Literary Exploration

Blog Tour Review and GIveaway: That Time I Joined the Circus by J.J. Howard

2013-03-28T12:00:00.000-07:00

That Time I Joined the Circus by J.J. Howard
Expected Publication Date: April 1st, 2013
Publisher: Scholastic Point
Page Count: 272 pages
Format: ARC
Source: Blog Tour
Goodreads | Books Inc.

Lexi Ryan just ran away to join the circus, but not on purpose.

A music-obsessed, slightly snarky New York City girl, Lexi is on her own. After making a huge mistake--and facing a terrible tragedy--Lexi has no choice but to track down her long-absent mother. Rumor has it that Lexi's mom is somewhere in Florida with a traveling circus.

When Lexi arrives at her new, three-ring reality, her mom isn't there . . . but her destiny might be. Surrounded by tigers, elephants, and trapeze artists, Lexi finds some surprising friends and an even more surprising chance at true love. She even lucks into a spot as the circus's fortune teller, reading tarot cards and making predictions.

But then Lexi's ex-best friend from home shows up, and suddenly it's Lexi's own future that's thrown into question.

With humor, wisdom, and a dazzlingly fresh voice, this debut reminds us of the magic of circus tents, city lights, first kisses, and the importance of an excellent playlist.

I think everyone can make the claim that at some point, life just gets so hard that all we want to do is run away and join the circus. The flashing lights, clanking rides, jarring music, musty smells, and carnies are both alluring and terrifying in their own ways. When life kicks Lexi while she's down, she makes the decision to take what little possessions she has left and skip town, headed for the Circus Europa. Once she's surrounded by the mystery and intrigue of circus life, things can only go up, right? That Time I Joined the Circus is a heart-warming and musical story about finding yourself in a mixed up world. Quick, witty, and emotionally appealing, J.J. Howard had me from page one.

Lexi is definitely a character that I could easily relate to. Her teenage struggles are universal in the sense that we all experience a time in life when things seem hopeless. Although it seems like she gives up at one point, I really admire Lexi's ambition and fortitude. Her unwillingness to let life bring her down is inspirational. Sometimes all we really need is an adventure to bring us back down to earth. I have to warn you, there's a bit of a love pentagon going on in this story, and I didn't particularly care for any of the love interests. I understand that a bit of romance is somewhat necessary in most stories, but I felt like the romance was just a distraction from Lexi's real motivations. However, I am happy that she didn't let any of them completely control her choices.

The story itself is quirky and fun; I mean, who doesn't love a good circus tale? As someone who has recently gone through some major life changes, I really appreciated Howard's focus on the steps that need to be taken to really find oneself. The message she highlights is incredibly encouraging. I love the sense of adventure that Howard imposes on readers - taking chances is the best way to figure out who you really are and what you crave out of life. Also, the way that the inner workings of the circus are displayed really grabbed me. It was interesting to see how the circus performers interacted with each other, forming one giant family in a place where everyone has lost something. Howard's writing style is great, simplistic and witty, she really captures the teenage voice.

Overall, I definitely enjoyed That Time I Joined the Circus. The story itself is fast-paced and fun, and the characters are all easy to love. If you're looking for something to spark inspiration in your life I'd, without a doubt, recommend this one. Lexi takes her struggles and overcomes them, using her hardships as inspiration to find happiness in other parts of her life. Life can be tumultuous and as someone who has experienced the trials and tribulations that it throws at us, I definitely enjoyed this great novel about simply running away and finding yourself in a completely different world. I think that most of us would choose circus life over high school any day.

About the Author:
J.J. Howard is wearing headphones right now, most likely. She grew up in York, Pennsylvania, obsessed with music, movies, television, and pop culture. You can call her if you ever need to phone a friend for trivia on any of the above topics, but don’t ask about sports, because she is hopeless at those (along with math). J.J. graduated from Dickinson College with a BA in English and Tiffin University with an MH in Humanities. She has been some of her students’ favorite English teacher for a quite a few years (she even has a mug somewhere to prove it). THAT TIME I JOINED THE CIRCUS is her first young adult novel. J.J. would love to hear from her readers and is always ready to trade playlists.
Twitter | Facebook | Website

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Check out the rest of the stops on the tour:

3/27: Blog Tour Kick Off – Through the Looking Glass

3/28: Literary Exploration: Book Review

3/29: The Book Cellar: Author Favorites List

3/30: Nick’s Book Blog: Guest Post – Top Five YA’s and Top Five TBR

3/31: The Hollow Cupboards: Guest Post - Authors/Stories that Inspired Me the Most

4/1: Forever 17 Books: Top Ten Guilty Pleasures

4/2: Emilie’s Book World: Favorite Circus Attractions

4/3: Novel Sounds: Author Playlist

4/4: Nawanda Files: Author Interview

4/5: Hobbitsies: Advice for Teen Writers

4/6: Through the Looking Glass: Book Review

4/7: The Book Vortex: Guest Post – Seven Random Facts about JJ Howard

4/8: Stalking the Bookshelves: A Day in the Life of JJ Howard

4/9: Word Spelunking: Author Interview

4/10:The Busy Bibliophile: Top Seven Things I Would Like to Collect

4/11: Through the Looking Glass – Wrap Up Post

NYMBC Event - Jodi Meadows, Brodi Ashton, & Cynthia Hand!!

2013-03-01T11:41:00.001-08:00

YOU GUYZZ!!! Look at this freakin amazing event!! Brodi Ashton, Cynthia Hand, and Jodi Meadows are all coming to Books Inc. in Mountain View and it is going to be AMAZING!!!! I've been dying to get Jodi Meadows out here, and the last time Brodi Ashton and Cynthia Hand came out to the Bay I was working >_<

Event Details:

- Saturday, March 16th at 5PM

- Books Inc. Mountain View

- RSVP to the Facebook event! https://www.facebook.com/events/163696933780745/ to see who else is coming and for more information :)

Featured authors:

Brodi Ashton (Everneath)

Cynthia Hand (Unearthly)

Jodi Meadows (Incarnate)

If you can't make the event but you still want to get signed copies of the author's books, all you need to do is call the store - 650.485.1234 - by at least an hour before the event, and you'll be able to order signed books, personalized to you, and have them shipped! It's that easy!!!

Blog Tour: Dualed by Elsie Chapman - Guest Post and Giveaway!

