Thanks to Kim @ The Book Butterfly for this one:
Dead to the World (Sookie Stackhouse Series #4) by Charlaine Harris
- Click here for Synopsis
In My Mailbox was created by Kristi @ The Story Siren and inspired by Alea @ Pop Culture Junkie
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Winner of Dreamlife by Lauren Mechling!
The Winner is...
Dreamlife (ARC) by Lauren Mechling
Please email me your address within 48hrs
Thanks to everyone for Participating!
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Review: Incarceron by Catherine Fisher
Incarceron by Catherine Fisher Pub. Date: January 2010
Publisher: Penguin Group (USA)
Format: Hardcover, 448pp
Age Range: Young Adult
A thrilling, high-concept fantasy for fans of Garth Nix and Nancy Farmer.
Incarceron is a prison so vast that it contains not only cells, but also metal forests, dilapidated cities, and vast wilderness. Finn, a seventeen-year-old prisoner, has no memory of his childhood and is sure that he came from Outside Incarceron. Very few prisoners believe that there is an Outside, however, which makes escape seems impossible.
And then Finn finds a crystal key that allows him to communicate with a girl named Claudia. She claims to live Outside- she is the daughter of the Warden of Incarceron, and doomed to an arranged marriage. Finn is determined to escape the prison, and Claudia believes she can help him. But they don't realize that there is more to Incarceron than meets the eye. Escape will take their greatest courage and cost more than they know.
Fisher pulled me into the novel from the beginning. I found myself fascinated by the world of Incarceron whether it was Inside or Outside of the prison. The originality of this book kept me turning the pages, engrossed by the mysteries surrounding Incarceron. With treachery around every corner in Incarceron, you never know what will happen next.
The characters in Incarceron are outstanding. Finn was an intriguing character, stuck in a prison with no memory of how he arrived at Incarceron. Having to risk his life for spoils and riches under a nefarious Winglord, Finn did what he had to do to survive. I found myself sympathizing with how distraught he was over the Comitatus’s cruelty and infighting and his quest to escape Incarceron and find the answers of how he came to be a prisoner. Claudia is the Warden’s daughter and she’s a smart and fearless heroine. She’d do anything to get out of her arranged marriage no matter the costs. The secondary characters are quite interesting too. Fisher did a phenomenal job in pulling me into her world with a great cast of characters and the mysteries surrounding Incarceron.
The writing is impeccable. The plot is fast-paced and it kept me glued to the story down to the very last page. This is one of those books that I will be highly anticipating the sequel. Fisher has acquired a new fan. Readers of fantasy, be prepared to be a prisoner of Incarceron for it surely will keep you locked into its pages in the wee hours of the night.
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
Check out the book trailer!
Winners...Winners!
The Winners of my 700 Followers Contest are...
Jessy - Silver Phoenix by Cindy Pon
Please email me your addresses within 48hrs
Thanks to everyone for Participating!
Friday, January 29, 2010
Winner of All Unquiet Things by Anna Jarzab!
The Winner is...
All Unquiet Things (ARC) by Anna Jarzab
All Unquiet Things (ARC) by Anna JarzabAllison @ Read Into This
Please email me your address within 48hrs.
Thanks to everyone for participating!
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Win The Iron King by Julie Kagawa!
**Contest Closed**
This is your chance to Win... 
The Iron King (Paperback) by Julie Kagawa
Swag: signed bookmarkRules: 1 Winner!
Win The Secret Year by Jennifer Hubbard!
**Contest Closed**
This is your chance to Win... 
The Secret Year (ARC) by Jennifer Hubbard
Swag: signed bookmarkRules: 1 Winner!
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Review: The Iron King by Julie Kagawa
The Iron King by Julie KagawaPub. Date: February 2010
Publisher: Harlequin
Format: Paperback, 368pp
Age Range: Young Adult
Meghan Chase has a secret destiny—one she could never have imagined…
Something has always felt slightly off in Meghan's life, ever since her father disappeared before her eyes when she was six. She has never quite fit in at school…or at home.
When a dark stranger begins watching her from afar, and her prankster best friend becomes strangely protective of her, Meghan senses that everything she's known is about to change.
But she could never have guessed the truth—that she is the daughter of a mythical faery king and is a pawn in a deadly war. Now Meghan will learn just how far she'll go to save someone she cares about, to stop a mysterious evil no faery creature dare face…and to find love with a young prince who might rather see her dead than let her touch his icy heart.
Poor Meghan shipped off to the backwoods of a small town after her father disappeared. She’s not the most popular girl at school but when she’s with her best friend Robbie, the laughs come out. I don’t know how many times I laughed throughout this book. Kagawa’s writing has plenty of humorous dialogue that will have you eating up the pages for more hilarious moments with Meghan and Robbie.
With danger at every turn, The Iron King had me anticipating every heart pounding moment. I loved the twist with the characters from A Midsummer Night's Dream. The faeries were frightening and I couldn’t help but root for Meghan along the way in her journey to get her brother back. The Iron King had so many fantastic characters and among my favorites besides Meghan and Robbie was Grimalkin. Julie managed to capture the essence of what a cat would be like then tacked on spunk and wit to create this awesome character.
The Iron King is a great start to an exciting series with a great cast of characters, romance, and a fast-paced plot with a whirlwind of danger and intrigue that will keep you turning the pages right down to the very last one. I couldn’t get enough of The Iron King and I can’t wait until the sequel, The Iron Daughter hit shelves in August 2010. Readers of all ages will get a kick out of Nevernever land, an exciting and dangerously intoxicating world of faeries.
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
Review: The Secret Year by Jennifer Hubbard
The Secret Year by Jennifer HubbardPub. Date: January 7, 2010
Publisher: Penguin Young Readers Group
Format: Hardcover, 208pp
Age Range: Young Adult
Take Romeo and Juliet. Add The Outsiders. Mix thoroughly. Colt and Julia were secretly together for an entire year, and no one—not even Julia's boyfriend— knew. They had nothing in common, with Julia in her country club world on Black Mountain and Colt from down on the flats, but it never mattered. Until Julia dies in a car accident, and Colt learns the price of secrecy. He can't mourn Julia openly, and he's tormented that he might have played a part in her death. When Julia's journal ends up in his hands, Colt relives their year together at the same time that he's desperately trying to forget her. But how do you get over someone who was never yours in the first place?
