Winners of Valentine Contest!

The Winners are...

Hearts at Stake by Alyxandra Harvey

Bere

Alexa @ Hooked on YA Books

Please email me your addresses within 48hrs.

Thanks to everyone for participating!

Win Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver!

**Contest Closed**

This is your chance to Win...

Before I Fall (ARC) by Lauren Oliver

Rules: 1 Winner!

1. Comment on Interview here: +1
2. Comment on Review here: +1
3. Link to blog: +1
4. Follow me on Twitter +1
5. Follower : +2

Total = 6 entries

Contest ends @ midnight (CST) March 12, 2010. U.S. & Canada Residents Only (Sorry!)

**If you are an international resident and have someone in the states that I could mail the prize to, then you can enter the contest**

Win Forget-Her-Nots by Amy Brecount White!

**Contest Closed**

This is your chance to Win...

Forget-Her-Nots (ARC) by Amy Brecount White

Swag: signed bookmarks

Rules: 1 Winner!

1. Comment on Interview here: +1
2. Comment on Review here: +1
3. Link to blog: +1
4. Follow me on Twitter +1
5. Follower : +2

Total = 6 entries

Contest ends @ midnight (CST) March 11, 2010. U.S. & Canada Residents Only (Sorry!)

**If you are an international resident and have someone in the states that I could mail the prize to, then you can enter the contest**

Review: Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver
Pub. Date: March 02, 2010
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Format: Hardcover, 480pp
Age Range: Young Adult

What if you had only one day to live? What would you do? Who would you kiss? And how far would you go to save your own life?

Samantha Kingston has it all: the world’s most crush-worthy boyfriend, three amazing best friends, and first pick of everything at Thomas Jefferson High, from the best table in the cafeteria to the choicest parking spot. Friday, February 12 should be just another day in her charmed life.

Instead, it turns out to be her last. Fortunately, she gets a second chance. Seven chances, in fact. Reliving her last day during one miraculous week, she will untangle the mystery surrounding her death—and discover the true value of everything she is in danger of losing.

Lauren Oliver pulled me into Before I Fall from page one and left me speechless by the end. I could not put it down! Reading from Samantha’s viewpoint had me reflecting back on my days in high school and I found myself wondering if I would want to change or do anything differently. Of course I would. Samantha’s clique was amongst the popular crowd and there were times I thought they were just plain mean but then again I can’t believe I’m saying this – It happens everywhere. Someone is always getting laughed at or made to be the butt of a joke. I know it doesn’t make it right but I could totally relate to Samantha. This is one of the reasons I fell in love with Before I Fall. I lived through Samantha’s eyes and couldn’t help but empathize with her the whole time.

Lauren took me on a rollercoaster of emotional rides throughout her narrative. There were times when I found myself upset, laughing, and crying while reading this book. The characters in this book are beyond realistic. There were times when Samantha would mention someone and it would remind me of people I knew high school with some of the same characteristics.

I realized as I’m writing this review that I can’t write about all the amazing things that I love about Before I Fall. Lauren’s writing is awe-inspiring. I loved this book from beginning to end. This is a novel that I will have no problems recommending to others. Before I Fall is a beautifully written page turner with lively characters who draw you into the deepest depth of their lives then forces you to take notice - you’ll find yourself not wanting to come up for air.

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Review: Forget-Her-Nots by Amy Brecount White

Forget-Her-Nots by Amy Brecount White
Pub. Date: March 02, 2010
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Format: Hardcover, 384pp
Age Range: 12

Something—some power—is blooming inside Laurel. She can use flowers to do things. Like bringing back lost memories. Or helping her friends ace tests. Or making people fall in love.

Laurel suspects her newfound ability has something to do with an ancient family secret, one that her mother meant to share with Laurel when the time was right. But then time ran out.

Clues and signs and secret messages seem to be all around Laurel at Avondale School, where her mother had also boarded as a student. Can Laurel piece everything together quickly enough to control her power, which is growing more potent every day? Or will she set the stage for the most lovestruck, infamous prom in the history of the school?

After her mother’s death, Laurel Whelan is forced to enroll in a new school, something which leaves her feeling even more like an outsider. Life takes even more of an unexpected turn when a mysterious bouquet arrives at her door and causes magic to bloom all around her. Laurel soon tries to figure out the mysteries surrounding the flowers and their special effects on people. Through the language of flowers, Laurel finds comfort in this ability to stay connected to her mom and is further compelled to help those around her with her newfound abilities.

I enjoyed following along with Laurel as she learned how to magically influence the lives of people around her. I also enjoyed reading the flashback scenes with her mom, something which I found to be quite endearing. Her feats and blunders with the other students were quite amusing and helped make this book a fun and entertaining read.

