Taking a break...

So for those of you who follow this...not sure anyone does...I am taking a break from the reviewing bit for awhile. I have a lot going on right now, and even though I am reading like crazy (that won't stop), my reviews will be few and far between. I apologize! Between my kids, my husband and the stress of my job right now I just can't keep up! I will try to review my very favorites that I read. I promise to be back soon...and KEEP READING!!!

Twisted

His vampire girlfriend might have brought him back to life, but he's never felt more out of control. THere's a darkness within him, something taking over...changing him. Worse, because he was meant to die, death now stalks him at every turn. Any day could be his last.

Once upon a time, the three souls trapped inside his head could have helped him. He could have protected himself. But as the darkness grows stronger, the souls grow weaker-just like his girlfriend. The more vampire Aden becomes the more human Victoria becomes, until everything they know and love is threatened.

Life couldn't get any worse. Could it?

HAve I mentioned that I really love this series? It is so unique anad different and it gets better with each book! When we left Aden and Victoria, Aden had just been stabbed and Victoria made the split second decision to save him. AS we open up in Twisted, Aden and Victoria are holed up in a cave and it is literally a fight to see who will live. I honestly wondered if Gena was going to kill one of them off! After the finally fight off the blood lust and get out of the cave...things start changing. I have to admit I really didn't like Aden for awhile. As his body changed from human to vamp...he became a total jerk! I know why...after I kept reading...but still, it irritated me! And my heart broke for Victoria! She wanted to save him because she loved him and now he doesn't want anything to do with her...ouch! Of course you have to throw in a challenge for the crown from Vic's long lost brother Sorin, and the fact that Vlad is getting stronger and now able to hurt them where it counts.

Then there is Riley and Mary Ann. Oh how I love Riley! Not unlike Victoria with Aden, Riley loves Mary Ann...something he never thought possible. And yet, she keeps running from him, to protect him. Mary Ann is desperatly afraid that she will drain Riley, and so she backs off.

Mary Ann finds Aden's dad...JERK, Tucker causes all sorts of mayham, Riley and Mary Ann almost die, Julien leaves Aden, and to wrap it all up...Aden makes a decision that will change all of their lives...and maybe not in a good way!

Like I said this book was AMAZING! I love the characters! My heart ached for Victoria and Mary Ann...I wanted to reach out and slap Aden at times...and my wolf boy Riley...he needs to be happy! The ending left me near tears...and I can't believe I have to wait a year to find out what happens next. There are only a few possible things that I can live with :)!

I gave this book 5 apples!

Undercurrent

From the front cover:
Nothing has been normal since Vanessa Sands learned that her sister was murdered by Sirens-femme fatales of the watery depths-and that everything she believed about her family was a lie.

Her boyfriend Simon's been the only person Vanessa feels she can really trust. But now there are some secrets she can't tell even him. And when Vanessa finds herself in the sights of Parker. Hawthorne Prep's resident charmer, she needs someone to confide in now more than ever. Doubting her relationship with Simon, unsure of Parker's intentions-and of her own-and terrified by what she's learned about herself, Vanessa has never felt so alone.

But personal problems must be put aside, because the Winter Harbor sirens are back for revenge. Now, Vanessa must face her past and accept that she is just like her enemies-every bit as alluring, every bit as dangerous.

I have to admit that I liked Siren a whole lot more than Undercurrent...but I still liked it. This book was more melancholy than Siren...Vanessa is still dealing with the loss of her sister, and coming to terms with the fact that she is a siren. And due to that new little tidbit of information, she starts doubting Simon's love for her. Here is where I get a little irritated! How hard is it to write characters who are firm in who they are? Simon is...and it urked me that Vanessa couldn't see that! If he knew she was a siren...he would have dealt with that and still loved her! Instead, Vanessa breaks up with him, and then has a series of "unfortunate" events with Parker. With the Winter Harbor sirens out for revenge...you'd think she would be more careful...you never know who Simon might turn to. One of the most amazing and poingent parts in the book is this:

"I feel differently." His hands, still holding mine, trembled. "That's how I know it was real. Because if it wasn't, your powers would have fixed everything already. I would've forgotten what you did even before I had forgiven you." He paused, took a shallow, shaky breath. "I'd love you now as much as I did before."

Talk about heart wrenching! Part of me wants to feel bad for Vanessa, and the other part thinks she got what she deserved. I am insterested to see what will happen in the next book. With no Simon and other things, it may be boring! Don't get me wrong this was a good book! I am glad that Vanessa finally got the answers she deserved about her life, and everything....I just hate that Simon got hurt in the process...and then...what about Parker? Only time will tell I guess!

I gave this book 4 apples!

Bloodlines

From the front cover:
Sydney's blood is special. That's because she's an alchemist-one of a group of humans who dabble in magic and serve to bridge the worlds of human and vampires. They protect vampire secrets-and human lives. But the last encounter Sydney had with vampires got her in deep trouble with the other alchemists. And now with her allegiances in question, her future is on the line.

When Sydney is torn from her bed in the middle of the night, at first she thinks she's still being punished for her complicated allegiance with dhampir Rose Hathaway. But what unfolds is far worse. Jill Dragomir-the sister of Moroi Queen Lissa Dragomir-is in mortal danger, and the Moroi must send her into hiding. TO avoid a civil war, Sydney is called upon to act as Jill's guardian and protector posing as her roommate in the most unlikeliest of places: a human boarding school in Palm Springs California. The last thing Sydney wants is to be accused of sympathizing with vampires. And now she has to live with one.

The Moroi court believe that Jill and Sydney will be safe at Amberwood Prep, but threats, distractions, and forbidden romance lurk both outside-and within-the school grounds. Now that they're in hiding, the drama is only beginning.

Okay, I am warning you now that I am going to be such a girl and gush about this book! I loved Vampire Academy....so, so much and couldn't wait for this next series to come out...and then I read the reviews! There weren't that many positive reviews on Bloodlines (sadly)...I am here to dispute that!

I LOVED this book! I have to admit that when Sydney first made an appearance in the VA books, she was a little know-it-all, and annoying, but by the end she really grew on me. So I was excited to see that this book was from her point of view (not as excited as I was when it was going to be from Adrian's POV...sigh...but excited). I wasn't disappointed! I LOVE Sydney! She is snarky, smart, cute, independant, I could go on and on, and on! I felt for her as we got to know more about her home life and her dad (jerk), and how truly isolated she had been...even if she has been all over the world traveling. Jill reminds me of Lissa...just a little bit. But where Lissa was so dependant on Rose, Jill is determined to be self sufficient. And Adrain...how can you NOT love him?!? My heart was broken in pieces for him at the end of the VA series, and I was glad to see that he kept his word...he and Rose are not friends...at least not at the moment. Adrian has gone through a lot and it was nice to see the changes (both good and bad) that he has gone through. Sometimes it's hard to think that he is only 21...he seems so much older sometimes! I love Dmitri...but I have to say Adrian really stole my heart in this book!

