Cindy's Love Of Books

30 Day Blog Challenge

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Thu, 23 May 2013 17:39:00 +0000

Well this is it, the last day of the 30 Day Blog Challenge and I managed to blog daily (some times more then once a day) on the blog. I am really happy and I think this has motivated me to blog more on a daily bases.

Next week I will have a bunch of blog posts scheduled to post since I won't be home next week, I will be in New York City for the week to attend Book Expo America and sight seeing.

Here is the topic for today:

What do you consider to be the best thing about starting a blog?

Today's topic is perfect for today because I think one of the best things about starting my blog was to share my thoughts on books, beauty items etc with people who would be interested in reading what I thought.

Having a blog has allowed me to meet so many fantastic people both in real life and online Wither it be bloggers, authors or reps. Some of these people turn into life long friends.

Having a blog has allowed me to attend so many great book events (publisher parties, BEA, author events etc) as well as other events related to other aspects of my blog.

Thanks to me readers for taking the time out to read my blog, I appreciate it.

A Chance to grab I'm Not Her by Janet Gurtle for free

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Tue, 21 May 2013 15:32:00 +0000

I’m Not Her by Janet Gurtler is currently featured as the iBookstore Book of the Week! The ebook will be offered free until May 27.

Please use this link to download Janet’s novel, I’m Not Her on the iBookstore: click on this

Janet Gurtler excels at capturing life’s milestones, bringing a refreshingly authentic voice to stories that tackle the sensitive and transformative rites of passage that define young adulthood. Hailed as “just right for fans of Sarah Dessen and Jodi Picoult” (Booklist), Janet’s novels balance both humor and drama while drawing honest and realistic portraits of her teen characters.

Amusing and heart-wrenching, I’m Not Her is sure to appeal to sisters and teens of all ages.

Tess is the exact opposite of her beautiful, athletic sister. And that’s okay. Kristina is the sporty one, Tess is the smart one, and they each have their place. Until Kristina is diagnosed with cancer. Suddenly Tess is the center of the popular crowd, everyone eager for updates. There are senior boys flirting with her. Yet the smiles of her picture-perfect family are cracking and her sister could be dying. Now Tess has to fill a new role: the strong one. Because if she doesn’t hold it together, who will?

Also, just so you know, Janet’s novel How I Lost You was just published this month. Along with a kick-ass interview on Entertainment Weekly’s Shelf Life blog: http://shelf-life.ew.com/2013/05/05/how-i-lost-you-janet-gurtler/ , Janet is also hosting a month-long “YA Authors Talk BFFs” celebration on her blog where she’s posting interviews with other YA authors about their relationships with their best friends from their teen years to today. It’s actually really fascinating: http://janetgurtler.blogspot.com/

MEME/ Sunday's In Bed With.....#49

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Sun, 12 May 2013 17:00:00 +0000

The awesome blogger behind this mem is Kate from Midnight Book Girl . If you haven't checked out her blog yet you really should hop over there and check it out.

Sundays In Bed With....is a meme I've started to share the book we're spending the morning in bed with, or the one we'd like to stay curled up in bed with all Sunday if only our busy lives would allow! For fun, take a picture of the book in your bed, or simply write up a post or comment below sharing your Sundays in Bed With book. Quoted from Kate's blog.

Is it really that time for another Sunday's In Bed post? Where is the time going?

This morning I was able to sleep in a bit but didn't get to read as much as I would have liked to. I had to go to the hospital this morning to visit my mother again. She is still there and waiting to be transferred to a rehabilitation center for intense therapy on her shoulder.

I hope all my mommy readers had a good Mother's Day today and that you got spoiled. I was really lucky and was spoiled. As you all know one of my gifts was my trip to NYC & BEA at the end of the month.

I also got this as a unexpected gift:

Its the Nokia Lumia 520. When I say it was unexpected I mean unexpected. Sadly on Friday my phone met its untimely death due to phone connecting with water. Needless to say it couldn't be saved so I had to get a new phone. I have been playing with it all weekend and I really do like it.

I also got these for my trip to NYC:

They are so comfy. This is my first pair of Tom's and I have already checked out the website to find out if there is any stores in New York and there is a few. When I was looking at the site I saw a few pairs that interest me that I would like to check out in person.

As I mentioned before I wasn't able to read as much as I would have liked to but I did get some in and will hopefully be going to read in a bit.

This is what I am reading:

I love Terry's books and always devour them. I am sure I will be done this by tomorrow. I started it last night and was practically falling asleep but I just had to read it until finally I couldn't do it any more. I love this book as I do all her previous books.
If you are looking for a great romance shape shifter book, I highly recommend Terry's books.

What are you reading today?

Review/ Identity Theft by Anna Davies

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Mon, 06 May 2013 23:26:00 +0000

Title: Identity Theft
Author: Anna Davies
Pub Date: May 2013
Publisher: Scholastic Inc
Pages: 256

Source: I purchased this book.