Learning about all the different meanings of flowers was a nice surprise for me. Amy Brecount White did a great job tying it into the story to make Forget-Her-Nots a truly compelling read. Not being a flower person, I never thought I would be interested in learning the meanings behind flowers, but after I finished the novel, I found myself online researching the meanings behind them! Forget-Her-Nots is a very unique and original premise that pulled me deeper into its magical language as the pages turned.

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Sensational 7 Q & A with Lauren Oliver!

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.

“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

Lauren Oliver was previously an editorial assistant at a publishing company in New York. A graduate of the University of Chicago and the MFA program at New York University, she is now a full-time writer and lives in Brooklyn, New York. Her favorite things include: underlining and making notes in the margins of her favorite books; cooking for good friends; running in Prospect Park; lingering in farmer’s markets; coffee; and ketchup. Before I Fall is scheduled for release March 2, 2010.

If you were given a chance to travel back in time, what year or place would you go / Why?
I would probably choose to go to Paris or New York in the early 1920s, and not just because I like fringe and flapper dresses. There was a kind of cultural explosion after the first world war, I think, in which young artists were trying to make sense of the horrors that had been perpetrated and the society they had felt was in dissolution. Hemingway, Fitzgerald, Gertrude Stein, T.S. Eliot, Virginia Woolf—not to mention painters like Picasso and Matisse—were all busy redefining the rules of art and literature, and I just think it would have been a tremendously exciting/inspiring time to be alive. They didn’t have twitter back then, but I would have surely found a way to stalk my favorite writers nonetheless.

Additionally, the 1920s were pretty good to outspoken, fun-loving, independent women, unlike pretty much every single other era in Western history.

Describe your novel in seven words or less?
Samantha Kingston’s final chance to make meaning.

Please share with us about your favorite book and fictional crush to date?
Well, my fictional crush is, has always been, and will always be Darcy in Pride and Prejudice. Swoon.

My favorite book? I’m not sure I have one. I have always loved Matilda, by Roald Dahl. I am a huge James Joyce and F. Scott Fitzgerald fan, and I love One Hundred Years of Solitude as well. My favorite book might be Alphabears, a gorgeous picture book, now long out of print, that my mother used to read to me as a child. Very mature, I know.

If you could be any character in fiction, whom would you be / Why?
Um, Elizabeth Bennet. See above. What is infuriating is that my sister was actually named after Elizabeth, inspiring years of name-envy on my part.

If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see play the lead role as you / Why?
Natalie Portman, because I wish I were that pretty! Kidding, kidding. Probably Uma Thurman. She’s older than I am, obviously, but she’s a great actress and, importantly, she has a lot of range. I have many contradictory and bizarre aspects to my personality, so that would be incredibly important.

If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be – please explain?
Fiercely, and With Passion. It may sound cheesy, but I try to apply that philosophy to everything in my life, from my career, to my friendships and relationships, to my hobbies, to my sleep time!

How would you describe yourself/life in seven words?
Always evolving. Trouble, in a good way. ;)


Bonus:

**Is there any additional info you would like to share with your readers about what’s next for you and your books?**
As for additional things I’d like to share…look for a second book from me in 2011! (And many more to follow that one, I hope!).

Thanks Lauren for stopping by!

For more information about Lauren Oliver and her books, please visit her website here.

Sensational 7 Q & A with Amy Brecount White!

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.

“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

Amy Brecount White has taught English literature and writing to middle school and high school students. She has written numerous articles and essays for publications such as the Washington Post, but Forget-Her-Nots is her first novel. She can often be found in her garden and gives flowers to her friends and family whenever she can, though none have had magical effects—yet. Amy Brecount White lives with her family in Arlington, Virginia. Forget-Her-Nots is scheduled for release March 2, 2010.

If you were given a chance to travel back in time, what year or place would you go / Why?
That would depend on which social class I could be and which sex. Some people had really tough lives, especially the women, but I wouldn't want to be a man. It would be fun to be an upper class woman in Regency England and go to balls. It would be great to be one of those strong, creative women spy-types in the American Revolution who helped to overthrow the Redcoats, too.

Describe your novel in seven words or less?
Delightful, magical, moving, poetic, fun, and romantic.

Please share with us about your favorite book and fictional crush to date?
Favorite book is Persuasion by Jane Austen or Graceling by Kristin Cashore. And I have two fictional crushes (that I didn't write myself): Nat in The WItch of Blackbird Pond (Elizabeth Speare) and Wes in The Truth about Forever (Sarah Dessen.) Love 'em!

