Must Monday

Title: Lifted
Author: Wendy Toliver
Price: Undetermined
Release: June 8 2010

Summary: It's not what you steal. It's getting away with it that's so much fun.

Why? The plot of this story sounds cool and I’m always interested in the bad girl books. My inner bad girl needs some sort of out right?

FTC: I am not being compensated for linking this book. It is simply to show others what book I am waiting for.

Cinnamon- VC Andrews

Title: Cinnamon
Author: V.C. Andrews
Price: 4.99

FTC: This is my book that I purchased. I did not receive it from the publisher.

Grade: A
Rating: 15+

Summary: Barnes and Noble
For Cinnamon, dreaming of imaginary worlds and characters is her only escape from her mother's breakdowns. Her grandmother's overbearing control. Her family's turmoil. But Cinnamon is discovering something special about herself, a gift from deep within that sets her apart: a talent for the theatre that would finaly give her a chance...to truly escape.

My Thoughts:
While reading this novel I came up with a new way I wanted to review. I took notes while reading so I wouldn’t forget any little things I had wanted to mention. The first point was that I was almost creped out by the Grandmother and Father relationship. The guy was what, 40 or 50? There was no need for that old woman to be competing with his wife for the man’s love. At least it didn’t turn out they were having an affair but still. That grandmother is one evil witch!

At the point where the characters realize the father was distracted I gave a big no duh. It turns out I was to quick to judge and the reasons weren’t as the seemed! It was good that it didn’t turn out to be so obvious.

Clearance was a hottie! I could just tell from his personality. He’s the kind of guy I wish I could find so it really helped me enjoy the book. I thought the best parts were ones with him in them!

The plot was super unique to me and I loved this book! What a great way to start reading V.C. Andrews!

Quotes:
“Promises are lies wrapped in pretty ribbons.” -Cinnamon

Blogger Interview

Interview with Morgan from http://booksandliteratureforteens.blogspot.com/. If you want to be interviewed please email me at princessashley9 AT gmail.com or comment here with an email address.

1. When and why did you start blogging?
I started blogging in February of 2009 (8 months ago). I started book blogging because I thought it would be fun if people could read my reviews, but more importantly, I wanted to recommend good books to teens. The rest is history...

2. Who inspires you when it comes to blogging?
The person or rather people who inspire me the most to blog is my followers. Without them BLT wouldn't really exist.

3. What is your favorite genre? Favorite books in that genre?
My favorite genre is-here is comes-historical fiction and not many people know this. I do like contemporary fiction, but I tend to get more excited about a new historical fiction book.

My favorite books in this genre would probably be: A Sweet Disorder by Jacqueline Kolosov, anything by Kathryn Laskyor Carolyn Meyer, Jack Mitchell's short roman history books, and Suzanne Dunlap is a pretty good HF writer as well.

4. What book should be a movie?
Well, for the longest time I thought Redwall by Brian Jacques would make a good movie. I've heard rumors......

5. What book do you think should be assigned to students in high school?
I'm not quite sure what books should be assigned in school. I think that we should read classics as well as some more modern fiction (i.e. something we can learn from maybe?)

6. The great debate: Harry Potter or Twilight?
I haven't touched Harry Potter. Yeah I know-I don't like wizards or witches. I've read the Twilight books, but they're not the best books in the world. I guess I'll have to go with vampires, but really, I try to remain neutral on this.

7. Who would you like to be if you could be any fictional character?
I always wanted to be Lucy from The Chronicles of Narnia. Although she was ignored by her older siblings, she was the first to believe in Narnia!

8. Any crushes on made up guys?:)
Cruhes on fictional guys? [blush] Hmm, I don't think so, but I did like Anthony from Lipstick Apology.
EEP me too Morgan!

Secrets of Truth and Beauty

Title: Secrets of Truth and Beauty
Author: Megan Frazer
Publisher: Disney Hyperion
Price: $15.99 USD
Release: July 2009
FTC: I received this book from the publisher before December 2009. I am not being paid to review this novel.

Grade: A
Rating: 13+

Summary: Amazon
At the age of seven, Dara Cohen was so adorable and so talented that she won the title of Little Miss Maine. Now 17, she has definitely become plus-sized. When her English teacher assigns a multimedia autobiography project, Dara decides to use some of her old pageant footage to create a project called (Re)Think Thin and make a statement about how our society views overweight people. Her parents are so angry and humiliated that they pull her out of school and insist that she go into therapy, straining what is already a difficult relationship. Dara decides to contact her sister, whom she has never met and who has been estranged from their parents for years. She spends the summer with Rachel at Jezebel Goat Farm in rural Massachusetts, a collective farm that also serves as a haven for lesbian women and others who are not accepted by their families. As the summer progresses, Dara learns more about herself, her sister, and her family history, and proves that she is indeed talented and beautiful.

My Thoughts:
Before reading this book I had super high expectations. It was just one of “those” books. The kind where you expect so much from them even without knowing a whole lot. After reading it I can say it was a great book but the start was lacking. There was not very much going on there… It was just way to slow. Towards the end everything started happening and it was packed. That’s how I wanted the whole book to be.

The relationships in this novel were amazing! I loved the sister relationship and the Dara/Milo aspect. I felt a real connection to these relationships. I could see each of these as a part of my relationships.

I think everyone should go buy a copy now! Learn to love and respect yourselves girls!!

Random Quote:
*Opening to Random Page* Page is 181. *Touching random spot*

“I need to show you something,” he said.

A Second opinion:
Lexi gave this book 3/5 stars. See her full review http://anotherpageisused.blogspot.com/2009/08/secrets-of-truth-and-beauty-by-megan.html

Wednesday Wishlist

Whats on my wishlist this week? Take a peek!

