Sensational 7 Q & A with Kelly Creagh!

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

As a child, Kelly would hold elaborate one-kid plays for patient relatives, complete with song, dance, and over-the-top melodramatics. Then, whenever Mom or Grandma called for a break, she would venture outside to slay dragons, run from make-believe ghosts and create magical feasts for fairies out of mud and pinecones.

In the third grade, Kelly wrote her first book titled Pink Lettuce, a story about a young girl who comes to the aid of her mad scientist neighbor, helping him to return his potion-pink lettuce patch to its original green and leafy luster.

Kelly holds an undergraduate degree in Theatre Arts and Master of Fine Arts in Writing for Children and Young Adults. Today, she finds true joy in transcribing her dramatic daydreams onto the stage of the blank page. When not writing or curled up with a good book, Kelly can be found teaching, learning and performing the ancient art of Bellydance.

NEVERMORE, Kelly's debut novel is in stores today!

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

I think I would like to travel back in time to the Victorian era in America. I love the culture and am so intrigued by that era’s fascination with death, mourning and spiritualism. I’m also in love with the fashion, though I’m not to keen on the idea of wearing a corset all day. Specifically, I think I would enjoy attending the 1893 Chicago World’s Fair and paying a visit to “The Streets of Cairo,” where Americans were introduced to the art of belly dance. If I could skip back about forty years while I was at it, I would love to attend one of Poe’s lectures or, better yet, one of his reportedly theatrical and passionate recitations of “The Raven.”

Describe your novel in seven words or less?

Subtle, dark and creeping. Leave lights on.

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

My favorite book of all time is Phantom by Susan Kay. But my fictional crush is totally Severus Snape. Hotness? Essence of.

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

I have a few characters whom I’d like to live a day in the life of. Today, however, I think that I would really like to be Beauty from Robin McKinley’s Beauty. It’s kind of a cool idea living in this big castle with invisible people and beautiful gardens and a mysterious beast.

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

I really like Reese Witherspoon. I especially enjoyed her performance in Vanity Fair. It might be paying myself a high compliment, but if I had to cast someone to play me, it would be Reese! Though I think she would need more hair...

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

I’d love for my biography to be created in graphic novel format and titled something like “Goldilocks and Pandora’s Box.” I think that kind of sums up my approach to writing (and probably life, too.) In other words, whenever I’m creating something, I like to take things that are light and happy and pair them with elements of darkness and chaos. Mwa ha ha.

How would you describe yourself/life in seven words?

Coffee. Write. Read. Poe. Panic! Chocolate. Sparkles!

Bonus:

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

I am currently at work on the sequel to Nevermore. Be sure to check my blog for details and updates. Also, if you haven’t already, be sure to go to my Extras page at www.kellycreagh.com to download a FREE song from page 80 of Nevermore!!

Thanks for stopping by Kelly!

For more information about Kelly Creagh and her books, please visit her website here.

Monday Madness (56) Nevermore by Kelly Creagh

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.

NEVERMORE by Kelly Creagh

Pub. Date: August 2010
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
Format: Hardcover, 543pp
Age Range: Young Adult

And the raven, never flitting, still is sitting, still is sitting

On the pallid bust of Pallas just above my chamber door;

And his eyes have all the seeming of a demon's that is dreaming,

And the lamp-light o'er him streaming throws his shadow on the floor;

And my soul from out that shadow that lies floating on the floor

Shall be lifted - nevermore!

-- from "The Raven" by Edgar Allan Poe

Cheerleader Isobel Lanley is horrified when she is paired with Varen Nethers for an English project, which is due—so unfair—on the day of the rival game. Cold and aloof, sardonic and sharp-tongued, Varen makes it clear he’d rather not have anything to do with her either. But when Isobel discovers strange writing in his journal, she can’t help but give this enigmatic boy with the piercing eyes another look.

