Review: Fever by Lauren DeStefano

Title: Fever
Author: Lauren DeStefano
Publish Date: February 21, 2012
Genre: YA, dystopian
Pages: 341
Series: The Chemical Garden #2
1. Wither (review)
2. Fever
3. Untitled (expected pub 2013)

**WARNING: SPOILERS**

Synopsis:
Rhine and Gabriel have escaped the mansion, but danger is never far behind.

Running away brings Rhine and Gabriel right into a trap, in the form of a twisted carnival whose ringmistress keeps watch over a menagerie of girls. Just as Rhine uncovers what plans await her, her fortune turns again. With Gabriel at her side, Rhine travels through an environment as grim as the one she left a year ago - surroundings that mirror her own feelings of fear and hopelessness.

The two are determined to get to Manhattan, to relative safety with Rhine’s twin brother, Rowan. But the road there is long and perilous - and in a world where young women only live to age twenty and young men die at twenty-five, time is precious. Worse still, they can’t seem to elude Rhine’s father-in-law, Vaughn, who is determined to bring Rhine back to the mansion...by any means necessary.

In the sequel to Lauren DeStefano’s harrowing Wither, Rhine must decide if freedom is worth the price - now that she has more to lose than ever.

From Goodreads

One of my favourite things when I read Wither last year, was the relationship between Rhine and Gabriel. He’s honestly one of my favourite love interests. I was not disappointed with Fever in regards to Gabriel. Now that he and Rhine have escaped the mansion, he is constantly at her side, fighting for her, fighting with her, and doing the best he can in a very unfamiliar environment.

I really have to commend Lauren for the liberties she takes in YA. Fever contains a lot of risque topics, such as prostitution, drugs, and attempted rape. Perhaps it’s because kids these days are exposed to so much more, that it doesn’t really matter if they see it in one more place. Either way, I think it’s ballsy, and commendable, of Lauren to do it in such a justifiable way. It really shows the state of the world that Rhine lives in, so I think it brings a lot to the story.

There are a lot of new characters that we meet as Rhine and Gabriel head to Manhattan. A lot of the characters were very different, and were another thing that shows the state of the world. There was Madame, the ringmistress who I hate with a passion, Lilac, who is a realist and optimist, Maddie, who didn’t let her physical disabilities rule her life, Claire, who has the biggest heart, and more.

I was turning the pages so quickly as I neared the end. S*** was going down! I had one status update around page 290 and all I could write was “Gabriel” over and over again. No spoilers here, but he’s all I could think about for much of the end of the book. So if you’re a big fan of Gabriel, like I am, then prepare yourself.

I can’t wait for the third book. I think I know what the storyline might be because of the end of Fever, but I’m still dying while waiting. We (as a public) still have no title, no cover, and no synopsis! Lauren has all of these things as of now... and I’m jealous. But I’m excited to see what’s next, and don’t know if I can wait a year!

Waiting on Wednesday (55)

"Waiting on" Wednesday is a weekly meme, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that showcases upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating!





This week I'm waiting on a few sequels due out this summer!

*WARNING: Since these are are sequels, the synopses HAVE SPOILERS!*

Dreamless (Starcrossed #2) by
Josephine Angelini
Publication Date: May 29, 2012

Synopsis:
As the only Scion that can enter Hades at will, Helen descends to the Underworld in search of a way to overcome the Furies and end the cycle of revenge that has cursed the Scions. But she’s running out of time. Each descent weakens her both in mind and spirit. A mysterious stranger might be her only salvation, but the price may be her love for Lucas Delos.

As an unforgettable love triangle emerges, Josephine Angelini’s compelling saga becomes ever more intricate and spellbinding. The eagerly awaited sequel to the internationally bestselling Starcrossed, Dreamless delivers with a huge emotional impact that will leave readers satisfied—and longing for more.

From Goodreads

Why I want it: Starcrossed was one of my favourite reads from last summer. I love the mythology that Josie weaves and can't wait to dive back into her world.

Rapture (Fallen #4) by Lauren Kate
Publication Date: June 14, 2012

Synopsis:
The sky is dark with wings....

Like sand in an hourglass, time is running out for Luce and Daniel. To stop Lucifer from erasing the past they must find the place where the angels fell to earth. Dark forces are after them, and Daniel doesn’t know if he can do this—live only to lose Luce again and again.

