The Book Worm

Scorpio Races

2012-02-24T19:00:00.003-08:00

Some race to win.

Others race to survive.

It happens the start of every November: the Scorpio Races. Riders attempt to keep hold of thier water horses long enough to make it to the finish line.

Some riders live.

Others die.

At age nineteen, Sean Kenderick is the returning champion. He is a young man of few words, and if he has any fears, he keeps them buried deep, where no one else can see them.

Puck Connelly is different. She never meant to ride in the Scorpio Races. But fate hasn't given her much of a choice. So she enters the competition - the first girl to ever do so. She is in no way prepared for what is going to happen.

As I was starting this book I thought it was slow and akward, but I had so many friends who really liked it I didn't want to stop. Plus I really love Stiefvaters Shiver series...so I knew there was a good chance it would get better...boy was I right!

The characters in this book are amazing! Puck it the kind of girl I would love to be! Unafraid to stand up for what she believes in and so very brave! I can't imagine standing up for myself in the many ways that Puck did in this book. Not only that but she never gives up! When everyone told her to quit the race and what not...she stood her ground!

Sean is also an amazing character...who is hard to figure out! You know he has one love...Corr his water horse...but at first that is about all you can tell about him. I loved watching him change and finally give voice to his feelings for Puck! He was one of those "good guy" characters that even when/if he did something wrong, you wouldn't mind.

The romance in this story is slow and sweet, and it honestly made me physically ache! I waited and waited for that sweet kiss...and dang it took a long time, but it was so worth it! The relationship between Puck and Sean is so tender and based more on feelings of the heart than on looks. Puck's relationship with her brothers was another relationship I really enjoyed. There was lots of sibling rivalry, but lots of love as well!

I was really surprised by this book. I wasn't sure what to expect, but with the lore of kelpies, and other water horse type things I was enamored! This is a most definite must read!

I gave this book 4 apples!

Life Eternal

2012-02-22T13:49:00.003-08:00

Renee Winters has changed. When she looks in the mirror, a beautiful girl woht an older, sadder face stares back. Her condition has doctors mystified, but Renee can never reveal the truth: she died last May and was brought back to life by the kiss of her undead soul mate, Dante Berlin.

Now her seperation from Dante becomes almost unbearable. His second life is close to an end, and each passing day means one fewer that she will spend with the boy who shares her soul.

Just when Renee has almost given up hope, she learns of the Nine Sisters - brillant scholars who, according to legend, found a way to cheat death. She can't shake the feeling that they are somehow connected to her dreams, strange visions that hint at a discovery so powerful, and so dangerous, that some will stop at nothing to protect it.

Renee thought she knew the truth about life and death. But there is a secret woven through history that holds the only hope for Dante and Renee. Unless they find answers soon, their time together is doomed to be cut short.

This book was good...I liked it...I didn't love it and here is why: I missed Dante! He was only in the book here and there! I thought it was great that he left Renee little messages in Latin where only she would think to look...but I missed him! Renee kind of got on my nerves! I get to the point where I can't stand whiny, no one likes me, I want my boyfriend characters so long. I know she was going through a rough time and Dante had to be in hiding...but still! And when your soul mate tells you to trust him...TRUST HIM!! How hard is that?!? GAH!! I admit that I loved her "visions"...I was so wrong about what and who they were about...it was an interesting twist to the story.

I loved the introduction of Noah to the story...every girl needs a Noah in her life. I just hope that what I think happened at the end...didn't! I also have to say I missed Gottfried Academy...it just wasn't the same at St.CLements. The story was good, but it seemed to drag on a little, with the exception of the end. Can you say KILLER CLIFFHANGER?!?! I don't know how we are supposed to wait to find out what happens...but guess we will!

I gave this book 3 apples!

Every Other Day

2012-02-18T17:57:00.001-08:00

Every second day Kali D'Angelo is a normal sixteen year old girl. She goes to high school. She attends pep rallies (reluctantly). She's human.

And every other day...she's not.

Though she is not sure what she is on those days, Kali knows what she does - she hunts, traps, and kills demons, hellhounds, and other supernatural creatures that threaten her world. On those days, she is practically indestructible.

But when Kali notices a mark on a popular girl at school, she knows instantly that the girl is marked for death by one of those unwordly beings. And she knows she has only twenty-four hours to save her.

There is only one problem - it's the wrong twenty-four hours.

I loved Barnes' Raised by Wolves books, didn't really care for her Tatoo series, but none the less I was excited to read this book. Sadly I was not that impressed with this book. The story is good, the characters are great, but it just felt like there was something missing. I kind of felt like it was a cross between the Host, Sweet Venom, and a little of the MI series.

Kali is an extremely likable character, and she shows a lot of promise, but again something just felt off. There was a part of the book too that I didn't really see as necessary at all...in fact...it broke my heart!

I do want to see what happens next to Kali and Zev and the rest of the kids...and monsters...but I may not be in a huge hurry to read it!

I gave this book 3 apples!

Wings of the Wicked

2012-02-18T17:37:00.001-08:00

Life as the Preliator is harder than Ellie ever imagined. Balancing real life with the responsibility of being Heaven's warrior is a challenge for Ellie. Her relationship with Will has become all business, though they both long for each other. And now that the secret of who she really is has come out, so have Hell's strongest reapers. Grown bold and more vicious, the demonic threaten her in the light of day and stalk her in the night.

Cadan, a demonic reaper, comes to warn her with information about Bastian's new plan to destroy Ellie's soul and use an ancient relic to wake all the souls of the damned and unleash them upon humanity. As she fights to stay ahead of Bastian's schemes, the revelations about those closest to her awaken a dark power within Ellie that threatens to destroy everything - including herself.

Treachery comes from those whom she loves, and Ellie is broken by the deaths of those who stood beside her in this Heavenly war. Still, she must find a way to save the world, herself and her love for Will. If she fails there will be Hell to pay.

I loved this second book even more than I loved Angelfire! It is so hard to describe how much you love a book sometimes, especially when you don't want to spoil it for others! Ellie and Will are being bombarded by evil reapers, and Ellie has had just about enough! They are coming faster, they are more strong, and for some reason they want her alive. As Will and Ellie fight back to back against the dark reapers, Will fights against his feelings for her leaving Ellie feeling down. Is it too much to ask to be human? Is it too much to ask to have a normal life again? That is all Ellie wants and yet she knows that she must save the world. Only when she is kidnapped and secrets are revealed does Ellie begin to realize the magnitude of this Heavenly war. The fate of the world is in Ellies hands...and if she fails? Let's just not go there!

I gave this book 5 apples!!

Hallowed

2012-02-18T17:20:00.001-08:00

For months Clara Gardner trained to face the fire from her visions, but she wasn't prepared for the choice she had to make that day. And in the aftermath, she discovered that nothing about being part angel is straightforward as she thought.

Now, torn between her love for Tucker and her complicated feelings about the roles she and Christian seem destined to play in a world that is both dangerous and beautiful, Clara struggles with a shocking revelation: Someone she loves will die in a matter of months. With her future uncertian, the only thing Clara knows for sure is that the fire was just the beginning.

At the end of Unearthly, Clara decides to save Tucker instead of Christian, leaving her purpose unfulfilled. Now despite the fact that they are both alive and safe, Clara can't help feeling guilty, confused and lost. On top of that, she keeps having visions...of someones funeral.

There were a lot of directions that Hand could have go with Hallowed, but I never would have guessed it would have been like this! So many surprises! SO I thought Clara having not fulfilled her purpose would have made it null and void, well I don't think she is finished with her purpose yet. Clara's ever tight lipped mom finally opens up and reveals A LOT of shocking truths and some interesting angel lore.

Jeffery is mean and spiteful, but there is a surprise motivation behind it. Christian is content to just be Clara's friend, even though he is drawn to her. And even though Clara loves Tucker, she can't help but think that she and Christian are destined to be together.

I am a HUGE Tucker fan, but I have to say that Christian kind of grew on me (just a little bit). It's easy to see why Clara and Christian get along so good together...they get each other...and they are both angels. I wouldn't want to be in Clara's shoes but I have to say if I was...I would totally pick Tucker :D!

This is a book you need to read with tissues! There is so much raw emotion packed into it's 403 pages! The ending left me so sad, and yet yearning for more! I know there were many out there who didn't like this book what so ever...I however throughly enjoyed this book!

I gave this book 3.5 apples!

Immortal Beloved and Darkness Falls

2012-02-18T16:37:00.000-08:00

It feels goog to be back! And I am excited to review these two books for you guys! I have to apologize that I read Immortal Beloved last fall I think so my memories of it may not be too good!

Cate Tiernan takes us to a world where there are some who have lived for hundreds of years, done horrible things, and are now trying to be someone more, different, better. In Immortal Beloved we meet Nasty...aka Nastasya, who has been alive for over 400 years. After a dark incident involving her best friend Incy and an innocent taxi driver, Nasty flees London. Never would she have expected to find herself at River's Edge, a rehab if you will for wayward Immortals. At first Nasty does everything in her power to be obnoxious, but soon finds that she is learning things she never knew about being an immortal. THen there is Reyn, brooding, handsome, stand offish Reyn. Little does Nasty know that she and Reyn share a dark past, something that could indefinitly destroy what little friendship the have, and make Nasty question her very existance.

I gave Immortal Beloved 4 apples!

Now onto Darkness Falls:

After 450 years of living, Nastasya Crowe should have more of a handle on the whole immortal thing. Last fall, she sought refuge at River's Edge, where she and other immortals hoped to make peace with their torturous pasts. Instead, she found she wasn't really safe anywhere, even with the gorgeous, golden Reyn - who will be either the death of her or her very last hope for love.

Now it's winter, and Nastasya is at a breaking point. She can't do anything right, everything is pointless, and why is she even trying? Her family's heritage of darkness is inescapable! Reyn's mind blowing kisses only add to the pressure.

But when Nastasya recklessly changes course, she finds herself in a much darker, more dangerous, and soul-destroying situation than she ever could have imagined. Desire, death, and heartbreaking truths are revealed in book two of Cate Tiernan's captivating Immortal Beloved trilogy.

It seems lately that more and more second books in trilogy's aren't living up to their expectations...well this book proved that there can be a great second book! I LOVED this book just as much as I loved the first book! I was scared to see where Nasty would be after the revelations that happened at the end of Immortal Beloved, but I was glad to see that she was still at River's Edge trudging along. Nasty learns so much about herself in this book! Not only does she learn more about her family's dark past, but we learned about some of things that led Nasty to where she is today. I love that Cate writes Nasty just like we were talking to her! I love how all the characters feel so real! I was so impressed that I felt all of Nasty's regrets, frustration and fears, her longings and self loathing. This series is so captivating! I can't wait to see what happens in the final installment! Oh ya...there was plenty of viking golden boy Reyn in this book too...so YAY!

I gave this book 4 apples!

Coming Back

2012-02-08T21:00:00.000-08:00

SO I am hoping to get back to blogging about the books I love to read so hang with me! Some of the reviews I post my be from some books I read a while ago...so please forgive me if my review isn't great...remember I am a work in progress! WAtch for some new reviews SOON!!

Taking a break...

