Unputdownable Books

New Release + Giveaway: Entangled by Nikki Jefford

2012-02-23T17:12:00.001+03:00

Entangled by Nikki Jefford is a fresh new YA Paranormal series that is based on something other than vampires and werewolves and something incredibly unique. Want to know more? Read the synopsis below or watch the book trailer:

Synopsis:

A Resurrection Spell Gone Wrong

Two months after dying, Graylee Perez wakes up in her identical twin sister, Charlene’s body. As a witch, can anyone blame her mother for attempting to bring her daughter back to life? Only now Gray’s stuck sharing her sister’s body 50/50 in twenty-four hour shifts. The race is on for Gray to find a way back inside her own body before Charlene purges her from existence.

Warlock Raj McKenna is rumored to meddle in the black arts, not to mention he’s after Gray’s invisibility spell and worse – her heart. But Raj might be the only one powerful enough to save Gray from fading away forever.

Book Trailer:

And I'm happy to announce that its out and its ready for your purchase! Its available at Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Smashwords. You can also win it! Read on to find out how.

Rules:

Ends on March 1, 2012

Open Internationally

You'll win an eBook version of this book

Comment with your EMAIL and Name

ANSWER THE FOLLOWING QUESTION:

Giveaway Question

The witches and warlocks in Entangled share basic magical abilities; and then they have advanced spells of their own. If you could choose one of the following powers, which would it be?

The power to freeze people in place and take away their voice
Body transfers
Invisibility
Teleportation
Mind reading

What do you think about the book? I can't wait to read it.

I have been book tagged. (Yay!)

2012-02-23T16:35:00.001+03:00

I've been tagged by a wonderful friend and author, Cece @ http://cecereadandwrite.blogspot.com/2012/02/i-have-been-book-tagged.html

The Rules:

1. You must post the rules.
2. Answer the questions the tagger set for you in their post and then create ten new questions to ask the people that you have tagged.
3. Tag ten people and link to them on your post.
4. Let them know you’ve tagged them!

The 10 questions in points:

1. Angels, dragons or Vampires?
2. Who is your favourite author?
3. What are you currently reading?
4. If you could appear as a character in a book, which one would it be?
5. What is your favourite book series?
6. What is your favourite genre and why?
7. If you were given a chance to interview a character from a book, which one would it be?
8. Which do you prefer: ebooks or print?
9. A quote from a book that took your breath away.
10. Other than reading, what are your other interests?

My answers:
1. Angels, dragons or Vampires?

Out of the three, I'd say Vampires. Vampires are sensual, sexy, powerful and oh so demonic. While Angels can be hot and all too good. But they're lacking that demonic flare that vampires have. As for dragons, they're cool creatures but not in a book. In movies and TV Series Dragons kick ass!

2. Who is your favourite author?

Megan Duncan, Karina Halle, Jeanienne Frost, Karen Marie Moning, and Richelle Mead.

3. What are you currently reading?

The Vampire Narcise by Colleen Gleason

4. If you could appear as a character in a book, which one would it be?

Anna from Anna and the french kiss.

5. What is your favourite book series?

Vampire Academy

6. What is your favourite genre and why?

Urban Fantasy and Contemporary Romance, the first one because they're adultish and paranormalish while the other because I love romances especially angsty ones.

7. If you were given a chance to interview a character from a book, which one would it be?

I'd loooooooove to interview Bones from the Night Huntress Series. I want to know about his time as a gigolo. :D

8. Which do you prefer: ebooks or print?

Printed books!

9. A quote from a book that took your breath away.

The only quote from a book that I actually remember is :

"Do you think I am an automaton? — a machine without feelings? and can bear to have my morsel of bread snatched from my lips, and my drop of living water dashed from my cup? Do you think, because I am poor, obscure, plain, and little, I am soulless and heartless? You think wrong! — I have as much soul as you — and full as much heart! And if God had gifted me with some beauty and much wealth, I should have made it as hard for you to leave me, as it is now for me to leave you. I am not talking to you now through the medium of custom, conventionalities, nor even of mortal flesh: it is my spirit that addresses your spirit; just as if both had passed through the grave, and we stood at God's feet, equal — as we are!”

10. Other than reading, what are your other interests?

Well, I'm a graphics designer so I love all types of art. Aside from that I love drawing, painting and blogging (obviously about books). AND TV SERIES! Supernatural and Once upon a time are my favorites.

That concludes me being tagged! I won't be tagging anyone but if you'd like to do these I automatically tag you with these questions:

1. What're you reading?

2. Your house is on fire, what is the first thing you grab?

3. Your favorite Book Boyfriend:

4. Your favorite Tv Series:

5. Your favorite Book Cover:

6. Young Adult or Urban Fantasy?

7. Your ultimate fav book

8. A book you'll never forget:

9. The book boyfriend you wished you had and why?

10. Are you a Twilight Fan?

Review: With this Kiss by Victoria Lynne

2012-02-21T22:25:00.001+03:00

(Click image for goodreads page)
Title: With this Kiss by Victoria Lynne
Author: Victoria Lynne
Started: 18/2/12
Finished: 21/2/12
Medium: eBook (from Sizzling PR)
Genre: Historical Romance
Buy: Amazon / Barnes & Noble

Goodreads Synopsis:

Beauty and the beast--they were the scandal of the ton....

All eyes feasted on the beautiful flame-haired gambler in London's most infamous club. But Julia Prentisse was interested only in the rake-turned-recluse whom they now called "The Beast." She lured him out of the crowded club to a deserted warehouse, where she made her scandalous offer: If he married her and protected her from her uncle, she would help him catch the arsonist who had ruined his life.

An act of heroism had left Morgan burned, scarred for life. But Julia's bold gaze lit other fires he had long suppressed. And now this glorious stranger was his bride. But when he tried to claim his husbandly rights, she demanded three months grace--three months to know a stranger's mind, to touch a stranger's soul, to go where no woman had ever gone before. Into his lonely heart . . .

‘With this Kiss’ is based on the basic concept of Beauty and the Beast. And along with it came a charming, rich, hateful, beast of a man called Morgan and a winding, witty and headstrong beauty with fury colored hair called Julia. The story began with a tragedy, flowed along in zigzags of realistically written calamities together with the unpredictable end.

It was written beautifully, plotted perfectly and kept up at the right pace with amazing 1800’s dialogue that reminds a reader of Mr. Darcy and Elisabeth or Mr. Rochester and Jane Eyre. A side from that, it held its own mysteriousness as they (Julia and Morgan) make an arrangement that lands them at THE aisle fighting to find who is behind London’s Fires that claimed many lives even people close to them.

I adored how “push and pull” Morgan and Julia’s relationship was and the fact that Morgan has never met anyone like Julia (go figure) in his dreadful life as a ‘rake’, a man who finds it easy to find a woman every now and then (this was before the fire that scarred him).

With this Kiss was a straight up unputdownable book. It's the right arrangement of delicious mystery, steamy moments and heart-lurching moments that's an instant five star book that’ll simply quench a historical romance junkie thirst to read more of the genre.

Book Excerpt: Witchful Thinking: A Jolie Wilkins Novel by H.P. Mallory

2012-02-21T20:58:00.002+03:00

A fabulous excerpt from the very awesome H.P. Mallory! :D Thanks Random House Publishing for this. ENJOY!

BUY LINK -- on sale, 2/28/2012

Witchful Thinking: A Jolie Wilkins Novel by H. P. Mallory (Free Excerpt)

In My Mailbox #40

2012-02-19T18:39:00.000+03:00

A weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren, where we post all books we have received where in the mail, bought or got from the library.

I got these as a Valentines gift from Kal, my boyfriend. *goes all warm and fuzzy inside*

The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith

Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi

What did you guys get this week?

Blog Tour: Ties to the Blood Moon Excerpt by Robin P. Waldrop

2012-02-17T12:19:00.000+03:00

Goodreads Synopsis:

Genevieve is a teenage girl who moves in with her aunt in Alaska after the death of her mother. Soon after her arrival she learns the things she was raised to believe only existed in fairytales are in fact a big part of her history. When it gets to be too much she seeks refuge in the arms of her new boyfriend, William, only to find out he's not who she thought he was either.

When Luna and I re-entered the cave, there were twice as many people sitting around the fire than before, and Miss Baylor was setting the scene for the story she was about to tell and seemed to have everyone’s undivided attention. William stood across the room, staring a hole right through me, and I couldn’t help but feel embarrassed, like he could read my thoughts and knew how badly I wanted him close to me. At the same moment I was thinking that, I gave him a sidelong glance, and he made a poor attempt to hide his grin.

Miss Baylor chanted something in a language I didn’t understand while sprinkling herbs or something into the fire. I was beginning to wonder just what I had gotten myself into. For all I knew, I could be in the middle of a satanic ritual. I giggled silently at the outrageous thought. After Miss Baylor circled the fire she resumed her seat among us and began telling a story. “Some believe the Adlet wolf is nothing more than a myth. But as natives of Alaska we know this to be an untruth. Many generations back there was an Adlet queen. She bore a female child … a princess. And this daughter had a daughter, and so on.” She peered intently at each one of the students as she spoke.

“Is this supposed to be a ghost story or what?” I whispered in Luna’s ear. Luna seemed to be entranced by Miss Baylor’s story and without taking her eyes off her, she just put her finger to her lips signaling me to be quiet and listen. Sitting on the dirt floor, I sighed, propping my chin in my hands and stared into the fire only half listening.

“Then evil came upon the tribe and killed many, including the Adlet princess … or so they thought. The tribes-people that were spared told a story of a woman returning years later and telling them that one day a princess would come and unite the different tribes. She said only then would the Wolves, Lycan, and Blood Drinkers live together in peace.”

“Really? I’m sitting here on a Friday night listening to this crap? What does this story have to do with anything?” I mumbled and started to get up, but Luna pulled me back down.

“You have to stay or you’ll break the circle.” She warned. Some of the students heard us whispering and glowered at me. “This is our heritage,” she added in a whisper. “Just listen.”

Miss Baylor stood and scooped some powder out of a pouch that hung around her waist, and tossed it into the fire. Sparks of every color floated up into the air as she started chanting. “I invite the princess of the Adlet wolf to join me in spiritual union. She is the tenth generation of daughters. On this, the night of her birth, the moon will start out white, but when she rises to take the throne, it will bleed and become solid red. Come. Give the blessing and show me your mark. If she is one upon us let the fire turn dark.”

Miss Baylor stopped, immediately the fire went completely out, and the room turned pitch black for several seconds. I heard whispers in the dark, then the fire promptly roared back to life. At first, I thought it was just some kind of joke until I looked at Miss Baylor’s face. All her color had drained. Her face was snow white and she appeared to be in shock.

Buy: Smashwords | Goodreads | B&N | Amazon

Desperately Wanting Wednesday #1

2012-02-15T21:21:00.001+03:00

Books from new to extremely old. The books you haven't read at all but want to so badly. Showcase them for this feature by Parajunkee.

Lots of books in the contemporary genre, I'm desperately wanting. I'm expanding my book collection to these fabulous ones soon!

Catching Jordan by Miranda Kenneally

What girl doesn't want to be surrounded by gorgeous jocks day in and day out? Jordan Woods isn't just surrounded by hot guys, though-she leads them as the captain and quarterback of her high school football team. They all see her as one of the guys, and that's just fine. As long as she gets her athletic scholarship to a powerhouse university. But now there's a new guy in town who threatens her starting position... suddenly she's hoping he'll see her as more than just a teammate.

Amplified by Tara Kelly

When privileged 17-year-old Jasmine gets kicked out of her house, she takes what is left of her savings and flees to Santa Cruz to pursue her dream of becoming a musician. Jasmine finds the ideal room in an oceanfront house, but she needs to convince the three guys living there that she's the perfect roommate and lead guitarist for their band, C-Side. Too bad she has major stage fright and the cute bassist doesn't think a spoiled girl from over the hill can hack it. . .
In this fresh new novel by critically acclaimed author Tara Kelly, Jasmine finds out what happens when her life gets Amplified

The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith

Who would have guessed that four minutes could change everything?
Today should be one of the worst days of seventeen-year-old Hadley Sullivan's life. She's stuck at JFK, late to her father's second wedding, which is taking place in London and involves a soon to be step-mother that Hadley's never even met. Then she meets the perfect boy in the airport's cramped waiting area. His name is Oliver, he's British, and he's in seat 18C. Hadley's in 18A.

Twists of fate and quirks of timing play out in this thoughtful novel about family connections, second chances and first loves. Set over a 24-hour-period, Hadley and Oliver's story will make you believe that true love finds you when you're least expecting it.

I love all the covers! :D What do you guys think of the books? Have you read them?

Quick Review: The Vampire Dimitri (Regency Dracule #2) by Colleen Gleason

2012-02-11T21:11:00.003+03:00

(Click image for goodreads page)
Title: The Vampire Dimitri (The Regency Draculia #2)
Author: Colleen Gleason
Started: 9/2/12
Finished: 11/2/12
Publisher: Mira
Medium: Paperback
Genre: Historical Romance / Paranormal Romance
Buy: Amazon / The Book Depository / Barnes & Noble

Goodreads Synopsis:

Dimitri, also known as the Earl of Corvindale, should be delighted that the headstrong Maia Woodmore is getting married. His mortal ward and houseguest has annoyed--and bewitched--the Dracule nobleman too long, and denying his animal cravings grows more excruciating by the day.
Miss Woodmore's family has a rather...complicated history with the immortals and she herself possesses a keen sensibility far beyond mere women's intuition. Marriage will give her safety, respectability and everything else a proper young lady could wish for. Everything, that is, except passion.
In the looming battle between Dracule factions, all pretenses will shatter as Maia and Dimitri come together in an unholy union of danger, desperation and fiercest desire.

This is the first book I've ever read that actually started out like the first book but in someone else's point of view. Its safe to say that anyone can read any part of the series without reading the first few books.

I loved this better than Vampire Voss. I think it was the concept of the Beauty and the Beast that made it all the more intriguing. I really love all the love and hate relationship. Its so fun to read! Plus, Dimitri is waaaaay hotter than Voss. And Maia is waaaay better than Angelica. Haha, that didn't make much sense.

Okay, so I kind of skipped some parts in this one because there was repeated conversations and events that was in the first book. That bit kind of put me off a bit. But when I continued reading on, I just couldn't stop reading.

Another 5 stars to Colleen. I'm hesitant on reading Narcise. Mainly because I didn't like her much in the first two books. She just seems so "evil in disguise". BUT I'm looking forward to reading Colleens other work.

In My Mailbox #40 (Megan Duncan Edition!)

2012-02-11T20:46:00.001+03:00

A weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren, where we post all books we have received where in the mail, bought or got from the library.

I came home from Uni this Wednesday and found a bunch of packages in the living room for me! Yaaay! The first ones I opened was the package I got from Megan (author of Released and Savor). :D Here's what she sent me! *supre excited*

Look at that awesomeness! :D Thanks so much Megan! You are AWESOME! *huugs*

If you guys haven't read Released or Savor yet. You should go and buy it cause they're awesome!

Bookmarks! Yayyy! I always love getting them!

Some wonderful books I got as well! I can't wait to read Cinder and Dead Sky Morning!

Bitten by Dan O' Brien

Dead Sky Morning by Karina Halle

Cinder by Marissa meyer

Indulge by Megan Duncan

Tempest Legacy by Nicole Peeler

Exclusively Yours by Shannon Stacey

What did you get in your IMM?

Cover Reveal: Want by Stephanie Lawton

2012-02-11T00:30:00.000+03:00

For the sake of sharing something incredibly wonderful, I give you the cover of Want by Stephanie Lawton. Its an intriguing story that you can read about below!

Goodreads Synopsis:

Julianne counts the days until she can pack her bags and leave her old-money, tradition-bound Southern town where appearance is everything and secrecy is a way of life. A piano virtuoso, she dreams of attending a prestigious music school in Boston. Failure is not an option, so she enlists the help of New England Conservatory graduate Isaac Laroche to help her.

She can’t understand why he suddenly gave up Boston’s music scene to return to the South. He doesn’t know her life depends on escaping it. Julianne must face down madness from without, just as it threatens from within. Isaac must resist an inappropriate attraction, but an indiscretion at a Mardi Gras ball—the pinnacle event for Mobile’s elite—forces their present wants and needs to collide with sins of the past.

Find Stephanie on:

Website | Twitter | Facebook

Add Want to your TBR pile

What do you guys think?

Review: The Vampire Voss (The Regency Draculia #1) by Colleen Gleason

2012-02-08T17:17:00.002+03:00

(Click image for goodreads page)
Title: The Vampire Voss (The Regency Draculia #1)
Author: Colleen Gleason
Started: 6/2/12
Finished: 8/2/12
Publisher: Mira
Medium: Paperback
Genre: Historical Romance / Paranormal Romance
Buy: Amazon / The Book Depository / Barnes & Noble

Goodreads Synopsis:

Regency London – a dizzying whirl of balls and young ladies pursued by charming men.