The Secret Year is an emotional and compelling debut...
I loved Colt’s personality. I found myself living inside of his head and couldn’t help but be drawn into his emotions about Julia. Hubbard did a great job with the complexity of the characters. His family had me cracking up in one particular scene but it was his sarcasm that had me laughing throughout this book.
Hubbard’s writing drew me in from page 1 and I could not put this book down. This is another one of those books outside of my genre that I was totally surprised by. I found myself engrossed in this book especially trying to discover why Colt felt guilty about the night Julia died. There was no point in this book where I thought, “there’s no way that would happen in real life.” This is one of the reasons I have a hard time crossing over to contemporary novels but Hubbard made a believer out of me.
My heart broke for Colt throughout this book and I appreciated how the story unfolded. I think it allowed me to connect more to Colt and empathize with what he was going through. All I can say is what a great debut by Hubbard and I will definitely be reading more future novels by her.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Sensational 7 Q & A with Julie Kagawa!
Have you ever wanted to know what it would be like to hang out with your favorite author(s)? In an attempt to get a better understanding of authors, my Sensational Seven Q & A takes a closer or more personal look at these authors to give you a glimpse of the personalities behind the writing of your favorite books.
Julie Kagawa was born in Sacramento, California. But nothing exciting really happened to her there. So, at the age of nine she and her family moved to Hawaii, which she soon discovered was inhabited by large carnivorous insects, colonies of house geckos, and frequent hurricanes.
Describe your novel in seven words or less?
Girl must rescue her brother from faeries.
Bonus:
**Is there any additional info you would like to share with your readers about what’s next for you and your books?**
Well, there are two more planned books in The Iron Fey series, The Iron Daughter and The Iron Queen, and after that, who knows? I do plan to keep writing for as long as my fingers keep working, though. Unless I lose them in a horrible chainsaw accident. Hm, but then I could get that voice recognition software and type that way. In any case, I'd find a way to keep writing books, so keep your eyes peeled. I don't plan to go anywhere. ;-)
Thanks Julie for stopping by!
For more information about Julie Kagawa and her books, please visit her website here.
“Talent alone cannot make a writer. There must be a man behind the book; a personality which, by birth and quality, is pledged to the doctrines there set forth, and which exists to see and state things so, and not otherwise.” By Ralph Waldo Emerson
Julie Kagawa was born in Sacramento, California. But nothing exciting really happened to her there. So, at the age of nine she and her family moved to Hawaii, which she soon discovered was inhabited by large carnivorous insects, colonies of house geckos, and frequent hurricanes. Julie now lives in Louisville, Kentucky, where the frequency of shark attacks are at an all time low. She lives with her husband, two obnoxious cats, one Australian Shepherd who is too smart for his own good, and the latest addition, a hyper-active Papillon puppy. Her debut novel, The Iron King is scheduled for release February 1, 2010!
If you were given a chance to travel back in time, what year or place would you go / Why?
Hm, my first choice would be Medieval Japan, around the 1400-1500s. But only if I could be a ninja.
If you were given a chance to travel back in time, what year or place would you go / Why?
Hm, my first choice would be Medieval Japan, around the 1400-1500s. But only if I could be a ninja.
Describe your novel in seven words or less?
Girl must rescue her brother from faeries.
Please share with us about your favorite book and fictional crush to date?
Favorite book? As in, just one? Impossible! J Can I name a (very) few favorites instead? Perfect Chemistry, Poison Study, Lord of the Rings, Bird-by-Bird, Royal Assassin, A Game of Thrones, Song in the Silence, Tithe, The Briar King, The Fox Woman … um, I should stop now.
My fictional crush to date is Poison Study’s Valek, because I have a thing for dark, mysterious assassins (something I should probably tell a shrink about). Valek is cool and dangerous and no one has been able to topple him as of now.
If you could be any character in fiction, whom would you be / Why?
I’m torn between Yelena from Poison Study, because she gets Valak, and Buffy (for obvious reasons).
If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see play the lead role as 
you / Why?
Lucy Liu. Because she is awesome. And Asian. And I love her. :D
If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be – please explain?
Ummmm, I’m not really sure. I’m bad at writing bios and wouldn’t even know where to begin with a biography. But I do know this: the word Gecko would definitely be in the title. :P
How would you describe yourself/life in seven words?
Lover of books, ninja, and video games.
Bonus:**Is there any additional info you would like to share with your readers about what’s next for you and your books?**
Well, there are two more planned books in The Iron Fey series, The Iron Daughter and The Iron Queen, and after that, who knows? I do plan to keep writing for as long as my fingers keep working, though. Unless I lose them in a horrible chainsaw accident. Hm, but then I could get that voice recognition software and type that way. In any case, I'd find a way to keep writing books, so keep your eyes peeled. I don't plan to go anywhere. ;-)
Thanks Julie for stopping by!
For more information about Julie Kagawa and her books, please visit her website here.
Sensational 7 Q & A with Jennifer Hubbard!
Have you ever wanted to know what it would be like to hang out with your favorite author(s)? In an attempt to get a better understanding of authors, my Sensational Seven Q & A takes a closer or more personal look at these authors to give you a glimpse of the personalities behind the writing of your favorite books.
Jennifer R. Hubbard lives and writes in Wyncote, Pennsylvania. The Secret Year is her first book. The Secret Year was released January 7, 2010!
If you were given a chance to travel back in time, what year or place would you go / Why?
I would love to see North America before so much of it was developed, before the rivers were dammed and the original forests were cut. But then, I am grateful for many things we have now that we didn’t always have in the past: antibiotics and women’s rights, to name a couple.
Describe your novel in seven words or less?
I can do it in three: Secrecy, loss, obsession.
Please share with us about your favorite book and fictional crush to date?
I can’t pick just one favorite book. But I currently have an author crush on Neal Shusterman. He did a great job with the dystopic YA novel Unwind, the humorous The Schwa Was Here, and a novel of the possible afterlife, Everlost. I don’t know how he can write so many different kinds of books and make them all so good.