Yet together they will face an epic battle that will end with lifeless bodies... and angel dust. Great sacrifices are made. Hearts are destroyed. And suddenly Luce knows what must happen.

For she was meant to be with someone other than Daniel. The curse they’ve borne has always and only been about her—and the love she cast aside. The choice she makes now will be the only one that truly matters.

In the fight for Luce, who will win?

The astonishing conclusion to the FALLEN series. Heaven can’t wait any longer.

From Goodreads

Why I want it: Last book in one of my favourite series. That's all there is to it.

Mirage (Winterhaven #2) by Kristi Cook
Publication Date: June 5, 2012

Synopsis:
Seventeen-year-old Violet McKenna is back for her senior year at Winterhaven, and thrilled to be with Aidan after a long summer apart. But when a violent and disturbing vision begins to haunt her, Violet suddenly feels unsure of everything: who to trust, if she is in danger, and—worst of all—whether she and Aidan are really meant to be together.

From Goodreads

Why I want it: I really, really enjoyed Haven and all the characters Kristi has created. Also, I'm looking forward to some of my questions being answered!

What upcoming releases are you looking forward to?

Teaser Tuesday (47)

Teaser Tuesday is a weekly meme, hosted by MizB of Should be Reading. Just do the following:

Grab your current read

Open to a random page

Share two "teaser" sentences from somewhere on that page

DO NOT INCLUDE SPOILERS (make sure that what you share doesn't give too much away, so that you don't ruin the book for others)

Share the title and author so that other participants can add the book to their TBR list is they like your teasers!

I'm *FINALLY* reading Victoria Schwab's debut novel, The Near Witch. Yes, it came out last summer, and yes, I bought it last fall. So now I'm finally reading it. Here's my teaser this week:

"There's a stranger," Otto grunts into his cup. "Came through last night."
I fumble the kettle, nearly scalding my hands.
"A stranger?" I ask, steadying the pot. So it wasn't a dream or a phantom. There was someone there.

I'm still just at the beginning of this because I didn't have much time to read this weekend. But I have a few days of downtime, and I'm sure I'll fly through it quickly. I'm excited!

Feel free to share your teasers with me! I'd love to see what you're reading.

Author Interview: Augusta Blythe

I'm really excited to have author Augusta Blythe on the blog today promoting her second self-published novel, Ravenstoke! This book is the sequel to her debut novel, Winterborne, and second in the Universe Unbound series. Before we get to the interview, here's some more information about Ravenstoke!

Synopsis:
In Winterborne, Loie and Mia's seventeenth birthdays brought more drama and surprises than they ever expected. Now, in Ravenstoke, they are adjusting to the aftermath and struggling to keep those newfound powers in check. When Andreas is called away to England under mysterious circumstances, a new guy is sent to Salcey Ridge in his place. Cian is smarmy and cocksure and Loie wants nothing more than to unleash a hellhound on him. Unfortunately, Cian isn't the only complication in their lives as the girls must also contend with the reappearance of Mr. Winterborne himself and Loie's most dreaded fear of all - a part in the school musical. Can the girls survive the rest of junior year unscathed?

From Goodreads

Interview

Describe Ravenstoke in 5 words or less.
Banter, beasts, the school musical.

What made you want to write about an evolved race of humans?
I love mythology and the amazing world people created in order to explain the natural world. I wanted to look forward as well as back and see where the human race might be headed, albeit with a fantastical bent rather than sci-fi.

Do you have a song playlist for the book/series that you would be willing to share with readers?
I am a sucker for all the Glee albums, but partial to the one featuring the Warblers. I also listened to a lot of Keane for reasons which are obvious if you’ve read Ravenstoke.

What can you tell us about the next book in the series, The Yawning Void?
It will wrap up Loie and Mia’s story as the issues between Ancients and Universals come to a head. We’ll also get to know more about Cian and see which side he’s playing for.

This or That:
Coffee or tea? Both, although I only do fancy pants coffees like caramel lattes. And I live in England so tea is a requirement.
M&Ms or Skittles? M&Ms, hands down.
Paper books or eBooks? Both. I’m not a smelling-the-pages kind of person, but I love the way my covers look in print. Equally, I love the convenience of ebooks.
Beach retreat or camping vacation? Beach retreat! If there’s no spa shower with a view of the ocean, it’s not for me.
Harry Potter or Twilight? HP. Hermione rocks and I can’t wait

**********

Thanks for taking the time to answer my questions, Augusta!

