Plain Kate by Erin Bow - Slow but Ends Well

Plain Kate by Erin Bow

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


If it wasn't for the last two chapters of this book, I probably would have given it an okay. Leading up to the end, the book traveled a little slow for my taste. However, the book is being marketed as a middle grade and it may be just the right speed for a young person. I found some of the issues with blood a little unecessary but to each his own. I commend Ms. Bow for finishing the book with steadfast determination over the long haul. I totally can appreciate her effort. I have read many a review that really liked this book a lot. I'm just one reader of hundreds of thousands. If it peaks your interest try it.



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A blue So Dark by Holly Schindler - Dark but a new window to see through

A Blue So Dark by Holly Schindler

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


At times this book was hard to read. Not because the story was bad, no, because the story was very good. The writing draws a very clear picture. I wanted to jump into the pages and give Aura a hand. I was really angry with the adults in her life that should lover her, but left her to deal with the situation all alone and robbed of her adolescence. I didn’t fully conceptualize the painting and drawing descriptions but being slightly creative with words myself, I really enjoyed the poetry and how it laid foundation for the feelings at the time.



I discovered this book via a review by a book blogger I follow. She wrote ”This is one of the most impressively written debut novels I've read this year. (And that's saying a lot because I've read a lot of them!) But it wasn't just the writing that was so striking... the characterization, the story... everything! It was... WOW.” I do agree. If you like reality read that walk awhile is someone else’s shoes here’s your book.





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The Scorch Trials - The Thrill Continues

The Scorch Trials by James Dashner

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


This is another one of those series where the sophomore book continues the Wow. I would chrish the chance to sit and actually have a conversation with Mr. Dashner. I'm ositive it would be very interesting. How he gets the ideas for this story, I can not even begin to imagine. He describes the horrible perfectly and leads you to anguish like a detailed map. I sympathize for every character in this book, not only for what they do to each other (or are made to do) but to what is being done to them by Wicked. But just remember WICKED IS GOOD. I have not read his other series but once this one is finished I will definitely go back and investigate that one.



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I am Number Four - Read it before the movie.

I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I enjoyed reading this book and I would like to say thank you Mr. Hughes for writing it. I don't care if it was your idea or not. You laid the ground work and I thank you for that. I am really excited to see the movie too. Aside from all the drama going on with Mr. Frey, I hope that this series continues and that you, Mr. Hughes are allowed to do it. Some will boycott the book because of the drama, but I hope people at least go and get it from the library and give it a read. It is worth it.



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Nightshade - Magic + Wolves + Shay = WOW

Nightshade by Andrea Cremer

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


The first thing I loved about this book was the cover. It is gorgeous. I put it on my wish list right away. Then I started reading review on book blogs about people who had the ARCs, so I pre-ordered. When I got it in the mail I had already started other books. Then I got an invite to a chat with the author. I must say she sounds like a truly gifted person both intellectually and creatively as demonstrated in this book. Her marketing people are equally gifted by posting the prequel story of Shay and the YouTube videos. These were genius. I really enjoyed reading this book especially the last 100 pages and the ending GAH!! I went right out the next night and read chapter 1 of Wolfsbane. Ms. Cremer I bow to your take on the (for lack of a better word) "werewolf" legends. I like seeing them with control of the ability and lack there of in their lives showing the more human faults in choices and believing those how may wish to deceive. Bravo.



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The perks of being a Wallflower - didn't really seem like perks

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


The book was an easy read, but I still found it really weird. I was really just expecting what it is like for a boy to start high school and all the growing up that went with it. This particular boy had issues and even when you get to the end I wonder how much of that issue flavored how he acted. He was like a smart kid with delayed common sense and social skills. It made me wonder what his elementary years were like. I was hoping this would be a book I could recommend to my son to help him cope with issues he might encounter but I'm really not sure now. It is not a bad book that I would be alarmed if he chose to read it on his own but it doesn't have in it the way I would see him relate to things socially. All in all it was okay.



