Promotional: The Fairytale Keeper: Avenging the Queen by Andrea Cefalo

Occasionally I'm willing to promote a book even if I haven't read it, because I think the premise sounds incredibly interesting. This is one of those books. I haven't read it, but it sounds like something I'd really enjoy! So, here's a little something from the author. Let me know what you think!
I’ve been asked before what my favorite fairy tale is and that’s a difficult question to answer because I love so many of them. So instead of choosing my favorite, I’ve decided to write about the tale that has been a part of my life the longest. People might assume that tale is Snow White since I’ve decided to write a four book series on it. They would be wrong.
Cinderella was the story I grew up hearing, the movie I grew up watching, the doll I grew up playing with. Why, you ask? It all has to do with the multi-million dollar Disney Princess franchise. A trip to most clothing or toy stores will result in an encounter with Disney’s most famous ladies: Arielle, Belle, Aurora, Snow White, Cinderella, and Jasmine. Although matching one’s daughter to a Disney princess wasn’t as popular in the eighties as it is today, my parent’s managed to be ahead of the trend. Katie, my older, raven-haired sister, became the Snow White of the family, while I, the butterscotch blond was dubbed Cinderella.
During my childhood, the only Cinderella I was familiar with was the Disney Cinderella. You know the one: two ugly stepsisters, one wicked stepmother, talking mice, and a fairy Godmother. It really is quite an innocent little story, isn’t it? It wasn’t until college that I learned how many Cinderella stories there truly are. France, Germany, Italy, China, India, and Native America all have their own versions.
That day, the story of Cinderella changed for me. It made me realize something about people everywhere. We desperately hold out hope that those who suffer, like Cinderella does at the hand of her wicked step family, will be redeemed. I like that. I think it shows the good in us.
Since then, I have read some of these versions which differ greatly from their Disney counterpart. My personal favorite, which should come to no surprise, is the German (Grimm’s Brothers) version, Aschenputtel. In my opinion, it is a darker version of the tale. The wicked stepmother is so desperate for her daughters to become princesses that she makes them cut off parts of their own feet in order to fit into Cinderella’s dainty slipper. I’ve always been a fan of the Romantic period in art and literature. I love the emotional extremes within that movement and in this telling of Cinderella, though it’s rather strange to think that this is the kind of tale that was told to children. I’m sure my parents would have thought twice about buying me Cinderella dolls had that been the only version of the tale. It makes you wonder what we would know of fairy tales today if it hadn’t been for the animators at Disney!




Links for THE FAIRYTALE KEEPER and Andrea Cefalo:

Andrea Cefalo's Twitter
Andrea Cefalo's Facebook
Andrea Cefalo's Web page
The Fairytale Keeper on Goodreads
Andrea Cefalo's You Tube
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Dark Kiss (Nightwatchers #1) by Michelle Rowen (4/5 Stars)

Title: Dark Kiss (Nightwatchers #1)
Author: Michelle Rowen
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Pub. Date: May 29, 2012

Blurb from Goodreads:
I don't do dangerous. Smart, über-careful, ordinary Samantha-that's me. But I just couldn't pass up a surprise kiss from my number-one unattainable crush. A kiss that did something to me...something strange. Now I feel hungry all the time, but not for food. It's like part of me is missing-and I don't know if I can get it back. Then there's Bishop. At first I thought he was just a street kid, but the secrets he's keeping are as intense as his unearthly blue eyes. If he's what I think he is, he may be the only one who can help me. But something terrifying is closing in, and the one chance Bishop and I have to stop it means losing everything I ever wanted and embracing the darkness inside me.... NIGHTWATCHERS When angels and demons must work together, something beyond evil is rising...

My Review:
For awhile now, I've been steering clear of most YA fiction involving angels of any kind. I've just read a couple that I haven't been too impressed with. However, I decided to give DARK KISS a try after seeing it on Net Galley and hearing some positive things about it. I am sooo glad I did.

The story starts with an average teen girl, Samantha, who FINALLY gets a kiss from her longtime crush. And instead of a choir of angels singing (hehe), and bells ringing, we find out the kiss wasn't exactly a GOOD thing.

After Sam experiences this kiss and decides to go home, she runs into Bishop, an angel sent from Heaven. And, Bishop is everything you'd expect an angel to be. He's dreamy, kind, and level-headed. Well, at least that's what we know of him now. It's apparent from the beginning that there's some supernatural connection between Sam and Bishop and that they are just NOT going to be able to stay away from each other.

I liked that as the story unfolds, so do the characters. I learned that what you see isn't necessarily what you get with any of the people in this book. Right down to Kraven, the demon who is a part of Bishop's team on earth, to keep order in Sam's town. I started out assuming certain things about everyone and then gradually came to realize that there was so much more under the surface. I'm hoping the next book explores more of these characters' personalities. I have a feeling that some of the people I thought were "bad", may not really be.