If you could be any character in fiction, whom would you be / Why?
If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see play the lead role as you / Why?
Maybe Jenna Fischer (she plays Pam on The Office). She has a very natural, down-to-earth way about her.
Thanks Jennifer for stopping by!
For more information about Jennifer Hubbard and her books, please visit her website here.
“Talent alone cannot make a writer. There must be a man behind the book; a personality which, by birth and quality, is pledged to the doctrines there set forth, and which exists to see and state things so, and not otherwise.” By Ralph Waldo Emerson
Jennifer R. Hubbard lives and writes in Wyncote, Pennsylvania. The Secret Year is her first book. The Secret Year was released January 7, 2010!If you were given a chance to travel back in time, what year or place would you go / Why?
I would love to see North America before so much of it was developed, before the rivers were dammed and the original forests were cut. But then, I am grateful for many things we have now that we didn’t always have in the past: antibiotics and women’s rights, to name a couple.
Describe your novel in seven words or less?
I can do it in three: Secrecy, loss, obsession.
Please share with us about your favorite book and fictional crush to date?
I can’t pick just one favorite book. But I currently have an author crush on Neal Shusterman. He did a great job with the dystopic YA novel Unwind, the humorous The Schwa Was Here, and a novel of the possible afterlife, Everlost. I don’t know how he can write so many different kinds of books and make them all so good.
If you could be any character in fiction, whom would you be / Why?
I don’t know. Book characters tend to suffer a lot, since their conflicts drive the plot! Would any of us really want to be someone else? It would be fun to have some of their adventures, though. For example, there’s a Sinclair Lewis book called Free Air in which a young woman driv
es across country around 1916—before there were paved interstate highways.
es across country around 1916—before there were paved interstate highways.If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see play the lead role as you / Why?
Maybe Jenna Fischer (she plays Pam on The Office). She has a very natural, down-to-earth way about her.
If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be – please explain?
I have a terrible time coming up with titles. So maybe they should call it The Book with No Name. Or Jennifer R. Hubbard: In Search of a Title.
How would you describe yourself/life in seven words?
Even when I write flash fiction, I can’t yet distill life down to seven words.
Thanks Jennifer for stopping by!For more information about Jennifer Hubbard and her books, please visit her website here.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Monday Madness (29): The Secret Year by Jennifer Hubbard & The Iron King by Julie Kagawa
What is Monday Madness?
It’s the phenomenon affecting all book lovers as we count down the hours in hopes of getting our hands on highly anticipated books on release day. So, come join me throughout the week where I will be featuring Author Interviews, Reviews and Contests for great books.
This week's feature was postponed at Jennifer's request instead of being featured during release week.
The Secret Year by Jennifer Hubbard
Pub. Date: January 7, 2010
Publisher: Penguin Young Readers Group
Format: Hardcover, 208pp
Age Range: Young Adult
Synopsis
Take Romeo and Juliet. Add The Outsiders. Mix thoroughly.
Colt and Julia were secretly together for an entire year, and no one—not even Julia's boyfriend— knew. They had nothing in common, with Julia in her country club world on Black Mountain and Colt from down on the flats, but it never mattered. Until Julia dies in a car accident, and Colt learns the price of secrecy. He can't mourn Julia openly, and he's tormented that he might have played a part in her death. When Julia's journal ends up in his hands, Colt relives their year together at the same time that he's desperately trying to forget her. But how do you get over someone who was never yours in the first place?
Want More?
I will be featuring 3 books released during the first week of February and The Iron King will be featured this week.
The Iron King by Julie Kagawa
Pub. Date: February 2010
Publisher: Harlequin
Format: Paperback, 368pp
Age Range: Young Adult
Publisher: Harlequin
Format: Paperback, 368pp
Age Range: Young Adult
Synopsis
Meghan Chase has a secret destiny—one she could never have imagined…
Something has always felt slightly off in Meghan's life, ever since her father disappeared before her eyes when she was six. She has never quite fit in at school…or at home.
When a dark stranger begins watching her from afar, and her prankster best friend becomes strangely protective of her, Meghan senses that everything she's known is about to change.
But she could never have guessed the truth—that she is the daughter of a mythical faery king and is a pawn in a deadly war. Now Meghan will learn just how far she'll go to save someone she cares about, to stop a mysterious evil no faery creature dare face…and to find love with a young prince who might rather see her dead than let her touch his icy heart.
Want More?
Take a Sneak Peek at The Iron King here.
Sunday, January 24, 2010
In My Mailbox (36)
- Click here for Synopsis
Book Swap with Yan @ Books By Their Cover - Thank You!
Molly Fyde and the Land of Light by Hugh Howey
*Spoilers*
- Click here for Synopsis
- Click here for Synopsis
In My Mailbox was created by Kristi @ The Story Siren and inspired by Alea @ Pop Culture Junkie
Winners...Winners!
The Winners are...
Captivate (ARC) by Carrie Jones
CherylS22
Firespell (Signed) by Chloe Neill & Swag
Mardel @Rabid Reader
Please email me your addresses within 48hrs.
Thanks to everyone for participating!
Friday, January 22, 2010
Review: Chasing Brooklyn by Lisa Schroeder
Chasing Brooklyn by Lisa SchroederPub. Date: January 2010
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
Format: Hardcover, 412pp
Age Range: Young Adult
Restless souls and empty hearts
Brooklyn can't sleep. Her boyfriend, Lucca, died only a year ago, and now her friend Gabe has just died of an overdose. Every time she closes her eyes, Gabe's ghost is there waiting for her. She has no idea what he wants or why it isn't Lucca visiting her dreams.
Nico can't stop. He's always running, trying to escape the pain of losing his brother, Lucca. But when Lucca's ghost begins leaving messages, telling Nico to help Brooklyn, emotions come crashing to the surface.
As the nightmares escalate and the messages become relentless, Nico reaches out to Brooklyn. But neither of them can admit that they're being haunted. Until they learn to let each other in, not one soul will be able to rest.
This novel produced a lot of firsts for me:
· First novel that I’ve read in verse – Schroeder’s writing is powerful and captivating in verse format. Her writing has a way of drawing you in and capturing your heart. Some of my favorite lines were arranged so uniquely as if the words made you feel like the characters’ emotions were jumping off the pages.