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Blood Oath the President's Vampire - Surprise secret service

Blood Oath by Christopher Farnsworth

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I really enjoyed this book more than I thought I would. It was slightly like a Dan Brown historically detailed suspense with the paranormal mixed in heavily. Of course that fact that it was a vampire always draws me in but this was a newer twist than I've read before. I hope this author rights more about Cade. The chapters were short and to the point and kept the story moving forward rapidly. I would like to see more political trappings in future books if there are any. I this Mr. Fransworth left enough open that he could build on for sequels to come.



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Beautiful Darkness- Sophomore suspense

Beautiful Darkness by Kami Garcia

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Three, Two, One WOW. This books was as good as the first. My fault is that I try really hard to figure out what is being set up as a suprise plot twist in the story. With this book I totally missed alot until the autors would have me know it and I just wasn't thinking as detailed as the world they created it. One thing I don't understand is how so many fans of this book can become so enamoured with John B when there is really so little to be known about him. This is the best plot tease to leave a reader wanting more in the next book. I have true feelings of angst for these characters and the unknowing of almost every part of this book. I reviewed BC in audio and moved right on to BD in print. I have started BD in audio and love that they kept the narrator. These books are true sothern gothic drama and a very enjoyable read.



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The Journey-The Gardian's of Gahool - 2nd slow but leading up to something

The Journey by Kathryn Lasky

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


I found this book to pace a lot slower that the first book in the series but it does seem to be building to something bigger beyond this book. I read that the first three books are what has been made into the movie. Having read the first two I am going to go see the movie before it leave and then do the third later. This books are a good safe easy read for younger readers and I have read from others that Ms. Lasky's new wolf series is really good too.



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Vordak the Incomprehensible- Comedic Villian Relief for young peeps

How to Grow Up and Rule the World, by Vordak the Incomprehensible by Scott Seegert

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I read this book along with my 12yo son, for his book report. I found the book cute and typically young boy oriented. My son who doesn't necessarily like to read like this book and said it was really funny. He also really like the comedy in the artwork. This books would make a great gift for young boys.



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Crescendo by Becca Fitzpatrick Stepping up the volume

Crescendo by Becca Fitzpatrick

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


If I would have had the time I could have sat and devoured this book in one sitting. Becca has a skill of tempting her reader as the story goes. Giving just enough to make you jump to conclusions but not enough to be convinced you are right. It's like riding the archangel rollercoaster, steady suspense and quick drop action and then back to steady suspense and so it goes. I always hope sophomore books are as good as their predecessors but in this case I think it was better. I believe because we already know the characters and can accept their actions more freely. I really loved Vee in this book but am really curious to know how she will justify what happened in this book in the next book. And just how long do I have to wait? Now I know that getting the ARC sprinting through it just make for a longer wait, but still this book is a fantastic read.



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The Capture by Kathryn Lasky- Thrilling beginning to a bigger adventure.

The Capture by Kathryn Lasky

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


I honestly just got the books to read them before seeing the movie. After reading this first volume I really hope the film makers do it justice. I really liked this book and will encourage my son to read it. The main characters had very distinct voices and suported the plot well. There were a few times I felt I never really got to know a minor character or that things just moved to fast with that character to understand the intent or motive from them but overall all it was a good story that kept moving forward. There are also just enough hanging threads of questions to tempt the reader on to the next volume.



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Clockwork Angel by Cassandra- Typical source of Awesome

Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


I LOVE this author and ALL her books and this one is no exception. Ms Clare has a gift for writing battles, suspense, snarky come backs, cocky attitude and just when you think you have it figured out you don't. If you like victorian mixed with fantasy this book is for you. Go read it and then whine about waiting for Clockwork Prince to come out like the rest of us.



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Half Magic by Edward Eager - Is all good to read with kids

Half Magic by Edward Eager

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


This book was a very enjoyable middle age read. I read this book at the same time as my son read it for a book report. The idea and well thought out plotting of granting half wishes made for a perfect read. I also really liked that hidden moral of actions have consequences and becareful what you wish for. This is a perfect read for parents to enjoy with younger children too. One of my favorite author's recommended this book to me and I'm so glad I bought it and was able to share and enjoy it with my son.