Soon, Isobel finds herself making excuses to be with Varen. Steadily pulled away from her friends and her possessive boyfriend, Isobel ventures deeper and deeper into the dream world Varen has created through the pages of his notebook, a realm where the terrifying stories of Edgar Allan Poe come to life.

As her world begins to unravel around her, Isobel discovers that dreams, like words, hold more power than she ever imagined, and that the most frightening realities are those of the mind. Now she must find a way to reach Varen before he is consumed by the shadows of his own nightmares.

His life depends on it.

Want More?

Take a sneak peek of Chapter 1 of NEVERMORE here 

Order NEVERMORE @ Amazon, Barnes and Noble, BooksAMillion, Borders & IndieBound

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

Review: The Iron Daughter by Julie Kagawa

THE IRON DAUGHTER by Julie Kagawa

Pub. Date: August 2010

Publisher: Harlequin

Format: Paperback, 304pp

Age Range: Young Adult

Series: The Iron Fey Series, #2

Half Summer faery princess, half human, Meghan has never fit in anywhere. Deserted by the Winter prince she thought loved her, she is prisoner to the Winter faery queen. As war looms between Summer and Winter, Meghan knows that the real danger comes from the Iron fey—ironbound faeries that only she and her absent prince have seen. But no one believes her.

Worse, Meghan's own fey powers have been cut off. She's stuck in Faery with only her wits for help. Trusting anyone would be foolish. Trusting a seeming traitor could be deadly. But even as she grows a backbone of iron, Meghan can't help but hear the whispers of longing in her all-too-human heart.

Meghan Chase, the poor girl can't catch a break. Well, this is nothing new for the half-fey daughter of Oberon, king of the summer court. With danger lurking around every corner and enemies hiding in every shadow, The Iron Daughter is a non-stop page turner.

After reading this book, this series has become one of my favorite YA series. The Iron King, the first book in this series was perfect and I wondered if the sequel would be able to hold a flame to it. This action packed, fast paced sequel did more that meet its predecessor - it burned it up! There was never a dull or slow paced moment in this book. This book had it all! Action, romance, suspense, danger, and humor littered the pages - turning this book into an unforgettable and highly entertaining read.

I love Kagawa's writing style and the amazing job/recreation that she did with the characters in this book. I have so many favorites that I can't write down everything that I loved about them. One of my favorite lines and I always snicker when I read it comes from the Great and lovable feline Grimalkin - "I am a cat." I have to mention my two favorite faeries in this series - Ash and Puck. Is there a thing such as Team Pash (It means a passionate kiss; snog, make out, kiss) I can tell you that these two are definitely kissable! Just ask Meghan! If you are new to this series, you don't know what you're missing. This series is a must read!

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

In My Mailbox (61)

For Review

I Now Pronounce You Someone Else (ARC) by Erin McCahan  (Courtesy of  Scholastic)

Deception (Haunting Emma, #1) (ARC) by Lee Nichols  (Courtesy of Bloomsbury)

Kiss Me Deadly: 13 Tales of Paranormal Love by Trisha Telep (Editor), Maggie Stiefvater, Becca Fitzpatrick, Rachel Vincent, Karen Mahoney, Diana Peterfreund, Daniel Waters, Carrie Ryan, Justine Musk, Justine Musk, Daniel Marks, Sarah Rees Brennan, Michelle Rowen, Michelle Zink, Caitlin Kittredge (Courtesy of Penguin Group USA)

The Lost Saint (The Dark Divine, #2) (ARC) by Bree Despain (Courtesy of Egmont USA)

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

Winners!

