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The Temptation (Kindred #1) by Alisa Valdes

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Thu, 24 May 2012 15:00:00 +0000

The Temptation (Kindred #1) by Alisa Valdes
Release Date: April 24, 2012
Publisher: HarperTeen
Age Group: Young Adult
Pages: 320

Summary: His touch was electric.
His eyes were magnetic.
His lips were a temptation....
But was he real?

After crashing her car on an empty highway, Shane is miraculously saved by Travis, a mysterious cowboy who walks out of nowhere. She is instantly attracted to him, and for the first time, she believes in “soul mates.” But Shane soon discovers that Travis is dead and that strict rules from the Underworld govern kindred spirits of different dimensions. Breaking these rules could destroy both their souls. And while Travis is almost impossible to resist, temptation proves to be the kindest enemy they encounter.

Can true love surpass the power of pure evil? Part love story, part supernatural thriller, this first book in the Kindred trilogy will leave readers lusting for more!

My Thoughts: So, this sounds right up my alley. It sounds like something I would really love, a 5 cupcake rating. But it just wasn’t for me.

We are introduced to Shane who lives with her mother. She is just a normal girl with a boyfriend named Logan. Until one day, she gets in a car accident. Her car is totaled, and she is hurt badly, even on the brink of death. Until a mysterious boy steps up and heals her. His name is Travis. He is a sort of cowboy. He looks the part, and acts the part. This sounded so yummy to me.

She encounters Travis, and instantly falls in love with him. I hate the insta love thing! I hate it, I hate it, I hate it! It just doesn’t work in novels for me! Travis shows up again one day and gives her the necklace of hers he found. He randomly starts showing up, in different forms. Confused yet? Yes, that is what I thought too. What do you mean different forms? Read the novel to find out. Vampire, werewolf, shapeshifter, ghost, angel?

Travis and his brother are in a sort of purgatory. They committed some wrongs and are trying to make up for it in the afterlife. And of course, they have an enemy who wants to hurt them more. Yep, Shane gets caught in the crossfire of that dilemma.

Honestly, The Temptation was an ok book but it just wasn’t for me. About halfway through I almost didn’t even finish it. I didn’t hate this one, but I also felt myself not caring at times and I just wanted the story to hurry up so I could at least find out the ending. Maybe some people will like this more than me. I’m just not a big fan of insta love, or the way they assumed they were “soulmates” from the beginning. I can at least say I finished it, and it was an alright novel.

Overall: I read a lot of novels, and not every novel is going to be a 5 cupcake rating for me, and this one just wasn’t the right kind of novel for me and that is ok. I accept that I won’t always love novels and that some can just be average books for me. Maybe you’ll enjoy it a lot more than me.

Cover: I do like the cover. It’s not real colorful, but like how he fades in the background.

What I’d Give It:

Of Poseidon by Anna Banks

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Tue, 22 May 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Of Poseidon by Anna Banks

Release Date: May 22, 2012
Publisher: Feiwel And Friends
Age Group: Young Adult
Pages: 336

Summary: Emma and her friend Chloe are spending vacation in Florida. When Emma (literally) runs into a hot guy named Galen on the beach, little does she know he’s a prince of the Syrena. Galen and Emma both feel something strange – is it attraction? – and Galen suspects that Emma might well be the girl he’s heard of – a human who can communicate with fish.

What follows is a deadly scene with a shark in which Galen witnesses Emma’s gifts. He must know more about her, and follows her back to New Jersey, and high school, to find out for sure if she’s the key to saving his kingdom. Soon, Emma can’t deny her feelings for him, but can’t explain them, either – and both she and Galen must learn more about where she comes from and what her powers are before they can trust one another and their feelings.

My Thoughts: All I must say is ohmysweetgoodness, this is an amazing debut! Seriously amazing. Adored this novel. Read it in two sittings!

We are introduced to Emma, average 18 year old high school student. Lives with her mother, father died a few years ago. We start off with Emma and her friend Chloe at the beach where she runs (literally) into a boy named Galen. He is a very handsome boy.

Emma suffers a great tragedy that day that really brings her down.

She decides to attend classes a few days later and guess who ends up being in all of her classes, yes, Galen.

Emma and Galen become close and she gets introduced to his sister and her mate, and a few of his friends.

A lot of things are happening to Emma. She can breathe underwater for a long time, she has thick skin, and just doesn't seem to be very "normal."

On their quest to find out the truth, Emma and Galen discover they have more of a connection than they would have ever thought possible. But they can't ever really do anything about it because she's promised to another.

Honestly, I didn't know what I would think going into Of Poseidon. Mermaid books are either a hit or miss with me. This novel is clearly something magical. The voice is believeable, Emma is a lovable character and Galen is a handsome snarky character.

Of Poseidon had a beautiful vibe to it. Just something about it while reading it that felt magical to me. Maybe it was all the fishes swimming around, or even the Titantic reference. I'm not sure exactly what it was but I loved every minute of it. And the cliffhanger, yep I'm hooked and I need the next book now.

Of Poseidon is a fantastic, magical novel filled with sea creatures, mystery, and love.

Overall: If you can't tell from above, I loved it! Please please do yourself a favor and read this novel as soon as possible. You won't regret it! Awesome novel!

Cover: Adore it! Love all the blue coloring and how she's swimming underwater!

What I'd Give It:

Love?Maybe by Heather Hepler

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Sun, 20 May 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Love?Maybe by Heather Hepler
Release Date: January 5, 2012
Publisher: Dial
Age Group: Young Adult
Pages: 272

Summary: Just because Piper's birthday is on Valentine's Day does not mean she's a romantic. In fact, after watching her father and then her stepfather leave, she's pretty sure she doesn't believe in love at all. Then her friends concoct a plan to find them all Valentine's dates, and somehow Piper finds herself with the most popular guy in school. But true love never follows a plan, and a string of heartfelt gifts from a secret admirer has Piper wondering if she might be with the wrong guy.

In this heartwarming romance, true love is more than a maybe - and it might be closer than you think.

My Thoughts: Sometimes I’m just in the mood for a light breezy romance. Sometimes I’m in the mood for a story that features a candy shop or a flower shop. This book had it all!

We are introduced to Piper who was born on Valentines Day. Every girls dream right? Wrong! Piper is very cynical and isn’t thrilled with the whole candy/flowers/romance on Valentines Day. She couldn’t care less.

Who can really blame Piper? Her father left her, her step father left her, she’s afraid of being left again.

Piper and her two best friends make up a plan. A plan to get their dream dates, all with a magical spell. Is magic even real they wonder? It’s worth a shot. We also see a lot of a boy named Charlie who is Piper’s next door neighbor.

Each girl picks out a girl they will try to get, and go from there. When the most popular boy at school takes an interest in Piper, she is happy to go along with it. Happy enough anyway. He is after all Ben Donovan!

Piper also works at a candy shop where she helps create new flavors. Her mom owns the flower shop next door.

This was a bit predictable but still enjoyable. From the moment Piper gets surprise gifts in her locker, I had my heart set on who it was. I also loved the family aspect of Love Maybe. I loved her mom and her cute brother and sister.

Love Maybe was a really cute novel. You should read this one during the summer or around Valentine’s Day to really get the full effect of it.

Overall: I really liked it a lot. It could have been a little more creative, as I knew what was going to happen before it happened, but it was still the right kind of book for my mood. If you're in the mood for a romance book, this is it! If you don’t like all the kissing in books, than this is for you. It was a pretty clean YA book.

Cover: Really like the candy hearts! And the shape!