But the Woodmore sisters are hunted by a more sinister breed: Lucifer's own.

Voss, also known as Viscount Dewhurst, relishes the sensual pleasures immortality affords. A member the Dracule – a cabal of powerful, secretive noblemen marked with a talisman that reveals their bartered souls – the mercenary Voss has remained carefully neutral ... until Angelica.

Angelica Woodmore possess the Sight, an ability invaluable to both sides of a looming war among the Dracule. Her very scent envelops Voss in a scarlet fog of hunger – for her body and her blood. But he is utterly unprepared for the new desire that overcomes him – to protect her.

Now Voss must battle his very nature to be with Angelica ... but this vampire never backs down from a fight.

Its been about almost more than a year since I've read a full on historical romance/regency book. And reading this was extremely refreshing. As a lover of all things Austen and Bronte this was almost of its like but with its own originality. Of course, this was more simple in terms of descriptions and dialogue. But all together great!

Okay fine, vampires are overrated. But come on! We've all contributed to its "overratedness" and you can't deny it at all. In this first installment in the Regency Draculia series, Vampire Voss likes playing games and sneaking around observing his peers and learning about their dirtiest and darkest secrets, which he uses against them. In all his years as a vampire, he has gained more enemies than friends. Throughout the entire book he had probably only one friend, who eventually turns on him somewhere. That wasn't a spoiler!

As handsome, dark and alluring Voss may be, he has met his "match" in the opposite gender. Angelica is stern, not all that kick-ass but someone you can realisticly connect with. I loved how her demeanor was portrayed and enjoyed her urge to go against society's morals.

As much as I liked the characters, the dialogue was even better, especially when everything was written so smoothly. The book was filled with many elements. My favorite being the historical bit and maybe the splash of paranormal here and there.

The plot had a wonderful introduction, peak and everything in between. It really does keep you reading and may seem a little rushed in places but that usually can't be helped.

Colleen Gleason has written an excellent book about duty, propriety and unconditional love. Along with her wonderfully written dialogue and sprinkles of humor, she almost had it perfectly. Definitely a good read for the historical lovers.

Review: That Summer by Sarah Dessen

2012-02-06T17:56:00.001+03:00

(Click image for goodreads page)
Title: That Summer
Author: Sarah Dessen
Started: 1/2/12
Finished: 6/2/12
Publisher: Speak
Medium: Paperback
Genre: Young Adult
Buy: Amazon / The Book Depository / Barnes & Noble

Goodreads Synopsis:
The more things change...

For fiteen-year-old Haven, there's just too much going on. First, there's her father's wedding to Lorna Queen, the local television "Weather Pet." Then her sister Ashley's wedding to boring Lewis Warsher, who doesn't seem to suit Ashley at all. And Haven can't ignore the fact that she's nearly six feet tall and still growing. Haven can barely figure out who she is anymore or where she fits in. Then Ashley's old boyfriend, Sumner Lee, shows up and sparks Haven's memories of the summer when her parents were happy, her sister was plucky and carefree, and everything was perfect...or so it seemed.

To be completely frank. I expected so much from this book only to be disappointed. I expected a book with more depth and a better plot. Okay, so there wasn't much of a plot. I've read other books that were equally plotless but this one I didn't like much at all. It lacked everything I wanted in a contemporary, young adult book. And seriously. I just feel bad about it. After the 100th page I started feeling like the story, or an inkling of it was going down hill from there.

This book is pretty much written for way younger readers below 14 years of age. And I'm hoping whoever read this below that age group were able to understand whatever morale Dessen has written it to give out.

That Summer is Sarah Dessen's debut novel and I'm pretty sure she has gotten better over the years. Since everyone loves her books. I'm going to go ahead and pick up her latest book and have at it. In hopes that her books have more depth and a lot more fluff!

New Release: On the Brightside by S. R. Johannes

2012-01-31T17:46:00.000+03:00

On The Bright Side by S. R. Johannes

Publisher: Coleman & Stott
ISBNs: ebook:

ISBN 10 – 0984799117
13 - 978-0-9847991-1-4

Paperback (available in Feb):
ISBN-10: 0984799133
ISBN-13: 978-0-9847991-3-8

Buy: Paperback will be available in Feb.
To buy the Kindle ebook - The ebook is $2.99 and can be purchased at amazon

BOOK TRAILER

Synopsis:

On the Bright Side is a hilarious road to guardian angeldom paved with so much drama and due-paying that it makes middle school look painless.

As if the devil’s food cake at her wake and the white fat pants she’s stuck wearing for eternity weren’t bad enough, fourteen year-old Gabby is quick to discover that Cirrus, the main rung of Heaven, is a far cry from the Pearly Gates. Here, Skyphones and InnerNets are all the rage. Until Gabby finds out she has to protect Angela, her school nemesis, in order to move up through the training levels of heaven. Problem is, Angela is now hitting on Gabby's should-have-been boyfriend. (awkward!)

Instead of protecting Angela, Gabby pranks her (like tripping is a sin?) at the hopes of cooling off the new couple. At first, they seem harmless until the school dance sabotage gets completely out of control. Then, her Celestial Sky Agent, who happens to have anger management issues of his own, puts Gabby on probation, threatening her eternal future.

Determined to right her wrongs, Gabby steals an ancient artifact that allows her to return to Earth for just one day. Without knowing, she kicks off a series of events and learns what can happen when you hate someone to death.

Praises for Untraceable

"Grace is a spunky, independent, nature girlwho doesn't need a boy to save her. With wilderness survival, a juicy lovetriangle, and more twists and turns than a roller coaster, this fast-pacednovel had me holding my breath until the very last page—and still begging formore!" - Kimberly Derting, authorof the The Body Finder series(Harper Teen) and The Pledge series(S&S)

"Thisthrilling story is a dramatic entanglement of mystery, deception and teenromance. The action flows like a brisk mountain stream interspersed withrapids, holding suspense to last page." - Kirkus Reviews

2009 Amazon Breakthrough Novel Quarterfinalist(under the original title of Grace Under Fire) - Judges Reviews:

"This story starts out with a bang...it readslike the young woman were narrating it to a friend, and had the ring of a youngperson's style and intensity. Grace sees authority people, or at least thoseshe knows, as a bit bumbling, which is true to age. Authentic representation ofyouth in action also. Original in premise and style, and good use ofbackground...Good story!" - Sue Grafton, author ofbestselling Kinsey Milhone series

"This murder mystery features a teenagedheroine, but she has the self assurance of a woman twice her age. The prose isvery descriptive...and the dialogue is genuine. The setting of small town NorthCarolina and the surrounding woods is appealing. The story moves along at abrisk clip, and it feels as if we already have some important clues. We lookforward to seeing what's in the case file and what Grace and her motorbike,Luci, will be up to next." - Sue Monk Kidd, author ofSecret Life of Bees

Praises for On The Bright Side

"S.R. Johannes delivers a cute paranormal thrillride for middle graders! Even in death there is a BRIGHT SIDE!" -Addison Moore, author of the bestselling Celestra series and soon to be TV show

Clever and charming, ON THE BRIGHT SIDE is thestory of a reluctant guardian angel, her still-breathing crush, and the frenemyshe’s assigned to protect. A great read! -Suzanne Young, author of A Need SoBeautiful, A Want So Wicket (6/12), and The Program (2013)

“ON THE BRIGHT SIDE is both hilarious andheart-warming – a tale that’ll have you hoping that there really *are* spunkyand determined angels like Gabby who’ve got our backs.” - Kristin O’Donnell Tubb, authorof Selling Hope & The 13th Sign (2013) (Feiwel & Friends)

"With a smart, snappy heroine and aheart-warming crush, ON THE BRIGHT SIDE is a page-turning new take on guardianangels that left me begging for a sequel!" - Gretchen McNeil, author ofPossess and Ten (9/12) (Balzar + Bray)

This book sounds like a lot of fun! What do you guys think?

Author Bio:

S.R.Johannes is the author of Untraceable (a teen wilderness thriller) and On TheBright Side ( a tween paranormal). She lives in Atlanta Georgia with herdog, British-accented husband, and the huge imaginations of their little princeand princess, which she hopes- someday- will change the world. Afterearning an MBA and working in corporate america, S.R. Johannes traded in herexpensive suits, high heels, and corporate lingo for a family, flip-flops, andher love of writing.

TO RECEIVE AUTHOR NEWS

If you would like to get periodic author news on my upcoming special edition in Jan or on the release of my future books, please register your email address here. I do not expect to send more than one email a month.

Email / Blog / Twitter / Facebook / Goodreads / Untracable Goodreads

On The Bright Side Goodreads / In His Eyes Anthology Goodreads

Review: First Grave on the Right (Charley Davidson #1) by Darynda Jones

2012-01-30T22:43:00.001+03:00

(Click image for goodreads page)
Title: First Grave on the Right (Charley Davidson #1)
Author: Darynda Jones
Started: 24/1/12
Finished: 30/1/12

Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks
Medium: Paperback
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy

Buy: Amazon / The Book Depository / Barnes & Noble

Goodreads Synopsis:

A smashing, award-winning debut novel that introduces Charley Davidson: part-time private investigator and full-time Grim Reaper

Charley sees dead people. That’s right, she sees dead people. And it’s her job to convince them to “go into the light.” But when these very dead people have died under less than ideal circumstances (i.e. murder), sometimes they want Charley to bring the bad guys to justice. Complicating matters are the intensely hot dreams she’s been having about an Entity who has been following her all her life...and it turns out he might not be dead after all. In fact, he might be something else entirely.

This is a thrilling debut novel from an exciting newcomer to the world of paranormal romantic suspense.

This is the easiest book I've ever scored 5 stars to. The moment I finished the first chapter, I knew it would be a 5 star thing all the way through. First Grave on the Right has its own original dialogue. It is snarky, sarcastic and all together hilarious. I have never laughed so much while reading a paranormal/urban fantasy book. EVER.

Charlotte Davidson is the most colorful character I've read about so far. I'm surprised when she hasn't been complaining, nagging and overall being emo at the fact that she was born with this job (being a grimm reaper). Most protagonists I've read about have all been whinny about their gifts. "Oh, I don't know what I am! I don't know where I belong" Yada yada yada! Charlotte is a HUGE sport and even though she's still discovering things about her "job". She still stands strong and instead of being naggy and whiney about it. She graces these wonderful pages with snarky sly comments and hilarious analogies.

The book was pretty Anita Blake like, but in its own unique way and minus all the vampires, zombies, and werewolves (THANK GOODNESS). Charley is a Private Investigator, who helps the local police department solve cold cases and current cases they can't seem to solve themselves. And being the Grimm Reaper and all, its easier for Charley to find missing persons with her ghostly-informants sidekicks. Of course, she isn't able to do this without the help of her Detective Uncle, Bob.

No matter how much this series reminds me of the Anita Blake series. It held its own originality and plot. Anita Blake Series was definitely NOT this funny. First Grave on the Right is an excellent book filled with humor, excitement, mystery and its own shade of dark elements as well as morbid moments. For a debut novel, Jones sure does know how to write them wonderful dialogues. An unputdownable read! Pick it up, if you haven't already.

In My Mailbox #39

2012-01-29T17:16:00.002+03:00

A weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren, where we post all books we have received where in the mail, bought or got from the library.

I got these from a few design jobs (as usual):

Redfox (Experiment in Terror #2) by Karina Hall

Feed (Newsflesh Trilogy) by Mira Grant

My Soul to Take (Soul Screamer #1) by Rachel Vincent

My Soul to Save (Soul Screamer #2) by Rachel Vincent

The Bite Before Christmas by Lynsay Sands & Jeaniene Frost

Lord of Misrule (Morganville vampires #5) by Rachel Caine

When Beauty Tamed the Beast (Fairy Tales #2) by Eloisa James

The Duke is Mine (Fairy Tales #3) by Eloisa James

I've been waiting for these for awhile now. I'm glad they came safely. Though some were sort of damaged. But thats okay! As long as the pages are still intact.

What did you guys get in your mailbox?

Blog Tour Review: Immortalis Series by Katie Salidas

2012-01-29T17:00:00.000+03:00

Immortalis Carpe Noctem

(Immortalis Series #1 )

Publisher: Rising Sign Books, LLC.
Print Publishing Date: March 2, 2010
Author: Katie Salidas
Available in print and/or ebook at:
Amazon.com | Amazon.co.UK | Amazon.co.DE |

Barnes & Noble | Smashwords

Synopsis:

Bleeding to death after brutal mugging on the campus of UNLV, Twenty-five year old Alyssa, is rescued by the cold and aloof, vampire, Lysander. Taking pity on her, he shares the gift-and curse-of immortality. She awakens as a vampire and is soon devastated by harsh realities of her new way of life: the loss of her friends, her independence, and her humanity.

As if having her humanity stripped away was not enough to make life interesting, Alyssa finds out her “turning”, did not go unnoticed by the rest of undead society. Old enemies; an ancient sect of vampire hunters, known as the Acta Sanctorum, as well as a powerful Vampire mistress, each set plans in motion to destroy both Alyssa and Lysander. Only by accepting her newfound immortality, seizing the night, will Alyssa hope to survive. She and Lysander must fight together against two sets of enemies bent on destroying them both.

Started: 2/1/12 Finished: 5/1/12

I started this series in high hopes of witnessing and reading all about a kick-ass heroine. And sadly, I was disappointed. To say the least, Alyssa is weak and not the heroine I expected at first. She was pathetic at times. Especially when she’s facing her enemies. As much as she’d love to be courageous. She was just naïve and stupid.

I’ll give the author some credit and say, yes. The plot was okay and the writing was great but it was all backed-up by a weak protagonist. I liked how it started out even though it was a terrible situation for Alyssa that nearly killed her. It was written fabulously well and along the way that fabness went away.

The first book of the Immortalis series could have been better. It might be great to some people but for me it wasn’t something as grand as I thought.

For its dramatic start, okay plot and great writing. I’ll give this installment a 2.5/5 stars in hopes that the next books will be better.

Hunters & Prey

(Immortalis Series #2 )
Publisher: Rising Sign Books, LLC.
Print Publishing Date: December 10, 2010
Author: Katie Salidas
Available in print and/or ebook at:
Amazon.com | Amazon.co.UK | Amazon.co.DE

Barnes & Noble | Smashwords

Synopsis:

Becoming a vampire saved Alyssa from death, but the price was high: the loss of everything and everyone attached to her mortal life. She’s still learning to cope when a surprise confrontation with Santino Vitale, the Acta Sanctorum’s most fearsome hunter, sends her fleeing back to the world she once knew, and Fallon, the friend she’s missed more than anything.

Alyssa breaks vampire law by revealing her new, true self to her old friend, a fact which causes strong division in the group that should support her most: her clan.

Worse yet, her revelation entangles Fallon in the struggle between vampires and hunters and The Acta Sanctorum is ready to attack again, with a new army of hybrid creations: the Frenzy Soldiers. If Alyssa hopes to survive and keep her mortal friend safe, she’ll have to be willing to make a deal with the enemy, and regain her clan’s support. It will take everyone working together in a precarious truce to fight against the Acta Sanctorum’s new threat.

Started: 7/1/12 Finished: 10/1/12

This was much much better! The writing style of the Katieimproved and her hard work can be seen. But like before Alyssa annoyed theliving hell out of me. She’s just annoyingly foolish. She’s brave but entirelyfoolish! She nearly got herself and her clan members killed countless times. Ihope Katie wrote her to be that way because she has plans for her later on. Butseriously, Alyssa annoys me.

Aside from that, the plot in this one was way more stern andbetter. I loved reading how it all went and it was actually exciting. Great jobKatie!

Overall, a great turn of events in this installment butstill a weak protagonist. I’m waiting for her to grow out of it. Until then,3/5 stars for part 2 in the Immortalis series.

Pandora's Box

(Immortalis Series #3 )
Publisher: Rising Sign Books, LLC.

Print Publishing Date: July 12th 2011
Author: Katie Salidas
Available in print and/or ebook at:
Amazon.com | Amazon.co.UK | Amazon.co.DE
Barnes & Noble | Smashwords

Synopsis:

After a few months as a vampire, Alyssa thought she’d learned all she needed to know about the supernatural world. But her confidence is shattered by the delivery of a mysterious package – a Pandora’s Box.

Seemingly innocuous, the box is in reality an ancient prison, generated by a magic more powerful than anyone in her clan has ever known. But what manner of evil could need such force to contain it?

When the box is opened, the sinister creature within is released, and only supernatural blood will satiate its thirst. The clan soon learns how it feels when the hunter becomes the hunted.

