Waiting on Wednesday–Enshadowed by Kelly Creagh

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:


Title – Enshadowed
Author – Kelly Creagh
Expected Publication - January 17, 2012

Synopsis:

While Varen remains a prisoner in the dream-world, Isobel is haunted by his memory. He appears to her in her dreams and soon, even in her waking life. But is she just imagining it? Isobel knows she must find a way back to Varen. She makes plans to go to Baltimore. There, she confronts the figure known throughout the world as the Poe Toaster—the same dark man who once appeared to Isobel in her dreams, calling himself “Reynolds.” 
 
Isobel succeeds in interrupting the Toaster’s ritual and, in doing so, discovers a way to return to the dream-world. Soon, she finds herself swept up in a realm which not only holds remnants of Poe’s presence, but has also now taken on the characteristics of Varen’s innermost self. It is a dark world comprised of fear, terror, and anger. 
 
When Isobel once more encounters Varen, she finds him changed. With his mind poisoned by the dream world, he becomes a malevolent force, bent on destroying all—even himself. Now Isobel must face a new adversary, one who also happens to be her greatest love.

 
So, I don’t know if anyone read Nevermore by Kelly Creagh, but it was WONDERFUL! Enshadowed is the second of three books, I believe, and I cannot wait to read it! Varen is one of  my all time favorite paranormal characters. I will post a review of Nevermore sometime soon, but until then check the synopsis out HERE.

The Haunted by Jessica Verday

Title: The Haunted
Series: The Hollow Series #2
Author: Jessica Verday
Publisher: Simon and Schuster Children’s
Copyright © 2010 by Jessica Miller
Jessica Verday’s Website
Jessica’s Blog
Jessica’s Facebook
Jessica’s Twitter
The Haunted at Goodreads

Synopsis:

An impossible truth. An impossible love.

After a summer spent reclaiming her sanity and trying to forget the boy she fell in love with—the boy who must not exist, cannot exist, because she knows that he is dead—Abbey returns to Sleepy Hollow, ready to leave the ghosts of her past behind. She throws herself into her schoolwork, her perfume-making, and her friendship with Ben, her cute and funny lab partner, who just might be her ticket to getting over Caspian once and for all.

But Abbey can never get over Caspian, and Caspian has no choice but to return to her side, for Caspian is a Shade, and Abbey is his destiny. They are tied not only to each other, but also to the town of Sleepy Hollow, and to the famous legend that binds their fates—a legend whose dark truths they are only beginning to guess....

The sequel to The Hollow, The Haunted takes place a few months after we leave The Hollow. Abbey had just found out Caspien is a ghost and has went to live with her Aunt Marjorie for the summer. Just as she feels like she is making her way in the world, it’s time to return to Sleepy Hollow. Abbey and her friends begin another journey and it’s their Senior year! Will things work out?

• Abbey – found out that Caspien is a shade or ghost. She has had a difficult time dealing with this reality and now, there may be more secrets tucked away.
• Caspien – the ever-loving friendly ghost that haunts Sleepy Hollow, or more specifically, Abbey. He broke her heart in The Hollow, can he fix it now?
• Ben – is one of the only friends Abbey still has. He kindly volunteers to help her make-up her science grade so she can still graduate on time, plus she is throwing in Funyuns on the side. They become closer than ever. Can they ever be more than friends or will Caspien and the memories of Kristen get in the way?
• Aunt Marjorie – is Abbey’s supportive aunt who is filled with wisdom Abbey would be smart to heed.
• Cacey – is new to Sleepy Hollow and has an addiction to Coke (Coca-Cola). She is knows things about Sleepy Hollow that an outsider should not know.
• Uri – is Cacey’s partner in crime.
• Kame and Sophie are two other newbies in the town of Sleepy Hollow. They have a purpose to serve, but who knows what it is?
• Aubra Stanton – is a young woman that Uncle Bob hired to work at the ice cream shop. Abbey knows her from school, she is a cheerleader who soon finds herself in a giant scoop of trouble.
• Beth – is a girl from school who is attempting to be friends with Abbey. She is sweet and well-meaning.
• Vincent Drake – is like the worst being ever. I despise this guy! I can usually persuade myself to like a villain at least a tiny bit, but nope, not even a droplet of hope for him. He makes the ebie-gebies sound like a warm cup of hot chocolate on the coldest day in Antarctica. LOL!

So, I loved this book even more than I loved The Hollow. Jessica still provided the same mystery and romance but upped the action. Wow! The things that happened in this book amazed me and even scared me a little. I wasn’t sure who I should trust sometimes.


One of the things I love about this series is, even though there is a love triangle (of sorts), it isn’t like the ones that are typically written. There’s no fighting, no jealousy, just people trying to get by the only way they know how.


Abbey has so many irons in the fire in this installment. She is dealing with her mom’s drinking, figuring out her feelings for Ben…and Caspien, convincing her parents to support her dream of owning her own perfume shop, and last, but not least, accepting her destiny. Some of Abbey’s questions get answered, but many remain unknown – and there are even more questions brought to life.


Sometimes I think Abbey is strong and then she falls a little bit; however, she is only human. Her acceptance of all that is bizarre in her world is amazing. She does it with such finesse. And just as she is accepting everything, these really odd individuals start showing up…Revenants.


