Review: Inside Out by Maria Snyder

INSIDE OUT by Maria Snyder
Pub. Date: April 2010
Publisher: Harlequin
Format: Paperback, 320pp
Age Range: Young Adult

Keep Your Head Down.
Don't Get Noticed.
Or Else.
I'm Trella. I'm a scrub. A nobody. One of thousands who work the lower levels, keeping Inside clean for the Uppers. I've got one friend, do my job and try to avoid the Pop Cops. So what if I occasionally use the pipes to sneak around the Upper levels? The only neck at risk is my own…until I accidentally start a rebellion and become the go-to girl to lead a revolution.

Whether Dystopian or Fantasy, Snyder knows how to create a captivating world filled with unforgettable characters and a heart-pounding story line. I fell in love with her Study and Glass Series and I knew that her new YA Series would be no exception. INSIDE OUT pulls you in right from the start. The inner workings of Inside’s hierarchy along with the differences between the scrubs and the uppers living arrangements dare you to unlock the mysteries surrounding Inside. What exists Outside? Is there an Outside? These questions amongst others spurred my curiosity alongside Trella’s.

The books that have great characters are always the ones that stay close to my heart. So when you combine these bigger than life characters with a high risk for failure structure, the net is cast. I was so enraptured by this novel that I did not want to break away from it for one minute. Trella has always kept to herself even if her use of the pipes is to escape the unbearable living arrangements of the scrubs. When curiosity gets the better of her, life suddenly goes from uncomfortable to risky. Known for her cold nature, she has to turn to others for help in her search for answers. Suddenly, with everything at stake, she has no choice but to finish what she started. I admire everything about Trella and the dangerous risks she takes on, especially when she could be sent to the Chomper to be recycled. She’s smart, strong-willed, and resourceful in dire situations. Snyder created a great cast of characters and I can’t wait to read more about them.

Snyder’s writing and world building continues to amaze me. Her creativity is something that I’ve always loved about her writing. You never know what surprises or plot twists she has in store for her characters. Currently with the YA genre filled with supernatural creatures, Inside Out is a breath of fresh air for readers looking for something new and exciting.

The next novel in this series, OUTSIDE IN is scheduled for release in January 2011. I can’t wait to see what Snyder has in store for Trella and crew next. I’m sure it’s going to be just as heart-pounding if INSIDE OUT is anything to go by.

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Sensational 7 Q & A with Maria Snyder!

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

Maria V. Snyder earned an MA in Popular Fiction Writing from Seton Hill University. Her freelance articles appear in magazines and newspapers, and she enjoys teaching fiction writing classes at the local college. Other works by Snyder include her fantasy novels, the Study Series and Glass Series. INSIDE OUT is in stores today!

If you were given a chance to travel back in time, what year or place would you go / Why?

I'd go back to 1978 and I'd want to be me again, but with all my current day knowledge :) Why – middle school was a tough time for me and I'd like to replay it.

Describe your novel in seven words or less?

Inside Out: Dystopian, reluctant hero, action packed, big mystery.

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

I have so many favorites. One of my top ten is Jaran by Kate Elliott. It's a science fiction but the main protagonist crash lands on a planet that has an interesting nomadic tribe. My crush would be on the main hero, who is leader of this tribe, Ilya.

If you could be any character in fiction, whom would you be / Why?

I would be Lessa from the Dragonriders of Pern series by Anne McCaffrey. Something about riding a dragon and being able to communicate with them is just so cool!

If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see play the lead role as you/ Why?

I would like to see Lena Headey play me. She played Sarah Conner in the Sarah Conner Chronicles TV show.

If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be – please explain?

Glitter Love. About a year after Poison Study hit the shelves, I received an email from a young lady who told me my book and especially Yelena gave her the hope and courage to not commit suicide (this is dearer to me than any award or being on the NYTimes Bestseller list). She asked me if I would like to be a part of her English assignment. Her class was doing a Tuesdays with Morrie type project where the students talked with someone who inspired them and then write a report. I agreed and every week we emailed each other.