The Winners of Bring on the Night by Jeri Smith-Ready are:

Jessica @ Confessions of a Bookaholic

throuthehaze

Robin K

Meredith

Blondie

The Winners of The Supernatural Prize Packs are:

Prize Pack 1 - Vampires & Werewolves = ZombieGirrrl
Jealousy (Strange Angels, #3) (Paperback) by Lili St. Crow
Linger (The Wolves of Mercy Falls, #2) (ARC) by Maggie Stiefvater

Prize Pack 2 - Faeries & Angels = celi.a
The Iron Daughter (Iron Fey, #2) (Paperback) by Julie Kagawa
Early to Death, Early to Rise (Madison Avery, #2) (ARC) by Kim Harrison

Prize Pack 3 - Zombies & Shapeshifters = Travis
Other (Other, #1) (Paperback) by Karen Kincy
Undead Much (Paperback) by Stacey Jay

Prize Pack 4 - Retellings = Lorielle
Anxious Hearts (ARC) by Tucker Shaw
Jekel Loves Hyde (ARC) by Beth Fantaskey

I've emailed the winners, please email me your addresses within 48hrs.

Thanks to everyone for Particpating!

Review: The Eternal Ones by Kirsten Miller

THE ETERNAL ONES by Kirsten Miller

Pub. Date: August 2010

Publisher: Penguin Young Readers Group

Format: Hardcover, 416pp

Age Range: Young Adult

Source: Publisher

Haven Moore can't control her visions of a past with a boy called Ethan, and a life in New York that ended in fiery tragedy. In our present, she designs beautiful dresses for her classmates with her best friend Beau. Dressmaking keeps her sane, since she lives with her widowed and heartbroken mother in her tyrannical grandmother s house in Snope City, a tiny town in Tennessee. Then an impossible group of coincidences conspire to force her to flee to New York, to discover who she is, and who she was.

In New York, Haven meets Iain Morrow and is swept into an epic love affair that feels both deeply fated and terribly dangerous. Iain is suspected of murdering a rock star and Haven wonders, could he have murdered her in a past life? She visits the Ouroboros Society and discovers a murky world of reincarnation that stretches across millennia. Haven must discover the secrets hidden in her past lives, and loves, before all is lost and the cycle begins again.

THE ETERNAL ONES takes readers deep inside the mystery of the Ouroboros Society and reincarnation. This book took off for me when the conversations Haven had with her dad about her past lives was revealed. I couldn't put this book down after that.

Haven is a likable character (although I figured out some of the mysteries that she was oblivious to) and her best friend Beau is a real treat. I couldn't get enough of his snarky comments. But, help me - I don't know how Haven put up with her Grams. Lord, the woman could push anyone to jump into the fiery pits of hell just to get away from her holier than thou righteousness. I would have been counting down the seconds to get away from her. I felt sorry for Haven and couldn't blame her for wanting to blow town.

Kirsten’s writing style perplexed me at times but other than that, THE ETERNAL ONES is a very enjoyable read. This book has its steamier moments too. Yes - guilty as charged, I ate up the pages with Haven and Iain with his gorgeous deliciousness. Talk about love eternal because the connection that Haven and Iain have with one another is undying.

This book is great! I just wish there was more!

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

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Check out the book trailer!

Winner of Clockwork Angel!

The Winner is...

CLOCKWORK ANGEL (ARC) by Cassandra Clare

Martha Lawson

I've emailed the winner, please email me your address within 48hrs.

Thanks to everyone for participating!

Win Being Jamie Baker!

This is your chance to Win...

BEING JAMIE BAKER (Signed) by Kelly Oram

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 @ 11:59pm (CST) September 10, 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: Being Jamie Baker by Kelly Oram

BEING JAMIE BAKER by Kelly Oram

Pub. Date: June 2010

Publisher: Bluefields

Format: Paperback, 360pp

Age Range: Young Adult

An accident that should end in tragedy instead gives seventeen-year-old Jamie Baker a slew of uncontrollable superhuman abilities.

To keep her secret safe Jamie socially exiles herself, earning the title of Rocklin High's resident ice queen. But during a supercharged encounter with star quarterback Ryan Miller she literally kisses anonymity goodbye. Now the annoyingly irresistible Ryan will stop at nothing to melt the heart of the ice queen and find out what makes her so special.