What I’d Give It:

Dark Kiss by Michelle Rowen

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Fri, 18 May 2012 16:00:00 +0000

Dark Kiss by Michelle Rowen
Release Date: May 22, 2012
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Age Group: Young Adult
Pages: 352

Summary: I don't do dangerous. Smart, über-careful, ordinary Samantha-that's me. But I just couldn't pass up a surprise kiss from my number-one unattainable crush. A kiss that did something to me...something strange. Now I feel hungry all the time, but not for food. It's like part of me is missing-and I don't know if I can get it back. Then there's Bishop. At first I thought he was just a street kid, but the secrets he's keeping are as intense as his unearthly blue eyes. If he's what I think he is, he may be the only one who can help me. But something terrifying is closing in, and the one chance Bishop and I have to stop it means losing everything I ever wanted and embracing the darkness inside me.... NIGHTWATCHERS When angels and demons must work together, something beyond evil is rising..

My Thoughts: I’ve read other books by Rowen, adult books and liked them. So diving into Dark Kiss, I knew right away what her writing style was like. And I almost always enjoy it.

We are introduced to Samantha who lives with her mother. She is in high school and has a best friend named Carly.

Samantha and Carly go to a club and Samantha gets a forbidden kiss with a crush. One kiss that will change her life forever! She loses her soul and learns just how special she is. She becomes a grey. She starts to get special powers, she can zap, she can read minds, and she can see a light. Pretty crazy stuff right there.

She meets two boys next. They are Bishop who is an angel and Kraven who is a demon. The whole book I kept waiting for a love triangle to happen which didn’t happen for all of you who hate those. I have a feeling it may happen eventually though? Bishops mind is kind of fuzzy and he was sent here from heaven to team up with other members to get rid of Grey’s. The only problem, he can't remember much about his mission or what exactly he's supposed to be doing. The angels and demons have teamed up to save the city and they don’t really love working together, even though they have too; its a part of the mission.

Bishop and Kraven were the best parts of the book for me. Bishop, you can’t just help but not like him. And Kraven was dangerous, and irritating which made him a funny and annoying yet enjoyable character. Samantha was just alright to me. She didn’t really stand out, she was strong enough but at times, she just lacked something for me. The other characters throughout the novel had their perks.

I did enjoy the plot. I haven’t read many angel books yet. But this was seemed unique enough to keep me reading and actually enjoy it. And the secrets between Bishop and Kraven, they did throw me for a loop, but it was a nice touch to the story. So was Samantha's back story.

There is another book coming out in this series, so I will stay tuned and read that.

Overall: I did enjoy it a lot. I need to read more angel books so I have more to compare the few I read too. I really loved Kraven and Bishop and can’t wait to find out more about them. I think Rowen did a good job writing a YA book, and I still enjoy her adult books as well!

Cover: Like it, but it seems too plain. I do like the bluish tint. I also like how we can see the boy and his wings. I do like how he has his shirt open and looks like he could be sexy but also dangerous. It’s ok, but I want to see more characters!

What I'd Give It:

Breaking Beautiful by Jennifer Shaw Wolf

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Thu, 17 May 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Breaking Beautiful by Jennifer Shaw Wolf
Release Date: April 24, 2012
Publisher: Walker Children’s
Age Group: Young Adult
Pages: 368

Summary:Allie lost everything the night her boyfriend, Trip, died in a horrible car accident—including her memory of the event. As their small town mourns his death, Allie is afraid to remember because doing so means delving into what she’s kept hidden for so long: the horrible reality of their abusive relationship.

When the police reopen the investigation, it casts suspicion on Allie and her best friend, Blake, especially as their budding romance raises eyebrows around town. Allie knows she must tell the truth. Can she reach deep enough to remember that night so she can finally break free? Debut writer Jennifer Shaw Wolf takes readers on an emotional ride through the murky waters of love, shame, and, ultimately, forgiveness

My Thoughts: When I first saw this book, I knew it was one that I just had to read. And to read as soon as it was released!

Breaking Beautiful was a great novel, even though it had its sad moments.
We are introduced to Allie who has been dating Trip. They have been the perfect couple, at least on the outside. Trip is popular, everyone likes him, and his family is very influential. Allie is pretty average and hasn’t lived in their town her whole life. She also has a twin brother named Andrew. He has cerebral palsy.

Allie and Trip are the couple everyone wants to be. Because of his popularity, he always has people talking to him and wanting to hang out with him, which Allie thinks is great at first.

One dreadful night, Trip and Allie get into an accident and Trip is killed. Allie can’t remember much of anything, or at least so she says. All throughout the novel, we get flashbacks of the night of the accident. I was never really 100% sure what happened until the end of the novel.

Allie is in mourning and everyone expects her to stay that way. She has a friend who is a boy named Blake, and everyone gets the wrong idea about them. Nobody thinks she should be moving on, so when they get closer, everyone starts to really shun her more.
Allie and Blake’s relationship progress, but not without complications. Blake has a past of his own that he can’t live down.

Breaking Beautiful was an intense novel. I knew from the first few chapters in what was going on. I knew that Trip wasn’t such a great guy like everyone thought. The clues were there. Her blaming herself is a classical sign of abuse, and I just wanted to tell her it was ok and things would be ok.

I really liked all the characters. I could understand how Allie was handling everything and I liked her brother and how strong he really was. He was very supportive and caring. I also liked Blake and who he really was.

Overall: I really loved reading this one. Breaking Beautiful is a great contemporary novel, even though it isn’t all rainbows. It was a very emotional debut book. I was happy to read it because I wanted to know the whole story behind the accident and how everyone was involved.

I can't wait to see what Jennifer Shaw Wolf has up her sleeve for us next.

Cover: Its neat. I like the red high heals and how it shows the side of the road.

What I'd Give It:

Want To Find Amazing Books?

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Wed, 16 May 2012 20:58:00 +0000

How to Find Amazing New Books

There are millions of books out there. Whether hardback, paperback or even audio, deciding what book to read next can be a very daunting task. There is nothing worse than spending a few hours with a book only to realize that it is just not for you. Some people just get frustrated altogether and stop reading. However, do not lose hope. The following are the best ways to find amazing new books:

Online Reviews and Services – Many websites (and the people who run those websites) make a daily wage by helping you make the decision – for free. You can also find the same kind of service from many course descriptions for online college courses.

Recommendations From Others – For us readers, taking other people's word for it has always been discouraged (LeVar Burton, for the win!), but no longer. Reading reviews from both novice readers and professional readers is a great way to get a grasp on your potential like or dislike.

Libraries (and Librarians) – Librarians have to get a master's degree for a reason. They are there to help you find your next favorite book. Approach the librarian and tell them what books you like and have read in the past. A little half-sheet with Dewey decimals scrawled with a golf pencil is a treat indeed for any reader, so go for it!

Book Clubs – Can't decide which book to read, then join a book club. For better or worse, the decision will be made for you. The best part about having someone else make the decision for you is that if the book is terrible, you have a group of people who had the same dreary experience. Changing the book club location from coffee house to bar is a great idea when the topic of discussion will be, "Wow! That book sucked!"

Inspirations of Your Favorite Authors – This is a tip from a literature insider. Read your favorite author's biography online or search for interviews and find out where his or her inspiration came from. The reverse system is also effective. Find out who your favorite authors inspired. For example, if you are a fan of J.R.R. Tolkien, you will find out that Robert Jordan's awesome epic, multivolume fantasy series was inspired by Tolkien's work. Or, if you are a fan of James Joyce, the you will find that Samuel Beckett was hugely inspired by Joyce, so perhaps check out Beckett's works.

Staying Within Genre – So, you know you are a sci-fi fan. Staying with the sci-fi genre will give your potential reading enjoyment a leg up. For example, you like Orson Scott-Card's “Ender's Game” series. Perhaps you will like C.S. Lewis' book, “Out of This Silent Planet” – another well-known and popular sci-fi trilogy.