There was some really nice surprises...like seeing Rose at the first of the book. I missed her throughout the book, but Sydney can really hold her own as a heroine...at least in my opinion anyway. I wish I had half the smarts, that she does, and I wished I followed my instincts like she did! Who would have thought that she would have cracked several things wide open, and save the day in more ways than one? The ending...how can I share the ending with out spoiling it?

WARNING:SPOILER AHEAD!!!

I CAN'T!!! So...here is the ending line of the book and tell me you could keep it secret:

"Dmitri Belikov had arrived."

To say I am excited and stunned is an understatement! Oh, I soooo can't wait for the next book! There are going to be definate fireworks with Adrian and Dmitri together...and we only have to wait until June 19, 2012...YIKES!!! This is a MUST READ!!

I gave this book 5 apples!

All You Desire

From the jacket cover:
Haven Moore fled to Rome a year ago, leaving the Ouroboros Society and it's diabolical leader, Adam Rosier. Now she's back in New York City with her beloved Iain. But, Iain's supposed to be dead. And if they blow his cover, Adam won't give them any second chances.

Meanwhile, Beau Decker is missing. His life rests in Haven's hands. The Horae, a group of mystical sisters, hold the key to Beau's fate. They want to lock Adam away forever, and Haven is his only weakness. To save Beau, Haven must seduce Adam and lure him into the Horae's lair.

But Adam Rosier has always had a funny way of seducing her. And the closer Haven gets to her enemy, the more she succumbs to his spell. Beau's life hangs in the balance-but this time Haven can't even trust herself. Every decision she makes will shape her destiny.

The Eternal One's series is such an interesting look at reincarnation. The story is so different from other's in the same genre, it's refreshing. In All You Desire we learn more about Haven, and see a completly different side to Adam I would have never thought existed! It was refreshing to see Haven rush to Beau's aid, even if it meant that Iain might be caught alive. She meets several interesting new friends along this adventure, and we get to see several old friends as well. Leah is back, and she is just as refreshing as always! I love how she seems to be able to comfort Haven and help her follow her heart. However, her prophecy is a lot terrifying! Iain is Iain...and he does what he does best...gives Haven her space and then comforts her when she falls. One new friend who I hope (and think we will) see a lot more of in future installments is Owen. Can't say to much...you have to read the book :)!

I really enjoy these books alot. I can't wait to see where the story ends up next...because boy did she leave us with a cliffhanger! And seriously if your going to leave us with a cliffhanger like that, the least you can do is have the book come out sooner!

I gave this book 4 apples!

We'll Always Have Summer

WARNING: MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS!!!From the jacket cover:

Belly has only ever been in love with two boys, both with the last name Fisher. And after being with Jeremiah for the last two years, she's almost positive he is her soul mate.

Almost.

Conrad has not gotten over the mistake he made when he let Belly go, even as Jeremiah has always know that Belly is the girl for him. So when Belly and Jeremiah decide to make things forever, Conrad realizes that it's now or never-tell Belly he loves her, or lose her for good. Belly will have to confront her feelings for Jeremiah and Conrad and face a truth she has possibly always known. She will have to break one of their hearts.

First of all let me just say Jeremiah annoyed the he** out of me in this book. Talk about a typical frat boy! Even once he asked Belly to marry him...really?!? Time to grow up Jere. I was frustrated with Belly too. How in the world do you say yes to marrying a man who cheated on you? I liked this book, but I wanted to slap each of the characters...at least once...if not twice!

Jeremiah was just being himself (which is not a bad thing), but I wanted to see him grow up! And Conrad...he missed so many chances to tell Belly how he really felt...oh...until the night before her wedding?!?!? I think that has been overdone in movies and books now! And as for Belly...I loved seeing her grow up and trying to take responsibilty for herself, and her wedding, and Jeremiah. My heart broke for her knowing that she loved them both and would have to make a heart wrenching decision. I wanted her to be honest with herself though, and quit brushing her feelings for Conrad under the rug.

I am sad that this series is over! I would love to have more Belly and Conrad..especailly Conrad! I really did like this book...I read it and the one before it in a day...totally got sucked into the story! I LOVED the way it ended...sigh...nothing better than happy ending! This is a great relaxing read that will make you swoon!

I gave this book 4 apples!

It's Not Summer Without You

WARNING: DO NOT READ THIS REVIEW IF YOU HAVEN'T READ THE REVIEW FOR THE FIRST BOOK...IT WILL HAVE SPOILERS!!!! From inside jacket cover:
It used to be that Belly counted the days until the summer, until she as back at Cousin's Beach with Conrad and Jeremiah. But not this year. Not after Susannah got sick again and Conrad stopped caring. Everything that was right and good has fallen apart, leaving Belly wishing summer would never come.

But when Jeremiah calls saying Conrad has disappeared, Belly knows what she must do to make things right again. And it can only happen back at the beach house, the three of them together, the way it used to be. If this summer really and truly is the last summer, it should end the way it all started-at Cousin's Beach.

When we left Belly we all thought everything was going to be great and wonderful and she and Conrad would finally get together...I guess all good things that should be...come to an end before they begin! I have to say I found Belly a little irritating in this book. I felt like when Conrad needed her most she was too busy freaking out that he was going to break up with her. He was hurting...his mom died and his dad was trying to take the one thing that he had left of her. On that same note...if a guy loves a girl...flipping tell her! Don't give your brother permission to go for her...chances are...she's gonna go for him! I realize that Conrad was completley innocent in the whole debacle of their relationship...but come on...he was hurting!

The end left me completly speechless and and wondering what in the heck just happened! I know that whatever happens in the next book it will be exactly as it should be!

I gave this book 4 apples!

Once a Witch

From the jacket cover:
Tamsin Greene comes from a long line of witches, and on the day she was born, her grandmother proclaimed she would be one of the most Talented among them.

But Tamsin's magic never showed up.

Now, seventeen years later, she spends most of her time at boarding school in Manhattan, where she can at least pretend to be normal. But during the summers, she's forced to return home and work at her family's bookstore/magic shop.

