Clean Teen Fiction

Growing a Baby! and lots of other reasons why I've been busy

2013-05-24T07:03:00.001-05:00

Hi everyone!!! I have really missed blogging recently. At first I was too busy to think about it, but recently I just can't stay away any longer even though things are still a little crazy. As you can see above I've been growing a baby which has taken a lot of energy. ;) Plus my husband started a new job over an hour drive from where we live so we put our house up for sale, sold it in a day!!!, and are looking for a place to live. Decluttering a house takes a lot of work! We are so grateful it sold so quickly. Now in between packing boxes I'm waiting for baby boy #4 to come. I'm scheduled to be induced in a week and a half, but I'm hoping he'll come sooner on his own. We'll see!!!

I've missed all my wonderful book reading friends! I haven't even been reading any blogs so expect comments on your blogs soon. I have been reading a lot of books so there will be reviews coming soon too. Unless baby comes today... you never know.

Have a wonderful Memorial Day Weekend!

Waiting On Wednesday: Wild Born by Brandon Mull

2013-04-17T08:53:00.001-05:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly post, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine , where we spotlight a book we are anxiously waiting to be published.

Wild Born (Spirit Animals #1)
By Brandon Mull
Publisher: Scholastic
Release Date: September 10, 2013

Interactive multi-author seven-book series launches globally September 2013 with first book and storyline by #1 New York Times bestselling author Brandon Mull and second book by #1 New York Times bestselling author Maggie Stiefvater.

Spirit Animals centers around the fantasy world of Erdas where children who come of age go through a ritual to determine if they have a “spirit animal,” a rare bond between human and beast that bestows great powers to both. In this breakthrough series, four children from different cultures undergo an annual ritual and discover that they have been chosen for a greater destiny. Each book in the series will unlock expanded gameplay on the immersive Spirit Animals online game site. The role-playing online game—available through any web browser—will allow kids to customize their own unique heroes, choose their spirit animals, and go on quests to help save the world of Erdas.

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This just sounds really fun. I love a good MG (middle grade) every once in awhile. I loved Brandon Mull's Fablehaven series so I'm sure this one will be amazing too.

What books are you “Waiting On” today?

More Books By Brandon Mull (click cover to view on Amazon)

New Adult Review: Edenbrooke by Julianne Donaldson

2013-04-16T06:28:00.001-05:00

I consider this AMAZING book New Adult Fiction since the main character was 17 years old, but the love interest was in his 20s. I cannot say enough good things about Edenbrooke. Read it!! I reviewed this book first on my other blog, Clean Adult Fiction.

Title: Edenbrooke
Author: Julianne Donaldson
Publisher: Shadow Mountain
Release Date: March 2012
Pages: 264
Series: none
5 STARS: I LOVED IT!!!

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

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

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My Thoughts:
Oh my this book was AMAZING!!! I loved it!! This is a book I would recommend to everyone who loves a good romance, a little excitement, mystery, and a lot of laughs.

From the beginning I was attached to Marianne. The poor girl had been shipped off to the city after the death of her mother. Her father had sent her to family in one place and sent her twin sister to another. Separated from her family and the beautiful countryside she felt lost. She left to meet up with her sister at Edenbrooke as soon as the invitation came.

The scenery was breathtaking and made me want to visit the English countryside. Sigh. Maybe one day. I loved the humor that came with some embarrassing moments for Marianne especially in front of handsome men. Just thinking about it makes me want to go re-read this book today.

I'd heard so many good things about Edenbrooke. I don't know why it took me so long to finally read it! If you want a beautiful, relaxing, romantic read go get this book now! You'll enjoy it.

Content Ratings: highlight between ( ) to view details
Sexual Content: very mild ( kissing )
Language: none
Violence: mild ( gun injuries, kidnapping )

Reviewed by Kathryn Cooper
Creator of Clean Adult Fiction
and Clean Teen Fiction

Buy it!

[ Amazon / The Book Depository ]

GIVEAWAY!!! Pwned by Shannen Crane Camp

2013-04-15T11:13:00.002-05:00

Shannen Crane Camp has some wonderful books out! I loved both The Breakup Artist and Finding June and can't wait to read this one!! Enter the giveaway below.

Reagan West has a perfect life. She’s at the top of the high school food chain as co-captain of the cheerleading squad and she’s best friends with the most evil girl in Albany, Tawny Perez, which means she’s never on the receiving end of her wrath. The only trouble in Reagan’s perfect life comes from the constant threat of her dirty little secret leaking to her fellow classmates and casting her into a lifetime of ridicule.

Reagan West is a closet gamer and hates her role as the evil cheerleader.