When Jessica writes a book, she knows how to put a few surprises in the mix. I love this series and would recommend it to anyone.

My reviews for The Hollow Series:
      The Hollow (#1)
      The Haunted (#2)
      The Hidden (#3)

The Hollow by Jessica Verday

Title: The Hollow
Author: Jessica Verday
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Copyright © 2009 by Jessica Miller
Jessica Verday’s Website
Jessica’s Blog
Jessica’s Facebook
Jessica’s Twitter
The Hollow at Goodreads

Synopsis:

When Abbey's best friend, Kristen, vanishes at the bridge near Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, everyone else is all too quick to accept that Kristen is dead?and rumors fly that her death was no accident. Abbey goes through the motions of mourning her best friend, but privately, she refuses to believe that Kristen is really gone. Then she meets Caspian, the gorgeous and mysterious boy who shows up out of nowhere at Kristen's funeral, and keeps reappearing in Abbey's life. Caspian clearly has secrets of his own, but he's the only person who makes Abbey feel normal again...but also special.

Just when Abbey starts to feel that she might survive all this, she learns a secret that makes her question everything she thought she knew about her best friend. How could Kristen have kept silent about so much? And could this secret have led to her death? As Abbey struggles to understand Kristen's betrayal, she uncovers a frightening truth that nearly unravels her—one that will challenge her emerging love for Caspian, as well as her own sanity.

It’s been a while since I read The Hollow; but, I loved it so much that I wanted to review it before I did The Haunted and The Hidden. This group of books is based around The Legend of Sleepy Hollow; which I have never really cared for, however, The Hollow Series brought Sleepy Hollow to life for me.

• Abbey – and her friend Kristen grew up in Sleepy Hollow surrounded by Washington Irving’s lore. They are fascinated with the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery where Washington Irving is buried and they manage to spend a lot of time there. Abbey finds solace in visiting his grave and telling Mr. Washington her problems.
• Kristen – is Abbey’s best friend and confidant. They shared everything. When Kristen dies un-expectantly and rumors of suicide and drug use surround her death. However, Abbey believes that she may have been murdered. Then Abbey learns that Kristen has been keeping a very big secret, one that may have ended her life. Abbey believed she knew everything there was to know about Kristen, but there are skeleton’s lurking in the closet.
• Ben – is a friend of Kristen’s from school. He and Abbey will bond over her death and find comfort in one another. Ben is smart, funny, and caring. He gives Abbey room to grieve while remaining a constant in her life.
• Caspien – is a mysterious boy that Abbey meets at Kristen’s funeral. There is something truly unusual about Caspien. When the truth is revealed, it may send Abbey for a nose dive.
• Nikolas – is a “caretaker” at the Sleepy Hollow Cemetery. He and his wife, Katy, may be the only people who can answer Abbey’s questions about Kristen’s death and the mystery that surrounds Caspien.

Abbey is having a heck of a Junior year, her best friend dies, she meets a mysterious boy, she learns her best friend was keeping an important secret from her, instead of making perfume she is working at her uncle’s ice cream shop, and she has a feeling that things are certainly amiss in Sleepy Hollow. The secrets she learns may very well send her over the edge.

I loved the mystery in this book. At times it was like a scary ghost story and at others, a deeply romantic love story. Jessica created a world full of lore and emotions that will keep you reading until the very last page. I was drawn into the story from the very beginning, feeding on Abbey’s emotions and possibly her delusions. Each page held a new question, a new mystery, a new revelation.

A definite must read! So go, go read it now…there are still two more books in the series.

 My reviews for The Hollow Series:
      The Hollow (#1)
      The Haunted (#2)
      The Hidden (#3)

Arc Review: The Juliet Spell by Douglas Rees

Title: The Juliet Spell
Author: Douglas Rees
Publisher: HarlequinTeen
Copyright © 2011 by Douglas Rees
Uncorrected E-Proof from Netgalley
The Juliet Spell on Goodreads

Synopsis:

I’m Juliet.

At least, I wanted to be.

So I did something stupid to make it happen.


Well, stupid and wonderful.

I wanted the role of Juliet more than anything. I studied hard. I gave a great reading for it—even with Bobby checking me out the whole time. I deserved the part.

I didn’t get it. So I decided to level the playing field, though I actually might have leveled the whole play. You see, since there aren’t any Success in Getting to Be Juliet in Your High School Play spells, I thought I’d cast the next best—a Fame spell. Good idea, right?

Yeah. Instead of bringing me a little fame, it brought me someone a little famous. Shakespeare. Well, Edmund Shakespeare. William’s younger brother.

Good thing he’s sweet and enthusiastic about helping me with the play...and—ahem—maybe a little bit hot. But he’s from the past. Way past. Cars amaze him—cars! And cell phones? Ugh.

Still, there’s something about him that’s making my eyes go star-crossed....


Will Romeo steal her heart before time steals him away?

The Juliet Spell had an intriguing storyline that I eventually grew to like. I’ll be honest, I did not find much GREAT about this book, OK...maybe, but not great. 