Glitter love became our sign off because she once said she'd love to meet me in person and she would make me a big welcome sign with lots of glitter. And I told her that just because I write books doesn't mean my life is all glitter and sparkle, that if you look close you can see flaws and see some glitter that doesn't shine – it was a way for me to tell her – no one's life is perfect and that we all have ups and downs even award-winning authors :) She titled her report Glitter Love and earned an A!

How would you describe yourself/life in seven words?

I asked my kids to describe me in seven words. Here's what my son, Luke (age 15) typed: very naggy, very momish, ticklish, weak, jelly, bossy, bad singer, crazy. (Obviously I need to talk to his math teacher :)

My daughter Jenna (age 12): momish, happy, nice, boney, knobby knees, soft, squishy.
And mine: tired, goofy, grumpy, creative, busy, generous, tired.

Bonus:

**Is there any additional info you would like to share with your readers about what’s next for you and your books?**.

The next book after Inside Out is Spy Glass, the third book in the Glass series. That is coming out in September. In 2011, Outside In is coming out in January and after that...I need to sit down with my editor and figure out what's next :)

If anyone is interested in my books and would like to read a chapter, I have a chapter of all my books up on my website. I also have a bunch of free short stories to read as well. Here's the url: www.mariavsnyder.com


Thanks Maria for stopping by!

For more information about Maria Snyder and her books, please visit her website here or you can read the 1st 3 chapters of INSIDE OUT and take the INSIDE OUT personality quiz to find out how to become a ‘productive member’ of ‘Inside’ and find the perfect job here.

Check out the book trailer!

Monday Madness (36): Inside Out by Maria Snyder

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.

INSIDE OUT by Maria Snyder
Pub. Date: April 2010
Publisher: Harlequin
Format: Paperback, 320pp
Age Range: Young Adult

Keep Your Head Down.
Don't Get Noticed.
Or Else.
I'm Trella. I'm a scrub. A nobody. One of thousands who work the lower levels, keeping Inside clean for the Uppers. I've got one friend, do my job and try to avoid the Pop Cops. So what if I occasionally use the pipes to sneak around the Upper levels? The only neck at risk is my own…until I accidentally start a rebellion and become the go-to girl to lead a revolution.

Want More?

Order INSIDE OUT @ Amazon, Barnes and Noble, BooksAMillion & Borders

---

Check out the book trailer for INSIDE OUT!

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

In My Mailbox (42)

Penguin sent these books

The Evil Within: A Possessions Novel by Nancy Holder

Paisley Hanover Kisses and Tells by Cameron Tuttle

The Eternal Ones by Kirsten Miller

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

Winners!!!

The Winners are...

The Dead Tossed Waves (ARC) by Carrie Ryan

Swag: Signed Bookmarks

MannaB

The Sky is Everywhere (ARC) by Jandy Nelson

Jessy

Please email me your addresses within 48hrs

Thanks to everyone for participating!

Win Brightly Woven by Alexandra Bracken!

**Contest Closed**

This is your chance to Win...

Brightly Woven (ARC) by Alexandra Bracken
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) April 9, 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**

Blog Tour: Under My Skin by Judith Graves!

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

Judith Graves loves tragic romance, werewolves, vampires, magick and all things a bit creepy. Thankfully, her sidekick, and lick-the-boogy-man- to-death labrador retriever, Weeping Willow, is always nearby. Residing in a northern Alberta community, similar to the fictional town of Redgrave, where Under My Skin is set - Judith unhappily endures snow in the winter, and runs away from bees in the summer. Her debut novel, UNDER MY SKIN hits shelves March 27, 2010!

If you were given a chance to travel back in time, what year or place would you go / Why?1929. Right here in Alberta, Canada. I’d have joined The Famous Five (making it the Famous Six…lol…) and their efforts to have women named “persons” in the eyes of the law. The Persons Case was girl power at its best. I used to live a few blocks from one of the 5’s historical homes in Edmonton. I’d walk by it on my way to college and give a little nod.

Describe your novel in seven words or less?
Beauty and the Beast meets Buffy.

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

I have lots of favs, but one at the top of my list is Keturah and Lord Death by Marine Leavitt (makes me cry every time). Lord Death ends up falling in love with the girl he’s come to claim. It’s amazing. As for a fictional crush, besides Leavitt’s intense Lord Death…..there’s always Bronte’s Heathcliff. Always. I love conflicted characters and these guys….whoa.