Here's where you can find more information about Augusta Blythe and her books:

Visit her blog
Follow her on Twitter
Like her on Facebook
Buy her books on Amazon
Add Winterborne (Universe Unbound #1) to your Goodreads shelf
Add Ravenstoke (Universe Unbound #2) to your Goodreads shelf

Review: The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter

Title: The Goddess Test
Author: Aimee Carter
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Publish Date: April 19, 2011
Genre: YA, mythology
Pages: 293
Source: Received
Series: The Goddess Test #1
1. The Goddess Test
2. Goddess Interrupted (March 27, 2012)
3. Goddess Inheritance (expected pub Apr 2013)

Synopsis:
EVERY GIRL WHO HAS TAKEN THE TEST HAS DIED.

NOW IT'S KATE'S TURN.

It's always been just Kate and her mom--and her mother is dying. Her last wish? To move back to her childhood home. So Kate's going to start at a new school with no friends, no other family and the fear that her mother won't live past the fall.

Then she meets Henry. Dark. Tortured. And mesmerizing. He claims to be Hades, god of the Underworld--and if she accepts his bargain, he'll keep her mother alive while Kate tries to pass seven tests.

Kate is sure he's crazy--until she sees him bring a girl back from the dead. Now saving her mother seems crazily possible. If she suceeds, she'll become Henry's future bride and a goddess.

IF SHE FAILS...

From Goodreads

I’ve always been a big fan of Greek mythology, so I love these myth retellings in YA lately. The myth of Persephone seems to be a popular one to retell, but this is the first I’ve read.

Kate is a really strong character. She’s selfless: she only cares about saving her mother and she even saves a girl who has been terrible to her in the beginning. And later on, she’s not focused on what she wants, but on helping Henry. I liked how she was strong and independent, and seemed to be a more adult character right from the beginning. It didn’t seem farfetched. At the age of 18, and after all that she’d been through, Kate really was a young woman who was coming into herself and learning who she wanted to be.

The story caught me by surprise. I knew Kate had to pass seven tests, but for some reason I had more epic tests in mind. Like some physical tests and more adventure. However, the fact that these weren’t the types of tests in the book didn’t deter me from the story at all. I loved how Kate didn’t always know if she was being tested or not. It really showed you that she was being tested more as a person than on anything superhuman.

I liked Henry, but it was always weird thinking of him as this young-looking guy when he spoke so formally and properly. I think the formal talk made him seem a bit stiff to me. But I always believed the words he said and the feelings he expressed. The secondary characters, like Ava, James, and Kate’s mom, were fun to get to know. They each had their part to play in Kate’s journey, and I think they were well developed. I hope to see more of the same secondary characters in the next book.

The love story was really sweet. It was a truer love, where Kate didn’t know she was falling until she realized that she was worried Henry didn’t care for her. It was gradual. It was surprising. And I find that these are two things that make me believe the characters are really in love. Not the pining or the lust. But the growing of a relationship over time. And I can’t wait to see that relationship grow and be tested in the next book, Goddess Interrupted!

Review: Bargains and Betrayals by Shannon Delany

Title: Bargains and Betrayals
Author: Shannon Delany
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Publish Date: August 16, 2011
Genre: YA, paranormal
Pages: 303
Series: 13 to Life #3
1. 13 to Life (review)
2. Secrets and Shadows (review)
3. Bargains and Betrayals
4. Destiny and Deception (January 31, 2012)
5. Rivals and Retribution (August 7, 2012)

**WARNING: SPOILERS**

Synopsis:
Locked away at Pecan Place, Jessie finds her situation to be even more dangerous than she feared. While she struggles to maintain her sanity and discover answers about the group that seems less and less like any legitimate government agency, Pietr fights to keep their relationship alive. But very aware that his mother’s time is running out, Pietr makes a deal he doesn’t dare tell Jessie about. Because the deal Pietr’s made could mean the death of far more than his tenuous relationship with the girl he loves.

From Goodreads

Pietr and Jess are one of my favourite YA couples. I like how their relationship started out fairly normal (with the exception of the werewolf thing). What I mean is that they started more as friends, and then took it further, before eventually falling in love. And in Bargains and Betrayals, their relationship is tested more than ever. This time it’s not just a friend getting in the way. It’s the CIA and the Mafia. And time itself.