• Miranda – is a girl who wanted to play Juliet so bad that she somehow concocted a spell that brought Edmund Shakespear into the 21st Century.
• Edmund Shakeshaft (Shakespear) – is William Shakespear’s brother who lands in the middle of modern time and has quite a shock.
• Drew – is part of the Romeo and Juliet cast. He is also talented in other areas of academics.
• Bobby – is best friend to Drew and a premier Actor who can be a pain in the butt one minute then kind and loving the next minute.
• William Shakespear – Do I really need to explain who he is?

Ok, so the story line was intriguing and it held my interest. I wanted to know how the story ended and what would become of the characters. Loving Romeo and Juliet, as I do, I knew there would be a tragedy involved, as all Shakespearian literature does. I just couldn’t figure out exactly what that tragedy would be…exactly. I had my ideas, but sometimes you just never know.

While I liked the book, there was so much I would have changed. I completely understand that a writer shouldn’t have to write a backstory for their characters; but, you have to give me enough understanding to make them believable. I had a really hard time believing that Miranda just came up with a spell to bring Edmund to current times, even if that wasn’t her intent. Then Drew just happens to be a quantum physicist, with no explanation? Hmmm….

I never even got a feel for the romance between Miranda and Edmund, besides her jealousy. There was no real feelings or emotions involved.

I know this is a negative review and I do apologize about that, but I really feel like the story was missing so much, but don’t take my opinion on this book. Please check out reviews from other colleagues who have loved it. Here are the links to a couple...

The Cozy Reading Corner

My Guilty Obsession


*This is an Advanced Reader Copy Review. It is an Uncorrected E-Proof meaning changes can still be made to The Juliet Spell at this time. I want to thank NetGalley and HarlequinTeen for allowing me to review this surprisingly intriguing book. Anything quoted or alluded to is subject to change. All opinions are 100% mine. I do not work for any entity that may cause bias nor am I compensated for my reviews in any other way than by my followers who read and comment on my them!

Hunt for the Title of Sweet Venom 2 by Tera Lynn Childs

So, you all know who Tera Lynn Childs is, right? She is the fabulous author of Forgive My Fins, Fins are Forever, and Sweet Venom…well, the sequel to Sweet Venom now has a title, but in order to find out what the title is you must complete pieces of a puzzle…since you made it here, I will give you a hint…

E

So find all the answers and enter for these wonderful prizes HERE:

• 5 signed copies of Sweet Venom
• $50 bookstore gift card

Oh, and the great thing…the contest is open internationally!!!!

Bloodlines by Richelle Mead

Title: Bloodlines
Author: Richelle Mead
Publisher: Penquin Group
Copyright 2011 by Richelle Mead
Richelle Mead’s Website
Richelle’s Facebook
Richelle’s Twitter
Bloodlines Goodread

Synopsis:

The first book in Richelle Mead's brand-new teen fiction series - set in the same world as Vampire Academy.

When alchemist Sydney is ordered into hiding to protect the life of Moroi princess Jill Dragomir, the last place she expects to be sent is a human private school in Palm Springs, California. But at their new school, the drama is only just beginning.

Populated with new faces as well as familiar ones, Bloodlines explores all the friendship, romance, battles and betrayals that made the #1 New York Times bestselling Vampire Academy series so addictive - this time in a part-vampire, part-human setting where the stakes are even higher and everyone's out for blood.

I loved the Vampire Academy series so it stands to reason I would love Bloodlines, right. Absolutely! Of course, I love Adrian Ivashkov, and I truly wanted him to end up with Rose…but I lost that battle. So, hopefully something better will work out for him in the new series. See the seriously hot trailer HERE.

Richelle did an excellent job of writing the perfect spin-off. She included characters I loved before and added characters that I loved to hate.

As always, here is a character profile for you:

• Sydney Melrose – The alchemist who helped Rose escape when she was suspected of murdering the Queen. She has been in trouble for being a “vamp lover” and is now given a second chance to clear her name and reclaim her status as family alchemist. Tolerating living with a Moroi and hanging out with a damphir may prove to be the easiest thing about this assignment.
• Jill Dragomir – Is the only family of Vasillisa Dragomir, the new Moroi Queen. Moroi law states the queen must have at least one living relative to hold her position. This law puts Jill in danger from those rebelling against Queen Dragomir, including some of her own people.
• Keith Darnell – Is the Palm Spring’s resident Alchemist. He will help Sydney with her mission by being her “liason.” He and Sydney have quite a past.
• Adrian Ivashkov – One of my favorite bad boys in all of paranormal, but definitely my favorite bad boy in all of Vampire Academy. Now, he and his wild ways have won my heart again in Bloodlines and then broke my heart. He is sarcastic, snarky, broken, and caring (in his own way). I was surprised at his role in this book. Certainly not what I expecting.
• Abe Mazur – Another awesome character from Vampire Academy…or not. Honestly, I like Abe, I don’t trust him, but I like him.
• Eddie Castile – Also from Vampire Academy. He is sent to Palm Springs to be Jill’s Dhampir Guardian.
• The infamous Rose Hathaway makes a couple of appearances in Bloodlines.
• Clarence Donahue – Is a moroi who will provide Jill with a feeder and open his house to Adrian.
• Lee Donahue – The son of Clarence. Love interest of Jill…and many other surprising things.

