A Brush of Darkness by Allison Pang

Summary/Cover Image from Publisher's Website:

The man of her dreams might be the cause of her nightmares.

Six months ago, Abby Sinclair was struggling to pick up the pieces of her shattered life. Now, she has an enchanted iPod, a miniature unicorn living in her underwear drawer, and a magical marketplace to manage. But despite her growing knowledge of the OtherWorld, Abby isn't at all prepared for Brystion, the dark, mysterious, and sexy-as- sin incubus searching for his sister, convinced Abby has the key to the succubus's whereabouts. Abby has enough problems without having this seductive shape-shifter literally invade her dreams to get information. But when her Faery boss and some of her friends vanish, as well, Abby and Brystion must form an uneasy alliance. As she is sucked deeper and deeper into this perilous world of faeries, angels, and daemons, Abby realizes her life is in as much danger as her heart—and there's no one she can trust to save her.

Review:

Just when I thought I've seen about it all in paranormal books comes Allison Pang's A Brush of Darkness with its strong, witty lead characters, a paranormal world that's nearly unlike anything I've read about before, a swoon-worthy incubus love interest, and most importantly, a unicorn. A Brush of Darkness truly is the one of the rock stars in urban fantasy, and that makes it something really special, in my opinion.

If you told Abby six months ago that she would soon be the touchstone of a faery, fighting off monsters, and falling slowly in love with a incubus, she probably would've have laughed you off. Because six months ago, she had a life filled with dancing and success, but after a sudden, life-changing accident, she falls into a life of despair and darkness. Though, now with her new life, as well as her sidekick unicorn and enchanted i pod, she's living a nice life. Well, until the faery she's touchstoned to and Brystion's, the incubus mentioned above, sister go missing. At first, Abby thinks is nothing, but as more people start to disappear, she knows something up, so now it's up to her and Brystion to save the day. But will they be able to put aside their differences to do this? And how far will Abby go to prove to Brystion that he is the guy for her? Only time will will tell in this deeply enchanting tale of touchstones, incubus, a soul playing violinist, angels, and unicorns that will leave you eager for more, more, and more.

Out of all the parts I loved in A Brush of Darkness, I would have to say my absolute favorite would be the characters, Abby is particular. Abby is someone who's been through a hell and back, but that doesn't stop her from living her life to the fullest, because with everything that's happened to her, she knows that life is a precious gift, even if it may not seem like it sometimes. And with that new opinion of the world, she's brave and fearless, someone who would go to the end of the world to save the new friends she has made, and all this made her someone that was not only relatable and likable, but someone who was also easy to root for. Better yet, I loved her relationship with Brystion, the sexy incubus, who's truly the trademark bad boy with a good heart. For one, it developed at a reasonable speed, and it was based on so much more than just attraction, which I liked. In addition to this, I have to say I loved the Abby's unicorn, who was crude, funny, and just delightful all around as well as Mel, Abby's best friend.

Another part of this book I enjoyed was the world Allison created within it. At first, the whole idea of touchstones and the different people of this urban fantasy world could be a little confusing, but after a while it set it's place, quickly becoming something that when mixed with a plot full of twist and turns and paranormal goodness and Allison's writing, which made this book move at a rapid pace, was nearly flawless.

And the ending? Cliff-hanger-ish but in the best kind of way, because now I can't wait to read the sequel!

In all, A Brush of Darkness is a book I highly, highly suggest to all urban fantasy fans out there. Engaging, fun, and fast paced, it will have even the most reluctant readers clamoring for more.

Grade: A-

A Brush of Darkness is now out!

Source: Simon and Schuster's Galley Grab

Winners + Other Bookish Related News!

Winners:

Victoria Laurie's Ghouls, Ghouls, Ghouls:

Amanda G

Kate H

Bree Despain's The Lost Saint + Nail Polish:

Books:

Katie P

Elizabeth H

Nail Polish:

Alison

Michelle Moran's Madame Tussaud + Earrings:

Briana

Congrats everyone! I've emailed you all, and you should be receiving your books shortly.

~~

The Emerson Witches:

I was recently emailed by the author of the supernatural book The Emerson Witches Samantha C Ross. Samantha is hoping to get the book published some day soon, but until then she's hoping to create a pre-release fan base by creating a website in which readers can learn more about the characters and the world of The Emerson Witches as well as read a short chapter excerpt. And if you like the excerpt, you have the chance to vote on a poll asking for the second chapter to be released!

I actually just read chapter one, and I have to say it has definitely piqued my interest! I can't wait to see what happens to The Emerson Witches as well Samantha C Ross on their road to publication.

Oh, and here's a brief summary about the book:

Americus Island has always been a haven for unusual individuals with strange and unorthodox beliefs. Sixteen year old Chime Emmerson and her sisters, Angel and Evangeline, have lived on the island since the tragic and mysterious death of their parents. The girls live their daily lives similar to most teenagers, except for one very, very big difference. The Emmerson sisters were born into a bloodline of witches. Adding to their inherent knowledge of witchcraft, each possesses an extraordinary paranormal ability in the form of telepathy – the power to read others thoughts; and clairvoyance, a skill that allows communication with the spirit world.

When a dark entity unexpectedly disrupts the Emmerson household, Chime realizes it may only be the beginning of a more evil, malevolent force. It also appears she is the sole target.

She is proven right when the supernatural occurrences increase with terrifying intensity, haunting Chime with an abundance of curses and hexes. Then the nightmares begin. Night after night a demonic apparition chases Chime throughout her dreams, searching for a way to possess her.
Shaken, but determined to survive the mysterious attacks, Chime is unsure who is responsible for the unseen torment. A striking stranger, Raphael, has only just recently entered Chime’s life and declared his immediate affection for her. But Raphael has also admitted he is a Pranic Vampire, a being who draws not blood, but life-force from humans. Could it be her new love to blame, or a much more frightening enemy? Hopelessly, it looks as though Chime may lose the fight against her invisible assailant as the dark magic becomes life-threatening.

However, Americus residents are familiar with evil sorcery; the island’s hidden past is shrouded by witchcraft, and they are not prepared to lose one of their own. The seemingly ordinary citizens form a secret coven to break the spell imprisoning Chime. With the help of Chime’s best friend Nim, an apprentice warlock, and a sinister mermaid named Marrakesh; Americus Island’s most powerful and peculiar inhabitants join forces. Together the mystical assembly embark on the enormous task of banishing the malicious phantom possessing Chime. Extremely perilous, the ceremony must be performed with care. One small mistake could prove fatal and endanger Chime’s very soul, separating her from this world, and all those that love her, forever.

Interested? Well, head on over here to take a look around! You can also follow Samantha on twitter.

~~

The 2011 Book Drum Tournament:

I was also recently alerted about The 2011 Book Drum Tournament hosted by www.bookdrum.com, "a community website that aims to be the perfect companion to the books we love, bringing them to life with immersive pictures, videos, maps and music."