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Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins Will Blow Your Mind Up

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins




This book was more than I expected, the key word being expected. Three times in this book I was blindsided. I turned the page to the next chapter expecting something to happen and then got an eyeful of something else, stunning my conscious recognition. This is just one thing I loved about this book. I also love that this book is no fairytale. It is gut wrenchingly raw and cruel and can solicit emotions of repulsion and disgust right alongside desires of hope and happiness. There is no sugar coating to this series. It was a realistic read. Collins writes believability into a complex snare that draws you in and makes it so hard to put the books down. These books will definitely reside on my favorites shelf. For me this book was worth the wait not that I wouldn't have like to have had it sooner. Now I’m off to savor this book again and glean even more while listening to the audio.



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Charlie St. Cloud by Ben Sherwood A nice story about choosing life.

Charlie St. Cloud by Ben Sherwood

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


If I could only read faster so I could get through books before I run across spoilers. I saw one that likened this book to the sixth sense. So I more or less figured it out before I finished it. I'm kinda sad that Tess couldn't remember what she shared with Charlie but I get that it helped Charlie to allow himself to live and do over his time with Tess and live through it. I hope to see the movie and see if it does the book justice.



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The Maze Runner by James Dashner- An enjoyable puzzel for the mind.

The Maze Runner by James Dashner

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


I purchased this book last November because blogs spoke highly of it. It sat in my books I want to read NOW pile (as subset of my "to be read") for about 3 months getting preempted by other books. Recently there has been a lot of praise for this book on twitter so I picked it up. It starts a little slow but very mysterious. This book was suspenseful, intriguing and thrilling. Mr. Dashner writes with a technique of purposeful confusion. The concept is not confusing but you get the confusion of the characters within the book. I really would have liked to see a map of the glade and maybe a drawing of how he pictures the grievers, to see if my imagination was even close. I did notice that some people on goodreads did not review this book with as high praise. Some said the personalities were not very developed. I think this was intentional as it is how Thomas perceives them and granted this all takes place in a matter of about a week or two. Can anyone get a true read on any one person in a group of people in that short of time. It probably in how much you read into the story. I will definitely be in line for the next installment. I will be encouraging my 12yo son to try this one. I think he will like it.

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Struts & Frets by Jon Skovron - good read for boys

Struts & Frets by Jon Skovron

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


I thought this books was okay and would probably be better received if I was say, a thirteen or fourteen year old boy who was a little bit geeky and liked alot of things about music. Being a mom of two boys I was glas I read it as it reminded me of things to come as my boys get older. This book was an easy read and easy to follow but there was one thing that J5's dad did that I just really can't see happening. If you wonder what that it is, pick it up from your library and find out.

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For the "Merry Sisters of Fate" a prompt response

A contest subission in response to a princess/pea promt:

High atop a mattress stack sat the Princess drawn by Sir Dulac.
Her journey had left her wet and chilled needing a slumber, deeply dream filled.
Regarding her lineage she did spout devoid of knowledge of the plot about.
For princesses are fair or so it is said, but all this girl desired was a nice warm bed.
A mother’s concern brought forth a test to bring define delicacy through denied rest.
Beneath her were layers of feathers and straw but née a sleep full breath to draw.
Too bad a date would not suffice because the girl was up all through the night
Tossing and turning, never to sleep for the sake of the pea buried below so deep.
In the end all was true and the prince free to pitch his woo.
The two were married for all to see and royal life and love were meant to be;
all for the test of a little tiny pea.

Dead in the Family - the next one in the series

Dead in the Family by Charlaine Harris

My rating: 3 of 5 stars


As far as Sookie books go this one was not quite up to the level of the others. It really felt like a stepping stone. To a future plot and maybe a little back history fill in. Being a fan of True Blood made it a bit confusing because of some of the tangent story details that the series has created conflicts with some of the details in this book (ie Godrick was not Eric's maker). I did really like the interaction between Andy, Portia, Bill, Caroline and Sookie. Everytime something dramatic and action packed was to happened or was happening Sookie was either leaving to avoid, getting there after the fact or coming in at the end and missing the build up. All the action just seemed laid out on the plate but they was not anticipating and being teased buy the auroma wafting around while it cooked. As these stories go, it was easy to grasp and a fast read. I really hope it builds up to a more exciting next book.