· First novel I’ve read by Lisa Schroeder – Chasing Brooklyn is the first novel of Schroeder’s that I’ve read and I will most definitely be reading her first 2 novels, I Heart You, You Haunt Me and Far From You. I’ve heard so many great things about her previous works and if they’re anything like Chasing Brooklyn, I’m sure I’ll be up for an emotional rollercoaster of reads.
· First novel of the year that’s brought tears to my eyes - This novel is beautifully written, inspirational, and heartbreaking. Told in alternating view points by Brooklyn and Nico, I found myself emotionally drawn into their struggles to cope with the loss of Lucca. This is one of those books that will stay close to my heart.
· First supernatural novel of the year to receive 5 stars from me - I absolutely loved this book! This novel will entice readers of all ages looking for a powerful and haunting read dealing with love, loss, and healing. I can’t wait to see what Schroeder comes up with next.
· First novel that I’ve read in verse – Schroeder’s writing is powerful and captivating in verse format. Her writing has a way of drawing you in and capturing your heart. Some of my favorite lines were arranged so uniquely as if the words made you feel like the characters’ emotions were jumping off the pages.
· First novel I’ve read by Lisa Schroeder – Chasing Brooklyn is the first novel of Schroeder’s that I’ve read and I will most definitely be reading her first 2 novels, I Heart You, You Haunt Me and Far From You. I’ve heard so many great things about her previous works and if they’re anything like Chasing Brooklyn, I’m sure I’ll be up for an emotional rollercoaster of reads.
· First novel of the year that’s brought tears to my eyes - This novel is beautifully written, inspirational, and heartbreaking. Told in alternating view points by Brooklyn and Nico, I found myself emotionally drawn into their struggles to cope with the loss of Lucca. This is one of those books that will stay close to my heart.
· First supernatural novel of the year to receive 5 stars from me - I absolutely loved this book! This novel will entice readers of all ages looking for a powerful and haunting read dealing with love, loss, and healing. I can’t wait to see what Schroeder comes up with next.
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Win The Mark & Swag by Jen Nadol!
**Contest Closed**
This is your chance to Win...
The Mark (ARC) by Jen Nadol
Swag: signed bookmark, a glowing pen & The Mark notepad.Rules: 1 Winner!
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Review: The Mark by Jen Nadol
The Mark by Jen Nadol Pub. Date: January 19, 2010
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA
Format: Hardcover, 240pp
Cassandra Renfield has always seen the mark—a glow around certain people reminiscent of candlelight. But the one time she mentioned it, it was dismissed as a trick of the light. Until the day she watches a man awash in the mark die. After searching her memories, Cassie realizes she can see a person’s imminent death. Not how or where, only when: today.
Armed with a vague understanding of the light, Cassie begins to explore her “gift,” seeking those marked for death and probing the line between decision and destiny. Though she’s careful to hide her secret—even from her new philosophy-obsessed boyfriend—with each impending death comes the temptation to test fate. But so many questions remain. How does the mark work? Why is she the only one who sees it? And finally, the
most important of all: If you know today is someone’s last, should you tell them?
A spellbinding page turner, The Mark will have readers hooked to Cassie’s journey from the first page…
Cassie Renfield is about to get the wakeup call of her life when understanding finally dawns on her about her new gift to see the mark. As she struggles to process the events leading up to the death of a man marked, now she’s questioning if she could have prevented the death using her ability.
Nadol did a spectacular job keeping me drawn into Cassie’s anguished search for answers about her ability and choices on whether she should use it to help others. What a powerful ability to have and I found myself sympathizing with Cassie throughout her journey. Given an ability to change one’s fate has to be hard and I can’t imagine being in Cassie’s shoes with the choices she has to make. This book really had me thinking what if this was me?
Nadol’s powerful debut should entice readers of all ages. The Mark exceeded my expectations and when the mysteries surrounding Cassie’s ability where revealed, let’s jus t say I can’t wait to see if there will be a sequel.
Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars
Nadol did a spectacular job keeping me drawn into Cassie’s anguished search for answers about her ability and choices on whether she should use it to help others. What a powerful ability to have and I found myself sympathizing with Cassie throughout her journey. Given an ability to change one’s fate has to be hard and I can’t imagine being in Cassie’s shoes with the choices she has to make. This book really had me thinking what if this was me?
Nadol’s powerful debut should entice readers of all ages. The Mark exceeded my expectations and when the mysteries surrounding Cassie’s ability where revealed, let’s jus t say I can’t wait to see if there will be a sequel.
Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Sensational 7 Q & A with Jen Nadol!
Have you ever wanted to know what it would be like to hang out with your favorite author(s)? In an attempt to get a better understanding of authors, my Sensational Seven Q & A takes a closer or more personal look at these authors to give you a glimpse of the personalities behind the writing of your favorite books.
Jen Nadol grew up in Reading, Pennsylvania, the hometown of John Updike, Taylor Swift, and the now-defunct Monopoly railroad. She has a BA in literature from American University and has lived in Washington DC, Boston, and New York City. She currently resides in a 150-year-old farmhouse in Westchester County, New York, with her husband and three young sons and is at work on her next two related novels. She has no paranormal abilities and is pretty happy about that. The Mark is in stores today!
If you were given a chance to travel back in time, what year or place would you go / Why?
Probably early New York City. It’d be so fascinating to see Manhattan as mostly farmland and walk around when it was just a little town, with a real wall on Wall Street and stuff. Or maybe go a little later and check out the Astors' and Rockfellers' mansions before they got turned into clubs or stores. Assuming they invited me in, of course.
Describe your novel in seven words or less?
Should you tell someone today’s their last?
**Is there any additional info you would like to share with your readers about what’s next for you and your books?**
My second book, working title: VISION, is completed and on submission to myeditor now. Keep your fingers crossed for me!
Thanks Jen for stopping by!
For more information about Jen Nadol and her books, please visit her website here.