Take College Courses in Literature – College courses will introduce you to a variety of authors and genres. Check out www.onlineuniversities.net for more info on easy online courses on literature and fiction.

Tangled (Torn #2) by Erica O’Rourke

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Tue, 15 May 2012 23:32:00 +0000

Tangled (Torn #2) by Erica O’Rourke
Release Date: January 31, 2012
Publisher: Kensington
Age Group: Young Adult
Pages: 336

Summary: Constance started to keen as the air around us began to thrash and twist, the caustic scent of ozone burning my nose. As I watched, her dark gold hair began to lift and kink into knots.

“I’m here. It’ll be okay.” It was the last thing I said before my best friend’s little sister went supernova in the second-floor girls’ bathroom, taking me with her.

A month ago, Mo Fitzgerald risked her life to stop an ancient prophecy and avenge her best friend's murder. Now, she only wants to keep her loved ones safe. But the magic—and the Chicago Mob—have other plans.

Mysterious, green-eyed Luc is back, asking for help—and a second chance. Colin, her strongest protector, is hiding a shocking secret. And inside Constance, the magic is about to go terribly wrong. Tangled in a web of love and betrayal, Mo must choose between the life she's dreamed of and the one she's destined for.

My Thoughts: I remember first seeing Torn and I was hesitant to read it, but once I did I enjoyed it a lot so when I heard there was going to be another book in the series, I was very excited.

In Tangled, we are back with Mo and her crazy life. She’s still divided between Colin and Luc. She’s still battling her uncle's business and her “other” business. Mo has a lot on her hands. She had to stop an evil prophecy and learn just how to deal with real life in the process. Now she’s out to save her best friend’s sister Constance (remember her best friend died?) and she has to start thinking about where her future is going to go. Is she going to go against her uncle and choose Colin or if she going to finally give in and get with Luc, she is after all betrothed to him.

Gosh, this book was an emotional ride. From the troubles with her family, her own personal struggles every time she went in between, and just seeing how much she clearly cares about both boys, its a roller coaster ride.

The plot is filled with so many different things, things twisted and turned when you least expected it. She kisses both boys when you start to think she’s going to end up with the opposite one, and she helps Constance in the process. And the fire, it made me cry a few tears! Very emotional!

Tangled is a very different kind of novel. The first part of the book I started to wonder if it was going to get better, or if anything major was going to happen, but just like with Torn, it all hits you at once and you look at the clock and it's the middle of the night.

Mo is such a likable character. Even though she’s stubborn, I can see myself being best friends with her and helping her out through her daily life.

Overall:This series is different, but in a good way. The characters are easy to get attached too. The plot sucks you in. And by the end, you’ll be rooting for both boys wishing she could just have them both. This series is one you should check out now!

Cover: I’m not thrilled with the covers but they are ok. I think that was the biggest problem with Torn. I didn’t read it soon enough because the cover didn’t catch my eye right off the bat. But, they are such good books!

What I'd Give It:

The One That I Want by Jennifer Echols

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Mon, 14 May 2012 15:00:00 +0000

The One That I Want by Jennifer Echols
Release Date: February 7, 2012
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Age Group: Young Adult
Pages: 288

Summary: Gemma can’t believe her luck when the star football player starts flirting with her. Max is totally swoon-worthy, and even gets her quirky sense of humor. So when he asks out her so-called best friend Addison, Gemma’s heartbroken.

Then Addison pressures Gemma to join the date with one of Max’s friends. But the more time they all spend together, the harder Gemma falls for Max. She can’t help thinking that Max likes her back—it’s just too bad he’s already dating Addison. How can Gemma get the guy she wants without going after her best friend’s boyfriend?

My Thoughts: Best friends Addison and Gemma have been best friends for years, since they were kids. They do everything together, including crushing on the same guy. Gemma and Addison meet two boys from a rival school. Their names are Max and Carter. Addison likes Max right away and expects Gemma to go out with Carter. Of course Carter isn't the one Gemma has feelings for.

Addison is the snobby, thinks she is better friend. You know the one? The one who puts you down and doesn't even realize it. The one who takes you for granted. Gemma is the nicer one. She's lost a ton of weight previously and had quite low self esteem before that. She now feels a little bit better about herself but she is still struggling with her weight and wants to lose more.

Both girls start dating the boys and complications arise. It seems like Addison always has to compete with Gemma over everything. She walks all over her and treats her like crap in my opinion.

As Gemma spends more time with Max she falls deeply in love with him and doesn't know what to do. All the while, it seems like Max really does like Addison.

We get to experience their dates, their school lives, their sport lives, and family life. This novel had a lot of drama but also a lot of sweet moments.

Max with Addison? Gemma with Carter? Carter with Addison? Or Max with Gemma? How does this story end? Go read the book now!

I love Echols but this is not my favorite book by her. I did enjoy it a lot but I still think I have others as favorites more. I was so excited about this novel to come out and I'm so happy it did and I got the chance to read it. I just didn’t fall in love with this one like I have with others. It was a quick read and I didn’t savor each and every page like usual. But Echols still remains one of my favorite writers.

I won't say much else but if you're already a fan of Echols, don't forget to go pick up her latest release, The One That I Want.

Overall: Really did love this one, it was a quick read, and spunky. Not one of my absolute favorites by her but still an awesome novel. And Gemma was a great main character and I liked all of her other friends, and her personality in general.

Cover: I really like the cover but I just don't see either Max or Gemma looking like these characters. He doesn't look asian either. lol

What I'd Give It:

Spell Bound (Hex Hall #3) by Rachel Hawkins

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Sun, 13 May 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Spell Bound (Hex Hall #3) by Rachel Hawkins
Release Date: March 13, 2012
Publisher: Hyperion Book CH
Age Group: Young Adult
Pages: 336

Summary: Hailed as “impossible to put down,” the Hex Hall series has both critics and teens cheering. With a winning combination of romance, action, magic and humor, this third volume will leave readers enchanted.

Just as Sophie Mercer has come to accept her extraordinary magical powers as a demon, the Prodigium Council strips them away. Now Sophie is defenseless, alone, and at the mercy of her sworn enemies—the Brannicks, a family of warrior women who hunt down the Prodigium. Or at least that’s what Sophie thinks, until she makes a surprising discovery. The Brannicks know an epic war is coming, and they believe Sophie is the only one powerful enough to stop the world from ending. But without her magic, Sophie isn’t as confident.

Sophie’s bound for one hell of a ride—can she get her powers back before it’s too late?

My Thoughts: I still love this series as I did day one. We are back with Sophie Mercer and her friends. We also get to see more of her family in Spell Bound and learn more about her family history.

Lara is out to ruin all their lives and turn them all into demons to fight and destroy.

Sophie’s powers have been stripped away by the council and she’s left defenseless, well sort of. She has Elodie’s powers running through her at times. She has a chance to get her powers back but what is the cost?

I’m not going to go on and on about this book, because by now you know the characters and you wonder how it's going to end and I don’t want to spoil anything.

Let’s just keep it simple, I still adore Sophie and her friends Jenna, Cal, and Archer. I’m not surprised at who she ends up with at the end, but it’s also sad to an extent. Tears came to my eyes at the end.

I just want to remind everyone how I was hesitant to start this series the first time I read it, and I loved it dearly so please go read it now!

Overall: I’m sad to see one of my favorite series ending. I hope she writes another book but I haven’t heard anything yet. The Hex Hall series had great characters, a nice love triangle, and best friends. Magic, witches, vampires, demons, warlocks, fairies, this book has a little for everyone. Please read it and tell me what you thought.

Cover: Like it. All these covers have a little something special about them.