This book picks up right where Secrets and Shadows left off, actually reiterating that last scene in 3rd person narrative. It was a great refresher of the cliffhanger ending, but also gave us more insight and dialogue than we had from Jessie’s point of view. After that prologue, we get the first glimpse of what’s going on in Alexi’s head, as he’s a new narrator in the story. This was a great idea on Shannon’s part, especially because Jessie’s locked away in the mental hospital. It allows us not only to get to know Alexi as a character, but to see what’s going on outside of Pecan Place. We are able to keep some track on what Pietr is doing to rescue both his mother and Jess. Meanwhile, Jess is piecing together information on Pecan Place and those who run it. And finding out that there is something seriously wrong with that place.

I love this book the most out of the three in the series that I’ve read so far. There’s so much mystery and conspiracy that it really kept me reading. And the setting changed a lot between Alexi and Jessie’s narratives, which I like. It keeps the pace of the story moving. I also loved how Jess and Pietr were finally officially together and didn’t have to hide their feelings anymore. Even though they weren’t literally together for a while, they were still able to be open and loving, just the way I’ve been waiting for them to be for so long! And then there's the sexual tension in this book... *fans self*. HOT! I loved it all!

I have book 4, Destiny and Deception sitting on my shelf and I don’t think I’ll wait too long before reading it. I can’t keep myself away from Jess and Pietr for too long.

Waiting on Wednesday (54)

"Waiting on" Wednesday is a weekly meme, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that showcases upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating!





This week I'm celebrating May 8th releases! There's so many good books due to come out on this day... and it's less than 4 weeks away!

Struck by Jennifer Bosworth
Publication Date: May 8, 2012

Synopsis:
Mia Price is a lightning addict. She’s survived countless strikes, but her craving to connect to the energy in storms endangers her life and the lives of those around her.

Los Angeles, where lightning rarely strikes, is one of the few places Mia feels safe from her addiction. But when an earthquake devastates the city, her haven is transformed into a minefield of chaos and danger. The beaches become massive tent cities. Downtown is a crumbling wasteland, where a traveling party moves to a different empty building each night, the revelers drawn to the destruction by a force they cannot deny. Two warring cults rise to power, and both see Mia as the key to their opposing doomsday prophecies. They believe she has a connection to the freak electrical storm that caused the quake, and to the far more devastating storm that is yet to come.

Mia wants to trust the enigmatic and alluring Jeremy when he promises to protect her, but she fears he isn’t who he claims to be. In the end, the passion and power that brought them together could be their downfall. When the final disaster strikes, Mia must risk unleashing the full horror of her strength to save the people she loves, or lose everything.

From Goodreads

Why I want it: 2012 Debut Author. Lightning addict main character. Other than that, I feel like the synopsis has a lot of words, but doesn't explain much. It still has me intrigued.

Until I Die (Revenants #2) by Amy Plum
Publication Date: May 8, 2012

**WARNING: SPOILERS**

Synopsis:
Kate and Vincent have overcome the odds and at last they are together in Paris, the city of lights and love.

As their romance deepens there’s one question they can’t ignore: How are they supposed to be together if Vincent can’t resist sacrificing himself to save others? Although Vincent promises that he’ll do whatever it takes to lead a normal life with Kate, will that mean letting innocent people die? When a new and surprising enemy reveals itself, Kate realizes that even more may be at stake — and that Vincent’s immortality is in jeopardy.

In Die for Me, Amy Plum created a captivating paranormal mythology with immortal revenants and a lush Paris setting. Until I Die is poised to thrill readers with more heart-pounding suspense, spellbinding romance, and a cliff-hanger ending that will leave them desperate for the third and final novel in the series.

From Goodreads

Why I want it: Sequel to a book that I loved! I'm excited to continue Kate and Vincent's love story. And see more of Jules, of course ;).

City of Lost Souls (The Mortal Instruments #5) by Cassandra Clare
Publication Date: May 8, 2012

**WARNING: SPOILERS**

Synopsis:
The demon Lilith has been destroyed and Jace has been freed from her captivity. But when the Shadowhunters arrive to rescue him, they find only blood and broken glass. Not only is the boy Clary loves missing–but so is the boy she hates, Sebastian, the son of her father Valentine: a son determined to succeed where their father failed, and bring the Shadowhunters to their knees.