Unfortunately, Ryan is not the only person on to her secret. Will Jamie learn to contain her unstable powers before being discovered by the media or turned into a government lab rat?

More importantly, can she throw Ryan Miller off her trail before falling in love with him?

This book completely pulled me into Kelly's warped world of a teen superhero. From the very first page, this book kept me turning the pages. I couldn't help but to love the characters that Oram created. From the main protagonist (Jamie - with her sass and mishaps) to the love interest (Ryan - who you can't help but fall for), I enjoyed everything about these characters!

What starts off as an innocent kiss (against Jamie's better judgment) turns into something Jamie has no control over. You know what they say: No good deed goes unpunished. I laughed my butt off at Jamie's encounters with Ryan. It was one thing after another as Jamie tried to control her powers around Ryan. This book was so entertaining and a joy to read. There are some serious topics touched on in this novel too that makes this novel more than just humorous.

If you're looking for something new that has a great mix of superheroics, romance, and humor, then this is the book for you. I believe readers won't be disappointed in what Oram has created in a great comic novel!

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars

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Check out the book trailer!

Win Paranormalcy by Kiersten White!

**CONTEST CLOSED**

This is your chance to Win...

PARANORMALCY (ARC) by Kiersten White

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 @ 11:59pm (CST) September 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**

Review: Paranormalcy by Kiersten White

PARANORMALCY by Kiersten White

Pub. Date: August 2010

Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

Format: Hardcover, 352pp

Age Range: 12

Evie’s always thought of herself as a normal teenager, even though she works for the International Paranormal Containment Agency, her ex-boyfriend is a faerie, she’s falling for a shape-shifter, and she’s the only person who can see through paranormals’ glamours.

But Evie’s about to realize that she may very well be at the center of a dark faerie prophecy promising destruction to all paranormal creatures.

PARANORMALCY was one of my most highly anticipated reads this year. This book did not disappoint on all fronts - great characters, great writing, and a great plot that keeps you turning the pages. I devoured this book! One of the reasons I enjoyed this book so much has to do with the author’s personality. I follow Kiersten’s blog regularly and I just knew that I would love her book - especially if her personality shined through in her writing. Kiersten’s personality just sticks out and you can't help but adore her. So, it’s safe to say that I also adored the main protagonist Evie.

Evie is this quirky character full of wit and sass. She also has a pink rhinestone Taser. How could you not like a kick-ass character who loves pink? When you think kick-ass, pink is not one of those colors associated with someone you should be afraid of but Evie definitely pulls it off and she's quite cute and adorable too. The IPCA (International Paranormal Containment Agency) is full of supernatural creatures that hunt down other supernatural misfits (cleanups with vamps, werewolves, zombies, pixies, ghosts, evil spirits, fairies, gremlins, mermaids and anything else you can dream up) to keep humans unaware that these mythical creatures do exist. Evie is quite special amongst the rest with her unique ability to see-through glamour. On top of having great characters, laugh out loud dialogue, and a unique plot, PARANORMALCY has one of my favorite things to have in a book - two gorgeous guys vying for Evie's attention. All I can say is “It's good to be Evie.” Well, Evie may not feel that way per say but Kiersten created a great cast of characters.

PARANORMALCY brings a fresh spin to the paranormal world with its unforgettable characters that fill up the pages. Kiersten is an author to watch out for and I’ll be highly anticipating the sequel SUPERNATURALLY. Oh Bleep! I can't wait to see what Kiersten comes up with next!

Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Stars

Sensational 7 Q & A with Kiersten 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

Like most adults, I was once a teenager. However, I never outgrew it--literally. Standing at a daunting 4'11", I decided to write to my height peer group. Everyone knows that teenagers have more fun. Turns out writing for teenagers is more entertaining, too.

Born and raised in Utah, I was lucky enough to marry a native San Diegan and be adopted into the fish taco and beach culture. A stay-at-home mom and full-time writer (if you count scraping in whatever hours I can after my kids go to bed as full-time), I live with my wonderful husband and two adorable children in San Diego, CA. I'm currently twenty-six, but that's bound to change next year.