If you could be any character in fiction, whom would you be / Why?
It would be great fun to be Elizabeth Bennet in Pride and Prejudice, and I wouldn't mind being married to Mr. Darcy or being mistress of Pemberley. I'd have amazing gardens!

If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see play the lead role as you / Why?
Definitely Drew Barrymore. I think she's had a fascinating career and that she's a thoughtful woman and fun to watch. I loved the movie EVER AFTER -- her take on Cinderella! See it if you haven't! She has a movie company too, so if she ever wanted to do FORGET-HER-NOTS ....

If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be – please explain?
A Perennial Bloomer. A perennial flower may take awhile to establish its roots, but keeps coming back year after year and can bloom more beautifully with the passage of time. It took me awhile to get all the lovely words just right in FORGET-HER-NOTS, but I hope it will continue to bloom for many readers.

How would you describe yourself/life in seven words?
Hectic, beautiful (as in full of beauty), fulfilling, surprising, fun, focused, and energetic!


Bonus:

**Is there any additional info you would like to share with your readers about what’s next for you and your books?**
I'm working on a new novel called STRING THEORIES that has nothing to do with flowers. But I do hope to write a companion novel to FHN one of these years ....

Thanks so much for having me, Tina!

Thanks Amy for stopping by!

For more information about Amy Brecount White and her books, please visit her website here.

As part of Amy's Spread the Flower Love Blog Tour, I've chosen to represent Wisteria.

These flowers symbolize playfulness and adventure. I love what this flower symbolizes as it relates to my personality. People tell me that I'm always laughing or cracking jokes about something. I love love adventure. When I was younger you could always catch me in la la land. Everyday was an adventure for me and my sister where we would go hiking or trying out new stunts (dangerous now that I reflect on it). Nowadays, I tend to live out my adventures through reading.

Monday Madness (31) Forget-Her-Nots by Amy Brecount White & Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

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.

Forget-Her-Nots by Amy Brecount White
Pub. Date: March 02, 2010
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Format: Hardcover, 384pp
Age Range: 12

Synopsis
Something—some power—is blooming inside Laurel. She can use flowers to do things. Like bringing back lost memories. Or helping her friends ace tests. Or making people fall in love.

Laurel suspects her newfound ability has something to do with an ancient family secret, one that her mother meant to share with Laurel when the time was right. But then time ran out.

Clues and signs and secret messages seem to be all around Laurel at Avondale School, where her mother had also boarded as a student. Can Laurel piece everything together quickly enough to control her power, which is growing more potent every day? Or will she set the stage for the most lovestruck, infamous prom in the history of the school?

Want More?

Take a Sneak Peek of Forget-Her-Nots here.

Order Forget-Her-Nots @ Amazon, Barnes and Noble or Borders

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver
Pub. Date: March 02, 2010
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Format: Hardcover, 480pp
Age Range: Young Adult

Synopsis
What if you had only one day to live? What would you do? Who would you kiss? And how far would you go to save your own life?

Samantha Kingston has it all: the world’s most crush-worthy boyfriend, three amazing best friends, and first pick of everything at Thomas Jefferson High, from the best table in the cafeteria to the choicest parking spot. Friday, February 12 should be just another day in her charmed life.

Instead, it turns out to be her last.

Fortunately, she gets a second chance. Seven chances, in fact. Reliving her last day during one miraculous week, she will untangle the mystery surrounding her death—and discover the true value of everything she is in danger of losing.

Want More?

Read the Prologue of Before I Fall here.

Order Before I Fall @ Amazon, Barnes and Noble or Borders

Want More? Head over to The Book Butterfly on Tantalizing Tuesday for a special treat!

Winner of A Match Made in High School Prize Pack!

This winner is ...

Prize Pack includes:

• A Match Made in High School (signed) by Kristin Waker
• shirt
• megaphone
• bookmarks
• pencils
• engagement ring
• gum
• Post-it matchbook

Dahlia

Please email me your address within 48hrs

Thanks to everyone for participating!

Winner of Possessed by Kate Cann!

The Winner is...

Possessed (ARC) by Kate Cann

Haleyknitz

Please email me your address within 48hrs.

Thanks to everyone for Participating!

Be Back Soon...

This week is break week for me. I'll post winners of Possessed by Kate Cann and A Match Made in High School by Kristin Walker later this week after the contests end. Monday Madness with Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver and Forget Her Nots by Amy Brecount White will be featured next week.

Stay tuned...

The Winner of The Iron King by Julie Kagawa!

This winner is...

The Iron King (Paperback) by Julie Kagawa

Swag: signed bookmark

Natalie @Mindful Musings

Please email me your address within 48hrs.

Thanks to everyone for participating!