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Linger by Maggie Stiefvater - Blindsided you wont see it coming

Linger by Maggie Stiefvater

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


Life should now when I get a book this good that it should step aside and let me just read to my hearts content. I thought I knew what was happening. I thought I had it figured out and was just along for the ride, but bam in the end I was blindsided and left lying stund in the street. Now I have to wait how long for Forever? Why do I put myself through this. I did just get Shiver on audio and as soon as I have Linger I will listen to them back to back and enjoy it all over again. Thank you so much Maggie for writing these books.

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Vampire Knights vol 10 - Eh?

Vampire Knight, Volume 10 by Matsuri Hino (樋野 まつり)

My rating: 2 of 5 stars


I have always really enjoyed these books but this one seemed very confusing. It didn't seem like the story went anywhere or told you anything new in this volume. Not sure when volume 11 comes out but I will hope that it has more enlightement in it.

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Shade - A Haunting addiction

Shade by Jeri Smith-Ready

My rating: 5 of 5 stars


The are books that are a good or great read, and there are books that touch you, pulling you into the belief of the story. This book is the latter. I may not have chosen this book to read if not for one of my Goodreads friend's recommendation. Now, I'm so glad I did. This book is one of those books that calls to you to pick it up and keep on reading. It waits patiently in your mind to pick up where you left off. This concept was like nothing else I have read. Easy to grasp and moves steadily forward. I do wish there were pictures of the irish sites described but that would just be a little extra but not necessary to get the story. I truly hope and want the next installment and will be searching for info as soon as I finish this review post.

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Darklight - True love like Shakespear

Darklight by Lesley Livingston


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Ms Livingston's books just keep getting better. The temptations and consequence of thus are formidable in this tale. To love and be loved or not, what prices to pay. The angst of everything, knowing, loving and leaving is everywhere and leaves you wanting a happy ending but is it just a trick of the Fae? Wish I could find a gate to jump through time and get the next book and come back here and read it.

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Wondrous Stange - Dangeous Fey that sting

Wondrous Strange by Lesley Livingston


My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I heard about this book from a website I follow and thought it would be a good read. I really love how Lesley's Fey are sinister and dangerous. I prefer my Fey this way. It make for a more dramatic and tense encounters in a story. These traits tend to convey unpredictability and fear. Kelley, the main character, was a tiny bit lacking for me. I don't get why the revelations made to her did not cause her more internal conflict. I got that Sonny's surprises were more of a shock to him. I really love Sonny. I immediately started the next book in the series and hope to see Kelley take charge and expand her range and level of intense emotions.

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The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time by Mark Haddon


My rating: 3 of 5 stars
This would not typically have been a book I would have considered based on the cover or title, but I was looking for books my son might possibly read. After reading this I don't think it would be action packed enough for him. However, I really enjoyed this book. I think Mr. Haddon did an excellent job of protraying the complexity of one autistic mind. I think this book would be an excellent read for grade school teachers just to get a pinch of a taste of how special these people are. I am very glad I picked this book up and appreciate the inadequacies I have of not always seeing all the detail in the picture and never acheiving a stimulus overload.

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The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner - Great and wanting more.

The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner: An Eclipse Novella by Stephenie Meyer


My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This was a real treat. I really really enjoyed this book. Yes, I love how Stephenie writes. The flow is natural like watching a good movie. I LOVE the extra insite of the Volturi's involvement that we never got from Bella's perspective in Eclipse. Bree is such a tragic character, from a sad human existence to a short sad vampire existence. Yes, everyone knows Bree is destroyed and you enter this book know this thinking its just a story, but in the end I felt so heartbroken for her and I did not expect that. This was not like reading a newpaper article about something bad that happened, it was the Eulogy at the funeral presented by a dear friend. For me I have more questions since reading this and hopefully Twilight Source (Podcast)can get some answers from Stephenie when they interview her, 'crosses fingers'. Now If we could just get Midnight Sun. (I've only read chap 1/2 and feel so guilty for that. Holding out for the final version she wants us to have).