2011-09-30T19:23:00.000-07:00

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

2011-09-16T20:59:00.001-07:00

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

2011-09-09T15:08:00.001-07:00

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

2011-09-09T14:37:00.001-07:00

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

2011-09-01T15:45:00.000-07:00

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

2011-08-30T21:00:00.001-07:00

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

2011-08-30T20:46:00.001-07:00

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

2011-08-26T12:46:00.001-07:00

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

2011-08-25T14:23:00.000-07:00

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

2011-08-23T19:19:00.000-07:00

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

2011-08-21T11:49:00.001-07:00

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

2011-08-20T11:54:00.001-07:00

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

2011-08-17T20:11:00.000-07:00

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

2011-08-17T15:46:00.001-07:00

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

2011-08-16T19:21:00.001-07:00

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

2011-08-15T19:30:00.001-07:00

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

2011-08-13T21:51:00.001-07:00

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

2011-08-11T20:41:00.000-07:00

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

2011-07-20T14:02:00.001-07:00

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

2011-07-20T13:54:00.001-07:00

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

2011-07-08T19:55:00.000-07:00

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

2011-07-08T19:45:00.001-07:00

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

2011-07-08T19:37:00.000-07:00

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!

2011-07-08T19:29:00.001-07:00

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

2011-06-26T19:53:00.001-07:00

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

2011-06-25T13:06:00.001-07:00

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

2011-06-25T12:51:00.000-07:00

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

2011-06-20T10:31:00.001-07:00

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

2011-06-18T20:44:00.001-07:00

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

2011-06-18T20:30:00.001-07:00

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

2011-06-16T20:39:00.001-07:00

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

2011-06-16T16:25:00.001-07:00

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

2011-06-10T20:37:00.001-07:00

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

2011-06-08T16:16:00.001-07:00

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!

Vampire Academy

2011-06-07T11:06:00.000-07:00

I remember buying this book, reading the first chapter and deciding for some reason I didn't like it (maybe it was too soon after Twilight or something), so I gave it away. For a few weeks I have been hearing my friends on The Bookshelf Facebook page talking about how great this series is...so I figured I should give it another try....sooo glad I did!

There are so many vampire books out there, that trying to find something that is new and out of the ordinary (and not a Twilight knock off) can be hard to find. Now you all know that I LOVE the Morganville Vampire series...well....I think this one will come in as a close contender! I sooo fell in love with this book!

The characters in this book are amazing! Rose is a kick a** dhampir...someone born to be a "guardian" of a Moroi...a vampire by birth...not to be confused with the Strigoi...those who were turned, either a Moroi, a human or a dhampir. She is so sarcastic, fun loving, brutally honest, and a lot reckless. Lissa is a Moroi...a Princess no less. She is quiet and unsure and slowly feeling herself go crazy! She and Rose share a bond that no other Moroi and dhampir share...a bond that enables Rose to feel Lissa's emotions and sometimes slip into her head and see what she is doing.

Of course you can't have a vampire novel without hot vampire guys! Well in Vampire Academy Guardian Dimitri is hotter than any vampire...hands down! Chosen to help protect Lissa and to be Rose's trainer/mentor, he never signed on to have feelings for one of them. Then there is Christian whose parent's chose to be Strigoi...the worst thing a Moroi can ever do. He is an outcast and loner, but one of the girls might just change that, and he might change her too.

As in life there is no shortage at the Academy of revenge, hook-ups, lies, fights and power plays. As Lissa and Rose manuever through this they must also keep their secrets, keep each other safe and find out exactly what is going on! With this dream team nothing is impossible!

There were so many twists and turns in this book that when the end finally came I had NO IDEA! It was a nice change from some of the more predictable books I have read lately! I can't wait to see what other things are waiting in store for Lissa, Rose, Dimitri, and Christian...I can almost guarentee that it will not be smooth sailing!

I gave this book 4 apples!!

Kissed by an Angel

2011-06-06T19:30:00.000-07:00

I don't know why photobucket won't let me get this book cover pictures on here...if anyone knows and can help me...let me know!

Anyway...this book was actually 3 books in one...which was nice. It was Kissed by an Angel, The Power of Love, and Soulmates. To me the titles of the books are extremely misleading in a way...but they are very good at forshadowing! In Kissed by an Angel we meet Ivy who has just transferred schools because her mom is marrying a man she has had an affiar with for years. She is very quiet and VERY into Angels. Tristian fell in love with Ivy the first time he saw her and has tried everything he can think of to make her notice him...all to no avail. But when Ivy has to overcome her fear of water a relationship blooms between the two. Unfortunatly, their romance is short lived, when a car accident takes Tristians life. Seriously that is where the first book ends...good thing I didn't have to wait for the next one :)!

I the Power of Love we see Ivy struggling to accept Tristains death and the newfound feelings she suddenly has for her stepbrother Gregory. Tristian finds himself back on earth only as an angel with a missions to fulfill before he can move on. With the help of his fellow angel Lacey, he tries to warn Ivy of the empending danger she faces. He also tries to hold onto her...while she tries to hold onto him as well. Her friends are starting to think she is crazy, and one by one it seems like everyone she loves is leaving her. Who can she trust? Suddenly Will Gregory's friend is trying to help protect Ivy...but should she trust him or not?

In Soulmates...we finally know who is after Ivy...and she has turned to Will for help and support...until one note destroys all that in a heartbeat. Will she be able to save not only herself but those she loves from what seems like an inevitable ending? If she makes it will she ever find love again, or will she always want what she can't have...Tristian?

I really liked this book. I thought it was a bit predictable, but then she would throw something at me and I would wonder...Ivy was a great character who tried so hard to keep her head up no matter what she faced. Will is the silent unsung hero and you can't help but pull for them to be together, even though you heart aches for Ivy and Tristian at the same time. There was lots of suspense and mystery...a little romance...but not much. I have to hand it Elizabeth Chandler though...this was one of the cleanest books I have read in a LONG time! There was no swearing at all and no sex what so ever...so nice and refreshing in a YA book!

I gave this book 3 apples!

Wither

2011-05-25T20:49:00.000-07:00

Don't know what's up with photobucket, but it won't let me post a picture of this book jacket...I will try again later :)!

You would think that all the stories about dystopian America had already been written...and then along comes a new one that knocks your socks off! Lauren deStefano creates a world that is both terrifying and intriguing at the same time! Imagine that you knew when and how you would die. Imagine that you knew how terrible it would be...how painful...how slow...but there is a chance there could be an antidote. Imagine a world where girls are kidnapped to be brides, and if they aren't picked...they're murdered. Welcome to Rhine's world. In Rhine's world girls only live to be 20 and boys only live to be 25. It isn't unheard of girls being kidnapped and married off to produce off spring...but when you only live until your 20...13 is the prime of your life.

When Rhine is kidnapped and married with two other young girls to Linden Ashby all she can think about is escape. She hopes her twin Rowan is looking for her...but she doesn't even know where she is! You would think that going from scrapping by to living in the lap of luxery would be awesome...not when you become friends with your dying sister wife...or when your father in law is beyond creepy...or when your 13 year old sister wife becomes pregnant...you can't figure out how to escape and when you do...you nearly die. The only thing that makes anything worthwhile is Gabriel, and then suddenly he goes missing too. Rhine plays nice to become first wife when Rose dies...but is she really just acting or does she feel something for Linden that she doesn't want too?

I am a person that fights for the uderdog! Part of me wants Rhine to open her eyes and realize how much Linden loves and respects her...and that her feelings for him are genuine as well. I like Gabriel, I just don't think there is much of a future there with him. Rhine stumbles upon many secrets that make her stomach churn and her heart ache...they will do likewise to you! As a mom, it was hard to read about young girls married at such young ages and all they had been through...and yet there are parts of the world that are this way now!

The charcters in this book are strongly written. There is nothing I like better than a strong herione and Rhine is just that, and more. The worlf deStefano created comes to life in a stunning way...you will feel the oppulance, the despair, the heartache, and the triumph as if you were there! I am very anxious to read the next book! I know it will be just as amazing as Wither!

I gave this book 3 apples!!

The Vespertine

2011-05-23T20:35:00.001-07:00

This book is so addicting! I read it in a day! With that being said...I finished this book a little confused! It starts out in one place and then you find yourself in another...and unless you carefully read the headings in between...you will be lost too!

Amelia is sent by her brother and sister in law to Baltimore to find a husband and to be properly formed. Instantly she forms a strong friendship with Zora and her other "cousins". At the same time something weird happens...Amelia has a vision at sunset...even more weird...it comes true! At the same time she meets the mysterious Nathaniel who seems to appear when ever she wants him. She is drawn to him and can't figure out why. Suddenly, AMelia finds herself thrust into society where people want her to see a vision for her, which isn't a bad thing until they start coming true...and there is lots of death involved.

This is where I got confused! The ending was a little murky! At first Amelia is blamed for the all the bad things happening...and then it's Nathaniel...They say that he has posessed her...not sure about that! There is something about Nathaniel that seems a little off...but that's all you get! There are so many questions left at the end...but I guess that's why there are sequels right? I really did like this book, and I am interested to see what happens in the sequel!

I gave this book 3 apples

Nightshade

2011-05-23T20:17:00.001-07:00

It seems as if werewolves are the new vampires when it come to books...not that I am complaining! Nightshade by Andrea Cremer is about Calla who is an Alpha wolf in the Nightshade Pack, is suddenly thrown into a world she only thought she knew!

When Calla saves a young man from a bear attack...which is against the rules...little does she know what kind of reprecussions await her! In just a few short weeks she and Ren (the Alpha from the Bane pack) will be united and start their own pack. There is definatly something there between her and Ren...every time his near she about melts, but she can't stop thinking about the boy she saved. She knows how and where her life will lead her, and she accepts that...until Shay walks into her homeroom.

Little did she know that Shay was the one she saved, not only that his uncle is one of the most powerful Keepers...ever. Suddenly Calla finds herself taking risks and making choices that she knows she shouldn't. Along the way she also finds herself falling in love with Shay. When she and Shay uncover terrible truths about the packs, the keepers, and the searchers, can Calla willingly go into the union with Ren, or will she follow her heart and follow Shay?

I have to say I really liked this book...and yet I didn't! I think I got tired of Calla wanting Shay when she was with him, and then wanting Ren the same way. I know that there are always love triangles...but this one really bugged me for some reason! I liked Calla! I think she was very strong, but she lost some of that strength that as an alpha she posessed when she followed Shay all the time! She let him lead her into so many things, that truthfully I don't think she would have! Shay was okay...I found him whiney and needy...not something I like in a strong male character. Ren on the other hand...sigh...he is what I love in strong male characters! I wanted to slap Calla so many times at her blindeness! Ren loves her so much and yet...she is totally oblivious to it...AUGH!!! WAKE UP CALLA!!!

The ending was a bit predictable...that being said I can't wait to read the next one! I am anxious to find out what happens to the rest of the packs, and of course Calla, Shay and Ren!

I gave this book 3 apples!

Chime

2011-05-16T20:55:00.001-07:00

I would be lying if I said I didn't have a hard time with this book...at first! I wanted to love it right away because so many people have...and yet I found myself not really wanting to read it after about 50 pages...however I am not a quitter...boy am I glad I didn't quit! This was a really good book. Franny Billingsley had a very interesting concept for this story!

Briony is a young woman who thinks she cannot be loved because of all things...she is a witch! In the Swampsea, witches get hanged, so Briony keeps it a secret, but then Eldric moves not only to town, but into her home, and she finds herself feeling things any good witch shouldn't! Briony knows that all the bad things that have happened to her family are her fault...even Eldric doesn't.