Here's some brief info about the Tournament:

"Welcome to the 2011 Book Drum Tournament, in which book lovers from Australia to Zambia can delve deep into a favourite book and, by building an illustrated profile, share their enthusiasm for it with the rest of the world.

The 2010 Book Drum Tournament saw seven Contributors share £2,000 of prizes, and led to eight talented writers being commissioned to write and edit new profiles on the strength of their entries. Hundreds of people took part, creating many of the excellent Profiles now freely available for everyone to enjoy.

To enter the 2011 Tournament, choose a published book and create a Profile of it, consisting of a Summary, a Review, a Glossary, an illustrated Setting page, a biography of the Author, and a comprehensive set of illustrated Bookmarks. Book Drum's interactive system makes it easy to do, and the chance to research a book in detail is richly rewarding."

To find out more head on over here.

In My Mailbox (106 & 107)

In My Mailbox was started by The Story Siren.

First off, I just wanted to say thank you to everyone who left a comment on my post last Saturday. Your comments were so heartfelt, and not only did I love reading them but I appreciate them very much as well. As for me, I'm doing better with the whole thing. It takes time to overcome deaths of loved ones, though I'm starting to find that the antidote (so to say) is to remember all the good times you had with them.

Anyhow, on to fun blog related stuff. I got a bunch of really amazing books this week in the mail like Veronica Roth's Divergent!  Please excuse while I go squeal some more. ;) Okay back. As always can't wait to see what you all got this week as well as your comments!

For Review:

The Bird House by Kelly Simmons (In the midst of reading this one and as of now I'm really enjoying it!)

Almost True by Keren David (I really enjoyed When I Was Joe so I can't wait to see what's up next for Joe and his family and friends.)

The Midnight Tunnel (Suzanna Snow, #1) by Angie Frazier (LOVED Angie debut YA last year, so I cant' wait to see what  this one will be like.)

Fallen Grace by Mary Hooper (I've been in the mood for some historical fiction so this one looks like it will hit the spot perfectly.)

The Girl Who Was on Fire: Your Favorite Authors on Suzanne Collins' Hunger Games Trilogy edited by Leah Wilson (Intrigued by this.)

The Hidden Gallery by Maryrose Wood (I haven't read the first in this series yet, though as I've read some of Maryrose's previous books I'm sure this one and its prequel will manage to be amazing.)

The Iron Witch (The Iron Witch Saga, #1) by Karen Mahoney (Read this one as soon as I got, and oh my gosh, it was so good! You all must buy it ASAP.)

Jenna & Jonah's Fauxmance by Emily Franklin and Brendan Halpin (Just finished this one as well. It was okay...)
Priscilla the Great by Sybil Nelson (Looks really cute!)
Divergent by Veronica Roth (All I can say is that this better be as AMAZING as what I've been told.)

From Netgalley:

In Arms of Stone Angels by Jordan Dane (This one sounds different than the average YA so I can't wait to see what I think about it.)

Bought for Nook:

Legacy (Ganzfield, #3)by Kate Kaynak

Guardian of the Gate (Prophecy of the Sisters, #2) by Michelle Zink

I recently began reading both of this series ^^ (Ganzfield and Prophecy of the Sisters) and I've been really impressed so far so I can't wait to dive into these ones.

Happy reading! :)

Only the Good Spy Young by Ally Carter

*Spoilers may be present in the summary for those of you who haven't read the previous additions.*

Summary/Cover Image from Publisher's Website:

When Cammie Morgan enrolled at the Gallagher Academy, she knew she was preparing for the dangerous life of a spy. What she didn't know was that the serious, real-life danger would start during her junior year of high school. But that's exactly what happened two months ago when Cammie faced off against an ancient terrorist organization dead set on kidnapping her.

Now the danger follows her everywhere, and even Cammie "The Chameleon" can't hide. When a terrifying encounter in London reveals that one of her most-trusted allies is actually a rogue double-agent, Cammie no longer knows if she can trust her classmates, her teachers...or even her own heart.

In this fourth installment of the New York Times best-selling series, the Gallagher Girls must hack, spy, steal, and lie their way to the truth as they go searching for answers, recognizing that the key to Cammie's future may lie deep in the past.

Review:

The Gallagher Girls series was one of the first ones that originally got me hooked on YA, and over the years it has been a series I've faithfully followed. So, it's no surprise that I not only read Only the Good Spy Young, the forth addition, but loved it as much as I did.

Only the Good Spy Young is yet another fast paced, addicting sequel in which Cammie and her friends not only find out even more surprising secrets but get into lots of interesting, tension filled, as well as sometimes funny, spy adventures.

In this addition, in particular, Cammie and her crew are dealing with some scary things. For one, during winter break Cammie and Bex meet up with a trusted ally, only to find out he's a rogue, undercover double agent, someone who may have been involved in Cammie's dad's demise! Further more, Cammie's also dealing with the fact that her mother's missing in action, she has a new, mysterious teacher teacher, and, yeah, the boy she kind-of loves keeps showing up in the most odd of locations. And that's only the beginning, and while Cammie, Liz, Bex, and Macey may not have it all figured out yet, they do know one thing: Junior year is going to be killer!

One of the big thing that also keeps me coming back for more of the Gallagher Girls series is the girls themselves. Bex, Cammie, Liz, and Macey are all fearless and brilliant in their own ways, and when mixed together they get in some of the most hilarious and interesting trouble ever.  In this sequel, I particularly liked how Cammie's character continued to grow, as well as how we got to see more of her and Zach's relationship.

Just like the previous prequels, Only the Good Spy Young is filled with action, action, and more action, and while the plot did stall in some places at times, I can't truly say I was disappointed in any ways with this. One of the things I liked most about this one was the way Ally has the plot developing in even more details, and let me tell you, the secrets you're about to find out in this one are shocking and oh-so-interesting.

In all, Ally Carter has yet another winner in Only the Good Spy Young. I can only hope the sequel (coming in 2012) will be as good!

Grade: A-

Only the Good Spy Young is now out!

Source: Publicist at Hyperion. Thanks, Atoosa!

Interview with Antony John, author of Five Flavors of Dumb

Antony John is the author of two YA books, Busted: Confessions of an Accidental Player and the newly released Five Flavors of Dumb. And today he's hear to answer a few of my questions.

~~

In your opinion, what are the top three reasons why teens (or even adults) should consider picking up Five Flavors of Dumb the next time they see it in stores or online?

Oh, yikes! It’s only the first question and I’m already guilty of shameless self-promotion. Okay, well, here goes:

Reason #1: I like books that put me inside the head of someone whose view of the world is necessarily different to mine. In Five Flavors of Dumb, that person is a deaf high school senior named Piper, and she’s about to discover the awesome power of rock music, forgiveness, love, and her own irrepressible spirit. Every review I’ve read [hearts] Piper. I hope you will, too.

Reason #2: Based on the cover and blurb, some people assume Five Flavors of Dumb is just humorous. Sure, it’s funny, but it’s much more than that. Piper has a lot of stuff to work through with her family and friends, and things get pretty emotional. In fact, very emotional at times! (In other words: keep the Kleenex handy.)

