Escapable
Series: Carnival of Souls #1
The Other Books: Theatre of Deceit
Challenge: None
Extras: Trailer, Facebook, Website
Seek: Amazon, Goodreads

In a city of daimons, rigid class lines separate the powerful from the power-hungry. And at the heart of The City is the Carnival of Souls, where both murder and pleasure are offered up for sale. Once in a generation, the carnival hosts a deadly competition that allows every daimon a chance to join the ruling elite. Without the competition, Aya and Kaleb would both face bleak futures--if for different reasons. For each of them, fighting to the death is the only way to try to live.

All Mallory knows of The City is that her father--and every other witch there--fled it for a life in exile in the human world. Instead of a typical teenage life full of friends and maybe even a little romance, Mallory scans quiet streets for threats, hides herself away, and trains to be lethal. She knows it's only a matter of time until a daimon finds her and her father, so she readies herself for the inevitable. While Mallory possesses little knowledge of The City, every inhabitant of The City knows of her. There are plans for Mallory, and soon she, too, will be drawn into the decadence and danger that is the Carnival of Souls.

From Melissa Marr, bestselling author of the Wicked Lovely series and "Graveminder," comes a brand-new tale of lush secrets, dark love, and the struggle to forge one's own destiny.

The cover, for once, didn't really intrigue me. The title of the book was what caught my eye. White masks are worn by witches in the City. I think this is supposed to be a symbol of an another war igniting between witches and daimons.

Here at the center, though, was a place of business and pleasure. Music played constantly. Blind drummers played outside the tents where delicate deals were arranged; ensembles in the employ of the pleasure vendors enticed customers with their music as dancers demonstrated their flexibility; and others simply played for the coins that were tossed into their baskets. At times it was a glorious cacophony. Jugglers and fire twirlers showed their skills in time to the music. All the while, hawkers sold their wares to those ensnared by the music, sometimes literally.

For all the violence in the The City—much of it in the carnival—there was beauty, too, especially here. As he walked, Kaleb’s steps caught the rhythm of a daimon who leaned against a vendor stall, tapping out patterns on a skin drum. The daimon had his eyes closed, and Kaleb smiled at the joy in the man’s face.

I have read one other book from Melissa Marr and it was Wicked Lovely. People kept telling me I needed to read that book and when I finally did, I wasn’t too impressed by it. So, when I heard about this book, I tried to stay away from all the hype and reviews. I wanted my own thoughts on the book.

Just like Wicked Lovely, I was confused at first. Confused, yet entertained. I didn’t expect to have so many points of views in one book. I really like it! In YA, you always get books written in first point of view. Never multiple characters. I always see that in adult fantasy books though and in some middle-grade books, but never YA. We need more books like this!

As for the world-setting, I am always fascinated by how well Melissa can bring me into her worlds. The City is the location of the Carnival of Souls and daimons. The City is ruled by Marchosias. Daimons have taken control of the city and banned witches into the human world. Higher classes have the most power in the City and are respected by the lower classes. Lower classes are pretty much treated like dirt. I could clearly picture the City and the main event, the Carnival of Souls. My favorite scene was when Aya and Belias were matched up against each other. It is one of the first scenes you get about the book and it gets you hooked. I was excited to see more from Aya! She is my favorite character in the book.

The characters! There are so many you get to meet. Melissa made it easy to identify which character is who, even the minor characters. Mallory, who lives in the human world, was always taught to hate daimons and was trained to kill them. She is tired of running from them and just wants to live her life. However, Adam, her dad, is keeping secrets about who Mallory really is and the world she comes from. Mallory is the daughter of the ruler of the City, Marchosias.

Now to the fighters! Kaleb, a lower-class cur, is participating in the Carnival of Souls. He joins the fight because he wants to become higher-class to have a safer and richer life for him and his pack-mate Zevi. Being a cur, he does side jobs to earn money. One of his jobs is to find Mallory. Finally, there’s Aya, the only higher-class woman in the Carnival of Souls. She has joined so she can escape her fate of being a wife and giving birth to heirs. She has a secret of her own, that I am not willing to spill.