The Year My Sister Got Lucky
by Aimee Friedman

Summary: Barnes and Noble

Katie and Michaela Wilder are New York City girls...and best friends. But everything changes when they move upstate to rural Fir Lake. Katie is horrified by their new surroundings: the too-friendly neighbors, the lack of a subway, the fact they live near actual cows. She's shocked when Michaela adapts to the country life effortlessly, dating a cute football player and attending homecoming with something resembling enjoyment.

And most shocking of all? She's started keeping secrets from Katie.

Why?

This cover is originally what made me even stop to look at this book. Then I realized who the author was and knew I had to have it! Christmas is coming *wink-wink, mommy dear*

FTC: I am not being compensated in any way for linking this book. It is simply to let people know what book I would like to read!

Blogger Interviews

Today Choco from http://inwhichagirl.blogspot.com/ is here for a chat. Want to be interviewed? Leave me a comment with your email.

1. Secret fictional crush?
Haha. I quite like Mr. Darcy. And Jace from City of Bones, or Patch from Hush, Hush. What can I say? Being snarky is a plus in fictional characters. Not so much in real life though.

2. What book should be a movie? TV Show?
Ooh. I've always wanted to see Charmed Life by Diana Wynne Jones or Alanna: The First Adventure by Tamora Pierce as a movie, especially with so many children's fantasy movies being made nowadays. Same goes for a TV show.

3. Have you ever met any authors face to face? Who?
Nope, never. I have yet to meet one of those geniuses. Although, I did get excited earlier this week because I'd received my first signed book. I mean, a REAL LIVE author actually had to go through the trouble of writing my name on an envelope. So exciting. Hopefully my first of many brushes with godliness.

4. What author would you want to write a collaborative book with? Why?
Diana Wynne Jones. I sort of worship her books. As in, reread them everyday. I still haven't worked up the courage to send her a fan letter. I'd probably die and go to heaven if I was even in close proximity to her, let alone writing with her.

5. What has been your favorite school assigned book? Why?
As a rule of thumb, I hate every book I've had to read for school. It just happens. Once I have to do a project on it or agonize over the symbolic meaning of the weather in a particular scene, I begin to loathe it--Dear Mr. Henshaw never stood a chance. But I did like The Blind Assassin by Margaret Atwood a lot. She's a wonderful writer.

6. What is your goal with your blog?
Just to continue blogging and writing book reviews. I'm fairly new to blogging, but it's so much fun!

7. As a child what book did you love?
I still love the vast majority of the books I've read as a child--I make frequent trips to the children's section in the bookstore. I think the book that really got me to start reading in third grade was The Witches by Roald Dahl. Ooh, and Half Magic by Edward Eager. And of course Harry Potter. Towards the end of elementary school, I became obsessed with books by Diana Wynne Jones.

8. Do you want to write a book? If so what’s it about?
I'm starting on my second book--first one was a middle grade fantasy that took me three years and as I've found, is complete and utter crap. Still writing horribly, but at least I'm giving it my best. I'd like to say I'm being dastardly secretive about my WIP by not telling you much about the plot, but in truth I'm a skittish, all-over-the-place writer so I have no idea. I mean, I'm nearly 20k into this thing, and I haven't an idea of what it's about. I'm writing very oddly with this one--snippets of a hundred or so words, from the middle then the end, then the beginning; and writing backwards and all manner of strange writing habits. It's going to be a horror to piece together if I ever finish.

It's a YA fantasy and involves: a nearly dead body, a maybe-love triangle, a case of very bad plague, lots of beautiful fall trees, much angst, more blood than I can stomach, a girl with an affinity for switchblades, a sadly empty refrigerator, rather too much politics, killer snow, and a smattering of magic.

I really would like to publish a book someday. My writing's nowhere near passable as of now, but this is good practice!

Must Monday

Its that time again! Monday! Take a look at what I'm waiting for this week.

The Secret Year
by Jennifer Hubbard

Summary: (Barnes and Noble)

Take Romeo and Juliet. Add The Outsiders. Mix thoroughly.

Colt and Julia were secretly together for an entire year, and no one—not even Julia's boyfriend— knew. They had nothing in common, with Julia in her country club world on Black Mountain and Colt from down on the flats, but it never mattered. Until Julia dies in a car accident, and Colt learns the price of secrecy. He can't mourn Julia openly, and he's tormented that he might have played a part in her death. When Julia's journal ends up in his hands, Colt relives their year together at the same time that he's desperately trying to forget her. But how do you get over someone who was never yours in the first place?

Why?

This story combines two classics that I love so why wouldn't I? Also my best friend and fellow blogger Lexi (anotherpageisused.blogspot.com) gave it a great review and made me want to read it even more!

FTC: I am not getting compensated in any way from the publisher nor the author for linking this book. I am simply showing people what I want to read.

New Policy's- Important

Recently it has become important for bloggers to have a policy in place for contests and such. I would like to thank Kristy from thestorysiren.com for bringing this to my attention. Please take a moment to read this as it is all important.

Contest Policy:

Please read before entering any contests that I host:

• If you leave me an email I will get in contact with you to let you know you have won. If you don’t leave me an email another winner will be selected.
• After I email you, I give you three days to respond. If you don’t email me back I will select a new winner.
• Contests are only open to US residence unless otherwise noted.

Privacy Policy:

I know I have many readers on my blog and that not all of you are 13 or older. In order to enter my contest you need to be 13+ or use a parents email, not your own. This is the general age that all sites use (i.e. Facebook, and web contests).