2013-02-28T08:02:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the Dualed blog tour, hosted by Sarah at The Book Life! Dualed is an exciting, fast-paced dystopian and the debut novel for author Elsie Chapman. We're so excited to be promoting Elsie and her book and we are so grateful to you for stopping by to join in on the fun! If you've already read and loved Dualed, feel free to help us spread the love. If you haven't read it yet, then we hope we can get you excited for it!

You or your Alt? Only one will survive.

The city of Kersh is a safe haven, but the price of safety is high. Everyone has a genetic Alternate—a twin raised by another family—and citizens must prove their worth by eliminating their Alts before their twentieth birthday. Survival means advanced schooling, a good job, marriage—life.

Fifteen-year-old West Grayer has trained as a fighter, preparing for the day when her assignment arrives and she will have one month to hunt down and kill her Alt. But then a tragic misstep shakes West’s confidence. Stricken with grief and guilt, she’s no longer certain that she’s the best version of herself, the version worthy of a future. If she is to have any chance of winning, she must stop running not only from her Alt, but also from love . . . though both have the power to destroy her.

Was music a part of your writing process? Do you have DUALED playlist that you can share?

I listened to music constantly while I was writing DUALED, actually, and still do now! Except I tend to listen to the same songs over and over again while writing or editing, simply because I need my music to become white noise. I do this with movies, too, where I’ll watch the same one multiple times a day and just tune it out while I work. It drives my family nuts, to tell you the truth.
It’s been so long since I wrote DUALED that I can’t remember all the songs, and I never did remember to write up a list. But I listened to a lot of Snow Patrol, Eminem, Kings of Leon, Coldplay, The Killers, and Arcade Fire.
Some great songs from Elsie’s DUALED bands:
Snow Patrol – “Set Fire to the Third Bar” (feat. Martha Wainwright)
Arcade Fire – “Rebellion (Lies)”
Coldplay – “The Scientist”
Kings of Leon – “Crawl”

Have you read DUALED yet? What are some songs you thought of while reading??

------------------------------------------------ABOUT THE AUTHOR-------------------------------------------

Elsie grew up in Prince George, BC, before graduating from the University of British Columbia with a BA in English Literature. She currently lives in Vancouver with her husband and two kids, where she writes to either movies on a loop or music turned up way too loud (and sometimes both at the same time).

She's repped by The Chudney Agency, and her debut novel, DUALED, published by Random House is out NOW! The sequel, DIVIDED, will be published February, 2014.

Find Elsie on Tumblr, Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest.

She's also a contributing member of Friday the Thirteeners and The Lucky 13s group author blogs.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2/25/13 Sarah @ The Book Life – Tour kick-off and Interview w/ Elsie

2/26/13 Jenna @ Making the Grade - Guest Post

2/27/13 Kristan @ Lost Amongst the Shelves - Review

2/28/13 Anna @ Literary Exploration - Guest Post

3/1/13 Inky @ Book Haven Extraordinaire - Review

3/2/13 Joli @ Actin’ Up with Books - Guest Post

3/4/13 Sara @ Forever 17 Books - Review

3/5/13 Tara @ Hobbitsies - Guest Post

3/6/13 Lilian @ A Novel Toybox - Guest Post

3/7/13 Kayla @ Bibliophilia, Please - Review

3/8/13 Emily @ Emily's Crammed Bookshelf - Review

3/9/13 Michelle @ Passionate Bookworm - Review

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Teaser Tuesday - A Midsummer Night's Scream by R.L. Stine

2013-02-26T07:53:00.000-08:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.

A Midsummer Night's Scream by R.L. Stine
Expected Publication Date: July 2nd, 2013
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Page Count: 250 pages
Goodreads | Books Inc.

The master of horror takes on the master of theater!

Get ready for laughter to turn into screams in R.L. Stine's re-imagining of Shakespeare's classic romantic comedy A Midsummer Night's Dream.

Everyone knows that Mayhem Manor is cursed. After production on the horror film was stopped due to a series of mysterious deaths, it became a Hollywood legend--which makes it perfect for Claire and her family. If they can successfully finish the film, it should be enough to save their ailing movie studio.

Sure, the old haunted house is creepy, and strange stuff has been happening, but this is Claire's chance. Her chance to become the movie star she's always dreamed and her chance to finally convince her friend Jake that she is girlfriend material. Of course, the fact that Jake thinks he's in love with her best friend, Delia, who is crushing hard on Jake's friend Shawn, who insists on following Claire around, could be a problem, but Claire is sure she can figure it out. After all, the course of true love never did run smooth.

But once shooting starts, "creepy and strange" morph into "bloody and deadly," as the lines between film and reality begin to blur...

My Teaser

"One hand on the wheel, one hand around Darlene's shoulders, Tony pounded the gas pedal, and the van roared over the bumps and pits of the narrow dirt road. Leaning against the window on Darlene's right, Sue gritted her teeth and absorbed every jolt and jerk in silence. Tony was driving too fast, trying to impress Darlene, and Sue had to fight down her fear." - ARC page 3

Is anyone else super excited for R.L. Stine's new book?!?! Me too :)

Blog Tour - Keeper of the Black Stones: Author Guest Post

2013-02-22T00:00:00.000-08:00

Keeper of the Black Stones by PT McHugh
Expected Publication Date:
Publisher:
Page Count:
Goodreads | Books Inc.

Awkward in his own skin, shy around girls and worried about anything and everything, Jason Evans is just like a million other teenage boys in high school, with one very large exception: he has been given a gift that allows him to jump through time. A set of stones has fallen into his lap that gives him access to any place - and any time - that he chooses. But along with that gift comes the responsibility of stopping the man who is using those very stones to travel through time and change history for his own purposes. A man who is now holding Jason's grandfather hostage, and threatening the world's very existence. Jumping through time with his best friend and body guard, Jason must enter the world of Medieval England, learn its customs, navigate unimaginable danger, and help Henry VII win the Battle of Bosworth, in the name of finding his grandfather, rescuing a beautiful girl from the clutches of a corrupt church, and destroying the one man who pledges to turn history inside out.

Why did I choose to write YA, and what are my inspirations?

“Dad, don’t embarrass us!” Those words are uttered quite frequently by my two daughters, who are both my inspiration and my test subjects in regard to how the younger generation thinks and acts

To be honest, my girls aren’t quite teenagers. Although my twelve year old believes she is in fact going on eighteen, and should have her own apartment and car by now. Thanks to her, music, movies, texting etiquette, and a refreshed vocabulary for a modern 21^st-century teenager are at my fingertips 24/7, providing me with an excellent reference. I just have to look across the table at her to see how a young adult lives and thinks.