No magic the Clave can summon can locate either boy, but Jace cannot stay away—not from Clary. When they meet again Clary discovers the horror Lilith’s dying magic has wrought—Jace is no longer the boy she loved. He and Sebastian are now bound to each other, and Jace has become what he most feared: a true servant of Valentine’s evil. The Clave is determined to destroy Sebastian, but there is no way to harm one boy without destroying the other. Will the Shadowhunters hesitate to kill one of their own?

Only a small band of Clary and Jace’s friends and family believe that Jace can still be saved — and that the fate of the Shadowhunters’ future may hinge on that salvation. They must defy the Clave and strike out on their own. Alec, Magnus, Simon and Isabelle must work together to save Jace: bargaining with the sinister Faerie Queen, contemplating deals with demons, and turning at last to the Iron Sisters, the reclusive and merciless weapons makers for the Shadowhunters, who tell them that no weapon on this earth can sever the bond between Sebastian and Jace. Their only chance of cutting Jace free is to challenge Heaven and Hell — a risk that could claim any, or all, of their lives.

And they must do it without Clary. For Clary has gone into the heart of darkness, to play a dangerous game utterly alone. The price of losing the game is not just her own life, but Jace’s soul. She’s willing to do anything for Jace, but can she even still trust him? Or is he truly lost? What price is too high to pay, even for love?

Darkness threatens to claim the Shadowhunters in the harrowing fifth book of the Mortal Instruments series.

From Goodreads

Why I want it: I don't even need to read that HUGE synopsis to want to read it. Book 5 in The Mortal Instruments series. That's all there is to it.

First Comes Love by Katie Kacvinsky
Publication Date: May 8, 2012

Synopsis:
Like his name, Gray is dark and stormy. Dylan, a girl always searching for what's next, seemingly unable to settle down, is the exact opposite: full of light and life. On the outside, they seem like an unlikely couple. But looks can be deceiving and besides, opposites attract.

What starts as friendship, turns into admiration, respect and caring, until finally these two lone souls find they are truly in love with each other.

But staying in love is not as easy as falling in love. If Dylan and Gray want their love to last, they're going to have to work at it. And learn that sometimes love means having to say you're sorry.

From Goodreads

Why I want it: LOVED Katie's debut novel, Awaken, and I'm interested to see her take on contemporary romance. Also because I like how this book focuses on after the "honeymoon" phase of love.


What upcoming releases are you looking forward to?

Teaser Tuesday (46)

Teaser Tuesday is a weekly meme, hosted by MizB of Should be Reading. Just do the following:

Grab your current read

Open to a random page

Share two "teaser" sentences from somewhere on that page

DO NOT INCLUDE SPOILERS (make sure that what you share doesn't give too much away, so that you don't ruin the book for others)

Share the title and author so that other participants can add the book to their TBR list is they like your teasers!

I'm just starting to read Lauren DeStefano's sophomore novel, Fever. This teaser is from the first few pages:

I thought the freedom would excite me, and it does, but there's terror, too. A steady march of what-ifs making their way through all of my deliciously attainable hopes.
What if he's not there?
What if something goes wrong?
What if Vaughn finds you?
What if...

I've honestly just started this, so I don't have much to say yet. But I am really excited to jump back into Rhine's world!

Feel free to share your teasers with me. I'd love to see what you're reading!

Review: Ravenstoke by Augusta Blythe

Title: Ravenstoke
Author: Augusta Blythe
Publisher: self published
Publish Date: December 4, 2011
Genre: YA, paranormal
Pages: 164 (ebook)
Source: From author for review
Series: Universe Unbound #2
1. Winterborne (review)
2. Ravenstoke
3. The Yawning Void (expected pub unknown)

**WARNING: SPOILERS**

Synopsis:
In Winterborne, Loie and Mia's seventeenth birthdays brought more drama and surprises than they ever expected. Now, in Ravenstoke, they are adjusting to the aftermath and struggling to keep those newfound powers in check. When Andreas is called away to England under mysterious circumstances, a new guy is sent to Salcey Ridge in his place. Cian is smarmy and cocksure and Loie wants nothing more than to unleash a hellhound on him. Unfortunately, Cian isn't the only complication in their lives as the girls must also contend with the reappearance of Mr. Winterborne himself and Loie's most dreaded fear of all - a part in the school musical. Can the girls survive the rest of junior year unscathed?