When you enter my contest you are leaving an email. I do not use your email for anything other then contacting you if you win. I can not promise however that someone else may leave your personal information be. Feel free to use an alias but I need the email. If you are fewer than 13 years of age simply comment and say that you are under 13 but would like to be entered. Then have your parent leave a separate comment with their email.

If you are the winner of a contest you will have to give me your address. If you are under 13 I will need the address to come from your parents. Obviously I can’t prove that it’s them emailing me but please be honest for your own personal safety! After your book or prize is sent I will no longer keep your address or contact info. I will also not give it away nor sell it.

I care for all of my readers so please be careful with the information you share here and on any site. Once I figure out how to use a form I will so your info will be kept protected even more!

You're the One That I Want

Title: You’re the One That I Want
Author: Cecily von Ziegesar
Publisher: Little Brown
Price: $9.99 USD PB
Release: October 2004
FTC: I purchased this novel with my own money. I did not receive it from the publisher and am not being paid in any way to review this book.

Grade: B
Rating: 14+

Summary: Amazon
Enter the world of Gossip Girl -- and watch us drown in luxury while indulging in our favorite sports -- jealousy, betrayal, and late-night bar-hopping. Well, the moment of truth has finally arrived. Everyone's back from a week of apr?s-ski hot tub fun in Sun Valley and cream-colored envelopes from the Ivy League are beginning to drop all over Fifth Avenue doorsteps. The question is: are the envelopes thick or thin? Has Nate's devotion to his misbehaving heiress dimmed his chances of getting into Brown? Is Blair too busy daydreaming in Eric's old pinstriped oxfords to remember her real mission in life -- Yale?? Hopefully Serena can snap her newest-and-oldest-best-friend out of it. That is, if Serena hasn't already become too much of a vapid, celery-eating supermodel to even care. Everyone is so consumed with who's getting in where that they're forgetting an even more important question: will everyone graduate?

My Thoughts:
I use to LOVE the Gossip Girl series, now I just like it. Why, you might ask. The tv show has ruined it for me. I no longer feel the same connection to the story because I watch the show and it has been taken a whole different direction.

As for this Gossip Girl in general, it was average. There have been better books in the series so this just wasn’t A worthy. The Plot was unique and carried on at a good flow but it just bugged me how different it was then this part on the show. I do think everyone should read this series and THEN watch the show. Don’t do both at one time because you will constantly be comparing and it does you no good. Just take some time to enjoy these without a designated cast (:

Random Quote:
*I’m opening to a random page* The random page is 126. *Touching Random spot*

He wanted her to feel like the entire night had been a mistake.

Blogger Interview

Interview with Bianca from http://wickedgoodbooks.blogspot.com/. If you would like an interview email me at princessashley9ATgmail.com or comment with your email here.

1. Do you like supernatural books? If so what creature do you prefer? (Vamps, werewolfs, etc.)
I haven't read a ton of supernatural books, but I have found myself getting more into them. I probably prefer reading about wizards/wizards!

2. Do you prefer single title or series books?
I prefer single titles, because sometimes waiting for the next book in a series can be horrible, if I really like them! At the same time, I do enjoy reading a series with 3 or 4 books, because if it's really good, I always want to know what happens next!

3. Who is your favorite male character in any book? Female?
It's kinda hard for me to pick. I love Charlie from the Perks of Being A Wallflower and Dexter from This Lullaby. I love Hermione Granger from Harry Potter, because I think she is the epitome of a brave, smart girl!

4. Tell us three unique things about you
I am one of the techies for the shows at my school! I absolutely LOATHE math, like it's ridiculous how much I hate it. It is my dream to go to Boston University, once I graduate high school!

5. What book can you not wait for it to be released?
I absolutely can not wait for The Unwritten Rule by Elizabeth Scott. *squee*

6. Do you like romance novels? Whats your favorite one?
I love romance novels. Perfect You by Elizabeth Scott is AMAZING and This Lullaby by Sarah Dessen was great, too!

7. Do you listen to music well you blog? If so what do you listen to?
I am ALWAYS listening to music. It's pretty much anything from the RENT soundtrack to John Mayer.

8. Do you snack well you read ocassionally? If so what do you eat? Are you a carrot girl or a candy bar girl? :)
Sometimes I do. If I'm not chewing gum, I'll probably be eating something like cheez-its or some kind of sweets! XD

Thanks for letting me interview you!!

The Lost Sister

Before I begin my review I would just like to say... MY SISTER JUST CALLED MY BOOK REVIEWING STUPID :'( It was very upsetting. I love reviewing and get upset when people put it down. Anyways... Moving on.

Title: The Lost Sister
Author: Megan Kelly Hall
Publisher: Kensington
Price: $9.95
Release: August 2009
FTC: I received this book before December 2009 from the publisher.

Grade: A
Rating: 13+

Summary: (Amazon)
Sisters are born, not chosen. . .

Maddie Crane is grappling with the disappearance of Cordelia LeClaire, and trying to escape the grasp of The Sisters of Misery--an insidious clique of the school's most powerful girls, whose pranks have set off a chain of horrific events, and who have Maddie in their sights-
Beware the sister betrayed. . .

Now in a prestigious boarding school far away from her mysterious hometown of Hawthorne, Massachusetts, Maddie feels free from danger. But when an unmarked envelope arrives at her dorm containing a single ominous tarot card, Maddie realizes with terror that some secrets won't stay buried. Knowing she must return to Hawthorne--a town still scarred by the evil of the Salem witch trials--Maddie prepares to face the fears of her past. . .and the wrath of the sister she wronged.