What I’d Give It:

The Princesses Of Iowa by M. Molly Backes

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Thu, 10 May 2012 15:00:00 +0000

The Princesses Of Iowa by M. Molly Backes
Release Date: May 8, 2012
Publisher: Candlewick
Age Group: Young Adult
Pages: 464

Summary: What does it mean to do wrong, when no one punishes you? A smart and unflinching look at friendship, the nature of entitlement, and growing up in the heartland.

Paige Sheridan has the perfect life. She's pretty, rich, and popular, and her spot on the homecoming court is practically guaranteed. But when a night of partying ends in an it-could-have-been-so-much worse crash , everything changes. Her best friends start ignoring her, her boyfriend grows cold and distant, and her once-adoring younger sister now views her with contempt. The only bright spot is
her creative writing class, led by a charismatic new teacher who encourages students to be true to themselves. But who is Paige, if not the homecoming princess everyone expects her to be? In this arresting and witty debut, a girl who was once high-school royalty must face a truth that money and status can't fix, and choose between living the privileged life of a princess, or owning up to her mistakes and giving up everything she once held dear.

My Thoughts: Well, this is my first debut read of 2012. Did it start out with a bang? Not quite.

We are introduced to Paige who had been exiled to Paris. She is now back from spending the summer babysitting a small baby and is back in her Iowa town. She gets to see her best friends Lacey and Niki. And of course her boyfriend Jake. She's ready for things to go back to normal and spend their senior year becoming princesses, and taking the school by storm.

Things are different now though. Lacey is spending a lot of time with Jake and ignoring Paige and Niki is stuck in the middle. And as for Jake, I did not like him one bit. There was just something about him that screamed, JERK!

Paige gets stuck in a creative writing class she doesn't really want to do. She would rather be in film with Jake and Lacey. That was the plan for her and Jake to take Creative Writing together because its an easy class but Jake transferred out because Lacey "needs" a friend.

In Creative Writing, Paige meets a few new friends. First, there is Shanti. Shanti is a pretty cool girl. She speaks her mind and doesn't take any bull crap from anyone. She doesn't let things get to her either. Than there is Ethan. Cute sweet hugable Ethan. Yep, I liked him from the get go. You could tell her and Paige really got each other, even though she did have a boyfriend and her and Ethan were just friends.

I really liked the fact that they were in Iowa. I spent most of my life in Iowa so I knew all the cities they were talking about. I knew Iowa City and all the other small towns! I knew when they talked about Iowa locations, traditions, etc.

I really wanted to be sucked into The Princesses Of Iowa, I wanted to fall in love with the story, I wanted to be crazy about this one. It just felt really long to me. About 200 pages in, I almost gave up. I felt like it was dragging a long very very slowly. It’s over 450 pages long. I was motivated to finish it though since it was my first debut of 2012 plus it was about Iowa. I left a lot of small details out of this review because I want you to find out for yourself. One example: Why did Paige go to Paris exactly? What is Lacey's problem?

Overall: I liked this novel, but didn't love it. It was just ok for me. Maybe you'll like it more than me. All in all, it just felt really long to me and I kept losing interest. It wasn't a bad book and I'm sure some will love it way more than I did. I know I just read too many books to love every single one.

Cover: Like the cover! I like the outside and how we can see the girl looking in the rear-view mirror. Very cool.

What I'd Give It:

Struck by Jennifer Bosworth

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Tue, 08 May 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Struck by Jennifer Bosworth
Release Date: May 8, 2012
Publisher: Farrar, Straus, And Giroux
Age Group: Young Adult
Pages: 384

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

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

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

My Thoughts: I'm going to go ahead and say it, if you hate books that have any sort of religion or religious beliefs, Struck is probably a book you will want to pass on. If different points of view on this topic bug you, you will probably really dislike this book.

As for me, it was very interesting to read this one. First off, there is the prophet, he is a big character in Struck, he directs a lot of people on believing the world will end by a massive storm. After the earthquake that happened, people believe him. They want something to believe in, they want to be saved, they want to know they have purpose and will be saved.

Than there is Mia Price and her family. Mia is basically a human lightning rod. She's been struck many times and can feel when a storm is coming. She has scars all over her body from being struck. Even her hands are scared, so she wears black gloves everyday.

Mia is strong willed. She wants to do the right thing, but being hit by lightning has forced her into some unfortunate situations. You know the drill, standing next to someone who gets hit by lightning doesn't do well for that person either. Mia has hurt other people, but not on purpose so that counts right?

Mia also has a brother and a mother she lives with. Her mother believes the prophet and devotes all of her time watching him on tv. He's basically brain washed her and we notice this from the start.

Than there are the followers and the seekers. Each group has their own agenda and what they plan to do. Both want to recruit Mia to join them. They both want to "use" her in their own way. She meets some interesting characters along the way including Katrina.

Next up, is the other main character. Jeremy. Oh man, I really liked Jeremy from the first minute I met him. Nightmare boy. He creeps into Mia's life in a hurry and tries to earn her trust. He can also see visions of the future. There was something about him from the beginning that I liked. He never scared me. I trusted him so quickly. Jeremy and Mia's relationship (or lack of one for most of the book) was pretty neat. They way they really connected.

Struck was a fantastic debut. If you haven't added this one to your reading list this year please do it! I know there are a lot of post apocalyptic novels coming out soon but this is one that you must read! I loved every minute of it!

Struck was fascinating, and had such an amazing concept. I haven't read any other books regarding lightning and this was so interesting!

Overall: Such fantastic characters, such an amazing plot, the writing was easy to follow along with and easy to connect with. Bosworth sure does know how to captivate our attention and keep it for hours on end.

Cover: Love it! It's so awesome! The way she is standing there just screams, this book is going to be awesome. The lightning in the background, everything! Love this cover! This will surely draw peoples attentions.

What I'd Give It:

Blood Magic by Tessa Gratton

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Sat, 05 May 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Blood Magic by Tessa Gratton
Release Date: May 24, 2011
Publisher: Random House Books For Young Readers
Age Group: Young Adult
Pages: 416

Summary: It starts off simply.

Draw a circle ... place a dead leaf in the center ... sprinkle some salt ... recite a little Latin ... add a drop of blood ...

Maybe that last part isn't exactly simple. Yet somehow it feels right to Silla Kennicott. And nothing in her life has felt remotely right since her parents' horrific deaths. She's willing to do anything to uncover the truth about her family—even try a few spells from the mysterious book that arrived on her doorstep ... and spill some blood.

The book isn't the only recent arrival in Silla's life. There's Nick Pardee, the new guy next door who may have seen Silla casting a spell. She's not sure what he saw and is afraid to find out. But as they spend more time together, Silla realizes this may not be Nick's first encounter with Blood Magic. Brought together by a combination of fate and chemistry, Silla and Nick can't deny their attraction. And they can't ignore the dark presence lurking nearby—waiting to reclaim the book and all its power.

Tessa Gratton's intoxicating first novel will keep pulses racing, minds reeling, and pages turning right up to the very last drop of blood.

My Thoughts: I wanted to love this book with all my heart. I had gotten a few recommendations from friends to read it, although it had already been in my sights.

I finally had the chance to read it and I was slightly surprised how long it took me to get through it. It was a thicker book, over 400 pages.

The first half of the book dragged a bit for me. By by the middle, I was getting more into it and am glad I gave the story a chance.

We are introduced to Silla who has a older brother and whose parents are dead. In was quite the tragedy, her father shot her mother then shot himself. Small town, a lot of talk.

Silla meets the new boy down the road. His name is Nicholas. He hates his stepmother and lives with her and his father. Silla finds an old book of her dad and starts diving into it. It's full of magic and spells. Silla doesn't understand any of it at first. Magic is real?