Valentine Contest! Hearts at Stake by Alyxandra Harvey

**Contest Closed**

This is your chance to win...

Hearts at Stake by Alyxandra Harvey

**In order to be eligible answer this question:

Name your favorite romance book(s)?

Rules: 2 Winners!

Extra Entries:

1. Comment on Interview with the Drakes here: +1
2. Comment on Review here: +1
3. Link to blog: +1
4. Follow me on Twitter +1
5. Follower : +2

Total = 7 entries

Contest ends @ midnight (CST) February 26, 2010. U.S. & Canada Residents Only (Sorry!)
**If you are an international resident and have someone in the states that I could mail the prize to, then you can enter the contest**

Winner of The Secret Year by Jennifer Hubbard!

The Winner is...

The Secret Year (ARC) by Jennifer Hubbard

Swag: Signed Bookmark

Stacy @ Wicked Walker

Please email me your address within 48 hrs

Thanks to everyone for participating!

Blog Tour: Valentine With Bite! Hearts at Stake by Alyxandra Harvey

Today, I have the privilege of sitting down to chat with the characters of Alyxandra Harvey's Hearts at Stake.

ALYXANDRA HARVEY studied creative writing and literature at York University and has had her poetry published in several magazines. When not writing, she is a belly dancer and jewelrymaker. She lives in Ontario, with her husband, hawk, and two dogs. Websites: http://www.alyxandraharvey.com/ http://www.heartsatstake.com/

Helena can you please introduce your sons to the readers for those of us who are a bit confused on their ages?

Sebastian, 23. He's the eldest and is spending most of his time patrolling lately.

Marcus, 22. He has a scientific bent and is starting to disappear into Geoffrey's lab. I should probably worry. Geoffrey has a habit of blowing things up.

Duncan, 21. He is very private.

Quinn, 19, twin. I worry some girl is going to stake him. He's far too enamored with a pretty face. Definitely the "bad boy" of the bunch.

Connor, 19, twin. Connor prefers to stay in the background and he's brilliant with computers. Has a few too many posters of Amazons and space princesses in metal bras, but I'll overlook it.

Logan, 18. He's my charming boy, born in the wrong century.

Nicholas, 17. Such a serious one. He worries over Solange and Lucy. The most stubborn of my boys, I think, besides Sebastian.

So Solange, how do you feel about being in a house with 7 brothers what annoys you the most about them?

All I can say is thank God they live in the attic. If I had to share a bathroom with them, things would get desperate!

Solange, what were you most afraid of or looking forward to about your transformation?

I'm scared I might not survive it, or that I might not be "me" if I do come through it okay. Mostly, I'm just scared one of my brothers will do something stupidly heroic to protect me and get himself staked.

On the hand, I'll be glad I'm not the only human left in the house. And to have the supernatural strength to take on those bounty hunters and assassins myself!

Nicholas, if you don’t mind answering this question, what do you like best about Lucy?

No comment. Seriously. One of my brothers might read this and then I'll never hear the end of it!

So Logan, we hear that you’re the star in Blood Feud, can you tell us anything more?

Getting mud and blood out of a frock coat is not easy! Those things are expensive. Also, French girls are hot.

Mr. & Mrs. Drake how do you cope with the dangers surrounding your kids especially with the latest turn of events in Hearts at Stake?

Liam Drake: Along with extensive security personnel, we teach them to be careful and look after each other. And to seek out compromise instead of leaping into every fight without looking.

Helena Drake: Speak for yourself, sweetheart. I taught them a clean right hook and fourteen ways to kill a feral vampire with a wooden chopstick.

Quinn, some readers tend to think of you as the “bad boy” of the group, are they correct in assuming this?

Hell, yeah! What's the point of being a vampire if you can't have a little fun? And girls these days really like vampires. Just saying.

Hyacinth, what do you find the most difficult about assimilating into today's modern world?

There isn't a decent cup of tea to be had for miles. And I daily lament the tragedy of curtsying and bowing being out of fashion. It's such a civilized greeting. And in my day we had household servants in bloodthrall. It did make things easier. I understand it's frowned upon now. Pity.

This question is for anyone of the brothers - what’s your status on dating human girls?

Logan: Don't. It's too complicated and dangerous.

Nicholas: It's not without its pitfalls. But some girls are just worth it.

Quinn: Girls are hot. Vampire, human, whatever.

Connor: My twin brother Quinn doesn't make it easy. When he was fifteen, before his bloodchange, he used to break up with girls and leave me with the clean up. He never told them he was a twin so I was the one they yelled at when they saw me in town, minding my own business!

Quinn: I don't do that anymore! Dude, you'll scare them away.