Ah, I love Richelle and everything she writes. Her characters are amazing with real teenage problems mixed with otherworldly problems. Her settings are dynamic, allowing for a multitude of events to occur. Emotions of love, hate, love-hate, lust, pleasure, pain and sometimes pure animosity emanate from her writing.

I think that Bloodlines may hold a different meaning for each person that reads it. For me…I believe it is a need to overcome prejudices and learn to get along with people of all “races.” Alchemist hold an interesting place in Richelle’s world. They are born and raised to believe that all vampires are evil and that the magic they possess is unnatural. Sydney suffers much antagonizing from other Alchemist because she helps the wrong team (Moroi and Dhampirs).


Her tolerance of these paranormal creatures may be just the thing that her enemies need to get rid of her for good. There are things happening in Palm Springs that have nothing to do with vampire politics and Sydney is just the person to uncover these exploitations. Between Jill’s possible impending death and Sydney’s detective work, Palm Spring’s is becoming quite dangerous for humans, Moroi, Dhampirs, and Alchemist. No one is safe.


The pace of Bloodlines was perfect. I had set a time limit for reading yesterday and when it was up…I couldn’t just put the book up…I mean I was at one of my favorite scenes -

“They’re waiting for you. Go on in.” Adrian leaned close to Keith’s ear and spoke in an ominous voice. “If. You. Dare.” he poked Keith’s shoulder and gave a “Muhahaha” kind of monster laugh.

“…Can you draw a skeleton riding a motorcycle with flames coming out of it? And I want a pirate hat on the skeleton. And a parrot on his shoulder. A skeleton parrot. Or maybe a ninja skeleton parrot? No, that would be overkill. But it’d be cool if the biker skeleton could be shooting some ninja throwing stars. That are on fire.” – Adrain

Adrian’s new research partner stepped through the door, and I knew the uneasy peace we’d just established in Palm Springs was about to shatter. – Sydney

Some characters I didn’t mention but hope to see more of…Micah, Trey, Kristin, Julia, and Ms.Terwilliger

Follow Friday and Blog Hop 8/26/11

 

Q. In books like the Sookie Stackhouse (True Blood) series the paranormal creature in question "comes out of the closet" and makes itself known to the world. Which mythical creature do you wish would come out of the closet, for real?

 

Ah, well my answer would have to be the Revenants for Die for Me by Amy Plum. They are sexy and help people who truly need supernatural help. They fight against evil. And…did I mention they are SEXY!

Plus, they are not a popular paranormal creature, so it would be most excellent if they really did exist.

“Non-book-related this week!! Do you have pets?”

Yes I do. We finally found a little shitzu to fit in with our laid back family. Ella is the cutest dogly ever!

Third Sentence Thursday #5

Third Sentence Thursday is a weekly meme which likes to wander around in the forest!

1) Take the book you are reading now and post the third sentence
2) Review this sentence anyway you want (funny and silly reviews encouraged)
3) Post a link to your sentence here (in the comments) or if you don't have a blog, just post it in the comments!

"'Will it happen now?' I asked Kame. 'Are you here to help me...die?'"

Now, why would you ask somebody if they were there to kill you; I would just run screaming!

*The is a unfinished E-Proof from Simon and Schuster's GalleryGrab! There could be changes before publication, which is in September.

Waiting on Wednesday #2

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking The Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Cursed is the sequel to the riveting Demon Kissed.

Ivy's on her way to kick ass and save Collin from the horrors of the Underworld. Along the way she discovers that the truth won't set her free. Deep seeded deception leads Ivy closer to her destiny. But, being queen of the demons is not the destiny she wants. Ivy will have to overcome lust, power, and love if she wants to survive. 
 
CURSED is scheduled to be released on August 31, 2011.
 
 


I have read Demon Kissed and it is one of my favorite books yet! I am looking forward to reading Cursed as soon as it releases! HM Ward does a brilliant job crafting stories and characters that leave you wondering long after you have read the book. She is an Indie writer.

Add to your Goodreads TBR HERE!
Check out my review of Demon Kissed Here!
What? You wanna buy it…check HERE!

Blood Magic by Tessa Gratton

Title – Blood Magic
Author – Tessa Gratton
Publisher – Random House
Tessa Gratton’s Website
Tessa’s Twitter
Tessa’s Facebook
Goodreads

Synopsis -

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.

I absolutely adore this book. Of course, I love dark fiction with lots of quirky, snarky, lovable characters.
Silla – (AKA Drusilla) is a young girl, from Yaleylah, Missouri who finds her parents dead and covered in blood. Yaleylah is a typical small town where rumors of her parents’ death and Silla’s inherited “craziness” runs like wildfire through the school. Crazy may be the least alarming inheritance Silla acquires from her parents. It is definitely not the most dangerous Kennicott legacy…the magic inside her will endanger her and everyone around.

• Reese – is Silla’s older brother who should be away at college; however after the horrifying death of his parents, Reese has delayed his admittance to Kansas State to take care of Silla. He is somewhat overprotective of his little sister, and who can blame him? He is somewhat resistant to the belief that his dad could be innocent, and downright difficult to convince magic is real. Silla desperately needs his faith, understanding, love, and help.