“Talent alone cannot make a writer. There must be a man behind the book; a personality which, by birth and quality, is pledged to the doctrines there set forth, and which exists to see and state things so, and not otherwise.” By Ralph Waldo Emerson
Jen Nadol grew up in Reading, Pennsylvania, the hometown of John Updike, Taylor Swift, and the now-defunct Monopoly railroad. She has a BA in literature from American University and has lived in Washington DC, Boston, and New York City. She currently resides in a 150-year-old farmhouse in Westchester County, New York, with her husband and three young sons and is at work on her next two related novels. She has no paranormal abilities and is pretty happy about that. The Mark is in stores today!If you were given a chance to travel back in time, what year or place would you go / Why?
Probably early New York City. It’d be so fascinating to see Manhattan as mostly farmland and walk around when it was just a little town, with a real wall on Wall Street and stuff. Or maybe go a little later and check out the Astors' and Rockfellers' mansions before they got turned into clubs or stores. Assuming they invited me in, of course.
Describe your novel in seven words or less?
Should you tell someone today’s their last?
Please share with us about your favorite book and fictional crush to date?
So many favorite books – The Stand, The Last Ship, White Oleander, A Prayer for Owen Meany, The Secret History…these are just some off the top of my head. There are probably about twenty others.
Most of what I read doesn’t have a strong romance element so a fictional crush is pretty tough. It would definitely be on a Mr. Darcy type – that serious, smart, sort-of-superior kind of guy.
If you could be any character in fiction, whom would you be / Why?
Without spending days thinking about it – because this’d really be kind of a big decision - I’m going to go with Frannie Goldsmith from The Stand. There’s something appealing about starting all over again and by the end of the book, she’s got a pretty good set-up.
If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see play the lead role as
you /Why?
I’ve always liked Winona Ryder and she hasn’t gotten much work since she got caught shoplifting (NB: we look nothing alike)
If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be – please explain?
STOP FIGHTING! Spend a day with my three kids and this will need no explanation.
How would you describe yourself/life in seven words?
Busy, happy and very, very, very fortunate.
**Is there any additional info you would like to share with your readers about what’s next for you and your books?**
My second book, working title: VISION, is completed and on submission to myeditor now. Keep your fingers crossed for me!
Thanks Jen for stopping by!
For more information about Jen Nadol and her books, please visit her website here.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Monday Madness (28): The Mark by Jen Nadol
What is Monday Madness?
It’s the phenomenon affecting all book lovers as we count down the hours in hopes of getting our hands on highly anticipated books on release day. So, come join me throughout the week where I will be featuring Author Interviews, Reviews and Contests for great books.
The Mark by Jen Nadol
Pub. Date: January 19, 2010
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA
Format: Hardcover, 240pp
Synopsis
Cassandra Renfield has always seen the mark—a glow around certain people reminiscent of candlelight. But the one time she mentioned it, it was dismissed as a trick of the light. Until the day she watches a man awash in the mark die. After searching her memories, Cassie realizes she can see a person’s imminent death. Not how or where, only when: today.
Armed with a vague understanding of the light, Cassie begins to explore her “gift,” seeking those marked for death and probing the line between decision and destiny. Though she’s careful to hide her secret—even from her new philosophy-obsessed boyfriend—with each impending death comes the temptation to test fate. But so many questions remain. How does the mark work? Why is she the only one who sees it? And finally, the most important of all: If you know today is someone’s last, should you tell them?
Want More?
Sunday, January 17, 2010
In My Mailbox (35)
For Review
Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins
Pub. Date: March 02, 2010
Publisher: Hyperion Books for Children
Format: Hardcover, 336pp
Age Range: Young Adult
Synopsis
Three years ago, Sophie Mercer discovered that she was a witch. It's gotten her into a few scrapes. Her non-gifted mother has been as supportive as possible, consulting Sophie's estranged father-an elusive European warlock-only when necessary. But when Sophie attracts too much human attention for a prom-night spell gone horribly wrong, it's her dad who decides her punishment: exile to Hex Hall, an isolated reform school for wayward Prodigium, a.k.a. witches, faeries, and shapeshifters.
By the end of her first day among fellow freak-teens, Sophie has quite a scorecard: three powerful enemies who look like supermodels, a futile crush on a gorgeous warlock, a creepy tagalong ghost, and a new roommate who happens to be the most hated person and only vampire on campus. Worse, Sophie soon learns that a mysterious predator has been attacking students, and her only friend is the number-one suspect.
As a series of blood-curdling mysteries starts to converge, Sophie prepares for the biggest threat of all: an ancient secret society determined to destroy all Prodigium, especially her.
In My Mailbox was created by Kristi @ The Story Siren and inspired by Alea @ Pop Culture Junkie
Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins Pub. Date: March 02, 2010
Publisher: Hyperion Books for Children
Format: Hardcover, 336pp
Age Range: Young Adult
Synopsis
Three years ago, Sophie Mercer discovered that she was a witch. It's gotten her into a few scrapes. Her non-gifted mother has been as supportive as possible, consulting Sophie's estranged father-an elusive European warlock-only when necessary. But when Sophie attracts too much human attention for a prom-night spell gone horribly wrong, it's her dad who decides her punishment: exile to Hex Hall, an isolated reform school for wayward Prodigium, a.k.a. witches, faeries, and shapeshifters.
By the end of her first day among fellow freak-teens, Sophie has quite a scorecard: three powerful enemies who look like supermodels, a futile crush on a gorgeous warlock, a creepy tagalong ghost, and a new roommate who happens to be the most hated person and only vampire on campus. Worse, Sophie soon learns that a mysterious predator has been attacking students, and her only friend is the number-one suspect.
As a series of blood-curdling mysteries starts to converge, Sophie prepares for the biggest threat of all: an ancient secret society determined to destroy all Prodigium, especially her.
In My Mailbox was created by Kristi @ The Story Siren and inspired by Alea @ Pop Culture Junkie
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Guest Post: Clair Voyante - Dream Life by Lauren Mechling
I'm today's stop on Lauren Mechlings Blog Tour for Dream Life, the sequel to Dream Girl. Lauren Mechling is the coauthor of all three 10th-Grade Social Climber books. She has written for the New York Times, Marie Claire, and Seventeen. She lives and writes in New York City. You can visit her at www.laurenmechling.com.************************
Greetings and salutations, book lovers! I’m Claire Voyante, the main character of Dream Life, Lauren Mechling’s rip-roaring detective novel (and no, it is not immodest to say that about a book you didn’t write but in which you star—I checked in one of my grandmother Kiki’s etiquette books).