My Thoughts: I thought that this novel was incredibly well written. The suspense kept me going through the whole thing; I felt that it was written in a way that even those occasional book readers could love it. I think anyone who has read the first book should go buy a copy now!!!

Random Quote: *opening book to random page* It opens on page 151. *Touching random spot*.
For a moment, Maddie could almost feel the tender touch of Tess as she led her out of the store last year.

Second Helpings:
Mrs. Magoo gave it an A. See her wonderful review! http://www.mrsmagooreads.com/2009/08/lost-sister.html
The Book Muncher gave it a 4.25. Here fantastic review: http://thebookmuncher.blogspot.com/2009/08/lost-sister-by-megan-kelley-hall.html

Wednesday Wishlist

Whats on my wishlist this week? Take a peek!

Summer Girls
by Hailey Abbott

Synopsis
In SUMMER BOYS, Beth, Ella, and Kelsi ruled Pebble Beach. Now it's time for 3 new girls to rock the summer.

JESSICA: Liam is the cutest guy I've ever seen and he loves the beach as much as I do. So how do I show him I'd make a better girlfriend than friend?

GREER I could be tanning on glam French beaches, but instead I'm "family-bonding" in Maine. At least the boys are hot - especially Brady. So what if he has a clingy ex-girlfriend?

LARA: Just my luck. I've fallen hard for the one boy who's totally off limits. If only I could stop kissing him...

Why? I LOVED Summer Boys and Hailey's writing style. It was adorable but also had the romance a teen novel needs.

Blogger Interview

Interview with Carol from http://www.bookluver-carol.blogspot.com/. If you would like to be interviewed please email me at princessashley9ATgmail.com or comment with your email here.

When and why did you start blogging?
I started blogging about a year and a half ago. I don't know why I started blogging. I just saw it as a fun thing to do, so I started my blog.

Who is your favorite author and why?
I don't have one favorite author; I have many. Among them are Cassandra Clare, Kristin Cashore, Courtney Summers, Mahbod Seraji, Lisa Mantchev and Christine Fletcher.

What bloggers inspire you?
Many bloggers inspire me. The list would just go on and on. But I won't include any bloggers here because I don't want anyone to feel left out. (And yes, this is a cop-out :D)

What book is most like your life?
I've yet to read a book that is most like my life, but most books have small aspects that are similar to my life, or have aspects that I wished were in my life.

As a child what book did you love?
When I was a child I loved the Dr. Seuss books, Arthur series, and Where the Wild Things Are. There are many more but I have forgotten them. Even when I was a young tot I read tons of books. So many that I used to have my dad take me to the library every other day. I was so glad that the library was only two blocks away otherwise I wouldn't have gone as much as I did.

Do you want to write a book? If so what’s it about?
Yes, I would like to write a book but I find it hard to keep my butt on my chair and let the words flow out. My book would be about different things, I guess. A YA contemporary with an urban fantasy twist. Or a dystopian novel that focuses on contemporary issues. There are many genres that I would like to write about.

Anything unique about you or your blog?
I think that the only thing unique about my blog is my voice. Other than that, my blog has a lot of things that other blogs have: reviews, interviews, waiting-on-Wednesday, and giveaways.

Do you prefer single title or series books?
Both. I like series' because I have more time to spend with the characters and the world that the author created. I like stand-alones because I don't have to anxiously wait for the sequel to come out.

Thanks for interviewing me!
No problem Carol. Thanks for allowing me to interview you!

Must Monday

This week here is what I'm pining for!

Keep Sweet
by Michele Dominguez Greene

Released March 9 2010. Be ready :)

Synopsis
Alva Jane has never questioned her parents, never questioned her faith, never questioned her future. She is content with the strict rules that define her life in Pineridge, the walled community where she lives with her father, his seven wives, and her twenty-eight siblings. This is the only world Alva has ever known, and she has never thought to challenge it.

But everything changes when Alva is caught giving her long-time crush an innocent first kiss. Beaten, scorned, and now facing a forced marriage to a violent, fifty-year old man, Alva suddenly realizes how much she has to lose—and how impossible it will be to escape.

Why? Well just look at this book! It's super cool looking and also the plot is unique. The cover also makes me want to read it. Very creepy yet seductive.

A movie worth noting

Today I'm not feeling well so I decided to be kind of lazy and just tell you all to go see The Ugly Truth. My friend just bought it and its awesome. I would go buy it but its rated R and I'm not 17 yet. Hopefully I'll get it for Christmas. Anyone else seen it? Thoughts?

Prada and Prejudice

Title: Prada and Prejudice
Author: Mandy Hubbard
Publisher: Razor bill
Price: $8.99
Release: June 11 2009
Ftc: This is my friends book. I did not receive it from a publisher or author.

Grade: B
Rating: 12+

Summary: (Amazon)
Fifteen-year-old Callie's class trip to England is, like most things in her life, remarkably unremarkable. Ever since she was overheard making a derogatory remark about cheerleaders by one of the most popular girls in school, Callie has been permanently on the D list. To her misery and embarrassment, she has been ditched by her class-trip buddy, leaving her stranded at their London hotel. A scheme to join fellow classmates on a surreptitious trip to a hot club leads to her tripping spectacularly over her new Prada heels. Upon waking from her blackout, Callie discovers that she has been transported to Regency England and is now the long-lost American friend of Emily, a well-to-do teenager. True to her character, she makes a series of faux pas with the titled gentry, earning her the disapproval of a matriarch and a dashing 19-year-old duke. Although her adjustment to an 1815 lifestyle is rough, she begins to appreciate her friendship with Emily and her surprising budding romance with the duke. Callie's perpetual awkwardness, chronic foot-in-mouth syndrome, spiritedness, and openness make her genuinely likable. Endearingly funny episodes involving a Heart and Soul pianoforte duet and a CPR rescue in front of an astonished crowd are contrasted with Callie's determination to rescue Emily from an engagement to a suitor 30 years her senior.