From Goodreads

I enjoyed Ravenstoke much more than I did Winterborne. I had a big issue with Loie in the first because of her lack of confidence in herself and how she always felt that she was second best to Mia. But she is a stronger character in this second instalment of the Universe Unbound series, and it was great to see her coming into herself.

In Ravenstoke, Andreas is training Loie to control her newfound powers, and also teaching her about Universals and Ancients. When he leaves for England for an undetermined amount of time, Loie is concerned about her training. She’s not too impressed when she meets Cain (pronounced KEEN) and he takes over her training. On top of that, Mia signs them up for Drama club so they can take a trip with the group over to London to find Andreas. And the icing on the cake is that Mr. Winterborne wants to play a bigger role in Loie’s life, which only makes her more upset with him.

I really need to address the matter of Cain. I seriously love him. Even when I hated him or wasn’t sure about him, I still really loved him. And I think he and Loie are great for one another, mostly because she doesn’t take his bull and he puts up with her stubbornness. He was a great trainer, too, because he didn’t hold Loie back like Andreas seemed to. Regardless of what we learn about him, I still think his part in this story was so important for the growth of Loie as a character.

We got to visit more than just Salcey Ridge in this book. Loie and Mia jet off to London and then we also see some of the Welsh countryside, and we also get a glimpse at where Mr. Winterborne’s been hiding, in Sanctuary. I think it gave the story depth to see more than just their small town.

I wasn’t sure about reading Ravenstoke because I wasn’t crazy about Winterborne, but I’m really glad I read it. It really was better than the first. And I will definitely be looking forward to the next book, and getting more information about it!

Thanks to Augusta for the ebook review copy!

In My Mailbox (39)

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme that gives bloggers a chance to share what books they've received in the last week. It's hosted by The Story Siren and you can find out more info about it here.




I haven't done an IMM in a while because I've actually been good about not spending my non-existent money on books. So this collection has been gathered over the last month. Here's what I got:

Bought
Hallowed (Unearthly #2) by Cynthia Hand {Goodreads | Book Depository | Amazon}
Immortal City by Scott Speer {Goodreads | Book Depository | Amazon}

Bought
The Iron Queen (Iron Fey #3) by Julie Kagawa
{Goodreads | Book Depository | Amazon}

For Review
Intangible by J. Meyers {Goodreads | Amazon}
Thanks to the author for the ebook review copy!

Borrowed
Destiny and Deception (13 to Life #4) by Shannon Delany
{Goodreads | Book Depository | Amazon}
New Girl by Paige Harbison {Goodreads | Book Depository | Amazon}
Fracture by Megan Miranda {Goodreads | Book Depository | Amazon}

Half of these were just acquired yesterday, so I don't feel like I've been hoarding a bunch of books that I got and just not telling you ;).

Hallowed and Immortal City were gifts to myself for completing my teaching placements. I'm officially a teacher!! I'm looking forward to a summer of just working and reading and laying by the pool. And of course, devouring all the books I've been meaning to read for so long!

What did you get this week?

10% Off At The Book Depository!

Good news, friends!

The Book Depository is having a sale! For the next month, enter the code APMA12 at checkout and get an extra 10% off their already amazing prices! And remember, there's free shipping worldwide!

Act quickly, because the deal is only on until May 14, 2012.

Get started by clicking here:

Judging a Book by Its Cover (6)

I do Judging a Book by Its Cover randomly, when I collect several book covers that I think are worthy of being judged as awesome! You can see all my Judging a Book by Its Cover posts here.

Links will direct you to the corresponding Goodreads pages.

Beta by Rachel Cohn | October 16, 2012
The Curiosities: A Collection of Stories by The Merry Sisters of Fate | October 1, 2012

Middle Ground (Awaken #2) by Katie Kacvinsky | November 20, 2012
Crewel by Gennifer Albin | October 16, 2012

The Forsaken by Lisa M. Stasse | July 10, 2012
The Waiting Sky by Lara Zielin | August 2, 2012

The Treachery of Beautiful Things by Ruth Frances Long | August 16, 2012
The Glimpse by Claire Merle | June 7, 2012

Tiger Lily by Jodi Lynn Anderson | July 3, 2012
Skylark by Meagan Spooner | October 1, 2012

Slated by Teri Terry | May 3, 2012
The Last Princess by Galaxy Craze | May 1, 2012

I love that most of these are 2012 debut authors! They're getting so lucky with the covers. There's no doubt that all these authors will be well known soon enough, because their books are going to be swept off the shelve so quickly!