Reason #3: I like books that inspire me to jump out of my chair and pump my fist (even though it freaks my kids out). Five Flavors of Dumb still makes me do that, and I’ve read it, like, a gazillion times already.

If this isn’t enough, please just head over to Goodreads and see what everyone else is saying. (And no, none of the reviewers are related to me!):

http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7818683

Five Flavors of Dumb tells the story of Piper so would you mind telling us a little about her? Also, if you could offer her any type of advice, what would you say?

Piper is smart, sassy, sardonic, and (I’m sorry to say) occasionally self-absorbed. In fairness, though, she’s going through a tough time. A deaf senior at a mainstream Seattle high school, her parents have raided her college fund to pay for her baby sister’s cochlear implant. As a result she’s worried her college dreams have just gone up in smoke, and she’s also pissed that her connection to her sister (i.e. deafness) has been “corrected” (as her father sees it). When she’s offered the chance to manage her school’s rock band, Dumb, and share any money they earn, she throws caution to the wind and goes for it. But getting this band to function musically and socially may be more than she can handle!

If I could offer her advice, I’d tell her to stop worrying and realize how awesome she is. She’s so stressed out about things she can’t control that she misses out on some of the wonderful things that are right in front of her. Some of Dumb’s members help her to see that, thankfully. With the aid of rock music, of course!

Five Flavors of Dumb is told from the voice of a girl, obviously, which leaves me to wonder what made you choose to tell the story from a girl's POV rather than a guy's? Also, what was one of the hardest parts of getting Piper's "voice" down?

I get this one a lot: How does a guy in his late-30s with a Ph.D. in music who grew up in England and went to an all-boys school write from the perspective of a deaf 18-year-old girl at a co-ed American high school?

Hmmm, put like that, I have to admit . . . it’s a good question!

Honest truth: Piper came to me more fully formed than any character I’ve ever written. I just had an innate sense of who she was, how she thought and felt, and how she would communicate that through the written word. I don’t have plans to write from a girl’s point of view again anytime soon, but it felt totally right in this novel, and Piper is without doubt my favorite character (from my books, at least).

That doesn’t mean everything was easy. In fact, there were some, um . . . interesting moments in the writing process. For instance, Piper crushes on a boy. To be honest, I wasn’t completely convinced why she would like him all that much. So I asked my wife and sister-in-law: “What makes a boy attractive to a girl?” Now, as someone who has been happily married for a decade, I probably ought to have had some idea of this already, but I didn’t. And so both of them dutifully gave me a list of things that they would have found attractive in Piper’s situation. And I thought: “Huh. That makes sense. Cool.” And I included it. All of it.

Then there’s the moment where Piper makes out with someone-who-shall-remain-nameless. And I thought: “Huh. I’ve never kissed a guy. I wonder what that’s like.” So I asked. And they told me. And it’s all there in the book. It was very illuminating for me!

If Five Flavors of Dumb had a theme song what would it be?

Easy: “Smells Like Teen Spirit” by Nirvana. Read the novel and you’ll know why!

How did the title Five Flavors of Dumb come to be? Was it always the title or did it come later on in the game?

Actually, the title came before anything else. I was on my way to a coffee shop to write and the title just popped into my head. I spent that morning planning the book. I was sure it was going to be the best thing ever, but I was very wrong. Fortunately, by the time the book sold eight months later, the only thing that remained from that original version was the narrator, Piper. Oh, yeah . . . and the title!

You're also the author of the teen novel Busted: Confessions of an Accidental Player, which leaves me to wonder how the writing process from Five Flavors of Dumb differed from that one?

Great question. Actually, the writing processes were completely opposite.

Busted was written in a two-month flurry, and edited for well over a year.

When it came to writing Five Flavors of Dumb I felt dissatisfied with how I’d approached Busted, and decided to do more planning before I actually began writing. Well, a little planning became a LOT of planning, and before I ever wrote a word of Five Flavors of Dumb I’d compiled a 30000-word plan for it. Then I spent about four months writing the first draft. But after that the editing process was much easier!

Now I write all my books this way: a solid, comprehensive plan that precedes the actual writing. It doesn’t work for everyone, but it works for me.

What were you like as a teen? Were you similar in any way to Piper or the other characters?

Oh, boy. Musically, I was Ed Chen (Piper’s sidekick). Music consumed my teen years, which is why I didn’t begin writing novels until much later.

Temperamentally, I had a lot in common with Piper: I was highly opinionated, sometimes to a fault; I cared deeply about everything and everyone, but wasn’t always sure how best to communicate it; I hated being wrong, and didn’t always take criticism well. But like Piper, I was also energetic, determined, passionate, and steadfast with my friends. These remain the touchstones of who I am today, and are almost certainly the reasons that writing from Piper’s perspective came so easily.

What's next for you book wise?

My next YA, entitled The Hallelujah Book Tour, will be coming out spring 2012, also from Dial Books. It's the story of a 16-year-old boy who writes a spiritual self-help book that becomes a bestseller. When he's sent on a promotional tour along Route 66 things don't exactly go as planned, particularly when a former crush hitches a ride.

After that, around fall 2012, the first book in my Elemental trilogy will be released (again with Dial; can you tell I like my editor!). It's set in a dystopian colony of the United States where everyone is born with powers of the elements—earth, water, wind, and fire—except for one boy who is powerless . . . or is he? I'm so psyched about it I can barely see straight.