The hardest part of this book for me was the language of some of the characters. I had hard time trying to deciphor what they were saying. Not only that, but I had a hard time with Briony's self loathing...it got old after awhile! I know that it was needed for the story, but I didn't have to like it! The ending of the book was far from predictable, which was thoroughly enjoyable for me! I really liked Briony and Eldric's relationship. He refused to back down even though Briony tried not to feel anything, and yet he was always there with something. I loved how Eldric believed in her and loved her...and wasn't afraid to show real emotion...he is a real man among men!

This was a good read. I thought the story was very interesting barring a few language barriers on my part!

I give this book 3 apples!

Entwined

2011-05-11T20:39:00.000-07:00

I think this is one of my favorite reads so far this year! This book was so like nothing I thought it would be and yet it was more! Heather Dixon knows how to write a captivating story that is for sure!

Set in the time of grand palaces, Kings, and Queens, magic and betrayal, blood oaths and vengenace, this story will captivate you from the get go! Imagine a King with 11 daughters and one more child on the way...a wife is gravely ill...and a palace that was formaly magicked...and then imagine yourself as the eldest daughter Azalea. When Azalea suddenly finds herself promising to take care of her sisters, she doesn't know why, until the next morning. With the passing of her mother Azalea finds herself hating the King (you will too), and wondering how she and her 12 sisters will last an entire year in mourning without dancing. While talking to the dashing Mr.Bradford she discovers that there are secret magic passages throughout the castle...and one just happens to be in the girl's bedroom. No one complains when they find a magical forest where they can dance undected, and Keeper seems okay...at first.

When Azalea notices that Keeper is living up to his name by "keeping" things of theirs, she loses trust in him. Then she discovers who he really is and what he really wants...and that just might destroy her family. Azalea knows there is a magic that is so powerful it can't be named, but she wonders if she can find it in time to save herself and those she loves.

As much as you will dislike the King at first, you will grow to love him and all he stands for. Each of the girls will inpsire and amaze you in their own special way...and it is quaint how they are named alphabetically and all have flower names :)! The gentlemen in this book will capture your heart by annoying you, sadly enough, creeping you out, and being disheveled but genteel. There is nothing they wouldn't do for their "ladies", including saving their lives (sometimes on numerous occasions).

The romances in this book are sweet, and barely there, but strong and hopeful, the mystery is intriging, and the feelings are genuine. Not only are the characters well defined, but so is the story! Heather Dixon knocked it out of the ball park for me! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from her! It is a MUST READ!!!

I gave this book 4.5 apples!

Plague

2011-05-09T15:21:00.000-07:00

First let me say that these books ARE NOT FOR THE FAINT OF HEART! They can be a bit disturbing...okay now that that is out of the way...In this installment of Michael Grants Gone series the kids in the FAYZ are still battling to survive. How can you not be happy to be alive in the FAYZ for one more day? Well, maybe. A plague that resembles the flu is on the rampage! Kids who get it literally cough themselves to death, and if not having the entire town on quarentine for the flu, they are battling bugs as big as horses...and they don't run away when you try to kill them...they fight back. And they fight with a vengenace...killing whoever or whatever gets in the way.

Sam and Astrid are over. Sam has left town with a few of his friends to find water, and not only do they find water, but they find food, computers, missiles and much more! With Sam away what will happen in the FAYZ? Astrid battles with the knowledge of Little Petey's power...to kill him or not to kill him that is her question. Will Diana and Caine stay hidden away on the island forever, or will Caine finally decide that he's ready to head back? Diana may be harboring a secret...someone with a power level of a two...but what will happen when Caine finds out...or will he find out?

I really don't know how these kids can keep wanting to survive day after day, but survive they do! With all the things that get thrown at them you'd think they would want to POOF out, but they stay and try their hardest to survive. Grant creates a world where I wouldn't want to be...and yet...there is something so deeply disturbing and intriguing about it you can't help but be curious! Sam, Astrid, Albert, Orc, Howard, Diana, Caine, and the rest of the kids in the FAYZ are beyond strong, I am more in awe of them with each book!

Like I said this book has parts that can be deeply disturbing...I would recommend this book NOT be read by children under the age of 16. There are so many questions to be answered that I can't hardly stand to wait for the next one to be released...but wait I am going to have to do!

I gave this book 4 apples!

Desires of the Dead

2011-05-09T15:09:00.001-07:00

I have to admit that when I picked up the first book of the Body Finders I wasn't sure what to expect, however after reading three, I can say officially that I am hooked! The concept can be a bit creepy...a young girl who can find dead bodies...but the way Violet uses her uncanny ability is amazing! I LOVE reading about Violet!

In this book Violet may have just tipped off the FBI to her uncanny ability, and that may or may not be a good thing. She thought that by making an annonymous phone call she would be okay...buy was she wrong! Now she has Sara Priest wanting to talk to her, and things between her and Jay have gotten weird. She still loves him, but with so many secrets she is keeping, she finds him spending more and more time with his new friend Mike. That wouldn't be so bad, but Violet thinks that Mike's sister Megan could be stalking her, and she doesn't know why! All during this Violet keeps wondering why her ability has to be a secret, and besides Jay and her family who would she trust enough to tell.

As always her ability leads her into trouble, but lucky for her someone with their own ability may just save her and her friends lives!

I really like these books! There is always an interesting story and you can't help but feel bad and yet stand in awe of Violet! There were times when I wanted to slap her hard, but come on...as a woman...haven't we all just wallowed in self pity? Derting's characters are strong and yet there is something so vulnerable about them. The world that she has created within our own world is amazing!

I gave this book 4 apples!

Darkness Becomes Her

2011-05-05T20:55:00.001-07:00

Ari can't help feeling lost and alone.With teal eyes and freakish silver hair that can't be changed or destroyed, Ari has always stood out. And after growing up in foster care, she longs for some understanding of where she came from, and who she is.

Her search for answers uncovers just one message from her long dead mother: RUN. Ari can sense that someone, or something is getting too close. But it's impossible for her to protect herself when she doesn't know what she is running from or why she is being pursued.

She knows only one thing: She must return to her birthplace of New 2, the lush rebuilt city of New Orleans. Upon arriving she discovers that New 2 is very...different. Here, Ari is seemingly normal. But every creature she encounters, no matter how deadly or horrifying, is afraid of her.

Ari won't stop until she knows why. But some truths are too haunting, to terrifying to ever be revealed.

For anyone who likes Greek mythology this will be a book you will love! Kelly Keaton takes the goddess Athena and Medusa and turns them on their ears. I was enraptured from the get go. You can't help but want to know what Ari is with her silver hair, and strange colored eyes. Every time I thought I had it figured out...yep...I was wrong! Ari is a strong herione who can take care of herself and yet, all she wants is to be loved. But when she finds herself giving her heart to Bastian, will she only find herself heartbroken and alone? Can she trust the Nevom? They say they will offer her sanctuary, but will they turn their backs on her and use the monster within her for their own gain? Poor Ari only knows that she has finally found herself in a place where she feels like she belongs, but when someone she loves is taken without a trace Ari vows only one thing. Vengence.

This is a thrilling read and will have you turning pages faster than you want, just to find out what happens next! You will love Ari, Bastian, and the strange little girl Violet who captures Ari's heart at first sight. I know the next book will have just as many twists and turns in it and I can't wait to read it!

I gave this book 3 stars!

Clarity by Kim Harrington

2011-05-04T22:10:00.001-07:00

Clarity "Clare" Fern sees things. Things no one else can see. Things like stolen kisses and long buried secrets. All she has to do is touch a certian object, and the visions come to her. It's a gift.

And a curse.

When a teenage girl is found murdered, Clare's ex-boyfriend wants her to help solve the case - but Clare is still furious at the cheating jerk. Then Clare's brother, who has supernatural gifts of his own, becomes the prime suspect, and Clare can no longer look away. Teaming up with Gabriel, the smoldering son of the new detective, Clare must venture into the depths of fear, revenge, and lust in order to track the killer. But will her sight fail her just when she needs it most?

I LOVED this book! It was one of those reads for me that had everything! Clare is a sarcastic, sensitive, strong herione who you can't help but fall in love with! Then there is Gabriel, the mysterious new guy, who you know you shouldn't want her to be with...and yet...you soooo do! You can't forget Perry, Clare's brother who you can't help but love, and then there is Justin. The ex...but would he be if Clare's sight hadn't gotten in the way? Harrington's characters are well developed, full of spunk, and it doesn't hurt that the guys are shamefully good looking! The question is who will Clare choose? Gabriel who when she kisses it feels like an exotic vacation? Or Justin, the ex, who when she kisses, it feels like coming home?

Not only were the characters well written the story had me in it's grip from the get go! There was lots of suspense, action, and of course some romance. I read this book in just a few hours and yet I am hungering for more! I can't wait to see what happens with Madam Maslov's predictions...who Clare will choose...and what next advdenture they will be on. This was a refreshing twist into the paranormal books that are out there. Anyone who likes paranormal books...and even those who may not will love this book!

I give this book 4 stars!

Afterlife by Claudia Gray

2011-05-04T16:02:00.001-07:00

Bianca and Lucas have always believed they could endure anything to be together. When a twist of fate not only transforms Bianca into a wraith but also turns Lucas into a vampire-the very creature he spent his life hunting-theu are left reeling.

Haunted by his powerful need to kill, Lucas can turn to only one place for help...Evernight Academy. Bianca is determined to remain with him. But with vampire leader of Everynight waging a war against wraiths, he former home has become the most dangerous place she could be, despite the new powers her ghostly transformation has given her.

A battle between wraiths and vampires looms, and Bianca and Lucas face a terrifying new reality. They've overcome every obstacle life has thrown at them, but is their love string enough to survive the challenges of after life?

I believe that this is the concluding book to the Evernight series, but I'm not really sure. I would love to review all the books for you...but I read the rest of them so long ago that I can't really recall much about them except that I did like them.

In this book we find ourselves back at Evernight Academy after Lucas becomes a vampire and needs someplace safe to figure out just what that means. At the end of Hourglass I was left reeling, so it was nice to start right where it left off. I have to say I found some of this book redundant. It seemed like Bianca kept thinking the same thoughts page after page for awhile, and then all of a sudden it was like she finally got whatever it was she wasn't getting. I had a hard time wrapping my head around the fact that her friends and boyfriend would have no problems hanging out with a ghost who could sometimes be a solid form. Sorry...just a little far fetched for me. I did love that we got to see more of Patrice, Balthazar, Ranulf and Vic! Then ending was surprising and then I also felt let down! ****SPOILER ALERT!!!!**** I felt like the fact that Bianca and Lucas were part of each other should have healed them both...not just Lucas! I really had a hard time believing that she really was fine with the fact that he was once again human and she was still a wraith...sorry...wouldn't you want to be human too? Just a bit too unbelievable for me! It was a good read though and I guess she wrapped it up nicely for us.

I gave this book 3 Stars!

Secrets and Shadows

2011-04-30T16:06:00.001-07:00

Nothing's simplw when you run with werewolves. Jessie Gilmansen thinks she's seen it all, but her eyes are about to be opened to even more danger and a reality far more paranormal than she's ever suspected. Thanks to Jessie's startling revelation about the Rusakovas' mother, the groups choices become harder - and trust is more imortant than ever. But the dramatic change Pietr's going through may shake the trust he's built with Jessie to it's very foundation. As the broken Rusakova family struggles to come together to face what may be their greatest challenge, the people Jessie believed were normal show themselves to be much, much more...