I definitely suggest reading this book. Even if, like me, you may not really be into angels. DARK KISS is a very original story and I'm eager for the rest of the series, already.

My Rating: 4/5 Stars


PRE-ORDER Dark Kiss on Amazon.

PRE-ORDER Dark Kiss on Barnes and Noble.

Check out Michelle Rowen's Page.
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The Vampire Underground (Grisly High #1) by Brian Rowe (4/5 Stars)

Title: The Vampire Underground (Grisly High #1)
Author: Brian Rowe
Publisher: Independant
Pub. Date: April 3, 2012

Blurb from Goodreads:
16-year-old Brin Skar hates everything to do with the supernatural, so the obsessive film geek isn't happy when she discovers that her junior year Film class at Grisly High is devoted to the horror genre. She's even more disconcerted when she learns that six groups in the class will be writing and directing their very own horror movies.

Brin and five classmates travel to Bodie Ghost Town in California to shoot their creepy film, but they soon find themselves fighting a real terrifying threat when a clan of mean, bloodthirsty vampires emerge from beneath the surface and start attacking the group. The teens, headed by Brin and the egotistical director Anaya Frost, have no help from the outside and become outnumbered by the vampires a hundred to one.

But when Brin meets Paul, a helpful and smoldering vampire outcast who's had enough of his shameful life, she realizes he might be the only key to her survival.

My Review:
I somehow didn't expect this book to be as scary as it was. It may be because of the "cartoonish" cover (Which I LOVE by the way!--Read the book to figure out why there's a tongue in her hand.) or I just underestimated to the creativity of Brian Rowe. OR, more than likely I just figured this would be another "fluffy" vampire piece. As I've stated before, I absolutely LOVE vampire stories. Even ones that are, indeed, fluffy. But, there is a part of me that craves some good old-fashioned, scary, blood-thirsty, vampire horror.

I think I also figured a book geared to teens or young adults couldn't possibly be too scary. As soon as I read the first few pages, however, I knew that the book was going to be something great.

While there may be some hints at a "romantic" element, the book focuses more on building up the characters and the deep, frightening world that lay underneath the ghost town of Brodie. And although I love a good romance, I really liked how this book was structured. This is a first in a series and we not only get a great story, and a quick understanding of the horrors of this fictional world, but we also get set up for future horrors (and a POSSIBLE future not-so-platonic relationship).

There are some characters in this book that, when I was reading this story, I felt like I knew them. The girl at school that has something to prove, the popular girl that continues to surprise you, and the down-to-earth film-geek that ends up playing a bigger part in the story than you thought possible.

I also found myself laughing at some of the monologues by certain characters. And I think that's what I really appreciated most about THE VAMPIRE UNDERGROUND. There were moments of extreme humor, and then moments of extreme horror. Either way, Brian Rowe kept me entertained the entire time!

If you enjoy being a little scared, if you enjoy vampires, and/or if you enjoy a creative story with some original plotlines, definitely check out this book!


My Rating: 4/5 Stars

Purchase The Vampire Underground on Amazon.
Check out Brian Rowe's Twitter Page.
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Cover Reveal: Redheads Are Soulless by Heather M. White

Title: Redheads Are Soulless
Author: Heather M. White
Pub. Date: Unknown

Blurb:
High School senior, Sofia Black, has had a very hard life. Since her father's death 7 years ago, she has had to look after her drug addicted, alcoholic mother. School isn't any better for her either. The other kids constantly tease, and ridicule her. All she wants is to get out of her small hometown in Alabama.
When new student, Jason, shows up, Sofia's world is turned upside down. She doesn't understand why he wants to befriend her so badly... And, just when she thinks she can trust him, trouble appears.
Jason's twin brother, Robbie, moves into town, and things go haywire. Sofia is now running for her life - and Jason is forced to share hidden secrets with her. She learns the truth about her father's death, and finds out that she may not be as "human" as she once thought. She struggles to accept her fate, while fighting for her life.

My Take:
First off, I think the cover is beautiful! Seriously, gorgeous. And, I happen to be drawn to books based on their covers sometimes (yeah, I know, I know), so I think the cover gives this book instant appeal for me. Secondly, I like the sound of the plot. I just got a book by Ms. White, and I can't wait to read it. I've heard great things about her writing, so I'm really holding out hope that this will be a win!

Redheads Are Soulless Links:
Link to Heather M White's Blog
SupaGurl Books Blog<---Created the beautiful cover!!