One night a handsome young professor from New York University arrives at the shop and mistakes Tamsin for her extremely Talented older sister. For once, it's Tamsin who's being looked at with awe and admiration, and before she can stop herself, she agrees to find a family heirloom for him that was lost more than a century ago. But the search - and the stranger - prove to be more sinsiter than they first appeared, ultimatly sending Tamsin on a treasure hunt through time that will unlock the secret of her true identity, unearth the past sins of her family, and unleash a power so strong and so vengeful that it could destroy them all.

I really enjoyed this book...alot! I seriously read it in like four hours! I am not much of a reader of witches (I admit...their little ceremonies and rites can get a bit freaky for me), but this was an origianl story with characters you can't help but like...or fall in love with.

Tamsin is a witch whose Talent hasn't shown up yet...and it makes her feel like a failure. So when Professor Callum shows up and needs her family's help, she doesn't think, she just does. She loves her life in New York, and yet deep down she wishes that she was more a part of the family and something to offer. Then the arrival of Gabriel, her life long friend, complicates matters...in a good way. I LOVED Gabriel! He was so down to earth, and even though Tamsin didn't catch on to his flirting, he didn't stop....not to mention that he is a cutie pie!

I was hooked from the first chapter and found myself completely ingrossed in the story. It moves fast and there is lots of action. Parent's will be glad to know that there is no sexual content...just a few savory kisses. I can't wait to read the next book "Always a Witch"...the ending left me wanting more...a lot more!

I gave this book 4 apples!

Halo

From the jacket cover:
Three angels - Gabriel, the warrior; Ivy, the healer; and Bethany, the youngest and most human - are sent by Heaven to bring good to a world falling under the influence of darkenss. They work hard to conceal their luminous glow, superhuman powers, and, most dangerous of all, their wings, all the while avoiding all human attachments.

Then Bethany meets Xavier Woods, and nether of them is able to resist the attraction between them. Gabriel and Ivy to everything in their power to intervene, but the bond between Xavier and Bethany seems to strong.

The angels' mission is urgent, and dark forces are threatening. Will love ruin Bethany or save her.

I wanted so badly to love this book...and I didn't! There were so many flaws that it is hard to figure out where to start! The story is not new...not by a long shot...boy and girl fall in love only one of them happens to not be of this world...but it could have some potential. The characters are hard to love let alone like. The only two I found endearing were Xavier and Molly...the others were cold and stilted...not what I would think of when I think of angels! Bethany was sent to fulfill a mission, and yet I found her to be the epitomy of a crushing teen girl...clinging and insipid, and acting stupid! I really wanted to like her...really I did!

I would never have thought there was a time where I would say there was too much description...but alas it has happend. Some of the descirptions of Heaven and angels were not needed (seriously they were PAGES long), and I felt like they took away from the story. It didn't help it flow...at all!

I can normally read a 400+ book in two or three days...it took me a week to read this one (and yes I nearly quit...but I am not a quitter). It is very slow going! The last 80 pages where there was finally some action...not the greatest! This is where more description would have been favorable. I felt jilted out of the battle a bit.

I read the synopsis for Hades (the next book in the series) and that was what got me initially wanting to read this one. I will read Hades...I do want to see what happened, but I am just saying that if it is as slow as Halo, I will more than likely not finish it or the series...sad I know!

I gave this book 2 apples!

Circle of Fire

From the jacket cover:
Lia Milthorpe's determination to end the prophecy that has divided her family for generations is stronger than ever. With time dwindling, Lia sets out on a journey to locate the missing pieces of the prophecy needed to close the Gate, and to persuade her sister, Alice, to help - or she will have to risk her own life trying to close it herself. Lia has Dimitri by her side, but Alice has James, the man who once loved Lia - and maybe still does. James doesn't know the trught about either sister, or about the prophecy that divides them. And Alice intends to keep it that way.

There are some things sisters aren't meant to share.

And some secrets that could destroy them both.

Once again we are taken on an amazing journey in the final book in the Sisters Trilogy. It has been amazing to watch throughout the last couple of books how much Lia has matured. In this book it was nice to see Lia come into her own...make her own choices...figure out what was best for her...grow up basically! It was very depressing though that Lia let Sonia's betrayal nearly sabatoge their friendship...and that because of that, she felt like she didn't have anyone she could trust. She shoulders a huge responsibility, and do it alone was tragic!

I would have loved to see more Alice...in all the books...but this one the most. She is an invisible main character which is kind of frusterating! I loved Dimitri in this book! He is the strength of the book, and Lia as well.

I thought the ending was a bit predictable, but it wraps up the series in a great way...just the way I like it :)!

I gave this book 3 apples!

Wolfsbane

From the jacket cover:
When Calla Tor wakes up in the lair of the searchers, her sworn enemies, she's certian her days are numbered. But then the Searchers make her an offer - one that gives her the chance to destroy her former masters and save the pack - and the man - she left behind. Is Ren worth the price of her freedom? And will Shay stand by her side no matter what? Now in control of her own destiny, Calla must figure out whcih battles are worth fighting and how many trials true love can endure and still survive.

I am so in love with this story! I got hooked in Nightshade and have become fully submerged in Wolfsbane! Andrea Cremer has woven a story that is enticing, gripping, and compeling!

Calla finds herself in more than one battle in this book. She is battling her feelings for Ren and Shay, whether or not to team up with her enemies, and just what all that might mean to her and her pack...if she can save them. As an Alpha, you expect to see Calla constantly in control and knowing exactly what she should do and what she wants to do...not so much in this book. It was refreshing to see her softer more sensitive side. Shay still kind of bugs me...he is not bad...but he is still pushy! I felt like he was constantly trying to force Calla to choose between him and Ren...even if that wasn't what he was trying to do. I missed Ren in this book!And when Calla unknowingly makes her choice for her mate...I felt the betrayed for the other...in a BIG way!

There was lots of great forshadowing in this book. There were moments where I wondered one thing, and then convinced myself I was wrong....only to find out...I was RIGHT! The secrets that are revealed will leave you breathless! I loved hearing the story of how the Gaurduans, Keepers and Searchers all came to be...I even felt the loss of Calla of knowing that everything she had ever been told about her life was a lie. Slome readers felt like this was too slow for the book...I personally thought it was great, and it was something that plagued me since Nightshade so I enjoyed it immensly!

Of course Cremer couldn't leave us without a cliffhanger and she is one of the best at those! It left me wanting Bloodrose, the final book in the trilogy RIGHT NOW! Unfortunatly like all good things, we have to wait until next year...sigh!

I gave this book 5 apples!