Desperate for entertainment, I started writing shortly after having my first baby and haven't stopped since. Being an author is quite literally a dream come true for a girl who spent every free childhood moment reading, and still spends most of her moments (free or otherwise) daydreaming.

When I'm not writing, I enjoy blogging and reading anything I can get my hands on. I probably need to branch out a bit in my hobbies.

PARANORMALCY hits shelves August 31, 2010!

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

My husband always likes to play this game, but my answer is always the same: I'd be dead in pretty much any historical era other than modern times. I'm a huge fan of modern medicine! However, I would love to see Greece in its glory days, Constantinople when it was in its prime, or the pyramids when they still had the outer layer of stone that was blindingly shiny in the sun.

Describe your novel in seven words or less?

Something you should really, really, really read.

Just kidding. Mostly. How about:

A fine line between normal and paranormal.

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

I can never pick a favorite! Recent favorite reads are The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks by E. Lockhart, and Anna and the French Kiss, by Stephanie Perkins.

As far as fictional crushes, you really can't go wrong with Mr. Darcy. Although as a teen I had a thing for Legolas--and that was before the movies!

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

Hermione Granger. You can't beat Hogwarts, she got to kiss several cute boys, and she's smart. What's not to like?

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

I'd say Ellen Page, Kristen Bell (who is very short!) or Dianna Agron (Quinn from Glee). I'm definitely quirkier than most leading ladies, and I think they could capture that well! If they weren't available, I'd opt for Ian McKellan or James Earl Jones. Who wouldn't want to be played by James Earl Jones?

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

Kiersten White: A Short Story

Because when you're 4'11", you can never have enough short jokes.

How would you describe yourself/life in seven words?

Nearly always happy but never enough sleep.

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 so excited for Paranormalcy's release, and thrilled at reader reactions so far! Thank you if you read it. If you read it, I hope you love it. And if you love it, I hope you tell your friends!

Up next: Paranormalcy's sequel, Supernaturally!

Thanks for stopping by Kiersten!

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

Monday Madness (55): Paranormalcy by Kiersten White

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.

PARANORMALCY by Kiersten White

Pub. Date: August 2010

Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers

Format: Hardcover, 352pp

Age Range: 12

Evie’s always thought of herself as a normal teenager, even though she works for the International Paranormal Containment Agency, her ex-boyfriend is a faerie, she’s falling for a shape-shifter, and she’s the only person who can see through paranormals’ glamours.

But Evie’s about to realize that she may very well be at the center of a dark faerie prophecy promising destruction to all paranormal creatures.

So much for normal.

 

Want More?

Order PARANORMALCY @ Amazon, Barnes and Noble, BooksAMillion, Borders & IndieBound

---

Check out the book trailer!

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

In My Mailbox (60)

For Review

Being Jamie Baker (Signed) by Kelly Oram (Thanks Kelly!)

Crusade (Crusade, #1) ARC) by Nancy Holder, Debbie Viguié (Courtesy of Simon Pulse)

Matched (ARC) by Ally Condie (Courtesy of Penguin Group USA)


 

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

Winners of Almost to Die For!

The Winners are...

ALMOST TO DIE FOR (Signed) by Tate Hallaway

WulfLuva

Dee (GoodChoiceReading)

Breanne

Liz

Elizabeth

I have already contacted the winners, please email me your addresseses within 48hrs

Thanks to everyone for participating!

Gone on Vacation!

I'm on Vacation this week for some fun in the sun and relaxation on the beach!

I'll be back next week...

Win Winter Longing by Tricia Mills!