One thing to take note before reading...there aren't that many fights. I was disappointed because since the book was titled Carnival of Souls, I expected more than just a few fights. This book was more about the characters discovering who they are or what they want most in their lives. While I love this part, I am still disappointed by the lack of action. I do hope for more in the sequel.

If I didn’t know there was a second book coming out, I would be so pissed. The way it ended, I still had so many questions about some things. You can definitely count on me reading the second book next year.

The next book is to be titled Theatre of Deceit and is set for a 2013 release. I hoping that doesn't change. So far, this series looks like it is only going to be two books.

Danny's Review on Fury

2012-09-06T20:00:00.000-06:00

Fury
Author: Elizabeth Miles (@MilesBooks)
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Release Date: August 21, 2012
Format: Paperback
Pages: 400
Source: Publisher
Rating: Reachable
Series: Fury Trilogy #1
The Other Books: Envy, Eternity
Challenge: None
Extras: Trailer, Trailer #2, Facebook
Seek: Amazon, Goodreads

In this chilling start to a trilogy rife with revenge, two teens learn the hard way: Sometimes sorry isn’t enough.It’s winter break in Ascension, Maine. The snow is falling and everything looks pristine and peaceful. But not all is as it seems...

Between cozy traditions and parties with her friends, Emily loves the holidays. And this year’s even better—the guy she’s been into for months is finally noticing her. But Em knows if she starts things with him, there’s no turning back. Because his girlfriend is Em’s best friend.

On the other side of town, Chase is having problems of his own. The stress of his home life is starting to take its toll, and his social life is unraveling. But that’s nothing compared to what’s really haunting him. Chase has done something cruel...something the perfect guy he pretends to be would never do. And it’s only a matter of time before he’s exposed.

In Ascension, mistakes can be deadly. And three girls—three beautiful, mysterious girls—are here to choose who will pay. Em and Chase have been chosen.

The only I like about this cover is the flowers. I am a big orchid fan. I am big fan of the first cover though. It had more mysterious look to it. This one just looks like a girl lying in flowers.

Out of the snowy fog emerged one girl, then two more. Chase couldn't help but let his jaw drop a bit; these chicks were amazing. The one in front, a redhead with fair skin, was smiling. The other two—one white-blond and a little curvy, the other petite with wavy, honey-colored hair and a scarlet ribbon tied around her neck like a choker—stood behind her with serious expressions on their gorgeous faces. All three of them seemed to be enveloped in some sort of white light; probably the moon playing tricks with the snow.

From the summary, I was expecting more of a fantasy, mixed with a little bit of a mystery, type book. It took me forever to get into this novel. Usually I would stop reading a book if it didn’t grip me in by 100 pages. But after I got to 100, I kept telling myself to just keep going, it will get better. It did get kind of better, but the book as a whole, was not what I expected it to be.

The book had me hooked in the first couple pages. This girl is trying to commit suicide but she doesn’t know why she wants to. Then the book turned into some high school drama. This is fine, since this is a young adult book. But it is supposed to be a fantasy book as well. I felt like the book was lacking on the fantasy part.

I knew that the three mysterious girls are supposed to Furies. I am huge fan of Greek Mythology. So, I was expecting these Furies to do way more then what they did. To me, they could have been these crazed girls, who enjoy messing with people’s lives.

As for the main characters, I thought the author did a great job on them. Emily has this thing for her best friend’s boyfriend, Zach. She starts to think that maybe Zach has the same feelings for her as well. They hook up during Christmas break and Emily is head over heels about him. She still feels guilty because they are hooking up behind Gabby’s back. I found her story more interesting than Chase’s.

I felt a little distant to Chase. I really did try to like him. Sometimes, I felt bad for him. I just couldn’t get into his romance with Ty, one of the Furies. Most of the book, that’s what his point of view was about. It was Ty this and Ty that, and it was becoming repetitive. Towards the ending, it really started to pick up and his part became very interesting.

I will continue on to the next book Envy, because the book was great towards end and I like the author’s writing. I think the reason this book wasn’t doing it for me was because I wanted more from it. I do think I will be able to get this from the sequel.

Envy, just recently released, is the sequel to Fury. I don't want to say too much about this book because it can ruin the first book.