But, as any well versed teenager knows, it’s better to suppress your own nerdy tendencies than to submit to a lifetime of being shoved into lockers and so, Reagan bravely soldiers through life as a reluctant bully… until a boy from her guild moves to her school and becomes Tawny’s next target. The newcomer threatens to reveal Reagan’s nerdy little secret and force her to come to terms with who she truly is. Now Reagan has to decide if she’s going to defend her fellow geeks, or if she’ll continue to be a total troll.

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a Rafflecopter giveaway

BOOKS BY SHANNEN CRANE CAMP: (click cover to view on Amazon)

Stacking the Shelves (12)

2013-04-06T06:00:00.000-05:00

Stacking The Shelves, hosted by Tygna's Reviews, is where bloggers list the books they recently acquired. The books can come from anywhere: publisher, author, giveaway, library, bought.

Click the book’s cover to view on Amazon and the title to add to your GoodReads.

For Review:
eARC of Poison by Bridget Zinn
Persuaded by Jenni James (MY REVIEW)
Emmalee by Jenni James (MY REVIEW)
The Keeper's Calling by Kelly Nelson
The Keeper's Quest by Kelly Nelson

Thank You to Disney Book Group via NetGalley and Inkberry Press for my review copies!

Waiting On Wednesday: The Elite by Kiera Cass

2013-04-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly post, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine , where we spotlight a book we are anxiously waiting to be published.

The Elite (The Selection #2)
By Kiera Cass
Publisher: HarperTeen
Release Date: April 23, 2013

Thirty-five girls came to the palace to compete in the Selection. All but six have been sent home. And only one will get to marry Prince Maxon and be crowned princess of Illea.

America still isn’t sure where her heart lies. When she’s with Maxon, she’s swept up in their new and breathless romance, and can’t dream of being with anyone else. But whenever she sees Aspen standing guard around the palace, and is overcome with memories of the life they planned to share. With the group narrowed down to the Elite, the other girls are even more determined to win Maxon over—and time is running out for America to decide.

Just when America is sure she’s made her choice, a devastating loss makes her question everything again. And while she’s struggling to imagine her future, the violent rebels that are determined to overthrow the monarchy are growing stronger and their plans could destroy her chance at any kind of happy ending.

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I love the covers with the gorgeous dresses. I really enjoyed book 1, The Selection (MY REVIEW). It really left me hanging there at the end so I can't wait to hear more about Maxon and all the girls vying for his heart.

What books are you “Waiting On” today?

More Books By Kiera Cass (click cover to view on Amazon)

Covers Revealed: The Siren's Secret and Pwned

2013-04-02T10:47:00.001-05:00

I follow these authors' blogs and just love them. I've read and loved all of Shannen's books, but I haven't had a chance to read Heather's yet!

Take a look at the covers for their upcoming books!

The Siren's Secret (The Shapeshifter's Secret #2) by Heather Ostler
release date: June 11, 2013

Julia’s life has gone from complicated to nearly impossible! When Julia loses her shapeshifting powers and her appearance changes in alarming ways, she flees to Sirenity, where she learns an incredible secret about her mother. In this thrilling sequel, Julia must take greater risks and make bigger sacrifices as she discovers who she really is and what she can really become.

Pwned by Shannen Crane Camp
release date: April 30, 2013

Books by Heather Ostler (click cover to view on Amazon)

Books by Shannen Crane Camp (click cover to view on Amazon)

Book Review: Emmalee by Jenni James

2013-04-01T10:28:00.000-05:00

THIS IS BOOK #4 IN THE SERIES! (#4 to be published but not actually 4th in series)
The author's note found at the beginning of Emmalee explains that the books were published slightly out of order. It's not a huge deal since each book has different main characters. The chronological order is Pride & Popularity, Persuaded, Emmalee, Mansfield Ranch (not yet published), Northanger Alibi, and Sense & Sensational (not yet published).
Published Order:
Book 1- Pride & Popularity- MY REVIEW
Book 2- Northanger Alibi- MY REVIEW
Book 3- Persuaded- MY REVIEW

Title: Emmalee
Author: Jenni James
Publisher: Inkberry Press
Release Date: December 2012
Pages: 230
Series: The Jane Austen Diaries #4
5 STARS: I LOVED IT!!!

Sometimes love is blind.

Emmalee Bradford thinks she’s an expert at matchmaking, and she won’t rest until all her friends are as happy as she is. Especially Hannah, the girl she’s decided to make popular. Everyone loves Emmalee's advice--everyone, that is, except her annoying neighbor Chase Anderson, who has taken it upon himself to "fix" her.

This modern version of Jane Austen’s Emma is the hilarious journey of a girl who believes she knows all about love. But when it comes to recognizing the perfect guy for her, Emmalee is absolutely clueless.