**CONTEST CLOSED**
This is your chance to Win...

WINTER LONGING (ARC) by Tricia Mills

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 @ 11:59pm (CST) August 29, 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: Winter Longing by Tricia Mills

WINTER LONGING by Tricia Mills

Pub. Date: August 2010
Publisher: Penguin Group (USA) Incorporated

Format: Paperback, 256pp

Age Range: Young Adult
Source: Publisher

When Winter's boyfriend is killed in a plane crash in the Alaskan wilderness, she's robbed of the future she'd only just allowed herself to believe might be hers. Winter and Spencer had been destined for one another. And after his death, Spencer's presence continues to haunt her.

But when her next-door neighbor becomes an unlikely friend, Winter begins to accept all that she can't change. Can she open herself to a new future . . . and a possible new love?

To crush on your friend for as long as Winter crushed on Spencer, then only to have him taken away from her just when their relationship started was heartbreaking. Her family and friends stayed by her side throughout her grief over the loss of Spencer and it was heart-warming and heart-wrenching to experience. This book pulled me into the pages right from the start and it totally did not feel like I was reading a book but witnessing someone else's life.

Winter’s characterization felt so true to what one would likely emotionally experience at her age with love and loss. I could totally empathize with her. There is light at the end of the tunnel (Jesse Kerr). He’s so supportive and caring when it comes to Winter. How could you not fall for a guy like him? This novel was such a feel good read and I'm just glad it did not disappoint. I'm so picky when it comes to contemporary novels because I tend to put myself in the situation and critique the characters based off real life. But, it's safe to say Tricia Mills's portrayal of these characters were spot on.

WINTER LONGING takes readers on a journey of one's love, loss, and having the strength to move on as difficult as it may seem. This was a great read! I'll definitely be picking up more of Tricia Mill's books in the future.

Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars

In My Mailbox (59)

For Review

Torment (Fallen, #2) (ARC) by Lauren Kate (Courtesy of Random House Children's Books)

Adios, Nirvana (ARC) by Conrad Wesselhoeft (Courtesy of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt)

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

Win Bring on the Night by Jeri Smith-Ready!

**CONTEST CLOSED**
This is your chance to Win...

BRING ON THE NIGHT (WVMP Radio Series #3) by Jeri Smith-Ready

Thanks to Pocket Mass Market at Simon & Schuster Adult Publishing Division for the giveaway!

Pub. Date: July 27, 2010
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Adult Publishing Group
Format: Mass Market Paperback, 416pp

WHAT'S BLOOD GOT TO DO WITH IT?

Recovering con artist Ciara Griffin seems to finally have it all. A steady job at WVMP, the Lifeblood of Rock 'n' Roll. A loving relationship with the idiosyncratic but eternally hot DJ Shane McAllister. A vampire dog who never needs shots or a pooper-scooper. And after nine years, it looks as if she might actually finish her bachelor's degree!

But fate has other plans for Ciara. First she must fulfill her Faustian bargain with the Control, the paranormal paramilitary agency that does its best to keep vampires in line. Turns out the Control wants her for something other than her (nonexistent) ability to kick undead ass. Her anti-holy blood, perhaps? Ciara's suspicions are confirmed when she's assigned to a special-ops division known as the Immanence Corps, run by the Control's oldest vampire and filled with humans who claim to have special powers. To a confirmed skeptic like Ciara, it sounds like a freak fest. But when a mysterious fatal virus spreads through Sherwood—and corpses begin to rise from their graves—Ciara will not only get a crash course in zombie-killing, but will be forced to put her faith, and her life itself, in the hands of magic.

 
Rules: 5 Winners!

1. Link to blog: +1
2. Follow me on Twitter +1
3. Follower : +2

Total = 4 entries

Contest ends @ 11:59pm (CST) August 28, 2010. U.S. Residents Only (Sorry!).

Winner of Forget You by Jennifer Echols!

The Winner is...

FORGET YOU (ARC) by Jennifer Echols

Jessy

Please email me your address within 48hrs

Thanks to everyone for participating!

Win Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare!