You can read all about the book on it's Goodreads page HERE. From the summary, I know I am going to enjoy this one more than the first. Well, at least, I'm hoping I will. You will find out all my thoughts soon, because I starting it right now.

Emilia's Review on What's Left of Me

2012-09-05T23:17:00.000-06:00

What's Left of Me
Author: Kat Zhang (@KatZhang)
Publisher: HarperTeen
Release Date: September 18, 2012
Format: E-galley
Pages: 356
Source: Publisher
Rating: Escapable
Series: The Hybrid Chronicles #1
The Other Books:
Challenge: Debut Reads of 2012
Extras: Facebook
Seek: Goodreads, Amazon

Eva and Addie started out the same way as everyone else—two souls woven together in one body, taking turns controlling their movements as they learned how to walk, how to sing, how to dance. But as they grew, so did the worried whispers. Why aren’t they settling? Why isn’t one of them fading? The doctors ran tests, the neighbors shied away, and their parents begged for more time. Finally Addie was pronounced healthy and Eva was declared gone. Except, she wasn’t…

For the past three years, Eva has clung to the remnants of her life. Only Addie knows she’s still there, trapped inside their body. Then one day, they discover there may be a way for Eva to move again. The risks are unimaginable–hybrids are considered a threat to society, so if they are caught, Addie and Eva will be locked away with the others. And yet…for a chance to smile, to twirl, to speak, Eva will do anything.

I am in love with this cover. I think the cover matches the two souls in one body idea. Addie is the main body, but Eva is there, lingering, watching, and waiting.

I was terrified. I was eleven years old, and though I’d been told my entire short life that it was only natural for the recessive soul to fade away, I didn’t want to go. I wanted twenty thousand more sunrises, three thousand more hot summer days at the pool. I wanted to know what it was like to have a first kiss. The other recessives were lucky to have disappeared at four or five. They knew less.

Maybe that’s why things turned out the way they did. I wanted life too badly. I refused to let go. I didn’t completely fade away.

To me, the beginning was a slow start. Every person born is born with two souls. Two souls, one body. But one soul is supposed to fade away when they are a child. Sometimes, the soul doesn’t want to leave. Addie is the dominant soul of the body. She has to make everyone believe she has settled, and Eva disappeared. Eva is still here though. She never left.

I am torn between simply liking this book and loving it. I think the reason is because I wanted to know more about the Great Wars, the Hybrids, and the government. You get details here and there but not enough to satisfy you. I liked how Kat Zhang stuck to her main characters thoughts about Hybrids and how Addie/Eva didn’t really want to talk about it because they are one. I think that’s why readers don’t get much information about Hybrids. Eva didn’t want to think Hybrids as bad people, because that means she might be bad.

I could see why, where Eva live, people didn’t like Hybrids. Hybrids are different and to have two souls in one body, can be difficult. Like Addie and Eva, they had moments were they fought. And when Addie couldn’t concentrate on what’s going on the outside, things happen. Hybrids are unpredictable which makes them dangerous.

Yet that was the only problem I found. The writing, on the other hand, was brilliant.

When I first heard about this book, I thought Addie would be the main character since she’s the dominant soul. Nope. Instead, readers get Eva’s perspective, which to me was more heartbreaking. Eva is pretty much a ghost stuck in a body. All she has is her thoughts which she can only share with Addie. And that could be pretty lonely, especially when they fight. With some help from some friends, Eva is slowly learning how to get her control back. It is such a great moment to be there for Eva’s firsts. Her first words, her first time opening her eyes, and there were just so many more moments like this, and you are in awe.

It was just so different to read from this perspective, it made the story so much more intriguing.

Then someone discovers their friend Hally/Lissa, who are also a hybrid, and see the connection between them and Addie/Eva. They are discovered. That’s when everything starts to really happen. That’s all I can say because it will ruin the story. Oh, but there is also a slow romance growing.

Overall thoughts: The book was amazing and unforgettable. It did have a slow start but it picks up after awhile. I think the author did wonderful job writing from a different perspective. The characters, and there were many, weren’t hard to identify. There were some surprises because being a hybrid, you have two different people talking or controlling the body.