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My Thoughts:
I have to admit that Emma is not one of my favorite characters in the Jane Austen version, but I loved Emmalee in this book! She was so great. Funny when she didn't even mean to be. Emma had a lot to learn and came across a bit shallow at times, but she really was thoughtful and a loving friend.

And how could you not fall in love with Knightly in the Jane Austen version? Well Chase was just as wonderful in this book, even better. Chase was so charming, cute, thoughtful, and romantic! He was Emma's knight in shining armor . . . literally. ;)

It was so easy to enjoy reading Emmalee with great characters like Emmalee and Chase. Their chemistry was won-der-full! I loved it!

Content Ratings: highlight between ( ) to view details
Sexual Content: very mild ( kissing )
Language: none
Violence: none

I received the book from Inkberry Press. Thank you! I am not paid for my reviews. My reviews are solely my opinion.

Reviewed by Kathryn Cooper
Creator of Clean Teen Fiction

Buy it!
[ Amazon / The Book Depository ]

More Books By Jenni James (Click cover to view on Amazon)

Book Review: Persuaded by Jenni James

2013-04-01T09:46:00.000-05:00

THIS IS BOOK #3 IN THE SERIES! (#3 to be published but not actually 3rd in series)
The author's note found at the beginning of the book Emmalee explains that the books were published slightly out of order. It's not a huge deal since each book has different main characters. The chronological order is Pride & Popularity, Persuaded, Emmalee, Mansfield Ranch (not yet published), Northanger Alibi, and Sense & Sensational (not yet published).
Published Order:
Book 1- Pride & Popularity- MY REVIEW
Book 2- Northanger Alibi- MY REVIEW

Title: Persuaded
Author: Jenni James
Publisher: Inkberry Press
Release Date: July 2012
Pages: 230
Series: The Jane Austen Diaries #3
4 Stars: I Really Liked It

Will he take her back, or fling her aside like she deserves?

Three years ago Amanda made the biggest mistake of her life when she let her friends persuade her to reject the guy she loved. They were convinced he was a loser and wasn't good enough for her.

Now Gregory's back in Farmington . . . taller, stronger, hotter than ever, and worth millions. Those gorgeous girls who snubbed him before are now falling at his feet and he's enjoying every moment of it.

Can he see past the pain Amanda caused him and give her a second chance? Or will she forever regret losing the only guy who truly loved her?

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My Thoughts:
Jane Austen's Persuasion was my favorite of her books so it was really fun to read this modern retelling. Like I always say, I LOVE retellings.

Amanda, the main character, was very true to the personality of Jane Austen's character. She was belittled and unappreciated by her family and friends which made her reserved and unsure of herself. It seemed more sad in a modern setting for some reason. I really felt for Amanda, but sometimes I just wanted to yell, "stand up for yourself girl!"

The romantic story line was so intriguing and frustrating. Gregory moved back 3 years after Amanda turned him down because her friends thought he was a 'nerd' or something. Now he was a hottie and her friends didn't even recognize him as the same guy. There was lots of denial and hidden feelings happening throughout the story, but it was all so entertaining. I really enjoyed it!

The Jane Austen Diaries are fun and romantic reads! I can't wait for them all to come out, and then I'll read them all over again.

Content Ratings: highlight between ( ) to view details
Sexual Content: very mild ( kissing )
Language: none
Violence: none

I received the book from Inkberry Press. Thank you! I am not paid for my reviews. My reviews are solely my opinion.

Reviewed by Kathryn Cooper
Creator of Clean Teen Fiction

Buy it!
[ Amazon ]

More Books By Jenni James (Click cover to view on Amazon)

Book Review: Princess of the Silver Woods by Jessica Day George

2013-04-01T09:00:00.000-05:00

THIS IS BOOK 3 IN THE SERIES!
Book 1- Princess of the Midnight Ball- MY REVIEW
Book 2- Princess of Glass- MY REVIEW

Title: Princess of the Silver Woods
Author: Jessica Day George
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Children's Books
Release Date: December 2012
Pages: 336
Series: Princess #3
5 Stars: I LOVED IT!!!

When Petunia, the youngest of King Gregor's twelve dancing daughters, is invited to visit an elderly friend in the neighboring country of Westfalin, she welcomes the change of scenery. But in order to reach Westfalin, Petunia must pass through a forest where strange two-legged wolves are rumored to exist. Wolves intent on redistributing the wealth of the noble citizens who have entered their territory. But the bandit-wolves prove more rakishly handsome than truly dangerous, and it's not until Petunia reaches her destination that she realizes the kindly grandmother she has been summoned to visit is really an enemy bent on restoring an age-old curse. The stories of Red Riding Hood and Robin Hood get a twist as Petunia and her many sisters take on bandits, grannies, and the new King Under Stone to end their family curse once and for all.