Even with all the differences, though – technology, the world, the quicker aging of young people – I’ve come to realize that teenagers now are a lot like they were twenty, thirty, and even forty years ago. They certainly have more now than I ever did … computers, iPhones, Twitter, Facebook, instant information at your fingertips (remember when you actually had to go to the library to do your research?). But in the end, everybody’s teenage years contain a lot of the same problems and challenges – relationships, fitting in, questioning authority (parents), wondering what they’ll be when the grow up, wondering whether they even want to grow up (I don’t believe I ever did). And many of us never grow out of those questions. In that way, we’re all still teenagers at heart.

That’s why I chose to YA. I can still identify with so many of those questions, which makes it easier to write. What’s more, I know that those years – the years when you’re so lonely and doubtful about who you are – are also the years when you form yourself. It’s when you have your first love, first heartbreak, dreams, anxiety, fear, euphoria … and all those feelings are compounded by a boatload of testosterone and estrogen. It’s a roller coaster on crack, and we’ve all ridden it. All those ups and downs make for amazing, realistic characters and stories, and I can’t imagine writing about anything else.

Now, I realize that I’m forty years old and a lot of people won’t believe that I can remember those years in my own life. But guess what, I do. In fact, some of the characters, the town, and many of the day-to-day situations in my books come from my own experiences. That means I get to relive my childhood through my characters, and – even better – put them into situations I never had to deal with.

About the Author:
PT McHugh didn’t start out as a storyteller. He was, however, born into a family that encouraged imagination. He became a fan of history in school and then went to college to become a construction engineer, to build a world of straight lines, angles, and equations.

He was just as surprised as everyone else when he realized that he believed in magic, and might just know the secret of how to jump through time. Since then, he’s been researching the possibility and learning everything he can about history. Just in case the opportunity arises.

PT was born and raised in New Hampshire and currently lives in Raleigh, North Carolina with his wife, two daughters, and a dog named Bob, daring to dream of alternate worlds and cheering for his beloved New England Patriots.
Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Website

Check out the rest of the tour stops

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Teaser Tuesday - Madman's Daughter by Megan Shepherd

2013-02-19T08:09:00.001-08:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.

The Madman's Daughter by Megan Shepherd
Publication Date: January 29th, 2013
Publisher: Balzer + Bray
Page count: 420 pages
Goodreads | Books Inc.

In the darkest places, even love is deadly.

Sixteen-year-old Juliet Moreau has built a life for herself in London—working as a maid, attending church on Sundays, and trying not to think about the scandal that ruined her life. After all, no one ever proved the rumors about her father's gruesome experiments. But when she learns he is alive and continuing his work on a remote tropical island, she is determined to find out if the accusations are true.

Accompanied by her father's handsome young assistant, Montgomery, and an enigmatic castaway, Edward—both of whom she is deeply drawn to—Juliet travels to the island, only to discover the depths of her father's madness: He has experimented on animals so that they resemble, speak, and behave as humans. And worse, one of the creatures has turned violent and is killing the island's inhabitants. Torn between horror and scientific curiosity, Juliet knows she must end her father's dangerous experiments and escape her jungle prison before it's too late. Yet as the island falls into chaos, she discovers the extent of her father's genius—and madness—in her own blood.

Inspired by H. G. Wells's classic The Island of Dr. Moreau, The Madman's Daughter is a dark and breathless Gothic thriller about the secrets we'll do anything to know and the truths we'll go to any lengths to protect.

My Teaser

"The basement hallways in King's College of Medical Research were dark, even in the daytime.
At night they were like a grave." - Page 1

This is the first book we're reading for my new young adult book club at work and I'm so excited!! I've heard amazing things and I'm so intrigued!!!

Stacking the Shelves - The one with A DARKNESS STRANGE AND DEADLY!!

2013-02-16T08:14:00.000-08:00

Stacking the Shelves is hosted by Tynga's Reviews as a way to share all the books we've received this week!

Hey guyyyyz!! It's been awhile since I've done a STS post so I'm going to share LOTS of great things with you today :D

Also, sorry for the kind of blurry pictures >_< I was in a hurry hahaha

Thanks from HarperChildrens!

Nancy Clancy: Secret Admirer (Nancy Clancy #2) by Jane O'Connor

Fancy Nancy Storybook Treasury by Jane O'Connor

Big thanks from HarperTeen!!!!

The Ward by Jordana Frankel

Mind Games by Kiersten White

The Elite by Kiera Cass

Life After Theft by Aprilynne Pike

Flowers in the Sky by Lynn Joseph

What the Spell by Brittany Geragotelis (Thanks from SimonTeen!!)

Natural Born Angel by Scott Speer (Thanks from PenguinTeen!!)

Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles (Thanks Bloomsbury!)

Parallell by Lauren Miller (From work)

A Darkness Strange and Deadly by Susan Dennard (From work)

Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea by April Genevieve Tucholke (From work)

Unravel Me by Tahereh Mafi (Borrowed from work)

Reaper's Legacy by Tim Lebbon (Thanks PYR!!)

The Colossus Rises by Peter Lerangis (Thanks HarperChildrens!)

Firebrand by Gillian Philip (Thanks Tor!!)

Waiting on Wednesday - Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea by April Genevieve Tucholke

2013-02-06T00:00:00.000-08:00

****"Waiting on Wednesday" is a weekly event hosted by Jill at the Breaking The Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.****

Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea by April Genevieve Tucholke
Expected Publication Date: August 30th, 2013
Publisher: Dial
Page Count: 368 pages
Goodreads | Books Inc.

You stop fearing the devil when you’re holding his hand…

Nothing much exciting rolls through Violet White’s sleepy, seaside town…until River West comes along. River rents the guesthouse behind Violet’s crumbling estate, and as eerie, grim things start to happen, Violet begins to wonder about the boy living in her backyard. Is River just a crooked-smiling liar with pretty eyes and a mysterious past? Or could he be something more? Violet’s grandmother always warned her about the Devil, but she never said he could be a dark-haired boy who takes naps in the sun, who likes coffee, who kisses you in a cemetery...who makes you want to kiss back. Violet’s already so knee-deep in love, she can’t see straight. And that’s just how River likes it.

Blending faded decadence and the thrilling dread of gothic horror, April Genevieve Tucholke weaves a dreamy, twisting contemporary romance, as gorgeously told as it is terrifying—a debut to watch.

