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Reviewing YA novels while working on my own YA novel. I may throw in the occasion random topic.
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A blurb from the author's webpage 
If anyone knew the truth about Beth Risk's home life, they'd send her mother to jail and seventeen-year-old Beth who knows where. So she protects her mom at all costs. Until the day her uncle swoops in and forces Beth to choose between her mom's freedom and her own happiness. That's how Beth finds herself living with an aunt who doesn't want her and going to a school that doesn't understand her. At all. Except for the one guy who shouldn't get her, but does....
Ryan Stone is the town golden boy, a popular baseball star jock-with secrets he can't tell anyone. Not even the friends he shares everything with, including the constant dares to do crazy things. The craziest? Asking out the Skater girl who couldn't be less interested in him.
But what begins as a dare becomes an intense attraction neither Ryan nor Beth expected. Suddenly, the boy with the flawless image risks his dreams-and his life-for the girl he loves, and the girl who won't let anyone get too close is daring herself to want it all....
My Take
Beth and Ryan definitely seem at odds in the beginning. Those situations always make for the best stories though. Beth is cast as an outsider from the beginning. Interestingly though, she does have a friend there but it’s also Beth’s internal feelings of being an outsider that make her distance herself from everyone. I liked the characters in this book. They were a group of close-knit kids. It was interesting to see how they differed from the inner city kids where Beth had come from. They were all close-knit, all just kids, but with very striking differences in some ways. I’m giving this one 4 daring kisses!
A short blurb from the author’s website: Flattered by the attentions of Nick, the cutest guy in school, seventeen-year-old Grace Warren, captain of the math team, lets down her guard and gets pregnant the night she loses her virginity. Hopeful that Nick will drop to one knee and propose when she breaks the baby news to him, Grace is heartbroken—Nick wants nothing to do with her. Her best friend, Jennifer, thinks she should get an abortion, but Grace is certain that her morally upright parents will insist that she keep the baby. After she comes clean to her folks, they surprise her by insisting that she terminate the pregnancy to avoid humiliating the family. But when she sees the fetus on the ultrasound, she decides she can't get rid of it. Deciding to save the tiny life growing inside of her, Grace must face the consequences of being that girl--the good girl who got knocked up.
My Take
I loved this book! I really liked how there were little vignettes on the more major characters. It really gave you a good glimpse into everyone and their reasoning for doing the things they do. The characters were wonderful; flawed, rich, full of life. I loved Grace for standing by her convictions, come what may. She was strong and vibrant. Great writing that sped along keeping me turning the pages. I’m giving this one 5 expectant kisses!
A quick bit from the
author's webpage:
I can’t weep. I can’t fear. I’ve grown talented at pretending.Elizabeth Caldwell doesn’t feel emotions . . . she sees them. Longing, Shame, and Courage materialize around her classmates. Fury and Resentment appear in her dysfunctional home. They’ve all given up on Elizabeth because she doesn’t succumb to their touch. All, that is, save one—Fear. He’s intrigued by her, as desperate to understand the accident that changed Elizabeth’s life as she is herself.
Elizabeth and Fear both sense that the key to her past is hidden in the dream paintings she hides in the family barn. But a shadowy menace has begun to stalk her, and try as she might, Elizabeth can barely avoid the brutality of her life long enough to uncover the truth about herself. When it matters most, will she be able to rely on Fear to save her?
I really did not see how the main character could get through the entire book devoid of emotion. I would say the author was successful in moving the story with that in place. Seeing emotions and elements as people was very interesting. I really was pulled into this story. Elizabeth was relatable, which I thought would be tough with an emotionless character.
The story took surprising turns and really kepy you gripped to it. You felt as though you truly knew the characters in the end. And what about that cover, huh?! Pretty awesome! I'm giving this one 4 1/2 emotion filled smaks!! <3
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free as part of an early book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
A short blurb about this book:
A teenager when she first gained fame, now a seasoned writer, Hinton offers in Some of Tim's Stories the culmination of her life experience- incisive portraits of characters shaped by circumstance and one another. The stories in this collection merge into a larger narrative about two cousins, Terry and Mike, whose lives and families are intertwined but whose paths lead to very different futures: one in prison, the other enduring a guilt-ridden existence working a bar.