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Spirit Bound by Richelle Mead - Does not Disappoint

Spirit Bound by Richelle Mead


My rating: 5 of 5 stars
When I bought the first two books in the this series in 2008 I read them back to back in a week, which is pretty good for a working wife and mother of two boys. I truly loved this series from the beginning. Consistently each book has drawn me in treated me to adventure, conflict, and heightened emotion only to leave some part unanswered and me wanting more. This book maintains these same standards and brings in some political meandering and drama. I truly love Rose and all that comes with her. I love being in her head (and Lissa's) throughout the story. The covers of the books help too. Of all the YA characters I read, I would love to be Rose. I can appreciate the "brass ones" she has.

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Hate List by jennifer Brown - Definitely NOT a book I hate.

Hate List by Jennifer Brown


My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This book was so much more than I expected and very subtle about it. Yes the topic of the story is distressing and stressfull but in a real open up you mind to all viewpoints kinda way. I really enjoyed the difference in the structure of telling the story as it changed in the 4 parts of the book. There was a definite unpredictablity for me. I kept expecting something that never came. The ending was a supreme justification of everyone, except the principal. I really loved how this book took stereotypes and made them people and those people in the middle expanded with depth and complexity. This books really outlines that people are not always what they are preceived at and not just one way but many fragmented parts that make up a whole person. I would hope that many people read this book and not just book nerds, this story is a very inspiring and enlightening telling and should be shared and touted.

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The Demon's Covenant - A good demonic taste in your mouth

The Demon's Covenant by Sarah Rees Brennan


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
From the moment I started this book I did not want to put it down. I just needed to know what happened next. Unfortuantely life does get in the way. This book moved faster than the last because the foundation is already set. Every time I thought I had it figured out I didn't. Sarah definately has a knack for the hidden plot. I no longer see Alan as Dean from Supernatural but Nick is a more intense version of Sam still in my head, dark hair, pale and cute, if you know what I mean. I really need to find away to get an ARC of the next book because the demon leaves you wanting more.

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Burned by P.C. & Kristin Cast - Getting Back to Better

Burned by P.C. Cast


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Book 7 in this series was a surprise to me. I'm not sure if it is because of a lesser presence of Zoey and her constant implied self doubt or that stronger more prevelant voices of the other characters. I really got a sense of maturing and growth in this book that I didn't get out of the others. Don't get me wrong I enjoyed the other books. This books has more of what I enjoyed in the first four books. There was much more intensity to this chaper of the saga. It's a shame there is such distance in the time between book releases.

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Spells by Aprilynne Pike - Entracing drama

Spells by Aprilynne Pike


My rating: 5 of 5 stars
This sophomore telling is a step up from the first. I believe I found Wings to be enticing and enjoyable. Spells is edgier and emotionally intense. I now know much more about Tamani and can appreciate his plight. Ms Pikes ability to paint the scenes of Avalon are effortless to read and are like watching it on a screen. Her outlining the cultural differences involves the reader in judging and then relating as they read farther into the discussions of the characters. The next book can not come out soon enough for me.

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Down A Dark Hall - A Thrill for every reader.

Down a Dark Hall by Lois Duncan


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I am so glad that Pam Bachorz recommended this book in an interview. I honestly did not want to put this book down. This story is a creepy thrilling short joyride. Just enough paranormal, just enough suspense and just enough detail to move you swiftly forward to the end. I was surprised this book was not made into a movie, even for television, like some of her other works. I will definitely be checking out some of her other books. I loved the thrill of this book, reading it and sitting on the edge of my seat. Go get it and read it.

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The Returners - Read it for a new concept

The Returners by Gemma Malley


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
It is truly amazing how creative the human mind can be. This idea of this book is like nothing I have ever read or seen before. Often times I can see pieces of ideas from other stories, movies or TV shows in a book I've read,but not his one. I'm in awe of this story and how well it is executed. You're drawn into the roller coaster ride of brief enlightenment to frustration, then anger to determination. While growing up my parents would sometimes say no one ever said life was easy. This book portrays that along with a great defining moment for Hope. It's hard enough for a person to create a self worth and an individual identity in a world of fitting in, prejudices, and aversion to great change, but that doesn't mean it's not worth trying. Looking back, there is an underlying sense of inspiration to just do the right thing and fight for what is right.

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The Poison Eaters - Satisfies the darkness in you Heart!