Redheads are Soulless





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Waiting On Wednesday[#4]: Beguiled (Immortal Essence #2) by Rashelle Workman


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

Title: Beguiled (Immortal Essence #2)
Author: Rashelle Workman
Publisher: Polished Pen Press
Publication Date: May 2012


Blurb from Goodreads:
On Kelari, Hell exists. It’s known as Helker.
Ramien is the God of that realm. He’s beautiful, wicked, and oh, so beguiling. Within his empire are three spheres, each worse than the one before.
That's where Venus must go.
Into the lowest sphere—known as X. Her parents' souls are captives there. The only way to rescue them is by making a pact with Ramien.
Venus has to complete three trials. They seem impossible. They certainly won’t be easy. Worst of all, someone she loves won't make it out alive.

Why Am I Waiting?
EXILED (Immortal Essence #1) ended with so many questions unanswered. Will Venus find her parents? What about her sister? Will she get to see Michael again? What is Michael doing? I'm really hoping to get the answers I want to these questions and more. Although, I'm sure once this one is over, I'll be eagerly anticipating DOVETAIL, as well. I'm also wanting to see what life is like on Kelari, Venus' home. Rashelle Workman has made this a wonderful series so far, and I can't wait to find out what happens!
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Night of the Purple Moon by Scott Cramer (4.5/5 Stars)

Title: Night of the Purple Moon
Author: Scott Cramer
Pub. Date: March 25, 2012

Blurb from Goodreads:
What happens after space dust decimates the adult population.

For months, astronomers have been predicting that Earth will pass through the tail of a comet. They say that people will see colorful sunsets and, best of all, a purple moon.

But nobody has predicted the lightning-fast epidemic that sweeps across the planet on the night of the purple moon. The comet brings space dust with it that contains germs that attack human hormones. Older teens and adults die within hours of exposure.

On a small island off the coast of Maine, a group of teens and children struggle to survive in this new world, but all the while they have inside them a ticking time bomb — adolescence.

My Review:
Night of the Purple Moon was quite the surprise for me. Don't get me wrong, just from reading the premise, I figured I would enjoy this book. But, I had absolutely no idea that it would produce the emotional response that it did.

The book starts out normal enough, with 13-year-old, Abby, her 12-year-old brother, Jordan, and her two-year old sister, Toucan. They have just moved to Castine Island with their father while their mother holds a job back in their old hometown of Cambridge, Massachusetts. Abby isn't too happy about being on this island, as she severely misses her old life back home (friends, mom, school, etc...).

Meanwhile, there's excitement, worldwide, over the arrival of the comet, Rudenko-Kasparov, that is going to enter the Earth's atmosphere, and turn the moon a pretty purple color from the space dust (hence, "PURPLE MOON"). As would realistically happen, people are capitalizing by selling purple soft drinks, food, you name it.

And here is where the story takes a turn. As you can read from the premise, all older teens and adults die from the dust that everyone is now breathing. Thus leaving only younger teens and...babies. Yes, THIS is where I had a hard time. I blame it on the "mommy" in me, but just the thought of little ones being left to take care of themselves... I was drawn all the more into the story and couldn't read fast enough to find out what happens to these defenseless children.

Now, as with any other dystopian novel, you not only have to worry about whatever "natural" disaster that caused chaos, but you have to worry about others who pick on the weaker ones in a disaster, such as this one. Sadly, I think that Mr. Cramer really hit the nail on the head. Unfortunately, this book probably very accurately illustrates the depravity of even our younger children. I won't give anything away, since I don't do spoilers, but there were a few parts where I had goosebumps, just imagining this happening. Mr. Cramer made it THAT believable and real.

I definitely suggest you read this book. The writing is fantastic, the story is fantastic, and it has, most assuredly, left an impression on me.

My Rating: 4.5/5 Stars

Purchase Night of the Purple Moon on Amazon.
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The Acropolis Blog Tour

R.K. Ryals has stopped by my blog today for her blog tour for The Acropolis. Here is an excerpt from the book, and make sure you follow the rest of the tour with the links below! Also, be sure to check out my review for THE ACROPOLIS here.

The Mark

"Conor?"
Huh? I look up to discover the whole Council has turned toward me. I straighten.
"I'm sorry."
Gibson sighs but doesn't reprimand me.
"You'll need to use caution when approaching her. The girl is a little . . . shy."
A few Council members snicker. Delilah glares at them. I just lift a brow.
"Shy?"
Rainey can't seem to help himself. He snorts. A tall man with thick, brown hair and wide shoulders, Rainey isn't the type to skirt an issue.
"Terrified may be the better description," Rainey replies.
I glance around the boardroom and realize the Council members are all avoiding my gaze. What kind of Escort job is this?
"Where am I supposed to take her?" I ask when it becomes obvious nothing more is going to be said on the whole "shy but better described as terrified" subject.
"The Acropolis."
Gibson says the word firmly as if he's expecting an argument, and by the looks shot his way, he's right. The Acropolis.
There are ancient Greek ruins called the Acropolis of Athens, but we all know he isn't referring to those. No, the Acropolis is a project set in motion by a collaboration of gargoyles, the S.O.S., and other groups devoted to protecting mankind. It is a fairly new idea, a school, which has only been in operation for two years with minimal success. It seems only plausible the mark be sent there considering her records. But while I look at Gibson with approval, the rest of the table stares at him with expressions akin to horror. Were they not aware of Gibson's plans?
"She wouldn't make it a week," Delilah practically hisses.
The Council's reaction is beginning to worry me.
"It's either that or we destroy her."
Gibson's words are final, and when he stands, we all stand with him.
"You'll take her to the Acropolis."
This last command is meant for me, and I nod as Gibson adjourns the meeting among sighs of discontent.
"You'll need to provide the school with extra protection," Rainey calls out as Gibson leaves the table. The Director doesn't turn around.
"It's taken care of."
Delilah moves up beside me as we watch Gibson exit the room.
"Is she that dangerous?" I ask.
Delilah gives me a sympathetic smile.
"No, not Emma."