Dream Life is all about what happened after I found out my best friend Becca 
had just joined a super-exclusive, centuries-old secret society called the Blue Moons. I figured out how to wiggle my way into the club, and, of course, much drama ensued. I warmly invite you to check Dream Life out—it’s available at a bookstore or Internet site near you.
When Dream Girl, the first book in the series, came out, my creator Lauren fielded questions from bloggers and journalists. Lauren is currently underground working on a secret project so I offered to step in and relief pitch. I’m taking a page from Ann Landers's book and writing an advice column. The questions came from fans of the series. The answers came from the heart.
had just joined a super-exclusive, centuries-old secret society called the Blue Moons. I figured out how to wiggle my way into the club, and, of course, much drama ensued. I warmly invite you to check Dream Life out—it’s available at a bookstore or Internet site near you.When Dream Girl, the first book in the series, came out, my creator Lauren fielded questions from bloggers and journalists. Lauren is currently underground working on a secret project so I offered to step in and relief pitch. I’m taking a page from Ann Landers's book and writing an advice column. The questions came from fans of the series. The answers came from the heart.
(Warning: I don't have a degree in psychotherapy--use at your own risk!)
Dear Claire,
I’m about to start high school and there’s a language requirement in ninth grade. You’re half-French, right? I’m sort of torn between studying French and Japanese. I love French fashion and I also love manga.
Thanks,
Tongue-Tied At The End Of Eighth Grade, Detroit
Dear Claire,
I’m about to start high school and there’s a language requirement in ninth grade. You’re half-French, right? I’m sort of torn between studying French and Japanese. I love French fashion and I also love manga.
Thanks,
Tongue-Tied At The End Of Eighth Grade, Detroit
Dear TTATEOEG,
Well, have you ever come to the right source! Not only do I speak fluent French, but my father is a French professor.
Here’s the thing: French is pretty useless. Even I, a card-carrying member of a French family that travels to France every summer, don’t really need it (at least not when I'm wearing my headphones). As far as I can tell, people use French to say things about how everything in America is stupid--and always over the loooooongest sit-down dinners (the French have the drawn-out meal market cornered).
So I vote Japanese. And I don’t even like sushi.
L’amour toujours!
Claire
Well, have you ever come to the right source! Not only do I speak fluent French, but my father is a French professor.
Here’s the thing: French is pretty useless. Even I, a card-carrying member of a French family that travels to France every summer, don’t really need it (at least not when I'm wearing my headphones). As far as I can tell, people use French to say things about how everything in America is stupid--and always over the loooooongest sit-down dinners (the French have the drawn-out meal market cornered).
So I vote Japanese. And I don’t even like sushi.
L’amour toujours!
Claire
Click here for my review a chance to win Dream Life!
Check out the trailer for Dream Life!
Dream Life by Lauren Mechling -- Trailer from Richie Williams on Vimeo.
Review & Contest: Dream Life by Lauren Mechling
Dream Life by Lauren MechlingPub. Date: January 2010
Publisher: Random House Children's Books
Format: Hardcover, 336pp
Age Range: Young Adult
Claire Voyante's first semester at Henry Hudson High School was eventful, to say the least. As she heads into her second semester, things are calming down a bit. But Claire has a few secrets that are getting harder to keep. Her biggest secret of all? The onyx and ivory cameo necklace her grandmother gave her for her 15th birthday. Ever since she started wearing it, her dreams have been coming to her in black and white and turning out to be oddly prophetic.
Becca’s been hanging out with her old prep school friends and never seems to have time for Claire anymore. And soon, Claire discovers why—there’s a secret group of society girls with a mysterious identity. And, turns out, a mysterious enemy who’s out to get them. The second she sniffs out trouble, Claire jumps on the case. But is it someone close to Claire who’s in danger again—or could it be Claire herself whose life is at stake?
In the follow up to Dream Girl, Dream Life takes Claire on another mysterious adventure. Claire’s finally getting a better grip on her abilities with the help of her necklace that her grandmother gave Claire for her birthday. In Dream Life, we get to see Claire’s growth and how she’s better prepared to uncover the meanings of her dreams to help her figure out the clues to solve her latest “Lady Inspector shenanigans” as her grandmother would say.
Among my favorite characters in this series is Claire who continues to be likeable with her smarts and wit. Then there’s Kiki, Claire’s grandmother who’s hilarious. You can always count on her for a laugh. Mechling has a way of tickling your funny bones. Claire and best friend Becca’s friendship is strained from their secrets - Claire with her prophetic dreams and Becca with her secret society.
The secret society’s identity and mission threw me for a loop. I commend Mechling for writing about the achievements of the secret society at their ages. Maybe it’s just me and I need to get out more. I think if I was living in New York especially with all the fashion references, I would be living it up and just having fun. However, I do think that younger teens looking for a light read with plenty of the mystery and glamour of Manhattan high society will appreciate Mechling's satisfying sequel.
**Contest Closed**
Dream Life (ARC) by Lauren Mechling
Rules: 1 Winner!
1. Comment on reviewe +1
2. Link to blog: +1
3. Follow me on Twitter +1
4. Follower : +2
Total = 5 entries
2. Link to blog: +1
3. Follow me on Twitter +1
4. Follower : +2
Total = 5 entries
Contest ends @ midnight (CST) January 30, 2010. U.S. & Canada Residents Only (Sorry!)
Friday, January 15, 2010
Kickin' Off The New Year 700 Followers Contest!
**Contest Closed**
Thanks to my lovely followers, I'm kickin' off the new year with a contest for my Favorite YA Books of 2009.
All of these books received 4.5 or 5 Stars from me!
Bad Girls Don't Die by Alender, Katie
Ballad: The Gathering of Faerie (Books of Faerie, #2) by Stiefvater, Maggie
Beautiful Creatures by Garcia, Kami & Stohl, Margaret
Betrayals (Strange Angels, #2) by Crow, Lili St.