My thoughts:
This novel was not what I expected but it was still very good! The plot was obviously super unique and had a nice flow. Callie was a loveable character and the I could just sense how the duke was a major hottie. The chemistry was undeniable which makes for a nice love story. I would say younger teens who like historical romances will love this book!



Random quote: *opening book to random page* The page is 133. *Touching random spot*
You are not a lady. I remember his words and bite back the urge to smile. Is it so easy to forget your whispered promises?

Lipstick Apology

Title: Lipstick Apology
Author: Jennifer Jabaley
Publisher: Razor bill
Price: $9.99 USD
Release: August 2009
FTC: I received this book from the publisher before December 2009.

Grade: A
Rating: 13+

Summary: (Amazon)
Sometimes a good-bye is just the beginning…
When Emily Carson’s parents die in a plane crash, she’s left with nothing but her mother’s last words scrawled in lipstick on a tray table: “Emily, please forgive me.”
Now its fall and Emily moves to New York City— where she attracts the attention of two very different boys: the cute, popular Owen, and her quirky chemistry partner, Anthony. With the help of some surprising new friends, Emily must choose between the boy who helps her forget and the one who encourages her to remember, and ultimately heal.

My Thoughts:
I hadn’t been expecting much when I picked up this novel because I hadn’t seen a ton of greatness from debut authors lately. Damn was I mistaken!!! This is possibly the best book I have read in the past few months! I loved how honest it was and how realistic the emotions were. I did predict the ending from the start but it was the only ending that would make me happy!

Owen reminded me so much of a guy I know, as did Anthony. I had my fun with my own Owen in the same way Emily did. I also realized I liked my Anthony as she did. Luckily for her it wasn’t too late.

The death was handled very tactfully and I felt the Emily was shown going through a real grieving process. None of this, oh dang they’re dead, moving on crap. I loved how Jolie and Emily had to lean on each other to make it through.

So as for whom I recommend this to I’d say all teen girls. There were so many real aspects in it that are important. Teenage drinking (and throwing up), the keeping of the V-card, and break-ups. Not all of us have lost are parents but that’s an important issue as well. So go buy a copy now. DON’T WAIT

Random Quote: *Opening book to random page* The page is 128. *Touching random spot*

“Honey, I’m home,” I called as I practically skipped through the front door of the apartment that afternoon. “How was your day? Mine was blissfully wonderfully awesome!”

Blogger Interview

Interview with Jordan from http://insidethemindjm.blogspot.com/ today. If you want an interview here please email me at Princessashley9 (at) gmail.com and include your blog link.

1. What two authors should write a book together? What kind of book?
Hmm, that is kind of a hard one. I think it would be really cool if Kelley Armstrong and The Cast's (P.C. & Kristin) got together and wrote a really awesome supernatural book. They are probably my favortire author as of right now so I think it would be really cool to combine the two.

2. Favorite picture book? YA Book? Adult book?
Well, Im not too sure if I have a favorite picture book, but YA (as of right now) would be The Summoning by Kelley Armstrong. And adult, another I'm not too sure. I have read half way through, The Host by Stephenie Meyer and that was good, though I haven't finsihed it, but I really haven't read many Adult books though I do plan to.

3. What is unique to your blog?
Hmm, again that is a kind of tough one. I think maybe the way thatI do my reviews. They aren't very formal. I just kind of write what is on my mind and what I am thinking. I know that some people may read books and then write the reviews later but I have to write the review as soon as I am done. That way my thoughts are fresh and I write just what comes along.

4. What is the goal behind your blog?
I think my goal is to help others get opinions about books and open peoples eyes to all the books that are out there. I know when I first started I had never heard of most of the books that I now love and if I hadnt have started blogging I probably still wouldn't know about them.

5. What do you like about blogging?
What I like about blogging is meeting other people and reading their reviews and having people read what I thought about books. It makes me feel kind of special to know that people are interested in what I have to think and sometimes base whether they want to read the book on what I, and other bloggers, thought about the books.

6. Do you plan on attending a book convention?
Eventually, I would love to go to a convention. Unfortunately where I live there are many author events, and I dont have a job so I cant really afford to travel for them. But one day I will be going! lol

7. Do you tell all your friends you blog and review? What do they think?
I have told some of my friends that I blog and review books. Some think its cool, others dont really say anything. My dad gets annoyed becasue he says that I have more books than I can read but what he doesnt realize is that my stack of TBR books is nothing campared to some out there. :) My brother on the other hand, loves it and is thinking about starting one himself, but for video games and books. He has actually done two for my blog.
The Demon King - Cinda Williams Chima
The Alchemyst - Michael Scott

8. Opinion on banned books?
Ok, so this one I am going to try and keep short because, well I think it is just plain STUPID!!!!! I understand that some parents find things in books to be offensive, but why should everyone be punished. If they dont want their kids reading something than they should monitor them in the library or at schools, they should send home forms. I think there are more parents out there that don't care what their kids read versus parents that do care. I just think that there are other ways of going about keeping kids from reading certain books than banning them from everyone else.

Thanks for having me on your blog.

Wednesday Wishlist

Here is a random book from my wishlist today!

Prom Crashers
by Erin Downing

Summary: Barnes and Noble

Will you go to the proms with me?

It was love at first sight for Emily and Ethan. But then Em lost his number and, with it, all the hope of finding a real boyfriend before the end of senior year. All she knows about Ethan is his first name, that he has a supercute smile, and that he's going to a prom this month. Which high school? That's anyone's guess....