The next installment of 13 to Life was just as breathtaking and amazing as the first one. The story for this is just incredible and the way Delany puts a spin on the werewolf myth is just so amazingly good! I felt for Jessie in this book, because like all paranormal boyfriends, Pietr decides it's best if he and Jessie not only have a relationship, but not even a friendship either! I love that instead of just wallowing in her grief and pain, Jessie sticks it to him bu going out with someone he despises...Derek. Unfortunatly for Jessie, that just may not turn out the best! I had to suck in my breath when Pietr finally admits why he has to keep Jessie at arms length...and good 'ole Jessie...well...let's just say she trys to push the limit. You don't know who to trust in this book, no one is who they seem to be! There is so many twists and turns in this book you just might get dizzy...but in a great way! The end will leave you gasping for breath and wishing it was August already!

I gave this book 4 stars!

Haven by Kristi Cook

2011-04-26T16:03:00.000-07:00

Violet doesn't understand why she feels drawn to the Winterhaven School. She just knows it's the right place for her. When she discovers the school's secret, it all makes sense: Everyone at Winterhaven has psychic gifts. For the first time in her life, Violet doesn't have to hide her visions. She's always seen them as a curse, but now she can hone her ability and try to control it.

But she's thrown completely off balance when she meets the most alluring - and most mysterious- boy in school. She's never connected with anyone the way she does with Aidan, and the intensity takes them both by surprise. But as their relationship deepens, she begins to have visions of Aidan's death - and see's that she is the one fated to kill him.

Violet has never been able to prevent her visions from coming true. But this time she'll do whatever it takes...even if it means sacrificing herself for the boy she loves.

I'm not sure how to feel about this book...I liked it, but at points I felt like I was reading Twilight with new character names! That being said, I am sure it is hard to come up with new and inventive vampire stories that no one has read. There were some twists, but more at the end then anywhere else. I thought the author could have done better with her foreshadowing...it was just really obvious (to me at least), what Aidan was...even before we knew. The love story was very Edward/Bella-esque...I want him/her but I can't...Stay away from me...I'm a monster... I will say that the ending was AMAZING!! It was the best part of the book by far. I think Kristi Cook has a great idea for this series, and I can't wait to see what happens with Violet, Aidan and the rest of the gang at Winterhaven...I just hope the rest are more original and less Twilighty!

I give this book 3.5 stars!

Elsewhere by Gabrielle Zevin

2011-04-23T16:34:00.001-07:00

Welcome to Elsewhere. It is usually warm with a breeze, the sun and the stars shine brightly, and the beaches are marvelous. It's quiet and peaceful here. And you can't get sick or any older. Curious to see new paintings by Picasso? Swing by one of Elsewhere's museums. Need to talk to someone about your problems? Stop by Marilyn Monroe's psychiatric practice.

Elsewhere.

It's where fifteen year old Liz Hall ends up, after she has died. It's a place so like Earth, yet completely different from it. Here Liz will age backwards from the day of her death until she becomes a baby again and returns to Earth.

But Liz wants to turn sixteen, not fourteen (again). She wants to get her drivers liscense. She wants to graduate from High school, and go to college. She wants to fall in love. And now that she is dead, Liz is being forced to live a life she doesn't want with a grandmother she has only just met. And it is not going well.

How can Liz let go of the only life she has ever known and embrace a new one? Is it possible that a life lived in reverse is no different from a life lived forward?

I thought this was a very interesting read. The fact that instead of just dying and living forever, dying and then doing the whole process backward was something I never would've thought of. Even though that may sound comforting, it doesn't mean it would be easy. I love how Liz tried to hold onto her old life, but learned that she could still live. I loved Owen...even though for a moment he broke Liz's heart...he was a man after my own heart! I thought this was a very touching and moving book. THere were times I felt my heart break, and times I wanted to slap Liz out of her funk! If I didn't know what I know about the afterlife from my beliefs, this would give me some measure of thinking!

I gave this book 3 stars!

Re-do

2011-04-21T19:00:00.000-07:00

So after reading City of Fallen Angels again...(yes I am one of those people) I feel like I need to re-review this book. I feel like I wasn't as honest with myself and the readers of this blog as I should have been. So that being said...if you've read the preceeding post/review...PLEASE RE-READ IT!!!

City of Fallen Angels by Cassandra Clare

2011-04-14T21:21:00.001-07:00

The Mortal War is over, and Clary Fray is back home in New York, excited about all the possibilities before her. She's training to become a Shadowhunter and to use her unique power. Her mother is getting married to the love of her life. Downworlders and Shadowhunters are at peace at last. And - most important of all --Clary can finally call Jace her boyfriend.

But nothing comes without a price.

Someone is murdering the Shadowhunters who used to be in Valentine's Circle, provoking tensions between Downworlders and Shadowhunters that could lead to a second bloddy war. Clary's best friend Simon, can't help her. His mother just found out he's a vampire and now he's homeless. Everywhere he turns, someone wants him on their side - along with the power of the curse that's wrecking his life. And they're willing to do anything to get what they want. At the same time he's dating two beautiful, dangerous girls - neither knows about the other.

When Jace begins to pull away from Clary without explaining why, she is forced to delve into the heart of a mystery whose solution reveals her worst nightmare: She herself has set in motion a terrible chain of events that could lead to her losing everything she loves. Even Jace.

Cassandra Clare is an amazing author who has created an amazing world...that being said...I am rather disappointed in this installment of The Mortal Instruments. I was so excited to see what happened with Clary and Jace after the big battle. For three books I have waited to see what would happen with Clary and Jace...and after a "happy" ending in City of Glass, I was expecting happy things for them in this book, only to find myself wondering if they will ever get a happy ending. Although I was happy to learn more about Simon...I wondered when he became such a main player. To me the best part of the book was the last several chapters...it was back to good old Mortal Instuments action! Alec and Magnus were back...Jace and Clary were fighting side by side...I was in HEAVEN!

I didn't love this book, but I didn't hate it either. To me it was a "coffee bean" book...something to tide everyone over. I hope that the long wait between City of Fallen Angels and City of Lost Souls is worth it...I really want it to be!

I give this book 3 Stars!

Tiger's Curse by Colleen Houck

2011-04-13T16:00:00.000-07:00

I really wish I could find a picture of the book cover...it is really, really cool! The last thing Kelsey Hayes thought she'd be doing this summer was trying to break a 300 year old Indian curse. With a mysterious white tiger named Ren. Halfway around the world. But that's not exactly what happened. Face-to-face with dark forces, spell-binding magic, and mystical worlds where nothing is what it seems, Kelsey risks everything to piece together an ancient prophecy that could break the curse forever. This book was breathtaking! Colleen Houck did a tremendous job in giving so many details, without them the book would not be what it is! As someone who one day wants to tour the world, I felt like I have already been to India and seen some amazing sights! Not only that but I was able to feel every thought, emotion, and desire of the characters! I had a hard time getting into it...but then I couldn't put it down! The characters are so vividly written that you feel like they are in the room with you, and I swear I felt like I could feel Ren's fur... Kelsey has had a hard life, but where some teens may let it make them bitter, she hasn't. When she gets a temporary job to help with a circus with it's tiger, she's a little apprehensive, but it turns her life upside down. She finds that she has a certian pull to the tiger Dhiren, whom she affectionatly nicknames Ren, and who it seems has a pull to her as well. When she is offered a chance of a lifetime to accompany Ren to his homeland of India how can she refuse? Well there is more to Ren than meets the eye. Can she let herself feel for the man Ren is, what she feels for Ren the tiger? Will she push him away and deny herself a chance at love because of her own insecurities? I could tell you...but then you wouldn't read the book! I will say that I wish I had a box of kleenex with me at the end. It was heart wrenching! I cannot WAIT until June for the next installment of this saga! This is one book that I will definatly be adding to my personal library...you should too!

I gave this book 5 stars!!

13 to Life by Shannon Delany

2011-04-11T08:05:00.001-07:00

EVerything about Jessie Gillmansen's life changed when her mother died. Now even her hometown of Junction is changing.Mysterious dark things are happening. All Jessie wants is to avoid more change. But while showing a hot new guy around Junction High, she's about to discover a whole new type of change. Pietr Rusakova is more than good looks and a fascinating accent - he's a guy with a dangerous secret. And his very existence is sure to bring big trouble to Jessie's small town. It seems change is the one thing Jessie can't avoid. (Summay from the back of the book)

This book will do for werewolves what "Twilight" did for vampires! From the very get go I was totally emmersed in this story. Jessie is struggling to come back after the death of her mother. However, making the girl that killed you mother your best friend, may not be the smartest move she's ever made. Then in walks Pietr (Peter)...her whole life turns upside down. She is drawn to him, but so is her best friend Sarah. Jessie pushes Sarah and Pietr together...even though she and Pietr both have feelings for each other. When Jessie discovers that she and Pietr share a common tragedy, losing a parent, or in Pietr case both parents, they vow to be there for each other no matter what. Jessis knows that Pietr is hiding something from her, but she's going to find out. Once she does though...will her feelings for Pietr change? Will she be able to trust him? The ending if this book will leave you stunned and amazed and wanting more!

I really enjoyed this book! Shannon cracked me up by having Jessie addicted to what else...VAMPIRE BOOKS :)! It made me giggle! I thought the characters were well rounded and yet each one is harboring secrets that can really hurt someone else. Peitr has so many great attributes...kind, gentle, sad, protective, hot...the list can go on and on! IT is a MUST READ!!! Put it at the top of your reading lists...you will NOT regret it!!

I gave this book 4 stars!

Need by Carrie Jones

2011-04-06T14:54:00.001-07:00

Zara white suspects there's a freaky guy semi-stalking her. She's also obsessed with phobias. And it's true, she hasn't exactly been the herself since her stepfather died. But exiling her to shivery Maine to live with her grandmother? That seems a bit extreme. The move is suppossed to help her stay sane...but Zara's pretty sure her mom can't deal with her right now.

She couldn't be more wrong. Turns out the semi-stalker isn't a figment of Zara's over active imagination. In fact he's following her, leaving behind an eerie trial of gold dust. There's something not right - not human-in this sleepy little Maine town, and all signs point to Zara. (taken from cover flap summary)

So you'll just have to trust me that this is a good book....I read it awhile ago, but wanted to review it before I put up the review for the newest book in the series. I promise that you will NEVER look at a pixie/fairy the same again!

I gave this book 4 stars!

Captivate by Carrie Jones

2011-04-06T14:45:00.001-07:00

Zara and her friends knew they hadn't solved the pixie problem for good. Far from it. The kings needs grow deeper everyday he's stuck in captivity, while his control over his people get weaker. It's made him vulnerable. And now there's a new king in town.

A turf war is imminent, since the new pizie king, Astley is moving in quickly. Nick nearly kills him in the woods on day one, but Zara comes to his rescue. Astley swears that he and Zara are destined to be together, that he's one of the good guys. Nick isn't buying it, though Zara isn't as sure - despite herself she want to trust the new king. But it's more than her relationship with Nick that is at stake. It's her life...and his. (Taken from the book flap summary)

This book was full of so many twists and turns it will make you head swim! I love the relationship between Nick and Zara...though at times I wanted to smack Zara for Nick...The ending will make you gasp in disbelief and break your heart at the same time! Who knew that pixies could be so evil? I promise you'll never guess!