**CONTEST CLOSED**
This is your chance to Win...

CLOCKWORK ANGEL (ARC) by Cassandra Clare

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 @ 11:59pm (CST) August 27, 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: Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare

CLOCKWORK ANGEL (The Infernal Devices Series #1) by Cassandra Clare

Pub. Date: August 2010

Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing

Format: Hardcover, 496pp

Age Range: Young Adult

Series: Infernal Devices Series, #1

Source: Publisher

Magic is dangerous—but love is more dangerous still.

When sixteen-year-old Tessa Gray crosses the ocean to find her brother, her destination is England, the time is the reign of Queen Victoria, and something terrifying is waiting for her in London's Downworld, where vampires, warlocks and other supernatural folk stalk the gaslit streets. Only the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the world of demons, keep order amidst the chaos.

Kidnapped by the mysterious Dark Sisters, members of a secret organization called The Pandemonium Club, Tessa soon learns that she herself is a Downworlder with a rare ability: the power to transform, at will, into another person. What’s more, the Magister, the shadowy figure who runs the Club, will stop at nothing to claim Tessa's power for his own.

Friendless and hunted, Tessa takes refuge with the Shadowhunters of the London Institute, who swear to find her brother if she will use her power to help them. She soon finds herself fascinated by—and torn between—two best friends: James, whose fragile beauty hides a deadly secret, and blue-eyed Will, whose caustic wit and volatile moods keep everyone in his life at arm's length . . . everyone, that is, but Tessa. As their search draws them deep into the heart of an arcane plot that threatens to destroy the Shadowhunters, Tessa realizes that she may need to choose between saving her brother and helping her new friends save the world. . . . and that love may be the most dangerous magic of all.

I've been anticipating this book - it seems like forever. To be able to continue visiting the world that Cassandra Clare has created is a special treat indeed. The Infernal Devices brings to readers a new cast of characters plus a few old ones from TMI (The Mortal Instruments).

It was easy to delve back into the world of Nephilim and Downworlders. CLOCKWORK ANGEL takes readers to the setting of London as Tessa Gray enlists the help of Will, Jem, Charlotte, Henry & Jessie to aid her in her search for her missing brother. My favorite warlock (Magnus Bane) also makes an appearance. I love the London setting in this book. Clare’s descriptions of 1800’s London put me smack-dead in the scenery right alongside the characters. The London setting also gives the story a whole new, dark and edgy feel as the cast set out on their mission to uncover the mystery behind the Magister and The Pandemonium Club.

I can't say enough great things about the cast in this book. Tessa is a heroine that I've enjoyed getting to know. Jem is a sweetheart and Will is mysterious as ever. Of course, Will is my favorite! I love the whole misunderstood thing he has going on - reminds me a bit of Jace Wayland from TMI. What’s not to like about that? Clare continues to lure me into the world that she's created. With a beautiful setting, fascinating characters, and dangerous intrigue, who could ask for anything more? No complaints here.

I can't wait to see what CLOCKWORK PRINCE - the next installment in this awesome series has in store. I don't think I could ever get tired of Clare's world. It’s so great to immerse yourself into her magical world for a little escapism!

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

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Review: Jealousy by Lili St. Crow

JEALOUSY (Strange Angels Series #3) by Lili St. Crow

Pub. Date: July 2010

Publisher: Penguin Group (USA)

Format: Paperback, 288pp

Age Range: Young Adult

Series: Strange Angels Series, #3

It's a good thing Dru Anderson is fast. Because the sucker chasing her isn't slowing down--and he won't rest until he has tasted her blood and silenced her heart . . .

Dru's best friend, Graves, and her strange and handsome savior, Christophe, are ready to help her take on the ultimate evil. But will their battle for Dru's heart get in the way of her survival?

In this installment, we pick up where BETRAYALS left off as St. Crow takes readers deep into the world and history of the Nosferatu. Being the only girl in the Schola Prima, Dru tries to fit in among the Djamphir and Wulfen while trying to discover the enemy from within.