If you could be any character in fiction, whom would you be / Why?Keturah or Catherine. The other halves of Lord Death and Heathcliff. Both end up sharing eternity with their loves…..oops, that’s a bit of a spoiler, eh?

If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see play the lead role as you / Why?
Ellen Paige. She does an amazing sassy, smarty pants….she might be able to pull Judith Graves off. ;) Plus, she’s Canadian. And just really cool.

If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be – please explain?
Would the real Judith Graves please stand up?

How would you describe yourself/life in seven words?

If there’s a line - I’ll cross it.

Bonus:

**Is there any additional info you would like to share with your readers about what’s next for you and your books?**

You can watch the spiffy booktrailer for UMS (Madison at M2 Productions has serious skills) on my website: www.judithgraves.com
Check out the Wolfy Chicks blog I co-write with Kitty Keswick, author of Freaksville: http://www.wolfychicks.blogspot.com

Thanks Judith for stopping by!

More Info About Judith Graves and Under My Skin at:
Book Trailer http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0s3kQ4nnSEk
Publisher’s Website http://www.leapbks.com/
Class of 2k10 website http://www.blogger.com/AppData/Local/Microsoft/Windows/Temporary%20Internet%20Files/Content.IE5/EM01PZ9M/www.class2k10.comClass of 2k10 trailer http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J0H79WFPYpc&feature

Check out Under My Skin Book Trailer!

Review: Brightly Woven by Alexandra Bracken

Brightly Woven by Alexandra Bracken

Pub. Date: March 23, 2010
Publisher: EgmontUSA
Format: Hardcover, 368pp
Age Range: Young Adult

When Wayland North brings rain to a region that's been dry for over ten years, he's promised anything he'd like as a reward. He chooses the village elder's daughter, sixteen-year-old Sydelle Mirabel, who is a skilled weaver and has an unusual knack for repairing his magical cloaks. Though Sydelle has dreamt of escaping her home, she's hurt that her parents relinquish her so freely and finds herself awed and afraid of the slightly ragtag wizard who is unlike any of the men of magic in the tales she's heard. Still, she is drawn to this mysterious man who is fiercely protective of her and so reluctant to share his own past.

The pair rushes toward the capital, intent to stop an imminent war, pursued by Reuel Dorwan (a dark wizard who has taken a keen interest in Sydelle) and plagued by unusually wild weather. But the sudden earthquakes and freak snowstorms may not be a coincidence. As Sydelle discovers North's dark secret and the reason for his interest in her and learns to master her own mysterious power, it becomes increasingly clear that the fate of the kingdom rests in her fingertips. She will either be a savior, weaving together the frayed bonds between Saldorra and Auster, or the disastrous force that destroys both kingdoms forever.

Captivating and Compelling in its storytelling, BRIGHTLY WOVEN will take readers on an unforgettable magical adventure.

I was enamored with BRIGHLY WOVEN from beginning to end. This is why I love the fantasy genre – getting to discover new worlds and the characters that make them exciting to live in. Sydelle is one of those strong heroines that I crave to see more of in YA books. The dangerous journey that she had to endure on her mission to protect her village from war could have broken anyone with the formidable task at hand. But not Sydelle, she’s got the spunk and the courage to brave the most dangerous roads. North-What can I say about Wayland North? Roguish charms and underneath that hard exterior, he has the heart of gold. Sydelle is strong on her own but Sydelle and North together- their chemistry ignites the most dangerous storms.

Bracken’s writing is splendidly colorful with its beautiful imagery and spellbinding plot. Once I started reading BRIGHTLY WOVEN, I could NOT stop turning the pages. This book was like a surprise gift – I never knew what to expect. And like all great gifts, BRIGHTLY WOVEN captured my heart. I fell in love with the world Bracken created. With endless dangers accompanied with magical elements at every turn, the pages could not turn fast enough.

A great start to what could possibly be a great series, I can’t wait to see what adventures and dangerous assignments Sydelle and North will come upon next. Readers looking for an enchanting romance surrounded by magical intrigue and unforgettable characters will devour this novel.