Why I Can't Wait: This sounds so effing scary, doesn't it?! Like omfg hello Edgar Allen Poe! I definitely need to read this one RIGHT NOW. It just LOOKS spooky and has that gothic horror feel.

Teaser Tuesday - Let the Sky Fall by Shannon Messenger

2013-02-05T00:00:00.000-08:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.

Let the Sky Fall by Shannon Messenger
Expected Publication Date: March 5th, 2013
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Page count: 416 pages
Goodreads | Books Inc.

A broken past and a divided future can’t stop the electric connection of two teens in this “charged and romantic” (Becca Fitzpatrick), lush novel.

Seventeen-year-old Vane Weston has no idea how he survived the category five tornado that killed his parents. And he has no idea if the beautiful, dark-haired girl who’s swept through his dreams every night since the storm is real. But he hopes she is.

Seventeen-year-old Audra is a sylph, an air elemental. She walks on the wind, can translate its alluring songs, and can even coax it into a weapon with a simple string of commands. She’s also a guardian—Vane’s guardian—and has sworn an oath to protect Vane at all costs. Even if it means sacrificing her own life.

When a hasty mistake reveals their location to the enemy who murdered both of their families, Audra’s forced to help Vane remember who he is. He has a power to claim—the secret language of the West Wind, which only he can understand. But unlocking his heritage will also unlock the memory Audra needs him to forget. And their greatest danger is not the warriors coming to destroy them—but the forbidden romance that’s grown between them.

My Teaser

"I'm lucky to be alive.
At least that's what everybody keeps telling me. The reporter from the local newspaper even had the nerve to call it a miracle. I was 'Vane Weston: The Miracle Child.' Like the police finding me unconscious in a pile of rubble was part of some grand universal plan." - ARC page 1

You guys, I'm already hooked :)

Review: Mind Games by Kiersten White

2013-02-04T08:31:00.000-08:00

Mind Games (Mind Games #1) by Kiersten White
Expected Publication Date: February 19th, 2013
Publisher: HarperTeen
Page Count: 256 pages
Format: ARC
Source: Not Your Mother's Book Club
Goodreads | Books Inc.

Fia was born with flawless instincts. Her first impulse, her gut feeling, is always exactly right. Her sister, Annie, is blind to the world around her—except when her mind is gripped by strange visions of the future.

Trapped in a school that uses girls with extraordinary powers as tools for corporate espionage, Annie and Fia are forced to choose over and over between using their abilities in twisted, unthinkable ways… or risking each other’s lives by refusing to obey.

In a stunning departure from her New York Times bestselling Paranormalcy trilogy, Kiersten White delivers a slick, edgy, heartstoppingly intense psychological thriller about two sisters determined to protect each other—no matter the cost.

I'll admit that I haven't read any of Kirsten White's other books, but if they're anything like Mind Games I know I'll love them! Mind Games is a total roller coaster ride, switching between the POVs of the twins, Annie and Fia. While Annie's blind, she has the ability to see the future and Fia's abilities are unknown, but she's definitely special. Mind Games is just a taste of what's coming, but I'm really looking forward to whatever White has in store next!

The story alternates between Annie and Fia's POVs, as well as jumping between past and present. White does an awesome job of creating a clear voice for each girl. When Annie's narrating, the language is more mature and rational, but when it's Fia's turn, the words blend together creating an erratic tone that matches well with her thought process. I loved both sisters, but Fia's kick ass attitude and irrational behavior made her a little more interesting to read. Annie is pleasant enough, and I liked that she didn't let her disability get in the way of what she wanted. There is even a gorgeous, sexy love interest who is kid of a jerk, but I totally fell for him! You know how I love bad boys :)

The actual plot is mostly character-driven, involving chase scenes, fights, kissing, and lots of super powers. I loved the sci-fi elements, but the whole "damaged girl who is kick ass awesome and insecure" got old after a while. I also think that the story was too short. I know that there's going to be a second one, but I think it would have paid off more to combine the two books into one to make it longer and help explain some details more. By the time I was finished I was still a bit confused by some things. The best part of the book was definitely White's ability to switch voices so well. I could always tell who was talking without even looking at the chapter title. I did think some parts were a bit rushed and, as I said, some elements weren't explained, but since the story is told from the view point of two girls who are equally as confused, it was an understandable plot point.

Mind Games was a quick, exciting read and I'm looking forward to whatever she's got coming out next. I'm excited to learn more about Fia and Annie and their abilities and I really hope we'll delve deeper into this world of psychics. Hopefully, both sisters will get some therapy and work out their deeper issues so they can fight the bad guys together and stop complaining all the time. If you're a fan of thrillers and mind benders, you'll definitely enjoy this one. Mind Games is a good read for fans of Darkest Minds and Shatter Me.

Teaser Tuesday - Unbreakable by Elizabeth Norris

2013-01-29T07:34:00.000-08:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.

Unbreakable (Unraveling #2) by Elizabeth Norris
Expected Publication Date: April 23rd, 2013
Publisher: Balzer + Bray
Page Count: 496 pages
Goodreads | Books Inc.

Four months after Ben disappeared through the portal to his home universe, Janelle believes she’ll never see him again. Her world is still devastated, but life is finally starting to resume some kind of normalcy. Until Interverse Agent Taylor Barclay shows up. Somebody from an alternate universe is running a human trafficking ring, kidnapping people and selling them on different Earths—and Ben is the prime suspect. Now his family has been imprisoned and will be executed if Ben doesn’t turn himself over within five days.

And when Janelle learns that someone she cares about—someone from her own world—has become one of the missing, she knows that she has to help Barclay, regardless of the danger. Now Janelle has five days to track down the real culprit. Five days to locate the missing people before they’re lost forever. Five days to reunite with the boy who stole her heart. But as the clues begin to add up, Janelle realizes that she’s in way over her head—and that she may not have known Ben as well as she thought. Can she uncover the truth before everyone she cares about is killed?

My Teaser

"Some days are so perfect, they just don't seem real.
They're the days when you wake up and aren't tired, when the sun is shining and the breeze kicks up from the ocean, keeping you from getting too hot or too cold, and everything you do goes right. Like you're inside of a movie with your own soundtrack, where you're so happy that you can't help just spontaneously breaking into smile. Some days are like magic.
But I haven't had one of those days in a long time." - ARC page 1

MEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEP!!!!! That is all.

ALA Midwinter 2013!!!