To find out more about R.K. Ryals check out her blog

To find out more about The Acropolis Book Tour click here

Click here to purchase The Acropolis on Amazon

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Updates

Just wanted to give a heads up that there will be no Favorite Friday this week. Favorite Friday will be hit and miss until I get my computer back. Posting takes a LOT of time with my iPad, and I'd rather post more recent book reviews.

Also, I have several blog tours/hops coming up. And some cover reveals. So, stay tuned! :) I hope everyone has a great weekend!
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Waiting On Wednesday: Insurgent (Divergent #2)


"Waiting On Wednesday" is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.
Title: Insurgent (Divergent #2)
Author: Veronica Roth
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publication Date: May 1st, 2012



Blurb from Goodreads:
One choice can transform you—or it can destroy you. But every choice has consequences, and as unrest surges in the factions all around her, Tris Prior must continue trying to save those she loves—and herself—while grappling with haunting questions of grief and forgiveness, identity and loyalty, politics and love.

Tris's initiation day should have been marked by celebration and victory with her chosen faction; instead, the day ended with unspeakable horrors. War now looms as conflict between the factions and their ideologies grows. And in times of war, sides must be chosen, secrets will emerge, and choices will become even more irrevocable—and even more powerful. Transformed by her own decisions but also by haunting grief and guilt, radical new discoveries, and shifting relationships, Tris must fully embrace her Divergence, even if she does not know what she may lose by doing so.

New York Times bestselling author Veronica Roth's much-anticipated second book of the dystopian Divergent series is another intoxicating thrill ride of a story, rich with hallmark twists, heartbreaks, romance, and powerful insights about human nature.
Why Am I Waiting?
Well, if you've read DIVERGENT, then you know why I'm waiting. With so much left hanging at the end, I cannot wait to find out what's in store for Tris and those she cares about.
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The Lure of Shapinsay by Krista Holle

So, I just received a review copy of THE LURE OF SHAPINSAY by Krista Holle, and it sounds pretty amazing! I haven't had a chance to read it or review it yet (that'll come this summer). But, I do have the trailer and blurb for all of you to check out! When you're done watching the trailer, be sure to click on the author's button on the bottom, to check out the author's page, for some awesome loot! She's offering bookmarks and bookplates (pictured below), for just following her in a couple of places. Not so difficult, right?
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The Acropolis by R.K. Ryals

Title: The Acropolis
Author: R.K. Ryals
Publisher: Independant
Pub. Date: Marh 28, 2012
Purchase:
Amazon


"We have a new assignment for you, Mr. Reinhardt."

These words are not comforting to me. At eighteen, I am a gargoyle who has been demoted because I broke the rules. Now I have a new mission, a new mark to protect. But I don't expect Emma Chase. I don't expect to question my own race. I don't expect to care for my own mark. And I am not prepared for what I find at The Acropolis.
 
Never having read anything by Ms. Ryals before, I had NO idea what I was in for with this book! I hadn't read her previous two books in the Redemption Series, that takes place in the same universe, and features some of the same characters as ACROPOLIS. I remember being told that I would enjoy this book anyway, and it is so true!

The beginning sucked me in quickly with the introduction of both Conor and Emma. Two VERY opposite people who meet in extrememly crazy circumstances. They seem an unlikely pair at first, however, I could tell right away that, although they were so different, there was something about their personalities that would just go well together. Emma with her sweetness and loyalty (masked under intense fear) and Conor with that same loyalty but a little bit of "experience" that I felt could help Emma adjust to her new "life".

What I liked about the romantic aspect of this story, the most, is that even though Conor had to get over some of his previous prejudices just to accept WHAT Emma was, he actually becomes a much better gargoyle for it. And a better PERSON. He was already kind and a talented gargoyle but just opening up a little more made him even MORE so. And, in return, I think, knowing and caring for Conor, made Emma a stronger person. These two really did help to better each other.