Thanks so much for having me along today, Lauren. And a very happy new year to you and your readers!

~~~

To find out more about Antony and his books, head on over to his website.

By the way, Antony frequently hosts book giveaways (his own books and also ARCs of forthcoming releases). Just head along to his website (www.antonyjohn.net) for details, or “like” him on Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Antony-John/124596187591570

Buy Antony's books:

Amazon
Barnes and Noble

Inside Out by Maria V. Snyder

Summary/Cover Image from Publisher's Website:

Keep Your Head Down.

Don't Get Noticed.

Or Else.

I'm Trella. I'm a scrub. A nobody. One of thousands who work the lower levels, keeping Inside clean for the Uppers. I've got one friend, do my job and try to avoid the Pop Cops. So what if I occasionally use the pipes to sneak around the Upper levels? The only neck at risk is my own…until I accidentally start a rebellion and become the go-to girl to lead a revolution.

Review:

I've had Inside Out in my TBR pile for nearly a year now, but a couple of days ago I finally decided to give it a chance, and I have to say, I'm so glad I did because this book is one of the most spellbinding and imaginative dystopians I've read in ages. I'll even go so far to say this is one of my favorite books ever!

Inside Out tells the story of Trella, a lowly scrub who spends her days as the Queen of the Pipes and talking to Cog, her only friend. Sure, her life isn't the best thing ever, especially with the Pop Cops always around but it's as good as it's gonna get. Though, one day everything changes when she meets Broken Man, a man who tells the other scrubs that there is a way to end the torture they face at the hands of the uppers, that there is an outside to where they live. Soon enough, her whole life is set up in sparks, as she agrees to assist the Broken Man in a plan that may not only start a revolution but change everyone's lives on board. But are the scrubs ready for the secrets and the challenges they are soon to face? And what about that upper Trella meet? Is he as nearly as nice as he appears? Only time will tell in this incredible story of a world deep, deep in the future.

Trella- there's so much to say about this one main character. For one, Trella's one of those unassuming hero types, one who does so much for people even though she thinks she's not doing nearly anything to help. Trella's strong, smart, and and convening in the best ways possible. She truly is the queen of the pipes, and I can't imagine having a better person lead such an amazing story. Adding to this, I loved how she managed to grow as a person as Inside Out progressed. In the beginning, she's quick to show and tell the reader that she doesn't get close to people, though as time progress this changes in instant, as she begins to form friendships with the Broken Man, Logan, Riley, and many more characters.

Adding to this, I loved the world of Inside Out. One of the things I loved most about it is that Maria didn't wash the reader away with a ton of information. Instead she told the parts most important to have the reader be able to imagine it in perfect detail, as well as add their own aspects to it.

I also loved the plot of this novel because there was always a twist or turn to everything that I never saw coming. This happened to the point where I never truly knew how everything was going to end. Sure, I had my ideas but usually they were proved wrong, and I liked that because I love having an author manage to surprise me time and time again.

Going with the above, Maria V. Snyder is an incredible author. Her ability to spin such an imaginative, breathtaking story in such great detail deserves serious props, and it also has me excited to read more about Trella and the scrubs in the future, as well as her other series.

In all, don't be like me and take forever to read this novel. Instead go out and pick it up ASAP. It's one of the best dystopian novels out there, no doubt about it.

Grade: A+

Inside Out is now out!

Source: Netgalley

Giveaway: Julie Kagawa's The Iron Fey Series (Books 1-3)

In celebration of The Iron Queen, the latest addition to Julie Kagawa's The Iron Fey series, one winner will receive books one to three in The Iron Fey series.

Books 1 to 3 in the Iron Fey series include:

The Iron King (Book One)

The Iron Daughter (Book Two)

The Iron Queen (Book Three)

About the Iron Fey Series:

In The Iron King, debut author Julie Kagawa introduced a new, evolved order of faery. In less than twenty-four hours Meghan Chase will be sixteen. Countless stories, songs and poems have been written about this wonderful age, when a girl finds true love and the stars shine for her and the handsome prince carries her off into the sunset. But Meghan suspects that it won’t be that way for her. After all, Meghan has a secret destiny—one she could never have imagine.

In The Iron Daughter, Kagawa explores love and betrayal in a faery world gone mad. A half faery princess, half human girl becomes a pivotal part of a deadly conflict between two warring factions of faery.

The winds of war gather in Kagawa's newest novel, The Iron Queen. Meghan Chase thought they’d left Faery behind forever, but pressing matters cause the three exiles to be summoned to war. A new alliance is made, along with a few contracts, of course, and Meghan, half Summer faery princess, half human, is pressed to choose Fey over her mortal beginnings. Will she abandon her human heart for an iron will that will help her survive? For as Meghan can confirm—in real life, unlike books, faery tales don’t necessarily have happy endings. To find out more about The Iron Fey series, visit The Iron Fey's offical facebok fan page.

Iron Fey trailer:



The countdown widget:

To enter this giveaway, please fill out the form below.

Though, as with any contest, there are rules involved:

~ Must be 13 years or older to enter.

~ Must have a US or Canada mailing address.

~ The contest will close on February 11, 2011!

*CONTEST NOW OVER!*

*Prizes provided by Harlequin Teen*

Mini-Reviews of Julie Kagawa's The Iron Fey Series (Books 1-3)

Today, I not only do I have mini-reviews of books one to three in Julie Kagawa's Iron Fey series but I also have a huge contest, which will be posted later today. So, without a further ado, let the fun begin...

The Iron King

Summary/Cover Image from Publisher's Website:

Meghan Chase has a secret destiny—one she could never have imagined…

Something has always felt slightly off in Meghan's life, ever since her father disappeared before her eyes when she was six. She has never quite fit in at school…or at home.

When a dark stranger begins watching her from afar, and her prankster best friend becomes strangely protective of her, Meghan senses that everything she's known is about to change.

But she could never have guessed the truth—that she is the daughter of a mythical faery king and is a pawn in a deadly war. Now Meghan will learn just how far she'll go to save someone she cares about, to stop a mysterious evil no faery creature dare face…and to find love with a young prince who might rather see her dead than let her touch his icy heart.

Review:

The Iron King is one of those books that while it has been in my TBR pile for ages and I've read nothing but fantastic reviews for, it's taken me nearly a year to get to it, which is sad because The Iron King is such a great start to the Iron Fey series!

Meaghan, the lead character, is one of those kind of lead female characters I love seeing in YA. She's brave, fearless, and she's not afraid to let her heart guide her way in life. I enjoyed seeing her determination in getting her beloved brother back, because it showed just how great of a person she is when it comes to saving the people she loves most. With that, I also adored the side characters of Puck and Ash. Puck, Meaghan's best friend, was such a refreshing addition to this mostly serious books. Constantly one to come up with the witty retorts, Puck will constantly have the reader laughing-out-loud. Ash, on the other hand, is dangerous, brooding, and handsome, and worst of all, he seems to have an ice of heart. And while I was somewhat always put off by the fact he tended to fit into the cliche love interest of paranormal YA, he does begin to shift out of it over time.

Anther aspect I enjoyed about this story, was the world of the faeries. I loved learning more about the Summer, Winter, and Iron fey- the conflicts between, how far they would go to up each other...it constantly caused some great tension and page-flipping fun! Though, I wasn't always found of how Julie dumped a lot of info on the reader at one time, because I was always somewhat confused of who everyone bedsides the ring-leaders of the story where. But other than that small fact, this story is nearly flawless.

Bottom Line: The Iron King is a refreshing start to a series that I'm sure will quickly become a favorite of mine over time.

Grade: B+

The Iron King is now out!

Source: Bought

The Iron Daughter

Summary/Cover Image from Publisher's Website:

Half Summer faery princess, half human, Meghan has never fit in anywhere. Deserted by the Winter prince she thought loved her, she is prisoner to the Winter faery queen. As war looms between Summer and Winter, Meghan knows that the real danger comes from the Iron fey—ironbound faeries that only she and her absent prince have seen. But no one believes her.

Worse, Meghan's own fey powers have been cut off. She's stuck in Faery with only her wits for help. Trusting anyone would be foolish. Trusting a seeming traitor could be deadly. But even as she grows a backbone of iron, Meghan can't help but hear the whispers of longing in her all-too-human heart.

Review:

Action packed, romantic, and funny, The Iron Daughter is even better than The Iron King.

In this addition, the reader sees major development in the characters of Meghan, Puck, and Ash, as well as in their relationships. Meghan is once again a very strong lead character, and I loved seeing how she never lets anyone get in the way of her getting what she wants, which leads me to Ash and her.

I love Ash. He's one of those male characters that you can't help but grow addicted to...smart, brave, somewhat funny, you just want your own Ash. And while I love Meghan and Ash and how well they mix together, I still adore Puck. Puck is in most ways the underdog in the whole situation, but that never stopped me from rooting for him. Why? Well, just because he's Puck- adorable, funny, witty, the one who always has the quick, cutting remarks, and most importantly, the kind of boy best friend any girl would be glad to have.

Furthermore, I really enjoyed the plot and world building in this. In the first addition of this series, I was always somewhat confused of who everyone was (their goals, wants, needs...) but in this I feel that everything was cleared up in the best way possible. Better yet, I loved how the reader gets to learn a lot more about the Iron fey and what it will take to stop them.
Bottom Line: The Iron Daughter is nothing short of fantastic. Julie Kagawa grows greatly as an author in this one, which leaves me to know one thing and one thing only: I can't wait to read more by her!

Grade: A

The Iron Daughter is now out!

Source: Chelsy at Big Honcho Media/HarlequinTeen

The Iron Queen 

Summary/Cover Image from Author's Website:

In less than twenty-four hours I'll be seventeen.

Although, technically, I won't actually be turning seventeen. I've been in the Nevernever too long. When you're in Faery, you don't age. So while a year has passed in the real world, agewise I'm probably only a few days older than when I went in.

In real life, I've changed so much I don't even recognize myself.

***

MY NAME IS MEGAN CHASE.

I thought it was over. That my time with the fey, the impossible choices I had to make, the sacrifices of those I loved, was behind me. But a storm is approaching, an army of Iron fey that will drag me back, kicking and screaming. Drag me away from the banished prince who's sworn to stand by my side. Drag me into the core of conflict so powerful, I'm not sure anyone can survive it.

THIS TIME, THERE WILL BE NO TURNING BACK.

Review:

If you thought The Iron Daughter was fantastic, well just wait until you read The Iron Queen because it's even better. The romance, action, and drama are all kicked up a few notches, and the characters and plot have the best development so far in the series!

In this addition, the reader once again gets thrown into the world of Meaghan, Puck, and Ash. These are three characters who I have come to adore and love over time, and in this addition it was no different. I enjoyed seeing how they all put aside their differences to fight the Iron fey, as well as the fact there's more development in the love triangle between Meaghan, Puck, and Ash. In most love triangles, I usually on a specific side from the first book, but the Iron Fey series is one where this didn't occur, instead I was constantly switching sides, curious to know just who Meghan would pick: Ash or Puck? Puck or Ash? Both are such fantastic lead characters and people, and if I was Meghan I now I would never be able to pick

Just like the first book, The Iron Queen contains action, action, and more action. This is one book that you just have to read in one sitting, because of all the twists and turns that you leave to dying to know more, more, and more.

Lastly, Julie Kagawa develops even more as a writer in this one, because not only does she do a fantastic job with the characters, but the world she has developed in this series is just spectacular!

Bottom Line:  The Iron Daughter is yet another satisfying sequel in the Iron Fey series, and with the cliff-hanger ending this one has, I know I'll be the first in the line to buy The Iron Knight the day it's released.


Grade: A+

The Iron Queen will be released February 1, 2011!

Source: Chelsy at Big Honcho Media/HarlequinTeen