This question can be answered by anyone, do you have any future plans that you would like to share with your readers?

Solange: I am not about to let anyone else in my family get hurt because of this stupid prophecy. Just as soon as I get this bloodchange and bloodlust under control, I'm kicking some butt!

Thanks Alyx!

For more information about Alyxandra Harvey and her books, please visit here website here.

Cover Alert! Book 3 in the Hunger Games Series!!

Scholastic just released the cover of the 3rd book in The Hunger Games Series!

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Publisher: Scholastic Press

Release Date: August 24, 2010
400pgs

So, What do you think?

I love how the Mockingjay's wings are spread - to me it represents freedom...translation: VICTORY over the Capitol.

Waiting on Wednesday

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

The Demon's Covenant by Sarah Rees Brennan
Pub. Date: May 18, 2010
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
Format: Hardcover, 448pp
Age Range: Young Adult

Synopsis
The Demon's Covenant is the sequel to The Demon's Lexicon. Mae was always in control, but suddenly everyone she trusted is lying—and in danger.

I can't wait to get my hands on the second installment in this action-packed series...well actually I can't wait to read more of Nick's yumminess...

28 Days of Winter Escapes with Claudia Gray!

I'm sure you've noticed the 28 Days of Winter Escapes Widget above. Each day of the month, a new HarperTeen book will be featured along with a corresponding poll for readers to enter to be eligible to enter the sweeps. Readers get a chance to win an autographed copy of the featured book for each day. Also, once a week, there will be a bigger prize and readers could win an iPod Touch.

I have the honor of hosting an exclusive interview with Claudia Gray, author of the Evernight series. Hourglass, Book 3 in the Evernight series is the book of the day. Be sure to stop by and take the poll for chance to win a signed copy! Hourglass is scheduled to be released March 9, 2010.

Please welcome Claudia Gray everyone!

Bianca and Lucas have an interesting first meeting—what’s the most interesting first meeting story you’ve experienced?
A friend of mine who went backpacking in Europe met his future wife, a fellow backpacker, at a cafe in Switzerland; their two groups ended up joining together for a lunch. At the end of the meal, he told her, “I'm going to marry you.” She thought he was simply flirting with her and never thought of it again. . . until several months after their wedding, when she shook him awake in the middle of the night and said, “Wait, you weren’t kidding that day, were you?” He wasn’t.

Bianca and Lucas come from two very different worlds—do you believe in the adage that love conquers all?
No, if love conquered all, it would be too easy. But love can conquer a lot, and I think it helps make us stronger people—and what love can’t do, strength can.

What, in your opinion, is the best type of flower to be given on Valentine’s Day?
Whatever kind you like the most! Smart guys ask. One woman might adore roses, but another goes crazy for tiger lilies.

Also, once, on a whim, I sent a guy flowers (daisies). He LOVED it.

Which would you prefer—candlelit dinner or adventurous outing?
Can we have the candlelit dinner after the adventurous outing? While the dinners are more romantic, I think you learn more about people by seeing them just outside of their comfort zones.

Where is your ideal destination for hiding away from the pressures of everyday life?
Once I went to Iceland, which was amazing—clean and beautiful and, out away from Reykjavik, quieter than anyplace else I’ve ever been.

There was this hot spring out in the middle of a lava field that you could go soak in, totally comfortable because of the brilliant blue mineral water’s heat, even with snow falling on your hair. I would have to say that was the ultimate. On a more day-to-day level? A good hike in the woods does wonders.

What kind of book do you want to curl up next to a fire and read?
On any given day, it could be anything. It’s almost easier to say what I don't like to read, rather than what I do. Right now, the book in my backpack is Wolf Hall by Hilary Mantel; next up is Madapple.

If you were snowed in, what are the three items you would want with you?
A laptop with high-speed internet connection.
Flannel jammies.
Warm snuggly slippers for my feet.

Most romantic movie?
Notorious, with Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman. It’s a dark, intense movie in a lot of ways (it’s Hitchcock, after all), but I think those two had more chemistry in that movie than just about any other stars I’ve ever seen.

What’s your favorite love song (new or old)?
"Stardust," and I especially like Nat King Cole’s version.

What is your preferred hot drink to curl up with: tea, coffee, or hot cocoa?
I drink hot tea most often, but I'd never want to give up cocoa!

Many thanks to HarperTeen & Claudia Gray!

So what are you waiting for? Grab the widget and head on over to enter for lots of great books and prizes.