Betraying Season (Leland Sisters, #2) by Doyle, Marissa
Blood Promise (Vampire Academy, #4) by Mead, Richelle
Blue Moon (The Immortals, #2) by Noel, Alyson
Catching Fire (Hunger Games, #2) by Collins, Suzanne
City of Glass (Mortal Instruments, #3) by Cassandra Clare
Darklight (Wondrous Strange, #2) by Livingston, Lesley
Deadly Little Lies (Touch, #2) by Stolarz, Laurie Faria
Eyes Like Stars (The Théâtre Illuminata: Act 1) by Mantchev, Lisa
Fire by Cashore, Kristin
Going Too Far by Echols, Jennifer
Hearts at Stake (The Drake Chronicles, #1) by Harvey, Alyxandra
Hush, Hush by Fitzpatrick, Becca
Ice by Durst, Sarah Beth
If I Stay by Forman, Gayle
Jessica's Guide to Dating on the Dark Side by Fantaskey, Beth
Kissed by an Angel Collector's Edition: Kissed by an Angel; the Power of Love; Soulmates by Chandler, Elizabeth
Molly Fyde and the Parsona Rescue by Howey, Hugh
My Soul to Take by Vincent, Rachel
Perfect Chemistry by Elkeles, Simone
Sea Glass (Glass, #2) by Snyder, Maria
Shiver (The Wolves of Mercy Falls, #1) by Stiefvater, Maggie
Silver Phoenix by Pon, Cindy
Spell Hunter (Faery Rebels, #1) by Anderson, R.J.
Stargazer (Evernight #2) by Claudia Gray
Strange Angels (Strange Angels #1) by, Crow, Lili St.
The Awakening (Darkest Powers, #2) by Armstrong, Kelley
The Dark Divine by Despain, Bree
The Demon's Lexicon (Demons, #1) by Brennan, Sarah Rees
The Devil's Kiss (Billi SanGreal, #1) by Chadda, Sarwat
The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Ryan, Carrie
The Stolen One by Crowley, Suzanne
The Van Alen Legacy (Blue Bloods, #4) by Cruz, Melissa de la
Twenty Boy Summer by Ockler, Sarah **To be eligible you have to comment on what your favorite read of 2009 was**
Rules: 3 Winners - Choose 1 Book! (I know it's hard to choose just 1! :D)
1. Comment - What was your favorite read of 2009? Pick a book from my list that you would like to read/own +12. Follower +2
3. Link to blog +1
Total entries: +4 Contest ends on January 29, 2010 @ midnight (CST). Open to Everyone!
Winners...Winners!
The Winners are...
Deadtown (Signed ARC) by Nancy Holzner
jacabur1
Tangled (ARC) by Carolyn Mackler
Amber Skye @ Reading Addict
Please email me your addresses within 48hrs.
Thanks to everyone for participating!
Thursday, January 14, 2010
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Review: All Unquiet Things by Anna Jarzab
All Unquiet Things by Anna JarzabPub. Date: January 12, 2010
Publisher: Random House Children's Books
Format: Hardcover, 352pp
Age Range: Young Adult
Carly: She was sweet. Smart. Self-destructive. She knew the secrets of Brighton Day School’s most privileged students. Secrets that got her killed.
Neily: Dumped by Carly for a notorious bad boy, Neily didn’t answer the phone call she made before she died. If he had, maybe he could have helped her. Now he can’t get the image of her lifeless body out of his mind.
Audrey: She’s the reason Carly got tangled up with Brighton’s fast crowd in the first place, and now she regrets it—especially since she’s convinced the police have put the wrong person in jail. Audrey thinks the murderer is someone at Brighton, and she wants Neily to help her find out who it is.
As reluctant allies Neily and Audrey dig into their shared past with Carly, her involvement with Brighton’s dark goings-on comes to light. But figuring out how Carly and her killer fit into the twisted drama will force Audrey and Neily to face hard truths about themselves and the girl they couldn’t save.
Riveting in her story telling, Jarzab captures the essence of love and loss and how one life shattering event can have profound effect on loved ones…
I’m a big fan of paranormal/fantasy books and All Unquiet Things is one of those books that reintroduced me to a stunning contemporary novel written beautifully. It’s writing like this that makes me want to venture outside of my favorite genre. I don’t think I could say anything else that best describes how amazing this book is.
Told in alternating viewpoints from Neily and Audrey, Jarzab captured the voices of each character perfectly. The emotions behind each character had me empathizing with the turmoil surrounding Carly’s death and how her down spiral continued to have everlasting effects on Neily and Audrey. I was quite shocked at how quickly Carly’s life took a turn for the worst.
The writing is spectacular its complexity of the characters and the overall flow of the book. Jarzab weaved a compelling story around love, friendship, loss, and mystery. With how each clue unfolded to give us glimpses of Carly’s on-goings, I was left stunned. The pages couldn’t turn fast enough for me. I would recommend this book to everyone. I look forward to reading more of Jarzarb’s books.
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Sensational 7 Q & A with Anna Jarzab!
Have you ever wanted to know what it would be like to hang out with your favorite author(s)? In an attempt to get a better understanding of authors, my Sensational Seven Q & A takes a closer or more personal look at these authors to give you a glimpse of the personalities behind the writing of your favorite books.
Anna Jarzab grew up entirely in the suburbs, first outside of Chicago and then in San Francisco's East Bay area, where All Unquiet Things is set. She graduated from Santa Clara University, earned her Master's degree from the University of Chicago, and currently lives in New York City. All Unquiet Things is in stores today!
If you were given a chance to travel back in time, what year or place would you go / Why?
I don't know that I would go back in time, because messing with the space/time continuum seems like bad mojo to me, but I do often wish, as I'm walking around the streets of New York, that I could go back in time to the days of Edith Wharton and/or the 60s and 70s, just to see what it's like. I'd have to be invisible though. I'd just want to observe, not take part, and I wouldn't want to cause a stir with my contemporary clothing.
Describe your novel in seven words or less?
Two teens solve a friend's murder.