Silla realizes that she and Nick have more in common than what one would think. They began to explore the Blood Magic together. People get hurt, people die, she doesn't know who she can really trust.

I really enjoyed Blood Magic once it gone going. At first I thought this might end up being a 2 cupcake book but by the time I finished, I changed my mind. Definitely more like 3.5 cupcakes. While it wasn't my favorite book in the world, I did enjoy it.

Overall: I liked how brave Silla was even though she didn't always know it. I also liked her brother a lot. He made the story a bit more funny and gave it some character. Nick was just ok for me. I liked him enough but I didn't fall head over heals in love with him. I really want everyone to be ok and things to work out for Silla and her family. I want more answers.

Cover: Like it a lot. I love how the red stands out on the cover.

What I'd Give It:

The Summer Of No Regrets by Katherine Grace Bond

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Fri, 04 May 2012 15:00:00 +0000

The Summer Of No Regrets by Katherine Grace Bond
Release Date: May 1, 2012
Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire
Age Group: Young Adult
Pages: 304

Summary: The day Brigitta accidentally flings herself into the lap of a guy she's never met, her friend Natalie is convinced he's Trent Yves, egotistical heartthrob-in-hiding. When the boy, who calls himself Luke, is nearly eaten by a cougar, Brigitta finds herself saving his life, being swept into his spectacular embrace and wondering if she wants Natalie's fantasy to be true.

As the two spend the summer together raising orphaned cougar cubs, Brigitta still can't be sure of his true identity. But then again, since her grandparents' death, her father's sudden urge to give away all their possessions and become a shaman, and her own awkward transition from girlhood into a young woman, she isn't sure of anything. What is the truth? More importantly, can she accept it?

My Thoughts: When I first saw this book, I thought it looked pretty interesting. I figured I’d love it. I did like it, but not near as much as I hoped I would.

We are introduced to Brigitta who is just a girl that is trying to figure out life. She is homeschooled and has a hard time connecting with other people. It doesn’t help that her parents run “The Center” and she doesn’t interact with too many people her own age. She’s also embarrassed by her parents at times.

Brigitta also just got out of a relationship with a boy named Devon. Keep in mind that her family is somewhat religious and she hasn’t even kissed a boy. So, when she falls into the lap of Luke Geoffrey she’s embarrassed and just wants to run away screaming. Not only is he a hottie but he looks like teen heartthrob Trent Yves.

She soon finds out he’s her new neighbor and he lives with his mother. One day, while Brigitta is up in her tree house, she sees Luke down below, and she watches him for a while. All of a sudden, a cougar is standing near him and she leaps down and helps him make the cougar leave.

Brigitta soon finds the cougars two baby cubs. With Luke’s help, she takes care of them. Brigitta and Luke soon form a friendship/relationship. At times, she wonders if he’s really Trent or is he just plain old Luke who looks a lot like the actor?

I liked Brigitta and Luke’s relationship. I liked seeing her evolve around him and learn more about herself.

If you want to know more about the cougars, read this novel now. If you want to find out more about Luke, please go pick this book up as soon as possible. Could he really be a famous actor in her tiny little town?

Overall: The Summer Of No Regrets was just alright for me. I spent most of the book wondering is he Trent or is he just Luke? She also spent a lot of time reminiscing about her grandparents and after a while, I just wanted more of the actual story. Another important aspect is that there are a lot of religious tones in this novel so if that bugs you, you might not enjoy it as much as others will.

I liked The Summer Of No Regrets but I wish I could have enjoyed it more. It just wasn’t the perfect book for me. All in all, there are probably others who will enjoy it more than me.

This novel is probably more of a 3.5 cupcake rating for me.

Cover: I do love the cover. Love how they are standing near water and we can’t see their face expressions. I love how it appears dark but the water and sunset are such bright colors.

What I'd Give It:

The Pledge by Kimberly Derting

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Tue, 01 May 2012 15:00:00 +0000

The Pledge by Kimberly Derting
Release Date: November 15, 2011
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books
Age Group: Young Adult
Pages: 336

Summary: In the violent country of Ludania, the classes are strictly divided by the language they speak. The smallest transgression, like looking a member of a higher class in the eye while they are speaking their native tongue, results in immediate execution. Seventeen-year-old Charlaina has always been able to understand the languages of all classes, and she's spent her life trying to hide her secret. The only place she can really be free is the drug-fueled underground clubs where people go to shake off the oppressive rules of the world they live in. It's there that she meets a beautiful and mysterious boy named Max who speaks a language she's never heard before . . . and her secret is almost exposed.

Charlie is intensely attracted to Max, even though she can't be sure where his real loyalties lie. As the emergency drills give way to real crisis and the violence escalates, it becomes clear that Charlie is the key to something much bigger: her country's only chance for freedom from the terrible power of a deadly regime

My Thoughts: I love the Body Finder series so I knew once Derting wrote another book, I would be first in line to read it! I'll read anything she writes!

We are introduced to Charlie who can hear different languages. This is not normal where she lives and you're only supposed to talk/hear in your own language. There are many different kinds of people, and each language only goes with those people. It kind of reminds me if people believed only mexicans were allowed to speak spanish or caucasians were only allowed to speak english. She has a little sister named Angelina who is 4 years old. She has her own gifts. We are also introduced to her best friends and the two guys she meets along the way. Max and Xander. Oh Max, you were so mysterious and I loved finding out all your secrets. Xander, I also liked you.

Max worked for the military and has his own secrets and Xander works for the resistance, trying to change the world. These two awesome boys kept showing up all over the place, everywhere Charlie seemed to be.

There is also a queen who sets out to make everyone obey her every command.

I loved how Charlie could understand all the languages. I loved watching her hear what other people said and trying to act all secretive like she couldn't understand. I also liked all the side characters along the way.

I really liked the things we found out and the ending of course. I was satisfied with it!

I loved how Charlie was so protective of her sister and her parents. She was determined not to let anyone or anything hurt them. Same with her friends. She was a great person to have on your side.

I was so surprised about who Charlie was. I knew something was up, but I never suspected that about her and Max! She was a little special, huh?

The Pledge was a pretty good read. About halfway through, I almost gave up. It just seemed like nothing was happening and it just wasn't holding my attention but that soon stopped and I felt myself sucked in and read the whole book in just a few hours.

Overall: I really enjoyed this one once I got into it. I liked the plot, the funny and snarky comments, the friendship, the love she felt for her family. The boys were a plus too! At least give this one a try, even if you end up not liking it, or enjoying it like me!

Cover: Like it but it seems too ordinary for this novel.

What I'd Give It:

Eve by Anna Carey

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 20:00:00 +0000

Eve by Anna Carey
Release Date: October 4, 2011
Publisher: HarperCollins
Age Group: Young Adult
Pages: 336

Summary:The year is 2032, sixteen years after a deadly virus—and the vaccine intended to protect against it—wiped out most of the earth’s population. The night before eighteen-year-old Eve’s graduation from her all-girls school she discovers what really happens to new graduates, and the horrifying fate that awaits her.

Fleeing the only home she’s ever known, Eve sets off on a long, treacherous journey, searching for a place she can survive. Along the way she encounters Caleb, a rough, rebellious boy living in the wild. Separated from men her whole life, Eve has been taught to fear them, but Caleb slowly wins her trust...and her heart. He promises to protect her, but when soldiers begin hunting them, Eve must choose between true love and her life.

My Thoughts: I started this book and couldn't put it down until I was finished! Completely and utterly finished. No breaks, no stops, no doing anything until I was done.

It's the future and a lot of things are different. We are introduced to Eve who will be graduating from an all girls school. She's top notch and will give a speech at the ceremony. Her life seems pretty good. She will soon learn new things and Eve and her friends are anxious for their futures. She will learn different trades in the City of Sand after graduation.