Supernaturally

From the jacket cover:
Evie finally has the normal life she has always longed for. But she's shocled to discover that being ordinary cane be...kind of boring. Just when Evie starts to long for her days at the International Paranormal Containment Agency, she's given a chance to work for them again. Desperate for a break from all the normalcy, she agrees.

But as one disasterous mission leads to another, Evie starts to wonder if she made the right choice. And when Evie's fairie ex-boyfriend Reth appears with devastating revelations about her past, she discovers that there's a battle brewing between the fairie courts that could throw the whole supernatural world inot chaos. The prize in question? Evie herself.

So much for normal.

I LOVED Paranormal so I was so exctied to read Supernaturally, and I wasn't disappointed!

Evie's sarcasm and humor stayed firmly in place which I was very glad about. It's one of those qualities that makes her "bleepin'" endearing! It was a painful roller coast ride with her reluctance to tell Lend the truth, and her conflicting emotions over the IPCA...not unlike what we experience in lives ourselves.

I didn't however enjoy all the fighting with Lend. I find it frusterating that authors always make the couple happy in the first book and then fight in the second...but I guess it sells right? I was also sad that there wasn't a whole lot of Lend...her seemed almost secondary in this book.

The storyline was a nice surprise. I never expected it to take us where it did! I really enjoyed learning about Evie and who she was...but of course I would like more answers to those still unanswered questions about her! Jack was a nice addition to the story...even though I found him incredibly irritating! I LOVED Arianna...I hope to see more of her in the next book! Her story was really moving!

I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to finish the series up soon!

I gave this book 3 apples!

Moonglass

I read this book awhile ago and thought that I had reviewed it...OOPS!! This is a touching story about confronting the past in order to move ahead. There is humor, romance, and that all encompassing battle to find oneself in this crazy life. Read with Kleenex...there were parts that made me tear up and tore at my heart in a huge way! If you are looking for a nice, quiet, uncomplicated read this is it!

I gave this book 5 apples!

Possession

From the jacket cover:

Vi knows the rules: Girls don't walk with boys, and they never even think about kissing them. But no one makes Vi want to break the rules more than Zenn...and since the Thinkers have chosen him as Vi's future match, how much trouble can one kiss cause? The Thinkers may have brainwashed the rest of the population, but Vi is determined to think for herself.

But the Thinkers are unusually persuasive, and they're set on convincing Vi to become one of them...starting by brainwashing Zenn. Vi can't leave Zenn in the Thinkers' hands, but she is wary of joining the rebellion, especially since it means teaming up with Jag. Jag is egotistical, charasmatic, and dangerous-everything Zenn is not. Vi can't quite trust Jag and can't quite resist him, but she also can't give up on Zenn.

This is a game of control or be controlled. And Vi has no choice but to play.

This book was absolutly AMAZING!! From the very first page I was hooked! The story is so intriguing and moves incrediably fast!

Vi is a perfect heroine! She is a fighter...even if she is not sure what she is fighting for. So many lines have been blurred that she isn't sure who to trust...Jag who seems to know everything, or Zenn...her match and who is under the control of the Thinkers. All Vi wants is to be free to think for herself, make choices that she wants to make, and live a happy life. Someone wants her to use her ablilities to control her friends and neighbors...the hard part...who are the good guys and who bad guys.

Jag...what can I say about Jag except...WOW! He is like Vi...wants to be free to think for himself, and just like Vi someone wantes to use his abilities to control the population as well. There is so much chemistry between the two of them, and yet nothing goes their way...ever!

THere were so many amazing twists and turns in this book it will make your head spin...in a good way! TO me none of it was what I predicted...and the cliffhanger ending...it's going to keep you up at night...I promise!!

I gave this book 5 apples!

Matched

Cassia has always trusted thier choices. It's hardly any price to pay for a long life, the perfect job, the ideal mate. So when her best friend appears in the Matching screen, Cassia knows with complete certainty that he is the one...until she sees another face flash for an instant before the screen fades to black. Now Cassia is faced with impossible choices: between Xander and Ky, between the only life she has ever known and a path no one else has ever dared follow - between perfection and passion.

Everything is fine in Cassia's world until her Mathcing that is. When Ky's face flashes for a mere moment Cassia's life is forever changed. She should be happy that Xander, her best friend is her match, and she is...kind of. There is something about intriguing about Ky and his past, and how the Soceity was formed. Cassia's curiosity will come at a price. She will be forced to make a decision that could cost her everything she loves and values.

Blurring the lines between right and wrong, and good and bad, Matched is a breathtaking and powerful read!

I gave this book 3 apples!

Graveminder

Three sips to mind the dead...

Rebekkah Barrow never forgot the attention her grandmother Maylene bestowed ipon the dead of Claysville, the small town where Bek spent her adolescence. There wasn't a funeral Maylene didn't attend, and at each one Rebekkah watched as Maylene performed the same unusual ritual: She took three sips from a silver flask and spoke the words "Sleep well, and stay where I put you."

Now Maylene is dead, and Bek must go back to the place she left a decade earlier. She soo discovers that Claysville is not just the sleepy town she remembers, and that Maylene had good reason for her odd traditions. It turns out that in Claysville the worlds of the living and the dead and dangerously connected; beneath the town lies a shadowy, lawless land ruled by the enigmatic Charles aka Mr.D. If the dead are not properly cared for, they will come back to satiate themselves with food, drink, and stories from the land of the living. Only the Graveminder, by tradition a Barrow woman, and her Undertaker - in this case Byron Montgomery, with whom Bek shares a complicated past - can put things right once the dead begin to walk.

Although she is still grieving for Maylene, Rebekkah will soon find that she has more than a funeral to attend to in Claysville, and that wait awaits her may be for the worse: dark secrets, a centuries old bargin, a romance that still haunts her, and a frighteningly new responsibility - to stop a monster and put the dead to rest where they belong.

I loved Melissa Marss YA series The Wicked Lovely books, so I was interested to read her first adult novel. I must admit that for an adult novel it was really quite clean...there was some language, but there was not in your face sex scenes (finally)! And I have to admit that when I first started reading I got a little creeped out...and then I couldn't stop reading!!

Bek is as dysfunctional as they come! She has an insane fear of commitment, and is in denial of her feelings for Byron. Ah, Byron...Bek has a guilt complex over her feelings for him because he was her older half sisters boyfriend...that is until she took her own life. Bek thinks it is because of a kiss that she and Byron shared that Ella took her life...if only! There were a few times where I found Bek annoying and overly angsty, but the rock steadiness of Byron more than made up for it.