The tales are made especially distinctive in the telling. The "author" of the stories is a bartender named Tim- the "Mike" of his own narrative-whose idiosyncrasies are perfectly captured in Hinton's intriguing use of metafiction. The book also features exclusive interviews with Hinton conducted by Teresa Miler, host of public televisions's Writing Out Loud.What a pleasure to again get to read a work from the author who began the Young Adult genre. S.E. Hinton is a master writer. Each of these stories was very insightful and by the end you felt as though you had a larger story overall. I loved the interview portion in back. I considered it an additional treat. S.E. Hinton's books are always timeless. In my opinion that is the mark of great writing. It can survive time and speak to generations of people and still be relevant. I'm giving this one 5 short kisses!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free as part of an early book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
It’s been four years since I slept, and I suspect it is killing me.
Instead of sleeping, Parker Chipp enters the dream of the last person he’s had eye contact with. He spends his nights crushed by other people’s fear and pain, by their disturbing secrets—and Parker can never have dreams of his own. The severe exhaustion is crippling him. If nothing changes, Parker could soon be facing psychosis and even death.
Then he meets Mia. Her dreams, calm and beautifully uncomplicated, allow him blissful rest that is utterly addictive. Parker starts going to bizarre lengths to catch Mia’s eye every day. Everyone at school thinks he’s gone over the edge, even his best friend. And when Mia is threatened by a true stalker, everyone thinks it’s Parker.
Suffering blackouts, Parker begins to wonder if he is turning into someone dangerous. What if the monster stalking Mia is him after all?
My TakeThis was such an interesting concept. I've always thought sleep and dreams were so thought provoking. Just dreams in themselves are somewhat mysterious. I mean sometimes you remember them, sometimes you don't; you dream of absolutely weird things and it's all beyond your control.
Getting a free pass inside Parker's mind and going on this sleepless ride with him will have you white-knuckling your way through the book. It's keep you up late material that is sure to keep you turning the pages well into the night.
I really loved Parker's relationships with Finn and Addie. Finn is his best friend and Addie is Finn's sister. The friendship between the boys is so realistic and Finn is just one cool character. I can't wait to read the rest of this series. I'm giving this one 4 1/2 sleepy kisses!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free as part of an early book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
By:
Lisa_Gibson,
on 5/9/2013
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A small synop from the author's webpage: Ella, Astrid and Sydney were planning the perfect summer after high school graduation. But when Astrid commits suicide, the girls’ world is shattered. Shouldn’t they have seen this coming? Couldn’t they have saved her?As Ella hunts for answers and Sydney tries to dull the pain, a chilling message from Astrid leaves them wondering whether their beloved friend is communicating from the after world. The girls embark on a journey to uncover Astrid’s dark secrets, and the answers to the questions they never dreamed of asking will change their lives–forever.
My Take
I really loved the characters in this book. They were so unique yet tied together through their friendship. I'm sure when a friend commits suicide, those left behind so shoulder those feelings of responsibility or at the very least have nagging questions as to why.
There was a line I loved in this book as well. Sydney was talking about her long time love interest Max (not the ideal guy for her). She said, "He wanted everything from her and nothing all at once." I know I've been there more than once! So perfectly said.
The story moved along at a decent pace. It didn't totally enthrall me, but I did like it. I'm giving this one 4 ghostly kisses!
By:
Lisa_Gibson,
on 4/23/2013
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Keep your friends close and your enemies closer. Isn’t that what they say?
But how close is too close when they may be one in the same?
The Seven Stages War left much of the planet a charred wasteland. The future belongs to the next generation’s chosen few who must rebuild it. But to enter this elite group, candidates must first pass The Testing—their one chance at a college education and a rewarding career.