Ever since The Plague, people are restless. Girls are sent to these schools and taught that men are dangerous. They are not to be trusted.

So, when Eve stumbles upon what really happens after graduation, she's horrified. The future looked so good, until she realized what she and the rest of the girls would be doing next. Does the population need increased? YES!

She sets out and escapes from the school into the wild. She needs to get to Califia which is a safe haven for people like her. She ends up meeting an unlikely ally along the way and they head out to a safe haven together.

Things don't go expected as they stumble upon a boy named Caleb. Eve is hesitant to trust him or even talk to him but when her life is put in his hands, she has no other choice. Eve describes him as a dirty boy, and stinky when she meets him! This reminded me of how people don't always have soap and have to make do with what they got. And be happy, just to have simple things.

She goes back to his homestead and we get to see her develop a relationship with him and all the other boys who live there.

Eve and Caleb had such a precious relationship. I don't know how else to describe it. It was gentle, and caring, and oh so charming.

Things don't turn out exactly how I had hoped, and now I want the next book!

When I started this novel, I wasn't sure about it. Honestly, I didn't read much about it, because I didn't want to know what was going to happen. I wanted this one to be one of those that I heard a lot about when it came out awhile ago, but it just sat on my bookshelf until I was ready to read it. I picked it up, and started reading it, forgetting what the plot was about. Am I glad I did? YES YES YES!

Overall: When does the next book come out again? haha, not soon enough! Eve was an imaginative book of what the future could be like. I love these kind of books, because we see different aspects of what the world could hold, and some of them are very scary to really think about it. I really loved Eve and I can't wait to read more by Carey.

Cover: It's pretty! The colors just go together and the way the girl is looking out is just amazing. She knows something more is out there, but she's not sure what is.

What I'd Give It:

Social Suicide (Deadly Cool #2) by Gemma Halliday

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 00:00:00 +0000

Social Suicide (Deadly Cool #2) by Gemma Halliday
Release Date: April 24, 2012
Publisher: HarperTeen
Age Group: Young Adult
Pages: 272

Summary: Twittercide [twit-er-sahyd]: the killing of one human being by another while the victim is in the act of tweeting.

Call me crazy, but I figured writing for the Herbert Hoover High Homepage would be a pretty sweet gig. Pad the resume for college applications, get a first look at the gossip column, spend some time ogling the paper's brooding bad-boy editor, Chase Erikson. But on my first big story, things went...a little south. What should have been a normal interview with Sydney Sanders turned into me discovering the Homecoming Queen-hopeful dead in her pool. Electrocuted while Tweeting. Now, in addition to developing a reputation as HHH's resident body finder, I'm stuck trying to prove that Sydney's death wasn't suicide.

I'm starting to long for the days when my biggest worry was whether the cafeteria was serving pizza sticks or Tuesday Tacos..

My Thoughts: HA, Twittercide? Loved it! Social Suicide was such a fun mystery novel! I loved it even more than Deadly Cool and I did really enjoy that one.

We are back with Hartley who works on the school newspaper. In this novel, a girl kills herself who was caught cheating. Of course, Hartley knows there is more to the story than her just committing suicide. Come on, she's too popular and had to much going for her to do it, Hartley suspects.

Hartley and her friends are back and on the case. There is her best friend Sam. Sam is such a fun girl. She knows how to primp Hartley right up for all of her dates and she's a fun best friend to have. She isn't the most serious person but she's a really great friend. Than there is Chase. Oh Chase, how you make me swoon. Chase is the person in charge of the newspaper so in a way he's Hartley's boss.

The chemistry between Chase and Hartley was even more intense in this novel than the first. I still adore him and he always makes me smile. The things he says are just so funny and sweet.

Social Suicide focuses on the murder and Hartley doing the best to find out why the girl was cheating and who killed her. Another great mystery by Halliday.

I can't stress how great this series is! If you haven't checked it out yet, please do so as soon as possible!

Overall: Oh gosh, I loved this one. I can't believe who the killer was. I did not see that coming at all. I also loved everything that happened. I loved how Hartley's mom got a boyfriend finally and I loved all the side characters and their roles throughout the novel. All in all, I really loved this one.

Cover: Love it! I really enjoyed the first cover with the headphones but I also like this one, she looks so pretty and the words on the front are the perfect font.

What I'd Give It:

7 Clues to Winning You by Kristin Walker

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Sat, 28 Apr 2012 18:00:00 +0000

7 Clues To Winning You by Kristin Walker
Release Date: April 26, 2012
Publisher: Razorbill
Age Group: Young Adult
Pages: 240

Summary: When a humiliating picture of Blythe goes viral, she's instantly the target of ridicule at her new school. To salvage her reputation, Blythe teams up with Luke to win the Senior Scramble scavenger hunt. But Luke is an unlikely ally and potentially can't be trusted.
Perhaps it's his Shakespearean witticisms that reel Blythe in despite her better judgment . . . or maybe she just craves the thrill of the game. But as the hunt progresses, their relationship heats up. Soon their madcap mischief spirals out of control. Blythe is faced with arrest and expulsion, among other catastrophes - until Luke shows her what the Scramble (and love) is really about.

My Thoughts: These kinds of books are why I love contemporary YA books! Love love love them and 7 Clues To Winning You was no exception!

From page one, I was so excited to be thrust into Blythe's world and her ever changing life. Blythe has to move from a preppy school to a not so preppy school. She also goes from popular to the principles kid. And to get a new house? Yuck. And what's worst than that? Her picture got tossed around a lot last year. An embarrassing picture of her picking her nose.

Blythe starts at the new school with everyone making fun of her. But things soon get worse when she gets their yearly activity cancelled, and everyone really starts to hate her.

What does she do? She takes it underground and starts a new hunt. With fellow cute boy Luke, Blythe and Luke get the scavenger hunt going again!

And Blythe is determined to participate in it and win! We get to experience the clues with her, while she solves them. We also get to experience the nursing home she volunteers at, those 2 old ladies are a riot! Loved them! I also really liked her new friends Cy and Jenna! They were an awesome couple and a nice dynamic to the story.

And Blythe and Lucas' friendship is so cute! I adored it! He was such a cute funny adorable boy! As Blythe started to fall for him, so did I.

Blythe doesn't know how to go from the popular girl to just a plain girl, from name brand clothes to ordinary, from a somebody to a nobody.

Lucas and Blythe if I had to sum up in 2 words: freaking cute!

Overall: 7 Clues to Winning You is a definite winner for any contemporary fan! I loved it! This is exactly the kind of YA I need more of in my life. I want more of these kind of stories. Funny light yet deep and thought provoking. I hope you'll all give this book a try! I also loved A Match Made in High School, Walker’s debut! Go right out and buy each of them now!!!

Cover: Love it! It's so darn cute! Love the blue and purple colors!

What I'd Give It:

The Vicious Deep Winner

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 16:14:00 +0000

The Winner Of The Vicious Deep is:

Valia

I will be emailing you!

Monument 14 Trailer Reveal And Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 16:11:00 +0000

I read Monument 14, and really enjoyed it! I can't wait to read the next book!!!

Author site: http://emmylaybourne.com/

Song artist site: http://www.avaanderson.com/

Fierce Reads: https://www.facebook.com/FierceReads

Giveaway:

Want To Read This Book???

Leave a comment to win a copy with a way to contact you!!!!

Want Fated Earrings???

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 16:08:00 +0000

Do you want Fated (by Alyson Noel) Earrings to make your ears pretty?

All you have to do is pre-order a copy of Fated and send your receipt in and you get a pair!

Here is the way to get them!! HERE

These earrings look awesome!!!!