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Sensational 7 Q & A with Alexandra Bracken!

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

Alexandra Bracken wrote BRIGHTLY WOVEN as a birthday present for a friend, and the story grew and flourished during a year of unpredictable, wild weather. A native of Arizona, she is a recent graduate of the College of William and Mary, where she majored in History and English. She now lives in New York City. BRIGHTLY WOVEN is in stores today!

If you were given a chance to travel back in time, what year or place would you go / Why?
If you had asked me this five years ago, I would have said Revolutionary War-era Virginia... but seeing that I spent the last four years living in Colonial Williamsburg, I'm going to have to go with... ancient Athens! I would really love to see Athens at the height of its power and prominence. It's kind of a dork answer, but I'm part Greek and have been obsessed with mythology since I was but a wee little girl. That said, I wouldn't want to LIVE in ancient Athens...

Describe your novel in seven words or less?
A terrible curse, a great love story? Oh, that's no good. How about:Wizards, curses, romance, adventure, war, wild weather :)

Please share with us about your favorite book and fictional crush to date?
Hah! These answers totally change depending on my mood and the day of the week. :) But I'm going to go with MATILDA by Roald Dahl and...
Ron Weasley. What can I say? I'm a total sucker for gingers.

If you could be any character in fiction, whom would you be / Why? Obviously Hermione Granger, so I could make out with the aforementioned ginger wizard! (And also because she is far, far more brilliant, fearless and witty than I'll ever be!

If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see play the lead role as you / Why? Anne Hathaway. Mostly because I think she's the only actress out there as pale as I am, and I totally covet her shiny princess hair.

If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be – please explain?
THE COLLECTOR'S DAUGHTER, mostly because my childhood was so bizarre and wonderful. My dad is what you might call a Big Time Star Wars collector... so I spent a lot of time at antique shows and in toy stores.

How would you describe yourself/life in seven words?
Girl with her head in the clouds.

Thanks Alexandra for stopping by!

For more information about Alexandra Bracken and her books, please visit her website here.

Monday Madness (35) Brightly Woven by Alexandra Bracken

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.

Brightly Woven by Alexandra Bracken

Pub. Date: March 23, 2010
Publisher: EgmontUSA
Format: Hardcover, 368pp
Age Range: Young Adult

Synopsis
When Wayland North brings rain to a region that's been dry for over ten years, he's promised anything he'd like as a reward. He chooses the village elder's daughter, sixteen-year-old Sydelle Mirabel, who is a skilled weaver and has an unusual knack for repairing his magical cloaks. Though Sydelle has dreamt of escaping her home, she's hurt that her parents relinquish her so freely and finds herself awed and afraid of the slightly ragtag wizard who is unlike any of the men of magic in the tales she's heard. Still, she is drawn to this mysterious man who is fiercely protective of her and so reluctant to share his own past.

The pair rushes toward the capital, intent to stop an imminent war, pursued by Reuel Dorwan (a dark wizard who has taken a keen interest in Sydelle) and plagued by unusually wild weather. But the sudden earthquakes and freak snowstorms may not be a coincidence. As Sydelle discovers North's dark secret and the reason for his interest in her and learns to master her own mysterious power, it becomes increasingly clear that the fate of the kingdom rests in her fingertips. She will either be a savior, weaving together the frayed bonds between Saldorra and Auster, or the disastrous force that destroys both kingdoms forever.

Want More?

Take a Sneak Peek of Brightly Woven here

Order Brightly Woven @ Amazon, Barnes and Noble or Borders

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

In My Mailbox (41)

For Review

Rules of Attraction (Perfect Chemistry trilogy, #2) by Simone Elkeles

Bought

Hourglass (Evernight, #3)by Claudia Gray

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

Win The Body Finder & Swag Pack by Kimberly Derting!

**Contest Closed**
This is your chance to Win... The Body Finder (ARC) by KimberlyDerting

Swag Pack: a totebag, signed poster, bookmarks and stickers

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) April 1, 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 Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins!

The Winner is...

Throuthehaze

Please email me your address within 48 hrs.

Thanks to everyone for participating!