I gave this book 4 stars!

Entice by Carrie Jones

2011-04-06T14:34:00.001-07:00

Zara and Nick are soul mates, meant to be together forever. But that's not how things have worked out. For starters, Nick is gone. He's been taken to some myhtic place for warriors called Valhalla, where Zara and her friends might be able to get him back. It's just not going to be easy. Meanwhile, Bedford needs it's warriors more than ever, since a group of evil pixies is devastating the place, with teens going missing everyday. An all-out war seems imminent. But even if Zara and her friends can find the way to Valhalla, there's that other small problem: Zara's been pixie kissed. When she finds Nick, will he even want to leave with her? Especially considering she hasn't turned into just any pixie...She's Astley's queen. (Taken from the book flap summary) I really liked the first two books in this series...I liked this one but not as much. Maybe I was missing Nick and the relationship that he and Zara have, or maybe it's just that this book moved so much slower. It was interesting to watch Zara's friends and family try to come to terms with her new role as a pixie and a queen no less. I have to give so much credit to Astley...watching his queen do everything in her power to save the boy she loves...and then helping her to do just that...AMAZING! I am making a prediction though...the love that Zara and Nick shared...I think in the next book we may see the ending of it. I really hope not, because that was one of the best parts of these books...I don't know anything...just a prediction. This is a great book with lots of suspense and action, but like I said I was missing the love between Nick and Zara.

I gave this book 3 stars!

The Dead Girl's Dance by Rachel Caine

2011-04-04T17:38:00.001-07:00

Claire Danvers has had her share of challenges - like being a genius in a school that favors beauty over brains, dealing with the homicidal girls in her dorm, and above all. finding out that her college town is overrun with vampires. On the upside, she has a great roommate (who tends to disappear at sunup) and a new boyfriend, Shane...whose vampire hunting dad has called in back-up: cycle punks who like the idea of killing just about anything. Now a fraterinty is throwing it's annual Dead Girl's Dance and - surprise!- Claire and her equally outcast best friend Eve, have been invited. When they find out why, all hell is going to break loose. Because this time both the living and the dead are coming out - and everbody's hungry for blood. I sooooo LOVE these books! Have I said that already? I really, really do! I was so happy at the end of Glass House's when Shane and Claire got together...let me just wipe the drool from my chin...I think they are an amazing couple! I love Claire! There are so many things about her that I wish I could take into myself....she has no fear (well if she does, she hides it pretty well)...she is soo stinkin' smart...she is cute....she has a HOT boyfriend (okay...I have a HOT hubby so I guess I can't count that)...she is an amazing friend! In this installment of The Morganville Vampire series, Claire has settled into the Glass House, and of course they fond themselves in a heated battle. Shane's dad is in town...kidnapping people...trying to destroy the vamps he hates so bad. Well the vamps can play that game too...who better to take then...SHANE (say it ain't so?!?!)...and not to mention Eve's creepy brother is now out of jail and stalking her and Claire. What else could go wrong? Well, let me just say it's Morganville...if nothing goes wrong...then something is definatly wrong! At the end Claire makes a decision that may just cost her life, but in turn will save those she loves.... I must say that I am sooooo TEAM SHANE! I love Michael too...but something about bad boy Shane just gets to me :)! Whose team are you on? I hope you will let these books sink their teeth into you (yes pun intended)! I keep thinking the lovely and talented Ms. Caine will surely run out of ideas...and then BAM! She proves that her imagination is full of storylines yet to be written...THANK HEAVENS!!!

I gave this book 4 stars!

Heavenly, Penitence, and Absolution by Jennifer Laurens

2011-04-04T17:23:00.000-07:00

I met someone.

Matthias.

My autistis sisters gaurdian angel.

Honest, inspiring, and funny.

HOT.

And immortal.

That was the problem.

What could I do?

I did what any other girl would do - I fell in love with him.

This is a trilogy about your average American teenaged girl named Zoe. Well maybe not so avcerage...Zoe likes to party and hook up with hot guys...and oh ya...she see's dead people. Actually Zoe has an incredible gift of being able to see spirits...good and bad...and Gaurdian Angels. When her sister runs away from her for the millionth time, Matthias comes to rescue and Zoe's world is forever changed. When she is finally convinced that Matthias is legit, angel and lost girl come together in a love that changes destiny. But Heaven on Earth can't last forever.

I am reviewing these books together because the story moves seamlessly from one book to the other. Throughout this trilogy Zoe is faced with many crazy, scary, horrific and happy events, and always by her side is Matthias. What happens though when she starts to have feelings for a human boy, and her ex-best friends ex-boyfriend? CAn she love two people at once? Can Weston love her depsite the fact that she can see spirits. Life throws Zoe many curve balls...a life threatening accident, the loss of her friend, the gates of Hell literally gaping after her, and yet through it all her faith in herself, Weston, and of course Matthias stays strong.

I liked these books. I thought the story was great...there were just a few things that kept buggung me. One...Matthias keeps telling Zoe that she is mortal and needs to live her life and have her exoeriences, and yet he seems to always be there trying to stop her. Two...Matthias keeps telling Zoe that they will be together someday...and then the series ends...WHAT!?!? Will we ever find out that they are together or were we simply to imply that we knew they were? I like Matthias...don't get me wrong, but I REALLY want to see Zoe and Weston together...forever. Like I said I liked these books...not my faves, but they are a good read!

I gave these books 3 Stars!

Spread the word

2011-04-01T16:48:00.001-07:00

If you read this blog and you have friends who read...spread the word about it! I would love to have lots of followers and readers...and of course COMMENTS!!!

Glass Houses by Rachel Caine

2011-04-01T16:37:00.001-07:00

College freshman Claire Danvers has had enought of her nightmarish dorm situation. When Claire heads off campus, the imposing old house where she finds a room may not be much better. Her new roommates don't show many signs of life, but they'll have Claire's back when thetowns deepest secrets come crawling out, hungry for fresh blood. I seriously have fallen in LOVE with this vampire series! Claire is not at all what you would expect as a herione at all...but that is most definatly what she is. She ROCKS! Put through a horrible first few months at school and nearly paying with her life, she finally finds solitude in the Glass House. At first they aren't exactly thrilled about taking a 16 year old under their roof, but the thing about the residents of the Glass House...they're family first and foremost...and they'll have your back no matter what! You will fall in love with crazy, ecentric, Gothic Eve. Shane will make you swoon, and Michael will have you guessing about him for awhile! When Claire finds out that vampires run the town, instead of turning tail and running as fast as she can, she stands side by side with her new roommates and makes a stand. This book will suck you in from the very first pages! There is some language, but other than that it is a clean book with lots of thrills, chills, and action! You may even see the budidngs of some romances. I promise...like a good potatoe chip...you won't be able to stop with one book...you'll keep reaching for more!

I give this book 4 stars!

P.S. I'll be reviewing ALL the Morganville Vampire books...soon!

Once in a Full Moon by Ellen Schreiber

2011-03-30T16:31:00.001-07:00

Celeste Parker is used to hearin scary stories about werewolves-Legend's Run is famous for them. She's used to everything in the small town until Brandon Maddox moves to Legend's Run and Celeste finds herself immediately to the handsome new student. But when, after an unnerving visit with a psychic, she encounters a pack of wolves and gorgeous, enigmatic Brandon, she must discover whether his transformation is more than a legend or just a trick of the shadows in the moonlight. Her best friends may never forgive her if she gives up her perfect boyfriend, Nash, for Brandon, who's from the wrong side of town. But she can't deny her attraction or the strong pull he has on her. Brandon may be Celeste's hero, or he may be the most dangerous creature she could encounter in the woods of Legend's Run. Psychic predictions, generations old secrets, a town divided, and the possiblity of falling in love with a hot and heroic werewolf are the perfect formula for what happens...once in a full moon. I really enjoyed this book! There were so many twists and turns and not to mention a sweet love story to boot. Celeste is a cute girl who is so sweet to everyone to the point that she puts their happiness before hers. When she sees Brandon and thay have this instant connection...it made me heart melt! Brandon is the epitimy of a great boyfriend...even if it has to be in secret. I love the realtionship between Celeste and Brandon...and then there is the end...all I can say is......... WHEN DOES THE NEXT ONE COME OUT!?!?!? The end will leave you wanting for more...I promise! I also loved the different take on the werewolves...not just the same old story...get bit become a wolf...Ellen brought so much more to it!

I give this book 4 Stars!!!

Cryer's Cross by Lisa McMann

2011-03-29T20:18:00.001-07:00

I really hate it when I can't find a picture of the book cover...oh well! The small town of Cryer's Cross is rocked by tragedy when an unassuming freshman disappears without a trace. Kendall Fletcher wasn't that friendly with the missing girl, but the angst wreaks havoc on her OCD addled brain. When a second student goes missing-someone close to Kendall's heart-the community is in an uproar. Caught in a downward spiral of fear and anxiety, Kendall's not sure if she can hold it together. When she starts hearing the voices of the missing calling out to her and pleading for help, she fears she's losing her grip on reality. But when she finds messages scratched in a desk at school-messages that could only be from the missing student who used to sit there-Kendally decides that crazy or not, she'd never forgive herself if she didn't act on her suspicions. Somethings not right in Cryer's Cross-and Kendall's about to find out just how far the townspeople will got o keep their secrets buried. This was a very intense book! It was also a quick read...I read it about 3 hours...not because it's small...it's THAT good! From the very first pages of this book I was caught. I loved Kendall...having some OCD myself I could totally understand what her life was like...crazy and yet not to her. Lisa makes you feel just like you are a part of this small town in Montana, where the soccor team consists of 1/3 of the school...until people start missing. Not only was there lots if intense moments, but there was also a budding romance between Kendall and Jacian...even if it's not something she wants at the moment (or thinks she needs). You can feel every emotion the Kendall feels...guilt...love...fear...the compulsion to do things just so...I found myself wondering when I became her! The ending of this book left me trembling in so many ways! I was scared to death for Kendall...my heart broke for Kendall and then I was sickened by what secrets the past held. Lisa McMann is an amazing story teller and she wove an amazing story in Cryer's Cross!

I give thiso book 5 Stars!!!

Delirium by Lauren Oliver

2011-03-24T14:35:00.001-07:00

Ninety-five days, and then I'll be safe. I wonder whether the procedure will hurt. I want to get it over with. It's hard to be patient. It's hard not to be afraid whike I'm still uncured, though so far the delira hasn't touched me yet. Still I worry. They say that in the old days, LOVE drove people to madness. The deadliest of all deadly things: it kills you both when you have it and when you don't.

This book was AMAZING! It is set in the future and would you believe that they most deadly thing on the earth at the time would be love? Seriously...it's what caused all the wars, made bullies, made everyone unhappy...so what do you do? You cure everyone of love, you pair them up with their future spouse and you tell them how many children they'll have, what they will do for a living and everything else...but what if...what if they were wrong? What if there is nothing wrong with being in love? What if without love there is nothing but nothingness? Lena is excited about her chance to have the procedure and then...the unevitable happens...she falls in love.