2013-01-28T08:06:00.000-08:00

I went to ALA Midwinter!!!! It was ridiculously exciting and overwhelming and OMIGOSH! I spent 3 days running around the exhibit hall and hanging out with awesome authors and fellow bloggers and now I am home, and sore, and dying. And waiting for my boxes to show up!

Some of the highlights of my trip definitely include meeting Lenore Appelhans, Vy from Vys Blog, Jennifer from Novel Thoughts, and Christin from Portrait of a Book!

Me with Mindy from Magical Urban Fantasy Reads!

Me with Vy!

Me and Lenore Appelhans!

The books I'm most excited about getting!!!

I'm going to ALA!!!!!

2013-01-25T00:00:00.000-08:00

The time has arrived!!! I'm finally taking off for Seattle, Washington, where I'll be attending my first ever ALA conference! I am ridiculously excited, as well as nervous, because I'm flying alone for the first time ever! The last time I flew at all was about 10 years ago so I don't even remember how it works. I am definitely pretty freaked out, and super excited all at the same time!!!

So, if you're going to be at ALA, let me know! Maybe we can meet up and have coffee or something :)

Waiting on Wednesday - Unbreakable by Elizabeth Norris

2013-01-23T07:22:00.002-08:00

****"Waiting on Wednesday" is a weekly event hosted by Jill at the Breaking The Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.****

Unbreakable by Elizabeth Norris
Expected Publication Date: April 23rd, 2013
Publisher: Balzer + Bray
Page Count: 496 pages
Goodreads | Books Inc.

Four months after Ben disappeared through the portal to his home universe, Janelle believes she’ll never see him again. Her world is still devastated, but life is finally starting to resume some kind of normalcy. Until Interverse Agent Taylor Barclay shows up. Somebody from an alternate universe is running a human trafficking ring, kidnapping people and selling them on different Earths—and Ben is the prime suspect. Now his family has been imprisoned and will be executed if Ben doesn’t turn himself over within five days.

And when Janelle learns that someone she cares about—someone from her own world—has become one of the missing, she knows that she has to help Barclay, regardless of the danger. Now Janelle has five days to track down the real culprit. Five days to locate the missing people before they’re lost forever. Five days to reunite with the boy who stole her heart. But as the clues begin to add up, Janelle realizes that she’s in way over her head—and that she may not have known Ben as well as she thought. Can she uncover the truth before everyone she cares about is killed?

Why I Can't Wait: I absolutely LOVED Unraveling and I can't WAIT for the sequel!! I seriously need to know what's going to happen next!!! And Ben! I need more Ben!!

What are you waiting on this week?

Welp, I'm going back to school!

2013-01-22T00:00:00.000-08:00

Le sigh. I'm going back to school - AGAIN. My blog is going to suffer - AGAIN. Thankfully, this is it! After this final semester I am DONE! I will be a real, working adult!! But, just bare with me while I get my schooling done and get myself together for the working world.

I'm hoping to keep my blog up, somewhat, regularly, but there will be times where I'm pretty absent for a bit. Since it's my final semester I'm taking ridiculously challenging classes that will force me to spend most of my time reading adult books which are SO BORING, right? :P That leaves less time for me to spend reading the books that I actually want to read, but hopefully I'll be able to sneak in a couple hours every now and then. Because of this, I'm not accepting review requests for books that are being releases between February and Mid May. Hopefully I'll be able to open myself up again once school is over!

I am really looking forward to what's coming after school is over. My job at the bookstore has offered me a full time position as a supervisor and children's specialist so I'll be working full time straight out of college. I'm also starting our young adult book club, Not Your Mother's ACTUAL Book Club which starts in February. So I'll have my hands full!!

I'm definitely excited for some of the books I'll be reading for classes, I have to admit. Pride and Prejudice, In Cold Blood, Atonement, Fun Home, just to name a few. It will definitely be an interesting semester!!

Hope you all stick with me for my last semester of college!!

Stacking the Shelves - The one with lots of randomness!

2013-01-19T00:00:00.000-08:00

Stacking the Shelves is hosted by Tynga's Reviews as a way to share all the books we've received this week!

Under the Never Sky baseball cap from Veronica Rossi!!!

The Cadet of Tildor by Alex Lidell (borrowed from work)

Lies, Knives, and Girls in Red Dresses by Ron Koertge (borrowed from work)

Through the Ever Night by Veronica Rossi (x2! signed!)

Cinders & Sapphires by Leila Rasheed (from work)

Time Between Us by Tamara Ireland Stone (signed!)

The Crossing by Mandy Hager (for review from PYR!)

One Good Earl Deserves a Lover by Sarah MacLean (Thanks HarperCollins!)

The Archived by Victoria (from work)

Obsidian Mirror by Catherine Fisher (Thanks PenguinTeen!)

Here There Be Dragons by James A. Owen (purchased)

The Brides of Rollrock Island by Margo Lanagan (from book swap)

The Replacement by Brenna Yovanoff (from book swap)

The Summer Prince by Alaya Dawn Johnson (from work)

City's Son by Tom Pollock (from work)

Arclight by Josin L. McQuein (from work)

Strands of Bronze and Gold by Jane Nickerson (from work)

The School for Good and Evil by Soman Chainani (from work)

Spirit and Dust by Rosemary Clement-Moore (from work)

Rootless by Chris Howard (signed!)

Review: The Peculiar by Stefan Bachmann

2013-01-17T08:50:00.000-08:00

The Peculiar by Stefan Bachmann
Publication Date: September 18th, 2012
Publisher: Greenwillow Books
Page Count: 384 pages
Format: Finished Copy
Source: Publisher for review
Age: 9-10 and up - Some graphic images at the beginning as well as violence and scary elements throughout the story.
Goodreads | Books Inc.

Don't get yourself noticed and you won't get yourself hanged.

In the faery slums of Bath, Bartholomew Kettle and his sister Hettie live by these words. Bartholomew and Hettie are changelings--Peculiars--and neither faeries nor humans want anything to do with them.

One day a mysterious lady in a plum-colored dress comes gliding down Old Crow Alley. Bartholomew watches her through his window. Who is she? What does she want? And when Bartholomew witnesses the lady whisking away, in a whirling ring of feathers, the boy who lives across the alley--Bartholomew forgets the rules and gets himself noticed.

First he's noticed by the lady in plum herself, then by something darkly magical and mysterious, by Jack Box and the Raggedy Man, by the powerful Mr. Lickerish . . . and by Arthur Jelliby, a young man trying to slip through the world unnoticed, too, and who, against all odds, offers Bartholomew friendship and a way to belong.