• Nicholas – is a young man from Chicago who has just inherited his grandfather’s home in Yaleylah. His dad is a prominent lawyer with a “cougarish” wife. Nick is rebellious, snarky, condescending, spiteful, brutally honest, and eccentric. (Everything I love in a character.) He has his own memories that he has buried; memories that will resurface as he learns more about Silla.

• Judy – is one of Silla’s Step-Grandmothers. She showed up shortly after the accident and moved right in. She is a perfect ally for Silla.

• Wendy – is Silla’s only friend left from before the “accident.”

• Eric – is Silla’s ex, the president of the drama club, and a surprisingly charming character who will endure much during this story.

• Lilith (Mary) – Mary is Nick’s stepmother. She is a famous author and encouraged the move to Yaleylah. She felt like the small town would be a writer’s haven. But, there could be much more to her than what she seems.

• Ms. Tripp – is the school counselor. She is attempting to help Silla overcome the horrifying experience of her parents death.

• Josephine Darly – is a blood witch who wants to live forever and will try anything to get what she wants.

• Philip – is an important piece of the puzzle that Silla must solve to save her friends and family.

My first impression of this book is that it would be dark, scary, and not my cup of tea. Well, I was right on two of the three, anyway. Blood Magic is built around death, cemeteries, blood, and magic. Some of the magic is pure evil and scared the c… out of me. However, I fell completely and unequivocally in love with this book after just a few pages…especially after meeting Nick.

The book switches perspectives between Silla and Nick…which I love. There is sometimes a bit of overlapping of views that appear repetitive, but overall, I enjoy the back and forth of it all. The one thing I don’t like is switching between past and present times. I have never liked this in books I read, and there is quite a bit of this. The past is important to the story though.

Here are a few of my favorite lines:

I looked up from the dirty haiku I was writing between notes on logarithmic functions. And? I asked with my eyes…I couldn’t be totally rude to somebody who knew his poetry. – Nicholas

“She was hot. And eager, man. A few of us were looking forward to her brother going away to college.” – Eric

I closed my eyes and stepped in. My hands found his shoulders, and my finger bones sucked up the heat from the fire…his hands pressed just over the belt of my low-riding jeans, guiding me, pulling me, pushing me, willing me to twirl and step and glide. – Silla

The characters were troubled and each had a defined personality. Working together they can make life better and save each other. I was suspicious of everyone and everything. The things that Silla, Nick, and Reese can do with magic are down-right frightening.


Tessa Gratton brings emotions to the table that some would rather avoid; others will dwell in the upheaval. A debut novel to be read in the light.

Back to School Love

For all you lucky people going back to school, and you lucky mom's sending your kids back to school and everyone else...I am thinking a giveaway is a perfect way to celebrate, so let's do one!

Any book 15 dollars or less from The Book Depository!

International as long as they ship to your country. 

What? Your not sure...check HERE!

WooHoo! I hit 200 followers so I will now choose 2 winners!!! 

Contest Closed!
Winners Emailed!!!

I will post winners names as soon as I hear from them! Thanks for participating!
 

Tuesday Teaser #5

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:


* Grab your current read
* Open to a random page
* Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
* BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
* Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!
 

Synopsis:

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.

So, I loved this book so much the first time I read it, I had to read it again!!! My review will be up later today! Oh, and I cheated…a little!

“Under the bright kitchen lights, he looked older, and calm. Strong. His hands rested on his knees, and they were wide and large, like they could hold anything I offered. The brown of his eyes washed out in the full spectrum light shining from the brass chandelier. He blinked, and I touched his cheek, brushing my fingers down from the corner of his eye, where someday wrinkles would press.” page 85

Book List Meme by Elle at Maxwell the Tattooed Boy

So, I was doing some Sunday evening Blog Hopping and came across this little Meme at Starcrossed Blogs!

The Meme is hosted by Elle at Maxwell the Tattooed Boy. It sounded like so much fun, I just had to try!

Below a list of 100 books. Bold the ones you've read, italicize the ones you are interested in, and leave the ones you aren't alone. Fun!