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My Thoughts:
This story took place 9 years after the end of book 1, Princess of the Midnight Ball. The youngest of the 12 sisters, Petunia, had been 7 years old. Now she's 16 and venturing out in the world. Petunia was fun to get to know. She wasn't always the loudest in a group like Poppy (love her), but she definitely had spunk. The best part of the book was when Petunia met Oliver a "wolf," so funny.

I loved hearing Oliver's POV. He was sweet, caring, a good leader, and loyal. He really was a favorite of mine. The bad guys are back with a vengeance, but the girls are not going to be taken back to the King Under Stone world without a fight.

Exciting, funny, and romantic! Princess of the Silver Woods was the perfect end to a great series.

Content Ratings: highlight between ( ) to view details
Sexual Content: very mild ( kissing )
Language: mild ( d***-2, h***-2, God-2, bast***-3 )
Violence: mild ( shooting, death )

Reviewed by Kathryn Cooper
Creator of Clean Teen Fiction

Buy it!
[ Amazon / The Book Depository ]

More Books By Jessica Day George (Click cover to view on Amazon)

Book Review: Perfect Scoundrels by Ally Carter

2013-04-01T06:59:00.003-05:00

THIS IS BOOK 3 OF THE SERIES!

Book 1- Heist Society- MY REVIEW

Book 2- Uncommon Criminals- MY REVIEW

Title: Perfect Scoundrels
Author: Ally Carter
Publisher: Disney Hyperion
Release Date: February 2013
Pages: 328
Series: Heist Society #3
4 Stars: I Really Liked It

Katarina Bishop and W.W. Hale the fifth were born to lead completely different lives: Kat comes from a long, proud line of loveable criminal masterminds, while Hale is the scion of one of the most seemingly perfect dynasties in the world. If their families have one thing in common, it's that they both know how to stay under the radar while getting-or stealing-whatever they want. No matter the risk, the Bishops can always be counted on, but in Hale's family, all bets are off when money is on the line. When Hale unexpectedly inherits his grandmother's billion dollar corporation, he quickly learns that there's no place for Kat and their old heists in his new role. But Kat won't let him go that easily, especially after she gets tipped off that his grandmother's will might have been altered in an elaborate con to steal the company's fortune. So instead of being the heir-this time, Hale might be the mark. Forced to keep a level head as she and her crew fight for one of their own, Kat comes up with an ambitious and far-reaching plan that only the Bishop family would dare attempt. To pull it off, Kat is prepared to do the impossible, but first, she has to decide if she's willing to save her boyfriend's company if it means losing the boy.

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My Thoughts:
The best part about this book was all the information we learned about Hale. He had been Kat's mysterious and cute friend in the past books, but this time I got to delve into his family and world. It was great to get to know his crazy family like we've gotten to know Kat's.

I didn't have to read this story every second of the day. I wasn't hooked or attached to Kat or the side characters, except for Hale. At the start of the series Kat changed from being a thief to a Robin Hood, still a thief just for a better reason. Most of the side characters are thieves though, and I just don't relate or feel attached to them. I still gave this book 4 stars because it was well written and an entertaining story.

There was a lot of excitement and a little more romance this time which I loved. If you loved Heist Society and Uncommon Criminals then you'll love this final installment in the series. At least I think it's the final book. It came to a nice and complete ending anyway. Enjoy!

Content Ratings: highlight between ( ) to view details
Sexual Content: very mild ( kissing )
Language: none
Violence: very mild ( threat by holding her throat, possible murder )
Other: mild ( Hale at 16yo and a girl show up drunk to an event )

Reviewed by Kathryn Cooper
Creator of Clean Teen Fiction

Buy it!
[ Amazon / The Book Depository ]

Some Other Books By Ally Carter (Click cover to view on Amazon)

No More Google Reader!

2013-03-29T09:42:00.002-05:00

A note came up when I accessed my Google Reader the other day saying that you will no longer be able to follow blogs through google reader starting sometime in July. So I've been trying to decide how I will follow all my favorite blogs, and saw that my book blogging friend from Book Haven Extraordinaire had joined Bloglovin. So that's where I'll be following. I just wanted to let you know in case you were looking as well. It seems like a good way to follow. :) Happy Friday!

Waiting on Wednesday: Friends and Traitors by CJ Hill

2013-03-27T09:48:00.002-05:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly post, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine , where we spotlight a book we are anxiously waiting to be published.