Review: The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting

The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting
Pub. Date: March 16, 2010
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Format: Hardcover, 336pp
Age Range: Young Adult

Violet Ambrose is grappling with two major issues: Jay Heaton and her morbid secret ability. While the sixteen-year-old is confused by her new
feelings for her best friend since childhood, she is more disturbed by her
"power" to sense dead bodies—or at least those that have been murdered. Since she was a little girl, she has felt the echoes the dead leave behind in the world . . . and the imprints that attach to their killers.

Violet has never considered her strange talent to be a gift; it mostly just led her to find dead birds her cat left for her. But now that a serial killer is terrorizing her small town, and the echoes of the local girls he's claimed haunt her daily, Violet realizes she might be the only person who can stop him.

Despite his fierce protectiveness over her, Jay reluctantly agrees to help Violet find the murderer—and Violet is unnerved by her hope that Jay's intentions are much more than friendly. But even as she's falling intensely in love, Violet is getting closer and closer to discovering a killer . . . and becoming his prey herself.

Derting’s debut novel is a gripping page turner full of romance, mystery, and suspense.

Violet’s ability to sense the dead has plagued her since she was little. She had to constantly cope with being drawn to the echoes left behind by the dead. The torment that ensued after her discovery of a dead body had my heart breaking for her. She had a great support system that was there for her throughout each incident which was a nice surprise, since in most of the books I read the protagonist kept her abilities a secret from her loved ones. I loved Derting’s take on Violet’s ability to sense the dead. It was interesting to see what sound or taste would be identified with each echo. Derting’s description of the echoes, although creepy at times, was one of the reasons I enjoyed this book. Violet’s unique ability had me constantly questioning: Who would be the next victim? / What clues would be uncovered next?

The romance in THE BODY FINDER is bitter sweet. Even though there’s death around, I enjoyed the softer aspects of this novel. Violet and Jay had been friends since they were 6. Following along as their relationship blossomed into something more kept a smile on my face. Who doesn’t love First Love? I also did not realize how I would be emotionally attached to these characters. Which is why, I was shocked that I *sniff sniff* teared up. It took me by surprise – it being the emotional part.

The chapters on the Serial Killer were so chilling in its telling that I got goose bumps. It was so hard not to want to know where he would strike next. Disturbing I know, but it kept me eagerly turning the pages. I’m thrilled that I’ll get to read more about Violet and her abilities in the sequel, DESIRES OF THE DEAD scheduled for release in 2011.

Rating: 4 ½ out of 5 Stars

Sensational 7 Q & A with Kimberly Derting!

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

Kimberly Derting lives in the Pacific Northwest, which is the ideal place to be writing anything dark or creepy...a gloomy day can set the perfect mood. She lives with her husband and their three beautiful (and often mouthy) children, who serve as an endless source of inspiration for her writing. Her debut novel, THE BODY FINDER is in stores today!

If you were given a chance to travel back in time, what year or place would you go / Why?
My serious answer is probably sometime during the Renaissance, to be alive when the arts were being reborn, to meet great artists and writers, to experience such a dramatic change in the world. But my not-so-serious answer is: six weeks ago. I really want to know where I lost my Bluetooth.

Describe your novel in seven words or less?
A girl finds dead bodies. And love.

Please share with us about your favorite book and fictional crush to date?
Uhh, this is so hard! I’m going to skip my favorite book because A) there are far too many to name just one, and B) no one really cares which books I like…I’m not that interesting! So I’ll just go right to boys! Favorite fictional crushes (see, how I did that? I have more than one!): Seth from WICKED LOVELY, Sam from SHIVER, I just started HUSH, HUSH and can’t forget Patch, and then I kind of have to go old-school and name one that no one ever knows, Clayton from WHITNEY, MY LOVE.

If you could be any character in fiction, whom would you be / Why?
Katniss Everdeen, because she’s completely bad-ass and the absolute, 100% opposite of me. I am so not bad-ass.

If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see play the lead role as you/ Why?
David Spade. He’s short, he’s blonde, and he’s hilarious. Plus, I’m pretty sure he can rock a dress like nobody’s business. Either him, or Reese Witherspoon. ;)

If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be – please explain?
OVER THE LINE. My husband and kids always accuse me of taking jokes a little too far and making people uncomfortable. If they want me to stop, they should probably stop encouraging me!