Series: Point Horror

It's the return of Point Horror for the Internet generation! Don''t open the door. Don''t answer your phone. And whatever you do, DON''T turn on your computer . . .

Hayley is going to have the best year ever. After years of careful planning, she''s ready to serve as student council president AND editor-in-chief of the newspaper. Ivy League, here she comes!

However, just before student council elections, someone creates a fake facebook profile for Hayley and starts posting inappropriate photos and incriminating updates. It must be the work of a highly skilled Photoshopper, but the attention to detail is scary. The embarrassing photos of "Hayley" in her bathing suit reveal a birthmark on her back - a birth mark Hayley has never shown in public . . . .

The situation escalates until Hayley''s mother reveals some shocking information. Hayley isn''t an only child: She has a twin sister who was adopted by a different family. And that''s not all. Soon, Hayley discovers that her long-lost sister isn''t just playing a prank - she''s plotting to take over Hayley''s life . . . by any means necessary.

This is the second title/book from the relaunched of Point Horror by Scholastic and my very first time reading Anna Davies. The first title/book is called Defriended which I am currently reading.

I have to say that this was a quick and fast read. I read it in two days. It was an okay story but as I was reading this I realized that this is geared more towards the younger crowd then me. I remember reading horror books when I was in high school and let me say that they scared the heck out of me. You all know what I am talking about right?

Hayley is a typical high school student who is working very hard to make a name for herself (in a good way) and she is an over achiever who spends more time studying then doing anything fun and having friends. She is determined to get into an elite college on a scholarship. Things are on the right track since she doesn't do anything but study. She is constantly checking online to make sure her name is in good standings in case the admissions team sees anything.

Then one day as she is looking she spots a fake facebook account and this freaks Haley out because she has no idea who has done this and is quick to blame Adam who is going for that same scholarship. Could it be Adam who did all this or is there someone else that Hayley doesn't know about? I have to admit I was curious about who was doing this considering the extent they were going to and why they would do this.

Will this person's actions jeopardize Hayley's chance to get into the college?

I also have to say that I think more of a story could have developed and I was left wondering about numerous things such as Haley's twin sister, Jamie and I wanted to know more about her and why she was doing what she was doing (being able to break in to Haley's house, steal stuff from her etc), and why did Haley think it was okay to go to Jamie's and then instantly be committed to a mental hospital and finally Jamie's death so very confusing. There was so many unanswered questions.

Is it just me or does anyone else hate that?

MEME/ Sunday's In Bed With...........#48

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Sun, 05 May 2013 12:30:00 +0000

The awesome blogger behind this is Kate from Midnight Book Girl

Sundays In Bed With....is a meme I've started to share the book we're spending the morning in bed with, or the one we'd like to stay curled up in bed with all Sunday if only our busy lives would allow! For fun, take a picture of the book in your bed, or simply write up a post or comment below sharing your Sundays in Bed With book. Quoted from Kate's blog.

Is it really that time for another Sunday's In Bed post? Where is the time going?

Sadly I wasn't able to stay in bed reading because I have to go to the hospital to visit my mother who is currently still in the hospital recovering from her surgery on her broken shoulder and then when I get back we have to leave to go get my in laws and go to a church dinner.

But if I could be reading I would be finishing up this book:

I really like the cover. Aren't the red eyes striking?

What are you reading today?

The Mail Box Post (April 29th - May 3rd)

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Sat, 04 May 2013 12:30:00 +0000

Its hard to believe its already the end of another week. The time is flying by. Which I am happy about considering the past two weeks I have had.

This week was pretty awesome in books. So lets get into it shall we.

The first set of books were ones I won in a contest that James from Book Chic Club was holding on his blog awhile ago. I met James last year at BEA.

Every Other Day and Nobody by Jennifer Lynn Barnes. Both books sound really good and I can't wait to read them.

For review I got a few books:

This past week we also bought some books. For me I got:

Michael bought the following on his birthday gift cards:

This is the first graphic novel in the Thea Stilton series.

This is the second book in the Cave Mice series.

So this is what showed up at our door this week, what about you? Anything interest you in this post?

Going to BEA 2013 (TIPS)

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Fri, 03 May 2013 18:14:00 +0000

Its hard to believe its that time of the year again for Book Expo America. Its happening again in New York City at the Jacob Javitis Center. Running from May 30th to June 1st. I am not quite sure yet how many days I will be attending BEA but I will be in NYC for the entire week.

Are you going to BEA this year? Please leave me a comment so I know if you are going or not.

Is this your first time or have you been before? For me this will be my third time going. I went in 2010 & 2012 and it was a blast.

If your a first time goer I thought I would share some info with you and by no means am I an expert its just stuff that I have seen or has happened to me. Please share any tips you have or may want to know.

1) Comfortable shoes. This is going to be repeated over and over but trust me you will do a lot of walking around NYC and Javitis. I had shoes that I thought were comfy but my first day in NYC I ended up getting blisters which meant I had to rush out and buy sneakers. Funny enough it seemed like I could not get my size anywhere. The second year I went I had on comfortable shoes and I enjoyed NYC and BEA much more then the previous time.