~~~

Overall, do yourself a favor this winter, pick up The Iron Fey books one to three and give them a try. Witty, action paced, characters you can't help but love, swoon-worthy boys, this is one series that not only manages to have it all, but gets even better with every book. Julie Kagawa is quickly becoming one of the best YA authors out there, in my opinion.

Interview with Pam Bachorz, author of Drought!

Pam Bachroz is the author of two YA books- Candor and Drought, which just came out today! And today's she here to answer a few of my questions.

~~~

In your opinion, what are the top three reasons why teens (or even adults) should consider picking up Drought the next time they see it in stores or online?

1. It's a different story than what they've read before.
2. They'll love the characters.... or love to hate some of them.
3. It'll suck you in and make you think.

Drought tells the story of Ruby so would you mind telling us a little about her? Also, if you could offer her any type of advice, what would you say?

Ruby has been alive for two hundred years, maturing very slowly into a near-woman today. She has a very special, and secret, gift: her blood, mixed with water, can sustain life. But she longs for the day when she can leave the woods where she's been trapped for two hundred years... longs to be a "normal" girl with modern clothes and maybe even a special boy.

As for advice for Ruby, I'd tell her to listen to her heart, and her heart alone. She's surrounded by some very big, pushy personalities who think they know what's best for her. But she's reached the point when she needs to make that decision for herself.

In Drought, Ruby's blood makes the water special, which makes her valuable to not only the Congregation but the Overseers as well. This leaves me to wonder the following: why did you make her have such a special talent?

Ruby has simply always had this gift, as has her father Otto. That's where the story started: I drove by a broken-down old barn in upstate NY and had a vision of blood dropping into a glass of water, inside that barn. Then I shared my lovely vision with the people who were in the car with me. You never know what you're getting into, going on a car trip with me!



Now Out!

 In Drought, you're not one to shy away from showing just how gruesome and horrible the Congregation's lives, which is one of the main reasons I found this book to be so fascinating but at the same time disturbing. So why did you decide to show the Congregation's life in such detail with the beatings, death, and starvation?

I am horrified, on a daily basis, by the cruelty that human beings inflict on each other. I wanted my story to show the very personal impact of cruelty. It's so easy to brush it off when we read a news article or hear about pain far away. But the truth is that people are being beaten, starved, tortured every day somewhere on our planet.... and in some cases, much closer than any of us want to think. I've read devastating accounts of migrant farm workers and how they are treated in some farms in the US--how they are virtually slaves. I think their plight definitely worked their way into my story.

Over the course of Drought, Ruby begins to form a relationship with Ford, a handsome overseer who promises her he can get her out of the life she's living, which leaves me to wonder the following: what was one of the your favorite parts about writing about their relationship, as well as one of the most challenging?

Let me tell you, Ruby and Ford tied me in knots. Yet writing their scenes together was also the most rewarding--once I got it right. I loved writing about their official "date", especially (I won't say more about that, since I don't want to give much away!). Figuring out how fast Ruby would move with this guy--given that he's the enemy, really, and that she's never had a relationship before--was definitely challenging. I couldn't have her think or act like a "modern" girl.



Now Available in Paperback!



How did the title Drought come to be? Was it always the title or did it come later on in the game?

DROUGHT has been with the project since pretty early on. I love titles with multiple meanings: DROUGHT refers to the literal drought that is the setting of the book, but it also refers to the drought of love that Ruby's been experiencing, and also the drought of kindness that all the Congregants have been subjected to. Finally, it refers to the long, difficult time the whole Congregation has had, waiting for their beloved Otto to come and "save" them.

With Drought's release date fast approaching, do you have any plans on how you'll spend the day?

I have NOT dreamed something up yet! I know I need to do something. At least drink a big glass of water. :)

Your previous book Candor was told from the POV of a guy, while this time it was told from a girl's POV, so what made you decide to switch it up this time?

I like trying new things every time I write, so that was part of it. But truly, it was Ruby who stepped up and told me that she wanted her story told.

What's up next for you book wise?

I am working on another YA story about a secret, altered world. I'm quite fascinated by those!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thanks for having me here! And remember... dark secrets lurk just outside our vision. Keep your eyes peeled!