Friends and Traitors (Slayers #2)
By CJ Hill (aka Janette Rallison)
Publisher: Feiwel and Friends
Release Date: October 15, 2013
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There wasn't a synopsis on GoodReads for this book yet, but when I noticed on the author's website that it would come out in October I got so excited! I LOVED Slayers! See My Review. This is a must read series. I actually love all of Janette Rallison/ CJ Hill's books. Since the synopsis isn't even up yet this might not be the final cover or actual release date.

Here's book 1 info! This is the upcoming paperback cover. Amazing!

Dragons exist. They’re ferocious. And they’re smart: before they were killed off by slayer-knights, they rendered a select group of eggs dormant so their offspring would survive. Only a handful of people know about this, let alone believe it—these “Slayers” are descended from the original knights and are now a diverse group of teens that includes Tori, a smart but spoiled senator’s daughter who didn’t sign up to save the world.

The dragon eggs have fallen into the wrong hands. The Slayers must work together to stop the eggs from hatching. They will fight; they will fall in love. But will they survive?

What book are you “Waiting On” today? Leave me a link!

Books by C.J. Hill (click to view on Amazon)

Waiting On Wednesday: Siege and Storm by Leigh Bardugo

2013-03-13T05:00:00.000-05:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly post, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine , where we spotlight a book we are anxiously waiting to be published.

Siege and Storm (The Grisha #2)
By Leigh Bardugo
Publisher: Henry Holt and Co.
Release Date: June 4, 2013

Darkness never dies.

Hunted across the True Sea, haunted by the lives she took on the Fold, Alina must try to make a life with Mal in an unfamiliar land, all while keeping her identity as the Sun Summoner a secret. But she can't outrun her past or her destiny for long.

The Darkling has emerged from the Shadow Fold with a terrifying new power and a dangerous plan that will test the very boundaries of the natural world. With the help of a notorious privateer, Alina returns to the country she abandoned, determined to fight the forces gathering against Ravka. But as her power grows, Alina slips deeper into the Darkling's game of forbidden magic, and farther away from Mal. Somehow, she will have to choose between her country, her power, and the love she always thought would guide her--or risk losing everything to the oncoming storm.

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I LOVED Shadow and Bone (book 1)! See my review HERE. I can't wait to see what happens next in this dark fantasy world. What's going to happen with Alina and Mal?!!

What books are you “Waiting On” today?

Books by Leigh Bardugo (click cover to view on Amazon)

Transcend Time Blitz Blog Tour!

2013-03-11T14:10:00.000-05:00

Xpresso Book Tours is hosting the Book Blitz for the Transcend Time Saga. I LOVE THIS SERIES!

My Reviews:

Book 1- Remembrance

Book 2 (novella)- Vengeance

Book 3- Timeless

Lizzie Davenport has been reincarnated from Regency Era, England ... but she doesn't know it yet.

Then Drew Carmichael transfers into Lizzie's high school at the beginning of the year, and she feels a connection to him, almost like she knows him. She can't stop thinking about him, but whenever she tries talking with him about the mysteries behind her feelings, he makes it clear that he wants nothing to do with her. Reaching him is even more difficult because she has a boyfriend, Jeremy, who has started to become full of himself after being elected co-captain of the varsity soccer team, and her flirtatious best friend Chelsea starts dating Drew soon after his arrival. So why can't she get him out of her mind?

Even though Lizzie knows she should let go of her fascination with Drew, fighting fate isn't going to be easy.

How far would you go to get revenge?

When Chelsea Givens discovered that her ex-boyfriend Drew dumped her to be with her former
best friend Lizzie, she'd never felt so betrayed in her life. Then her new friend Shannon tells her
she can help set things right. Chelsea's willing to listen, but what Shannon wants her to believe -
- that she shared a past life with Drew -- is impossible. And what she wants her to do to get him
back … well, it's downright crazy.

Could Shannon be telling the truth? And if she is, what lengths will Chelsea go if it means
making Lizzie pay?

Find out in Vengeance, the second part of the Transcend Time Saga.

*Vengeance is the short story that bridges the events in Remembrance and the final novel in the
Saga.

IT'S A RACE AGAINST TIME.

In Remembrance, Lizzie and Drew changed the course of fate so they could be together.

In Vengeance, Chelsea set fate back on its original, deadly path.

Now, strange things keep happening to Lizzie. Things that are omens of darkness to come. A
curse has doomed her to die an early death, just as she did in her past life. To make matters
worse, even if she can figure out who cast the curse, it's irreversible. There's only one option left
for her to save herself. It's crazier than anything she's heard yet, and to do it, she'll need Drew
and Chelsea's help.

Because to make things right, they must go back to when it all began ... and Lizzie discovers that
the final events in her past life were more sinister than she ever imagined.