Part murder mystery, part gothic fantasy, part steampunk adventure, The Peculiar is Stefan Bachmann's riveting, inventive, and unforgettable debut novel.

Stefan Bachmann's The Peculiar is a gorgeous debut set in a fantastical version of the gritty streets of London. The story follows the trials and tribulations of young Bartholomew, the Changeling. In a world where fairies roam the streets in plain sight, and Changelings are depolored by humans and the fae, Bartholomew must learn to face his fears and defeat his many enemies. The Peculiar boasts a magnificent story line and likable characters that will appeal to children and adults. I loved the terrifying world that Bachmann has created and I immediately fell in love with poor Bartholomew. Fans of fantasy, twisted fairy tales, and the darker side of the fae will enjoy this one!

Bartholomew is just like most young children. He likes to play with his toys, he loves his younger sister, and he wants to see the world. The only problem is that he is allowed to be seen by anyone, ever. But Bartholomew is brave and when he's forced to leave the (somewhat) safety of his home, he does so with courage and intelligence. I thoroughly enjoyed watching Bartholomew overcome the obstacles that are thrown in his path over and over again; he really is a true hero. Even quiet Mr. Jelliby, a bumbling, idiotic adult who stays locked away in his home as much as he can manages to grow into a more appealing and courageous character. Both characters lean more about themselves and the world around them as they work together.

For being sixteen when he started The Peculiar, Bachmann puts the rest of us to shame. His writing abilities are spectacular, painting vivid images of this frightening world and bringing this entire city to life. The ideas are fresh, the world-building is realistic and horrifying, and the ease with which the plot moves along is elegant. There were some moments where things slowed down and may have moved too leisurely, but overall the story moves quickly and efficiently. I admit, I love a good bloody and graphic scene with bodies swinging from trees, and Bachmann leaves none of these scenes to the imagination. His descriptive language made me feel as if I were really there, watching lifeless corpses swinging from dead branches.

Overall, I loved Bachmann's The Peculiar. It's horrifying and fantastical and the juxtaposition between fantasy and reality with steampunk elements thrown in is perfect. I greatly appreciated that Bachmann refused to portray the fae in a positive light, giving us the true eleven creatures of old world mythology. I loved watching the two main characters grow throughout the story and learn to navigate this strange world they live in, and I can't wait to find out what Bachmann has in store for us next. There are some graphic and scary images that may not be suitable for children under nine.

Waiting on Wednesday - Sweet Peril by Wendy Higgins

2013-01-16T00:00:00.000-08:00

****"Waiting on Wednesday" is a weekly event hosted by Jill at the Breaking The Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.****

Sweet Peril (The Sweet Trilogy #2) by Wendy Higgins
Expected Publication Date: April 30th, 2013
Publisher: HarperTeen
Page Count: 464 pages
Goodreads | Books Inc.

Anna Whitt, the daughter of a guardian angel and a demon, promised herself she’d never do the work of her father—polluting souls. She’d been naive to make such a vow. She’d been naive about a lot of things.

Haunted by demon whisperers, Anna does whatever she can to survive, even if it means embracing her dark side and earning an unwanted reputation as her school’s party girl. Her life has never looked more bleak. And all the while there’s Kaidan Rowe, son of the Duke of Lust, plaguing her heart and mind.

When an unexpected lost message from the angels surfaces, Anna finds herself traveling the globe with Kopano, son of Wrath, in an attempt to gain support of fellow Nephilim and give them hope for the first time. It soon becomes clear that whatever freedoms Anna and the rest of the Neph are hoping to win will not be gained without a fight. Until then, Anna and Kaidan must put aside the issues between them, overcome the steamiest of temptations yet, and face the ultimate question: is loving someone worth risking their life?

Why I Can't Wait: I absolutely adored Sweet Evil and I'm just SO EXCITED that there's going to be a sequel, FINALLY! I just have to know what's going to happen with Anna and Kai!!!!! The sexy wait is KILLING ME!

What are you waiting on this week??!

Teaser Tuesday - Jinx by Sage Blackwood

2013-01-15T10:40:00.000-08:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.

Jinx by Sage Blackwood
Publication Date: January 8th, 2013
Publisher: HarperCollins
Page Count: 368 pages
Goodreads | Books Inc.

In the Urwald, you don’t step off the path. Trolls, werewolves, and butter-churn riding witches lurk amid the clawing branches, eager to swoop up the unwary. Jinx has always feared leaving the path—then he meets the wizard Simon Magnus.

Jinx knows that wizards are evil. But Simon’s kitchen is cozy, and he seems cranky rather than wicked. Staying with him appears to be Jinx’s safest, and perhaps only, option. As Jinx’s curiosity about magic grows, he learns to listen to the trees as closely as he does to Simon’s unusual visitors. The more Jinx discovers, the more determined he becomes to explore beyond the security of well-trod paths. But in the Urwald, a little healthy fear is never out of place, for magic—and magicians—can be as dangerous as the forest, and soon Jinx must decide which is the greater threat.

Sage Blackwood introduces a daring new hero for an innovative new world as Jinx is joined by friends, battles enemies, and discovers life beyond—and even within—the forest is more complex than he can imagine, and that the Urwald itself needs him more than he could ever guess.

My Teaser

"In the Urwald you grow up fast or not at all. By the time Jinx was six he had learned to live quietly and carefully, squeezed into the spaces left by ther people even though the hut he lived in with his stepparents actually belonged to him. He had inherited it after his father died of werewolves and his mother was carried off by elves" - ARC page 1

Review: Asunder by Jodi Meadows

2013-01-14T10:07:00.000-08:00

Asunder (Newsoul #2) by Jodi Meadows
Expected Publication Date: January 29th, 2013
Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books
Page Count: 416 pages
Format: ARC
Source: Work; Not Your Mother's Book Club
Goodreads | Books Inc.

DARKSOULS Ana has always been the only one. Asunder. Apart. But after Templedark, when many residents of Heart were lost forever, some hold Ana responsible for the darksouls–and the newsouls who may be born in their place.

SHADOWS Many are afraid of Ana’s presence, a constant reminder of unstoppable changes and the unknown. When sylph begin behaving differently toward her and people turn violent, Ana must learn to stand up not only for herself but for those who cannot stand up for themselves.

LOVE Ana was told that nosouls can’t love. But newsouls? More than anything, she wants to live and love as an equal among the citizens of Heart, but even when Sam professes his deepest feelings, it seems impossible to overcome a lifetime of rejection.