Apparently powerless against the ancient evil, the clan flees Las Vegas for Boston, with only a slim hope for salvation. Could Lysander’s old journals hold the key? And what if they don’t?

And how welcome will they be in a city run by a whole different kind of supernatural being?

Werewolves…

Started: 11/1/12 Finished: 15/1/12

Definitely getting better with each book. Alyssa here isn’tthat naïve and is sort of easier to tolerate. The events rolled in quickly andthere was action already. I’m kind of sad about how Salidas ended thisinstallment. But I know for sure there is more to this series.

I’m hoping Alyssa and Fallon become more establishedcharacters and Lysander stop being just a stereotypical hero in the story. I’mgetting tired of the tall, dark, ancient and handsome types. They’re prettymuch the same. =.= What do I expect from a vampire series! (slaps self).

The beginning was alittle annoying but as the story progressed so did the action and thecharacters and I’m pretty sure after awhile I think I’ll start liking thisseries more and more.

Thanks for theorganizers for allowing me to read and review these books. I’m grateful. <3

Author Bio:

Katie Salidas is a Super Woman! Endowed with special powers and abilities, beyond those of mortal women, She can get the munchkin off to gymnastics, cheerleading, Girl Scouts, and swim lessons. She can put hot food on the table for dinner while assisting with homework, baths, and bedtime… And, She still finds the time to keep the hubby happy (nudge nudge wink wink). She can do all of this and still have time to write.

And if you can believe all of those lies, there is some beautiful swamp land in Florida for sale…

Katie Salidas resides in Las Vegas, Nevada. Mother, wife, and author, she does try to do it all, often causing sleep deprivation and many nights passed out at the computer. Writing books is her passion, and she hopes that her passion will bring you hours of entertainment.

Website / Facebook / LinkedIn / Twitter

Quick Review: Rock 'N' Roll is Undead (Veronica Mason #1) by Rose Pressey

2012-01-28T13:56:00.000+03:00

(Click image for goodreads page)
Title: Rock 'N' Roll is Undead (Veronica Mason #1)
Author: Rose Pressey
Started: 24/1/12
Finished: 28/1/12
Medium: eBook for Review from Author
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy

Goodreads Synopsis:

Veronica Mason, lead singer of the rockabilly band The Voodoo Zombies, discovers her vampire bass player staked through the heart. A vision of the murder flashes in Veronica's mind and she wonders if she's going bonkers. Up until now her supernatural skills consisted of a few botched love spells.
Using her sexy voice and pin-up style has paid off, she's about to land a record deal. But suspicion soon turns to her when another vampire turns up as nothing more than a pile of ashes a vacuum would have a hard time sucking up. Veronica has to hone her paranormal powers or lose her dealand possibly her life.

When an utterly delicious mystery man steps in as the new bass player, Veronica can't figure out if he's there to help or cause more problems. What she does know is she can't resist his good looks and sex appeal. She wonders if they'd make rockin' music together. But helping the undead could stop her from finding out and leave Veronica dead permanently.

Rose Pressey vividly drew the rockabilly scene into these virtual pages so brilliantly. Her writing style was unique so was the story itself. New characters, unique scenarios, hot men, vampires, witches and the whole Paranormal lot. As much as I'd like to say, I haven't heard something like this before, I can't. I can't really blame Pressey for this. Its really hard to write something new now-a-days.

On the upside, I really liked Veronica, she isn't annoying, overwhelming, weak or the strong witted heroines that I find overrated. I connected with her in my own way and I totally loved the same guy she does. Buzz is hawt and all too irresistible. I loved the intensely new scene into this eBook. Its a different.

If you're the type, who loves your everyday fun, quirky, easy paranormal fix. This is a book for you. Not as unputdownable as I would like it to be. But it was a fix! xD

Quick Review: The Darkest Night (Lords of the Underworld #1) by Gena Showalter

2012-01-24T22:54:00.001+03:00

(Click image for goodreads page)
Title: The Darkest Night (Lords of the Underworld #1)
Author: Gena Showalter
Started: 19/1/12
Finished: 23/1/12
Medium: Paperback
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy
Buy: Amazon / The Book Depository (23% off) / Barnes & Noble

Goodreads Synopsis:

His powers -- Inhuman
His passion -- Beyond immortal . . .

All her life, Ashlyn Darrow has been tormented by voices from the past. To end the nightmare, she has come to Budapest seeking help from men rumored to have supernatural abilities, not knowing she'll be swept into the arms of Maddox, their most dangerous member -- a man trapped in a hell of his own.

Neither can resist the instant hunger than calms their torments . . . and ignites an irresistible passion. But every heated touch and burning kiss will edge them closer to destruction -- and a soul-shattering test of love...

I finished this book yesterday (I think) and WOW! Okay, don't get my wrong and all but the romance in this book was kind of corny and toooo lovey dovey for me BUT I can't complain because I really love the whole evil falls in love with the good, etc. An extra plus for me is the steamy s** and all the hot men. Damn! Can this book be any satisfying! O.O Okay... that sounded wrong. But you get what I mean.

Forgive me for my unformal review. I just can't help it. The book was just THAT good. Maybe not as good as the Blackdagger Brotherhood but it was still good.

Conclusion: It was quick-ish, fun, serious, steamy, hot, romantic alllll rolled into one book and if you're fans of the BDB Series you'll love this one! Now, I have to strategize how I'll be getting the other books. (hmm).

Review: Bound (Arelia LaRue #1) by Kira Saito

2012-01-24T22:02:00.000+03:00

(Click image for goodreads page)
Title: Bound (Arelia LaRue #1)
Author: Kira Saito
Started: 15/1/12
Finished: 22/1/12
Medium: eBook from Author
Genre: Young Adult: Paranormal Romance
Buy: Smashwords / Amazon

Goodreads Synopsis:

Sixteen year old Arelia LaRue lives in New Orleans where the music is loud, voodoo queens inhabit every street corner, and the ghosts are alive and well. Despite her surroundings, all she wants is to help her Grand-mere Bea pay the rent and save up for college.

When her best friend Sabrina convinces her to take a well-paying summer job at the infamous Darkwood plantation, owned by the wealthy LaPlante family, Arelia agrees.

However, at Darkwood strange things start to happen, and gorgeous Lucus LaPlante insists that he needs her help. Soon, the powers that Arelia has been denying all her life, come out to play and she discovers mysteries about herself that she could have never imagined.

I was once looking around Bound's Goodreads pages and found a lot of mixed reviews about this book. What I found on Goodreads made me want to read and decide for myself and well I did! The good reviews I agree with the bad ones not so much. I don't really get why they didn't like it at all.

This is something new for me, especially in the Young Adult Genre, I've only read about voodoo in a non-ya book just that one time last year but never read a book solely based on a protagonist who's gifted with the powers of voodoo.

I didn't know why, but I really connected with Arelia. I don't know if its her courage, wittiness or her will to stay away from people (especially hot boys who are off-limits) or the fact that she's bestfriends with a snob. Okay, fine! I admit, I couldn't stand Sabrina (Arelia's Bestfriend). It amuses me to actually find such a character like her in a book. She made me laugh a few times at how badly conceited she is. I know a lot of people hate this book for her especially. But for me, I found it amusing. You've gotta love these type of people. Haha. I blame my endless patience for this point. The plot had its predictable bits but aside from that it was flowing, not too complex and all together good.

Overall, Bound was an excellent read about a different aspect of paranormalcy with unique intriguing characters, a wonderful plot and juicy man-candy. Gimme more now! :D

The Girl in the Box Blog Tour Wrap-Up

2012-01-23T23:24:00.002+03:00

Caitlin Shaughnessy, a Canadian journalist, discovers that Inez, a traumatized young Mayan woman originally from Guatemala, has killed Caitlin's psychoanalyst partner, Dr. Jerry Simpson. Simpson brought the girl, who may be autistic, back to Canada as an act of mercy and to attempt to treat her obvious trauma. Cailin desperately needs to find out why this terrible incident occurred so she can find the strength to forgive and move on with her life.
Inez, whose sense of wonder and innocence touches all who meet her, becomes a focal point for many of the Canadians who encounter her. As Caitlin struggles to uncover the truth about Inez's relationship with Jerry, Inez struggles to break free of the projections of others. Each must confront her own anger and despair. The doctors in the north have an iciness that matches their surroundings, a kind of clinical armour that Caitlin must penetrate if she is to reach Inez.
The Girl in the Box is a psychological drama of the highest order and a gripping tale of intrigue and passion.

Sheila Dalton on: Goodreads | Website

Hellllooo wonderful followers! I've been hosting The Girl in the Box Blog Tour this month and had fun reading all the wonderful and interesting guestposts Sheila has written and the reviews other book bloggers posted up. I'd like to share with you all I've read below! ENJOY!

9.1.2012 - Unputdownable Books - Review

10.1.2012 - Beyond Words - Guestpost

11.1.2012 - WORD! From Cyber-Chicago - Review + Guestpost

12.1.2012 - Jess Resides Here - Excerpt + Guestpost

13.1.2012 - Michelle Fayard - Guestpost

14.1.2012 - JJ iReads - Interview + Review

15.1.2012 - FREE

16.1.2012 - Writers & Authors - Guestpost

17.1.2012 - Buried Under Books - Guestpost

18.1.2012 - FREE

19.1.2012 - Tolystoy is My Cat - Guestpost + Excerpt

20.1.2012 - YA-aholic - Guestpost + Giveaway

21.1.2012 - Booked-Up - Review

22.1.2012 - Unabridged Andra - Review

23.1.2012 - Melissa Electric Bookshelf - Guestpost

Thank you to all bloggers for joining in the blog tour! Thank you so much! Thanks to Sheila as well for writing such an amazing book and being just an awesome person. :D

In My Mailbox #38

2012-01-22T22:59:00.000+03:00

A weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren, where we post all books we have received where in the mail, bought or got from the library.

I got these from a few design jobs:

Tempest Rising (Jane True #1) by Nicole Peeler

Tempest Legacy (Jane True #2) by Nicole Peeler

City of Fallen Angels (The Immortal Instruments #4) by Cassandra Clare

Forever (Wolves of Mercy Falls #3) by Maggie Steifvater

And these from Authors/BlogTour Organizers:

Its not much but its something. :D I can't wait to read Griffin's Fire and start with the Jane True Series. :D Whats on your IMM this week? Let me know in the comment section below.

Blog Tour: Marissa Dobson's Top Five Anticipated Paranormal Books of 2012

2012-01-21T00:00:00.000+03:00

Synopsis:

Fate always knows when you're ready for love.
The past is catching up with Aspyn Layton. The father shenever knew passed away and she is left to deal with his estate. An unexpectedsnowstorm has her stranded at the one place she didn’t want to be—her father’shouse—with a naked man.
Damon Andrews has a secret, one he shared with Aspyn’sfather. He must convince Aspyn there is more to life then what she knows. Howwill she react when she finds out he is a mountain lion, and she is his mate?Their fates are intertwined.

The Top Five Paranormal books

I am looking forward to in 2012

Lover Reborn by J.R. Ward – I can’t get enough of this series.
Fourth Grave Right Beneath My Feet by Darynda Jones – I love this series. It is so different than a lot of what is on the book shelves now.
Once Burned (Night Prince, Book 1) by Jeaniene Frost
Wanted: Undead or Alive by Kerrelyn Sparks – I love Phineas and I can’t wait for him to have his own story.
Mate Claimed by Jennifer Ashley – I just finished reading Wild Cat and now I can’t wait to read Cassidy’s brother, Eric’s story.

Now that you heard the top 5 I am waiting for. What are the books you are waiting for?

Born and raised inthe Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area, I now reside about an hour from Washington,D.C. I am a lady who likes to keep busy, and am always busy doing something.With two different college degrees, I believe you are never done learning.
Being the first daughter to an avid reader, this gave me theadvantage of learning to read at a young age. Since learning to read I havealways had my nose in a book. It wasn't until I was a teenager that I startedwriting down the stories I came up with.

I am blessed with a wonderful supportive husband, Thomas. Heis my other half and allows me to stay home and pursue my writing. My writingbuddies Max (a cocker spaniel) and Dawne (a beagle mix) are always around tolisten to me bounce ideas off them. They might not be able to answer, but theyare helpful in their own ways.

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Ruby Lioness Press / Kindle / Smashwords

Thanks for this awesome list Marissa! I'm also looking forward to Once Burned as well. Hope you get these soon! :D

Author Interview: Lori Pescatore, Author of the Blend Series

2012-01-20T14:59:00.000+03:00

Author Bio: A preschool teacher by day and a wife & mom by night. Although I love all of these titles, I can now add published author to the list of things I can consider myself. I was proud the day I got married, I was proud the day I gave birth to each of my boys, (now grown men) and I was proud when I got my certification to teach. My newest accomplishment in being a published author is my latest proud moment. Writing all my life for fun, family and friends, creating my own story and original characters has been a wonderful journey, one I hope is long lived.

Human Blend is the first of a trilogy of books in the romance/fantasy/science fiction genre. It is what I love to read and what I love to write. Earth Blend is the second in the series and was just released. The final installment, Terminal Blend is due out early summer 2012.

Facebook / Twitter (@Preteach99) / Goodreads / Linked In / Shelfari

1. Do you find it hard to come up with something new to write about?

I did not find it hard to come up with something new, I have so many ideas floating around in my head.The real problem is having the time to get get them written. The clock is not my friend.

2. Why did you start writing?

I have been writing most of my life either for myself or friends. I was writing fan fiction long before the Internet. I think when I began reading books and thinking about how I would have written the scene differently, that gave me the idea to write one that was all my own.

3. 5 Random Facts about yourself.

Number one: I'm the youngest of six children
Number two: I married at the ripe old age of 19
Number three: I drive a Black 2008 Ford Mustang GT
Number four: I've been working at the same school for 15 years.
Number five: I have a calico cat named Tiny. She does not live up to her name. :)

4. Current Read.

Devour by Shelly Crane

5. Do you always connect with the characters you write about?

Absolutely. I think if I don't the readers would be able to tell. They are in my head, everyone of them, good or evil. I may not always agree or like the choices they make but there is a thread that connects me to them.

6. What is your biggest challenge when writing?

Time. My kids are all grown and my husband works long hours so I am not disturbed, but I do work and between that and taking care of the house, I do seem to loose track. When I do take the time, it flows generously.

7. When you're not writing what do you do?

My son and I both like Japanese Anime, so we do like to spend time watching different shows. I also work part time as a preschool teacher. Reading is also another enjoyment. That's how it starts. I love to read.

8. Will you be writing outside of the YA genre in the future?

Not anytime soon. I am currently working on the final book in The Blend Series and have another book already started which will also be a young adult genre. I love writing young adults because they are fearless and anything can happen. Makes for interesting stories.
Anything else to Add? How bout market your book and tell the audience why they should pick up Human Blend & Earth Blend.

The Blend Series is different from other fantasy young adult novels. In Human Blend I introduce a new type of fantasy creature that has never been written about before. Come read and see for yourself. In Earth Blend I give some more background information on the creation of these creatures and what happens next is pretty exciting. Thanks you Naj for allowing me to be featured on your wonderful blog.

Thank YOU Lori, for stopping by and answering my many questions!

Review: Queen of The Dead (Ghost & The Goth #2) by Stacey Kade

2012-01-20T12:01:00.000+03:00

(Click image for goodreads page)
Title: Queen of the Dead (Ghost & The Goth #2)
Author: Stacey Kade
Started: 14/1/12
Finished: 16/1/12
Medium: Hardbound
Genre: Young Adult: Paranormal Romance
Buy: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / The Book Depository

I started this very excited but as I read further. I didn't feel that excitement anymore. It wasn't what I expected, though the book was still good but not as good as the first book.

Will meets new people, who might have a link to his father and tries to find out more and in the process of this his link with Alona weakens. Alona, became desperate at some point in the book and she started doing impulsive and foolish things which annoyed me and can totally be avoided but no. She had to do something stupid.

Will established new found enemies and this made the installment more intriguing than the first. I think I might have enjoyed the first book more because it was more on the romance while this one has more of plot. Haha.

Ghost & the Goth series is definitely growing and this installment articulates and clarifies that this series has more of a plot and depth, while the first book was pretty weak in it. I'm sure those readers who said the first book was plotless will get a better taste with Ghost and The Goth #2 than me.

Cover Reveal: Shadow of the Witten Weiven by Debbie Peterson

2012-01-18T10:42:00.002+03:00

Shadow of the Witte Wieven
by Debbie Peterson

Synopsis:
Despite a contract on her head, lone Drug Enforcement Agent, Aliyana Montijo must ferret out a mole and stop the assassination of top DEA officials, as so ordered by the Colombian drug lord she seeks to take down. The task is a daunting one, for there is no one she can trust. No one that is, until she encounters a most unlikely ally.