The Selection by Kiera Cass

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 15:00:00 +0000

The Selection by Kiera Cass
Release Date: April 24, 2012
Publisher: HarperTeen
Age Group: Young Adult
Pages: 352

Summary: For thirty-five girls, the Selection is the chance of a lifetime. The opportunity to escape the life laid out for them since birth. To be swept up in a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels. To live in the palace and compete for the heart of the gorgeous Prince Maxon.

But for America Singer, being Selected is a nightmare. It means turning her back on her secret love with Aspen, who is a caste below her. Leaving her home to enter a fierce competition for a crown she doesn't want. Living in a palace that is constantly threatened by violent rebel attacks.

Then America meets Prince Maxon. Gradually, she starts to question all the plans she's made for herself- and realizes that the life she's always dreamed of may not compare to a future she never imagined

My Thoughts: I will not try to include too many spoilers in this review. If you want to know NOTHING about this novel, please stop reading now!!!! And come back to my review after you read the novel and see if you agree or disagree with me! I warn you, stop reading! I may or may not gush consistently in this review!

Every once in a while, you come across a book cover, that you swoon over. It's so beautiful and you hope that the cover is a pure indicator of how good the novel will be. Once you start the novel, sometimes your disappointed, and sometimes your so thrilled that its so perfect. It's exactly how you imagined the story would be.

The Selection is that kind of novel. From the moment I saw the cover, I adored it.

As I opened the novel to page one, I felt myself sucked into this magical world of America's life. Yes, her name is really America Singer. It fits perfectly. America has red hair, a wonderful singing voice, and a big family. She's generous, sincere, and an amazing person.

But what does having a big family mean when your not exactly coming in with the money? Less food and more mouths to feed.

The Selection starts off by introducing us into America's way of life. The society is classified into numbers. A Caste. Basically each person has a different number. You could either be really rich, in the middle, or poor. In America's family, there is always someone still hungry and no second helpings.

America's family isn't exactly rich so when The Selection sends her a letter, her family is persistent that she sign up. If she won this, her family would be better off. They could actually provide and eat comfortably. They are thrilled.

What is The Selection you ask? Let me sum it up in short. It's basically a contest that girls enter to become the wife of Prince Maxon. Thousands (maybe even millions of girls) enter and its slowly cut back until there is just one left. A girl to become his wife.

Let me talk about the guys for a minute here. America's heart already belongs to someone. His name is Aspen and he's a caste below her. She doesn't care though, she wants to be with him. She knows if she marries him, she'll go to his caste level. He wants good things for her so when she gets the chance to be a part of the Selection, he tells her to do it. He wants her to be happy. He breaks up with her so she can have a chance to marry Maxon. Even if it is a small chance. His twin sisters also enter!

Than there is Maxon. Oh, sweet Maxon I thought I would hate you. There for a while I wanted too. I wanted America to end up with Aspen. But once I got to know you, that all changed. I felt myself drawn to you and secretly rooting for you to steal America's heart.

Maxon and America's relationship isn't what you'd think it would be. They are just "buddies." The way they meet at first was pretty awesome.

As the competition gets fiercer, the girls are all trying to steal Maxon's heart while America is just trying not to think about Aspen.

When a mysterious person shows up during the selection, America is even more confused. With her new friends, her maids helping her out, America is just trying to get through each and every day. She doesn't really care about the selection, but being there each week provides more money for her family.

I read The Selection in one sitting. I stayed up until 3 in the morning reading. I never got tired once. I was so addicted to this novel. Some will compare this to The Bachelor and if you don't like The Bachelor, this novel will bore you. Well, I for one, have never once watched The Bachelor but I adored this novel.

Honestly, I loved this novel. It was everything I wanted it to be. It was beautiful, it was thrilling! Yes, at times it did feel a tad bit slow but you have to sit back and appreciate the beauty. You have to just let it guide you and not be worried about not much happening at times.

I'll stop there about the plot. Just read the book to find out what happens. Am I Team Aspen or Team Maxon? Ohhhhh, this is so hard to decide! I'll wait until the next book to decide.

I also have to add that when I finished the book, I threw it on the floor, said in my most whiny voice to my boyfriend, I am done reading first novels! I hate that they end on a cliffhanger, I hate this! I boycott reading from now on! He just laughed and gave me a funny look. Yeah right! As if I could stop reading!

Overall: Kiera Cass, you have made me fall in love with the characters in this book! You created this wonderful world, this wonderful setting, and these two wonderful guys! I want the next book now! How am I going to wait to get it? I need it right this very second or else I'm going to cry! And I don't care if you haven't written or finished it yet! LOL

Cover: Love it!!! The girls in dresses, the colors of their dresses, its perfect! PERFECT! Even the way her hand is on top of her head! It just fits! America looks like who I would picture in my head! One of the best and most pretty covers of 2012 I'm sure of!

What I'd Give It:

Thumped (Bumped #2) by Megan McCafferty

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Thumped by Megan McCafferty
Release Date: April 24, 2012
Publisher: Balzer And Bray
Age Group: Young Adult
Pages: 304

Summary: THE CONCLUSION TO ONE OF THE MOST TALKED-ABOUT NOVELS OF LAST YEAR

It’s been thirty-five weeks since twin sisters Harmony and Melody went their separate ways. And now their story has become irresistible: twins separated at birth, each due to deliver twins…on the same day!

Married to Ram and living in Goodside, Harmony spends her time trying to fit back into the community she once believed in. But she can’t forget about Jondoe, the guy she fell for under the strangest of circumstances.

To her adoring fans, Melody has achieved everything: a major contract and a coupling with the hottest bump prospect around. But this image is costing her the one guy she really wants.

The girls’ every move is analyzed by millions of fans eagerly counting down to “Double Double Due Date.” They’re two of the most powerful teen girls on the planet, and they could do only one thing to make them even more famous:

Tell the truth.

My Thoughts: Oh my gosh, I liked Thumped much more than Bumped! Bumped started off a rocky start with this series for me but Thumped redeemed it in my eyes.

Maybe I was more used to the lingo, or the characters. I'm not sure but I did enjoy it a lot more. and these are such fast reads.

We are back with twin sisters Melody and Harmony and their misfit of boys, including Ram, Jondoe, and Zen. Still love Zen the most. We also switch back and forth between Harmony and Melody again. In this novel, I had no trouble telling the girls apart and I knew what thoughts were whose, unlike the first book.

It's 35 weeks after Bumped and both girls are sporting a baby bump. They are each pregnant with twins, everyone knows. This is the biggest thing ever, the glorious twins who are having twins. Everyone knows them, everyone wants to be them.

Melody is still struggling with wanting to be with Zen and Harmony is still struggling with her faith. Melody is having Jondoe's babies and Harmony is married to Ram and having his twins. Melody has her own dilemmas with the Jadens, and the mission with Zen.

What can I possibly say about this book? It is still WEIRD. But Thumped was a good weird. I liked exploring the story more and learning more about the girls. I also liked seeing the guys throughout the story and how they reacted to different situations.

Let’s remember, the time period is in the future and things are different. The world is different. People have babies because they have too, population would seize to exist. Condoms are illegal, and people aren't supposed to have sex for fun.

I'm not sure where McCafferty came up with this idea, but when I think of the plot of this book, the saying pops into my mind, "Babies having Babies." This story can be summed up with what exactly is happening around the world right now.

Thumped is different, but in a weird laugh out loud kind of way. It's a series to at least read, even if you end up hating it.

Overall: Thumped was an intense ride, with things constantly up in the air. Feelings and events aren't always what they seem and it could turn out any possible way. Even though, some things were predictable, I still liked it a lot more than Bumped.