REMEMBRANCE SNEAK PEAK

Preface:

It was at the Halloween dance that I got the first glimpse of my past life.
The gym was packed, and due to the masks and the dim lights, it was impossible to
tell who anyone was. I looked through the crowd, trying to see who Chelsea was dancing
with, but even her red dress blended into the darkness.
Then I felt a movement from behind.
“Your boyfriend won’t mind if you dance with someone else?” a familiar voice
whispered in my ear, barely audible over the loud, trancelike music. I turned around,
disappointed to find that the black bandanna wrapped around his hair and the matching
cloth mask covering the top half of his face made it impossible to see his features in the
low lighting. But I knew it was Drew.
He pulled me closer before I could respond to the question. His arms wrapped
around my waist, and I rested my head on his shoulder, closing my eyes and inhaling the
sweet scent of pine coming off his skin. Jeremy would mind, but pulling away from Drew
would be like trying to yank two magnets apart. It was dark, and we were in the back of
the room, far enough from the main crowd in the center for anyone to notice. One dance
couldn’t hurt.
He must have figured that I wasn’t going to try pulling away again, because he
raised his hand to my shoulder and trailed his thumb down to my elbow, reaching my
wrist and intertwining his fingers with mine. The palms of our hands connected, and I
decided to enjoy the time we could be together, knowing that everything would return to
the way it had been come Monday morning. The world spun to the beat of the music, and
I let myself sink into it, clearing my mind of everything around me.
That was when the first flash came.

I hope you've enjoyed this great book blitz! Have you read these books? If not add them to your to-read list!

Transcend Saga! (click the cover to view/purchase on Amazon. They're sold on B&N, Kobo, and iBooks too.)
Remembrance is currently $0.99!!!

COMPLETE BOXED SET OF EBOOKS IS $3.99! (click below)

Waiting On Wednesday: Abandon by Elana Johnson

2013-03-06T05:00:00.000-06:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly post, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine , where we spotlight a book we are anxiously waiting to be published.

Abandon (Possession #3)
By Elana Johnson
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Release Date: June 4, 2013

seduced by power,
broken by control,
and consumed by love...

Vi has made her choice between Jag and Zenn, and the Resistance may have suffered for it. But with the Thinkers as strong as ever, the rebels still have a job to do. Vi knows better than anyone that there's more at stake than a few broken hearts.

But there is a traitor among them...and the choices he makes could lead to the total destruction of everything Vi has fought for.

Vi, Jag, and Zenn must set their problems aside for the Resistance to have any hope of ending the Thinkers' reign. Their success means everything...and their failure means death.

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This series is so great! See my review for BOOK 1 and BOOK 2. I can't wait to find out the rest of their story- Vi and Jag, Raine and Gunner! Have you read this series? Do you love it?! You need to read it. It's really exciting.

What books are you “Waiting On” today?

Books by Elana Johnson (click cover to view on Amazon)

Book Review: Scarlet by Marissa Meyer

2013-02-21T13:59:00.000-06:00

THIS IS BOOK 2 IN A SERIES
Book 1- Cinder ( my review )

Title: Scarlet
Author: Marissa Meyer
Publisher: Feiwel and Friends
Release Date: February 2013
Pages: 452
Series: Lunar Chronicles #2
5 STARS: I LOVED IT!!!

Cinder returns in the second thrilling installment of the New York Times-bestselling Lunar Chronicles. She’s trying to break out of prison—even though if she succeeds, she’ll be the Commonwealth’s most wanted fugitive.

Halfway around the world, Scarlet Benoit’s grandmother is missing. It turns out there are many things Scarlet doesn’t know about her grandmother and the grave danger she has lived in her whole life. When Scarlet encounters Wolf, a street fighter who may have information as to her grandmother’s whereabouts, she has no choice but to trust him, though he clearly has a few dark secrets of his own.

As Scarlet and Wolf work to unravel one mystery, they find another when they cross paths with Cinder. Together, they must stay one step ahead of the vicious Lunar Queen who will do anything to make Prince Kai her husband, her king, her prisoner.

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My Thoughts:
I LOVE THIS SERIES!!! If you haven't read Cinder you need to because this is an epic series.

Now that we're in to book 2 there was a lot more action. It was nonstop! Scarlet (red riding hood) was looking for her grandmother who'd gone missing. The authorities had given up the search claiming a suicide/runaway, but Scarlet couldn't believe that. She found a guy named Wolf that could possibly help her. They went on a wild adventure trying to keep from getting caught or killed as they searched for answers to the disappearance. Scarlet was feisty with a temper and stood up for others, a great addition to the cast.

Don't worry, there was plenty of Cinder and Kai in the story too. The Point of View switched between Scarlet, Cinder, Kai, and sometimes Wolf and Thorne. Thorne was pretty hilarious by the way. I won't tell you about him so you can find out for yourself. I didn't get bored when the POV switched because I loved all the characters and want to know what was going on with each of them.