How would you describe yourself/life in seven words?
A rocky beginning…but an amazing journey.

Bonus:

**Is there any additional info you would like to share with your readers about what’s next for you and your books?**
The follow-up to THE BODY FINDER, titled DESIRES OF THE DEAD, is scheduled for release March 2011.

Thanks Kimberly for stopping by!

For more information about Kimberly Derting and her books, please visit her website here.

Monday Madness (34) The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting

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 Body Finder by Kimberly Derting

Pub. Date: March 16, 2010
Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers
Format: Hardcover, 336pp
Age Range: Young Adult

Synopsis
Violet Ambrose is grappling with two major issues: Jay Heaton and her morbid secret ability. While the sixteen-year-old is confused by her new feelings for her best friend since childhood, she is more disturbed by her "power" to sense dead bodies—or at least those that have been murdered. Since she was a little girl, she has felt the echoes the dead leave behind in the world . . . and the imprints that attach to their killers.

Violet has never considered her strange talent to be a gift; it mostly just led her to find dead birds her cat left for her. But now that a serial killer is terrorizing her small town, and the echoes of the local girls he's claimed haunt her daily, Violet realizes she might be the only person who can stop him.

Despite his fierce protectiveness over her, Jay reluctantly agrees to help Violet find the murderer—and Violet is unnerved by her hope that Jay's intentions are much more than friendly. But even as she's falling intensely in love, Violet is getting closer and closer to discovering a killer . . . and becoming his prey herself.

Want More?

Take a Sneak Peek of The Body Finder here

Order The Body Finder @ Amazon, Barnes and Noble or Borders

The Body Finder Book Trailer

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

In My Mailbox (40)

For Review

Shade (ARC) by Jeri Smith-Ready

Claire de Lune (ARC) by Christine Johnson

These books came unexpected:

Morpheus Road: The Light (ARC) by D. J. Machale

Little Vampire Women (ARC) by Louisa May Alcott, Lynn Messina

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

Winner of Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver!

The Winner is...

Before I Fall (ARC) by Lauren Oliver

deltay @ Lucid Conspiracy

Please email your address within 48hrs

Thanks to everyone for participating!

Win The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson!

**Contest Closed**

This is your chance to Win...

The Sky is Everywhere (ARC) by Jandy Nelson

Rules: 1 Winner!

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

Total = 5 entries

Contest ends @ midnight (CST) March 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**

Review: The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson

The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson
Pub. Date: March 2010
Publisher: Penguin Young Readers Group
Format: Hardcover, 288pp
Age Range: Young Adult

Seventeen-year-old Lennie Walker, bookworm and band geek, plays second clarinet and spends her time tucked safely and happily in the shadow of her fiery older sister, Bailey. But when Bailey dies abruptly, Lennie is catapulted to center stage of her own life—and, despite her nonexistent history with boys, suddenly finds herself struggling to balance two. Toby was Bailey’s boyfriend; his grief mirrors Lennie’s own. Joe is the new boy in town, a transplant from Paris whose nearly magical grin is matched only by his musical talent. For Lennie, they’re the sun and the moon; one boy takes her out of her sorrow, the other comforts her in it. But just like their celestial counterparts, they can’t collide without the whole wide world exploding.

Once in a while, a book comes along and captures your heart completely. THE SKY IS EVERYWHERE wrapped itself around my heart and held on tight.

Lennie’s journey through grief, love, and self-discovery enraptured me throughout the entire book. The contrasts between Lennie’s demeanor around Joe and Toby quickly reeled me in page by page. Joe represented sunny blue skies and new life for Lennie as she struggled with her grief over her sister’s death. I found myself falling in love with this character through Lennie’s eyes - Bat.Bat.Bat (Read the book and you’ll get what I’m saying). The grief-stricken scenes with Lennie and Toby continued to break my heart as they clung to one another for some semblance of life without Bailey. The characters in this novel are so realistic and heartwarming, I couldn’t have asked for a better cast.