2) Pack lightly. This is something I did right I packed enough for the week only and one or two extra tops just in case I went out. I admit I have a bad habit of over packing because really you never know what is going to happen, right? Plan out what you are planning on wearing before hand.

3) Business cards. You will be handing out cards to all kinds of publishers and reps plus a few bloggers perhaps. This year I got I got a ton of cards with my new look. Last year I ended up having to use the cards from my old look.

4) Shuttle buses. Every year shuttle bus are provided to BEA attendees. Take advantage of them if you can. Just check where the nearest one is from your hotel. I took them in the morning and they were pretty quick but leaving at the end of the day is another story because you will be in rush hour. Also you should know that there is no shuttle buses running during the day so basically its the morning and afternoon.

5) Getting into BEA. I heard this has been a problem the first year I went. You don't have to push, shove or cut to get in the show floor. Be patient and wait. Some people have been there way before you. I didn't see anything because I was attending an author breakfast when the doors opened but I did hear alot of people complaining about this.

6) Snacks and water. Just a heads up eating at Javitis is super expensive. You honestly could buy three water bottles for the price you will pay inside plus lunch was super expensive inside as well. I bought a bottle with me and just refilled it and I made sure I had some snacks to tie me over. If your hotel provides breakfast you can grab an apple or banana. I am guilty of doing that. Plan ahead. I heard that there was a food cart outside selling hotdogs so that could be a cheaper alternative to eating inside.

7) Another alternative to shipping. Suitcases aren't allowed on the floor but you can check it in for a small daily fee (under $5 a day is what they charged last year). The section is downstairs. (As you walk in from getting off the shuttle buses) There is always someone there to watch over the suitcases. I didn't have a problem with leaving my books in the suitcase. It helped when my arms were getting sore. Just a heads up to pin point your suitcase if its like everyone elses grab a scarf from the dollar store and tie it on the handles.

8) Shipping. There is shipping on site to ship your books home (which I think I will be doing this time but it all depends on my budget) or you can walk to the nearest post office and use them. The only thing with shipping is I heard that some people take it upon themselves to raid other peoples boxes. I know this for a fact because it happened to a blog I follow. So anything that is of value keep it with you. I just think for people to do that is just wrong. Its basically stealing in my eyes. So if you want your books to be save and sound I suggest the suitcase on wheels. Just remember there is no suitcases etc on the show room floor.

8a) Shipping. I just wanted to add to this because this happened to me last year. Before going to BEA research and find out where you can ship your books off site such as where is the nearest local post office, (Greeley Sqaure, 39 W 31st) Fed Ex (560 W 42nd Street), UPS (1357 Broadway & 601 W 43rd Street & 1514 Broadway inside the Toys R Us Lower level), because using Fed Ex and UPS on site will cost you more. I found out the box I had sent from their would have cost me half of what I would have paid had I took it off site.

9) Be polite and professional. I know this is easier said then done but really what you do will reflect on you and all book bloggers. It takes just two seconds to say "Excuse Me" "Sorry" Thank You" you will be surprised at how far those words can go and mean to someone. Just remember your actions are going to be reflected on us as bloggers. Always say thank you to some who hands you a book or swag. Just remember BEA has been kind enough to allow bloggers to attend this professional event.

10) Common sense and courtesy. If you are standing in line please don't be saving spots for ten of your friends, other people behind you have been waiting just as long as you or cutting into the line for that same reason. Personally I don't mind one or two but when you text or call them to say the line is moving and the next thing you know 10 additional people are ahead of you. (This has happened to me quite a few times my first year there.) Also if you see one person talking to another (in a line) and one person moves to talk don't get all in there face and yell them out for line jumping that isn't cool especially when they say they have no interest in the book. (I witnessed that and sadly I know the blogger that did that) and once I got home I ended up unfollowing that blog.

11) The displays, booths or other peoples boxes in shipping. This one might get me into trouble but just because your at BEA that doesn't entitle you to just take something from a display or box (either a fellow attendees or in a booth or conference room) without permission. Always ask someone before you take something from a booth. Those boxes are sealed for a reason. As for the shipping area I really think that is wrong for you to go into someone's box and take what ever you want. Its not your box, that person you are stealing from probably went through alot of trouble to get those books. How would it feel if someone did that to you? Pretty crumby right?

12)Keep the flow of traffic going. Don't stop in the middle of the isle to chit chat with friends and start pulling out your books to show what you got. Move to the side if you want to do that. I don't know how many people I bumped into because of that. The isle's aren't that big and you have to remember that there is alot of people walking around with bags full of books.

13) Getting around NYC. The best way to see the city is really to walk but if you can't I have to suggest the subway. Its not as scary as it sounds although I wish the people who worked inside the booths were a little more friendlier and approachable. The subway system can be a little complicated so you should know where you are going. This was the most I ever walked around a city and I enjoyed it. Except when I got lost and no one seemed to know where anything was.