1. The Da Vinci Code (Dan Brown)
2. Pride and Prejudice (Jane Austen)
3. To Kill A Mockingbird (Harper Lee) – not because I wanted too!
4. Gone With The Wind (Margaret Mitchell)
5. The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King (Tolkien)
6. The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring (Tolkien)
7. The Lord of the Rings: Two Towers (Tolkien)
8. Anne of Green Gables (L.M. Montgomery)
9. Outlander (Diana Gabaldon)
10. A Fine Balance (Rohinton Mistry)
11. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (Rowling)
12. Angels and Demons (Dan Brown)
13. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (Rowling)
14. A Prayer for Owen Meany (John Irving)
15. Memoirs of a Geisha (Arthur Golden)
16. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone (Rowling)
17. Fall on Your Knees (Ann-Marie MacDonald)
18. The Stand (Stephen King)
19. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (Rowling)
20. Jane Eyre (Charlotte Bronte)
21. The Hobbit (Tolkien)
22. The Catcher in the Rye(J.D. Salinger)
23. Little Women (Louisa May Alcott) – Loved It!!!
24. The Lovely Bones (Alice Sebold)
25 . Life of Pi (Yann Martel)
26. The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy (Douglas Adams)
27. Wuthering Heights (Emily Bronte)
28. The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe (C. S. Lewis)
29. East of Eden (John Steinbeck)
30. Tuesdays with Morrie (Mitch Albom)
31. Dune (Frank Herbert)
32. The Notebook (Nicholas Sparks)
33. Atlas Shrugged (Ayn Rand)
34. 1984 (Orwell) – Almost disliked it more than Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradburry
35. The Mists of Avalon (Marion Zimmer Bradley)
36. The Pillars of the Earth (Ken Follett)
37. The Power of One (Bryce Courtenay)
38. I Know This Much is True (Wally Lamb)
39. The Red Tent (Anita Diamant)
40. The Alchemist (Paulo Coelho)
41. The Clan of the Cave Bear (Jean M. Auel)
42. The Kite Runner(Khaled Hosseini)
43. Confessions of a Shopaholic (Sophie Kinsella)
44. The Five People You Meet In Heaven (Mitch Albom)
45. Bible
46. Anna Karenina (Tolstoy)
47. The Count of Monte Cristo (Alexandre Dumas)
48. Angela’s Ashes (Frank McCourt)
49. The Grapes of Wrath (John Steinbeck)
50. She’s Come Undone (Wally Lamb)
51. The Poisonwood Bible (Barbara Kingsolver)
52. A Tale of Two Cities (Dickens)
53. Ender’s Game (Orson Scott Card)
54. Great Expectations (Dickens)
55. The Great Gatsby (Fitzgerald)
56. The Stone Angel (Margaret Laurence)
57. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (Rowling)
58. The Thorn Birds (Colleen McCullough)
59. The Handmaid’s Tale (Margaret Atwood)
60. The Time Traveller’s Wife (Audrey Niffenegger)
61. Crime and Punishment (Fyodor Dostoyevsky)
62. The Fountainhead (Ayn Rand)
63. War and Peace (Tolstoy)
64. Interview With The Vampire (Anne Rice)
65. Fifth Business (Robertson Davis)
66. One Hundred Years Of Solitude (Gabriel Garcia Marquez)
67. The Sisterhood of the Travelling Pants (Ann Brashares)
68. Catch-22 (Joseph Heller)
69. Les Miserables (Hugo)
70. The Little Prince (Antoine de Saint-Exupery)
71. Bridget Jones’ Diary (Fielding)
72. Love in the Time of Cholera (Marquez)
73. Shogun (James Clavell)
74. The English Patient (Michael Ondaatje)
75. The Secret Garden (Frances Hodgson Burnett)
76. The Summer Tree (Guy Gavriel Kay)
77. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn (Betty Smith)
78. The World According To Garp (John Irving)
79. The Diviners (Margaret Laurence)
80. Charlotte’s Web (E.B. White)
81. Not Wanted On The Voyage (Timothy Findley)
82. Of Mice And Men (Steinbeck)83. Rebecca (Daphne DuMaurier)
84. Wizard’s First Rule (Terry Goodkind)
85. Emma (Jane Austen)
86. Watership Down(Richard Adams)
87. Brave New World (Aldous Huxley)
88. The Stone Diaries (Carol Shields)
89. Blindness (Jose Saramago)
90. Kane and Abel (Jeffrey Archer)
91.The Skin of the Lion (Ondaatje)
92. Lord of the Flies (Golding)
93. The Good Earth (Pearl S. Buck)
94. The Secret Life of Bees (Sue Monk Kidd)
95. The Bourne Identity (Robert Ludlum)
96. The Outsiders (S.E. Hinton)
97. White Oleander (Janet Fitch)
98. A Woman of Substance (Barbara Taylor Bradford
99. The Celestine Prophecy (James Redfield)
100. Ulysses (James Joyce) New

*I should mention my mother was an English Teacher and I was forced into submission on a few of these!

Bout of Books Read-a-Thon

Amanda at On a Book Bender has put together a fabulous Read-a-Thon. I have provided her rules and links below. Go check it out!

Feeling overwhelmed because you have too many books and not enough time to read them? The Bout of Books Read-a-Thon is just what the book doctor ordered.

From August 22nd to August 28th, I will be hosting my first ever read-a-thon: Bout of Books.

Want details? I’ve got those for you!

• Read as much as you can whenever you can between 12:00am 8/22 and 11:59pm 8/28 (your time zone).There is no pressure! Participate even if you can only spare a day or two, a few hours, or even just a few minutes. Use it an excuse to read. Whatever works for you. If you plan to read at all between 8/22 and 8/28, sign up!

• I believe read-a-thons are a great way to network with fellow bloggers. Bout of Books is as much about networking as it is about reading. Get to know your fellow Bout of Books participants.

• There will be challenges and giveaways. If you want to host one, let me know! (fill out the 2nd form below)

• On Saturday, I’ll post again with an example starting line post. You can copy my example or not. At the very least, I would like to know your goals and what books you want to read! I’ll figure out how to get around WordPress restrictions on having a Mr. Linky for posting links. There may be more google forms.