The Poison Eaters: and Other Stories by Holly Black


My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I REALLY enjoyed these tales. These are written in the true style of gothic fairy tales, what alot of the tales we know and love used to be in the begining. Mortal turning the tables on those bleesed with etherial gifts to bittersweet sacrifices that don't turn out exactly as intended. Then there are those where the magic does get revenge to the appropriate degree. Twelve stories all different but goth. If you have a need for a touch of darkness these are for you. Oh, yeah and Holly signed my copy to me.:)

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BEAUTIFUL DARKNESS ARC Giveaway !!

TWILIGHT MOMS THE BEST GIVEAWAY!!
http://www.twilightmoms.net/viewtopic.php?f=627&t=34263

I preordered Beautiful Creatures hardback and audio and started it the day I got it. Love this book! Would love to see what happens next (early). This giveaway is more than words or maybe worth every word of Beautiful Darkness.

White Cat - A Crime not to read

White Cat by Holly Black


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
The anticipation I had for this books was fully founded when I reached the last page. The whole concept of mixing magic with the world of crime bosses and controling families was refreshing. I really enjoyed the voice of Cassel ever explaining the technicalities of the con. There are just enought twists to keep the pages turning. Can't wait for Red Glove. I brashly and gloatingly admit that I had the opportunity to meet Ms. Black at a book signing the day I finished and I am in awe of her genius.

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Rules of Attaction - Another twist to the story

Rules of Attraction by Simone Elkeles


My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I glanced a review before I read this book where someone said this book was good but the first book, Perfect Chemistry, was better. I don't agree. Yes this is the sophomore book of this series and the stereotypical fear is that the second is never as good as the first because the concept is not new anymore. Yes this book has gang involvement and yes this book pairs two people who would not normally associate, together, but it also takes a situation one step farther. I goes on to show how consequences of one persons decision go on to affect others as time goes on. I must say Ms. Elkeles books have just moved way up in my towering to read stack.

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Fallen by Lauren Kate - A teasing read

Fallen by Lauren Kate


My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I had read many raving reviews of this book. I admitt I was a tiny bit disappointed. Maybe all the hype I read, caused me to set the book on a pedestal in my mind. Don't get me wrong the story is good but I was starting to get board with the tease and didn't get anything of substance until the later half of the book and still that was very limited. This book to me was a big teaser for the next one. I will read Torment but maybe get it from the library instead of purchasing.

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Inside Out - Sci Fi like it should be!

Inside Out by Maria V. Snyder


My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Yet again this book reaffirms why I love reading Maria's work. Her literary style is very easy to consume. Her plot brings on cravings that must be answered. She cooks up characters so well that you can smell who they are. If I would have had the time I could have easily devoured this book in one sitting. She is most definitely on of my top shelf authors. Pick up this sci-fi suspense today.

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Before I Fall - WOW a quote from the book sums it up.

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver


My rating: 5 of 5 stars
At first I didn't think I would like this book. Sam is awful, just a sheep in a selfish heard bleeting out mean garbage. My OCD, however, would never let me not finish a book. This book was quite the ride. WOW a quote from the book. Three letters that explain it. This was a great read. More people should read this and open their eyes and take a good look inside themselves. Its amazing how fears, insecurities and misinterpretations can make people act. Read this book and then learn from it.

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Because I am Furniture- Fast okay read

Because I am Furniture by Thalia Chaltas


My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I took an online survey that indicated this would be a book for me. I do like to read stories in verse. This one was similar and of the more common dark subject variety. Im not sure I really got to know why Anke did things she did other than the ending. I found it quite confusing that she could walk around going to parties and joining teams when she knew her dad would frown at that. Not until toward the climax did I get a real sense of I'm doing this because he is wrong. It was a fast okay read and I might try another from this author.

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The Dead-Tossed Waves - As engaging as the first

The Dead-Tossed Waves by Carrie Ryan


My rating: 5 of 5 stars
The Forest olf Hands and Teeth was my first ever zombie type book. I have seen several movies but by far my book experiences are so much better. The companion books stays right up there and does not disappoint. The characters are equally engaging and the twist and turns of this book are a surprise around every corner. The desparaness of the situation is evident from the start and never lets up. Its a take what you can get situation. If I would have been allowed to I know I could have devoured this book in one sitting. Thanks Ms ryan to your exquisite imagination.