Scarlet was an intense read full of run-for-your-life adventure and romance. I can't wait to read book 3!

Content Ratings: highlight between ( ) to view details
Sexual Content: mild ( mention of escorts, few crude jokes, mention of prisoner entertained by porn, kissing )
Language: very mild ( h***-1 )
Violence: moderate ( fist fights, torture, war with death and animal attacks )

Reviewed by Kathryn Cooper
Creator of Clean Teen Fiction

Buy it!
[ Amazon / The Book Depository ]

Books By Marissa Meyer (Click cover to view on Amazon)

Waiting On Wednesday: Rump: The True Story of Rumpelstiltskin

2013-02-20T05:51:00.001-06:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly post, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine , where we spotlight a book we are anxiously waiting to be published.

Rump: The True Story of Rumpelstiltskin
By Liesl Shurtliff
Publisher: Alfred A. Knopf Book for Young Readers
Release Date: April 9, 2013

Rump has never known his full name—his mother died before she could tell him. So all his life he's been teased and bullied for his half-a-name. But when he finds an old spinning wheel, his luck seems to change. For Rump discovers he can spin straw into gold. Magical gold.

His best friend Red Riding Hood warns him that magic is dangerous—and she's right! That gold is worth its weight in trouble. And with each thread he spins, Rump weaves himself deeper into a curse.

There's only one way to break the spell: Rump must go on a quest to find his true name, along the way defending himself against pixies, trolls, poison apples, and one beautiful but vile-mannered queen. The odds are against him, but with courage and friendship—and a cheeky sense of humor—Rump just might triumph in the end.

An inventive fairytale retelling, perfect for fans of Gail Carson Levine or Shannon Hale.

add to your GoodReads

I have never read a story from the point of view of Rumpelstiltskin so this should be unique. Normally he's the bad guy. I love that his friend is Red Riding Hood. This sounds like an exciting adventurous Middle Grade read! The cover is fantastical too!

What books are you “Waiting On” today?

Books by Liesl Shurtliff (click to view on Amazon)

Happy Anniversary Colt!

2013-02-19T08:33:00.000-06:00

8 years ago my husband Colt and I got married!!! My love for him grows stronger every year.

In honor of this special day I decided to name 8 male fictional characters that my husband is to me. These are from books I know he's read. I love that he reads some of my favorite books. :)

1. You are my WOLF when you keep me safe. (Scarlet by Marissa Meyer)
2. You are my PERCY when you're the hero in my life. (Percy Jackson and The Olympians by Rick Riordan)
3. You are my MARCELLO when you work hard for our family. (River of Time by Lisa T. Bergren)
4. You are my LUCA when you make me laugh so hard my sides hurt. (River of Time by Lisa T. Bergren)
5. You are my KAI when you put my needs before your own. (Matched by Ally Condie)
6. You are my JACOB when we go on adventures together. (Twilight by Stephenie Meyer)
7. You are my EDWARD when your silent stare steals my heart. (Twilight by Stephenie Meyer)
8. You are my PEETA when no matter the good or the bad in our lives we support and love each other and make each other better. (Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins)

I LOVE YOU COLT!

books mentioned (click the cover to view on Amazon)

Book Review: Double Crossed by Ally Carter

2013-02-18T16:53:00.002-06:00

Title: Double Crossed
Author: Ally Carter
Publisher: Disney Hyperion
Release Date: January 2013
Pages: 60
Series: Heist Society #2.5
5 STARS: I LOVED IT!!!

Macey McHenry—Glamorous society girl or spy-in-training?

W.W. Hale V—Heir to an American dynasty or master thief?

There are two sides to every coin. Whether these two can work together is a tossup.

Born into privilege, Macey and Hale are experts at mingling with the upper class. But even if they’ve never raised an eyebrow at the glitz, neither teenager has ever felt at home with the glamour.

When Macey and Hale meet at a society gala, the party takes a dangerous turn. Suddenly they’re at the center of a hostage situation, and it’s up to them to stop the thugs from becoming hostile. Will Macey’s spy skills and Hale’s con-man ways be enough to outsmart a ruthless gang? Or will they have to seek out the ultimate inside girl to help?

The worlds of Heist Society and the Gallagher Girls collide in Ally Carter’s fast-paced, high-stakes and tantalizing new story. Get a behind the scenes glimpse as Ally delivers an irresistible thriller that is full of her signature style and savvy twists.

add to your GoodReads

My Thoughts:
This was a fun and quick read (novella-60 pages). I loved seeing Ally Carter's two book series collide in this novella. Hale is my favorite character in the Heist Society series so that was really fun to see more of him. Macey is cool under pressure and --oh yeah-- a teenage spy in training! So yeah she's fun to read in action too.