• Keep us up to date on your progress! Post on your blog, Goodreads, or Twitter. If you’re on Twitter, please use the hashtag #boutofbooks. (Following me @BookBender will also help me keep track of you ;)

• Questions? Email me at onabookbender[at]gmail[dot]com

• Want to sign up? Fill out the 1st form below. 2nd form is only for people who want to host a challenge or giveaway.

• And please, tell others. My blogging reach is still pretty small, so spread the word!

Day 2 of the 30 Day Book Meme

The 30 Day Book MeMe is being hosted by At Chimneys and Magic! I thought this was a really great idea! I can’t wait to play along!




Day 1 - Favorite Book You Read Last Year

Today’s Question
Day 2 – A Book You Have Read At least 3 Times

Well, I have a lot of these books. When I find a book I love…I find it difficult to leave it on the shelf. 

However, there is a series that has a special place in my heart and I have read each book in it at least 5 times.
I’m sure many of you could guess the series; however, as I have stated many times on my about me page, my review page, and numerous other pages…do unto others as you would have them do unto you. 

The Twilight Saga has helped and continues to help me through some of the toughest times in my life. I was dealing with some very powerful stuff when a friend recommended The Twilight Saga by Stephenie Meyer to me. I bought Twilight and found a way to escape from the pain and trauma I was living. And, to this very day…if something has me down or depressed, I pull out Twilight, Eclipse, or Breaking Dawn (I don’t really care for New Moon all that much.)


This stunning set, complete with five editions of Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse, Breaking Dawn, and The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner: An Eclipse Novella, makes the perfect gift for fans of the bestselling vampire love story. 
 
Deeply romantic and extraordinarily suspenseful, The Twilight Saga capture the struggle between defying our instincts and satisfying our desires. (Barnes and Noble)

Day 3 - Your Favorite Series...no, it's not The Twilight Saga...you will have to check back tomorrow to get that answer. 

Follow Friday and Blog Hop

Q. If you could write yourself a part in a book, what book would it be and what role would you play in that book?

Oh, I like this question. 

I tend to be really unsure of myself and feel completely weird it company that I do not know. I have always wanted to be one of those girls who was confident, strong, and a leader...like Calla Tor in Nightshade, by Andrea Cremer. I would love to be Calla and have the problems (ie...Ren vs Shay) that she has. LOL!

Calla is so strong and does what she believes is right. She is respected by her pack to the point that they would do anything for her. She never whines...she just acts. Oh, to be Calla!

“What’s the LONGEST book you’ve ever read?”
(Note: I’m putting one caveat on this question. You aren’t allowed to say the Bible, Torah, Qur’an, or other religious/spiritual text.) Gosh, this is a hard question...I would have to say The Girl with The Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larson, or one of its sequels. Most of the books I read are about the same length, but those books seemed to take forever to read, even though I loved them.

Day 1 of the 30 Day Book Meme

The 30 Day Book MeMe is being hosted by At Chimneys and Magic! I thought this was a really great idea! I can’t wait to play along!







Day 01 – The Best Book You Read Last Year?
Oh…this is a tough one…so many great books out there! But this one will work!


Synopsis:
To save her mother's life, Clary must travel to the City of Glass, the ancestral home of the Shadowhunters -- never mind that entering the city without permission is against the Law, and breaking the Law could mean death. To make things worse, she learns that Jace does not want her there, and Simon has been thrown in prison by the Shadowhunters, who are deeply suspicious of a vampire who can withstand sunlight.

As Clary uncovers more about her family's past, she finds an ally in mysterious Shadow-hunter Sebastian. With Valentine mustering the full force of his power to destroy all Shadow-hunters forever, their only chance to defeat him is to fight alongside their eternal enemies. But can Downworlders and Shadowhunters put aside their hatred to work together? While Jace realizes exactly how much he's willing to risk for Clary, can she harness her new found powers to help save the Glass City -- whatever the cost?

Love is a mortal sin and the secrets of the past prove deadly as Clary and Jace face down Valentine in the final installment of the New York Times bestselling trilogy The Mortal Instruments.

I was sad that this was the end of the trilogy, but then Cassandra surprised us with City of Fallen Angels!

Tomorrow – A book that you have read more than 3 times…hmmm!

Waiting On Wednesday…#1

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.










This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:


Synopsis:

When alchemist Sydney is ordered into hiding to protect the life of Moroi princess Jill Dragomir, the last place she expects to be sent is a human private school in Palm Springs, California. But at their new school, the drama is only just beginning.

Populated with new faces as well as familiar ones, Bloodlines explores all the friendship, romance, battles and betrayals that made the #1 New York Times bestselling Vampire Academy series so addictive - this time in a part-vampire, part-human setting where the stakes are even higher and everyone's out for blood.

Due out August 23, 2011! I am so thankful that I only have to wait another week! I loved Vampire Academy and most of all I love Adrien! Cannot wait to find out more about the crew! LOL!

Blood's Voice by Aine P Massie

Title: Blood’s Voice
Author: Aine P. Massie
House of Millar Website
House of Millar Twitter
Aine P Massie @ Goodreads
Blood’s Voice @ Goodreads

Synopsis:

Anya Millar had no memory of her life or an instruction manual on how to navigate the insane world of humans, biting, and reality. Instead, Anya has had to learn to navigate the world of love, life, and sanity while avoiding those that would see her dead or enslaved.