This is an amazing love story not unlike "Romeo and Juliet" in a lot of ways. Lena is ready to spend her life empty and emotionless and then she meets Alex...Along the way she discovers the lies that have been told, the things that have been hidden from her, and a love that she can't live without. I was breathless for most of this book...literally...not only was there romance, but there was some serious action. The ending left me breathless and heartbroken! Make sure you have tissues...I cried...ALOT!!! I can't imagine a world where there was no love, but Lauren Oliver brought it to life in a stunning and breathtaking way!

I give this book 4 Stars!

Angelfire by Courtney Allison Moulton

2011-03-21T14:28:00.001-07:00

Every night Ellie is haunted by terrifying dreams of monstrous creatures that are hurting her, killing her.

When Ellie meets Will, she feels on the verge of remembering something just beyond her grasp. His attention is intense and romantic and Ellie feels like her soul has known him for centuries.
On her seventeenth birthday, on a dark street at midnight, Will awakens Ellie's power, and she knows that she can fight the creatures that stalk her in the grim darkness. Only Will hold the keys to Ellie's memories, whole lifetimes of them, and when she looks at him, she can no longer pretend anything was just a dream.

Ellie has power that no one can match, and her role is to hunt and kill the reapers that prey on human souls. But in order to survive the dangerous and ancient battle of angels and the Fallen, she must also hunt for the secrets of her past lives and truths that may be too frightening to remember.

This was a great book. For those who have read Cassandra Clare's "The Mortal Intrsuments" trilogy (City of Bones, City of AShes, and City of Glass) and Unearthly...this is a good mix between the two! There is the good the bad and of course the ugly. I really liked Ellie, my only problem was how she just accepted the fact that she was a hunter/killer of reapers. It seemed that she was shocked for a few mintues and then over it...I guess Will being her hot gaurdian helped in that maybe ;)! I thought Will was an interesting character. You can obviously see that he loves Ellie and yet he is si stiff and for lack of a better image...he acts like he constantly has a stick up his rear! Okay...that being said...I really did like this book! The hint of a blooming romance was enough to drive me insane...JUST KISS HER ALREADY...I kpet yelling this at Will!

THere were so many twists...just when I thought maybe Ellie was really something bad...BOOM...something would happen and I would be like well...hmmm...guess not! And Will...I kept thinking that he was hiding more than he was...he very possibly still could be...but at the moment he's not.

There are some pretty violent scenes...and some that were kind of gory so beware of that. It's not my cup of tea, but it wasn't too bad. I am anxious to find out what happens in the next book...whenever that will be!

I give this book 4 stars!

Firelight by Sophie Jordan

2011-03-17T16:06:00.001-07:00

Marked as special at an early age, Jacinda knows her every move is watched. But she longs for freedom to make her own choices. When she breaks the most sacred tenet among her kind, she nearly pays with her life. A strnager who was sent to hunt her kind. For Jacinda is a Draki - a descendant of dragons, whose greatest defense is her secret ability to shift into human form.

Forced to flee to the mortal world with her family, Jacinda struggles to adapt to her new surrondings. The only bright light is Will. Gorgeous, ellusive Will who stirs her inner Draki to life. Although she is drawn to him, Jacinda knows Wills dark family secret: He and his family are hunters. She should avoid him at all costs. But he inner Draki is dying - if it does die she will be left as human forever. She'll do anything to prevent that. Even if it means getting closer to her most dangerous enemy.

This book was amazing! I loved reading something other than vampires, werewolves, and fairies! I was hooked from the first pages! I love Jacinda and how she tries so hard for everyone to be happy...even if it meant she wasn't. I loved watching her fight to stay away from Will...and lose! It is a great story that ended leavng me absolutly breathless...and it will leave you that way too!

I give this book 4 stars!

Unearthly by Cynthia Hand

2011-03-17T15:48:00.001-07:00

It all starts with a boy in the woods...

Clara Gardner has recently learned that she is part angel. Having angel blood run thhrough her veins not only makes her smarter, faster and stronger than a normal human, but it means she also has a purpose, something she was put on earth to do. Figuring out what that is, isn't that easy.

Her visions of a raging forest fire and an alluring stranger lead her to a new school in a new town. When she meets Christain who turns out to the be the boy of her dreams (literally), everything seems to fall into place - and out of place at the same time. Because there is another guy, Tucker, who appeals to Clara's less than angelic side.

As Clara tries to find her way in a world she no longer understands, she encounters unforseen dangers and choices she thought she would never have to make - between honesty and deceit, love and duty, good and evil. When tge fire from her vision finally ignites, will Clara be ready to face her destiny?

I LOVED this book from the very start! I was so happy that I didn't have to wade through pages of Clara trying to figure out what she is, I was glad she already knew. I have to admit that I am TEAM TUCKER...all the way! I loved the relationship between Tucker and Clara, and watching it evolve. Maybe I will Christain will earn some feeling from me in the next book...but I think I will still LOVE Tucker :)! There were certian parts where my heart broke and I didn't want to keep reading (okay...I would have kept reading...I just wouldn't have been happy), but I did! This book just kept getting better and better. It will definatly be on my personal library shelf and soon! I am only sad that now, once again I have to wait for the next book to come out...but once again...I SO CAN'T WAIT!

I give this book 5 AMAZING stars!

Gone by Michael Grant

2011-03-15T20:35:00.001-07:00

There are actually three books (one more coming...at least), but I wanted to review them seperatly. This first book is about a group of kids who suddenly find themselves with out adults...well any one over 15 anyway! In just a moment they all "poof". At first no one wants to believe it, but than the truth starts to set in. So many questions asked...where did they go? Will they come back? How long will they be gone? The answer....no one knows!

Suddenly Sam finds himself in a fight with the snobs from the private school on the hill for power of Perdido Beach...and what power there is! Kids are suddenly showing signs of having immense and strange powers...throwing light that can kill from their hands...levitate things....move like the breeze...heal themselves and others...and that is just the beginning! Not only are the kids mutating and changing...so is the wildlife!

This is a great read...very sci-fi though so if you not into science fiction you might not like them. I am not really as sci-fi lover and I will tell you that I couldn't put this book down! It was all I could do to wait for the other two from the library!

It will really make you think about what would happen in that kind of situation. I kept wondering how my own kids would be able to survive...kind of a scary thought!

I give this book 5 stars!

THese Things Hidden

2011-03-15T20:20:00.000-07:00

I wish I could find a picture of the cover of this book for you...but no luck! This book was so breathtakingly painful, and yet stunningly beautiful at the same time! The author's name is Michelle...something german that I can't remember!

This book made me realize how much I really shouldn't judge others or make snap assessments of others lives. This book is told by four different women so you get varying points of view on the story...but it also helps in getting you crazy confused! I apologize that I can't remember all the names of the characters...it's been a while! It opens up with one of the women leaving prison...the only thing we know is that she is unsure of where she is going, that her parents don't want her anymore, and her sister will never forgive her, all she knows is she is she is going to a safe house. While at the safe house she is suddenly thrust into the face of her past...literally!

THere are so many twists and turns in this book that once you think you have it all figured out a new character starts in on her part of the story and you realize you were totally wrong!

My heart broke for all the women in this book...read it with a box of tissues...ALOT of tissues! There was so much angst and yet the ending will leave you feeling very peaceful and satisfied at how it turns out.

I give this book 4 stars! It is a definate MUST READ!!!

Wintergirls

2011-01-22T21:38:00.000-08:00

Okay so it has been a while since I last posted and it's not like I haven't read anything...I have...I just sort of forgot that I have a book blog! Forgive me please!?!? I will try to add as many of the books I have read as possible over the next few days. I want to start with this book though..."Wintergirls" by Laurie Anderson.

This book is about Lia who is struggling with anorexia. I am not going to lie and say this is a feel good book and everything turns out great **SPOILER ALERT**...it is anything but that! This is a candid look at how anorexia destroys not only the person suffering from it, but the lives of all those around them. Lia doesn't want to get better....she doesn't want to eat and she sure as heck wants her dead best friend to leave her alone. Not only does Lia suffer from anorexia, she also cuts herself to feel anything but what she should. When her sister Emma walks in and finds her in a pool od blood and emaciated to almost nothing, Lia finally admits she has a problem and needs help. I cried. I am not going to lie. This book hit me like a ton of bricks! Maybe because I suffer the same thoughts that Lia does...maybe because I have been there (scary but true)...maybe because this is something I fear may happen to my own daughter. This is a book that all mothers and daughters should read.

There are some graphic moments...but to tell the truth about this disease it needed to be that way. Read it. Be grateful for having a healthy body...be grateful that someone loves you enough to let you know no matter what you weigh you are awesome!

READ WITH A BIG BOX OF KLEENEX!

I gave this book 4 stars. I really liked this book. I think it should be a must read for all girls who think they are too fat...even if the aren't!

The Eternal One

2010-12-01T14:40:00.001-08:00

There seems to be alot of books being written about reincarnation lately..."Fallen", the "Immortal Series"...just to name a few. Some have been really well written and some not so much, so I was a little worried when I started this book. However 6 hours later...I was wanting more! This was a very well written book. Kirsten Miller really did a wonderful job.

HAven is just a child when she starts having "visions" of 'Ethan' the boy she loved. Her father secretly writes to an organization that deals with reincarnation. Little did he know what things he would start into motion! Livng in a small Southern town, Haven is instantly viewed as being possessed by a demon and her "loving" grandmother will stop at nothing to cure her. Suddenly the visions that she had been able to control start coming more and more often and she is felling pulled to go to New York...she's never even been there!

Little does she know she will find 'Ethan', but along the way their eternal love will be challenged by lies, and deciet, but they will also enjoy a few moments or love. As a horrible love triangle starts to unfold Haven begins to wonder if she will ever be able to enjoy an eternity with Iian, or if the devil will ruin them all.

This is a suspense filled book overbrimming with love and passion, deciet and depair, and of course twists around every corner! I couldn't put it down once I started it, and when I did have to put it down to go to bed, I couldn't wait to start reading again!

I loved Haven! She was a vibrant, full of life character who wasn't about to let anything come before her and the truth...or what she thought was the truth! Iian/Ethan was amazing as well. It's always nice to read a book with a hot main character who every time you turn the page is doing something amazing! There are a few "lesser" characters who are great as well. I hope Beau makes another appearance in future works...Adam...as much as I love to hate him...can't wait to see what trouble he causes next time.

So the big question is...do Haven/Constance and Iian/Ethan get to live happily ever after...or is someone waiting in the shadows to bring it all to an end?

Guess we'll have to wait for the next enstallment in the "Eternal Ones" trilogy...due out sometime next fall (I know...WHY?!?!?). It will be worth the wait...that I can promise!

I give this book 5 stars...it was AMAZING!!!

Unraveled

2010-11-07T18:43:00.001-08:00

This is the second book in the "Intertwined" series...and once again you WILL NOT BE ABLE TO PUT IT DOWN!!!

****WARNING: There will be spoilers...sorry :(***

Aden finds himself the King of the vampires...a HUMAN king no less, and an unwanted job at that. Lucky for him he has the worlds greatest friends. Who would've thought that his best friend would be a werewolf, his girlfriend a vampire, and of course a human?! Life is finally getting good for Aden....never mind the death curse that has been sworn and thiose he cares about and dealing with the loss of one of the souls. Who knew that he would miss them when they left? And who could forget his own impending death, not much for a sixteen year old to worry about! If anyone can handle it...Aden can!