There are so many aspects that I enjoyed about this book. I loved the Walker family dynamics which included Grams - the Garden Guru, Uncle Big – the ever so eccentric, and even Lennie’s thoughts on her absentee mom. I also loved how Lennie wrote poems and notes to be scattered by the wind for someone else to find. I couldn’t imagine how this book would play out and all the unexpected surprises made me appreciate this book even more.

This is a testament to Nelson’s writing that I found myself smiling, laughing, heart-broken, and tearing up in accordance with Lennie. Have you ever wanted a book NOT to end? I fell in love with THE SKY IS EVERYWHERE and did not want it to end. This is one of those novels that I will keep close to my heart. The writing is splendid and I was an emotional wreck by the end of this book. I did not want to part with this book.

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

---

Check out the book trailer!

Winner of Forget-Her-Nots by Amy Brecount White!

The Winner is...

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

Swag: Signed Bookmarks

CherylS22

Please email me your addresses within 48hrs

Thanks to everyone for participating!

Win The Dead Tossed Waves by Carrie Ryan!

**Contest Closed**

This is your chance to Win...

The Dead Tossed Waves (ARC) by Carrie Ryan

Swag: 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 25, 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: The Dead Tossed Waves by Carrie Ryan

The Dead Tossed Waves by Carrie Ryan

Pub. Date: March 09, 2010
Publisher: Random House Children's Books
Format: Hardcover, 416pp
Age Range: Young Adult

Gabry lives a quiet life. As safe a life as is possible in a town trapped between a forest and the ocean, in a world teeming with the dead, who constantly hunger for those still living. She's content on her side of the Barrier, happy to let her friends dream of the Dark City up the coast while she watches from the top of her lighthouse. But there are threats the Barrier cannot hold back. Threats like the secrets Gabry's mother thought she left behind when she escaped from the Sisterhood and the Forest of Hands and Teeth. Like the cult of religious zealots who worship the dead. Like the stranger from the forest who seems to know Gabry. And suddenly, everything is changing. One reckless moment, and half of Gabry's generation is dead, the other half imprisoned. Now Gabry only knows one thing: she must face the forest of her mother's past in order to save herself and the one she loves.

Carrie Ryan grabs you by the teeth with THE DEAD TOSSED WAVES and never lets you go. Before jumping into this book, I felt almost hesitant, wondering if I was ready to embark on another harrowing journey and worried about how emotionally wrecked I’d be in the process. When I opened the book, there was an ominous feeling in the air, leaving me edgy and wanting to chant -“Don’t do it Gabry,” right from get go. I can tell you that Carrie Ryan wastes no time jumping back into the thick of things and this novel starts off with one hell of a bang!

Reading this book through Gabry’s 1st person POV puts you right smack in the middle of the action. I empathized and cringed for her every step of the way. Gabry didn’t think she had the strength and skills of her mother to handle the Unconsecrated/Mudo/Breakers but her actions in this book proved she was just as strong as Mary. The secrets and suspense in this book had me sitting on the edge of my seat. The characters in DTW are flawless. Once again, Ryan drilled into my emotions and had them pouring all over the pages.

When I finished reading THE FOREST OF HANDS AND TEETH, the first thing I did was go the Carrie Ryan’s website to see if there would be a sequel. Well, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on THE DEAD TOSSED WAVES even though it's a companion novel. If you thought THE FOREST OF HANDS AND TEETH was good, well THE DEAD TOSSED WAVES is something to behold. Ryan had me on pins and needles with this thrilling installment. With the way TDW ended, I can't wait to find out what's in store for Gabry in the next installment!

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Sensational 7 Q & A with Carrie Ryan!

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

Born and raised in Greenville, South Carolina, Carrie Ryan is a graduate of Williams College and Duke University School of Law. A former litigator, she now writes full time. She lives with her writer/lawyer fiancé, two fat cats and one large puppy in Charlotte, North Carolina. They are not at all prepared for the zombie apocalypse. THE DEAD TOSSED WAVES is the sequel to THE FOREST OF HANDS AND TEETH. It hit shelves today!