In this second book in the Incarnate trilogy, Ana discovers the truth about reincarnation and will have to find a way to embrace love and make her young life meaningful. Once again, Jodi Meadows explores the extraordinary beauty and shadowed depths of the soul in a story equal parts epic romance and captivating fantasy.

I was lucky enough to get Incarnate as an ARC last year, and once I finished I knew waiting for the sequel would be torture. Unfortunately, Asunder came right in the middle of a busy school year, so when I finally had the time to pick it up, I devoured it. Asunder is probably ten times better than Incarnate and I am pretty positive that the next installment will be ten times better than Asunder. Not only are there fantastic new characters, but our old favorites are changing in the best of ways. Even the writing style has become more poetic and graceful, flowing together without leaving plot holes and questions unanswered. I absolutely adored Asunder and I can't believe I have to wait another year for the final book!

I really loved Ana's character development in Asunder, she seems like she's got a lot more confidence and a new backbone which I so loved and she so needed. She actually stands up to Sam and Stef and the council members on more than one occasion, and I just wanted to cheer for her the whole time. Even Sam shows his less confident side, breaking down and proving he doesn't know everything. We're introduced to some new characters who really added a new depth to Heart and Ana's world and I'm looking forward to learning more about them and how they have contributed to Heart and Range in their past lives.

The story lines from Incarnate are continued and there are plenty of new and crazy revelations that totally blew me away. We learn more about all the creatures living in Range, as well as where Ana came from and what will happen to her. Jodi's writing style is still beautiful and elegant, if not more so than before. The different plot points also connected together better in Asunder which helped the story flow more smoothly. The descriptive way that Jodi created this world is fantastic, I felt like I was truly there, standing in the town center, or with Ana in the tower. I could always vividly picture whatever scene was being painted in my head and that really hooked me into the story.

Just like last time, I completely fell in love with Jodi's story. I'm falling more in love with Ana and Sam and I love that questions are getting answered while others are arising. The world-building is going a little deeper and I'm really looking forward to the way everything will be wrapped up. Plus, there is tons of kissing!! If you loved Incarnate, you'll love Asunder even more and if you haven't started this fantastical series yet, you really need to. There are dragons! Fans of fantasy, soft sci fi, and romance will love this one!

Through the Ever Night Launch Party Recap!!!!

2013-01-12T00:00:00.000-08:00

Through the Ever Night by Veronica Rossi
Publication Date: January 8th, 2013
Publisher: HarperCollins
Page Count: 352 pages
Goodreads | Books Inc.

t's been months since Aria last saw Perry. Months since Perry was named Blood Lord of the Tides, and Aria was charged with an impossible mission. Now, finally, they are about to be reunited. But their reunion is far from perfect. The Tides don't take kindly to Aria, a former Dweller. And with the worsening Aether storms threatening the tribe's precarious existence, Aria begins to fear that leaving Perry behind might be the only way to save them both.

Threatened by false friends, hidden enemies, and powerful temptations, Aria and Perry wonder, Can their love survive through the ever night?

In this second book in her spellbinding Under the Never Sky trilogy, Veronica Rossi combines fantasy and dystopian elements to create a captivating love story as perilous as it is unforgettable.

The gorgeous display of THROUGH THE EVER NIGHT at the front of the store!

Veronica Rossi's sequel to her amazing debut, Under the Never Sky, came out this past week on the 8th and she held an amazing launch party at Rakestraw Books in Danville, CA! I was lucky enough to be able to attend and it was such a good time!!

Veronica, signing my book with lots of hearts :D

Me with Veronica Rossi!!

I'm wearing the same leather jacket in my first picture with Veronica, when she came to San Francisco for the Dark Days!

Veronica tearing up and thanking everyone for coming out to support her <3

My gorgeous signed copy of THROUGH THE EVER NIGHT with a pretty bookmark and tattoo!!

Blog Tour & Giveaway: Through the Ever Night by Veronica Rossi

2013-01-07T00:37:00.000-08:00

Through the Ever Night (Under the Never Sky #2) by Veronica Rossi

Expected Publication Date: January 8th, 2013
Publisher: HarperCollins
Page Count:
Add to Goodreads | Buy at Books Inc.

It's been months since Aria last saw Perry. Months since Perry was named Blood Lord of the Tides, and Aria was charged with an impossible mission. Now, finally, they are about to be reunited. But their reunion is far from perfect. The Tides don't take kindly to Aria, a former Dweller. And with the worsening Aether storms threatening the tribe's precarious existence, Aria begins to fear that leaving Perry behind might be the only way to save them both.

Threatened by false friends, hidden enemies, and powerful temptations, Aria and Perry wonder, Can their love survive through the ever night?

In this second book in her spellbinding Under the Never Sky trilogy, Veronica Rossi combines fantasy and dystopian elements to create a captivating love story as perilous as it is unforgettable.

Interview with Veronica Rossi

1. Tell us how Through the Ever Night differs from Under the Never Sky Twitter style, in 140 characters or less!

The world is unraveling so the situations are more intense. Aria and Perry are both tried to their limits. It's epic!

2. How was the writing process different the second time around?

It was different because I was writing on deadlines, and also writing with fans in mind. I love my fans, but I had to mentally put up a wall to make sure I wasn't writing what I thought they wanted. I know that sounds strange, because I actually do want my fans to love the story, but my priority is always to stay true to the world and the characters that I created in the first book. Everything that happens needs to feel organic, and not like I'm writing to please.

3. Did you have a hard time keeping certain plot points or character traits consistent though the sequel?

No, not really! What I loved about writing the sequel was that I could just hit the ground running. I can write these characters on autopilot now; I know their fears and desires so well. Recently I started a totally new manuscript. I'd forgotten what it felt like to have to write unfamiliar characters!

4. What are your go to writing snacks and drinks?

I love tea and coffee, and I drink both while I write, but I'm not much of a snacker.

5. Did you have any really terrible writer's block? When you do get a bad case of writer's block, what's your method for getting through it?

I have definitely had moments when the writing isn't easy. When that happens, sometimes I'll take walks or work on something else to clear my head, but usually I just try to write through it!

6. Out of all your characters, old and new, who is your favorite? Least favorite?

I actually enjoy writing all of them. Especially now that I feel so comfortable in this world and in this series. I even loved writing Flea, the dog that's introduced in THROUGH THE EVER NIGHT!