This is the ongoing journey of Anya and Nicholas, human loving vampires and the human they love, Declán. What makes it all more complicated is that they are abominations in their own world and Declán is a natural born vampire hunter called a Guardian.

Anya must come to terms with who she is and her missing past, Nicholas must win back the object of his eternal love while dealing with new cravings in his silent heart, and Declán must learn to destroy the very creatures that he has unequivocally given his heart and blood.

Ahhh… What a story! I have so many feelings about this novel that I do not know where to begin. Let me start by saying…no matter what criticisms I have, I absolutely adored the book. The characters were dynamic and intriguing. The story itself was very interesting. But…before going into all of that, let’s talk about the characters.

• Anya – A vampire who will forever be 16. She has unique powers I dream about having…especially since I have children. It would be great to just speak and they would be forced to obey. HeHe. The power Anya holds is amazing and causes her much despair.
• Nicholas – is Anya’s Vampire Mate. He is also a friend from before her “accident.” He is everything I want my man to be…sweet, kind, loving, supportive, strong…experimental?!?!
• Declan – Oh Declan…where to start. I love Declan. Declan is the kind of guy that goes above and beyond for his friends and his family. He doesn’t ever stress, he just goes with the flow…letting what will happen – happen.
• Kayla – is Declan’s sister with a secret to hide. A secret that Declan is helping her hide.
• Skye – is Declan’s and Kayla’s friend. She is sweet and befriends Anya on her first day of school.
• Star – is a “Bloodless” one who took Anya in after her accident. Anya refers to her as her mom.

There are many other players in this proverbial field…these are only the starters.

Blood’s Voice is a different type of paranormal romance from most books I have read. There are definite similarities to Twilight, but the underlying story is much different.

When I began the book, I was not sure where I was going. The writing is mechanically flawless; however, the overall tone did not remind me of anything “teenagerish.” I felt like I was reading historical fiction that was written in a foreign country as opposed to something contemporary and American. The overall voice was very formal for YA literature and that took away from the story for me. That being said…if the only negative thing I find is flawless writing, then how bad could it be?

After a while, I was able to tune out the writing and fell in love with this story of a young woman with major control issues. Anya has to learn to love herself for who she is and stop defining herself for everyone she loves. Trusting those around her is a difficult task for her. She is tormented by her powers and her passionate love of others. Her morals are rock solid; yet, she is finding it difficult to accept her role as a protector.

Aine’s love for her characters shines in Blood’s Voice. She gives you a reason to become invested in their well-being. The definition of love triangle takes on a whole new meaning in the House of Millar. I was surprised in a most pleasant sort of way. This book does not contain the constant bickering and whining that are found in a lot of YA literature…a refreshing change. And, before I forget…a big thanks to Aine for her inclusion of alternate life styles in a very compelling manner.


* I was provided a free e-book by Aine Massie, the author, in exchange for my honest review of Blood’s Voice.

Teaser Tuesday #4

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

• Grab your current read
  
• Open to a random page
  
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
  
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
  
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

“ I couldn’t focus as Nicholas was abruptly behind me, kissing down my neck as Declan began kissing my mouth fiercely. I vaguely aware of Nicholas’s hands reaching around me t untie my top- and slide it down my now exposed shoulders.”

My review of this book will be posted later today.

More of my Vacation

I truly love exceptionally odd things. So much culture, so much intrigue, so much fun.

Vacation

Loving Santa Fe, NM!!!

Third Sentence Thursday #2

•   Title: The Juliet Spell
•   Author: Douglas Rees
•   Courtesy of Netgalley
•   Publisher: HarlequinTeen
•   Synopsis:
I wanted the role of Juliet more than anything. I studied hard. I gave a great reading for it—even with Bobby checking me out the whole time. I deserved the part. I didn’t get it. So I decided to level the playing field, though I actually might have leveled the whole play. You see, since there aren’t any Success in Getting to Be Juliet in Your High School Play spells, I thought I’d cast the next best—a Fame spell. Good idea, right? Yeah. 

Instead of bringing me a little fame, it brought me someone a little famous. Shakespeare. Well, Edmund Shakespeare. William’s younger brother. Good thing he’s sweet and enthusiastic about helping me with the play...and—ahem—maybe a little bit hot. But he’s from the past. Way past. Cars amaze him—cars! And cell phones? Ugh. Still, there’s something about him that’s making my eyes go star-crossed.... Will Romeo steal her heart before time steals him away? 

THIRD SENTENCE:  “To the universe proffering, I make this offering.” 
Honestly, this is as far as I have read. I am not really sure what I am getting myself into? Hmmmm….

WWW Wednesdays–August 10th

 
To play along, just answer the following three (3) questions…
• What are you currently reading?
• What did you recently finish reading?
• What do you think you’ll read next?
 
 

MY ANSWERS

Reading Now…

Just Finished…

Probably Read Next…

That’s quite a list I have compiled! I really enjoyed The Girl of Fire and Thorns. Excellent book! My reviews of the three just finished books are up now! Check them out!

 

What does you list look like?