14) Sight seeing. Don't go to NYC just for BEA get out and do some sight seeing. There is so much to see and do. This year I am hoping to get more sight seeing down and as its looking I know Monday and Friday will be those days for me possibly more.

So if your going have fun and remember going to BEA is a privilege, not a right. Don't walk in there with entitlement thinking that you deserve to do whatever you want just because you are a book blogger.

(BEA) The Room Mate Edition

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Thu, 02 May 2013 14:31:00 +0000

This is probably going to be my third and final year being able to attend Book Expo America because we are planning on taking a family vacation to Disney in 2014.

If you are looking to go to BEA and are on a limited budget then I highly recommend you go the route of looking for roommates instead of doing it alone, if you don't mind sharing that is.

The first year I went with a local blogger friend Linda. It was so much fun and we knew then that the only way to go so that we both could afford it was sharing a room. It was so much fun.

When I knew I was going the second time, I went that same route and searched out a roommate. But this time instead of sharing with one person I shared with three others. This was a first for me and honestly I was a little scared because I only knew these ladies from there blogs. It turned out to be a fanastic and memoriable week. My roommates were Kate (midnightbookgirl) , Kimberly (On The Wings of Books) and Kellie (Snarky Books, Uber Nerd) .

I knew when I was planning on going this time that I needed once again to go the route of roomies. This time was a little harder at first in finding room mates (not sure why) and sadly my first two didn't work out for various reasons but I am thankfully to have found two for now to share with.

So my two room mates for the week will be Sheila from Book Journey and Stacy from The Novel Life.

**Update**
Sadly I have to make a quick note and say that Stacy won't be rooming with us. Something came up that has caused Stacy to back out and we totally understand. We will miss you Stacy. You will be there in spirit**

I have known Sheila from the day I almost started blogging and during the first BEA I always ended up missing her so we never met. Then when I went last year we exchange numbers and hoped to work something out well low and behold I found out she was staying at the same hotel as me so we were constantly bumping into each other.

I can officially say since I was the one heading into NYC first (Sunday May 26th) I took over the reines and hunted down a place for us to stay and after numerous (and I mean numerous) emails and texts and calls- Sheila can vouch for me on this we finally secured a place to stay for the week.

Its going to be a fun week I am sure of it. I am looking forward to hanging out with Sheila and Stacy and all the other bloggers I meet.

BEA-The Book Blogger Connections List

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Wed, 01 May 2013 17:45:00 +0000

While ~~stalking~~ reading Sheila's (Book Journey's Blog) this week I noticed she did a post about Book Expo America (I should tell you that when ever I see anything BEA related I get excited, I love BEA and NYC) and a way for bloggers to connect while in NYC and at BEA.

Honestly one of the best things about BEA apart from the books is meeting bloggers. I honestly love meeting a blogger who I follow. I have been lucky to meet some truly awesome people through my blog and getting to put a real face to the blog is awesome.

I am lucky enough to be rooming this year with some awesome bloggers (and you will find out who they are tomorrow in a blog post).

So the lovely Sheila has created a form (clicking on this will bring you to the form ) that you can fill in (some of the form is optional) letting her know that you will be attending BEA and a week before BEA she will email everyone who took part so that if you can see who is going and perhaps if there is someone you would like to meet up with you can.

This will be my third time going and honestly for the majority, the bloggers you will meet will be like they are on their blogs. I think I have more fun connecting the blogger to the blog and meeting them.

Don't be afraid to contact someone if you want to meet up, although I can't speak for everyone but I do know I don't bite :)

So if you are going please CLICK ON THIS TO TAKE YOU TO THE FORM

Looking forward to seeing you there :)

StarLooks April Edition

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Wed, 01 May 2013 00:39:00 +0000

What a perfect way to wrap up the month with April then with my monthly StarLooks subscription. I received the box today in the mail and as soon as I brought it in the house I ripped it open. I love that this isn't a huge well known subscription because I never see alot of spoilers on the box and honestly I love that. I like being surprised each month.

I think this has to be one of my favorite monthly subscription services out there. This month the box is a very pretty blue with brown. I never really thought that these colored went well together until I got the box this month.

As you can see this package was moved around alot because normally the tissue paper stays in place but thats okay. Inside the carried the silver theme into the box which is another nice touch StarLooks does each month. You can see alot of detail goes into the box each month.

Another touch to detail is the product cards they send out each month. The cards are always different and feature real life models wearing the StarLooks products.

This month is considered the Neutral month and its suited for all skin tones.

As always each month we get full size items. Which is another thing I love and I have to say I love the quality of the items. As always I am always excited to try everything out.

This month we got a Translucent/Nude Mineralized Powder. This is perfect for combating shine. I was a little worried that it would go on white but it actually goes on invisible. This sales for $19 on the StarLooks site.