There are so many twists and turns to this book that I don't know what to tell you and what not to tell you! Riley and Mary Ann...she discovers something about herself that should have her dead ASAP. It puts their relationship in a precarious spot too. Vicotria and Aden's realationship gets stronger everyday! Encounters with fairies, and goblins leave them tired and sometimes not knowing what or where they have been, but they come out alive.

How do you know if a vampire is really dead? You don't! Just when you think that Aden will take the reigns of being King...someone will try to stop him...will Aden survive? Is this the death that Elijah predicted? If so at least he can die happy right?

Like I said this book has so many twists and turns and excitement...you can't put it down! I literally took it with me everywhere! I know that I am not doing justice in reviewing these books (hopefully I will get better), but take my word for it...JUST READ IT!!! You will LOVE it just like I did!

I gave this book 5 stars!

Sunshine

2010-11-07T18:25:00.000-08:00

"Sunshine" written by Robin McKinley is a book that came out long before the vampires of the "Twilight" saga made vampires cool. With that said said...yes it is a vampire book. However, unlike "Twilight" the vampires in this book are not gorgeous, they are not kind and they are not trying to be good...they are anything but that!

Sunshine has grown up in a world where darkness reigns, where vampires, weres, demons, and the like are a part of life that you avoid...if you want to live that is. Nothing bad has happened out at the lake for years and all she needed was some time alone. She never heard them coming, but you never do hear vampires. They made her dress in a long red dress and then shackle her to a wall, abandoning her with another prisoner. A vampires no less. She knows she is his dinner, and that when he is finished she will be dead. However, when morning comes she is still alive, he hasn't even tried to harm her, and yet it is he who will need her help to survive the day.

Being shackled to the wall awakens a sleeping power deep withen Sunshine. Suddenly she finds herself able to transmute a pocketknife into a key that can set herself and her vampire friend free. Not only that, but as long as he holds onto her, he can go into the sun. They escape from the clutches of an evil vampire who wants to kill Constantine...at any cost, however by doing that they also enrage him and he wants nothing more than both of their blood.

Humans and vampires have never worked together and yet Sunshine and Con share a bond that won't let them stay apart. To defeat Bo they will have to work together and trust one another...if that is possible. Sunshine knows that her father was a powerful sorcerer...she just didn't know how powerful...or that she possessed that same power.

Learning to trust one another Sunshine and Con are able to overcome many challenges that are theirs. Con helps Sunshine learn about her powers and just how far she can go with them. Can they defeat the evil Bo, or will they die at his hands? Will they stay friends once the threat is over?

I really enjoyed this book. It was nice to read a book about vampires where they weren't totally hot and charming, but where their laugh makes your spine tingle, and they look horrible. Ashy skin, creepy color, literally the stuff nightmares are made of. I know that sounds crazy...but it seems like every book that has contained a vampire since "Twilight" came out have been incredibly hot and charming.

I gave this book 5 stars!

Torment

2010-11-07T18:12:00.000-08:00

"Torment" is the second book in the Fallen books written by Lauren Kate. I must warn you there are spoilers if you haven't read "Fallen" yet.

When we last left Luce, Daniel and Cam all Hell had broken loose at Sword and Cross...literally. Now Luce is being whisked away to yet another new school where Daniel thinks she will be safe...as long as she follows the rules. The only thing is he won't tell her why. Little does she know that she is being hunted by more then just the good and evil angels but a whole lot of people. Now that she knows that she has lived several lifetimes Luce is eager to find out what those secrets those lifetimes held. She wants Daniel to tell her, but if he does it will kill her.

Along the way at Shoreline she meets new friends and discovers her ability to read the "shadows". Her friends help her with this new talent and get themselves in trouble along the way. Some things she learns has her head spinning, like why would Daniel and Cam be working together, and how she and Daniel are looked up to by everyone. Another war is brewing...this time there is one person who can tip the balance...Luce thinks it's Daniel...I personally think that it is Luce (just my opinion). Luce is also kept away from Daniel, her family, and her friends back home. She is contstantly tormented by her past, Daniel's keeping secrets from her, and what her future may entail.

The ending of the book will leave you spell bound and wondering why authors can't write any faster :)! I was SHOCKED...but it works! Unfortunatly now we have to wait until next fall to find out if Daniel can find Luce and what secrets she unlocks!

I gave this book 5 stars! LOVED IT!

Fallen

2010-11-07T18:01:00.000-08:00

Okay so apparently last time this review never showed up...don't know why...oh well! This book is written by a wonderful new writer Lauren Kate. In this book we meet Lucinda Price, aka Luce. Luce has recently been removed from a private school and sent to a reform school of sorts where she meets all sorts of interesting people. The first one she meets, she thinks she instantly knows...but how could that be? Plus Daniel, the guy is a real jerk, hot as all get out, but a jerk none the less! Luce however can't resist this pull to him, and he seems to be avoiding her like the plauge. Then enter in Cam...another hot bad boy (the school is full of them). Suddenly Luce finds herself the object of his affection, and Daniel suddenly shows up trying to protect her.

Luce has also been hounded her whole life by these "shadows", they can touch her and skim around her, and terrify her. Whenever they are around nothing good happens! SHe seems to be the only one who can see them...or is she? Things keep intesnsifying between her and Daniel and her and CAm...which one to choose? Suddenly Luce finds out things that will shatter her world! Not only that but there is a war between good and evil brewing and Luce finds herself right in the middle of it. Who will die? Who will win?

I gave this book 5 stars...I couldn't put it down! There is so much adventure, excitement, and of course some romance.

The Clockwork Angel

2010-11-01T20:16:00.001-07:00

I have been waiting FOREVER for this book it seems like. This is the highly anticipated prequel to "The Mortal Instruements" series by Cassandra Clare. All I can say is beware of spoilers in this review...I may not be able to contain myself!

In this book we meet Tessa Gray who has left America in search of her brother somewhere in London. When he fails to meet her at the docks but instead "sends" the Dark Sisters, Tessa knows something isn't quite right. Suddenly Tessa finds herself thrust into a world of Downworlders only to find that she herself is one as well. She has the rare ablilty to transform herself into another person at will. What's more the Magistar, a shadowy figure will stop at nothing to gain her power for himself.

Friendless and hunted, Tessa takes refuge with the Shadowhunters of the London Institute, who swear to help her is she will use her powers to help them. Soon she finds herself fascinated and torn by two men who just happen to be friends: James, whose fragile beauty hides a deadly secret and Will whose blue eyes are striking, but his volatile moods keep everyone but Tessa away. As they are drawn deeper into the heart of a horrible plan that threatens to destroy the Shadowhunters, Tessa realizes she may have to choose between saving her brother and helping her new friends save the world. That may be the most dangerous magic of all.

I LOVED this book! I do have to admit that it took me a few chapters to get into it, but once it clicked it was all I could do to put it down! I loved the characters! Tess is strong and yet so feminine too. It was fun to see how the openness of the Shadowhunters and their way of life was so against her upbringing! Will is most definitly the great grandfather to Jace Herondale (swoon)! So moody and onry and just when I think he will open up and share...he shuts up and becomes arogant and rude again! Definite gene passed on there! There is something about him that I haven't yet figured out...I think it could be something sinister...I guess only time will tell! Jem, aka, James...I liked him...but I can't picture Tessa with him at all! He is so kind and fragile and...well all around nice guy, but I just don't see it!

This book left me wanting more...of course! There were a few things that bugged me though...1-I really wanted to know what the deal with the Clockowrk Angel was...I really have to wait to find out? Maybe it was really obvious and I just didn't see it! 2- Her brother...not gonna say why because it is a total spoiler but let me say this "REALLY?" 3- Humans can't just disappear...not unless they know some pretty hard core magic or something...just sayin'! There were other things, but alas I can't remember them all!

I know a book is good when I go to bed and dream about it several nights in a row! I give this book 5 stars! Now we just have to wait until...January (I think) for "City of Fallen Angels"...maybe we will get more answers...I know we'll get A LOT more Jace....WAHOOO!!!

Cinders

2010-10-10T16:08:00.000-07:00

Sorry no picture for you! This book is by Michelle Davidson Argyle who is a friend of my old college roommate, and it is her debute novel.

This is the story about what happens after "Happily Ever After"...

Cinderella has married her prince, but questions how much of that love is real and how much is from the spell her fairey God mother cast. She wonders if she really loves Rowland, and that is only made harder by a mysterious stranger who haunts her dreams. She is determined to find out who and what he is. As she steps into her role as Princess she begins to discover her love for Rowland, but it may be too late. Cinderella discovers that happily ever-after isn't as long as you thought.

This was an amazing book! I really enjoyed the story about what might have happened after Cinderella married her prince. It also made me realize...be careful what you wish for...it just might come true!

I give this book 5 stars!

Cry Wolf

2010-10-08T19:54:00.001-07:00

When they say looks can be decieving they were defiantly talking about this authors covers...DON'T JUDGE THE BOOK BY THE COVER! Patricia Briggs is one of my favorite authors! I LOVED her Mercy Thompson books and I loved this one as well.

I will tell you that her books bring in all sorts or the supernatural...witches, fairies, trolls, werewolves, shapeshifters...you name them they are in there! This book is no exception!

Anna finds herself in a suddenly changing world. Her alpha and his mate who tortured her for years are now dead, and the man/werewolf responsible says that she is his mate and not only that but she is a valuable and rare Omega. Anna's not sure what all that means, but she is sure that she feels safe and protected for the first time around Charles. Moving to Montana to be closer to him, she finds herself on a hunt for a rouge wolf that is draped in a magic so dark it could threaten the entire pack. She also discovers her love for Charles and the power that goes with being an Omega.

I so love Patricia Briggs! Her writing is so fluid it's easy to emmerse yourself in the story and find yourself as one of the characters. Her stories are so engaging that you can't help but fall in love with them as well as the characters! She instantly transport you to a world where werewolves can be your neighbor and if your lucky enough your protector. I can easily see her world intertwined with ours.

I give this book 5 stars. I am very excited to read the next book in the series "Hunting Ground".

Guardian of the Gate

2010-10-06T15:29:00.001-07:00

This book is the second book in the "Prophecy" trilogy by Michelle Zink. In this installment we find ourselves along for the ride with Lia and her companions as she tries to uncover all about the prophecy. Sixteen year old Lia searches for a way to end the prophecy that has brought so much pain to families and herself. As she searches for a way to end it, her sister Alice is busy honing her skills that she will use to try to defeat Lia. Alice will stop at nothing to reclaim her sister's role in the prophecy. They always knew that the prophecy would turn those closest to them against them, but they didn't know what betrayal would lead them to do. All they know is that in the end, only one sister will be standing.

I often wonder why it is that second books are more often better than the first. I LOVED this next book in the trilogy! It was full of suspense, heartache, romance, and yes even sometimes fun. We follow Lia on her travels to find Altus and her Aunt Abigail who can hopefully answer much needed questions. Along the way we meet new friends...some hotter than others :), and some enemies that will shock you. Nothing in Lia's life is going to be easy. She had to leave James her beloved behind, only to find that her sister Alice is now after him...and not likely for good. Never fear...enter Dimitri Markov (I must interject here and say...YUMMINESS) who will take over as Lia's protector. Everything in Lia's life has been turned upside down and it will continue to be that way for a long time it seems. Who can she really trust to help her in her journey? Will she find the missing pages? Will she ever be able to tell Dimitri how she really feels, or will she die at the hands of her sister and Sameal first?