Em enlists the help of her three best friends, who quickly score formal wear and hail a limo. Together, Emily, Max and Sid vow to find Ethan, to find a cure for senioritis, and most important, to find true love — one hilarious prom night at a time.

My thoughts: Not only is the cover and title cool but its a book about prom's. Everyone wants to see what other people (even if they are pretend) experience on prom night :)

Must Monday... On Tuesday

Okay, okay, I suck! I forgot to set this to post Monday so here it is!

The Heart is Not a Size

Beth Kephart

Sumnmary: Barnes and Noble
Georgia convinces her parents to let her travel with a group to Juarez, Mexico, to help improve life for those living in a devastatingly poor area of the border town. Despite the poor living conditions and threats to personal safety, Georgia believes she can make a difference. Leaving behind her comfortable life in Pennsylvania, she spends her time under the hot Mexican sun building, of all things, a community toilet for the local natives. Going along for the experience is Georgia's best friend, Riley. Giving up the comforts of home are harder on Riley, who enjoys shopping and looking her best at whetever she does. Georgia knows she'll be able to handle the heat and the hard physical labor, but she has her doubts about Riley. There's been something bothering her about her best friend, but she hasn't been able to confront her. Georgia knows that Riley is constantly striving to live up to her mother's high expectations. In an effort to please her mother, Riley seems to have stopped eating. Georgia knows what is going on but doesn't know how to deal with the problem. She has hopes that the time together will give her an opportunity to rescue her friend.

Why I want it: All the feedback I have heard has been great so obviously I’m going to want to check it out!

If I Stay

Title: If I Stay
Author: Gayle Forman
Publisher: Dutton
Price: $16.99 USD HB
Release: April 2 2009

Grade: A
Rating: 12+

FTC: I received this novel from the publisher before December 1st.

Summary: (Amazon)
The last normal moment that Mia, a talented cellist, can remember is being in the car with her family. Then she is standing outside her body beside their mangled Buick and her parents' corpses, watching herself and her little brother being tended by paramedics. As she ponders her state (Am I dead? I actually have to ask myself this), Mia is whisked away to a hospital, where, her body in a coma, she reflects on the past and tries to decide whether to fight to live.

My Thoughts:
When I first heard about this novel I knew it was one I needed to read. I’m the sappy girl, chick-lit lover as many people prefer to say. The relationship aspect was enough to lure me in because come on, who doesn’t want that long lasting love in High School? I sure do. While reading this my boyfriend dumped me. I fell asleep the first night thinking about Mia and Adam. They are just perfect and I kept going, “I want him.”

The death aspect was also a huge pull me in factor. I have lost many people close to me in my life so the idea of having a choice between leaving and staying was a nice thought. I won’t give away the ending but when Mia finally made her choice my heart started palpitating. It was exactly what her choice needed to be. So all in all I think you all should read this book. It was heart-wrenching and heartwarming all in one. Get yourself a copy now.

PS. I hear rumors of a movie. Don’t pull an Ashley and see the movie first (:

Blogger Interview

Today Christina from http://www.flipthepagebookreview.blogspot.com/ is here to chat. If you would like to be interviewed please comment with your email address.

1.Do you have any must haves for blogging? Snacks? Music?
A: Well i LOVE to have my ipod on while I'm blogging! I have a habit of making playlists for everything so I'm constantly listening to music 24/7! Snacks are an absolute no no when it comes to the computer! While im on the computer i have these little flashes of me spilling juice or something all over the keyboard and the modem! I'm getting anxious just thinking about it!

2. What book did you struggle to get into but end up loving?
A: The Pace by Shelena Shorts was a little lifeless in the beginning but as i read more and more into it i started getting the feel of the characters and i ended up falling in love with it! It's a relief when the books endings are well worth the wait! Another book that was kind of like that was the first of the combined volumes of The Vampire Diaries (The Awakening and The Struggle)! At first i was really disinterested in the characters but by the end of The Struggle i was just begging for more!

3.What is your favorite book you’ve read this past month?
A: Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick was BEYOND amazing! Also, How It Ends by Laura Weiss! Patch is such a hottie and the plot was crazy awesome! How It Ends seriously had me bawling crying, laughing hysterically and gasping in horror all within the same book! Both of those books are forever on my Favorites list now!

4. What does your review system look like?
A: I have a simple review system- Total Bomb, So So, Great and Incredible. Right now I'm working on breaking it down a little bit like including character, plot, cover and ending ratings, so followers should definitely be looking out for that soon. I'm a real sucker when it comes to rating books because i've never had a Total Bomb and i barely have any So So's. I try to find the good in every novel so i don't think I'll ever be like "Oh My God this book freaking sucked!" But in my reviews i always try to be as honest as possible!

5. Do you like looking at the marketing plans on the back of ARC’s? Why or why not?
A: I just started getting ARC's so everything about them fascinates me! I feel like if i open them there is gonna be like a million bucks in there or something! I'm a real business minded person so i try to suck in as much stuff about marketing, trades and publicity as possible.

6. Do you like reading or writing more?
A: That is a super hard one! My ultimate dream in life is to be a YA writer! I'm currently working on a couple of projects right now so of course i'd love to be published on day. However, being an author, a successful author at that is extremely hard to do! You have to be really artistictly gifted to dedicate all your time and effort into something that will really sell and get the public's attention and i'm really not sure if i have that or not! Reading is more of a hobby then a job to me so it really doesn't take a lot to do. With writing you have to give your all and at this point in my life i really don't have that much to give!

7. Complete this sentence: Reading is…
A: Essential to our lives. A passion, a love and an escape. You can go anywhere or do anything just with the will to read.