And in the end, I kind of wish I was a Hybrid. You see how close Addie and Eva are and you kind of want another soul as well. Always there with you, through it all.

This is just the first book in the Hybrid Chronicles. No news on the sequel's title, cover, or release date.

Fierce Reads: The Science Fiction Giveaway

2012-09-04T13:34:00.000-06:00

September Cover Giveaway is all about Fierce Reads! Check all the info for the September Giveaway HERE.

Team Science Fiction has all the thrills. From zombies to cyborgs, you don't want to miss these reads. We are giving two prizes in this giveaway, which are listed below. All you have to do to enter is like Fierce Reads Facebook! Then, of course, there are a lot of extra entries you can also do.

This is just for Team Science Fiction. You can also join Team Fantasy HERE.

Grand Prize Winner will get...

(1) signed paperback copy of Enclave by Ann Aguirre

(1) signed hardcover copy of Outpost by Ann Aguirre

(1) pre-order copy of Crewel by Gennifer Albin

(1) hardcover copy of Monument 14 by Emmy Laybourne

1 Winner will get...

(1) signed hardcover copy of Cinder by Marissa Meyer

(1) hardcover copy of Struck by Jennifer Bosworth

Official Contest information:

THIS IS ONLY FOR Team Science Fiction!!
to enter, please fill out the form below and follow the instructions
entrants must be 13 years of age or older
contest open to International!!
Contest opened from September 4, 2012 to September 30, 2012
all winners will be emailed at the conclusion of the contest
the 2 winners will be notified by email and will have 72 hours to reply or new winners will be chosen.
DO NOT PUT YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Fierce Reads: The Fantasy Giveaway

2012-09-04T13:07:00.001-06:00

September Cover Giveaway is all about Fierce Reads! Check all the info for the September Giveaway HERE.

Team Fantasy is really exciting. From mermaids to necromancer, you don't want to miss these reads. We are giving two prizes in this giveaway, which are listed below. All you have to do to enter is like Fierce Reads Facebook. Then, of course, there are a lot of extra entries you can do.

This is just for Team Fantasy. You can also join Team Science Fiction HERE.

Grand Prize Winner will get...

(1) signed paperback copy of Hold Me Closer, Necromancer by Lish McBride

(1) signed hardcover copy of Necromancing the Stone by Lish McBride

(1) pre-order copy of The Shadow Society by Marie Rutkoski

(1) hardcover copy of Of Poseidon by Anna Banks

1 Winner will get...

(1) signed hardcover copy of Monstrous Beauty by Elizabeth Fama

(1) hardcover copy of Shadow & Bone by Leigh Bardugo

Official Contest information:

THIS IS ONLY FOR Team Fantasy!!
to enter, please fill out the form below and follow the instructions
entrants must be 13 years of age or older
contest open to International!!
Contest opened from September 4, 2012 to September 30, 2012
all winners will be emailed at the conclusion of the contest
the 2 winners will be notified by email and will have 72 hours to reply or new winners will be chosen.
DO NOT PUT YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS IN THE COMMENTS SECTION

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Are You Ready to be Fierce?

2012-09-04T07:30:00.003-06:00

August Cover Giveaway has ended and now is time for September. It's going to be fierce.

That's right folks! The theme for the month of September is Fierce Reads. Emilia is going to the Fierce Reads tour stop in Denver, CO on September 19. The authors that are attending this event are Marissa Meyer (Cinder), Elizabeth Fama (Monstrous Beauty), Lish McBride (Hold Me Closer, Necromancer), and Ann Aguirre (Enclave). That means there will be signed copies to giveaway! Yeah! Check out the Fierce Reads video below:

Starting today, a post will go up for each team. Yes, both teams will be going on all month instead of split into two weeks each. On September 30, we will have rounded up all of the entries to see which team has the most and do a contest on Twitter for one book for one lucky follower! The choice of book will depend on the winner and whatever team gets the most entries. More details on the Twitter giveaway September 29.