Former seventeenth century captain of the Dutch West Indies Company, Wolfaert Dircksen Van Ness, now from a parallel dimension, encounters the beautiful agent during an unearthly storm in the Bermuda triangle. Drawn to the Spanish beauty he rescues, he pledges his assistance, despite her reluctance to accept either his help or his heart.

Can Wolf bridge both space and time to claim the woman he loves?

What do you guys think of this Urban Fantasy? I think it'll be gooood. I can't wait to get a copy. :D I just looove the cover. ;P

More info here.

Cove Reveal: Punished (Arelia LaRue #2) by Kira Saito

2012-01-18T10:26:00.001+03:00

Punished (Arelia LaRue #2)
by Kira Saito

I can't find the synopsis just yet. :D I don't think Kira has one up just yet. Punished is the second book of the Arelia LaRue series.

You can find more on the series here.

What do you think of the cover? Doesn't it look great?

Excerpt: Ride with Me by Ruthie Knox

2012-01-17T17:07:00.004+03:00

Click me to check out where you can buy the book

Synopsis: In this fun, scorching-hot eBook original romance by Ruthie Knox, a cross-country bike adventure takes a detour into unexplored passion. As readers will discover, Ride with Me is not about the bike!

When Lexie Marshall places an ad for a cycling companion, she hopes to find someone friendly and fun to cross the TransAmerica Trail with. Instead, she gets Tom Geiger—a lean, sexy loner whose bad attitude threatens to spoil the adventure she’s spent years planning.

Roped into the cycling equivalent of a blind date by his sister, Tom doesn’t want to ride with a chatty, go-by-the-map kind of woman, and he certainly doesn’t want to want her. Too bad the sight of Lexie with a bike between her thighs really turns his crank.

Even Tom’s stubborn determination to keep Lexie at a distance can’t stop a kiss from leading to endless nights of hotter-than-hot sex. But when the wild ride ends, where will they go next?

Includes a special message from the editor, as well as excerpts from these Loveswept titles: In the Arms of the Law, Ivy Secrets, and Because of You.

Scribd.Ride With Me Excerpt - by author Ruthie Knox

ENJOY!

Quick Review: The Vampire Relationship Guide: Secrets and Trust (Vampire Relationship Guide #2) by Evelyn Lafont

2012-01-15T22:03:00.002+03:00

(Click image for goodreads page)
Title: The Vampire Relationship Guide: Secrets and Trust (Vampire Relationship Guide #2)
Author: Evelyn Lafont
Started: 15/1/12
Finished: 15/1/12
Medium: eBook
Genre: Urban Fantasy

Goodreads Synopsis:

Josie’s come a long way from being an average human chick who just wants to sex-up a vampire. She’s dated, mated, and killed one of the world’s richest vamps and is currently seeing a mysterious, blood-slurping hottie named Walker.

Now, Josie must adjust to the realities of a steady relationship with a vampire, which isn’t all exciting parties, hot sex and moonlit walks. And with a vamp who’s anxious to push their relationship to the next phase as mortality bears down on his human’s fragile body, the pressure for Josie to commit is on.

Can their night-day romance survive leaving Josie’s character and individuality intact, or will the secrets of the supernatural community crush her spirit and her chance at a permanent vampire mate?

WARNING: This is not your regular paranormal romance. This series explores the realities (such as they might be) of humans having relationships with vampires and uses a chick lit style to get there. Oh yeah–and the characters within are fallible and not entirely heroic.

When I won this book I was ecstatic, when I got it from the author was overwhelmed, when I started sending it to my kindle I was restless! And I really wanted to read it because the first book was soooo good. Unfortunately due to me being some blog tours, I had to prioritize other eBooks. But when I started this I didn't stop until I finished it.

Honestly, it wasn't as good as the first one BUT it was hilarious! I loved how much this installment made me laugh. Oh and the steamy sex was wonderful. Walker is sooo hot. Even though it was a turn off that he lived somewhere I didn't expect at all and was kind of a coach potato until called out to work.

If you're looking for a steamy, fun, hilarious, and a somewhat chick-litish one-sitting read. VRG series is your best choice. Josie x Walker ALLLLLLL THE WAY!

In My Mailbox #37

2012-01-14T22:13:00.000+03:00

A weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren, where we post all books we have received where in the mail, bought or got from the library.

In the mail last week:

Butterflies, Flowers Vol 8. by Yuki Yoshihara

Act like a Lady, Think like a man by Steve Harvey

Carpe Corpus by Rachel Caine

Feast of Fools by Rachel Caine

Tempestuous by Lesley Livingston

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin

Intertwined by Gena Showalter

Unraveled by Gena Showalter

City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare

City of Glass by Cassandra Clare

On My Kindle (click cover to view on goodreads):

What did you guys get in your IMM?

Review: Juliet Immortal (Juliet Immortal #1) by Stacey Jay

2012-01-12T23:48:00.000+03:00

(Click image for goodreads page)
Title: Juliet Immortal (Juliet Immortal #1)
Author: Stacey Jay
Started: 10/1/12
Finished: 12/1/12
Medium: Hardback
Publisher: Delacorte Press
Genre: Young Adult: Paranormal Romance
Buy: Amazon / The Book Depository / Barnes & Noble

Goodreads Synopsis:

The most tragic love story in history . . .
Juliet Capulet didn't take her own life. She was murdered by the person she trusted most, her new husband, Romeo Montague, a sacrifice made to ensure his own immortality. But what Romeo didn't anticipate was that Juliet would be granted eternity, as well, and would become an agent for the Ambassadors of Light. For 700 years, she's fought Romeo for the souls of true lovers, struggling to preserve romantic love and the lives of the innocent. Until the day she meets someone she's forbidden to love, and Romeo, oh Romeo, will do everything in his power to destroy that love.

"The greatest love story every told is a lie" that one sentence got me so intrigued that I picked up the book and read Juliet Immortal. I am so glad that who every thought of that line put it right in front of the cover to tempt me into picking up this book.

I've never thought I'd be one of those readers who'll love retelling, basically because I've never read one. But now that I have. I'm definitely loving how it started out for me. I never put in much thought into Romeo and Juliet's story. The only time I was so fixated on it was just to sound romantic while speaking in Shakespearean talk with my friends and when I watched the movie Shakespeare In Love (I love that movie!).

Now, Juliet Immortal is so haunting with clear dark romance. Juliet is an immortal soul shifting from body to body to maintain true love for the Ambassadors of Light, while Romeo kills to sustain the Mercenaries of the Dark. They've been traveling for hundreds of years shifting and sustaining whatever sides they're on. Until they hit the end of their line.

As I've read, many retellings have been bad-mouthed and called bad. But this one. Isn't. This is finally a story that is unique, and all kinds of original (despite it being based on Romeo and Juliet, of course). Stacey Jay managed to recreate a story so beautifully with characters with realistic flaws and good qualities. Some characters were down right annoying but you learn to like them for their own flaws and such. I didn't feel that the plot was weak, the characters were bad or anything like that. I really loved this book, come on! It was fabulous! Don't listen to all those bad reviews. Just read it before you judge based on other peoples preferences.

Juliet Immortal is an excellent take on Romeo and Juliet's story. It was haunting, dark, somewhat morbid with all kinds of romance in between. A great read for the hopeless romantics and those readera who'd like to see Romeo without Juliet for once.

Blog Tour (Alpha's Past) : Guestpost by Carrie Ann Ryan

2012-01-11T14:03:00.000+03:00

Finding the Balance in your Hero

Do you like your heroes rough or smooth? Classy or ragged? Does it matter? Yes and no. I think it depends on what you’re in the mood for – and what your heroine needs. If your heroine is classy and ice, she may need a rugged hero with a scarred soul to break through her tight exterior. If your heroine is hurt herself, she may need that smooth gentleman to be by her side as she picks herself up.

Or all of these may mix and match and you never know. In all honesty, what the heroine needs from her hero – and now what she thinks she needs – is what she’ll get in an amazing romance story.

And that’s why I love romance. You get your HEAs – sometimes with a price. But it’s worth it.

But how do you balance your hero?

Too smooth and classy and he comes off as an arrogant ass. You need the man to be able to roll up his sleeves at the end of the day and help his heroine or do what needs to be done. You need that icy glint in their eye that tells the reader that something deeper and far more sexy and dangerous lurks beneath. Roarke from the In Death series comes to mind when I write this. *sigh*

Too rugged and he comes off like an arrogant ass. Do we see a common theme here? We need the man who will get dirty, make mistakes and be an arrogant alpha male. I’m thinking Curran from the Kate Daniels series here. *sigh*

Kade, my Alpha male, is a bit of both. He’s a century old werewolf who’s sexy as hell. He works with his hands and crafts homes as an architect. But he can prowl across the room on two legs in an elegant suit and make my heroine – Melanie – forget everything bad she ever said about the male species. You need a balance in a hero. Every heroine gets what she needs from her hero – and Mel is no exception.

Synopsis:

Melanie is a twenty-five year old chemist who has spent all of her adult life slaving at school. With her PhD in hand, she's to start her dream job, but before she does, her friend persuades her to relax and try to live again. A blind date set up through her friends seems like the perfect solution. Melanie can take one night away from the lab and let her inner vixen out on a fixed blind date - a chance to get crazy with a perfect stranger. The gorgeous hunk she's to meet exceeds her wildest dreams – be he is more than what he appears and Melanie's analytical mind goes into overdrive.

Kade, a slightly older werewolf (at over one hundred years), needs a night way from the Pack. Too many responsibilities and one near miss with a potential mate made Kade hide in his work, the only peace he can find. His brother convinces him to meet the sexy woman for a one night of fun. What could it hurt? But when he finds this woman could be his mate, can he convince her to leave her orderly, sane world and be with him and his wolf-half, for life?

Carrie Ann Ryan is a paranormal and contemporary romance author. Her first book, An Alpha's Path, is the first book in her Redwood Pack series. She's also an avid reader and lover of romance and fiction novels. She love meeting new authors and new worlds. Any recommendations you have are appreciated. Carrie Ann lives in New England with her husband and two kittens.

Carrie Ann loves hearing from readers. You can find her at:

Website and Blog / Facebook Author Page / Facebook Friend

Twitter: @CarrieAnnRyan

Thank you Carrie for this awesome guestpost! I totally have the hots for Kade, now!

Waiting on Wednesday #22

2012-01-11T11:50:00.002+03:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday spotlights upcoming releases that everyone's excited about (created by Jill at Breaking The Spine.)

Well, I haven't done this in awhile. Time to start again! :D

I can't wait for this one! A merman! Yay! :D

Goodreads Synopsis:
Calder White lives in the cold, clear waters of Lake Superior, the only brother in a family of murderous mermaids. To survive, Calder and his sisters prey on humans, killing them to absorb their energy. But this summer the underwater clan targets Jason Hancock out of pure revenge. They blame Hancock for their mother's death and have been waiting a long time for him to return to his family's homestead on the lake. Hancock has a fear of water, so to lure him in, Calder sets out to seduce Hancock's daughter, Lily. Easy enough—especially as Calder has lots of practice using his irresistable good looks and charm on ususpecting girls. Only this time Calder screws everything up: he falls for Lily—just as Lily starts to suspect that there's more to the monsters-in-the-lake legends than she ever imagined. And just as his sisters are losing patience with him.

Hellooooo Mr. Hottie Prince. Okay, I may be shallow sometimes but thats mostly because all these authors make their leading men so irresistable!

Goodreads Synopsis:

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.

Whats on your WoW this week?

Quick Review: One Grave at a Time (Night Huntress #6) by Jeaniene Frost

2012-01-10T17:02:00.003+03:00

(Click image for goodreads page)
Title: One Grave at a Time (Night Huntress #6)
Author: Jeaniene Frost
Started: 7/1/12
Finished: 10/1/12
Medium: Paperback
Publisher: Avon
Genre: Urban Fantasty/Paranormal
Buy: Amazon / The Book Depository / Barnes & Noble

Goodreads Synopsis:
The grave is one wrong step away.

Having narrowly averted an (under)world war, Cat Crawfield wants nothing more than a little downtime with her vampire husband, Bones. Unfortunately, her gift from New Orleans' voodoo queen just keeps on giving--leading to a personal favor that sends them into battle once again, this time against a villainous spirit.

Centuries ago, Heinrich Kramer was a witch hunter. Now, every All Hallows Eve, he takes physical form to torture innocent women before burning them alive. This year, however, a determined Cat and Bones must risk all to send him back to the other side of eternity--forever. But how do you kill a killer who's already long dead?

Yet another wonderful installment to the Night Huntress series. Though, I'm starting to feel the detachment to the series like other fans. The fact that this installment wasn't as good as the last few installments, probably triggered it. The story was kind of dragging for me a little.

But Frost made up for it with a few entertaining new characters. My favorite would be Tyler and his snarky comments about the hot vampire trio (Ian, Spade and Bones). He is so gay and I love it. He made me laugh so hard! Almost as much as Ian used to, scratch that! Ian still makes me laugh. You wait until you get to the end of the book. :D

After seeing Ian again in this one, I felt bad for him because hes all alone. When is Frost going to write about his story? Aside from putting him in a novella. :( Poor thing needs some major love.

All in all, this 6th book wasn't as good as the first 5 and was missing something, but it still held its own manageable qualities. And to tell you the truth, I can't get enough of Cat and Bones' story. :D I can't wait for Vlad's in Once Burned.

Cover Reveal: Entangled by Nikki Jefford

2012-01-09T20:46:00.003+03:00

Entangled by Nikki Jefford
a fresh new YA Paranormal Romance!

A Resurrection Spell Gone Wrong

Two months after dying, Graylee Perez wakes up in her identical twin sister, Charlene’s body.

As the daughter of a witch, can anyone blame her mother for attempting to bring her back to life? Only now Gray’s stuck sharing her sister’s body 50/50 in 24 hour shifts.

The race is on for Gray to find a way back into her body before Charlene purges her from existence.

Warlock Raj McKenna is rumored to meddle in the black arts, not to mention he’s after Gray’s invisibility spell and worse – her heart. But Raj might be the only one powerful enough to save Gray from fading away forever.

I was working with Nikki on this cover and the story behind it is amazing! And I simply wanted to share this wonderful new series with my wonderful followers.

You can find more on this cover design here. Also visit Nikki here. What do you guys think of the synopsis? I think its pretty different! Let me know what you guys think in the comment section below.

Blog Tour: Review: The Girl in the Box by Sheila Dalton

2012-01-09T08:00:00.000+03:00

Today is the start of The Girl in the Box Blog Tour! This is a literary fiction so not many of you may be interested. But this was an excellent book. Read on!

Title: The Girl in the Box
Author: Sheila Dalton
Started: 22/12/11
Finished: 23/12/11
Buy: Amazon / Amazon 2

Synopsis:

Caitlin Shaughnessy, a Canadian journalist, discovers that Inez, a traumatized young Mayan woman originally from Guatemala, has killed Caitlin's psychoanalyst partner, Dr. Jerry Simpson. Simpson brought the girl, who may be autistic, back to Canada as an act of mercy and to attempt to treat her obvious trauma. Cailin desperately needs to find out why this terrible incident occurred so she can find the strength to forgive and move on with her life.

Inez, whose sense of wonder and innocence touches all who meet her, becomes a focal point for many of the Canadians who encounter her. As Caitlin struggles to uncover the truth about Inez's relationship with Jerry, Inez struggles to break free of the projections of others. Each must confront her own anger and despair. The doctors in the north have an iciness that matches their surroundings, a kind of clinical armour that Caitlin must penetrate if she is to reach Inez.

The Girl in the Box is a psychological drama of the highest order and a gripping tale of intrigue and passion.

The Girl in the Box follows the story about Jerry Simpson, a Canadian psychoanalyst on vacation in Guatemala. He rescues Inez, a young Mayan girl who was chained and locked up in a windowless shed by her parents because they believed there was an animal in her.

As a paranormal reader, I usually don’t read these types of literary psychological novels. And the biggest surprise is. I liked it. The novel was researched and written beautifully. It was somewhat dark, very realistic and definitely movie dram potential. It was written in different point of views, mostly focusing on Caitlin Shaughnessy, a Canadian journalist and life partner of Jerry.

Inez is mute, possibly autistic, and has murdered Jerry, and Caitlin does everything in her power to find out what really happened and in the process writes a book about it. The Girl in the Box follows leads of many different types of people that I found amazingly well written and narrated.

Dalton is an amazing writer with skills way beyond any other author I have read and The Girl in the Box is a perfect specimen to showcase her epic skills that left me enlightened. This is definitely a read for the fiction lovers but not for the paranormal young adult readers.