~~~

Thanks so much Pam!

To find out more about Pam and her books, be sure to head on over to her website. You can also view my reviews of Drought and Candor here and here.

Drought by Pam Bachorz

Summary/Cover Image from Publisher's Website:

Ruby dreams of escaping the Congregation. Escape from slaver Darwin West and his cruel Overseers. Escape from struggling to gather the life-prolonging Water that keeps the Congregants alive--and Darwin rich. Escape from her certain, dreary existence, living as if it's still the early 1800s, when the Congregation was first enslaved. But if Ruby leaves, the Congregation will die without the secret ingredient to the Water: her blood. So she stays, and prays to their savior Otto, who first gave Water to the Congregants... and fathered Ruby before he vanished.

When the Congregants discover Ruby's forbidden romance with an Overseer, they beat Ford to stop her from running away with him. Ruby steals their store of Water to save Ford's life and is banished. Ruby has everything she's dreamed of: a modern life with Ford. But the modern world isn't what she thought it would be, and Ruby can't forsake the Congregation. Love and loyalty push Ruby to return and fight for her family's freedom...at a terrible price.

Review:

Drought is a unique, riveting, and disturbing tale of one girl's struggle over loyalty, love, and the ties that bring them together in a dysptioan setting.

Drought tells the story of Ruby, a girl who's been enslaved along with the rest of her people by Darwin West since the 1800s. At the hands of Darwin and his Overseers, Ruby and her Congregation face cruel punishment and have to collect water from the forest every day, no matter how dry it may be. But then Ruby meets Ford. Ford is a new Overseer but he's nothing like the typical one. He's kind, sweet, and starts a friendship with Ruby, promising her an escape- a life of freedom and a regular teenage life. But is Ruby ready to leave her family and friends, especially since her blood is the reason why they survive? And what about Ford? Is he nearly as nice and caring as he appears? Only time will tell in this in Pam Bachorz's sophomore novel!

Ruby was a character who I liked from the start, because not only is she someone who manages to save her people time and time again through her blood giving, but she also acts as one of their unofficial leaders- someone, who along with her mother, keeps everyone together and as safe as they can be. I thought Pam did a fantastic job of showing Ruby's distraught and confusion over which side to choose in her situation- freedom or staying with and loyal to the people who made her. It was an intriguing one, basically the backbone of Drought. Adding to this, I loved seeing how Ruby's relationship with Ford developed over time because not only was it sweet and simple but it was interesting to see how Ruby dealt with her feelings for Ford and what came with them. Pam also did a great job of developing the side characters, such as Ruby's mother to the scary, perfect villain type Darwin West.

One of the first things that drew to read Drought was the premise, and thankfully, the execution was even better than I expected. As mentioned before, Ruby's internal struggles were not only one of the big backbones of the plot but also something that made this book move in a swift, easy pace. I liked how throughout the novel Pam lead the reader to make their own decisions about Ruby and her people's somewhat obsession with Otto. It was a scary thing and cased a lot of thought on my part about people and their "heroes" so to say.

Just like in Candor, Pam's writing was fantastic. I thought she did a great job of moving the story along at a fast pace, all while establishing a lot of character and plot development. She's one who doesn't shy away from the hard-hitting scenes, and I respect her for that because it leaves a bigger and better impact on the reader, even though some scenes involving the torture and starvation in Ruby's world may be hard for some to read.

In all, Drought is no sophomore slump for Ms. Bachorz. Instead it's a novel filled with intrigue, romance, and one girl's internal struggle- one that may throw everything in flames or make the best changes possible. I simply can't wait to read more by Pam!

Grade: A+

Drought will be released January 25, 2011!

Source: Publicist at Goodman Media. Thanks, Jenny!

Look out for an interview with Pam coming tomorrow!

Giveaway: Michelle Moran's Madame Tussaud + Earings!

Thanks to the lovely people at Crown and Michelle Moran, I have one singed, hardcover copy of Madame Tussaud, Michelle's latest novel, as well as a pair of Marie Antoinette cupcake earrings (pictured below).

Here's the summary for it:

The world knows Madame Tussaud as a wax artist extraordinaire…but who was this woman and how did she become one of the most famous sculptresses of all time? In these pages, her tumultuous story comes to life as only Michelle Moran could tell it. The year is 1788, and a revolution is about to begin…

Marie Tussaud has learned the secrets of wax sculpting by working alongside her uncle in their celebrated wax museum, the Salon de Cire. From her popular model of the American Ambassador, Thomas Jefferson, to her tableau of the royal family at dinner, Marie’s museum provides Parisians with the very latest news on fashion, gossip, even politics. Her customers hail from every walk of life, and when word arrives that the royals themselves are coming to see their likenesses, Marie never dreams that the king’s sister will request her presence at Versailles as a royal tutor in wax sculpting. Yet when a letter with a gold seal is delivered to her home, Marie knows she cannot refuse—even if it means time away from her beloved Salon and her increasingly dear friend, Henri Charles.



Aren't they ADORABLE?!

 As Marie becomes acquainted with her pupil, Princess Élisabeth, she is taken to meet both Marie Antoinette and King Louis XVI, who introduce her to the glamorous life at court. From lavish parties with more delicacies than she’s ever seen, to rooms filled with candles lit only once before being discarded, Marie steps into to a world entirely different from her home on the Boulevard du Temple, where people are selling their teeth in order to put food on the table.

Meanwhile, many resent the vast separation between rich and poor. In salons and cafés across Paris, people like Camille Desmoulins, Jean-Paul Marat, and Maximilien Robespierre are lashing out against the monarchy. Soon, there’s whispered talk of revolution…Will Marie be able to hold on to both the love of her life and her friendship with the royal family as France approaches civil war? And more importantly, will she be able to fulfill the demands of powerful revolutionaries who ask that she make the death masks of beheaded aristocrats, some of whom she knows?

Spanning five years from the budding revolution to the Reign of Terror, Madame Tussaud brings us into the world of an incredible heroine whose talent for wax modeling saved her life and preserved the faces of a vanished kingdom.

To enter this giveaway, please fill out the following form.

Oh, and here are the rules:

~ Must be 13 years or older to enter. (This is labeled an adult book, by the way.)
~ Open Internationally.
~ This giveaway will close on January 29, 2011!

*THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW OVER.*

In Memory of My Grandfather

Tragedy. It comes without notice, but it leaves a heavy and everlasting mark on you and everyone close to you.