Cover: I like this one much more than BUmped. I love how the egg is split open, representing the childbirth aspect of this novel . Also love the blueish background.

What I'd Give It:

Supergirl Mixtapes by Meagan Brothers

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 15:00:00 +0000

Supergirl Mixtapes by Meagan Brothers
Release Date: April 24, 2012
Publisher: Henry Holt And Co
Age Group: Young Adult
Pages: 256

Summary: After years of boredom in her rural South Carolina town, Maria is thrilled when her father finally allows her to visit her estranged artist mother in New York City. She’s ready for adventure, and she soon finds herself immersed in a world of rock music and busy streets, where new people and ideas lie around every concrete corner. This is the freedom she’s always longed for—and she pushes for as much as she can get, skipping school to roam the streets, visit fancy museums, and flirt with the cute clerk at a downtown record store.

But just like her beloved New York City, Maria’s life has a darker side. Behind her mother’s carefree existence are shadowy secrets, and Maria must decide just where—and with whom—her loyalty lies.

My Thoughts: Honestly, I wanted to love Supergirl Mixtapes. The cover alone suggests it would be unique. The plot sounds like it would be awesome. And its sprinkled with music, big win.

We are introduced to Maria who lives with her father in a small southern town. Her mother has never really been around. Until now. She goes off to New York to live with her mother for a while.

While in New York, Maria is trying to navigate the streets while trying to figure out where exactly she belongs. Back in her hometown, everything was going downhill and she felt like she was losing everything. But in New York, she doesn't fit in at school or in her mother's world.

She’s staying with her mother and her mother's young boyfriend. Her mother introduces Maria to a bunch of new music which Maria loves. Maria’s personality is based a lot on music and its just who she is. Music represents her. She understands it and loves it.

Maria also meets a boy who she takes an interest in. I never really felt connected to him. I really wanted her to end up with someone a little bit better and with more of a personality.

Supergirl Mixtapes did have a lot of music references which were awesome, it also had a bit of romance, and a lot of family drama.

Overall: Honestly, I did enjoy Supergirl Mixtapes a bit. I enjoyed the last part of the book more than the beginning. As I read, the middle is when I really became intrigued and I had to keep reading. This one didn’t make my favorites of the year but it was an alright read.

Cover: Pretty cool cover, right? I love the cassette tape, it takes me back to the 90’s before CD’s were so popular.

What I’d Give It:

Embrace by Jessica Shirvington

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Sat, 21 Apr 2012 21:00:00 +0000

Embrace by Jessica Shirvington
Release Date: March 6, 2012
Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire
Age Group: Young Adult
Pages: 400

Summary: It starts with a whisper: “It’s time for you to know who you are…”

Violet Eden dreads her seventeenth birthday. After all, it’s hard to get too excited about the day that marks the anniversary of your mother’s death. As if that wasn’t enough, disturbing dreams haunt her sleep and leave her with very real injuries. There’s a dark tattoo weaving its way up her arms that wasn’t there before.

Violet is determined to get some answers, but nothing could have prepared her for the truth. The guy she thought she could fall in love with has been keeping his identity a secret: he’s only half-human—oh, and same goes for her.

A centuries-old battle between fallen angels and the protectors of humanity has chosen its new warrior. It’s a fight Violet doesn’t want, but she lives her life by two rules: don’t run and don’t quit. When angels seek vengeance and humans are the warriors, you could do a lot worse than betting on Violet Eden…

My Thoughts: How shall I start this review? When I first started this novel, I peaked at the reviews on goodreads and it actually had some negative reviews so I wondered if I would enjoy it or not. I actually did, maybe I was in the mood or maybe I don't read enough angel books to compare it to much else.

We are introduced to Violet who has a normal life living with her dad, visiting with her best friend Steph and her friend Lincoln. She and Lincoln have been friends for a while now and they train together. They do climbing, running, and fighting. She meets up with him everyday. He's a few years older than her.

One day Violet finds out that she is an Grigori aka angel and that Lincoln is also an angel and he's been watching over her training her to become his partner. She feels betrayed because she has fallen in love this this boy and he's not who she thought he was. Another thing is, two Grigori partners can never be together so their relationship is doomed from the get go.

She learns she has to embrace in order to fully develop her powers and become an actual angel. She also meets another angel named Phoenix, who she believes to be an exile. She starts to get to know him and develop feelings for him. Of course, he's not who she thought he was either. Complicated much?

While all this is happening, other exiles are out to kill other angels including herself. Basically, not all angels are good and some are fallen and want to kill others.

I felt like there wasn't a whole lot of plot happening really but I liked the love triangle aspect. By the end of the novel, I didn't know who I wanted her to be with.

I actually liked Embrace a lot but it felt like a lot happened but at the same time it felt like a lot didn't, if that makes sense? Embrace had a lot of details and that is probably what made the book feel long.

I really did enjoy Embrace and I'm excited for the next in the series.

Phoenix: bad boy who can't do any wrong; swoon. Lincoln= good boy who makes me want to giggle.

Overall: Like I said above, I was really weary of reading this, because a few of my friends have rated it so badly but I actually really enjoyed it. I haven't read many other angel books so didn't have much to compare it too but I actually liked the characters. I like both Lincoln and Phoenix and of course Violet.

Cover: Love the cover! Love the purple and her dress and her long ponytail.

What I'd Give It:

Introducing Bethany Griffin

noreply@blogger.com (Cindy) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 16:00:00 +0000

Today On Princess Bookie, we have a special guest! Hello Bethany!

When Did I Become an Author and How did that Change my Life?

As an author I feel it is my prerogative to randomly capitalize the title of this blog post…otherwise, I don’t know. I tend to call myself a writer more often than author. Maybe I prefer the term because I’ve been a writer longer than I’ve been an author… maybe I’m a little bit humble. Maybe it’s because I spend a good part of my day teaching writing and creative writing rather than creative authorship. I don’t really know.

I’ve always been a writer. As a kid, my mom would write my stories down before I could actually manipulate the pencil. In elementary school I entered the local “Young Author’s Contest” every year. I never won, never even got honorable mention, but I had a lot of fun sewing the books together, though not so much fun trying to cover the cover with contact paper (that stuff is really sticky).

In high school I had great teachers and encouragement, and I wrote some truly awful stuff. I’m not saying it was because of the great teachers or their encouragement, rather in conjunction with great teachers and encouragement, I wrote some truly abysmal stuff. I continued this trend well into college, at which point I decided to be an English teacher, a career that sucked out all of my creative energy for the next half-decade. So, I was teaching other people to write but not doing much of it myself. I like to consider that a hiatus.

Anyway, long story short, a few years back I started seriously writing again, and was teaching high school and loving YA literature, and that’s really the only thing I can see myself writing.

How has being an author changed my life? Well, I’ve missed some awesome parties while doing revisions, missed out on a lot of sleep, and…met some wonderful people, the online writing community is pretty fabulous, and I’ve made online friends who I get to see at writing conferences 2-3 times a year.

I haven’t quit teaching and don’t plan to, but my husband was able to switch from a soul-numbing management job to working 30 hours in the library of the high school where I teach, so that’s been wonderful, and it will be much easier to do book signings and with him home more. I’ll be travelling this summer, which is an awesome perk of being an author.

Holding my book in my hands is the most awesome feeling in the world. I got to be on the local news once, I was upstaged by Santa Clause, and I’ve never watched the video because I hate seeing and hearing myself on video, but as an experience, it was pretty cool! I have a certain credibility with my students, and it’s just really gratifying to have created something that other people have enjoyed.

At this point, Masque isn’t out to the general public, but it will be very soon, and at that point, maybe my life will change more, but at the end of the day, I’ll still be doing the dishes, reading to my kids, and, occasionally, checking my reviews on Goodreads!