NEXT STOP: Beyond Words Blog

In My Mailbox #36 (Autographed Books! Yay!)

2012-01-08T14:01:00.001+03:00

A weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren, where we post all books we have received where in the mail, bought or got from the library.

I bought:

I went out to a sale bazaar yesterday morning and to my surprise I found 2 books from the Luxe series for like .500 fils which is equivalent to a dollar and a half. :D Wonderful bargain! I still need to get the second book though. O.O

Luxe (Luxe #1) by Anna Godbersen

Envy (Luxe #2) by Anna Godbersen

I won:

This is a fab way to end the year. :D I won a bag, swag and an autographed book from Dani Harper which I won from the Ambers over at the AwesomeSauce BookClub (They're amazing! Go check them out)! Its supeeer awesome! I'm soooo happy!

Changeling Dream by Dani Harper

What did you guys get?

Review: Chain Reaction (Perfect Chemistry #3) by Simone Elkeles

2012-01-07T00:32:00.002+03:00

(Click image for goodreads page)
Title: Chain Reaction (Perfect Chemistry #3)
Author: Simone Elkeles
Started: 4/1/12
Finished: 6/1/12
Medium: Hardbound
Publisher: Walker & Company
Genre: YA: Romance
Buy: Amazon / The Book Depository / Barnes & Noble

Goodreads Synopsis:

Luis Fuentes has always been sheltered from the gang violence that nearly destroyed his brothers’ lives. But that didn’t stop him from taking risks—whether he’s scaling a mountain in the Rockies or dreaming of a future as an astronaut, Luis can’t stop looking for the next thrill.

Nikki Cruz lives her life by three rules—boys lie to get their way, don’t trust a boy who says “I love you,” and never date a boy from the south side of Fairfield. Her parents may be from Mexico, but as a doctor’s daughter, she has more in common with her north-side neighbors than the Latino Blood at her school. Then she meets Luis at Alex’s wedding, and suddenly, she’s tempted to break all her rules.

Getting Nikki to take a chance on a southsider is Luis’s biggest challenge, until he finds himself targeted by Chuy Soto, the new head of the Latino Blood. When Chuy reveals a disturbing secret about Luis’s family, the youngest Fuentes finds himself questioning everything he’s ever believed to be true. Will his feelings for Nikki be enough to stop Luis from entering a dark and violent world and permanently living on the edge?

Waaaaaaaaah! I can't believe its over! I don't want it to end! Why is it the end?! Damn. I'm going to miss the Fuentes brothers. This series is the best reads I've had since Vampire Academy.

To be entirely honest, this installment wasn't as good as the first two. I'm a Team Carlos all the way. I'm guessing Simone lost some juice after writing the first two awesome books. :D But I don't mind. Reading about a Fuentes is good enough for me!

I took a little longer reading this part probably because I still saw Luis as an 11y/o instead of an 18y/o. He's the youngest Fuentes and I definitely just saw him as that.

As much as I would love to say that I liked Nikki all the way. I didn't much. Her feelings were conveyed confusingly and she did stupid things just to reassure herself she's not feeling what she's really feeling. I mean come on! Just be true to yourself. =.=

Overall, Luis is hot and Nikki and him are amazing together but the flare that was in the first 2 books weren't present in this installment. It didn't disappoint me as much as I thought it would. I think its purely because of how much Fuentes this book is filled with. Haha! Another plus is this book still managed to be a real page-turner!

Review: Rules of Attraction (Perfect Chemistry #2) by Simone Elkeles

2012-01-04T15:56:00.001+03:00

(Click image for goodreads page)
Title: Rules of Attraction (Perfect Chemistry #2)
Author: Simone Elkeles
Started: 2/1/12
Finished: 4/1/12
Medium: Paperback
Publisher: Walker & Company
Genre: YA: Romance
Buy: Amazon / The Book Depository / Barnes & Noble

Goodreads Synopsis:
When Carlos Fuentes returns to America after living in Mexico for a year, he doesn’t want any part of the life his older brother, Alex, has laid out for him at a high school in Colorado . Carlos likes living his life on the edge and wants to carve his own path—just like Alex did. Then he meets Kiara Westford. She doesn’t talk much and is completely intimidated by Carlos’ wild ways. As they get to know one another, Carlos assumes Kiara thinks she’s too good for him, and refuses to admit that she might be getting to him. But he soon realizes that being himself is exactly what Kiara needs right now.

Books like Rules of Attraction is bad for readers who have work, school and many other things to do in the morning. Rules of Attraction kept me up at night and I couldn't put it down, no matter how tired I was and just the fact that you're waiting for something romantic to happen between our amazing protagonists will definitely keep your eyes on these pages.

No matter how much I hated Carlos Fuentes in the beginning, he started warming up to me when his real side showed-up sometime later on. This Perfect Chemistry Novel isn't as gang related as the first book, but it was more real and surrounded around a not-so-normal teenage life as they try to get through senior year alive. Carlos, gets framed and arrested for drug possession in school and is put into a REACH program.

Like the novel before it. Rules of Attraction is an amazing and heart-warming romance thats all for the happy-endings! Though it ended rather quick, it was still extremely easy, fun, and sometimes funny read. The characters sarcasm and humor will light up whatever mood the reader is in and of course, a book is never a book without its plot. For sure it was there, though at times I forgot about it but Elkeles knows where to bring it in and when.

To sum it all up, Rules of Attraction is amazingly written, and a wonderful story that will satisfy our hopeless romantic side and our need to be entertained. 5/5 stars! I'm off to pick up the next Elkeles book I have.

Review: Perfect Chemistry (Perfect Chemistry #1) by Simone Elkeles

2012-01-02T12:22:00.001+03:00

(Click image for goodreads page)
Title: Perfect Chemistry (Perfect Chemistry #1)
Author: Simone Elkeles
Started: 1/1/12
Finished: 2/1/12
Medium: Paperback
Publisher: Walker & Company
Genre: YA: Romance
Buy: Amazon / The Book Depository / Barnes & Noble

Goodreads Synopsis:

A fresh, urban twist on the classic tale of star-crossed lovers.

When Brittany Ellis walks into chemistry class on the first day of senior year, she has no clue that her carefully created “perfect” life is about to unravel before her eyes. She’s forced to be lab partners with Alex Fuentes, a gang member from the other side of town, and he is about to threaten everything she's worked so hard for—her flawless reputation, her relationship with her boyfriend, and the secret that her home life is anything but perfect. Alex is a bad boy and he knows it. So when he makes a bet with his friends to lure Brittany into his life, he thinks nothing of it. But soon Alex realizes Brittany is a real person with real problems, and suddenly the bet he made in arrogance turns into something much more. In a passionate story about looking beneath the surface, Simone Elkeles breaks through the stereotypes and barriers that threaten to keep Brittany and Alex apart.

Perfect Chemistry is another one of those cliche storys about two races, their rivalry and how one person from each side falls in love with each other. Grease, West Side Story, Romeo and Juliet, and just plain old rich fall for the poor. One things for sure, EVERYONE loves the cliche even though they don't admit it. Come on! Some of the best things are cliche, hello... Vampires. Everyone should stop complaining about it being "cliche" and just admit that it was a FABULOUS cliche.

This book was beyond wonderful, it kept me up all night, and to tell you the truth, not many books have done that. This is my first read from Simone Elkeles and I was simply blown away. Her reputation of producing amazing contemporary romances is by far true!

Everything about this book seemed so real and true. Elkeles really went out there and researched about gangs, heir scenarios and how things work with them. She really kept this book by the book if you know what I mean.

Brittany and Alex are complex characters with major family problems. They're both striving to keep up an image. Brittany with her perfect life and Alex with his bad-boy-gang-not-so-perfect-life. They were both so real, and a reader can't help but feel like they really know them.

To sum it all up, Perfect Chemistry is that GOOD and is by far one of the best YA Romances I've read and the best way to start the new year! A guaranteed unputdownable book from Simone Elkeles.

2011 Wrap-Up

2012-01-01T14:10:00.000+03:00

2011 has been a wonderful year for reading and blogging! I made it to my 100th follower and post and even held my first giveaways. Below are my stats:

Read: 117 Books & 31,033 Pages

Posted: 323 Posts

2011 Challenges:

I haven't been linking up to the hosts lists for awhile. I can't seem to find their monthly wrap-up posts. Therefore, I gave up on it and just finished the challenges without linking back to the hosts after 6 months.

My goal was: 12 Debuts

I finished: 14/12 Debuts!

The list of books I've read is here.

My Goal: 40 YA Books

I finished: 40/64 Books

Check out my list of finished books here.

My Goal: 100 Books (not including Manga)

I finished: 111 Books (not including Manga)

Full list of Books read here.

My Goal: 60 Books

I finished: 111 Books (not including Manga)

Full list of Books read here.

My worst challenge!

My Goal: 12 Classics

I finished: 1/12 Classics

List of Reads here.

My Goal: 12 Books in a YA Series

I finished: 11/12 Books in a YA Series

(I stopped listing down the books after awhile. =.=

So I probably finished this challenge as well)

List of Reads here.

Best of 2011:

Best YA Horror: Darkhouse by Karina Halle

Best YA Romance: Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins

Best YA Paranormal: Released by Megan Duncan

Best YA Sci-Fi: I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore & Across the Universe by Beth Revis

Best YA Series: The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Best Urban Fantasy Series: The Night Huntress Series by Jeanienne Frost

Top 10 Book Covers of 2011

Top 10 Book Boyfriends of 2011

Top 10 Characters of 2011

CURRENT GIVEAWAY:

You can win:

Enter here.

What my Book Shelf looks like as of Early Dec 2011:

Review: Darkhouse (Experiment in Terror #1) by Karina Halle

2011-12-31T23:30:00.001+03:00

(Click image for goodreads page)
Title: Darkhouse (Experiment in Terror #1)
Author: Karina Halle
Started: 29/12/11
Finished: 31/12/11
Medium: Paperback (Review Copy)
Publisher: Metal Blonde Books
Genre: YA: Paranormal, Horror, Thriller
Buy: Amazon / The Book Depository / Barnes & Noble

Goodreads Synopsis: Enter the world of the highly-acclaimed Experiment in Terror Series by visiting...the Darkhouse:

There’s always been something a bit off about Perry Palomino. Though she’s been dealing with a quarter-life crisis and post-college syndrome like any other twenty-something, she’s still not what you would call “ordinary.” For one thing, there’s her past which she likes to pretend never happened, and then there’s the fact that she sees ghosts. Luckily for her, that all comes in handy when she stumbles across Dex Foray, an eccentric producer for an upcoming webcast on ghost hunters. Even though the show’s budget is non-existent and Dex himself is a maddening enigma, Perry is instantly drawn into a world that both threatens her life and seduces her with a sense of importance. Her uncle’s haunted lighthouse provides the perfect catalyst and backdrop for a mystery that unravels the threads of Perry’s fragile sanity and causes her to fall for a man, who, like the most dangerous of ghosts, may not be all that he seems.

Oh my freaking God! Why did I take so long to pick up this book?

The entire time I was reading this book, I felt as if I was watching an episode of a brand new series. Now, I can't wait to read the next installments.

The plot is amazing, like 5-star amazing. I love ghost stories and EVERYTHING paranormal so this book is totally within my league and the fact that the book kept me on my toes and thrilled and eventually scared me as well, makes this book even better!

The characters are realistic. They're people who have/had problems. Dex has a split personality which kind of scares me a bit and Perry is hilarious, was a druggie back in highschool, and just got out of college and is striving to go on day-to-day as a receptionist. Oh and she can see ghosts too. The way Halle describes what Perry sees is extremely descriptive and fluid, that you can't help but be where Perry is. The secondary characters on the other hand, help keep the story together. Matt and Tony were one of my favs. Those twins were hilarious and just plain old weird. They kind of reminded me of my brother, minus the drinking and whatever else they do thats "bad".

Now, Perry has the hots for Dex and we don't know how Dex feels about her because he has a girlfriend who is immensely hot and he is also 10 years older. Not only is Perry insecure, but feels like a child around him and sometimes a psycho. I love the push and pull that happens between the two. It keeps the situation realistic.

Overall, Darkhouse is amazing. Halle has delivered to the public such an incredible book that is definitely movie/series-worthy. I just want to keep reading until there isn't anything else left to read from the series. The narrative was written well, the descriptions were vivid and the plot is 5-star amazing. A brilliant unputdownable book from Karina Halle that'll definitely rock your socks off!

Quick Review: Vampire Blues (Lian and Figg #2) by Stephany Simmons

2011-12-31T22:08:00.000+03:00

(Click image for goodreads page)

Title: Vampire Blues (Lian and Figg #2)
Author: Stephany Simmons
Started: 29/12/11
Finished: 31/12/11
Medium: eBook
Publisher: Self-Published
Genre: Urban Fantasy

Goodreads Synopsis: Lian and Figg are still recovering from events that almost destroyed their lives, but when a good friend comes to them with a serious problem, they can't turn him away. Soon, Lian and Figg are neck-deep in local vampire politics and framed for a massacre they had little to do with. On top of that, the local werewolf pack is sniffing around, looking for favors.

As soon as Stephany (the author) sent me an email about reading and reviewing the sequel to the series. I was ecstatic and immediately accepted and the second I got the eBook, I sent it to my kindle and started reading it. I would have finished it in one sitting but work had gotten in the way of it.

This little novella is a perfect mix of everything a reader loves in an urban fantasy novel but in mini form. I don't know how Stephany managed to write about so many happenings in so little pages. I am AMAZED.

The story line this time is surrounded around vampires and vampire politics. It was nice to read Simmons' take on vampires. It sure wasn't the usual cliches.

Loads of new characters have joined us in this installment. I found most of them amiable enough for me to hope there will be more of them mentioned in the upcoming installments and overall, Vampire Blues, is another awesome mini-novel from Stephany Simmons. It was fun, sexy, and had a great plot that was so fluid and amazingly written. Oh and Lian is HAWT! I want more of him NOW! *demands*

Top 10 Books I can't wait for in 2012

2011-12-30T16:29:00.001+03:00

This running from the 26th -30th of December. Its hosted by A Life Bound By Books, Rachel from Fiktshun, Jaime & Patricia from Two Chicks on Books & Confessions of a Bookaholic.

TOP 10 BOOKS I CAN'T WAIT FOR IN 2012

So far I've read:

115 Books

30710 Pages

322 Blog Posts this year! :D

1. Once Burned

by Jeaniene Frost

Goodreads

She’s a mortal with dark powers...

After a tragic accident scarred her body and destroyed her dreams, Leila never imagined that the worst was still to come: terrifying powers that let her channel electricity and learn a person’s darkest secrets through a single touch. Leila is doomed to a life of solitude... until creatures of the night kidnap her, forcing her to reach out with a telepathic distress call to the world’s most infamous vampire...

He’s the Prince of Night...

Vlad Tepesh inspired the greatest vampire legend of all — but whatever you do, don’t call him Dracula. Vlad’s ability to control fire makes him one of the most feared vampires in existence, but his enemies have found a new weapon against him – a beautiful mortal with powers to match his own. When Vlad and Leila meet, however, passion ignites between them, threatening to consume them both. It will take everything that they are to stop an enemy intent on bringing them down in flames.

2. Article 5
by Kristen Simmons
Goodreads

New York, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C., have been abandoned.
The Bill of Rights has been revoked, and replaced with the Moral Statutes.
There are no more police—instead, there are soldiers. There are no more fines for bad behavior—instead, there are arrests, trials, and maybe worse. People who get arrested usually don't come back.
Seventeen-year-old Ember Miller is old enough to remember that things weren’t always this way. Living with her rebellious single mother, it’s hard for her to forget that people weren’t always arrested for reading the wrong books or staying out after dark. It’s hard to forget that life in the United States used to be different.
Ember has perfected the art of keeping a low profile. She knows how to get the things she needs, like food stamps and hand-me-down clothes, and how to pass the random home inspections by the military. Her life is as close to peaceful as circumstances allow.

That is, until her mother is arrested for noncompliance with Article 5 of the Moral Statutes. And one of the arresting officers is none other than Chase Jennings…the only boy Ember has ever loved.

3. Cursed
by Jennifer L. Armentrout
Goodreads

Dying sucks--and high school senior Ember McWilliams knows firsthand. After a fatal car accident, her gifted little sister brought her back. Now anything Ember touches dies. And that, well, really blows.

Ember operates on a no-touch policy with all living things--including boys. When Hayden Cromwell shows up, quoting Oscar Wilde and claiming her curse is a gift, she thinks he’s a crazed cutie. But when he tells her he can help control it, she’s more than interested. There’s just one catch: Ember has to trust Hayden's adopted father, a man she's sure has sinister reasons for collecting children whose abilities even weird her out. However, she’s willing to do anything to hold her sister's hand again. And hell, she'd also like to be able to kiss Hayden. Who wouldn't?