Last evening my grandfather (or as I called him "Pa") died unexpectedly, and while I don't want to bum anyone out, I thought I would dedicate this post to him, as he was always my cheerleader when it come to blogging and reading and my schooling.

My grandfather was always there for me when I was little and over time he become one of my role models. He was brave, smart, one of the nicest guys in the world. I spent more time with him when I was little than I probably did with my parents combined, and I was always close to him. He was my supporter through thick and then; he was always so proud of me. He loved what I do with Lauren's Crammed Bookshelf; he loved how much I valued my school work; he was always there for me, always rooting me for to do my best, and even if I didn't succeed, he was there to tell I did a good job, and that he was still proud.

If you told me last week that I would be facing this, feeling so sad and angry at the world for taking him away too soon, I would have never believed it. I truly thought he would be around for ever; he would be there at my high school graduation at my college one as well, crying because he was so proud of his "little girl".

I'm going to miss him so much I can't even explain it in words, though I'm going to grow stronger because of it. I'm not going to mad at the world, instead I'm going to value the time I got to spend with him, and I'm going to tell my children someday (if I have them) how amazing their great-grandfather was and how he was taken away too soon.

But until then, do me a favor, go hug and tell the people you love how much you love them. You never know when it will be too late to do so; I certainly didn't.

Also, I'll probably not be around the blogging world for the next few days, so please excuse me for that. I will get back to you all as soon as I'm ready to.

Talk to you all soon,

Lauren

Interview with Julia Karr, author of XVI!

Julia Karr is the debut author of newly released XVI, and today she's here to answer a few of my questions about XVI, writing, and more!

~~~

In your opinion, what are the top three reasons why teens (or even adults) should consider picking up XVI the next time they see it online or in stores?

1. It's a good story.
2. The dystopian world of XVI looks a bit like where we're headed as a society & seeing the consequences of continuing down the path we're on just might encourage some people to reconsider the things that they feel are so important to them
3. It has an amazing cover! (Just kidding! Well, actually, I really like the cover, but that's not always the best judge of what's in the book.)

XVI tells the story of Nina so would you mind telling us a little about her? Also, if you could offer her any type of advice what would you say?

Nina's an average teenaged girl, busy with school, her friends, and her family. But, she's not sold on the whole sex-teen image that the media and government pushes on girls when they turn sixteen.

I'd advise Nina to question what makes her feel uncomfortable, choose her friends wisely, and, above all, to be true to herself and her convictions.

What was one of your favorite parts about writing XVI?

I loved getting the flow, where the words just poured out. I also loved writing the kissing scenes! :)

XVI takes places in the year 2150, which leaves me to wonder the following: what did you choose to set it in the future, as well as that year specifically?

Good question! And one that nobody else has asked me. I knew it needed to be far enough in the future for several changes in the government. But, not so far that things wouldn't be recognizable for the most part. So, I looked at past history to see the evolution of events (particularly surrounding major wars) and then estimated how long it might take for the world I envisioned to evolve.

I chose 2150 for a secret reason. :)

Do you have a favorite scene or line from XVI? If so, would you mind sharing it or a little about it?

There's a scene in Lincoln Park with Nina and Sal. I loved writing it. Made me feel sixteen again.

Did XVI change in any big ways from first draft to final copy?

Yes and No. The bare bones of the story was there the whole time. But, when the book was out on submission to editors, one of them suggested I add a little more tension. That "little more tension" ended up becoming a huge part of the story.

How did you spend XVI's release day?

I went to work at my day job. That evening I went out to dinner with my two critique partners. They were so much help when I was revising XVI. I couldn't imagine celebrating with anyone else!

You're part of the Class of 2K11, as well as The Elevensies, so what is like to be in company with all those amazing debut authors?

I'm honored to be included in such an awesome group of writers! I love the support and the encouragement we all share. Writers who write for kids and teens are the best - ever!

Name three things your readers would be surprised to know about you.

That I won't go to scary movies - because I'm a big wuss!
That I'm a vegetarian. Although that might not be a surprise.
That I do not read other dystopian novels while I'm writing mine. I don't want to be influenced by anyone else.

What's up next for you book wise?

I'm working on the sequel to XVI, tentatively titled The Sisterhood.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Just a big thank you for inviting me to your blog. And, that I hope your readers, who choose to read XVI, like it!

~~~

Thanks so much Julia!

To find out more about Julie head on over to her website/twitter.
You can buy XVI on Amazon/Barnes and Noble/Indie Bound.

Real Mermaids Don't Wear Toe Rings by Helene Boudreau

Summary/Cover Image from Publisher's Website:

Freak of nature takes on a whole new meaning…If she hadn’t been so clueless, she might have seen it coming. But really, who expects to get into a relaxing bathtub after a stressful day of shopping for tankinis and come out with scales and a tail?

Most. Embarrassing. Moment. Ever.

Jade soon discovers she inherited her mermaid tendencies from her mom. But if Mom was a mermaid, how did she drown?

Jade is determined to find out. So how does a plus-size, aqua-phobic mer-girl go about doing that exactly? And how will Jade ever be able to explain her secret to her best friend, Cori, and to her crush, Luke?

This summer is about to get a lot more interesting…

Review:

Real Mermaids Don't Wear Toe Rings not only is an extremely quick, adorable, and funny read, but it's also the perfect cross-over between tween and YA lit, so that truly anyone in those two groups can read it and have a high chance of enjoying it.

It all started with one of the most cringe-worthy shopping trips of Jade's lives because not only did she have to find the perfect bathing suit for her somewhat plus-sized body, but she also runs into one of the cutest boys of her grade with one of the most embarrassing purchases in her hands. Though, after a quick breather she tells herself it can't possible get any worse and to just move on. But it can and it does because that night when she goes to take a bath, she grows a mermaid tale. With that, Jade learns from her dad her mother was a mermaid and she is one as well.  Now, she's dealing with some very un-ordinary teen girl problems, and several questions, such as: How can she continue to live her life while also being a mermaid? And better yet, if her mom used to be a mermaid, how did she drown that horrible day a year ago? Only time will tell in this half light/ half serious reads about growing up while also being a mermaid.

Jade was an adorable main character, and one of the things I liked most about her was the fact that she was just a "real" teen girl, even with the whole mermaid thing. For one, while she wasn't the typical skinny girl, she was okay with having a little extra weight on herself. I also loved her moments with her crush Luke because they were adorable, sweet, and even a bit funny at times.

The premise of this was pretty great, and the execution was even better. I really enjoyed finding out more about the mermaids, as well as seeing how Jade came to terms with her situation as the novel progressed. Lastly, I loved how Helene tended to keep the reader guessing with the problem involving Jade's mother.

In all, Real Mermaids Don't Wear Toe Rings equals a tamer version of Tera Lynn Child's Forgive My Fins, and with that, it's an enjoyable read for anyone who loves mermaid books.

Grade: A-

Real Mermaids Don't Wear Toe Rings is now out!

Source: Publicist at Sourcebooks. Thanks, Kay!