7. If Perry and Roar were both vying for your affections, who would you choose?

Oh, boy. I really can't answer this. It feels very traitorous to even consider!

8. Are you working on any new projects at the moment?

I am! I just began a new project that I'm very excited about. I can't wait to be able to share more about it. Hopefully very soon!

9. For those who have yet to pick up Under the Never Sky, why should they add it to their ever-growing TBR?

I'm very biased, obviously, but they should add it if they are looking for an exciting adventure with a romance, and great supporting characters.

About the Author
VERONICA ROSSI was born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Growing up, she lived in several countries and cities around the world, finally settling in Northern California with her husband and two sons. She completed undergraduate studies at UCLA and then went on to study fine art at the California College of the Arts in San Francisco. UNDER THE NEVER SKY is her first novel.
Twitter | Facebook | Goodreads | Website

Through the Ever Night Prize Pack!

Includes:

Signed copies of Under the Never Sky and Through the Ever Night

Nail polish

Swag

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Giveaway: ARC of Level 2 by Lenore Appelhans

2013-01-04T00:00:00.000-08:00

I was lucky enough to get my hands on an ARC of Level 2 by Lenore Appelhans, and this last week Simon and Schuster generously sent me a finished copy! Since Level 2 isn't out for another week or so, I thought I'd throw a quick giveaway where one lucky winner will receive my extra ARC of Level 2!

Level 2 by Lenore Appelhans
Expected Publication Date: January 15th, 2013
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Page Count: 288 pages

Three levels. Two loves. One choice. Debut novelist, Lenore Appelhans has written a thrilling otherworldly young adult novel about a place that exists between our world (Level 1) and what comes after life (Level 2).

'I pause to look around the hive - all the podlike chambers are lit up as the drones shoot up on memories ... I've wanted to get out of here before, but now the tight quarters start to choke me. There has to be more to death than this.'

Felicia Ward is dead. Trapped in a stark white afterlife limbo, she spends endless days replaying memories, of her family, friends, boyfriend ... and of the guy who broke her heart. The guy who has just broken into Level 2 to find her.

Felicia learns that a rebellion is brewing, and it seems she is the key. Suspended between heaven and earth, she must make a choice. Between two worlds, two lives and two loves.

The Deets

- US ONLY

- Must be 13 or older to enter

- Giveaway will last 1/4-1/7

- I am not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items

- Fill out the Rafflecopter form to enter

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Review: Wildwood by Colin Meloy

2013-01-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

Wildwood by Colin Meloy | Illustrated by Carson Ellis
Publication Date: August 30th, 2011
Publisher: Balzer & Bray
Page Count: 541 pages
Format: Paperback
Source: Publisher for Review
Age: 10 and up - Some frightening elements and advanced vocabulary may be too much for younger children
Goodreads | Books Inc.

The first book in the epic middle-grade fantasy series full of magic, wonder, and danger—nothing less than an American Narnia—from Colin Meloy, lead singer of the highly celebrated band the Decemberists, and Carson Ellis, the acclaimed illustrator of the New York Times bestselling The Mysterious Benedict Society.

When Prue's baby brother is kidnapped by a murder of crows, she wastes no time setting off into the impassable wilderness to save him. Along the way, Prue discovers that her missing brother is part of something much bigger and more sinister than she could ever imagine. Wildwood by Colin Meloy has to be, by far, the best book I've read all year. I am absolutely in love and obsessed with it and I have been recommending it to anyone and every one I know. The characters are fantastic and strong, and the world building is magnificently constructed. While written for a younger audience, the adventurous plot and lyrical writing style will have adults and children hooked from the very beginning.

Prue wastes no time in deciding that she will do everything in her power to save her brother, risking her life on more than one occasion. Prue's classmate, Curtis, takes it upon himself to accompany her in hopes that he'll find friendship and an adventure. I loved Prue from the very beginning; her heart is huge and she is an incredibly courageous young girl. Curtis' need to help Prue was admirable and selfless and I loved how much he grew into himself throughout the story. Their journey through Wildwood helps both Prue and Curtis come into themselves, realizing their true potential and developing into warriors while growing out of their childhood selves. The rest of the characters are fantastic - an army of coyotes, an evil witch, an owl king, and a helpful mailman all play important roles in Prue's journey.

Meloy's writing style has to be one of the best I've encountered in a while. His poetic form captured my interest immediately and his ability to weave such metaphorical language with beautiful imagery created a harmonious reading experience. As the lead singer of The Decemberists, his writing style becomes very lyrical and emotional which adds a great depth to the plot and advances the world-building to another level. The Narnia-esque world that Meloy creates is both fascinating and frightening, but I was unable to pull myself away. I became completely immersed in the wilderness and magic of Wildwood. The juxtaposition of reality and fantasy is fantastic and the strength of children compared to the weakness of adults is a wonderful concept. The size may be daunting, but I know that once readers meet Prue and Curtis they will be hooked.

It didn't take long for Wildwood to grab me and once I was hooked I wasn't letting go. The world of this "impassable wilderness" is frightening and exhilarating and I can't wait to return. The story may be too scary for younger children, but fans of Narnia and Harry Potter will devour it. The gorgeous writing style and daring plot will seize children (and adults) of all ages. I am so ready to pick up all of Meloy's books, even the ones he hasn't written yet!

Waiting on Wednesday - Hysteria by Megan Miranda

2013-01-02T00:00:00.000-08:00

****"Waiting on Wednesday" is a weekly event hosted by Jill at the Breaking The Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.****

Hysteria by Megan Miranda
Expected Publication Date: February 5th, 2013
Publisher: Walker Childrens
Page Count: 336 pages
Add to Goodreads

Mallory killed her boyfriend, Brian. She can't remember the details of that night but everyone knows it was self-defense, so she isn't charged. But Mallory still feels Brian's presence in her life. Is it all in her head? Or is it something more? In desperate need of a fresh start, Mallory is sent to Monroe, a fancy prep school where no one knows her . . . or anything about her past.But the feeling follows her, as do her secrets. Then, one of her new classmates turns up dead. As suspicion falls on Mallory, she must find a way to remember the details of both deadly nights so she can prove her innocence-to herself and others. In another riveting tale of life and death, Megan Miranda's masterful storytelling brings readers along for a ride to the edge of sanity and back again.

Why I Can't Wait: I absolutely LOVED Miranda's Fracture and I am so excited to read yet another awesome title from her!!! I'm sure this one will be just as crazy and mind-bending as the last!!