But when Ember learns the accident that turned her into a freak may not've been an accident at all, she’s not sure who to trust. Someone wanted her dead, and the closer she gets to the truth, the closer she is to losing not only her heart, but her life. For real this time.

4. Incarnate
by Jodi Meadows
Goodreads

NEWSOUL
Ana is new. For thousands of years in Range, a million souls have been reincarnated over and over, keeping their memories and experiences from previous lifetimes. When Ana was born, another soul vanished, and no one knows why.

NOSOUL
Even Ana’s own mother thinks she’s a nosoul, an omen of worse things to come, and has kept her away from society. To escape her seclusion and learn whether she’ll be reincarnated, Ana travels to the city of Heart, but its citizens are suspicious and afraid of what her presence means. When dragons and sylph attack the city, is Ana to blame?

HEART
Sam believes Ana’s new soul is good and worthwhile. When he stands up for her, their relationship blooms. But can he love someone who may live only once, and will Ana’s enemies—human and creature alike—let them be together? Ana needs to uncover the mistake that gave her someone else’s life, but will her quest threaten the peace of Heart and destroy the promise of reincarnation for all?

Jodi Meadows expertly weaves soul-deep romance, fantasy, and danger into an extraordinary tale of new life.

5. Slide
by Jill Hathaway
Goodreads

Vee Bell is certain of one irrefutable truth—her sister’s friend Sophie didn’t kill herself. She was murdered.

Vee knows this because she was there. Everyone believes Vee is narcoleptic, but she doesn’t actually fall asleep during these episodes: When she passes out, she slides into somebody else’s mind and experiences the world through that person’s eyes. She’s slid into her sister as she cheated on a math test, into a teacher sneaking a drink before class. She learned the worst about a supposed “friend” when she slid into her during a school dance. But nothing could have prepared Vee for what happens one October night when she slides into the mind of someone holding a bloody knife, standing over Sophie’s slashed body.

Vee desperately wishes she could share her secret, but who would believe her? It sounds so crazy that she can’t bring herself to tell her best friend, Rollins, let alone the police. Even if she could confide in Rollins, he has been acting off lately, more distant, especially now that she’s been spending more time with Zane.

Enmeshed in a terrifying web of secrets, lies, and danger and with no one to turn to, Vee must find a way to unmask the killer before he or she strikes again.

6. The Golden Lily
by Richelle Mead
Goodreads

The second thrilling installment in Richelle Mead’s Vampire Academy spinoff series.

Tough, brainy alchemist Sydney Sage and doe-eyed Moroi princess Jill Dragomir are in hiding at a human boarding school in the sunny, glamorous world of Palm Springs, California. The students—children of the wealthy and powerful—carry on with their lives in blissful ignorance, while Sydney, Jill, Eddie and Adrian must do everything in their power to keep their secret safe. But with forbidden romances, unexpected spirit bonds, and the threat of Strigoi moving ever closer, hiding the truth is harder than anyone thought.

Populated with new faces as well as familiar ones, Richelle Mead’s breathtaking Bloodlines series explores all the friendship, romance, battles and betrayals that made the #1 New York Times bestselling Vampire Academy series so addictive. In this second book, the drama is hotter, the romances are steamier, and the stakes are even higher.

7. The Immortal Rules
by Julie Kagawa
Goodreads

You will kill. The only question is when.

In the dark days since the insidious Red Lung virus decimated the human population, vampires have risen to rule the crumbling cities and suburbs. Uncontested Princes hold sway over diminished ranks of humans: their "pets." In exchange for their labor, loyalty and of course, their blood, these pets are registered, given food and shelter, permitted to survive.

Unregistered humans cling to fringes, scavenging for survival. Allison Sekemoto and her fellow Unregistereds are hunted, not only by vampires, but by rabids, the unholy result of Red Lung-infected vampires feeding on unwary humans. One night, Allie is attacked by a pack of rabids, saved by an unlikely hero...and turned vampire.

Uncomfortable in her undead skin, Allie falls in with a ragtag crew of humans seeking a cure, or cures: for Rabidism and for Vampirism. She's passing for human...for now. But the hunger is growing and will not be denied. Not for friendship—not even for love.

8. The Selection
by Kiera Cass
Goodreads

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.

9. Under the Never Sky
by Veronica Rossi
Goodreads

Aria is a teenager in the enclosed city of Reverie. Like all Dwellers, she spends her time with friends in virtual environments, called Realms, accessed through an eyepiece called a Smarteye. Aria enjoys the Realms and the easy life in Reverie. When she is forced out of the pod for a crime she did not commit, she believes her death is imminent. The outside world is known as The Death Shop, with danger in every direction.

As an Outsider, Perry has always known hunger, vicious predators, and violent energy storms from the swirling electrified atmosphere called the Aether. A bit of an outcast even among his hunting tribe, Perry withstands these daily tests with his exceptional abilities, as he is gifted with powerful senses that enable him to scent danger, food and even human emotions.

They come together reluctantly, for Aria must depend on Perry, whom she considers a barbarian, to help her get back to Reverie, while Perry needs Aria to help unravel the mystery of his beloved nephew’s abduction by the Dwellers. Together they embark on a journey challenged as much by their prejudices as by encounters with cannibals and wolves. But to their surprise, Aria and Perry forge an unlikely love - one that will forever change the fate of all who live UNDER THE NEVER SKY.

10. When the Sea is Rising Red

by Cat Hellisen

Goodreads

After seventeen-year-old Felicita’s dearest friend Ilven kills herself to escape an arranged marriage, Felicita chooses freedom over privilege. She fakes her own death and leaves her sheltered life as one of Pelimburg’s magical elite behind. Living in the slums, scrubbing dishes for a living, she falls for charismatic Dash while also becoming fascinated with vampire Jannik. Then something shocking washes up on the beach: Ilven's death has called out of the sea a dangerous wild magic. Felicita must decide whether her loyalties lie with the family she abandoned . . . or with those who would twist this dark power to destroy Pelimburg's caste system, and the whole city along with it.

Check out my other Top Tens this 2011:

Top 10 Characters 2011
Top 10 Book Boyfriends 2011
Top 10 Book Covers 2011

Top 10 Characters of 2011

2011-12-29T23:36:00.001+03:00

This running from the 26th -30th of December. Its hosted by A Life Bound By Books, Rachel from Fiktshun, Jaime & Patricia from Two Chicks on Books&Confessions of a Bookaholic.

TOP 10 CHARACTERS OF 2011

1. Adrian in Bloodlines
by Richelle Mead

Why:

Despite the fact that he was heart broken and depressed. He still was excessively sarcastic to the point where I couldn't help but laugh my butt off.

2 - 3. Cat & Ian in The Night Huntress Series by Jeaniene Frost

Why:

Hands down! Cat is by far the best heroine I've read about. She's got all the characters of a stern, headstrong protagonist that keeps you entertained throughout the series.
Ian on the other hand, is down right hilarious. That man is so cute sometimes! I'm waiting for his turn to be a star in a spin-off series. He deserves some love too!

4. Lola in Lola and the Boy Next Door
by Stephanie Perkins

Why:

Lola, in so many ways, reminds me of me. She's uber talented and she's striving to find love and in the end finds it with an old friend. :D Aside from that, I just love her style and her courage to show it off in front of everyone.

5. Luc in Personal Demons
by Lisa Desrochers

Why:

Luc is that bad boy demon who DOES NOT feel anything for anyone. He doesn't have a heart (PERIOD!). Well, until he met the girl he was supposed to steal a soul from. I love it when bad boys go soft. Luc especially! Hes just cute, hot and sarcastic as hell!

6. Perry in Darkhouse
by Karina Halle

Why:

Her personality! Its just so real and I love reading her narration.

7. St. Clair in Anna and the French Kiss
by Stephanie Perkins

Why:

ITS ST. CLAIR!? Need I say more?

8. Tucker in Unearthly
by Cynthia Hand

Why:

cowboy + sweet + hot + funny = Tucker = Naj's fav

9. Will in The Ghost and the Goth
by Stacey Kade

Why:

Like Perry, I like Will for how real the author writes him. Plus, hes hot and the weird kid in school. I have a soft spot for them. :D

10. Wrath in Dark Lover

by J. R. Ward

Why:

Like I said. I love seeing bad boys fall in love and go all soft! And Wrath was the start of the Brotherhoods demise! They were defeated by women! Helllll yeaaa. This gives me hope. hahaha.

I had a really hard time filling up 10 spaces. =.= I don't remember most of the characters I've read about. Yea... I know. Thats a fail from my part.

Top 10 Book Boyfriends 2011

2011-12-28T18:50:00.001+03:00

This running from the 26th -30th of December. Its hosted by A Life Bound By Books, Rachel from Fiktshun, Jaime & Patricia from Two Chicks on Books& Confessions of a Bookaholic.

TOP 10 BOOK BOYFRIENDS 2011

Jared Leto as Adrian Ivashkov (Vampire Academy)

Ben Barnes

as Dimitri (Vampire Academy)

Jude Law

as Bones (Night Huntress Series)

Alexander

as Eric Northman (Sookie Stackhouse Series)

Henry Cavill

as Jean-Claude (Anita Blake Series)

Ian Somerhalder

as Damon Salvator (Vampire Diaries)

Andy Richardson

as St. Clair (Anna and the French Kiss)

Jamie Durnan

as Tucker (Unearthly)

Clemente

as Vlad (Night Huntress Series)

Zac Efron

as Will (The Ghost and the Goth)

*squeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee*! So many hotties. *dies*

Who's on your list?

Top 10 Book Covers of 2011

2011-12-27T21:55:00.000+03:00

This running from the 26th -30th of December. Its hosted by A Life Bound By Books, Rachel from Fiktshun, Jaime & Patricia from Two Chicks on Books & Confessions of a Bookaholic.

TOP 10 BOOK COVERS OF 2011

Anna Dressed in Blood
by Kendare Blake
Goodreads | My Review

Why I like the Cover:
Look at it! The haunting and creepy feel it gives a person when you even glance at it for a moment is there and thats how the contents of the book are. And the fact that whoever designed this cover is really good. He/She achieved a fabulous feel with so much attention put into the details with the hair, the blood and the dress itself. I know for sure how hard that can be.

Across the Universe
by Beth Revis
Goodreads | My Review

Why I like this Cover:
This cover is so magical and sci-fi which totally matches the book. The blend of pink, purple, red and orange is amazing and really makes the book pop wherever it may be hiding from.

Clarity
by Kim Harrington
Goodreads

Why I like this Cover:
Has anyone heard of the saying 'Less is more'? This phrase/saying describes this cover entirely. The simplicity of it makes it pop and powerful. Its amazing how so little can make one feel.

Dark Mirror
by M.J. Putney
Goodreads

Why I like this Cover:
So many elements, so much work that has been put in it. As a cover designer myself. I know and feel for the designers who have worked on these beautiful covers. This one in particular is beautiful with the grudgy feel and amazing attention to detail. The blending is awesome and I love how the designer made the glow. It makes the cover look magical.

Die For Me
by Amy Plum
Goodreads | My Review

Why I like this Cover:
As a cover designer myself, I can probably make something close to this. But I don't think I can accomplish how the swirls are around the model and the overall book without it looking so freaking random. haha. I tip my hat to the designer!

Hourglass
by Myra McEntire
Goodreads

Why I like the Cover:
The concept is AMAZING! I don't think I'll ever come up with something similar. Its just so surreal and avant garde. Who ever made this is a genius!

The Girl in the Steel Corset
by Kady Cross
Goodreads

Why I like the Cover:
1. The colors are so vibrant
2. The dress is AWESOME! I'd like one please!
3. The texture is wonderfully blended

Tempest Rising
by Tracy Deebs
Goodreads

Why I like the Cover:
Seriously? I think its obvious. She's purple well, her tail is. But whatever. The point is I love purple and in this cover it looks awesome! :D

The Pledge
by Kimberly Derting
Goodreads

Why I like this Cover:
This is another example of 'Less is More' but in Black. Its just more powerful and beautiful. I think this is just a photograph only with very light photoshopping done. :D Either way. It looks amazing.

The Space Between
by Brenna Yovanoff
Goodreads

Why I like this Cover:
Now, this cover really gives me the creeps. I think its mostly because the background is almost fully red and the girl looks so ghost like and dead. Despite the fact that it give me the creeps. It really draws a person in. Like its ready to pounce out and grab you into the contents of the book. I really love it when artists achieve that kind of feel.

That concludes my Top 10 Book Covers of 2011. I know there are loads more pretty books out there but there isn't enough room to put it in here. :( So what do you guys think? I

Review: Oriana's Eyes (Great Oak Trilogy #1) by Celeste Simone

2011-12-27T21:14:00.001+03:00

(Click image for goodreads page)
Title: Oriana's Eyes (Great Oak Trilogy #1)
Author: Celeste Simone
Started: 26/12/11
Finished: 27/12/11
Medium: eBook
Publisher: iUniverse
Genre: Young Adult: Paranormal, Dystopian
Buy here: Amazon / The Book Depository / Barnes & Noble

Goodreads Synopsis: As a pure-blood Winglet, Oriana isn't supposed to look at a half-blood much less speak to one. Half-bloods are the lowest of all races at Odon's University, because they are half Winglet and half Finlet. But when a half-blood, Dorian, locks eyes with her in the hallway, Oriana can't help but be intrigued by his daring nature. After sneaking out to the garden in the middle of the night to talk to him, Oriana knows she can't let her feelings go. She fears not following Odon's rules, but the more she sees Dorian the more she wants to break them all. When Oriana's idea of perfection crumbles she seeks a way out of the imprisoning University that threatens not only her happiness, but her very life. Dorian promises he has a plan to take her far away, but Oriana doubts they can escape Odon's all-seeing eye. Oriana isn't sure what she fears more, being stuck in the University or finding out what lies beyond its walls.

Celeste Simone has created and written a wonderful alternate universe with new races based on the water and the air creatures. In literal sense, people who have wings and can fly and people who have fins and can swim. The worlds become chaotic when the Winglets (people who fly) and the Finlets (people who can swim?) mix and mate and produce the all powerful Half-Blood, who are the ones who let their emotions take over and have the power to rule thousands. Love the fantasy!

In this story, Oriana is attracted to a particular "part-blood" and escapes from the University (the place where they are brainwashed and stuff) when this part-blood smiles at her while passing her in the hall way. While, I was reading this book, I didn't have any feelings of "OH WOAH!" or "OH NO!!". Its more like "Okay, nice keep going".

What I'm trying to say is that, Oriana Eyes is a good story with a nice plot and very well created scenario with a lot of new "races" as they called it in the book. But it lacked the WOW factor. Aside from that the ending had a sparkle or spec of the wow factor. It just needs to go beyond that a little. Also, the book was very realistic, to the point where people die, like they should when certain things happen. This gives the book a plus for me! I'd like to see (or read) where Celeste takes this story. Till then I give this a 3/5 stars.

Top 10 Books I've Read in 2011

2011-12-26T14:34:00.001+03:00

This running from the 26th -30th of December. Its hosted by A Life Bound By Books, Rachel from Fiktshun, Jaime & Patricia from Two Chicks on Books & Confessions of a Bookaholic.

TOP 10 BOOKS I'VE READ IN 2011

Lola and the Boy Next Door
by Stephanie Perkins
Read my Review

Goodreads Synopsis: Budding designer Lola Nolan doesn’t believe in fashion . . . she believes in costume. The more expressive the outfit -- more sparkly, more fun, more wild -- the better. But even though Lola’s style is outrageous, she’s a devoted daughter and friend with some big plans for the future. And everything is pretty perfect (right down to her hot rocker boyfriend) until the dreaded Bell twins, Calliope and Cricket, return to the neighborhood.
When Cricket -- a gifted inventor -- steps out from his twin sister’s shadow and back into Lola’s life, she must finally reconcile a lifetime of feelings for the boy next door.

Anna Dressed in Blood

by Kendare Blake

Read my Review

Goodreads Synopsis: Just your average boy-meets-girl, girl-kills-people story. . .
Cas Lowood has inherited an unusual vocation: He kills the dead.
So did his father before him, until his gruesome murder by a ghost he sought to kill. Now, armed with his father's mysterious and deadly athame, Cas travels the country with his kitchen-witch mother and their spirit-sniffing cat. Together they follow legends and local lore, trying to keep up with the murderous dead—keeping pesky things like the future and friends at bay.
When they arrive in a new town in search of a ghost the locals call Anna Dressed in Blood, Cas doesn't expect anything outside of the ordinary: move, hunt, kill. What he finds instead is a girl entangled in curses and rage, a ghost like he's never faced before. She still wears the dress she wore on the day of her brutal murder in 1958: once white, but now stained red and dripping blood. Since her death, Anna has killed any and every person who has dared to step into the deserted Victorian she used to call home. And she, for whatever reason, spares his life.