Next up is the Sensation Mascara Primer. This is going to soothe the lashes and moisturize them. This is also the perfect base coat before applying that mascara we got last month in out box. It will also allow your mascara to be applied clump free and make it long lasting. This sales for $15 on the site.

Finally the last item is a Tender Gloss Lipstick in the shade Trinity. It looks dark but its really a nice neutral shade that gives off a natural color look with some shimmer to it. This would probably be something I would use when I was going out in the evening. This sales for $11 on the site.

Now your probably saying to yourself how can that be the last item when you see another tube well this month we were lucky enough to get another bonus item. This is a StarLooks exclusive item. Its the StarLooks Mint flavored SPF Lip Balm. I liked the taste of the lip balm and it went on really nice. They suggest you apply this after you use the lip scrub from last month so that you can keep your lips protected and looking good all day. this is something I threw in my purse and will be using all the time. The suggested price is $5.

This month the box has a value of $50. So as you can see it was well worth the subscription fee I paid for this. I always get my money's worth and then some from this box.

I am so excited to see what I get next month. What interests you this month?

Do You any BEA Related Posts You Would Like to Share?

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 17:34:00 +0000

I'm not sure if its just me, but for some reason this time around there doesn't seem to be alot of BEA related posts compared to other years. I have also noticed that several bloggers are saying the same thing.

So, what I thought about was making this post and if any bloggers have any BEA posts for this year or past years that you would like to share I would invite you to leave your link.

Thanks for leaving a link if you do and please leave me a comment if you think that this is helpful.

Just a heads up every Saturday in May I will be doing various posts that involve BEA things.

See you at BEA

Cover Reveal/ Strangely Normal by Tess Oliver

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 05:00:00 +0000

Title: Strangely Normal

Author: Tess Oliver

Book Description:

A unique summer job lands eighteen-year-old Eden Saxon into a lifestyle completely different than her own. She becomes a companion for nineteen-year-old Finley King, the daughter of a rock legend. Finley suffers from severe anxiety, and her father fears her being alone. Eden leaves her loving, but wildly dysfunctional, parents and dreary apartment and enters a world where no luxury is overlooked. She instantly adores Finley and her charming, quirky personality. The whole situation has only one flaw– Finley’s older brother, Jude. Jude King is cocky, arrogant and irritating. Unfortunately, he’s also completely irresistible.

Eden realizes she’s underestimated the depth of Finley’s problems, and suddenly her dream job turns out to be a lot more than she’d expected. Eden soon finds herself in over her head . . . and her heart.

About Tess Oliver

Tess Oliver is a teacher and writer who lives in California with her husband, kids, a small pack of pampered dogs, and the recent addition of three ridiculously cute pygmy goats. She loves horses, chocolate and Jane Austen books. She has a BS of Nutrition Science, and a MA in Curriculum and Instruction. She is also an author published by Barron's Educational Publisher.

Website: http://www.tessoliver.com/
Blog: http://tessoliverauthor.blogspot.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tessoliverauthor
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4178161.Tess_Oliver
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Tess_Oliver

Teaser:

He placed down his pencil and walked across the floor toward me. The crackling energy I’d felt between us the night before when he’d stood over my bed returned now and grew with hot intensity as the space between us disappeared. I was not the only one noticing the sudden charge in the atmosphere between us. He stopped directly in front of me, and even with loud music bouncing off the walls, I could hear the unnaturally fast rhythm of his breathing.

He hesitated a moment and then his hand came up slowly and brushed the hair off my face. His fingertips had only grazed my cheek, but I felt the sensation of his touch through my entire body. He looked back at me as if he’d smoothed his hands over every inch of my skin. The air between us heated and what had started out as a casual session between an artist and his subject had somehow erupted into something completely different.

MEME/ Sunday's In Bed With....#47

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Sun, 28 Apr 2013 14:25:00 +0000

The awesome blogger behind this is Kate from Midnight Book Girl not only is she an awesome blogger but she is was one of my roommates for BEA 2012. YAY!!

Sundays In Bed With....is a meme I've started to share the book we're spending the morning in bed with, or the one we'd like to stay curled up in bed with all Sunday if only our busy lives would allow! For fun, take a picture of the book in your bed, or simply write up a post or comment below sharing your Sundays in Bed With book. Quoted from Kate's blog.

Is it really that time for another Sunday's In Bed post? Where is the time going? I am literally less then a month away from leaving for NYC and BEA and I am so excited. Are you going to BEA this year?

If you read my previous post you know what has been going on in my life this past weel/month.

This morning I don't really need to be anywhere so I plan on taking it easy. I have some laundry, cleaning and grocery shopping to do and hopefully between all that I can get a little reading in there and if I can I am going to be reading this:

It sounds really good and I love the cover of the book. Is anybody else reading this or plans on reading this?
What are you reading today?

The Mail Box Post (April 22nd - 27th)

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Sat, 27 Apr 2013 13:48:00 +0000

What a week it has been and I will slowly be back posting all the things I needed to have post the past week and I should apologize if your feed reader gets swamped with posts from me.