What do you think of these covers? Which ones are you anticipating the most? Let me know in the comments!

Happy Reading!

Review: Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Title: Mockingjay
Author: Suzanne Collins
Publisher: Scholastic Press
Publish Date: August 24, 2010
Genre: YA, dystopian
Pages: 390
Series: The Hunger Games #3
1. The Hunger Games (review)
2. Catching Fire (review)
3. Mockingjay

**WARNING: SPOILERS!**

Synopsis:
Katniss Everdeen, girl on fire, has survived, even though her home has been destroyed. Gale has escaped. Katniss's family is safe. Peeta has been captured by the Capitol. District 13 really does exist. There are rebels. There are new leaders. A revolution is unfolding.

It is by design that Katniss was rescued from the arena in the cruel and haunting Quarter Quell, and it is by design that she has long been part of the revolution without knowing it. District 13 has come out of the shadows and is plotting to overthrow the Capitol. Everyone, it seems, has had a hand in the carefully laid plains - except Katniss.

The success of the rebellion hinges on Katniss's willingness to be a pawn, to accept responsibility for countless lives, and to change the course of the future of Panem. To do this, she must put aside her feelings of anger and distrust. She must become the rebels' Mockingjay - no matter what the personal cost.

From Goodreads

With all the hype around The Hunger Games right now because of the movie, I feel like my thoughts are jumbled. I tend to push away from anything with a lot of hype until some of the hype has died down, which is why I’ve been putting off writing this review. I thought that the hype might translate into me writing a negative review.

Mockingjay is a fantastic finale to the series. I can’t believe all that happens to the characters and Panem in general. Katniss is no longer making decisions and running her own life. She’s a pawn to the people of District 13 and still one to President Snow and the Capitol. And you should know by now that Katniss isn’t one to sit back and let others tell her what to do.

Watching the relationship between Gale and Katniss grow while Peeta was kept prisoner of the Capitol was interesting. Even though Katniss isn’t quite convinced, she does love Peeta. She doesn’t yet realize that she’s not just trying to keep him alive because of a promise, but because she loves him. And when they do meet again . . . let’s just say it’s not the big reunion I was expecting.

The revolution is in full swing in this book. The districts are gradually rebelling against the Capitol and their Peacekeepers. Katniss and Gale get the opportunity to see the destruction from the front lines, both in the districts and in the Capitol. But all she can do is be the poster child, the Mockingjay, for the rebellion. She’s stuck getting made up and shoved in front a camera to film promos, encouraging the other districts to rebel and showing them what the Capitol is doing.

Mockingjay really is a powerful novel. There’s so much going on in terms of politics, relationships, personal conflicts, and more. And seeing it through Katniss’s eyes, the ones of a girl who never wanted to be what she’s become, we see the conflict and desire of one citizen of Panem, looking for peace in a war-torn world.

Waiting on Wednesday (53)

"Waiting on" Wednesday is a weekly meme, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that showcases upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating!





This week I'm waiting on a debut that's due out this month!

Unraveling by Elizabeth Norris
Publication Date: April 24, 2012

Synopsis:
Two days before the start of her junior year, seventeen-year-old Janelle Tenner is hit by a pickup truck and killed—as in blinding light, scenes of her life flashing before her, and then nothing. Except the next thing she knows, she's opening her eyes to find Ben Michaels, a loner from her high school whom Janelle has never talked to, leaning over her. And even though it isn't possible, she knows—with every fiber of her being—that Ben has somehow brought her back to life.

But her revival, and Ben's possible role in it, is only the first of the puzzles that Janelle must solve. While snooping in her FBI agent father's files for clues about her accident, she uncovers a clock that seems to be counting down to something—but to what? And when someone close to Janelle is killed, she can no longer deny what's right in front of her: Everything that's happened—the accident, the murder, the countdown clock, Ben's sudden appearance in her life—points to the end of life as she knows it. And as the clock ticks down, she realizes that if she wants to put a stop to the end of the world, she's going to need to uncover Ben's secrets—and keep from falling in love with him in the process.