Nevermore
by Kelly Creagh
Read my Review

Goodreads Synopsis: Cheerleader Isobel Lanley is horrified when she is paired with Varen Nethers for an English project, which is due—so unfair—on the day of the rival game. Cold and aloof, sardonic and sharp-tongued, Varen makes it clear he’d rather not have anything to do with her either. But when Isobel discovers strange writing in his journal, she can’t help but give this enigmatic boy with the piercing eyes another look.
Soon, Isobel finds herself making excuses to be with Varen. Steadily pulled away from her friends and her possessive boyfriend, Isobel ventures deeper and deeper into the dream world Varen has created through the pages of his notebook, a realm where the terrifying stories of Edgar Allan Poe come to life.

As her world begins to unravel around her, Isobel discovers that dreams, like words, hold more power than she ever imagined, and that the most frightening realities are those of the mind. Now she must find a way to reach Varen before he is consumed by the shadows of his own nightmares. His life depends on it.

Across the Universe

by Beth Revis

Read my Review

Goodreads Synopsis: This is a story about Amy and how her life is frozen (literally) with a select others for 301 years. They are frozen in a box (otherwise called cryo chambers) and put on "Godspeed", a ship that was sent out into space toward a new planet that will take over 3 centuries to reach. But something mysterious awakens Amy early from her boxed prison and from there the reader is taken on a roller-coaster sort of ride into Amy and Elders life. Amy's strife to accept her new prison and how alone she is and Elders fight to accomplish what a soon to be leader of "Godspeed" should be like.

Die For Me
by Amy Plum
Read My Review

Goodreads Synopsis: Die For Me is the debut novel of a wonderful new writer named Amy Plum. The book was focused on the main character Kate who, with her sister, moved to Paris to stay with their grandparents after their parents death in a tragic accident. It isn't easy moving to a whole new place and leaving behind all her memories and her home. And Kate uses the world of books as a means to escape from her pain that she has to go through due to the loss of her parents. Slowly, she begins to get out more and read out in a cafe where a mysterious young man catches her attention and destroys whatever boundaries she put up with just one smile.

Anna and the French Kiss

by Stephanie Perkins

Read My Review

Goodreads Synopsis: Anna is looking forward to her senior year in Atlanta, where she has a great job, a loyal best friend, and a crush on the verge of becoming more. Which is why she is less than thrilled about being shipped off to boarding school in Paris - until she meets Etienne St. Clair: perfect, Parisian (and English and American, which makes for a swoon-worthy accent), and utterly irresistible. The only problem is that he's taken, and Anna might be, too, if anything comes of her almost-relationship back home.

As winter melts into spring, will a year of romantic near - misses end with the French kiss Anna - and readers - have long awaited?

Darkfever
by Karen Marie Moning
Read my Review

Goodreads Synopsis: MacKayla Lane’s life is good. She has great friends, a decent job, and a car that breaks down only every other week or so. In other words, she’s your perfectly ordinary twenty-first-century woman. Or so she thinks…until something extraordinary happens.
When her sister is murdered, leaving a single clue to her death–a cryptic message on Mac’s cell phone–Mac journeys to Ireland in search of answers. The quest to find her sister’s killer draws her into a shadowy realm where nothing is as it seems, where good and evil wear the same treacherously seductive mask. She is soon faced with an even greater challenge: staying alive long enough to learn how to handle a power she had no idea she possessed–a gift that allows her to see beyond the world of man, into the dangerous realm of the Fae….

The Apocalypse Gene

by Suki Michelle & Carlyle Clark

Read my Review

Goodreads Synopsis: With Pandemic ravaging the globe, Olivya's psychic Sight compels her to see auras riddled with the colors of despair, and now her mother is infected.
Olivya’s only hope is the mysterious Mikah, a powerful Empath who claims the Pandemic is linked to his clan, the Kindred, and their brooding, monstrous, Immortal Lord. But can she trust this boy who can manipulate her very emotions?
With Mikah's aid, Olivya races to unearth Kindred secrets, desperate to find a cure, only to discover the Pandemic is far, far more than a mere disease . . .

Unearthly
by Cynthia Hand
Read my Review

Goodreads Synopsis: In the beginning, there's a boy standing in the trees . . . .
Clara Gardner has recently learned that she's part angel. Having angel blood run through her veins not only makes her smarter, stronger, and faster than humans (a word, she realizes, that no longer applies to her), but it means she has a purpose, something she was put on this earth to do. Figuring out what that is, though, isn't easy.
Her visions of a raging forest fire and an alluring stranger lead her to a new school in a new town. When she meets Christian, who turns out to be the boy of her dreams (literally), everything seems to fall into place.
As Clara tries to find her way in a world she no longer understands, she encounters unseen dangers and choices she never thought she'd have to make—between honesty and deceit, love and duty, good and evil. When the fire from her vision finally ignites, will Clara be ready to face her destiny?
Unearthly is a moving tale of love and fate, and the struggle between following the rules and following your heart.

Released

by Megan Duncan

Read my Review

Goodreads Synopsis: After a demon apocalypse kills their parents and everyone they know, 17-year old Abby Phillips, her brother, Carter, and friend, Max flee their home to travel through what has become the wastelands of America. When radio transmissions of a resistance offering shelter and safety cease, Abby is tempted to give up. Struggling to overcome life-threatening obstacles in their dangerous journey, Abby and her companions quickly discover there are much worse things lurking in the dark than they could have ever imagined.

Review: Anna Dressed in Blood (Anna #1) by Kendare Blake

2011-12-26T10:44:00.001+03:00

(Click image for goodreads page)
Title: Anna Dressed in Blood (Anna #1)
Author: Kendare Blake
Started: 24/12/11
Finished: 26/12/11
Medium: Hardbound

Publisher: Tor Teen

Genre: Young Adult: Paranormal

Buy here: Amazon / The Book Depository / Barnes & Noble

Goodreads Synopsis:

Just your average boy-meets-girl, girl-kills-people story. . .

Cas Lowood has inherited an unusual vocation: He kills the dead.

So did his father before him, until his gruesome murder by a ghost he sought to kill. Now, armed with his father's mysterious and deadly athame, Cas travels the country with his kitchen-witch mother and their spirit-sniffing cat. Together they follow legends and local lore, trying to keep up with the murderous dead—keeping pesky things like the future and friends at bay.

When they arrive in a new town in search of a ghost the locals call Anna Dressed in Blood, Cas doesn't expect anything outside of the ordinary: move, hunt, kill. What he finds instead is a girl entangled in curses and rage, a ghost like he's never faced before. She still wears the dress she wore on the day of her brutal murder in 1958: once white, but now stained red and dripping blood. Since her death, Anna has killed any and every person who has dared to step into the deserted Victorian she used to call home.

And she, for whatever reason, spares his life.

I am overwhelmed at how good Anna Dressed in Blood is. There wasn't a part where I found it dragging to the point where I was screaming "GET ON WITH IT!". It was going at a perfect pace. Authors who are able to write a book in a perfect pace needs to be worshipped for their awesomeness at it. If I ever get the chance to write a book, I don't think I'll ever get a perfect pace like how Blake wrote this book.

I'm guilty. I didn't actually read the synposis before I decided to get this or read this. And because of that I didn't know the lead character, Cas was a boy until like the 2nd Chapter. Thats a major fail on my part. Anyways, I adore Young Adult books with male leads. It breaks the chain of endless female protagonists. Its rare but each time there is one "male" lead. I know for sure, the book will be good.

And I was not disappointed. Like the title, my copy of Anna Dressed in Blood was also dressed and filled with its own blood. The text was crimson. Which adds in a more haunting effect to the book.

Cas, our lead, is awesomely written and acts like he should as a teenager. He's a ghost hunter, like his father before him. He's dad is dead and he moves around with his mom killing ghosts with his dads knife. Cas is fascinated by the mysterious story of Anna, Anna Dressed in Blood and so he moves to Thunder Bay to kill it/her. Cas is a perfect protagonist for this role and for sure, a reader will love him.

Along the way, Cas, who is a lone ranger per se. Meets two teenagers his age, who he accidentally drags into his plan to kill Anna and with their help they try a spell to weaken Anna. At some point, the book got scary. Like Look-behind-your-shoulder-scary. To be exact, Chapter 20 scared the begezuz out of me!

Anna Dressed in Blood is haunting, dark, gorey, extremely unique, original and by far the best book I've read in 2011. The world Blake creates is utterly vivid and captivating. Its that definite read everyone is longing to read. The book that'll haunt you after reading. A definite unputdownable book.

In My Mailbox #35

2011-12-25T14:06:00.001+03:00

A weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren, where we post all books we have received where in the mail, bought or got from the library.

Butterflies, Flowers Vol. 3 by Yuki Yoshihara

Butterflies, Flowers Vol. 4 by Yuki Yoshihara

Butterflies, Flowers Vol. 5 by Yuki Yoshihara

Butterflies, Flowers Vol. 6 by Yuki Yoshihara

Butterflies, Flowers Vol. 7 by Yuki Yoshihara

Tempest Rising by Tracy Deebs

A Tale of Two Goblins by H.P. Mallory

The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting

The Space Between by Brenna Yonanoff

The Pledge by Kimberly Derting

Kevin's Point of View by Del Shannon

I can't wait to read The Pledge! :D Should be awesome.

What did you guys get this week?

Quick Review: Fool Me Once (Hot Bods #1) by Lacey Wolfe

2011-12-20T11:49:00.000+03:00

(Click image for goodreads page)
Title: Fool Me Once
Author: Lacey Wolfe
Started: 19/12/11
Finished: 20/12/11
Medium: eBook (For Review from PR)

Goodreads Synopsis:

Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice…

Drew is the last person Skylar wanted to see across from her at a local bar. A month ago he'd wined and dined her all weekend, leaving her feeling fully in love, but then she awoke alone in an empty hotel room and she hadn't heard from him since.

The weekend Drew spent with Skylar was phenomenal. There had never been anyone who made him feel as complete as she did. He shouldn't have disappeared, he should have called, but his feelings for her scared him, so he distanced himself. But when he saw her again, he knew he couldn't stay away any longer.

Skylar's determined not to give Drew another chance to hurt her, but he's just as determined to win her back. Although it won't be easy, he's up to the challenge, and he's willing to do whatever it takes to accomplish his goal.

Fool Me Once is a sexy tale that will definitely keep you hooked with the first chapter all the way to the end. Not only was it steamy, it was an excessively quick read filled with some angst, little fights, and mostly steamy sex.

This novella is perfect for a one sitting read. The draw between the protagonists can easily be felt with Wolfe's writing and for sure, her novels are awesome just by reading this.

I'm hoping Wolfe will be writing more on the main characters bestfriend. The poor thing is all alone. :(

Fool Me Once is a novella perfect for one sitting. Its got everything a wonderful novella has: Hot characters, steamy sex, great scenario and awesome writing! I'm definitely looking forward to reading more from Wolfe!

Review: Indulge (Warm Delicacy #2) by Megan Duncan

2011-12-20T07:00:00.000+03:00

Title: Indulge (Warm Delicacy #2)
Author: Megan Duncan
Started: 5/12/11
Finished: 9/12/11
Medium: eBook ARC (from the author)
Goodreads | Amazon | Barnes & Noble

Claire was nearly killed and is on the run from a vengeful vampire. Together with her Blood Mate, Arrick, she’s trying to make her way to her rightful home. And because of this vengeful vampire and The Dark a war is looming on the horizon. Claire doesn’t want to sit back and watch. She wants to stand her ground and fight against whoever is trying to take her and kill the ones she loves in the process.

Indulge is the second book of the Warm Delicacy Series by Megan Duncan. This sequel is even better than the first book. It held suspense, action, amusing, romantic and so much more. It definitely has the qualities to grab you by the collar and pull into in the book.

The story line thickens and Claire is now focused on revenge and at the same time her whole character changed. She’s more bustling with confidence and strength as well as the courage to speak her mind and go for what she believes. She is no longer the normal girl we met in the first book of the series.

At the same time, we get to know more about Arrick (Claire’s Blood Mate) and he is definitely swoon worthy. Like usual our protagonist is torn between two lovers and is completely confused about it. But I’m glad Megan wrote little on that topic and more on the action, which I was so engrossed in.

Unlike Savor, Indulge has the best of the characters new and old. My new fav would be Bennett. Though, he isn’t much to fangirl about, his character is witty and has a rare element that is completely trust-worthy. You probably won’t like him in the beginning but as you read he becomes an instant favorite.

Indulge is a righteously original take on vampires of the YA genre. Its vastly alluring and seeps of complete awesomeness, it's a definite read if you enjoy watching protagonists become kick-ass heroines and love the outcomes of it. Indulge is yet another unputdownable book from Megan Duncan.

In My Mailbox #34

2011-12-18T22:00:00.001+03:00

A weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren, where we post all books we have received where in the mail, bought or got from the library.

Bought from Amazon (w/ GC):

The Vampire Dimitri by Colleen Gleason (Goodreads, Amazon, The Book Depository)

Queen of the Dead by Stacey Kade (Goodreads, Amazon, The Book Depository)

What did you guys get this week? Let me know in the comment section below!

Review: Evanescence by Alexandra Pelaez

2011-12-17T15:15:00.001+03:00

(Click image for goodreads page)
Title: Evanescence
Author: Alexandra Pelaez
Started: 16/12/11
Finished: 17/12/11
Medium: eBook (For Review from Author)

Goodreads Synopsis:

Seventeen-year-old Mercedes Strand has never been afraid to help others. The fact that she uses her hacking skills to help abused women make new lives for themselves is proof enough of that. Even after being kidnapped and dumped into a filthy dark slum, she still can’t resist someone in need. But this time her world is turned upside down when the victim is revealed to be a gravely injured vampire by the name of Shadow. An outcast in vampire society, Shadow has endured unspeakable torment at the hands of the elites making him ruthless and suicidal.

In saving his life, Mercedes has made herself a target by thwarting the assassination attempt of an incredibly powerful, sadistic elite vampire. And Shadow has to protect her. His strict code of honor will demand nothing else. But from the very start, Mercedes is captivated by his dark, haunting beauty. And soon Shadow is unable to deny her purity and compassion are awakening emotions he once thought dead…

Evanescence is actually a creature in the book. Alexandra describes it as looking like a beetle with a lizard tail and rows of teeth. It is also the size of a medium dog and it purrs like a cat. At first, it kind of freaked me out but as the story goes a long you'll actually start thinking these things are cute.

The book started well, during the year 2075 (or sometime after), it was written wonderfully and the transitions were smooth. The book was entirely easy to read and I loved the characters.

Mercedes Strand is our lead and she's extremely smart and such an incredible hacker. She helps out abused women and she's pretty much very selfless. She only does things for other people rather than herself. Then she's becomes a tool for in an elite's plan for revenge on a vampire named Shadow, who by the way is incredibly hot. How Mercedes and Shadow met was sort of original but the love between them was kind of... I don't know. I always complain about the whiny types of love. But the whining mostly came from Shadow. I know right. Can't blame him for trying to protect his love.

Despite a few flaws here and there. The impact of the book is a little weak but I'm sure Alexandra will be writing it better with each book in the series. I'm looking forward to reading the next book when it comes out.

(If you're an author and have already sent me your eBook for review. I'm sorry for the delay. I've been preoccupied with paperbacks. I'll finish of most of my eBooks by the end of the year)

Quick Review: Daimon (Covenant #0.5) by Jennifer L. Armentrout

2011-12-13T11:30:00.000+03:00

(Click image for goodreads page)
Title: Daimon
Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout
Started: 12/12/11
Finished: 12/12/11
Medium: eBook

Goodreads Synopsis:

For three years, Alexandria has lived among mortals—pretending to be like them and trying to forget the duty she'd been trained to fulfill as a child of a mortal and a demigod. At seventeen, she's pretty much accepted that she's a freak by mortal standards... and that she'll never be prepared for that duty.

According to her mother, that’s a good thing.

But as every descendant of the gods knows, Fate has a way of rearing her ugly head. A horrifying attack forces Alex to flee Miami and try to find her way back to the very place her mother had warned her she should never return—the Covenant. Every step that brings her closer to safety is one more step toward death… because she's being hunted by the very creatures she'd once trained to kill.

The daimons have found her.

Seriously?! 70 plus pages and Armentrout managed to write such an awesome prologue. She's showing off her mad writing skills and in the process, she's teasing us with this prologue to the her Covenant Series.