8. Would you prefer sappy books or gory books? Why?
A: I love books with lessons. Reading is a way for me to kind of learn not to make some kinds of mistakes without really making them myself! I guess those kinds of books are usually more sappy! Gory boks are great too but i'm into the romance and the life lessons and the heartbreak more then the mystery and suspense! Of course if you know a book that has all that please let me know because it would be a dream!

Angus, Thongs, and Full Frontal Snogging

Title: Angus, Thongs and Full-Frontal Snogging
Author: Louise Rennison
Publisher: HarperTempest
Price: $6.99 USD PB
Release: April 2001
FTC: This is my friend purchased book. I did not receive it from an author or publisher.

Grade: B
Rating: 14+

Summary: (Amazon)
She has a precocious 3-year-old sister who tends to leave wet nappies at the foot of her bed, an insane cat who is prone to leg-shredding "Call of the Wild" episodes, and embarrassing parents who make her want to escape to Stonehenge and dance with the Druids. No wonder 14-year-old Georgia Nicolson laments, "Honestly, what is the point?" A Bridget Jones for the younger set, Georgia records the momentous events of her life--and they are all momentous--in her diary, which serves as a truly hilarious account of what it means to be a modern girl on the cusp of womanhood. No matter that her particular story takes place in England, the account of her experiences rings true across the ocean (and besides, "Georgia's Glossary" swiftly eradicates any language barriers).

My Thoughts:
To be honest I was not excited to read this book. About 3 or 4 years ago I had tried and hated it. When my friend told me to try again I had to be forced into it. I am glad I did! It was nice to escape the common American plot and experience some European. I also liked that Georgia spoke some French even though it was mostly bad words. The French teacher flipped when I asked what Merde meant!!! J The plot was super unique and the characters likeable. Georgia could be a BEY-OTCH but that made me like her even more. Oh, and come on. This book has a SEX GOD! What’s not to love! Check it out guys.

P.S. There is a movie too. Not here yet, but in Europe.

Blogger Interview

Today Kelsey from http://thebookscout.blogspot.com/ is here to chat. Want to be interviewed? Leave me a comment with your email addy.

What is your favorite fairytale? Why?
Hmmm I love so many of them but probably Snow White. I love animals as well and the dwarfs have always had a special place in my heart(:

Do you like to write as well as read? Anything you’re working on?
I love writing. I've begun so many stories, I can't even count, but for some reason I can never stick with them... I really should be working on something at the moment (cough cough English paper cough cough)

Complete this sentence: My life can be seen in the book…
Harry Potter! Not the wizard part, but in Harry Potter friendship and family are really important and that's how it is for me.

What book character would you like to hang out with? Why?
Jacky from the Bloody Jack series by L.A. Meyer. I just love her spunk and sense of adventure.

Where do you like to read?
I read in this comfortable bean bag in my room, as well as in bed, on the couch, in stores, outside... pretty much anywhere I can sit with a book!

Why did you begin blogging?
I felt like I was reading so many books and that was great, but I wanted to do something more with these books. I wanted to tell people about the books I loved (and didn't love) and thought writing reviews would be a great way to share my love of reading. I really liked the idea of talking with other people about books and having other people read books because of something I said.

Who inspires you? Why?
My parents do, because both of them love reading. Authors everywhere inspire me as well. It's amazing how talented all of you are! Keep on writing!

What my Girlfriend Doesnt Know

Title: What my Girlfriend Doesn’t Know
Author: Sonya Sones
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Price: $7.99 USD PB
Release: December 16th 2008

Grade: B
Rating: 13+

Summary: (Amazon.com)
Robin's life at Cambridge High School is miserable. The arty outsider's last name becomes the pejorative slang of the school—as in, "Don't be such a Murphy." His lot improves, however, when popular Sophie becomes his girlfriend despite the detriment to her reputation. Better still, the freshman is invited to audit an art class at Harvard. It is his homecoming; for once, he is the comedian rather than the butt of jokes. One of the college freshmen even shows some romantic interest in him.

My Thoughts:
I will admit that I liked this book even though the characters are younger teens (something I’m not always fond of). There was an aspect of sexuality that was undeniable but it was where you least expected it.

After reading many books in verse I have begun to know what is good and what isn’t. This was above average but not fantastic as I expect from Sonya. There was just something missing that I couldn’t wrap my mind around. I felt that it took away from the plot.

I would say this is a worth while read for fans of books in verse.

FTC: This is my little sisters purchased book. I did not receive it from a publisher or author.

Wednesday Wishlist

Title: Charmed and Dangerous (Clique Prequel)
Author: Lisi Harrison
Publisher: Poppy
Price: $15.99
Release: October 27th

Summary:

Once upon a time, in Westchester and Orlando, there were four betas just waiting for their alpha. It took a miracle to bring the Pretty Committee together--or rather, a New Year's Yves party. Because sometimes when you meet someone, it just cliques.

Massie Block: Is destined to lead, but trapped as a beta in the Ahnabees, the top clique at PMS (Presbyterian Middle School). She has ah-mazing ideas--Friday night sleepovers, Gossip Points, and atching charm bracelets. When will it be her time to rule?

Alicia Rivera: Is dying to lead the Body Alive Dance Studio Squad. With the captain on vaca­tion, BADSS's live performance on Merri Lee Marvil's New Year's Yves show is her chance to shine. Will she prove herself alpha-worthy--or will she need to find a whole new clique?

Dylan Marvil: Is done, done, and done with people kissing her teeny-tiny butt just because her mom is famous. But who would be brave enough to stand up to someone so Marvilous?