I'm very much looking forward to the rest of this series and reading THE ACROPOLIS has inspired me to go out and get Ryals' Redemption Series, as well.

My Rating:

½

Check out R.K. Ryals' Page.


And be sure to check back here, this Sunday the 22nd, when The Acropois Blog Tour stops HERE! For more info and to see the beginning of the tour, check out Yound Adult Novel Reader!
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The Weepers: The Other Life by Susanne Winnacker (5/5 Stars)

Title: The Weepers: The Other Life
Author: Susanne Winnacker
Publisher: Marshall Cavendish
Publication Date: May 15, 2012

Blurb from Goodreads:
Sherry has lived with her family in a sealed bunker since things went wrong up above. But when they run out of food, Sherry and her dad must venture outside. There they find a world of devastation, desolation...and the Weepers: savage, mutant killers.

When Sherry's dad is snatched, she joins forces with gorgeous but troubled Joshua - an Avenger, determined to destroy the Weepers.

But can Sherry keep her family and Joshua safe, when his desire for vengeance threatens them all?

My Review:
Dystopian novels are extremely popular right now, and this book illustrates, perfectly, why that is. I don't know if you'd really call the monsters in this book "zombies", but they definitely fall into the same category as a zombie. They are blood-thirsty, flesh-eating, man-hunting, monsters. And boy, are Ms. Winnacker's Weepers, scary!

The description of their physical appearance, stirs up thoughts and memories of the fearsome creatures that I was afraid would be hiding under my bed as a child. I really enjoyed how original these Weepers are from other man-eating creatures that are currently out there. Some are hairy, some are not. Some are more human-looking, while others resemble humans only in the way our bodies are generally structured. But, they all have in common their general make-up. They are fast, cunning, and will hunt you down.

I enjoyed the main character, Sherry. I think I liked her best because she's someone I could totally relate to. She has the guts and the bravery, but sometimes that gets executed poorly. But, as the store unfolds, so does Sherry. She matures and comes into her own. A girl that starts off hiding with her family in a bunker, morphs into a girl ready to take on Weepers and possible other, unforeseen enemies. Which, in a significant plot twist, you find out, they are there.

Her relationship with Joshua is slow-building. In reality, however, I think this is accurate, so it makes their relationship more believable. Joshua is an endearing character. I can see from the start that he wants to protect. Not just Sherry, but anyone that he can save. And, I absolutely LOVE that about him.

This story has it all for me! You've got romance, suspense, horror, and I feel like there are sooo many places that this story can go, and I'm so excited to follow along on the ride!

My Rating: 5/5 Stars

Pre-Order THE WEEPERS on Amazon.
Pre-Order THE WEEPERS on Barnes and Noble.
Check out Susanne Winnacker's Website.
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Favorite Friday: Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead


Favorite Friday is a weekly event that I started, so that I could give my review on books that I love, that were published at least a year ago.

Title: Vampire Academy
Author: Richelle Mead
Publisher: Razorbill
Pub. Date: August 16, 2007

Blurb from Goodreads:
St. Vladimir’s Academy isn’t just any boarding school—it’s a hidden place where vampires are educated in the ways of magic and half-human teens train to protect them. Rose Hathaway is a Dhampir, a bodyguard for her best friend Lissa, a Moroi Vampire Princess. They’ve been on the run, but now they’re being dragged back to St. Vladimir’s—the very place where they’re most in danger...

Rose and Lissa become enmeshed in forbidden romance, the Academy’s ruthless social scene, and unspeakable nighttime rituals. But they must be careful lest the Strigoi—the world’s fiercest and most dangerous vampires—make Lissa one of them forever.

My Review:
If I had the time, I'd write a review on every single book in this series. Because they are all THAT good. You read one and just can't help but want to rush to the store (or online on Amazon, in my case), and buy the next book.

A long-time vampire fan, I have sometimes high expectations of a good vampire story. I expect that if you're going to deviate from the traditional "Dracula" formula, that you PLEASE make yours a believable one. Make it something that can be built upon. Something that is well thought-out and seamless. Something that will continue to impress and surprise the readers with how well the author planned everything out. Well, Ms. Mead certainly gave that to me and more.

Because amidst a very well-planned plotline, there's also a very detailed vampire mythology here that Ms. Mead crafted brilliantly. From the "good vampire"/"bad vampire" (Moroi vs. Strigoi) and dhampir to the blurring the lines of who's good and who's really bad. It's an exciting adventure that will leave you feeling like you lost some friends when all is said and done.

But, specifically, I believe this first installment is a gem all on its own. We get the foundation for Rose and Lissa's amazing friendship, a budding relationship that is a bit taboo, between Rose and Dimitri--her teacher, and a look at what it means for Lissa to be a Princess among Moroi.

Just writing this review makes me want to go pick up the book and start reading it all over again. For probably the fifth time.