Well unfortunatly we have to WAIT until August of 2011 to find out the answers to those questions. I for one will be waiting...and not very patiently either!

I give this book 5 stars...and really...must we really wait til August?

The Prophecy of the Sisters by Michelle Zink

2010-10-03T20:12:00.001-07:00

Twin sisters Lia and Alice Milthorpe have just lost their father to a freak accident. They have also become enemies. As they discover their roles in an ancient prophecy they find themselves deep in a mystery that involves a tatoo like mark, their parents' deaths, a boy, a book, and a lifetime of secrets. Lia and Alice don't know who they can trust, they just know they can't trust each other.

Lia knows what part she plays in the propheccy, but what if she is wrong? Is she strong enough to do what is asked of her, to end everything once and for all, or will she give in and watch the destruction of the world? And what about her twin Alice, to what extremes will she go to make sure that Lia fails? It seems as if Alice knows everything about her role and Lia knows nothing, why is that? Two sisters literally hold the balance of mankind in their hands...

I loved this book! It was one of those Ihad a hard time putting down once I started...no matter how exhausted I was. Lia is an amazing character with so much love, detemination and yet a softness that you can't help but love. Not that there weren't times I got frusterated with her! From the very first page I knew that Alice was not to be trusted, there was just something about her that didn't feel right. There are so many 'quiet' characters in this book...DON'T OVER LOOK THEM! They have some serious importance to Lia and the story, and quite frankly I wish they had bigger parts....maybe in the next book!

This book is not for those who may get queasy about witchcraft or talk of fallen angels. There is some reference to those things, but it is a mere mention. However some may find it disconcerting.

I gave this book 4 stars...and I can't wait to read the next one!!!

Fate

2010-10-03T20:00:00.000-07:00

Once again I couldn't find a cover picture of this book. This is the sequel to "Tattoo" by Jennifer Lynn Barnes. In this installment we find Bailey and her friends two years after their last adventure (I won't say what in case you haven't read it yet...I hate it when reviewers do that). Now seniors in high school they are facing lots of changes...some of them are dealing well with that and some not so well.

Bailey meets the rest of the Sidhe, a powerful ancient race who are as beautiful as they are deadly, and they stop at nothing to get what they want. Before she knows it Bailey is drawn into an Otherworldly web more compilcated than anything she weaves as a mortal Fate. Senior year is a time of choices, a time for temptation, a time for Bailey to figure out once and for all who she is and who she wants to be. But she may have no choice at all in that matter.

Once again the story is a great idea, but there was a lot of nothingness for me in the middle of the book. I felt like we could've gotten to the end of the conflict if we hadn't wasted so much time on more mundane things (where they were going to eat, the whole geek chic bit). Sometimes I wanted to smack Bailey and make her see that the answer was so dang obvious...even she couln't miss it! I like that the gang was all there again, but was a bit put out that Bailey questioned the strength of their friendship. I do have to say that the end was awesome! I won't tell you...but I really liked it!

I gave this book 3 stars.

Tattoo

2010-09-29T15:35:00.000-07:00

Sorry no book cover picture...at least that I could find! This book by Jennifer Lynn Barnes is about four best friends who sudddenly find themselves in a fight to keep the world balanced. When the four friends purchase a set of tattoo's they had no idea that along with them they would suddenly find themselves with different powers. How are these 4 teens supossed to save the world when they have no idea what they are up against?

This was a nice quick read, and I liked it. However it took until almost the end to get to the point where I was getting hooked into the story and then it ended! It's a great storyline, the mixture of fairies, and greek mythology...it just needed...more substance. Like I said it is a good read and I am anxious to read the next one to see what happens.

I gave this book 3 stars.

Intertwined

2010-09-27T18:47:00.001-07:00

This book is about a boy named Aden who has no family and has spent his life in and out of institutions. You see Aden has four human souls living inside him. Aden and the souls have become friends, but they cause him all kinds of trouble. One soul can time travel, one can predict the death of people,and one can raise the dead. All Aden wants is peace. Then Aden meets Mary Ann a girl who quiets the voices...as long as he is near her anyway! Somehow they share an inexplicable bond of friendship, but have no fear it will be tested! A shape-shifting werewolf wants Mary Ann for his own, and Aden can't resist a vampire princess. The four will enter into a dark underworld of intrigue and danger...but not everyone makes it out alive!

This book was amazing! It was defiantly a "can't put it down" book! I really fell for Aden...even if he is constantly talking to himself...er...the souls in his head. Even though he has a definate dark side he is also very sweet. I found myself comparing myself to Mary Ann...a girl with a plan who knew what she wanted only to find that wasn't what she wanted at all! She is a true friend and defends Aden no matter what, and he does likewise with her. Victoria and Riley (no relation to the vamps from the Twilight Saga) bring their own spice and allure to the scene. Both are devastatingly beautiful with incredible powers and both fond themselves in love with people they shouldn't be!

This book is full of adventure, suspense, and of course romance. You will fall in love with the characters I promise! I am anxiously awaiting the chance to read the next installment "Unraveled" and you will be too once you've been Intertwined!

I give this book 5 stars!

The Forest of Hands and Teeth

2010-09-24T19:41:00.001-07:00

I got this book as a recommendation from a friend and I was excited to read it and then I started to read it. It wasn't what I thought it was going to be...at all! I like Science Fiction and Fantasy, but this was a bit out os my comfort zone...or so I thought. Please be gracious in reading this review because I read it awhile ago and am going on memory! Mary is a young girl who has grown up in a village thinking that she and everyone that lives in that village are the only survivors of the Return. Mary isn't satisfied thinking that there is nothing more than the village and longs to find the ocean that her mother has told her stories about. Life changes when her mom wanders too close to the fence and is infected by the inconsecrated...basically they are zombies...people who were infected that died and come back and the living dead. They don't necessarily want to devour human flesh...they just want to infect them.

After a breach in the fence by the unconsecrated Mary, her bethrothed Harry, his brother and his bethrothed Cass,Mary's brother and his wife, and a little boy named Jacob make a run down the paths that they were always told were forbidden and lead no where. ..they soon find out differently. Mary has always believed there was more out there...will she find it? How many survive the adventure and how many become infected or die? This is a thrilling read, but not recommended if zombies give you the qeausy...trust me though you'll get over it soon. There is no gore or anything like that to worry about...trust me I don't do that at all!

I give this 4 stars.

The Dead-Tossed Waves

2010-09-24T19:16:00.001-07:00

This book is a companion to "The Forest of Hands and Teeth". I was anxious to read this book, and it more than lived up to my expectiations. In this book we meet Gabry (short for Gabrielle) who is more than content to live in her lighthouse on the sea and safely behind the Barriers. Life after the Return is never safe, and there are threats that even the Barriers can't keep out, and Gabry's life starts to unravel. One night beyond the Barriers, two boys...one she has known forever and one who is veiled in mystery. One reckless moment and lives are changed forever. Gabry only knows one thing, that if she is to have any hope of a future, she must face the forest of her mother's past.

I really loved this book! Every time I thought I had something figured out, I'd find out just how wrong I was! Gabry is an amazing character and I love how she grows from a girl who is scared to break the rules to a girl who is strong enough to break all the rules. She is also lucky enough to have two amazing guys to choose from...and trust me it is a hard decision! Catcher and Elias both have amazing strength physically and emotionally and a fierce determination to keep Gabry safe no matter what the cost. Once again we find ourselves wandering the path looking for safety, if there is any to be found. I loved the strength of the characters of this book, and it was nice to revisit some of the characters from "The Forest of Hands and Teeth". One line I really LOVED was this: "We will always survive. There is always hope."

As I read through this book I was able to draw many parallels. One the path is similar to the path that we call LIFE...we never know what dangers may lurk ahead or where the path may take us, but it is up to us to choose which way to go. We have to have faith in ourselves and trust in those around us and it will all be okay. Two the Barriers are similar to the barriers that we give ourselves...the things that stop us from being the best we can be...from trying new things, meeting new people...you name it. There were many more parallels I could name, but this is getting a bit long winded, and your probably getting bored!

I give this book 5 stars...it was AMAZING! I enjoyed this book a lot more then the first book...but I liked it too. I would recommend buying it and I know it will find itself to my personal library shortly! I can't wait to read the next book...I have to wait almost a year, but I can promise that it will be worth the wait!

The Reformed Vampire Support Group

2010-09-20T20:33:00.000-07:00

Okay...well can I just say that I really didn't like this book...I didn't hate it, but I didn't love it! It was too slow for me, and it felt redundant! I really didn't need to hear 20 times that the vamps can't stand each other, or the many body parts that bleed!

That being said I loved how Nina decided that she didn't want to be an "ordinary" vampire who didn't do anything. I was happy to see a couple of them like Nina and Dave actually being proactive about their situation. I thought it was a bit far fetched that they would want to "reform" the man who wanted to kill them all...vampires don't like violence...call me crazy but I missed the crazy, butt kicking vamp's from other series!

It does give an interesting spin to vampirism...just not what I would have expected. I know this review is lame...but hopefully over time I'll get better!

I liked this book...just didn't love it! If you read it, let me know what you think!

The City of Bones

2010-09-18T19:49:00.001-07:00

One of my most favorite books by far! This was the first book I read after Eclipse...I was looking for something to fill the void and boy did I get it! I must confess that I have read it several times and I have LOVED it as much each time as I did the first. This is a definate Science Fiction book...but it is worth the read!

Clary is a 15 year old girl who witnesses a murder by three teens who are covered in strange tatoos and use strange weapons as well. Before she has a chance to call the police the body mysteriously disappears, and no one else even saw or heard the murder take place. The teens who are known as the Shadowhunters are equally puzzled as to why Clary can see them. They explain that their mission in life is to rid the earth of demons. In a few short hours Clary's mom disappears and Clary has the fight of her life against a demon. Why would demons be interested in two mundanes like Clary and her mother, and how did Clary suddenly get the sight....everyone would like to know!

Mixed in with all the chaos of demon hunting is romance, friendship, jealousy and an ending that will leave you wondering what in the world just happened...that and there is no way that could ever be true! You will love and hate characters at the same time, and I can promise that Jace will make your heart race! This is the first book in the trilogy and they just keep getting better!

Just because it is science fiction...DON'T WRITE IT OFF! I give this book 5 stars! I promise you will LOVE it!

The Reformed Vampire Support Group

2010-09-18T19:28:00.001-07:00

S0 I started reading this book and I have to say it is rather interesting...not your typical "vampire" book that is for sure! Gather together a group of rag tag vampires who are trying to find out who killed their creator and surely misadventures are sure to follow! I am only half way through, and I have to say it is slow reading for me (not my norm for sure!), maybe it's because I only have had time to read when I am dog tired! I will give a full review when I am finished!

In the beginning...

2010-09-18T19:17:00.000-07:00

So I decided with all the books I read maybe I should create a blog about them! That way when people ask me what to read I can refer them to my blog! I will give you a review and recommend too...even if it's something I may not have enjoyed...you might! I will start with what I am reading now, but I will try to review and add books I have already read too! Hope you enjoy this...leave me some love to let me know!