In My Mailbox (38)

For Review

Brightly Woven (ARC) by Alexandra Bracken

- Click here for Synopsis

wtf by Peter Lerangis

- Click here for Synopsis

Bought

Three Days to Dead (Dreg City, #1) by Kelly Meding

- Click here for Synopsis

Thirst No. 2: Phantom, Evil Thirst, Creatures of Forever by Christopher Pike

- Click here for Synopsis

In My Mailbox was created by Kristi @ The Story Siren and inspired by Alea @ Pop Culture Junkie

Winner of The Mark by Jen Nadol!

The Winner is

The Mark (ARC) by Jen Nadol

Swag: signed bookmark, a glowing pen & The Mark notepad.

MadisonsMommy

Please email me your address within 48 hrs.

Thanks to everyone for participating!

28 Days of Winter Escapes: Win a Prize a Day!

I'm sure you've noticed the 28 Days of Winter Escapes Widget above. Each day of the month, a new HarperTeen book will be featured along with a corresponding poll for readers to enter to be eligible to enter the sweeps. Readers get a chance to win an autographed copy of the featured book for each day. Also, once a week, there will be a bigger prize and readers could win an iPod Touch.

I will be partnering with 28 Days of Winter Escapes to bring to you an exclusive interview with Claudia Gray, author of the Evernight series on February 9, 2010. Hourglass, Book 3 in the Evernight series will be the book of the day. Be sure to stop by and check it out!

So what are you waiting for? Grab the widget and head on over to enter for lots of great books and prizes.

Win A Match Made in High School Prize Pack by Kristin Walker!

**Contest Closed**

This is your chance to Win...

Prize Pack includes:

• A Match Made in High School (signed) by Kristin Waker
• shirt
• megaphone
• bookmarks
• pencils
• engagement ring
• gum
• Post-it matchbook

Rules: 1 Winner! Bonus Entry worth additional +5 entries : Tell me about a prank that you were the victor/victim/witness of.

1. Comment on Interview here: +1
2. Comment on Review here: +1
3. Link to blog: +1
4. Follow me on Twitter +1
5. Follower : +2

Total = 11 entries

Contest ends @ midnight (CST) February 19, 2010. U.S. & Canada Residents Only (Sorry!)

**If you are an international resident and have someone in the states that I could mail the prize to, then you can enter the contest**

Win Possessed by Kate Cann!

**Contest Closed**

This is your chance to Win...

Possessed (ARC) by Kate Cann

Rules: 1 Winner!

1. Comment on Interview here: +1
2. Comment on Review here: +1
3. Link to blog: +1
4. Follow me on Twitter +1
5. Follower : +2

Total = 6 entries

Contest ends @ midnight (CST) February 18, 2010. U.S. & Canada Residents Only (Sorry!)

**If you are an international resident and have someone in the states that I could mail the prize to, then you can enter the contest**

Review: A Match Made in High School by Kristin Walker

A Match Made in High School by Kristin Walker
Pub. Date: February 2010
Publisher: Penguin Group (USA)
Format: Paperback, 288pp
Age Range: Young Adult

When the principal announces that every senior must participate in a mandatory year-long Marriage Education program, Fiona Sheehan believes that her life can't get any worse. That's until she marries her "husband": jerky jock Todd, whose cheerleader girlfriend, Amanda, has had it in for Fiona since day one of second grade. Even worse? Amanda is paired with Fiona's long-term crush, Gabe. At least Fiona is doing better than her best friend, Marcie, who is paired up with the very quiet, very dorky, very big Johnny Mercer.

Pranks, fights, misunderstandings, and reconciliations ensue in an almost Shakespearean comedy of errors about mistaken first impressions, convoluted coupling, and hidden crushes.

In the words of Fiona, A Match Made in High School is Hi-freakin’-larious!

Walker had me wrapped up in her warp world of high school with relish. I engulfed these pages like they were a special recipe. This book deposited me right back in high school. With the pranks and boorish comments, I was laughing so hard, I was sprouting tears. Fiona had me laughing about every other page. Her parents were a hoot too. I can’t imagine having to be shackled with a guy from high school that I despised. There probably would have been a riot at my school but I think this is one of the reasons I enjoyed this book so much. I got to live through it through Fiona’s voice. Talk about the one liner’s in this book – HILARIOUS!

I loved the Journal entries. Fiona had me cracking up. This book should come with Warnings: Choke Alert: A Match Made in High School may cause choking especially to people who drink or eat while reading this book due to Hilarity. There were two occasions where I laughed so hard I started choking. Honestly I can’t say I knew what was expected going into reading this book since it’s totally out of my normal genre. But this book has become one of those guilty pleasures for me. There was one line about leather and a whip that had me squirting pop out my mouth. See what I mean?