If you are on my personal facebook page then you already know what has happened this past week. Its been crazy and I honestly believe things happen in three's so hopefully good things will now happen. Since most of you aren't on my personal face book page I shall fill you all in.

It started about two/three weeks ago when I had finalized my BEA roommates (that post is to come) and accommodations (that will be a post probably when I get back from BEA) and we had decided we needed to book by April 13th (we were getting a little worried we wouldn't find something) so finally finding a place that was somewhat reasonable I was set to book it, when low and behold I get a call from my credit card company saying my card has been compromised. AGH why now, why this week? Thankfully I was able to use my card to reserve the room and I wouldn't be billed until check in.

It sucks having your card compromised but what can you do. Thankfully since I live in Canada I was still able to use it because here when you swipe the card you need to enter a pin (unlike that of the US I found out).

Fast forward to last weekend that was Michael's 10th birthday. I went to the bank to change my pin number when I discovered that I already had a huge bill on my credit card, according to the total it showed I spent almost $2600 in a week and I knew that was impossible because I wasn't out shopping alot last week. Well when I called the credit card it appears that someone in the US took it upon themselves to do 6 cash advances on my card. So to the croaks who did that THANKS ALOT!!!!!!! Not, I told the agent right away when I called and now I am just waiting for the paper work to come in to sign.

So that is number one, number two was while I was getting ready for Michael's 10th birthday with family I ended up stubbing my big toe really bad (cracked nail etc) and I have been limping around in pain. This is the first time I have ever stubbed it this badly.

At last but not least the major thing that happened this week was on Tuesday I get a call from my mother's neighbor telling me she fell and was bring rushed to the hospital. We discovered she broke her shoulder very badly and it would require surgery on Friday. Well she fought it every step of the way refusing to allow the nurses to do what they needed to do, refusing her medication, refusing to eat and refusing surgery. Sadly she lost that battle because we made her sign the papers and she is slowly recovering in the hospital. So that is why I haven't been posting much this week because I am there every day.

Anyways on to the reason of this post...books

I got this one for review:

The Longest Holiday by Paige Toon. I have never read anything by Paige before but from the back description it sounds really good and the perfect summer reading book.

This week I ended up buying two books as you can. Its been a stressful week/month

The Elite by Kiera Cass is the second book in the series. Looking forward to starting this series. I love the covers.

Icons by Margaret Stohl's first solo book. I am so excited to read this and I will probably start this one when I am done writing this post.

So this is what came to my door this week, what about you?

Panty Fly April Edition

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 18:06:00 +0000

If you remember earlier this month I did my first Panty Fly post (click here to see it) and that was actually the March shipment. Since that post I have worn what I got with the exception to one pair that didn't fit all that great. Which wasn't that big of deal considering I paid less then $7/month for the subscrition.

Before writing this post I went to check out Panty Fly's site to see if anything has changed and there was a change made from the last post. Shipping is now free to Canadians and US.

This subscription auto renews.

The subscription has two options: monthly of 3 pairs of panties (your choice in style) for $9 or prepay for three months and get 9 pairs of panties (your choice of style) for $18.

So this is my second shipment from them and what a difference from last month. These are from the style Sleek & Sexy. I honestly probably wouldn't have bought these particular patterns because they are so out there for me.

Sadly I tried to get as much info as I could on the underwear but alot of it come up with nothing very helpful mainly the price fo them.

The flowered ones are by a company called Vision Intimate INC I pair I got wasn't even listed on the site and there was no prices for anything similar so not sure how much this would retail for if you were to purchase it.

The grey printed ones in the back came up with nothing. So I have no idea about the company or the cost.

The third pair (the white ones) is another one I couldn't find any info on.

I have to say I was excited when I got the package but once I opened it I wasn't so sure. I will have to see how well they will fit because even though they are in my size. They look a little small for me. If not I will contact the company since they offer:

We offer a 100% money back guarantee on all or our products. If you are not happy for any reason let us know, we will make it right or refund you payment.

What do you think of this kind of service?

30 Day Blog Challenge...Day 2

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 16:16:00 +0000

Welcome to day 2 in the 30 Day Blog Challenge. Today's topic is:

What is your middle name and what is it's significance?

My middle name is Mary. Apart from it being a Saint's name there is no other significance to it. I wish I had some fantastic story to tell you but I don't.

Does your name have any significance to it?

Today I am Featured on.......

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 18:14:00 +0000

Last month I got an email from GlossyBox informing me that I was selected as a Blogger Of the Month for the anniversary box. I was so happy because GlossyBox is one of my favorite subscription services I get each month.

I have been with GlossyBox from day 1 which was over a year ago. I thought it was an honor to have been given permission to attend their GlossyBox party last June and I was so happy and excited to go but I have to say being featured as a Blogger of the Month is by far the best.

So please click ON THESE WORDS to go and check it out.