If you were given a chance to travel back in time, what year or place would you go / Why?
That’s a tough question - I kind of like today because life is pretty easy (easy access to food, electricity, shelter, etc). If I could go anywhere and any time I’d love to visit the Court of King Arthur. I’ve always been fascinated by the stories and it would be cool to be surrounded by such intrigue, magic and inspiration.

Describe your novel in seven words or less?
Life’s safe behind barriers -- is it living?

Please share with us about your favorite book and fictional crush to date?
I don’t play favorites with books -- I love too many! I have a ton of crushes but one of my current faves is Peeta from the Hunger Games -- I love how he adores Katniss for who she really is: strong, fierce, smart and flawed.

If you could be any character in fiction, whom would you be / Why?
The first person who comes to mind is Hermione because she’s so smart and capable and she gets to do magic all the time.

If Hollywood made a movie about your life, whom would you like to see play the lead role as you / Why?
I have no idea! I don’t watch enough movies to know who all the actresses are. I’m sure she’d be quite bored playing my life since it involves a lot of sitting around and staring at the computer screen while taking pictures of my lazy pets and posting them on twitter.

If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be – please explain?
I’m terrible with titles (I have a hard enough time titling my own books without titling someone else’s - haha). Maybe “Follow your Passion.” It’s not really a title but more my personal motto. My mother taught me growing up that if you follow your passion you’ll find a way to make a living doing it and she was right!

How would you describe yourself/life in seven words?
Lucky, happy, looking forward to the future.


Bonus:

**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, The Dead-Tossed Waves, comes out on March 9th and I’m thrilled to be heading out on tour for it (the tour information is here: http://carrie-me.blogspot.com/2009/03/dead-tossed-waves-tour-page.html). I’ve just finished the third book in the series which will be coming out Spring 2011 and I have a few short stories set in the same word coming out in 2010.

Thanks Carrie for stopping by!

For more information about Carrie Ryan and her books, please visit her website here.

Monday Madness (33) The Dead Tossed Waves by Carrie Ryan

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 Dead Tossed Waves by Carrie Ryan

Pub. Date: March 09, 2010
Publisher: Random House Children's Books
Format: Hardcover, 416pp
Age Range: Young Adult

Synopsis
Gabry lives a quiet life. As safe a life as is possible in a town trapped between a forest and the ocean, in a world teeming with the dead, who constantly hunger for those still living. She's content on her side of the Barrier, happy to let her friends dream of the Dark City up the coast while she watches from the top of her lighthouse. But there are threats the Barrier cannot hold back. Threats like the secrets Gabry's mother thought she left behind when she escaped from the Sisterhood and the Forest of Hands and Teeth. Like the cult of religious zealots who worship the dead. Like the stranger from the forest who seems to know Gabry. And suddenly, everything is changing. One reckless moment, and half of Gabry's generation is dead, the other half imprisoned. Now Gabry only knows one thing: she must face the forest of her mother's past in order to save herself and the one she loves.

Want More?

Take a Sneak Peek of The Dead Tossed Waves here.

Order The Dead Tossed Waves @ Amazon, Barnes and Noble or Borders

The Dead Tossed Waves Book Trailer

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

In My Mailbox (39)

This is an accumulation of books over the past 3 weeks.

For Review

This group came unexpected by Penguin

Winter Longing (ARC) by Tricia Mills

Invisible Girl (ARC) by Mary Hanlon Stone

Plus (ARC) by Veronica Chambers

The Extraordinary Secrets of April, May, & Juneby (ARC) by Robin Benway

This group came from HarperTeen

Forgive My Fins (ARC) by Tera Lynn Childs

Radiant Shadows (ARC) by Melissa Marr

Early to Death, Early to Rise (Madison Avery, #2) (ARC) by Kim Harrison

*******

Angel Star (signed ARC) by Jennifer Murgia

Bought

Shift by Rachel Vincent ***Spoilers in Summary***

This group came unexpected by Harlequin

Inside Out by Maria V. Snyder

This group came unexpected by Delacorte Books for Young Readers

The Dead Tossed Waves by Carrie Ryan

The Story of Cirrus Flux by Matthew Skelton

This group came unexpected by Simon & Schuster

Getting Revenge on Lauren Wood by Eileen Cook

Blood Ninja by Nick Lake

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