Cia Vale is honored to be chosen as a Testing candidate; eager to prove her worthiness as a University student and future leader of the United Commonwealth. But on the eve of her departure, her father’s advice hints at a darker side to her upcoming studies – trust no one.
But surely she can trust Tomas, her handsome childhood friend who offers an alliance? Tomas, who seems to care more about her with the passing of every grueling (and deadly) day of the Testing. To survive, Cia must choose: love without truth or life without trust.
My Take
“The Testing”, the first in a trilogy, was fabulous! While it did remind me of the Hunger Games, it’s very different as well. As Cia went through the testing she came to understand her own strength, yet also held on to her humanity. She realized that in working together and connecting to other human beings that we are ourselves stronger. The building relationship between her and Tomas was not too over the top, and added a great element to the story. I would definitely recommend this book and am already anticipating the next book in this series. Btw, on the right side bar I've posted a free link to read the prequel and see the trailer. Please go check it out. Enjoy! I’m giving this one 5 grade A kisses!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free as part of an early book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
By:
Lisa_Gibson,
on 4/18/2013
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Here's a quick quip from the book's goodreads page:
He can grant her wishes, but only she can save his life.
Margo McKenna has a plan for just about everything, from landing the lead in her high school play to getting into a good college. So when she finds herself in possession of a genie's ring and the chance to make three wishes, she doesn't know what to do. Why should she put her life into someone else's hands?
But Oliver is more than just a genie -- he's also a sophomore at Margo's high school, and he's on the run from a murderer. As he and Margo grow closer, she discovers that it will take more than three wishes to save him.
A whole lot more.I loved this book! I could not put it down. It moved like the wind and swept me up into just as easily. It also gets one to thinking what you would do if you were granted three wishes. It does require thought and planning. You begin to see missteps and where things could go terribly wrong. This book was just so enjoyable but at the same time very white knuckleish in places. The characters were great. Margo while likable is not too nice and I think that's a great thing. Oliver...well don't we all wish we had a guy who could be exactly who'd we like him to be and grant our deepest wishes?! :) Definitely put this one in the TBR pile. Right on the top. I've giving this one 5 magical kisses!!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free as part of an early book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
By:
Lisa_Gibson,
on 4/16/2013
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Here's a little blurb from the books
goodreads page:
Fifteen-year-old Izzy Brannick was trained to fight monsters. For centuries, her family has hunted magical creatures. But when Izzy’s older sister vanishes without a trace while on a job, Izzy's mom decides they need to take a break.
Izzy and her mom move to a new town, but they soon discover it’s not as normal as it appears. A series of hauntings has been plaguing the local high school, and Izzy is determined to prove her worth and investigate. But assuming the guise of an average teenager is easier said than done. For a tough girl who's always been on her own, it’s strange to suddenly make friends and maybe even have a crush.
Can Izzy trust her new friends to help find the secret behind the hauntings before more people get hurt?
Rachel Hawkins' delightful spin-off brings the same wit and charm as the New York Times best-selling Hex Hall series. Get ready for more magic, mystery and romance!
My Take
I've been reading quite a few stories with ghosts and spirits lately. I just must be in a supernatural frame of mind. Rachel Hawkins never seems to be a disappointment either. I've always loved her stories.
Izzy is quite the spirited (pun intended) girl! I like the premise of this story as well. I'm sure we will have an opportunity to read more abou the Brannick clan and their antics. I enjoyed this book. The characters were cool, not too over the top (a good thing) and relatable. Love the romance building between Izzy and Dex. Ghost hunting, monster killing seems completely plausible. Giving this one 4 spirited kisses!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free as part of an early book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
A short bit about the book from it's
goodreads page:
Forever is a long time to be stuck in high school.
Seventeen-year-old Paige is dead, the victim of a freak fall from the roof during Physics class. Now she’s a ghost, permanently bound to the grounds of her high school. It isn’t all bad, she can
find out everyone’s secrets, which can be amusing—for a while. But then Paige hears something that isn’t amusing at all: the rumor spread by the most popular girl at school that her death wasn’t an accident—that she supposedly jumped on purpose. Paige is desperate to stop the gossip, but what can a ghost do? Then Paige discovers something amazing. She can possess living people when they think of her, and she can make them do almost anything. Maybe, just maybe, she can get inside the girl
who’s responsible for the stories. . . and have a little fun turning the tables while she’s at it.