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Knightley Academy - must read family read

Knightley Academy by Violet Haberdasher


My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I loved this book so much that I bought a second copy and gave it to my son's principal (she likes similar middle grade books) for her to read and then donate to the school library. I felt this book had a lot of good moral undertone to a very well written plot. I am also excited to read more in this series. I really like the fact that Robyne did not use her real name so these younger readers would not search on her name and find her other books that would not be suited for middle grade readers. It says alot about this author. Henry is a relateable character and is face with teasing and bullying that many young kinds (unfortunately) can relate to. I feel his approach to dealing with it shows how he matures using the guides of the code to maintain his self worth and make him a better knight. Frankie, Adam and Rohan made the perfect companions and the author draws them with a fine tip detail. The several antagonist in this book are equally intriguing and well written. Read it and see what I mean.

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The Nixie's Song- Beyond Spiderwick - but still in the same rhelm

The Nixie's Song by Holly Black


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I read this book with my seven year old. I hope I did as well as the narator of the audio books we had with the previous spiderwick series. I'm sad that this series is shorter because I do love sharing these books with my boys. I love the way she tied characters from the other series into this one but did not make them an overbering addition. Her characters personalities are easily distinct and makes it easy to imagine the scenes in my head. The writing is clever and believable to both adult and child ears. Holly Black has a gift and I'm glad she flexes her writing muscle often. Now on to the next one.

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When You Reach Me - mindful thrill

When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This book was a mental joy. I loved the tie in of The Wrinkle in Time. This book was an ongoing mystery all the way to the end. I would liken it to the Time Travelers Wife but in a YA version. It amazes me how people can think of such amzaing conundrums as time travel and weave it into a justifiable plot line. All the characters in this book are relateable and helps the story to flow easily. I can see how this book has gotten the Newberry Award. I would recommend this book to anyone who wants a realistic type story with a mind twisting bit of fantasy.

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Hex Hall - Hidden secrets and agendas

Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Sophie thought she had issues before meeting those like herself. Thats where this story begins. When what you think you know is so much more. This story weaves typical teenage anxieties with hidden magical agendas and secrets. This story was engaging with a sprinkle of snarky dialogue. I wish I was able to delve a little deeper into some of the characters and get a bit more of some of their backgrounds, but maybe in the next book. Too bad its not coming out for another year. If you don't mind the wait this book is a good pageturners, enjoy.

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Beastly - Fairy tale retold

Beastly by Alex Flinn


My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I had this in my too read pile for awhile. I only moved it up in the stack because I heard it was going to be made into a movie. I love the orginal fairy tale and this telling is essentially true to the tale, but to me, it lacked some of the edge. I think bringing it up to the current century adds to many conveniences that makes the beasts hardship seem a little less traumatic. Kyle definitely was egotistical and self absorbed but not necessarily as cruel at the orginal character was. For a young person I think it is a good and relatable read. For myself I really appreciate some of the nuances of the classic fable.

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My Review of Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince Bludgers Black Messenger Bag

Originally submitted at WB Shop

Show your support for the Gryffindor Quidditch team with this Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince Bludgers black messenger bag.

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince Bludgers Black Messenger Bag

Boys love it.

By Time Stand Still from Kansas on 3/23/2010

 

5out of 5

Pros: Good Strap Length, Lightweight , Attractive, High Quality, Comfortable , Durable 

Cons: Not enough compartments

Best Uses: School, Light loads 

Describe Yourself: Comfort-Oriented

My seven year old was so happy to get this. He carried it around over the weekend.

(legalese)

Twilight Graphic Novel - the visual abreviated version

Twilight: The Graphic Novel, Volume 1 by Stephenie Meyer


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I surprised myself and liked this more than I thought I would. Yes, it has some of the same issues that movies have that are adaped from books, like being true to the book. There were things and scenes that were not in the book. I love details and to have any part of something I love abreviated is a little dis heartening but I do understand why they did it. This is the visual cliff notes version of Twilight. The drawings are very accurate and I can appreciate the artist interpretation of some of the characters better than how the casting directors have done with styling the actors in the movies. Ms. Kims talent is evident and adds a refreshing turn to a wonderful story.

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