Thanks GlossyBox for this honor.

As part of the Blogger of the Month I will be given an goodie bag and as soon as I get it I will update this post.

30 Day Blog Challenge... Day 1

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 16:00:00 +0000

Today's 30 Day Blog Challenge Day 1 topic is:

Put your iPod on shuffle. List the first 10 songs that play.

I was lucky enough to get my very first iPod this past Christmas and I was so excited that I couldn't wait to download music on it. Well I have to tell you that I am NOT technology savvy at all and if I don't have things laid out in front of me with detail instructions I suck at it so needless to say I only had a few songs that I purchased on it.

Thankfully my nephew came over this past weekend and explained and showed me how to download music onto my iPod so since then I have been gradually adding music on to it.

So I put it on shuffle and this is my 10 song list:

Something Stupid by Michael Buble featuring Reese Witherspoon
22 by Taylor Swift
Locked Out of Heaven by Bruno Mars
You're Gonna Miss This by Trace Atkins
Good Times by Owl City & Carly Rae Jepsen
Closer by Tegan & Sara
Marry Me by Train
Its a beautiful Day by Michael Buble
Scream & Shout by Will.i.am featuring Britney Spears
Troublemake by Olly Murs featuring Flo Rider

30 Day Blog Challenge

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 03:00:00 +0000

When I was scrolling through my blog feeder today, I discovered this 30 Day Blog Challenge posted over on Insane Mamacita's blog.

The idea behind this challenge is to get you back into blogging daily again. This is something that at times has been lacking on my blog. I always sit at the computer with the intention to blog but never do. I know this is normal with real life happening but I honestly miss blogging daily so perhaps this will motivate me to get back into it.

If you want to take part be sure to head over to this initial post over at Insane Mamacita's blog and either email her or leave it in the comments with the link to your inital post.

Will you be taking part?

Here are the blog posts daily topics:

1. Put your iPod on shuffle. List the first 10 songs that play.

2. What is your middle name and what is it's significance?

3. What is inside your purse?

4. What is your zodiac sign? Does it fit your personality?

5. Do you believe in an afterlife? Explain.

6. Bullet your entire day.

7. What animal would you love to have as a pet?

8. Who are/were your current (and past) celebrity crush(es)?

9. Do you volunteer? If you do, list what you have volunteered for.

10. What is the thing you wish you were most great at?

11. Describe a few of your strengths.

12. Describe a few of your weaknesses.

13. What was your first car? What is your current vehicle?

14. Who do you admire the most?

15. Name your favourite TV show(s).

16. What was your first job? What is your current occupation?

17. Tell us your favourite junk food.

18. Your favourite subject to study.

19. Where would you like to live and/or visit one day?
20. Do you have a favourite season? What is it and why?

21. If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be and why?

22. What is your most prized possession?

23. If you could make 3 wishes to come true, what would they be and why?

24. What is one thing you would change about the world and why?

25. Are you messy or neat?

26. What did you want to be when you were a kid, teenager, now?

27. What are you passionate about?

28. What is your favourite store?

29. What are some of your fears?

30. What do you consider to be the best thing about starting a blog?

The Mail Box Post (April 15th to 20th)

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Sat, 20 Apr 2013 00:27:00 +0000

This week I got nothing in the mail in way of books but I did get something from the Scholastic book fair that was taking place at Michael's school. I was thrilled to see this sitting on the table and instantly bought one book.

I have been hearing greatt hings about the book and was told I should read it. I love the cover of this book.

What did you get this week in books?

Armchair BEA 2013 Registration is now OPEN

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 18:24:00 +0000

By now you are probably getting a little fed up with all the talk of bloggers who are going to be, right?

Well fear not because the 4th annual Armchair BEA is up and running and taking registations.

What is Armchair BEA you ask?

Well if you're a book blogger who can't attend Book Expo America and the Book Blogger Convention in New York this May (May 30th, 31st and June 1st), you don't have to miss all the fun - this virtual convention is the place to be!

When I first started blogging in 2008 it was late August so I had no idea what BEA until much later that year. I didn't get to attend in 2009 because I just couldn't afford it so in 2010 a bunch of Montreal book bloggers decided we should go so we did and it was a blast.

I couldn't attend in 2011 so I took part in Armchair BEA and I had a blast. I was bummed that I couldn't attend but honestly taking part in this took my mind off of not going. I had so much fun and if you are feeling bummed then I highly recommed this. You will have a blast. Trust me.

Will you be taking part in Armchair BEA?

MEME? Sunday's In Bed With..... #45

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Sun, 14 Apr 2013 17:20:00 +0000

The awesome blogger behind this is Kate from Midnight Book Girl not only is she an awesome blogger but she is was one of my roommates for BEA. YAY!!

Sundays In Bed With....is a meme I've started to share the book we're spending the morning in bed with, or the one we'd like to stay curled up in bed with all Sunday if only our busy lives would allow! For fun, take a picture of the book in your bed, or simply write up a post or comment below sharing your Sundays in Bed With book. Quoted from Kate's blog.