Bonus
“Talent alone cannot make a writer. There must be a man behind the book; a personality which, by birth and quality, is pledged to the doctrines there set forth, and which exists to see and state things so, and not otherwise.” By Ralph Waldo Emerson
Anna Jarzab grew up entirely in the suburbs, first outside of Chicago and then in San Francisco's East Bay area, where All Unquiet Things is set. She graduated from Santa Clara University, earned her Master's degree from the University of Chicago, and currently lives in New York City. All Unquiet Things is in stores today!If you were given a chance to travel back in time, what year or place would you go / Why?
I don't know that I would go back in time, because messing with the space/time continuum seems like bad mojo to me, but I do often wish, as I'm walking around the streets of New York, that I could go back in time to the days of Edith Wharton and/or the 60s and 70s, just to see what it's like. I'd have to be invisible though. I'd just want to observe, not take part, and I wouldn't want to cause a stir with my contemporary clothing.
Describe your novel in seven words or less?
Two teens solve a friend's murder.
Please share with us about your favorite book and fictional crush to date?
Hm, favorite book. I have lots of favorites, books I reread every year, but I guess if I have to choose JUST ONE I'd choose The Pursuit of Love and Love in a Cold Climate by Nancy Mitford (they count as one because they always package them together in one volume!). Nancy Mitford is hilariously funny, and her books have that old English noblesse oblige charm that I love. Her characters are amazingly well-drawn and interesting, and unique, insofar as anything is unique.
As for my fictional crush, I guess maybe I would say Jason from Hey, Nostradamus!, if I'm in the mood to want to save a tortured soul, or Robbie, from Atonement, if I'm in the mood to believe that there are good men in the world.
If you could be any character in fiction, whom would you be / Why?
Hm, I don't know. I'm very literal-minded, so the answer that jumps into my head is, "I like who I am! I wouldn't want to be anyone else because I'd have to give up the good things in my life." Which is not the answer you're looking for. Hm. Maybe Elizabeth Bennet?
Hm, I don't know. I'm very literal-minded, so the answer that jumps into my head is, "I like who I am! I wouldn't want to be anyone else because I'd have to give up the good things in my life." Which is not the answer you're looking for. Hm. Maybe Elizabeth Bennet?
If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see play the lead role as you / Why?
Yikes, please don't make my life into a movie, Hollywood! Again with the literal-mindedness. But maybe Amanda Seyfried? I like her a lot. She doesn't look like me, but I think she's very talented.
If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be – please explain?
This question stumped me for a long time! So much pressure to come up with something exactly right. I'm torn between Loud and Well Hydrated because I am loud (my mother calls me "Decibella", which is really quite clever) and I drink a lot of water, and Really Excited to Be Here!, which is something I stole from a friend and made my own. It's a quasi-ironic title, because I can be really upbeat and friendly and excited a lot of the time, but I am, at heart, a cold, hard cynic.
This question stumped me for a long time! So much pressure to come up with something exactly right. I'm torn between Loud and Well Hydrated because I am loud (my mother calls me "Decibella", which is really quite clever) and I drink a lot of water, and Really Excited to Be Here!, which is something I stole from a friend and made my own. It's a quasi-ironic title, because I can be really upbeat and friendly and excited a lot of the time, but I am, at heart, a cold, hard cynic.
How would you describe yourself/life in seven words?
Polish girl has writery ambitions, makes good.
Bonus **Is there any additional info you would like to share with your readers about what’s next for you and your books?**
All Unquiet Things comes out January 12th! And if you go to my site, there's a bunch of hidden content already up there and more to come. That's the kind of stuff I think is fun, and I'm not sure many people know it's there, but it is!
Thanks Anna for stopping by!
For more information about Anna Jarzab and her books, please visit her website here.
Monday, January 11, 2010
Monday Madness (27): All Unquiet Things by Anna Jarzab
What is Monday Madness?
It’s the phenomenon affecting all book lovers as we count down the hours in hopes of getting our hands on highly anticipated books on release day. So, come join me throughout the week where I will be featuring Author Interviews, Reviews and Contests for great books.
All Unquiet Things by Anna Jarzab
Pub. Date: January 12, 2010
Publisher: Random House Children's Books
Format: Hardcover, 352pp
Age Range: Young Adult
Synopsis
Carly: She was sweet. Smart. Self-destructive. She knew the secrets of Brighton Day School’s most privileged students. Secrets that got her killed.
Neily: Dumped by Carly for a notorious bad boy, Neily didn’t answer the phone call she made before she died. If he had, maybe he could have helped her. Now he can’t get the image of her lifeless body out of his mind.
Audrey: She’s the reason Carly got tangled up with Brighton’s fast crowd in the first place, and now she regrets it—especially since she’s convinced the police have put the wrong person in jail. Audrey thinks the murderer is someone at Brighton, and she wants Neily to help her find out who it is.
As reluctant allies Neily and Audrey dig into their shared past with Carly, her involvement with Brighton’s dark goings-on comes to light. But figuring out how Carly and her killer fit into the twisted drama will force Audrey and Neily to face hard truths about themselves and the girl they couldn’t save.
All Unquiet Things Book Trailer
Want More?
Take a Sneak Peek of the first chapter of All Unquiet Things here.
Order All Unquiet Things @ Amazon, Barnes and Noble or Borders
Order All Unquiet Things @ Amazon, Barnes and Noble or Borders
Sunday, January 10, 2010
In My Mailbox (34)
Shadow (ARC) by Jenny Moss
- Click here for Synopsis
Radiant Shadows (ARC) by Melissa Marr
- Click here for Synopsis
Jekel Loves Hyde (ARC) by Beth Fantaskey
- Click here for Synopsis
Bought
My Soul to Save by Rachel Vincent
- Click here for Synopsis
The Uglies Box Set by Scott Westerfeld
- Click here for Synopsis
Books 4 - 7 of The Black Dagger Brotherhood Series by J.R. Ward
- Click here for Synopsis
Shades of Midnight ( Midnight Breed, #7) by Lara Adrian
- Click here for Synopsis
Christmas Gift from Kim @ The Book Butterfly
Covet by J.R. Ward
- Click here for Synopsis
In My Mailbox was created by Kristi @ The Story Siren and inspired by Alea @ Pop Culture Junkie
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