Katie Williams’s second novel is a suspenseful page-turner full of eerie wit and a touch of the otherworldly.
My Take
This book was a great ride. Paige is dead, sadly so. She's a great lead character. The truth reveled at the end was shocking. I loved this book. It wasn't predictable and that's one of the things that I loved. Paige is full of wit and humor. I would definitely recommend this book and am giving it 5 ghostly kisses!!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free as part of an early book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
A short blurb from the Goodreads page: A popular cheerleader—raped, beaten, and left for dead. An edgy outsider with a gift. Can they team up to catch a killer?
Bea’s life has been a mess ever since she got kicked out of private school and sent to rehab. Now clean, Bea is starting over at Packard High School, in a city shaken from two assaults on young women. The latest victim, Willa Pressman—the one who survived—doesn’t remember a thing. But Bea has a disturbing new “skill”: she can see—and then draw—images from other people’s minds. And when she looks at Willa, Bea is shocked by what she sketches. Bea might be the only one who knows Willa’s secrets—and who can take down the killer before he strikes again
My Take:
This book was edge of your seat material. It really moved so fast and I loved the characters, especially Bea. The twists and turns were exciting and Bea (while not perfect by any means) is extraordinary. I’m excited to read more about her exploits. I’m giving this little gem 5 sketchy kisses!!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free as part of an early book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
A bit from the author's webpage:
There is no cure for being stung.
Fiona doesn't remember going to sleep. But when she opens her eyes, she discovers her entire world has been altered - her house is abandoned and broken, and the entire neighborhood is barren and dead. Even stranger is the tattoo on her right hand - a black oval with five marks on either side - that she doesn't remember getting but somehow knows she must cover at any cost. She's right.
Those bearing the tattoo have turned into mindless, violent beasts that roam the streets and sewers, preying upon the unbranded while a select few live protected inside a fortress-like wall, their lives devoted to rebuilding society and killing all who bear the mark.
Now Fiona has awakened branded, alone - and on the wrong side of the wall.
My Take:Stung was awesome! One of the best books I’ve read in a while. It was fast paced with unexpected turns around each corner. I could not put it down and read it in two days. It’s set in Denver which was also kind of a neat little thing for me, since I live very near Denver. The storyline was spectacular and the characters were wonderful. And isn't the cover cool too?! I’m giving this one 5 big stinging smaks!!
Here's a bit from Harper Collins site: “My name is Harriet Manners, and I am a geek.”
Harriet Manners knows that a cat has 32 muscles in each ear, a “jiffy” lasts 1/100th of a second, and the average person laughs 15 times per day. She knows that bats always turn left when exiting a cave and that peanuts are one of the ingredients of dynamite.
But she doesn’t know why nobody at school seems to like her.
So when Harriet is spotted by a top model agent, she grabs the chance to reinvent herself. Even if it means stealing her best friend's dream, incurring the wrath of her arch enemy Alexa, and repeatedly humiliating herself in front of impossibly handsome model Nick. Even if it means lying to the people she loves.
Veering from one couture disaster to the next with the help of her overly enthusiastic father and her uber-geeky stalker, Toby, Harriet begins to realise that the world of fashion doesn't seem to like her any more than the real world did.
My Take:
Geek Girl was a great read! Harriet Manners is quirky, fun and the kind of girl you can relate to. She knows all these interesting facts that she can’t help but share. I really loved the characters in this book. Some of them aren’t always who you think they’re going to be and I found that so refreshing. I’m giving Geek Girl 4 air kisses, so as not to muss the makeup! ;)
“I’ve left some clues for you.
If you want them, turn the page.
If you don’t, put the book back on the shelf, please.”