Vampire Academy on Amazon.
Vampire Academy on Barnes and Noble.
Richelle Mead's website.
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Still No Computer...

Well, I still do NOT have a computer, but I've decided that I'm NOT going to let that stop me! It may take me a little longer, and may cost me a little more effort, but I will update this page with reviews, to the best of my abilities!

Thanks for you patience!
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Tangled Tides (The Sea Monster Memoirs #1) by Karen Amanda Hooper (4.5/5 Stars)

Title: Tangled Tides (The Sea Monster Memoirs #1)
Author: Karen Amanda Hooper
Publisher: Rhemalda Publishing
Pub. Date: November 4th, 2011

Blurb from Goodreads:
Yara Jones doesn’t believe in sea monsters—until she becomes one.

When a hurricane hits her island home and she wakes up with fins, Yara finds herself tangled up in an underwater world of mysterious merfolk and secretive selkies. Both sides believe Yara can save them by fulfilling a broken promise and opening the sealed gateway to their realm, but they are battling over how it should be done. The selkies want to take her life. The merfolk want something far more precious.

Treygan, the stormy-eyed merman who turned Yara mer, will stop at nothing and sacrifice everything to protect his people—until he falls for Yara. The tides turn as Yara fights to save herself, hundreds of sea creatures, and the merman who has her heart. She could lose her soul in the process—or she might open the gateway to a love that’s deeper than the oceans.

Young Adult fans of Mermaids, Selkies, Sirens and Gorgons will love this tale of the sacrifice one makes for genuine love. Love that could be lost at any moment to the ever-changing tides.

My Review:
I had NEVER read a mermaid story before, and I was a little apprehensive at first. I like a story where I can relate to the main character and really just get lost in everything that's going on. I was worried that with this story, that wouldn't be able to happen. I was so wrong! This book has taught me to keep a more open mind when it comes to books, because I could be missing some really great stories.

Yara and Treygan start off in the common "I-Can't-Stand-You-But-I'm-Drawn-To-You", complex relationship snarl. Although, given how Yara can be a little irritating in the beginning this is perfectly understandable. This was one of those situations where I could totally see why both people would be put off by the other.

Yara, who just found out her life would never be the same again was, understandably, a little panicked, and therefore, a little grating at times. And Treygan, who seems to not want to answer any of Yara's questions, has a little bit of an attitude at the beginning.

But, once I got through about half of the book, I realized that this was just setting us up for the rest of the story. There's a reason that not all of our questions are answered. There's a reason the Selkies freak me out, and there's a reason why Treygan treats Yara the way he does. And once I got to the real "meat" of the story, I could appreciate why Ms. Hooper took us there the way she did.

I appreciated the lore and mythology that was incorporated into the story. I really hope Ms. Hooper uses these, again, in her next Sea Monster Memoirs installment.

I definitely suggest reading this book. And I also suggest picking up the In His Eyes Anthology, which is free right now on Amazon. Ms. Hooper added a story from Treygan's POV, and it totally made me appreciate his character all the more!

My Rating: 4.5/5 Stars

Check out Tangled Tides on Amazon.
Check out Tangled Tides on Barnes and Noble.
Check out Karen Amanda Hooper's Page.
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New Design(Again), Contest Winner, and No Computer

So, I'm currently using my iPad for this post because I have no computer at the moment. I'm hoping to get it back within the next few days, but we'll see. :/ My iPad isn't very conducive to proper blogging.

I did update my site--again--per the advice of a beloved friend, who thought this look was more professional. I tend to agree with her. So, this is it!

And, on another note, I had a contest winner--Congrats to Katja! She is the winner of Bound by C.K. Bryant as well as some booksmarks that will will be mailed to her, especially from Ms. Bryant, herself!

So, I'm really hoping that I'll be able to get on here soon and post two reviews and my Wednesday and Friday memes. If not, I apologize, and I'll hopefully be back shortly. If I can get my hands on a friend's computer, I'm going to probably just do a bunch of my posts in advance and post them accordingly.

Thanks for your patience!
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Cover Reveal: Greta and the Goblin King by Chloe Jacobs


Title: Greta and the Goblin King
Author: Chloe Jacobs
Publisher: Entangled Publishing
Pub. Date: November 13, 2012

Blurb:
While trying to save her brother four years ago, Greta was thrown into the witch’s fire herself, falling through a portal to a dangerous world where humans are the enemy, and every ogre, goblin, and ghoul has a dark side that comes out with the full moon.

To survive, seventeen-year-old Greta has hidden her humanity and taken the job of bounty hunter—and she’s good at what she does. So good, she’s caught the attention of Mylena’s young Goblin King, the darkly enticing Isaac, who invades her dreams and undermines her determination to escape.