We meet our protagonist Alexandria at the beach party with her mortal boyfriend, Matt. The book was narrated fantastically, it was a combination of humor, wit and sarcasm which is perfect for a book like this. Alex is a kick-ass female protagonist, who's trained in the 'fighting ways' of the half-bloods. She reminded me a lot of Rose Hathaway (Vampire Academy) but I'm not saying that in a bad way. The prologue's pace was incredibly fitting for how short it was and all the events that happened, made me believe I wasn't just reading the prologue.

Just like Rose, Alex is so going to be an interesting character to follow in the Covenant Series. I'm looking forward to reading the first book of the series and luckily for me. I already have it on my bookshelf. A fantastic introduction from a rising star!

2012 Reading Challenges

2011-12-12T19:09:00.000+03:00

2012 TBR Pile (Info here)

Aim: 11-20 - A Friendly Hug

Reminder: Only books released in 2011 and earlier!

NO ARCs and 2012 fresh-off-the-press releases allowed!

December is a wrap-up for the whole year.

The Vampire Voss by Colleen Gleason
The Vampire Narcise by Collen Gleason
Bloodfever by Karen Marie Moning
Faefever by Karen Marie Moning
Dreamfever by Karen Marie Moning
Shadowfever by Karen Marie Moning
Iron King by Julia Kagawa
Iron Daughter by Julia Kagawa
Iron Queen by Julia Kagawa
Iron Knight by Julia Kagawa
Anna Dressed in Blood by Kendare Blake
Perfect Chemistry by Simon Elkeles
Rules of Attraction by Simon Elkeles
Chain Reaction by Simon Elkeles
Beautiful Creatures by Kami Gracia and Margaret Stohl
Beautiful Darkness by Kami Gracia and Margaret Stohl
Beautiful Chaos by Kami Gracia and Margaret Stohl
Fateful by Claudia Gray
Hourglass by McEntire
Awake at Dawn by C.C. Hunter

2012 Debut Author Challenge (Info here)

Aim: 12 Books by the end of 2012

Reminder:

Incarnate by Jodi Meadows
Under the Never Sky by Brodi Ashton
Article 5 by Kristen Simmons
The Selection by Kiera Cross
Of Poseidon by Anna Banks
The Vicious Deep by Zoraida Cordova
Sweet Evil by Wendy Higgins
Struck by Jennifer Bosworth
Something Strange and Deadly by Susan Dennard
Embrace by Jessica Shirvington
When the Sea is Rising Red by Cat Hellisen
Cinder by Marissa Meyer

2012 Those Books I Should Have Read (Info here)
Aim: Level 2 – 12 books
Reminder: Each month I will post a link up post where you can link any reviews you have written for books for this challenge.

Harry Potter 4 by J.K. Rowling
Harry Potter 5 by J.K. Rowling
Harry Potter 6 by J.K. Rowling
Harry Potter 7 by J.K. Rowling
Anita Blake 6 by Laurell K. Hamilton
Anita Blake 7 by Laurell K. Hamilton
Anita Blake 8 by Laurell K. Hamilton
City of Bones by Cassandra Clare
City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare
City of Glass by Cassandra Clare
Ink Exchange by Melissa Marr
Love you to Death & High Stakes by Meg Cabot

Thats all for now! Let me know if you know of anymore challenges. Maybe I'll join them!
:D I'm excited to start them.

2012 Those Books I Should Have Read (Info here)
Aim: Level 1: 5+ books
Reminder: You can read any contemporary YA novel that is published between January 1, 2012and December 30, 2012 but you must read them in 2012! Check list of Contemporaries out this year : Spreadsheet and Goodreads list.

Ditched: A love Story by Robin Mellom
The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer Smith
Someone Else's Life by Katie Dale
Keep Holding On by Susane Colasanti (June Release)
Flirting in Italian by Lauren Henderson (June Release)
Shooting Stars by Allison Rushby

In My Mailbox #33 [Another Epic Edition]

2011-12-12T18:02:00.000+03:00

A weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren, where we post all books we have received where in the mail, bought or got from the library.

So, all my design jobs paid off and got me a wonderful range of books. Yay! I didn't even have to pay for them. :D More coming in as long as I continue with the freelancing.

Iron Queen by Julia Kagawa

Iron Daughter by Julia Kagawa

Beautiful Chaos by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl

Awake at Dawn by C.C. Hunter

Forgive my Fins by Tara Lynn Childs

Changeling Moon by Dani Harper

The Faerie Ring by Kiki Hamilton

Darklight by Lesley Livingstone

Pale Blue Dot by Carl Sagan

A Kiss at Midnight by Eloisa James

Living Dead in Dallas by Charlene Harris

Dreamfever by Karen Marie Moning

The Man's book by Thomas Fink

Three Days to Dead by Kelly Meding

First Grave on the Right by Darynda Jones

Darkhouse by Karina Halle

What did you guys get this week?

Tower of Epic Bookishness [Unputdownable Books Edition]

2011-12-10T10:10:00.001+03:00

Our attempt at ReadingTeen's Tower of Epic Bookishness! :D

Blog Tour: The Gaia Wars by Kenneth G. Bennett

2011-12-07T07:30:00.000+03:00

As part of this special promotional extravaganza sponsored by Novel Publicity, the price of The Gaia Wars eBook edition has dropped to just 99 cents this week.What’s more, by purchasing this fantastic book at an incredibly low price, you can enter to win many awesome prizes, including a Kindle Fire, Amazon gift cards up to $100 in amount, 5 autographed copies of the book, and 5 autographed copies of its recently released sequel, Battle for Cascadia. Be sure to enter before the end of the day on Friday, December 9th, so you don’t miss out.

To Win the Prizes:

Purchase your copy of The Gaia Wars for just 99 cents on Amazon or Barnes & Noble
Fill-out the form on Novel Publicity to enter for the prizes
Visit today’s featured event; you may win an autographed copy of the book or a $50 gift card!
BONUS: If you leave a comment on this blog post, you have another chance at $100!

...And I can win too!

Over 100 bloggers are participating in this gigantic event, and there are plenty of prizes for us too. The blogger who receives the most votes in the traffic-breaker poll will win a $100 gift card as well. So when you visit Novel Publicity’s site to fill-out the contest entry form, don’t forget to say that I referred you, so I can get a point in the poll.

The Featured Events include:

Monday, Blogaganza on Novel Publicity! We’re kicking-off on the Novel Publicity Free Advice blog. We’ll ask the writer 5 fun and random questions to get everyone talking. Leave a comment or question in response to the post, and you may win an autographed copy of The Gaia Wars or its recently released sequel, Battle for Cascadia. Don’t forget to enter for the other contest prizes while you’re over there!Tuesday, Twitter sharing contest! A tweet is tiny, only 140 characters. But on Tuesday, it could win you $50. Send the following tweet across the twittersphere, and you just may win a $50 Amazon gift card. Autographed copies of The Gaia Wars and its recently released sequel, Battle for Cascadia, are also up for grabs. The winner will be announced Wednesday morning. Here’s the tweet: Looking for a YA read that's full of adventure & intrigue? Check out The Gaia Wars. Reduced to just 99 cents http://ow.ly/7ywpZ #whirlwind Wednesday, Google+ sharing contest! Yup, there’s yet another awesome opportunity to win a $50 Amazon gift card, and this time it just takes a single click! Visit Google+ and share Emlyn Chand’s most recent post (you’ll see The Gaia Wars book cover included with it).

On Thursday morning, one lucky sharer will be $50 richer. Autographed copies of The Gaia Wars and its recently released sequel, Battle for Cascadia, are also up for grabs. Three chances to win! How about that?Thursday, Facebook sharing contest! Stop by Novel Publicity’s Facebook page and share their latest post (you’ll see The Gaia Wars book cover included with it). It’s ridiculously easy to win! On Friday morning, one lucky sharer will be $50 richer. Autographed copies of The Gaia Wars and its recently released sequel, Battle for Cascadia, are also up for grabs.Friday, special contest on the author’s site! Win a Kindle Fire or a $100 Amazon gift card, simply by leaving a comment on Kenneth’s most recent blog post. How easy is that? Autographed copies of The Gaia Wars and its recently released sequel, Battle for Cascadia, are also up for grabs.

Remember, it’s all about the books!

About The Gaia Wars: DEADLY SECRETS have been buried in the Cascade mountain wilderness for centuries. Hidden. Out of sight and out of mind. Until today… Warren Wilkes, age 13, doesn’t like what a greedy housing developer has done to his peaceful mountain community, so he vandalizes the developer’s property, flees into the wild, and stumbles upon an ancient human skeleton revealed by torrential rain. More than old bones have been exposed, however, and the curious artifact Warren finds makes him question his own identity, and his connection to an ancient terror. A terror destined to rise again and annihilate all that Warren loves. He must fight or see his whole world destroyed. Get it on Amazon or Barnes & Noble.About Battle for Cascadia: When Warren Wilkes, age 13, stumbles upon a mysterious relic deep in the Cascade Mountains, wonder reigns. Brimming with secrets and sentient energy, the relic leads Warren to a fantastic chamber, and to shocking revelations about his identity. Now wonder has turned to dread. A forgotten terror—a demon that knows Warren better than he knows himself—has risen again and is assembling an army; gathering power with a singularly evil goal in mind: to capture and enslave the wild spirit of the Earth itself. As war erupts and the planet slips into chaos, Warren embraces his destiny and finds help where he least expects it. Get it on Amazon or Barnes & Noble.About the Author: Kenneth G. Bennett is the author of the Young Adult novels The Gaia Wars and Battle for Cascadia (the second book of The Gaia Wars), as well as the forthcoming Exodus 2018, a paranormal thriller set in the Puget Sound region of Washington State. A wilderness enthusiast who loves backpacking, skiing and kayaking, Ken enjoys novels that explore the relationship between humans and the wild. He lives on an island in the Pacific Northwest with his wife and son. Visit him on his website, Twitter, Facebook, or GoodReads.

Now please enjoy this sneak peek of The Gaia Wars...

Chapter 3

The ground climbed steadily and Warren slowed but didn’t stop. He knew how to pace himself, and ran lightly over the soft earth, weaving between the pines.

A plan formed in Warren’s mind. He would make for Pipestone Canyon, roughly two miles distant. He and his uncle had hiked, skied and snowshoed there dozens of times, and he knew it well. Perhaps he could hide among the canyon’s crags, cliffs and massive boulders. Perhaps.

Warren topped a low ridge, entered a clearing, and heard the sudden rush of brawling Nine Mile Creek, two hundred yards ahead. Born in the snowy Cascades, the sparkling stream clattered across the meadow. It was roughly fifteen feet wide here, but shallow, gravel-bottomed and easy to cross.

Now that he was out of the trees, Warren heard other sounds, too: the unmistakable baying of dogs, surprisingly close, and the low, steady whine of ATVs. The Finleys were after him, all right, and they were getting closer.

For the first time, Warren felt truly afraid. He remembered the rage on Mr. Finley’s face. Who could guess what the big brute might do? Or maybe Finley Sr. would simply turn a blind eye as Finley Jr. pulverized him. Junior was a good thirty pounds heavier than Warren, after all.

Wild thoughts flooded Warren’s mind. Maybe the Finleys would tie him up and drag him behind their ATVs, or let their dogs tear him to pieces. He couldn’t guess, and he didn’t want to find out. Warren had an idea. Instead of running straight across the creek, he would run in it for a while. His shoes and socks would get soaked, but perhaps the ploy would confuse the dogs—at least temporarily. It was a trick he’d read about in numerous adventure stories. Maybe it would help. He leapt into the clear, frigid water. It was only about a foot deep here, where it crossed the flat, open meadow, but shockingly cold. He sprinted upstream.

Though June meant summer in other parts of the country, it was still early spring here in the higher elevations of the Clement Valley. It had snowed heavily all winter, and the meadows only recently had become snow-free. It had just rained, too, so everything had a fresh, new quality and the air was crisp and clean. Wildflowers carpeted the creek banks.

Warren splashed on—the gravel stream bottom giving a bit under each sloshing footfall. He saw now that the snowmelt and recent rain had caused the clay soil of the stream’s banks to fracture. Here and there great slabs of creek edge had fallen into the water. In some spots, sections of bank teetered, like new islands breaking apart from the mainland after a catastrophic quake. Ahead, the creek jogged sharply to the right.

Warren scanned the meadow. In another hundred feet or so, he’d climb out of the water and run uphill, toward Pipestone Canyon. He sprinted, following the sharp bend in the stream.

That’s when he saw the skeleton.

It was a human skeleton, no doubt about that, lying face up on the soft earth. Warren could see at once what had happened: the skeleton had been buried in the reddish-brown clay of the bank, but a section of creek edge had fractured and fallen away, freeing the skeleton from its tomb. It lay there in broad daylight, as neatly and cleanly as if it had just rolled out of a crypt. Warren stepped forward cautiously and gazed at the remains in silent wonder.

He would have forgotten about the Finleys, his prank and everything else—only now that he’d stopped moving he heard the dogs and whining ATVs once more. Even over the joyful clatter of the creek, the sounds were unmistakable. The Finleys were coming through the forest, within a minute or two of the meadow.

Warren stared at the skeleton. He’d been to enough museums and read enough books to know that it was very old. The bones were light brown and smooth, like aged ivory. It occurred to Warren they might even be fossilized.

The skull, arm and leg bones were large, and the hips narrow, so he guessed he was looking at the remains of a man. The lower jawbone was missing, as were the bones of the right foot. Otherwise, the skeleton appeared intact. Warren leaned closer to the skull, but the empty eye sockets gazing skyward gave him a queer feeling.

He took one last look and …

There was something protruding from the dirt, near the skeleton’s right hip. Warren peered closely.The “something,” whatever it was, was encrusted with soft clay. It blended with the surrounding soil, and was nearly invisible.Warren gently traced the object with his fingers, pried some of the clay away, and understood. It was a pouch: leather, bound at the top with a fragment of cord.

Warren teased more soil from the object, marveling that the leather was still supple and intact. Even the design on the face of the pouch—a fine red spiral—had somehow been preserved inside the clay tomb of the creek bank.

Carefully, painstakingly, Warren lifted the pouch free from the soil, loosened the cord, and spilled the contents out.The first artifact to tumble onto the creek bank—into the sunlight—was a stone spear point. It was about five inches long, brownish-yellow and lovingly crafted. It was still razor sharp, by the look of it.The spear point made Warren gasp. But the object that thudded onto the bank after it stopped his heart.It was a heavy, flat medallion of gleaming, hammered gold, inset with sparkling blue gems.

Dazzlingly beautiful, the medallion (medallion was the first word that came to Warren’s mind) could easily have been the centerpiece of a great king’s crown, or of a royal necklace. The object had seven equal sides.A heptagon, Warren thought. It was a term he’d learned in last semester’s math.Warren’s hand shook as he traced the perimeter of the heptagon with one finger. The object was about four inches across, and twice as thick as the old silver dollars in his uncle’s coin collection.In the center of the heptagon was set a perfect circle of highly polished obsidian. The dazzling blue gems—there were seven of them, as well—were embedded in the gold and placed evenly about the obsidian circle.

Warren turned the medallion over and saw that the back consisted of gleaming, hammered gold only.He lifted the object slowly, reverently. It fit neatly in the palm of his hand and was so bright that it flashed in the warm morning light. It was beautiful. It was mesmerizing. It was …Warren heard sudden, frenzied barking from the forest below and jumped to his feet. How had they scaled the hill so fast? How long had he been kneeling beside the skeleton? With a leap up the bank, he was off once more, bounding across the meadow and toward the sheltering forest beyond.

Warren had run perhaps fifteen feet when he realized he’d left the spear point with the skeleton. No time to retrieve it now. By the sound of it, the Finleys’ dogs would burst into the clearing at any moment. He had to make it to the trees—had to disappear into the forest—if he was to have any hope of escaping.

Hope you all enjoyed that! Thanks Novel Publicity for allowing me to take part in this tour!

Quick Review: Return to Me by Tara Fox Hall

2011-12-05T22:45:00.001+03:00

(Click image for goodreads page)

Title: Return to Me

Author: Tara Fox Hall

Started: 5/12/11

Finished: 5/12/11

Medium: eBook for Review

(From Author)

Goodreads Synopsis:

Determined to find the source of the nightly creaking she alone can hear, Sam Reading discovers Harrison Benning, a ghost who becomes corporeal for one night of the year; the summer solstice. Their warm friendship soon becomes powerful love that lasts through decades, tragedies, and even beyond death.

Review:

Return to Me is a romantic story between a ghost and a living girl. This is my second take on a ghost/living relationship and this one was more realistic and sad.

I enjoyed reading it even though it was awfully short. It would to way better with a little more detail and other instances. I felt like everything was rushed more than anything else. But either way, its a sad story that caught me. I'm hoping to see more from the author, especially when she releases her first novel.