The story was interesting and intriguing! A town with an ancient bargin that if that dead are taken care of properly they can rise again...yes were talking full fledged ZOMBIES!! Bek and Byron are more than surprised by these revelations and by their new responsibilities as Graveminder and Undertaker...not to mention the whole relationship thing!

I am glad to know that there is a sequel to this book...there were a lot of things left to make you wonder about! The mysterious Mr.D...the bargin and can it be broken...and of course the relationship between Byron and Bek.

I am not really a fan of ghost stories or zombies AT ALL! But this book was really too good to put down!

I gave this book 5 apples!

Blood Red Road

From the jacket cover:
Saba has spent her whole life in Silverlake, a dried up wasteland ravaged by the constant dust storms. That's fine by her, as long as her beloved twin brother, Lugh, is around. But when a monster dust sandstorm arrives bearing four cloaked horsemen, Saba's world is shattered. Lugh is captured, and Saba embarks on a quest to get him back.

Suddenly thrown into the lawless, ugly reality of the world outside, Saba is lost without Lugh to guide her. So perhaps the most surprising thing of all is what Saba learns about herself: she is a fierce fighter, an unbeatable survivor, and a cunning opponent. Teamed up with a handsome
daredevil named Jack and a gang of girl revoltuionaries called the Free Hawks, Saba stages a showdown that will change the course of her civilization.

Blood Red Road has a searing pace, a poetically minimal writing style, relentless action, and an epic love story.


At first I wasn't sure I was going to like this book. I struggled with the way it was written...not one speech mark graces a page in this book! That and the dialouge...it is written exactly as Saba speaks. The language compliments the dystopian world created by Young though. What I first struggled with I cannot now imagine any other way!

Saba is a flawed character. She loves her twin brother Lugh, but hates her sister Emmi. However, Emmi and Saba's relationship grows as they are thrown into a quest to save Lugh. It doesn't happen over night though, which makes the relationship all the more human.

On her journey to save Lugh, Saba is kidnapped and forced to be a Cage fighter. There she meets another cage fighter, Jack, who she is instantly drawn to, and she has no idea why. When she is finally able to escape, she knows she can't leave without him. Her own feelings frusterate her as much as Jack's comments do.

Jack is cocky, arrogant, and good looking, and he rubs Saba the wrong way...BIG TIME!! She can't understand how she can love him and hate him at the same time. Their relationship is intense and adds just enough romance to the story.

This isn't a "romance" by any means! It is an adventure! It is a story about friendship, love, loss, trusting others and finding oneself! The characters are easy to identify with, which makes them easy to love!

If you are a fan at all of dystopian books this is a MUST READ!!

I gave this book 5 apples!!

Hourglass

One hour to re-write the past...

For seventeen year-old Emerson Cole, life is about seeing what isn't there: swooning Southern Belles; soldiers long forgotten; a haunting jazz trio that vanishes in an instant. Plauged by phantoms since her parents' death, she just wants the apparations to stop so she can be normal. She's tried everything, but the visions keep coming back.

So when her well meaning brohter brings in a consultant from a secretive organization called the Hourglass, Emeron's willing to try one last cure. But meeting Micheal Weaver may not only change her future, it may change her past.

Who is this dark, mysterious, sympathetic guy, barely older than Emerson herself, who seems to believe every crazy word she says? Why does an electric charge seem to run through the room whenever he is around? ANd why is he so insistant that he needs her to prevent a death that should have never happened?

Full of atmosphere, mystery, and romance, Hourglass merges the very best of the paranormal and science fiction genres in a seductive, remarkable young adult series.

This book was a pleasant surprise! It was one of the best time travel stories that I have read in a long time. I was hooked from the time I started reading until I put it down and even then the story kept lingering in my mind!

What is not to love about Emerson? She is a fighter for sure! Her life has been anything but fair, losing her parents and having been commited to an institution is just part of it. Then along comes Micheal who tells her she is not crazy, but special. The chemistry between Micheal and Emerson is sizzling...literally! Emerson has a way of saying all the wrong things, in front of and about Micheal...thank heavens for her "edit button" (wish I had one)!

I enjoyed some of the secondary characters as well. Kaleb is a sweet boy who you can't help but cheer for! I can't wait to read the next book in this series...it is one of those that I borrowed from the library, but I will definatly be buying for my own personal library!

I gave this book 5 apples!

The Summer I Turned Pretty

This is one of those sweet summer reads...I have to admit...I LOVE me some paranormal books, but these sweet little romances are getting to me!

We all have had a summer where everything changes, and this summer was no exception for Belly. Every summer she, her mother and her brother go to the beach house and spend it with Susannah, Conrad and Jeremiah and Belly looks forward to it for months! Maybe it's because she gets to see her long time crush Conrad. Maybe it's because she gets to spend time with her bud Jeremiah, whatever it is...she loves it. This summer is going to be AMAZING...Susannah told her it would be. When Belly arrives she notices for the first time ever that the boys actually might just see her as a girl...finally. Something is going on with Conrad and no one knows what, but Belly doesn't like it at all. Suddenly he starts acting like her older brother...not cool!

Something big is going on in the beach house...something besides hormones and crushes. Something that could change summers forever.

I soo LOVED this book! I loved how Han had some chapters were dedicated to Belly's memories of previous summers. I loved how being the only girl she always felt left out, and then when the time came for her to be with the in crowd she wasn't sure she wanted to be. Everyone wants a summer like this...first loves...ending of crushes...coming into yourself...WOW! This book has me wanting to rent a beach house somewhere for the summer! I can't wait to read the next two books in this series...so can't wait!

I gave this book 4 Apples!

Queen of the Dead

In this installment of Stacey Kades Ghost and the Goth series we start right where we left off. Alona has come back from the light for a reason she doesn't even know! She and Will are something more than friends...maybe...and yet the sudden appearance of Mina makes Alona less than comfortable. As anyone knows from Ghost and the Goth...Alona HATES to be ignored...so you can guess what happens when Will finds himself choosing between her and learning more about his father and the "Order". Needless to say...something unthinkable happens...and it will change all sorts of lives.

I love how Kade can combine both witt and romance into a book. Alona is sarcastic as ever and yet we see a side to her that hasn't yet been introduces. You realize that she really is a good person...despite outward appearances! She is right up there with the likes of Rachel Hawkins with a cliffhanger...I am dying for the next one!

I really am enjoying this series. It is a much more light hearted look at the paranormal world, which is nice for a change!

I gave this book 3 Apples!