We also added some past fierce reads to the giveaway, to make this a really fun giveaway. Struck by Jennifer Bosworth, Monument 14 by Emmy Laybourne, Of Poseidon by Anna Banks, and Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo were all given to us by Macmillian. And to say a big THANK YOU to them, to enter any of these giveaways, you have to like their Fierce Reads facebook page. Thanks Macmillian!

Team Science Fiction

Grand Prize Winner will win:

1 signed copy of Enclave by Ann Aguirre

1 signed copy of Outpost by Ann Aguirre

1 pre-order copy of Crewel by Gennifer Albin

1 copy of Monument 14 by Emmy Laybourne

1 Winner will win:

1 signed copy of Cinder by Marissa Meyer

1 copy of Struck by Jennifer Bosworth

Team Fantasy

Grand Prize Winner will win:

1 signed copy of Hold Me Closer, Necromancer by Lish McBride

1 signed copy of Necromancing the Stone by Lish McBride

1 pre-order copy of The Shadow Society by Marie Rutkoski

1 copy of Of Poseidon by Anna Banks

1 Winner will win:

1 signed copy of Monstrous Beauty by Elizabeth Fama

1 copy of Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo

By 12:00 a.m. central, I should have all the giveaways up and ready to go. I am so excited to get to meet these amazing authors and I will, of course, take lots of pictures to show you guys. Are you guys excited?

Top Ten Tuesday - Fall TBR List

2012-09-04T05:43:00.000-06:00

Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by the Broke and the Bookish. This week's topic is what's on your Fall to-be-read pile. There are so many books coming out these upcoming months, it was hard to choose. Here's our top picks we want to read. We separated them into genres, to show you guys our top picks for that genre.

Fantasy

Touched by Corrine Jackson is about a girl named Remy who is a different type of healer. Remy heals people but takes their pain and puts it in herself. Then there's Asher. Asher scarifices his senses to become immortal. To get his senses back, he needs to kill Remy. He's not the only one that needs to kill her though.

Days of Blood and Starlight by Laini Taylor is the sequel to the fantastic first book, The Daughter of Smoke and Bone. Need we say more?

Thiller/Horror
Velveteen by Daniel Marks is about girl who got murdered and is seeking for revenge beyond the grave. But crossing into the living has some consequences. Velveteen, however, likes to break rules. Especially, when it comes to a hot co-worker.

The Evolution of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin is the sequel to The Unbecoming by Mara Dyer. The first book left off on a BIG cliffhanger and we need to know what happens next.

Historical Fiction
The Diviners by Libba Bray. Evie is sent to live in New York City, which she is very excited for. She, however, didn't expect the murders. She has a gift that can help find the murderer. That is, if the murderer doesn't get her first. Murder, mystery, and possibly, magic! 600 pages with all that goodness! Sign me up.

Venom by Fiona Paul is set in Renaissance Venice, Italy. Another historical fiction with some murder mystery. Under all the elegance and glamour, there is something sinister hiding. Cassandra is in the midst of it all.

Paranormal
Can we just say that we are sad to see some great series.....come to end? After the first three books in the Caster Chronicles and the Hush, Hush Saga, Beautiful Redemption and Finale are the end of everything.

Beautiful Redemption by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl follows a couple Lena and Ethan stuck in a world magic and fantasy, and the dangers that come with that. In the final book, Lena and Ethan are willing to do anything to get back together, even if it means trusting past enemies.

Finale by Becca Fitzpatrick is about the couple Nora and Patch in a world angels, fallen angels, and nephilims. Finale is the going to be the final battle for Nora and Patch's love and danger of the worlds their in.

Science Fiction
Black City by Elizabeth Richards is about a city where Darklings and humans are separated by wall, after a terrible war. However, this wall can't separate a couple named Ash and Natalie. This love could be the death of them, because Darklings and humans are to stay separated. And because of this love, there might be another war.

The Darkest Minds by Alexandra Bracken. Set in the future, Ruby has a dangerous power and because of it, she is sent to rehabilitation center by her parents. Six years later, Ruby escapes and runs away to join a group of rebel kids. Her power is one of the strongest and because of it, the rebels want to use her to take down the government. Before the end comes, her choice will not only effect her but the others that need her to save them.

Those are our picks for this upcoming Fall. What are yours?