But Greta’s not the only one looking to get out of Mylena. The full moon is mere days away, and an ancient evil knows she’s the key to opening the portal. If Greta fails, she and the lost boys of Mylena will die. If she succeeds, no world will be safe from what follows her back…

My Take:
This book sounds phenomenal!!! I cannot WAIT to read this! Not having read anything by Chloe Jacobs before, I think I'm going to go look and see if there's anything out there that I can get my hands on right now. Just to hold me over.

Also, be sure to check back here in September for for an exclusive excerpt!

About the Author:
Chloe Jacobs is a native of nowhere and everywhere, having jumped around to practically every Province of Canada before finally settling in Ontario where she has now been living for a respectable number of years. Her husband and son are the two best people in the entire world, but they also make her wish she'd at least gotten a female cat. No such luck. And although the day job keeps her busy, she carves out as much time as possible to write. Bringing new characters to life and finding out what makes them tick and how badly she can make them suffer is one of her greatest pleasures, almost better than chocolate and fuzzy pink bunny slippers.

GRETA & THE GOBLIN KING Links:

Great and the Goblin King on Goodreads.
Pre-Order Greta and the Goblin King at Barnes and Noble.

Additional links to Chloe’s pages:
Chloe Jacob's Twitter Page
Chloe Jacob's Facebook Page.
Chloe Jacob's Homepage


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Favorite Friday: Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen

From today on, I'm not going to give a rating to my "Favorite Friday" book choice. I think it's safe to assume that these are books that I recommend to all. So, with that said, here's my "Favorite Friday"!

Blurb from Goodreads:
Elizabeth Bennet is the perfect Austen heroine: intelligent, generous, sensible, incapable of jealousy or any other major sin. That makes her sound like an insufferable goody-goody, but the truth is she's a completely hip character, who if provoked is not above skewering her antagonist with a piece of her exceptionally sharp -- but always polite -- 18th century wit. The point is, you spend the whole book absolutely fixated on the critical question: will Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy hook up?

My Review:
PRIDE AND PREJUDICE was first published in 1813 to, mostly, great reviews. This is no surprise to me, as this book is one of those that I could probably pick up and read a few times a year. I could most definitely write my own book on how much I love this book and all of it's charming qualities. But, instead of doing that, I'll just keep it short.
So, Elizabeth Bennet is probably one of the most foreward-thinking characters in any book that I've read from this time-period. Seriously, this girl is a rock star! I've never been so impressed with the in-your-face, but simultaneously, oh-so-subtle wit of a lady from this century. Even when you'd think she'd be going in a corner and crying her eyes out, she keeps her chin--and her attitude--up with finesse and a startling contemporary grasp on humor.

Then, there's Darcy. I'm pretty sure all modern-day "bad boys" are modeled after Mr. Darcy. No? Oh, well, then they should be. It's not even that he's necessarily BAD. But, he sure is a man with a tough outer-shell that just needs the right girl to break through. (Enter Elizabeth.)

The slow-building romance, that seems more akin to that of a train wreck at times, is beautifully done. You have two characters with so many opinions between the two of them, that you are thrown into a world where the odds seem against them, but how could they NOT end up together?!

Plus, there's humor, drama, and more love-story goodness with Jane and Mr. Bingley. Plus, Elizabeth's family is going to keep you guessing as to what ridiculously embarrassing things they will do next.

If you are a reader and you haven't read PRIDE AND PREJUDICE, just do me a favor and put whatever book you're reading down, right now, and grab a copy of this book. Keep in mind that you can find it for free. Yup.
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Waiting on Wednesday: Destined (Wings #4) by Aprilynne Pike
"Waiting On Wednesday" is a weekly event, hosted by Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

Title: Destined (Wings #4)
Author: Aprilynne Pike
Publisher: HarperCollins
Publication Date: April 26, 2012


Blurb from Goodreads:
Laurel faces the fight of her life to save everything, and everyone, she loves. This is the final part of the extraordinary faerie tale which began in the bestselling novel Wings described by Stephenie Meyer as 'a remarkable debut'.

Laurel lived happily as an ordinary girl—until she discovered that she was a faerie. Since then her heart has been divided—Avalon or the human world? Safe reliable David or wild, charismatic Tamani? But now an enemy unlike any before, threatens Avalon and unless the faerie world can win out, there may be no choices left...

An extraordinary faerie tale of magic and mystery, romance and danger.

Why Am I Waiting?
I've been reading these books since they first came out. And, I've been DYING for them to come to their conclusion so Laurel and Tamani can have their happily-ever-after. Ok, so I really don't know WHO Laurel will end up with, but a girl can dream, can't she?
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The Path by H.K. Savage (3.5 Stars)

Title: The Path
Author: H.K. Savage
Publisher: Staccato Publishing
Publication Date: March 25, 2012

Blurb from Goodreads:
Magick is real. And there is a secret world complete with its own agency, Veritas, to control those who would wield their power over “regulars”, or threaten the secrecy that keeps them all safe from the persecution that nearly destroyed them. For Cassie, a mixed blood witch, it’s the only world she’s ever known though she’s never embraced her role as agent for Veritas. For Drew, a witch born to a non-magickal family, it answers so many of his questions. It is also the cause of so much loss and pain. And now, as he and Cassie attempt to find his missing brother, rumored to be working with a rogue witch and cult leader, it threatens to take the last of his family. Or will magick save it?