So begins the latest whirlwind romance from the New York Times bestselling authors of Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist. Lily has left a red notebook full of challenges on a favorite bookstore shelf, waiting for just the right guy to come along and accept its dares. But is Dash that right guy? Or are Dash and Lily only destined to trade dares, dreams, and desires in the notebook they pass back and forth at locations across New York? Could their in-person selves possibly connect as well as their notebook versions? Or will they be a comic mismatch of disastrous proportions?
Co-written by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan, co-author of WILL GRAYSON, WILL GRAYSON with John Green (LET IT SNOW, THE FAULT IN OUR STARS), DASH & LILY'S BOOK OF DARES is a love story that will have readers perusing bookstore shelves, looking and longing for a love (and a red notebook) of their own.
My Take:
I love this book! Can you say rich, vibrant characters?! This book definitely has them. Lily is quirky, but in the best sense of that word (story for another time on the NOT so good side of quirky). Dash was, well...quite dashing and intriguing. Loved these characters and their interaction. They melded well together. The whole idea of the notebook was fantastic! I don't know that I would have had the nerve to follow through with it all, but it was one great read. They were funny, easy to like and interesting enough to keep the story crusin' along. I'm giving this one 5 daring kisses!
Brief Synopsis of the Movie: When newcomer Lena Duchannes arrives in the small town of Gatlin, she quickly captures the attention of Ethan Wate, who only wants to escape what he views as a boring and dead-end town. He quickly gets more than he bargained for, as Lena possesses strange powers that have long kept her at a distance from others in her life. Lena and Ethan are drawn together, but their budding romance is threatened by the dangers posed by Lena's being a Caster and her family's Dark powers, for upon her sixteenth birthday Lena must undergo the Claiming, a process that will decide her fate forever: Light or Dark.
My Take:
My son and I got tickets to an advanced screening of Beautiful Creatures! Very exciting. :) I loved the books and was hopeful for the film. I don't feel that it disappointed in any way. I love the cast! Jeremy Irons and Viola Davis, what's not to love. The acting was great, the effects were pretty awesome. I really enjoyed the fact that there was quite a bit of humor thrown into the mix. Not overly sappy or silly. Definitely put this on your must see list!! Casting five big kisses for this one.
Here's a blurb from the
author's webpage:
“Where’s Polly?” I asked as I dropped the bucket down the well. “Did you pass by the blacksmith’s?”
“I spoke with her mother, with Mistress Logan,” Mother answered softly, looking at her neat rows of carrots.
“And?” I waved a mosquito away from my face.
“It happened quickly. Polly sewed by candlelight after dinner. Her mother repeated that over and over, ‘she sewed by candlelight after dinner.’ And then she collapsed.”
I released the handle and the bucket splashed, a distant sound.
“Matilda, Polly’s dead.”
August 1793. Fourteen-year-old Mattie Cook is ambitious, adventurous, and sick to death of listening to her mother. Mattie has plans of her own. She wants to turn the Cook Coffeehouse into the finest business in Philadelphia, the capital of the new United States.
But the waterfront is abuzz with reports of disease. “Fever” spreads from the docks and creeps toward Mattie’s home, threatening everything she holds dear.
As the cemeteries fill with fever victims, fear turns to panic, and thousands flee the city. Then tragedy strikes the coffeehouse, and Mattie is trapped in a living nightmare. Suddenly, her struggle to build a better life must give way to something even more important – the fight to stay alive.
My Take:I wasn't so sure that I would like this book. On occasion I have a hard time with books set deep into the past. I really liked this book a lot though. The story was wonderful. Mattie is a great character. I thought of all that 14 year olds had to deal with back in those days. I don't think kids now could make it through. Heck, I don't know that I would make it through it! Ms. Anderson is a wonderful writer whose characters breathe and the story is alive among the pages. I'm giving this one 5 feverish kisses!
Here's a blurb from
Macmillian's site: Radley’s parents had warned her that all hell would break loose if the American People's Party took power. And now, with the president assassinated and the government cracking down on citizens, the news is filled with images of vigilante groups, frenzied looting, and police raids. It seems as if all hell
has broken loose.