Beauty Queens

I don't even know what to say about this book...except that it was really good. It is really hard to describe this book...it is a very interesting look at human values in way. How we tend to value all the wrong things and forget about all the other things. This book is full of satire...sarcasm...

and oddly enough sensitivity. I really enjoyed it!

I gave this book 4 Apples!

The Girl in the Steel Corset

When a young Lord tries to take advantage of Finely Jayne, she fights back...and wins. But Finely isn't a normal Victorian girl. She has a dark side that enables her to knock out full grown men...ya...so NOT normal!

Griffin King sees the darkness inside her and tells her it makes her "special", and says she is one of "them". Griff takes her in off the streets, much to the dismay of hisband of misfits. Emily who has her own special ablilities and has in inrecipracated love for Sam. Sam is part robot, and Jasper, the American cowboy with a secret.

Griff is investigating a criminal called the Machinist who is the mastermind behind several crimes my automan. THe Machinist wants nothing more than to tear Griff and his little band apart. Trust will be tested on all sides.

This was a great book...so not what I was expecting! I have a hard time with books that take a time period (like the Victorian era) and then adding something strange to it...automans for example. Somehow Kady Cross made it work in this book and I fell in love! Maybe it's the way the characters are sooo well written, or that even though there are some "modern" scientific things, they still follow the proper protocal of the times. I LOVE Griff...he is such an upstanding guy...you can't help but like him!! Finley...one love her name...and two...she wants so badly to belong somewhere you can't help but feel bad for her when everything seems to keep blowing up in her face!

I really enjoyed this book and can't wait to see where and what happens in the next adventure!

I gave this book 4 Apples!

The Chronicles of Nick

These two books are about a 14 year old boy named Nick who finds himself suddenly thrust into a life he never knew existed and still has a hard time believing it does. Not only that, but he finds out that he may someday destroy the whole world...if he can't change his ways! Luckily for him he has a couple of protectors and then there are those who could turn out to be his undoing!

I thought these books were great...however....I felt a little lost! Come to find out Sherrilyn Kenyon has a WHOLE (like 23 books) series of books that pre-date the Nick Chronicles...no wonder I felt lost! I want to read them...and yet they are adult, not sure I am wanting to pursue them that much.

The world these books are set in is crazy! It will have you wondering who Nick should trust and can her truly change his past!

I gave both books 4 Apples!

Just a few reads for ya!

Since I read so darn fast I am having a hard time keeping up with reviews...so I am just going to put some of these together in a "quick" review! Enjoy!!13 Little Blue Envelopes is one of those feel good books that you won't be able to put down!

I gave it 4 Apples!

Can't wait to read the next one!!

Steel...well the cover and the synopsis were better than the book! It took me 2 days to read 25 pages...I just couldn't get into it!

I gave this book 1 apple!

Falling Under...was totally NOT wht I expected! It was a very good and inventive story!

I gave this book 3 Apples!

The Ghost and the Goth is a great fun paranormal read...not too intense...just fun and light hearted!

I gave this book 3 Apples!

The Gathering

I have been waiting with bated breath to read this book! I loved Kelley's Darkest Powers series and couldn't wait to read her latest work (if you haven't read her Darkest Powers series...it is a MUST READ!!)!

Maya is a 17 year old girl living on an island outside of Vancover Canada. She doesn't know much about her background--the only thing she has to go by is the paw print birthmark she has. She never gave much thought to who her parents were and how she ended up with her adopted parents...until now!

Strange things are happening in her small town of Salmon Creek. Between the mountian lions who keep approaching Maya, to the strange deaths, and then to the new boy who makes her feel...different. Something big is happening and no one knows what it is.

I LOVED this book! I couldn't put it down...literally it only took me a few hours to read it! One thing I love about Kelley Armstrong is her story telling ability. Some may argue that she is not a good writer...I disagree! She can write a story that engages you right from the start! Not only that, but her characters are well developed, and strong! I love Maya...she is a girl who isn't afraid to speak her mind...even if it means embarrassing those around her. Rafe comes off as a bad boy, but deep down he is vulnerable and loving...and there is just something about him that I really love! Daniel is Maya's best friend...and I think he has the hots for her. I like him...I just think he is too "perfect"...I want there to be something small wrong with him (I know I am crazy)!

Even though there is paranormal things in this book it is not overpowering! It is almost like it's not part of the story really. The bigger part of the story is the mystery's to be solved. After reading LOTS of paranormal books...it's actually quite a refreshing change!

There were only a few things that bugged me...one...her parents were never really "parental"! Who willingly lets their barely 16 year old daughter get a tatoo? Not really a big issue...just something that bugged me! I have a love/hate relationship with cliffhangers and this book has a doozy! I was frusterated when I turned the last page, and not one question had been answered! That is something she is really good at as well!

There was lots of foreshadowing and teasers in this book! As with the Darkest Powers series...you start off with so many questions, only to finish with 100 more! I think she does that to guarentee that we will keep reading the series...kidding...but not really!

I really loved this book! Like I said I read it in a few hours...and then have decided to re-read it! There is nothing better than getting caught up in a really good book...and this is one of those books!

I gave this book 5 apples!

Passion

I felt like when we last saw Luce and Daniel there was a lot of crazy stuff going on...well...it didn't end! When Luce steps into an announcer to figure out her past...little does she know what will happen! She has been falling in love with Daniel over and over and over again since the beginning of time...and with that came a curse...she wants to figure out how to break it and why exactly Daniel loves her. With each past self she encounters, another piece of the puzzle fits into place. Soon she knows she will discover what it is she needs...unless someone has a plan to wipe her from the face of the Earth...literally!

This book answered so many unanswered questions! I loved being able to go back and see Luce in some of her former lives...sometimes she was nice...sometimes not so much! I also got a new appreciation for Daniel and Cam. Believe it or not...Cam really is a good guy...and he wants the best for Daniel and Luce. It was nice to see thier relationship in different contexts as well. THere was also a really cool part...not going to spoil too much...where the angels were cast out...all I can say is WOW!

The ending will leave you breathless and wanting Rapture...the next and last book in the series...but of course not until next spring! From the cliffhanger we were left with I KNOW Rapture is going to knock our socks off!

I gave this book 4 apples!

Tiger's Quest

When we Kelsey left Ren she did it of her own free will...he let her go...he didn't come after her...would he have come after her? This installement of the Tiger series (at least that's what I am calling them) begins with Kelsey's return home to Oregan, something she is glad about and yet at the same time she feels this strange emptiness in her heart. She plugs along and even decides to start dating in hopes of getting over a certian white tiger. Then when she least expects it...Ren shows up. He's not too keen on the idea of her dating, but he sets out to win her love far and square. When everything feels just like it is all going to be okay...life takes a turn.