From debut author Elizabeth Norris comes this shattering novel of one girl's fight to save herself, her world, and the boy she never saw coming.

From Goodreads

Why I want it: To be honest, I'm just really intrigued by this book. I've reread the synopsis a few times, but feel like I won't be able to wrap my mind around what it's about until I read it. Also, Elizabeth is a debut author!

What upcoming releases are you looking forward to?

Teaser Tuesday (45)

Teaser Tuesday is a weekly meme, hosted by MizB of Should be Reading. Just do the following:

Grab your current read

Open to a random page

Share two "teaser" sentences from somewhere on that page

DO NOT INCLUDE SPOILERS (make sure that what you share doesn't give too much away, so that you don't ruin the book for others)

Share the title and author so that other participants can add the book to their TBR list is they like your teasers!

I devoured the second book in Augusta Blythe's self-published Universe Unbound series, Ravenstoke. I seriously couldn't put it down. And so I have to share a teaser with you! Here it is:

Then I remember that I'm not wearing any pants. Oh crikey, what underpants am I wearing? Please don't be Hello Kitty. They were a gift; I didn't choose them.

"Do you need mouth to mouth," a male voice says, "because I'd be happy to oblige?"

"Not necessary," I finally say after emptying the water from my lungs.

"Well, hello Kitty. Thanks for the show. I sure enjoyed your riverdance with the kelpie," he says.

Definitely longer than 2 lines, but HA! I loved this part. It's our first introduction to Cian and he's a fun character... for the most part. He's got a special place in my heart.

I highly recommend this series, even though it's self-pubbed, and I know some people have issues with that. But there are no spelling or grammar mistakes and I never notice any problems with flow. Winterborne is the first book. And they're only $2.99 each on Amazon!

Feel free to share your teasers with me! I'd love to see what you're reading.

Review: The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith

Title: The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight
Author: Jennifer E. Smith
Publisher: Poppy/Little, Brown and Co.
Publish Date: January 2, 2012
Genre: YA, contemporary
Pages: 236

Synopsis:
Who would have guessed that four minutes could change everything?

Today should be one of the worst days of seventeen-year-old Hadley Sullivan's life. She's stuck at JFK, late to her father's second wedding, which is taking place in London and involves a soon to be step-mother that Hadley's never even met. Then she meets the perfect boy in the airport's cramped waiting area. His name is Oliver, he's British, and he's in seat 18C. Hadley's in 18A.

Twists of fate and quirks of timing play out in this thoughtful novel about family connections, second chances and first loves. Set over a 24-hour-period, Hadley and Oliver's story will make you believe that true love finds you when you're least expecting it.

From Goodreads

This book was adorable. I don’t read contemporary romances a lot. Not because I don’t enjoy them, but they always seem to take a backseat to all of my paranormal reads. When I do pick them up, I love to find one that’s as great as The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight.

Love at first sight is a really rare thing, but also one of those things that you ache for. I think the best thing about it is that, when it happens, it blind-sides you. You don’t even know you’ve lost your heart. But you’re definitely a goner. At least that’s how I imagine it. And I feel like that’s what happened to Hadley.

Hadley is dismissive of love. She doesn’t really believe in it. Especially not in marriage. Not since her dad took off to teach at Oxford and fell in love with someone else, breaking up their family. So Hadley doesn’t think much about the boy in the airport that offers to help with her suitcase and shares a table with her for dinner. He’s cute. Nice. A distraction from the claustrophobia that’s overwhelming her in the cramped terminal, and the airplane miles in the sky. But he’s about to change her life.

The thing that surprised me the most about this book was how so much of it took place in London. Probably the whole second half of the book. I was expecting most of it to take place while they were in the air, and that that was where we’d learn the most about Hadley and Oliver. But I actually liked how it wasn’t like that. After seeing the way Hadley spoke about her father and his bride, it was interesting to watch all of her interactions with them through her eyes.

I don’t want to give any spoilers, but there’s this one point in the book where you know that Hadley is a goner. That she’s lost her heart. And although she thinks her actions are irrational, I found them beautiful and touching. She and Oliver are both very interesting characters and I think they fit so well together. Just over the course of 24 hours, the majority of which were spent apart, they created a bond and a relationship that’s true and hopefully ever-lasting.

I definitely recommend this to anyone that enjoys a good contemporary love story!