Is it really that time for another Sunday's In Bed post? Where is the time going? I am literally 42 days away from leaving for NYC and BEA and I am so excited.

This morning was our very first weekend where we didn't have to rush to an arena.

Last Sunday, we made it to the finals in a local city tournament and the team walked away winners of the tournament and this is the photo that was taken of Michael during the tournament. I love this picture of him.

So basically apart from taking Michael to his Faith First classes and doing groceries all that is on our agenda to day is working on this castle project he has to do for school. He literally has to build a castle and label it for a school project. When its complete I will post pictures.

I am hoping to get some reading in today if possible and if I can I will be reading this:

What are you reading today?

The Mailbox Post (April 8th to 14th)

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 23:23:00 +0000

As you can see my mailboxes seem to be fewer and farther apart lately. Not sure why that is because I do know I have a few requests coming in and perhaps the delay is actually at the border. Which I kind of don't mind because that gives me time to read the ones I do have.

For review this week I only have this advance readers copy (due out June 2013)

I did buy two books this week as you can see.

I read Beautiful Disaster (book 1) and I enjoyed it so I was curious to see where the story would go and will be reviewing both books at the same time. Walking Disaster is book 2.

Michael has been dying for this Geronimo Stilton Graphic novel to come to our Chapters store so when he saw it he wanted it right away. This is the 12 graphic novel.

So that is my week in books, what did you get?

Panty Fly March/April Edition

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 16:37:00 +0000

I have to start off by saying that Amanda from My Pretty Distractions raved about this new subscription service (that is available to Canadians) that I figured I would try it out. Sadly I don't know if this is March's shipment or April's. Although I am thinking this could very well be March's since they did mention that your first one is shipped within 48 hours and it would be right since I did subscribed in March.

When I look at their site I see they updated some info. I actually paid this when I signed up for 3 months.

They offer the following:

3 Pairs of underwear – $7/month + $2.50 shipping ($9.50)
3 Pairs of underwear (3 months prepaid) – $15 shipping included
3 Pairs of underwear (12 months prepaid) – $75 shipping included

When I first signed up at the end of March I was only charged a flat rate shipping of $1 but since then its gone up to $2.50 which I don't mind since it cost them $2.85 to mail it to me this month.

You can expect to receive your subscription around the 15th of the month. Also if you prepaid you only get charged shipping once.

Panty Fly offers three subscription styles and they are:

Barely There

Sleek & Sexy (this is the style I subscribed to)

Mix & Match

Since Amanda had raved about this subscription service I figured I would give it a try and figured I honestly had nothing to loose I mean it would be 3 pairs of underwear for $5/month. I have discovered in the past that sometimes the cheapest thing will last the longest. Don't worry they are made with cotton so you won't get some freaky weird material.

Today I got my first shipment and I have to say that I am impressed. I wasn't worried about the packaging since I knew it would come like this:

The envelope is a plain white and the only thing on it was the labels no other markings to what would be inside.

So here is what I got this month. The pink modern brief and the hipster in green/pink are by American Apparel and retail for $15 and $12. The last pair which is sort of a gold color (which you can't really tell from this picture)is from MaMia and I couldn't find this online but I did see similar for $2.99.

So roughly this would have cost $27.99 and I got this for $5.00 shipped to my door.

I have to say I am really impressed with the quality and the brands I got this month and I can't wait to see what the next shipment will bring.

What do you think? Would it be something you would subscribe to?

MEME/ Sunday's In Bed With........ #44

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy's Love of Books) — Sun, 07 Apr 2013 11:00:00 +0000

The awesome blogger behind this is Kate from Midnight Book Girl not only is she an awesome blogger but she is was one of my roommates for BEA. YAY!!

Sundays In Bed With....is a meme I've started to share the book we're spending the morning in bed with, or the one we'd like to stay curled up in bed with all Sunday if only our busy lives would allow! For fun, take a picture of the book in your bed, or simply write up a post or comment below sharing your Sundays in Bed With book. Quoted from Kate's blog.

Is it really that time for another Sunday's In Bed post? Where is the time going? Can you believe we are already into April? The time is flying by. Gee before we know it, I will be heading to BEA/NYC.

Sadly I won't be in bed reading because I have to have Michael at the arena for 7:15 to play his final game in one tournament (its being hosted by another hockey club). Its the finals so someone will be going home with a trophy. Will it be our team? Lets hope so.

Then after that game we will be going out to breakfast with the team to celebrate either a win or getting to the finals depending on the outcome.

Then if that isn't enough we will be heading to another arena for our city tournament game. I found out just before writing this post that we are currently at the top in the Atom C division for our city tournament with 1000 points that is about 500 more than the other teams so we are looking GREAT!

Its going to be a busy hockey weekend and depending on how we play that last game will determine if we are out or are in for another game which would be next Saturday and then that's it for another season.

What are you reading today?