Coming back from volunteering abroad, Radley just wants to get home to Vermont, and the comfort and safety of her parents. Travel restrictions and delays are worse than ever, and by the time Radley’s plane lands in New Hampshire, she’s been traveling for over twenty-four hours. Exhausted, she heads outside to find her parents—who always come, day or night, no matter when or where she lands—aren’t there.
Her cell phone is dead, her credit cards are worthless, and she doesn’t have the proper travel papers to cross state lines. Out of money and options, Radley starts walking. . . .
Illustrated with 50 of her own haunting and beautiful photographs, this is a vision of a future America that only Karen Hesse could write: real, gripping, and deeply personal.
My Take:This book was very interesting. Radley spent the first part of the book so alone, you could almost feel her despondance. I was relieved once she met up with Celia and Jerry Lee. As she begins to piece together a life and work her way back home to try to set her old life right again, she learns what has happened in her absence and comes to understand just how strong she really is. While not for everyone, I liked the book well enough. The pictures that accompanied the story were lovely. I'm giving this one 3 1/2 safe kisses!
Oh and now for the legal mumbo jumbo: Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free as part of an early book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
A brief bit from the
author's website:
Macy’s summer stretches before her, carefully planned and outlined. She will spend her days sitting at the library information desk. She will spend her evenings studying for the SATs. Spare time will be used to help her obsessive mother prepare for the big opening of the townhouse section of her luxury development. But Macy’s plans don’t anticipate a surprising and chaotic job with Wish Catering, a motley crew of new friends, or … Wes. Tattooed, artistic, anything-but-expected Wes. He doesn’t fit Macy’s life at all–so why does she feel so comfortable with him? So … happy? What is it about him that makes her let down her guard and finally talk about how much she misses her father, who died before her eyes the year before? Sarah Dessen delivers a page-turning novel that carries readers on a roller coaster of denial, grief, comfort, and love as we watch a broken but resilient girl pick up the pieces of her life and fit them back together.
My Take:I picked this book up towards the end of summer and thought maybe it would be a way to usher the summer out and fall in. Loved the characters in this book! Especially those on the more quirky side. The grief that Macy is carrying around with her every day was so huge, but she didn't see the elephant (of her grief) strapped to her back. Watching the love between she and Wes develop was wonderful. It was like a gift that eased the burden of all of that grief and made it all more manageable. I think so often we go through life thinking we can manage it all, no matter how great the weight. It was nice to see her grow in the end to realize that it's not so bad to need to lean on someone at times. I'm giving this one 5 sawoony kisses! Oh, and tomorrow is my birthday!! Woo hoo!!
Here's a brief bit from the author's webpage:
In this fresh, poignant novel, Mike is struggling to come to terms with her father's suicide and her mother's detachment from the family. Mike (real name: Mary Elizabeth) is gay and likes to pump iron, play softball, and fix plumbing. When a glamorous new girl, Xanadu, arrives in Mike's small Kansas town, Mike falls in love at first sight. Xanadu is everything Mike is not —cool, confident, feminine, sexy.... straight.
Julie Anne Peters has written a heartbreaking yet ultimately hopeful novel that will speak to anyone who has ever fallen in love with someone who can't love them back.
National Book Award finalist Julie Anne Peters has written a compelling novel about coming out, finding love, and discovering your place in the world. Alyssa's story will speak to anyone who has known the joy and pain of first love and the struggle to start over again.
My Take:
I liked this book and always appreciate the fact that there are love stories out there for the LGBT community. Ms. Peters books are always well written and great stories. Mike Szabo falls in love with Xanadu, the new girl in town. I started to find it frustrating that Mike kept trying to force the relationship between she and Xanadu. I understand how difficult and frustrating it must be to love someone that will never love you back in the way that you would like them to. The characters were great, very real and I absolutely loved Mike's friend, Jamie. I would recommend this book and am giving it 4 chaste kisses!