My Review:
I found myself putting off this book in the beginning because it was a little slow for the first couple of chapters. The fact that the story didn't grab me immediately, is one of the reasons I didn't give this book 4 stars.

Once I decided to commit myself to getting past, what I hoped was just a rough beginning, I was very happy that I did! The story does, indeed, redeem itself just a few chapters in. I found that I was halfway through and totally invested in the characters in just a few hours.

What I most thoroughly enjoyed about this story was that the main character, Cassie, really comes into her own by the end of the story. She started out unsure of herself and her talent as an investigator for Veritas, and a fledgling witch. After a chance meeting with the story's antagonist, however, Cassie discovered her power and just progressively gets more and more amazing.

Also, I enjoyed the romantic aspect of the story. I found that Ms. Savage was able to weave the romance in while not at all taking away from the rest of the story and what was going on while Cassie and Drew's relationship changed.

I will definitely read the next installment, in what I hope will be a series. I am a fan of Savage's writing.

My Rating: 3.5/5 Stars

Buy this book on Amazon.
Buy this book on Barnes & Noble.
Check out the author's page.
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Another Indelible Giveaway!

Yes, I'm doing another giveaway. And, yes it's ANOTHER book by an Indelible. Why? Because I LOVED this book! Here's a snippet:
Title: Bound (The Crystor)
Author: C.K. Bryant
Publisher: Dragonfly Press
Publication Date: November 11th 2011
When a photo shoot ends in tragedy, Kira discovers her best friend, Lydia, has been keeping a secret. Knowing the truth, and accepting it, will change Kira’s life forever and thrust her into a world of ancient curses, magical objects, and savage enemies. What happens next will challenge everything Kira knows about her world, herself and the shape-shifting warrior she’s falling in love with. No longer the timid mouse her mother accused her of being, but a woman who finds the mental and physical strength to endure and survive.

BOUND is a heroic tale of true friendship, infinite sacrifice and untamed love.


If you'd like to win a Kindle copy of BOUND, you MUST fill out the Rafflecopter form below. And you MUST be at least 13 years of age. Good luck!
Read more »
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Warm Bodies by Isaac Marion (4/5 Stars)

Title: Warm Bodies
Author: Isaac Marion
Publisher: Atria
Publication Date: April 26th 2011 (In the USA)

R is a young man with an existential crisis--he is a zombie. He shuffles through an America destroyed by war, social collapse, and the mindless hunger of his undead comrades, but he craves something more than blood and brains. He can speak just a few grunted syllables, but his inner life is deep, full of wonder and longing. He has no memories, noidentity, and no pulse, but he has dreams.

After experiencing a teenage boy's memories while consuming his brain, R makes an unexpected choice that begins a tense, awkward, and stragely sweet relationship with the victim's human girlfriend. Julie is a blast of color in the otherwise dreary and gray landscape that surrounds R. His decision to protect her will transform not only R, but his fellow Dead, and perhaps their whole lifeless world.

Scary, funny, and surprisingly poignant, Warm Bodies is about being alive, being dead, and the blurry line in between.

(Description courtesy of Goodreads.)


To say that this book was a surprise is an understatement. Who ever would have believed that someone could actually make a zombie/human romance believable or (WONDER OF WONDERS), actually APPEALING?! Certainly not me!

But, there it is. I found myself not only tolerating R, but actually rooting for him. Now, I do spoiler-free reviews on here, but let me just say, R wasn't quite so pleasant when we first meet him. Not that he was EVIL, per se, just that he was your typical zombie. Well, ALMOST typical. But, he morphs into a completely likeable, uh, "guy". I'll be honest. I found myself liking him more than Julie. I know. Weird.

WARM BODIES is told from R's point of view, and I really think the book wouldn't have been as solid any other way. There's no way anyone could have understood R or what motivated him without this.

Marion's zombies are quite different than most. You get a taste of this when you first witness the interactions between the zombies when they're all together, doing their zombie "thing". They have actual relationships and bonds. Again, I think it's imperative to the story for us to see this. To see that there's a "glimmer" there, a bit of humanity--if you will, under the surface.

Read WARM BODIES. And while you're at it, see if you can pick up on the Romeo and Juliet parallels. Marion very craftily wove those in, in a way that I didn't even notice until about half-way through the book. But, that could be because I'm just slow. :)

My rating: 4/5 Stars


Buy this book on Amazon.
Buy this book on Barnes & Noble.
Check out the author's page.

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