Kristen Gregory: Has made a New Year's reso­lution to make friends and get a life. Escape from Planet Loser starts . . . now!

Claire Lyons: Is psyched times ten to win a last-minute invitation to the New Year's Yves satellite party in Orlando. But first she needs to sneak out of the house. And the countdown to midnight begins in ten . . . nine . . . eight . . .

Why I want it: I have been a long time Clique fan and I think it’d be cool to see where it all started! We all know how catty the girls are but why are they that way?

Blogger Interview

Today Mandy from http://www.edgeoseventeen.blogspot.com/ is here to chat. If you want interviewed please leave a comment with your email address.

When and why did you start blogging?
I was a longtime fan of YA book blogs Bookshelves of Doom and The Story Siren. I was a lurker and hardly ever left comments or really got into any of the blogging community. I was working at an independent bookstore (I'm still there) and reading a lot, rekindling my love for Teen Lit, when a cool blog called a book a week run by Kiirstin gave me an idea. It wasn't that phenomenal of an idea, it basically said "Hey, I could probably do that too". I think my blog is like 2 or 3 months old. But I basically started Edge of Seventeen because I wanted a space to claim my love of books.

Who is your favorite author and why?
Favorites are hard to call. I can say, though, that my favorite genre is Dystopian Teen. I love the mystery to be solved in most dystopian books, like where do these people live, how did it get this bad, and how can it be fixed? One book that rocked my world is How I Live Now by Meg Rosoff. Genesis by Bernard Beckett is also a great read.

What bloggers inspire you?
The bloggers who inspire me are the ones I stumble on when I'm blog-hopping who baby their blogs. They write reviews and do interviews and whatever everyone else does, but they do it with unmistakable heart and verve. I love stumbling on an extra-specially-crafted blog entry that makes me proud to be a reader and a blogger.

What book is most like your life?
Hmm, this is a hard one. My life isn't like this but I would love to live in the setting of Libba Bray's Gemma Doyle trilogy; turn-of-the-century boarding school with a witchy twist.

Secret fictional crush?
Not so secret as I'll tell anyone who listens: the Weasley twins. Although I have a past with Valmont from Dangerous Liaisons. And even Richard III, from the play. Maybe I should keep this last one a secret :)

What book should be a movie? TV Show?
I would love to see a Pretty Little Liars TV series. It would totally translate to live action. Also, I've been reading The Maze Runner by James Dashner and it is amazing. This book would be an awesome movie!

Have you ever met any authors face to face? Who?
We have a lot of author events at the bookstore I work at, so I've met a lot of different authors like Joseph Boyden and even David Suzuki. But my favorite contact with authors has been interviewing them. You get to ask them in-depth questions about their books and I always get some great, insightful answers. There is something SO COOL about asking an author questions about a book they've written. Some interviews and correspondence with authors I've truly loved happened with Meg Rosoff, Bernard Beckett, Shannon Hale, Becca Fitzpatrick, Robin Brande...actually, you know, I've loved all the interviews I've had with teen authors. They've all been a great experience.

What author would you want to write a collaborative book with? Why?
Probably Libba Bray. The woman is hilarious. I'm not sure we'd get a lot of work done, but it would be comedic gold. My role would maybe just be contributing the title, or writing up the jacket blurb.

Must Monday

Heartless (Pretty Little Liars Series #7)
by Sara Shepard

Publisher: Harperteen
Release: January 19th 2010?

I have been hearing mixed dates of release so expect this novel sometime between the 9th of this month and January 19th.

Why I want this:

Well if any of you read the Pretty Little Liars series it is bound to be obvious! We need to know what is going to happen!!! Everything is heating up and I want to know the end. If you don’t read this series you really should!!!

Where People Like Us Live

Title: Where People like Us Live
Author: Patricia Cumbie
Publisher: HarperCollins
Price: $19.89 USD HB
Release: June 23rd 2009

Grade: B
Rating: 14+

Summary: Amazon
Libby is used to moving from state to state following her father's downward spiral of temporary employment. Rubberville contains the usual factories, discouraged neighbors, and hardscrabble life. But this time Libby makes a best friend right away. Angie-brassy and seemingly fearless—looks a lot older than Libby, although they will both be high school freshmen in the fall. There's a lot about Angie to disturb readers, such as the way she forces Libby to stand too close to an oncoming train, but Libby is smitten with her. She does pick up on the creep factor in Angie's stepfather, who is both menacing and flirtatious. When she stumbles on them having oral sex, she is thrown off-kilter. Should she keep silent to protect her friend, which is what Angie asks her to do, or tell and get help? The best-friend-of-the-abused trope has become a fixture of YA literature. What makes this book stand out is not literary quality but the gritty and honest exploration of Libby's confusion about sexuality, coercion, friendship, and power. Honest, too, is the portrayal of Angie, a girl who has had to develop extreme defenses to survive and who is so in need of love that she can't distinguish between nurture and exploitation. Angie is no pitiful victim, thankfully, but rather a tough, damaged girl who has learned to survive.

My Thoughts:
This book was about as good as I expected. I love books about sexual abuse, not because I like it but because I am fascinated by the human nature that could drive a person to want someone they should be caring for as a parent. This novel discussed this matter but in a tactful manner. There was only one time that was graphic and even then it was necessary for it to be like that. The characters were all well developed and unique. There were no two comparable characters; each person played an important role in the book. The choices that had to be made by Libby were connectable to me. I have never had a friend who I knew was sexually abused but I did have a friend who cut. I had to make the choice Libby made, wither to protect my friend or my friendship. Its not always the easy one to make.

FTC: I received this book from the publisher before December 1st 2009