Dru's memories of her mom's murder plague her through constant nightmares. What will she uncover? Will she discover who set her mom up? These are the questions that kept running through my head as the story progressed.

Dru also picks up some additional allies and enemies in this installment. Like Dru says, what else is new? But don't fret, she has her fierce protector in Graves and Ash (remember him - The Broken?). Graves has really stepped up to the plate in this installment. He's got swagger and he also has that alpha thing going on. But, he's still a sweetheart when he's around Dru. Te-he. Confession? I kept wondering when I would get a taste of some apple pie (Christophe that is). Even though he was always in the back of Dru's head, it took quite a few chapters for him to make an appearance and I was quite scared of his chances with Dru slipping away. Can you tell that I'm team Christophe? Sorry Graves - you're like a brother to me.

The plot thickens and we get a taste of everything in this installment from tender moments up to knee-jerking, action-packed scenes. This installment is even better than its predecessors even though I wanted more of Christophe. Believe me, when he finally did appear, he more than filled up the pages. I'm just glad I got to see more of Dru *cough* I mean Christophe. His scenes in the previous installments have always been sparse. There are two more installments in this series. I can only hope they're as good as this installment. If you are new to this series - you don't know what you're missing!

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

Review: Linger by Maggie Stiefvater

LINGER (Wolves of Mercy Falls Series #2) by Maggie Stiefvater

Pub. Date: July 2010

Publisher: Scholastic, Inc.

Format: Hardcover, 362pp

Age Range: Young Adult

Series: Wolves of Mercy Falls Series, #2

Source: Publisher

In Maggie Stiefvater's Shiver, Grace and Sam found each other. Now, in Linger, they must fight to be together. For Grace, this means defying her parents and keeping a very dangerous secret about her own well-being. For Sam, this means grappling with his werewolf past . . . and figuring out a way to survive into the future. Add into the mix a new wolf named Cole, whose own past has the potential to destroy the whole pack. And Isabelle, who already lost her brother to the wolves . . . and is nonetheless drawn to Cole.

At turns harrowing and euphoric, Linger is a spellbinding love story that explores both sides of love - the light and the dark, the warm and the cold - in a way you will never forget.

I love Maggie's writing style! Her words are mesmerizing which pulled me into the story page by page. First, I want to mention Sam and Grace. SHIVER managed to bring me to tears with the beauty of Grace's & Sam's love for each other. In the continuation of their journey together, it was nerve wrecking experiencing the turmoil that these two go through trying to cope with the changes of their bodies and their wants for the future. Sam struggles with his loyalty to the wolves while trying to do things that he never thought he could do before, while Grace plans for a future with Sam that's not likely to happen with her parents looming over her all of a sudden. Right at the start of this book, I got a sense of the struggle to come with these characters. I could not have imagined the impact this book would cause with the possibility of these two being torn apart - especially with how hard they fought to be together in SHIVER. Once again, I fell in love with these characters all over again.

LINGER'S alternating viewpoints between Grace, Sam, Cole, and Isabel lures you into the inner workings of these character's hopes, dreams, struggles, and more. You get up close and personal with what they have to deal with. There are some scenes in this book that took my breath away both in its beauty and complexity. Cole, the tortured rock star, his characterization was the most complex amongst the four. Cole's journey stood out to me more between the four. It was interesting being inside of his head as he embraced his wolf side to get away from his issues. His pairing with Isabel was special as she seemed to be the only one to break down his barriers. Isabel’s guilt about being responsible for her brother's death changed her and she's trying to escape just as the rest of them. I liked Isabel more and more in this installment for stepping up to the plate and encouraging Sam to do what's right. All of these characters seem to be trying to escape their past or outrun their future.

Maggie's brilliance and lovely prose and imagery captured my heart. She continues to amaze me with her writing and I can't wait to see what the next installment brings. Her characters are so flawed; you can't help but empathize with them. I can't get enough of the wolves of Mercy Falls and I can only hope that the final installment is as good as its predecessors. This series is a must read!

Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars

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