Kelsey finds herself on the second quest to free Ren from the Tiger's curse...unfortunatly Ren has been kidnapped and she has to face this quest with Kishan. Kishan who has made his feelings known for Kelsey...even though he knows she loves Ren. As they struggle to complete the second task, Kelsey and Kishan's relationshil changes in small ways...or at least the seem small. All Kelsey wants to do is free Ren and get back to where they were before...well...there is another glitch. Once Ren is freeed he has no idea who Kelsey is!

This second book was just as intriguing and intoxicating as the first book! I love getting to "trave" all over India, Tibet and parts of China! Colleen Houck does a great job discribing everything in great detail! Even though at the end of Tiger's Curse I really didn't like Kishan...he really grew on me! Now I feel like Kelsey...torn between two amazing men! The ending I NEVER saw coming! READ IT WITH A BIG BOX OF KLEENEX!!!! I BAWLED my eyes out! I can't wait to read Tiger's Voyage...which luckily comes out in Novemeber...with a cliffhanger like she left I wouldn't be able to wait any longer!

I gave this book 5 apples!

Last Sacrifice

WARNING--THERE ARE SPOILERS IN THIS REVIEW!!!!!

Rose has never been afraid to break the rules...well the law has finally caught up with her. Rose is in prison for the worst crime imaginable, but she didn't even do it! She'll need all the help she can get to prove her innocence...but time is quickly running out. An uncanny group of friends and family break Rose out of jail and send and Dimitri into hiding while they try to unravel who the real murderer is.

Rose hates sitting out of the action, luckily for her Tatiana left her a note claiming that Lissa has a sibling somewhere. This knowledge could change everything for Lissa. Rose, Dimitri and Sydney head out on a search for the missing Dragomir. Once again the only person who can help them is in "prison"--this time of their own making. Ms.Karp who willingly became Strigoi to rid herself of the side effects of Spirit holds the answers they need.

Meanwhile, Lissa, Christain, Adrain, and the rest of the gang at court are trying desperatly to find the murderer of Tatiana. Not only that, but thanks to a plan from Rose to buy more time, Lissa is now a canidate for the crown...something she is not sure she really wants.

And then there is Dimitri...sigh...can he ever forgive himself so ha can have another chance at a future with Rose? She thought she loved Adrian, but she knows there is no one for her except Dimitri.

Did I mention that you get alot more of Abe in this book too!? Between him and Janine...you can totally tell where Rose gets her attitude!

The ending of this book will leave you stunned and of course heart broken. My heart broke for Adrian. He knew that Rose always had a spot for Dimitri, but when he looked Rose in the face and said..."I.LOVED.YOU."...oh my HECK! Can you say...awwwww?!?!? Poor Adrian...poor, poor Adrian!

You will be breathless from the time you start this book, until you finish it! Just when you think you know who the murderer is...watch out! I LOVED how Lissa became the one to take care of Rose. Not only that, she proved to herself and everyone else that she is strong enough to be Queen. She really grew and matured in this book. Rose is one of the most amazing characters written! She learns from her mistakes, picks herself up and moves on. She is AMAZING!! And you can't forget Dimitri...but there are no words to describe him...just pure awesomeness!

I loved Twilight...I LOVE Morganville Vampires, but...hold your breath...HANDS DOWN, Vampire Academy is the BEST vampire series EVER!! Never thought you'd hear me say something like that now did ya!?

I am definatly going to be buying this series to add to my personal library. And yes...I will read them again...and again...and again...and again!

I gave this book 5 apples!

(I'd give it more...actually...I'd give it 10...but my scale doesn't go that high!)

Spirit Bound

WARNING: THERE WILL BE SPOILERS AHEAD!!!

When Rose left Russia she thought Dimitri was dead, and then to add insult to an already injured heart...there could have been a way to save him! There is only one problem...the person with the knowledge is locked away in prison. When Dimitri keeps sending her letters telling her it's just a matter of time before he finds her, Rose knows beyond a shadow of a doubt that he will...it's just a matter of when. Then in typical Rose fashion, she devises a plan, one that could get her and her friends locked up too.

If her plan works, she can be reunited with the man she loves. If not...she knows she will finally have to kill him. But nothing ever goes according to plan! Dimitri wants nothing to do with Rose. Guilt, despair and depression are his only companions, and being around Rose makes it worse. Heartbroken, Rose turns to Adrian as she promised. Even as her heart aches and longs to be with Dimitri, Rose knows that once he sets his mind to something it rarely changes.

Then the unthinkable happens...Queen Tatiana is murdered, and all evidence points to Rose. Rose always knew how she would die...in battle defending Lissa...not at an assigned day and time...but this time she might be wrong.

One thing I enjoy about these books are the emotions! I felt every single emotion that Rose did...all the agony, the joy, the heartbreak, the frustration! I have never before been so emotionally involved in a book series. The other thing I enjoy immensely...the characters! They are beyond well written! They have so much depth, passion and feelings to them. Richelle Mead is a true story teller!

I gave this book 5 apples!

Blood Promise

The recent Strigoi attack on St.Vladmir's has devastated the entire Moroi world. Many are dead, and for those who were carried away by the Strigoi, and even worse fate. But fo Rose only one victim matters...Dimitri. Rose must now choose between two very different paths. Honoring her vow to protect and defend Lissa, or hunting down the man she loves to carry out an unspoken promise. She'll have to go to the ends of the earth to carry out her plan, but when the time comes will she be able to carry it out?

Away from her friends can Rose find the strength to destroy Dimitri, or will she sacratice herself for love?

This book in the series was so incrediably gripping! Richelle did a wonderful job of taking to Russia in pursuit of Dimitri. I felt like I was there! I fell in love with Dimitri's family and I hope to see more of them in the future. Also what the heck is up with this Abe guy? I have a suspicion...but I'll keep that to myself for now! Sydney was also a great addition to the cast of characters, and I hope to see more of her as well!

When Rose sees Dimitri for the first time as Strigoi, she did exactly what I would have done...hesitate! I could literally feel her heart in her throat as she thought of killing him! Part of me wanted Dimitri to be a "different" kind of Strigoi...the kind who could love and remember who he had been...sadly...he was all Strigoi! There for awhile I wondered if Rose would make a crazy choice, but luckily she found herself and the strong, snarky, stubborn Rose was back!

SPOILER ALERT!! SPOILER ALERT!!