Kristin managed to channel the interactions of teens today with the slang and behavior used in her book brilliantly. She did a fabulous job. Readers looking for an entertaining and twisted read inside the on goings of prankster teens will get major kicks out of this laugh out loud page turner.

Rating: 5 ot of 5 Stars

Review: Possessed by Kate Cann

Possessed by Kate Cann
Pub. Date: February 2010
Publisher: Scholastic, Inc.
Format: Hardcover, 336pp
Age Range: 12 and up

Rayne can't wait to start her summer job at a remote country mansion, far from the crowded, noisy London she so desperately wants to escape. But the retreat soon turns into a nightmare -- the mansion is creepy, the legends of ghosts keep Rayne up at night, and she doesn't feel safe anywhere.

Can Rayne figure out why she's so freaked -- before she becomes a ghost story herself?

Rayne Peters longs to get away from feeling trapped by the noisiness of the Estate, her mum’s constant chattering, and her boyfriend’s reputation. All she wants is to sort out her life away from the constant chaos around her. Rayne accepts a position at Morton’s Keep as her solution to finding solace but she never thought she would end of being lured into a living nightmare.

I don’t think I’d ever want to walk in Rayne’s shoes. It took guts to manipulate her way into leaving the clutches of the Estate behind just so she could breathe and sort out the craziness in her life. I think I would have lost my mind being so isolated. Possessed had me looking over my shoulders every time I heard a noise. This book had my nerves on edge. It had me making sure my closet door was closed and I even slept with the TV on, something I never do. To say the least, this book gave me the spooks.

The mysteries surrounding the history of Morton’s Keep was quite fascinating. I enjoyed hearing about the various rumors about ghosts and sinister deeds of the past Lords’ of the Keep. Cann did a great job keeping me in suspense. I never could tell what anyone was hiding and why they were afraid to clue Rayne in. I can’t wait to read the sequel!

Possessed was full of suspense and mystery that kept me glued to the pages…

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

Sensational 7 Q & A with Kristin Walker!

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.

“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

Kristin Walker grew up roaming the Pennsylvania countryside. She finally landed at Penn State, where she earned a BA in Theatre Arts. In addition to being actor, Kristin was many things on her way to becoming an author, such as a lifeguard, a nanny, a beginning ballroom dance instructor, a library circulation clerk, and very nearly a nurse.

A MATCH MADE IN HIGH SCHOOL (Razorbill/Penguin Group) is her first novel. Her work has appeared or is forthcoming in LADYBUG, WEE ONES, and two CHICKEN SOUP FOR THE SOUL books. Kristin lives in a Chicago suburb with her husband and three sons.

If you were given a chance to travel back in time, what year or place would you go / Why?
When I was little, I was obsessed with the Little House on the Prairie era. I mean seriously obsessed. I even owned a bonnet. (I know.) But as I grew up, I learned to appreciate modern conveniences like electricity and indoor plumbing. So whichever time period I'd visit would have to be set up for those. Ever since I saw Mary Poppins (get the feeling that I watch a lot of TV? Yeah, guilty), I've thought it would be cool to visit Edwardian England. Before the world wars. When women wore big hats and carried parasols. Oh, hold on, that's before Penicillin and the Polio vaccine. Forget that. Wait, I know! I want to go back to 1976 when I was six years old and my family moved to New Zealand for two years. It's such a gorgeous country with great culture and traditions. Plus they have this delicious kind of fruit called feijoas that you scoop out with a spoon. Mmmmm...

Describe your novel in seven words or less?
High school seniors fake-marry. Hilarity ensues.

Please share with us about your favorite book and fictional crush to date?
Oh, man how do I choose? Okay, my latest "favorite" book is THE BOOK THIEF by Markus Zusak. It's astounding. It's the kind of book that makes other writers (well, me, at least) want to quit altogether because we can never even approach that level of artistry. And he's younger than I am! Way to pour salt in the wound, universe.

If you could be any character in fiction, whom would you be / Why?
Come on ladies! All together now...Elizabeth Bennet! Seriously, Mr. Darcy was loaded. LOA-DED. He wasn't in possession of just one fortune, he had like thirty. And before you start grumbling about the lack of indoor plumbing, I'd like to point out that nowhere in PRIDE AND PREJIDICE does Elizabeth Bennet use a chamber pot or an outhouse. So I wouldn't have to either.

If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see play the lead role as you / Why?
It would be a sorrowful and desperate day in Hollywood if they made a movie about my life. But if I get to choose the lead, then I'm picking Scarlet Johanssen. No, I don't look anything like her! Yes, I was driving when she was still in diapers! What's your point? You asked me who I'd LIKE to see. Who'd you expect me to pick? Cloris Leachman? Actually, I love Cloris Leachman. She's hilarious. I'd be cool with her, too.