An entertaining read full of action that got me exited for the release of the newest book in the Heist Society series, Perfect Scoundrel. Double Crossed free on Amazon so go get it now! Only as an eBook so if you don't have an eReader download a version of an eReader to your computer or read the book straight from Ally Carter's website. CLICK HERE.

Content Ratings: highlight between ( ) to view details
Sexual Content: none
Language: none
Violence: very mild ( some tense moments with hostages )

Reviewed by Kathryn Cooper
Creator of Clean Teen Fiction

Buy it!
[ Amazon ]

Other Books By Ally Carter (Click cover to view on Amazon)

Book Release: Hunter by Cheree Alsop

2013-02-18T09:32:00.005-06:00

Hunter by Cheree Alsop is book 6 in the Silver series. I really enjoyed book 1, Silver. Click HERE to see my review.

Hunter, the sixth book of the Silver Series, is about Dray, a werewolf who feels trapped and alone in his small farming town. He struggles to find his place and fit in despite his differences, then Dray’s world is shaken when a cute girl shows up the same time as a vengeful wild werewolf pack. With Jaze’s help, Dray fights to protect his town, but when Jaze is in trouble, Dray puts everything on the line to help the werewolves who changed his life. Hunter is about finding the courage to step into the unknown. It is a story of risking life for love, and discovering the truth about one’s self in the heart of adversity.

About the Author:

Cheree Alsop is the mother of a beautiful, talented daughter and amazing twin sons who fill every day with light and laughter. She married her best friend, Michael, who changes lives each day in his Chiropractic clinic. Cheree is currently working as an independent author and mother. She enjoys reading, riding her motorcycle on warm nights, and rocking her twins while planning her next book. She is also a bass player for her husband’s garage band.

Cheree and Michael live in Utah where they rock out, enjoy the outdoors, plan great adventures, and never stop dreaming.

Social Media Links:

Stacking The Shelves (11)

2013-02-18T09:17:00.002-06:00

Stacking The Shelves, hosted by Tygna's Reviews, is where bloggers list the books they recently acquired. The books can come from anywhere: publisher, author, giveaway, library, bought.

It's been awhile since I posted one of these! I haven't had a lot of books added to my shelf since I'm trying to keep my life in balance during this pregnancy.

Click the book’s cover to view on Amazon and the title to add to your GoodReads.

From Authors/Publishers:
Finn Finnegan by Darby Karchut
Finding June by Shannen Crane Camp

Bought:
Project ELE by Rebecca Gober and Courtney Nuckels
Scarlet by Marissa Meyer
Freshman for President by Ally Condie

Won:
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (giveaway at Fantastical Adventures Through The Paper Realm)
Stirring up Trouble and Trouble's Brewing by Juli Alexander (giveaway at Clean Romance Reviews)

Thank You to Darby Karchut, Shannen Crane Camp, Emilee, and Jennifer!

Waiting On Wednesday: Scarlet by Marissa Meyer

2013-01-30T09:30:00.000-06:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly post, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine , where we spotlight a book we are anxiously waiting to be published.

Scarlet (The Lunar Chronicles #2)
By Marissa Meyer
Publisher: Feiwel and Friends
Release Date: February 5, 2013

add to your GoodReads

This is book 2 in The Lunar Chronicles. Book 1 was Cinder which was one of my favorite reads of 2012. See My Review! I can't wait to read this book!!! The cover looks great. Even though it'll be the story of Scarlet I hope Cinder and Kai will be in the story a lot so we can find out what happens to them next.

What books are you “Waiting On” today?

Books by Marissa Meyer

My Writing Blog

2013-01-24T11:02:00.004-06:00

Some of you have asked me how my writing is going. My friend has a writing blog that I post on occasionally, and I finally posted today. Click HERE to see my post on Revising My Manuscript. I'll set up a link in the side bar for the blog. Some of the posts are by other aspiring writers. I'll try to post my progress there more often. I hope y'all have a wonderful day! Back to revising I go!

Aspiring Writers Unite! Blog

New Release for FREE: Double Crossed by Ally Carter

2013-01-23T08:25:00.001-06:00

How many of you LOOOOVVVEEE the books by Ally Carter?! I do. She has the wonderful Gallagher Girls series and the Heist Society series. Click covers below to view on Amazon.

Now she has put those 2 worlds together in Double Crossed for a fun short novella for FREE!! Thanks Ally!! Click the cover below to see it on Amazon to get it for your kindle or kindle app. You can get it with other eReaders and without an eReader on her website- GallagherGirls.com. Enjoy!! I started it last night. It's really exciting so far!