It seems as with each of these books so far there is one defining scene for me, and in this book it was the scene on the bridge. My heart broke again (I don't have much of a heart left to break at this point)! When Rose shoved the stake into Dimitri's heart and then watched him fall off the bridge...I wondered how in the world Rose and I were going to survive! Even as terrifying as he was, and knowing she had to do it...oh mylanta it was sad!

I am sooooo LOVING this series! You really must read it if you haven't yet! It is not your stereotypical vampire book...I promise!!

I gave this book 5 apples!!

Shadow Kiss

This series gets better and BETTER!

Rose is still reeling from the death of her friend Mason, and according to her it is all her fault! Strigoi attacks are becoming more frequent everyone is on edge! Tragedy and death are somethin that isn't in short supply and Rose will find herself tested in ways she never dreamed! She will battle forces of the dark, Strigoi and those darn feelings for Dimitri that just keep intensifying!

The ending of this book was heart wrenchingly unexpected...and yet it was amazing at the same time! Rose acted just like I thought she would! She didn't waste time crying and shutting herself off from the world...she got down to business! THe only thing I didn't like was how she left things with Lissa. I wondered why she couldn't/wouldn't tell her and get her support....I understand her anger...but it still didn't sit well with me!

Christian proved once again what a badass he is! I love watching his character develope! And Rose? She just keeps maturing and getting more and more awesome! I LOVE this series! Oh...did I mention the cabin scene? 1-ABOUT TIME and 2- HOT! HOT! HOT!!!

This book will have you laughing and bawling your eyes out...sometimes at the same moment! There is so much raw, unadlultered emotion--it will knock your socks off!!!

I gave this book 4 apples!

Frostbite

In the second installment of the Vampire Academy books, Rose once agains finds herself in a myraid of trials. Having decided to "get over" Dimitri is nothing compared to what she is about to face. When Dimitri invites her along on a guardian trip they stumbel upon a gruesome scene...a Strigoi attack, where there are no survivors. In that one moment Rose realizes that everything has just changed. No longer are Strigoi loner vampires, it appears that they are making communities, and not only that....they are working with humans. Now there is no time or place that can be safe. To hopefully keep students safe, they are whisked off for a fancy ski vacation in Idaho. This is the perfect time for Rose to get over Dimitri and focus on cute and so in to her Mason. Even if that means watching Dimitri get close to someone else too.

When another Strigoi attack happens all chaos breaks loose. Some Moroi cry for more guardians, while others think they should stand beside their guardians and fight. When no decision is reached, three students set out on thier own to take care of the problem. WIth the help of Christian, Rose sets off to find them and knock some sense into them. The last thing they expected was to be captured by humans and help prisoner by Strigoi...Rose's worst nightmare come true! Rose knows this is the end, but there is no way she is going done without a fight. Rose manages to get free, but not without casualties...big, heart breaking casaulties!

I fell more in love with Dimitri this book! I love how strong he is, and how he doesn't let anything get in his way. I do get frustrated with his whole cover up with his feelings for Rose...sometimes I just wanted to scream..."Just admitt you like each other already!" Christian was a stand out character in this book! He was amazing and I know we will see many more great things from him in future books!

Then there is Adrian. I'm not too sure what to think about this bad boy Royal who seems to have the hots for Rose. I am not sure that his feelings for her are true or not, or if he is working some angle. I would think that he would be after Lissa because they have so much more in common. I also think that there is something deeper to Adrian...I can't wiat to see what that is! Maybe Rose will actually find happiness with him and move on from Dimitri...not that I really want that to happen.

I sooooo LOVE this book series so far! Richelle Mead wrote a herione who not only has faults, but figures out how to deal with those faults. She is strong and beautiful and a total badass!

I gave this book 4 apples!!

A Touch Mortal

A Touch Mortal was nothing like was I expected...AT ALL! There have been many books with angels as the theme lately, but this book went to a whole new level! Taking the war in Heaven and to Earth...literally. There are the Fallen - angels who have fallen from grace, the Bound - those who are still on the Lord's side, and then there are Siders. Siders are mortals who have taken their own lives - -becoming immortal.

When Az falls in love with Eden, he has no idea that she has no life path - meaning she has chosen to take her life. His best friend Gabe knows though. It's against the rules for angels to fall in love with mortals, but that is not the only complication As and Eden face. Luke, one of the Fallen will do anything to make Az fall, including hurting the one Az loves. Gabe and Az hatch a plan to keep Eden safe...but things don't turn out as planned.

Eden's afterlife is anything but peaceful! She finds herself in constant conflict over her feelings for Az...does she love him or hate him? She also finds herself with a power that no one knew existed. Eden can "free" siders - -they shouldn't be able to die--but Eden can kill them. Not only that, but Eden finds herself in a battle between the Bound and the Fallen...which group is telling the truth, and who can she trust?

This book started out a little slow for me, but once it picked up I could hardly put it down! The story is intriguing, and so different from other angel books out there. I really didn't appreciate the constant use of the "F" word...I'm sorry but I find it hard to believe that an angel would say that as much as they did in this book! There are other adjectives out there that would work just as nicely! Other than that and the slow start I really enjoyed this book. It left a HUGE cliffhanger which is going to make waiting for the next book very hard...but hopefully worth it!

I gave this book 4 apples!

The Truth About Forever

The Truth About Forever is a book that will just make you feel good! There is nothing but pure, raw emotion in this book. Sarah Dessen does a phenomanal job of entertwining overcoming grief, learing to live again, and taking chances that you need to change. One of my favorite lines from the book was "Whatever happens, it was meant to be."

A long, hot, boring summer is what Macy has to look forward to while her boyfriend Jason is away at Brain Camp. Her days will be sent working at the library, her nights studying for the SAT's, and her free time with her mom sharing a silent grief over the unexpected death of her father.

Sometimes unexpected things happen - like when she gets a catering job at Wish - her sister's project remodeling the beach house that awakens long buried memories - and meeting Wes.

My heart ached for Macy! I saw so many things of myself in her...it was slightly unnerving! Such a beautiful girl who thinks being safe and boring equals "perfection"...and that's all she wants, is to be perfect...until she meets the crazy gang at Wish. Soon you see the girl she is meant to be...bright, beautiful, sunny and most of all happy. As you watch Macy change your heart will stop aching and you'll start cheering her on, praying for her happiness!

You won't be able to help but fall in love with Wes! A boy with a past, an amazing artist and cute to boot! Wes is the boy every girl wants to fall in love with! The way he treats Macy...sigh...

You will laugh...you will cry...you will scream...but most of all, if you're like me you will always remember that somethings are just meant to be the way they are!

I gave this book 4 apples!