If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be – please explain?
I Suddenly Ran Out of Time: A Lifetime of Procrastination

I'm one of those people who only get things done at the last minute. Except that sometimes the things don't get done. I've been saying, "I suddenly ran out of time" my whole life. It's getting engraved on my headstone. Get it? Ha ha.

How would you describe yourself/life in seven words?
More comfortable in sweats than stilettos. ButIstilllovestilettos.


Bonus:

**Is there any additional info you would like to share with your readers about what’s next for you and your books?**
Apparently, when your book gets published, people expect you to write more of them. So I'll have to get on that pretty soon. Wish me luck! This was a blast. Thanks so much for having me here, Tina!

Thanks Kristin for stopping by!

For more information about Kristin Walker and her books, please visit her website here.

Sensational 7 Q & A with Kate Cann!

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.

“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

Kate Cann lives in England with her husband, daughter, son, and dog. She worked as an editor for many years before writing several books for teens, inclduing Spanish Holiday and Grecian Holiday. For more about Kate and her novels, visit www.katecann.com. Possessed is in stores today!

If you were given a chance to travel back in time, what year or place would you go / Why?
A court in Early Medieval England. Something in me wants to hear wolves at night and be in the absolute pitch black and not take existence for granted. But at the first sign of toothache or infection I’d teleport back to the 21st C …

Describe your novel in seven words or less?
Ancient dark forces rise but Rayne triumphs.

Please share with us about your favorite book and fictional crush to date?

Jane Eyre. Sorry, but it’s Jane Eyre. She’s doughty, feminist, full-blooded, passionate, honest, straight forward, stalwart, and courageous. And only occasionally priggish.

If you could be any character in fiction, whom would you be / Why?
Not Jane Eyre. She doesn’t have quite enough fun. Maybe the bad Rebecca! Or a sea witch.

If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see play the lead role as you / Why?
I really, REALLY don’t think they should make a film about my life. It would be very boring. But maybe Dawn French could be me because she has the best grin going – and also people might come up to me and say ‘Oooh, you’re a bit thinner in real life!’

If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be – please explain?
See above. Too boring! But something along the lines of: 'She Finally Worked It Out. Possibly.'

How would you describe yourself/life in seven words?
Volatile Occasionally lazy. Actually - quite often lazy.


Bonus:

**Is there any additional info you would like to share with your readers about what’s next for you and your books?**
I’m working on an adult book at the moment, but I hope to get a contract to do another dark YA book called WITCH CRAG. It’s set in a dystopian world where strong women are persecuted as witches and the only way they can protect themselves is by fleeing to a gloomy crag and acting as witches to keep their persecutors at bay So it’s going to be about how we mythologize ourselves - about image and reality and truth, and the crossings over between them. With a fair bit of gore and fear thrown in …

Thanks Kate for stopping by!

For more information about Kate Cann and her books, please visit her website here.

Monday Madness (30) Possessed by Kate Cann & A Match Made in High School by Kristin Walker

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.

Possessed by Kate Cann
Pub. Date: February 2010
Publisher: Scholastic, Inc.
Format: Hardcover, 336pp
Age Range: 12 and up

Synopsis
Rayne can't wait to start her summer job at a remote country mansion, far from the crowded, noisy London she so desperately wants to escape. But the retreat soon turns into a nightmare -- the mansion is creepy, the legends of ghosts keep Rayne up at night, and she doesn't feel safe anywhere.

Can Rayne figure out why she's so freaked -- before she becomes a ghost story herself?

Want More?

Read the First Chapter of Possessed here.

Order Possessed @ Amazon, Barnes and Noble or Borders

A Match Made in High School by Kristin Walker
Pub. Date: February 2010
Publisher: Penguin Group (USA)
Format: Paperback, 288pp
Age Range: Young Adult

Synopsis
When the principal announces that every senior must participate in a mandatory year-long Marriage Education program, Fiona Sheehan believes that her life can't get any worse. That's until she marries her "husband": jerky jock Todd, whose cheerleader girlfriend, Amanda, has had it in for Fiona since day one of second grade. Even worse? Amanda is paired with Fiona's long-term crush, Gabe. At least Fiona is doing better than her best friend, Marcie, who is paired up with the very quiet, very dorky, very big Johnny Mercer.

Pranks, fights, misunderstandings, and reconciliations ensue in an almost Shakespearean comedy of errors about mistaken first impressions, convoluted coupling, and hidden crushes.

Want More?

Order A Match Made in High School @ Amazon, Barnes and Noble or Borders



Want More? Head over to The Book Butterfly on Tantalizing Tuesday for a special treat!