Slice of Cherry by Dia Reeves

Summary/Cover Image from Publisher's Website:

Kit and Fancy Cordelle are sisters of the best kind: best friends, best confidantes, and best accomplices. The daughters of the infamous Bonesaw Killer, Kit and Fancy are used to feeling like outsiders, and that’s just the way they like it. But in Portero, where the weird and wild run rampant, the Cordelle sisters are hardly the oddest or most dangerous creatures around.

It’s no surprise when Kit and Fancy start to give in to their deepest desire—the desire to kill. What starts as a fascination with slicing open and stitching up quickly spirals into a gratifying murder spree. Of course, the sisters aren’t killing just anyone, only the people who truly deserve it. But the girls have learned from the mistakes of their father, and know that a shred of evidence could get them caught. So when Fancy stumbles upon a mysterious and invisible doorway to another world, she opens a door to endless possibilities….

Review:

Ever since I first heard about this book I've been dying to read it for many reasons. One is the fact that I've heard Dia Reeves' books are brilliant, and another is the fact that the premise of this sounded unique and and really interesting. I mean, daughters of the infamous Bonesaw Killer who also have a thing for killing? Now that is something you don't see a lot of. Sadly enough, Slice of Cherry wasn't nearly as great as I thought it would be. Don't get me wrong, I liked it a lot but I also felt underwhelmed and a bit bored at times- two things I near once thought I would feel with this.

In Kit and Fancy Cordelle's opinion, it's hard being the daughters of Portero's Bonesaw Killer. For one, people judge you just because of your parent, and two, you have a strange attraction towards torturing and killing people, especially when they break into your house. Though, while Kit and Fancy may have to face those type of problems, at least they have each other, as well as their mother. But when Kit and Fancy get a little too into murder and torture, will they be able to stop each other before they ruin not only their bond but everything they've worked for?

Lets begin with Kit and Fancy. They were without a doubt one of the most interesting parts about Slice of Cherry because not only is their strong and well-crafted bond something that I found to be fascinating but I also loved seeing just how far they would go for one another before reaching a complete breaking point. Their need to kill was also intriguing and very disturbing. Adding to this, I enjoyed the add-on of Ilan and Gabriel, the two love interests and the sons of one of their father's victims, because both were just like Kit and Fancy, crazy yet strangely alluring to read about.

Moving on, as I've said before the premise of this book is awesome and I expected awesome from it, but as it turns out, it wasn't nearly as awesome as I expected. For one, I felt that this book was way to long in some parts and that if edited down a bit, it would have been perfection, but instead I just felt bored. And all the action scenes weren't nearly as action-packed as I thought they could have been, leaving me to feel underwhelmed. Though, I do give props to Dia for creating a really great and descriptive world in this with Portero, as well as well-developed characters.

In all, while Slice of Cherry isn't my favorite book ever, I still found it to be rewarding in several areas such as characters and world-building. So, if you love books with a great premise and characters and are willing to deal with several boring parts, then you'll love this book, especially if you enjoyed Dia Reeves other book. I also would like to add that I'm in the minority with only liking this; in most of the other reviews I've read for this the reviewers have LOVED it.
And the biggest question: Will I be reading more by Dia? I'm definitely willing to give her books another chance.

Grade: B-

Slice of Cherry is now out!

Source: Simon and Schuster's Galley Grab program

Wishful Thinking by Alexandra Bullen

Summary/Cover Image from Goodreads:

If you could wish for a different life, would you? What if that life changed everything you thought was real?

Adopted as a baby, Hazel Snow has always been alone. She's never belonged anywhere--and has always yearned to know the truth about where she comes from. So when she receives three stunning, enchanted dresses--each with the power to grant one wish--Hazel wishes to know her mother. Transported to a time and place she couldn't have imagined, Hazel finds herself living an alternate life--a life with the mother she never knew.

Over the course of one amazing, miraculous summer, Hazel finds her home, falls in love, and forms an unexpected friendship. But will her search to uncover her past forever alter her future?

In the heart-pounding, luminous sequel to WISH, Alexandra Bullen asks the question: If you could wish for a new life....would you?

Review:

Last year's Wish was bittersweet and hopeful, albeit with a few flaws, and with Alexandra Bullen's sophomore attempt Wishful Thinking she's back and better than ever before, because quite simply Wishful Thinking rocked my socks. It was heartbreaking as well as heartwarming, the characters were ones that had layers to them that made them out to be relelatable and easy to love, and best of all, Alexandra Bullen's writing improved greatly, making this one novel I couldn't put down, not even for a second!

Wishful Thinking tells the story of Hazel Snow, a girl who has never had the easy, carefree life she desired. For one, she was put up for addition when she was just a tiny tot, and while she was adopted by a lovely woman, the woman died in a sudden, horrific accident, leaving Hazel with barley no one to call family. But on her eighteenth birthday she received the best gift ever: her birth certificate. Now with the name of her birth mother (as well as three brand new dresses that contain more then meets the average eye) she's on the journey to find the mother she lost and the life she belongs in, starting with some time travel. But will Hazel find her mother? Will she find the love and hope she yearns for the most? And better yet, when she's given the option to change her whole life, will she? Only time can tell in this fabulous, heart racing tale of one girl's journey to find love and hope in a world where there seems to be little.

Hazel Snow was a fabulous main character if I do say so myself. Her past was a sad one but she never let that truly get her down, instead she put on a brave face and fought for what she wanted most: love, hope, and happiness. And I respected her for that. Furthermore, her story got even better once she landed in Martha's Vineyard because not only did she make some pretty great friendships (including with a certain swoon-worthy boy) but she developed greatly as a character and a person. One of my favorite parts about her was her relationship with Luke, the certain swoon-worthy boy mentioned above, because not only did it develop at a reasonable pace but it was nothing short of sweet. I also loved the characters of Jamie and Rosanna because both were not only complicated and fun characters but they also added to the big mysteries the book was made of.

And talking about that, I loved the premise of Wishful Thinking, and the execution? Well, it was even better! Alexandra Bullen did a great job of developing the different plot lines associated with Hazel's birth parents, and I especially loved how she set the book in such a beautiful and stunning place, because not only did she do a great job of describing Martha's Vineyard, but it gave the book an even better feel so to say.

Lastly, as I mentioned above, Alexandra Bullen grew greatly as a writer with Wishful Thinking. In her debut novel, I felt she sometimes had a hard time with pace and fleshing the story out in a way that she showed more than told, but with Wishful Thinking all my doubts about her as a writer were gone. So, to sum this up, Wishful Thinking has definitely made me a fan of Bullen in the best kind of way.

In all, Wishful Thinking is bittersweet and honest story that I can't help but suggest fans of Meg Cabot, Sarah Dessen, and Mara Purnhagen pick up! Alexandra Bullen truly has a star within this one; one that makes me eager to read more by her ASAP.

Grade: A+

Wishful Thinking is now out!

Source: Publicist at Scholastic. Thanks Shelia!