A short blurb about the book from it's
goodreads page:
Juliette hasn’t touched anyone in exactly 264 days.
The last time she did, it was an accident, but The Reestablishment locked her up for murder. No one knows why Juliette’s touch is fatal. As long as she doesn’t hurt anyone else, no one really cares. The world is too busy crumbling to pieces to pay attention to a 17-year-old girl. Diseases are destroying the population, food is hard to find, birds don’t fly anymore, and the clouds are the wrong color.
The Reestablishment said their way was the only way to fix things, so they threw Juliette in a cell. Now so many people are dead that the survivors are whispering war– and The Reestablishment has changed its mind. Maybe Juliette is more than a tortured soul stuffed into a poisonous body. Maybe she’s exactly what they need right now.
Juliette has to make a choice: Be a weapon. Or be a warrior.My thoughts:Okay, I read this book awhile back. I've been terrible about updating this blog. However, I will say that this book really stuck with me. I loved it from page one. My fingers flew to turn the page. It was suspensful and just a great story all the way around. There were times that the descriptions got to be a bit much, but I really did love this book. I can't wait to read the other books in this series. I'm giving this one 4 1/2 air kisses (since Juliette can't touch anyone). :)
A Golden Light Anthology 5 Book Collection!
Thank you so much for hosting me on A Golden Light Anthology's Blog Tour! I'm so glad to be here and present to all of you our brand new releases! A Golden Light Anthology 5 Book Collection has been such a special project and I'm thrilled to be able to introduce the books to all of you.
A 5 book collections means that there is a book for just about every taste, too - from science fiction and fantasy to historical fiction, a young adult anthology, a children's anthology, and our Christian anthology. All are filled with some of the most talented authors around. I'm sure you'll agree that A Golden Light Anthology series is something special.
Without further ado - the books!
*Don't miss the giveaway at the end of this post!*
A little about the books -Gaslight: A Golden Light Anthology~
From the very first story by award winning author J.S. Dunn, to the last story in the anthology, readers will be swept away to various time periods with an array of characters - from ancient seafaring towns to the Ottoman Empire and everywhere in between. You'll find stories about World War I, The Civil War, and even a fantastic steampunk story - all wrapped up in Gaslight: A Golden Light Anthology.
Gaslight is an eclectic array of historical short stories that includes historical, historical romance, historical fantasy, and so much more!
I have to add that the authors contributing to this anthology are without a doubt some of the best writers of historical fiction out there. Yes, I may be biased, but I believe it's true. I think you'll agree, though, and once you read their stories in Gaslight I'd like to encourage you to check out their other books. You won't be disappointed.
Limelight: A Golden Light Anthology features tales of new worlds and old worlds and worlds yet to be. These stories twist and turn with adventure, intrigue, and wonder. This anthology of short stories brings science fiction and fantasy out of the shadows and into the limelight.
Authors Edward W. Robertson, John Grover, James S. Dorr, Ela Lond, Sergio Palumbo, Larissa Hinton, Jessica B. Zeidler, Katy Huth Jones, Alexandra Baker, Catriel Ceballos, Domyelle Rhyse, and Bill Blume spin tales of old and new, of fantasy or alternate realities. These stories wrap around the future, the unknown, and the fantastic. You may be surprised at where they’ll lead…
Take my hand and step into the light with Limelight: A Golden Light Anthology.
Spotlight: A Golden Light Anthology features young adult stories of hope. Themes of rejection and forgiveness, of loss and triumph, of loneliness and friendships, of struggles and determination, of betrayal and overcoming, lace each story.
Authors Deborah Prum, Sarah Meira Rosenberg, T.K. Richardson, Alexandra Singer, Tucker Cummings, Lynda Lee Schab, Jason Hinz, Carmen Tudor, and Lisa Marie Lopez offer stories grounded in reality or sprinkled with fantasy, but feature main characters that face real issues – issues that are often hidden in the darkness.
Step out of the shadows and into the light with Spotlight: A Golden Light Anthology.
Nightlight: A Golden Light Anthology
Do you remember those nights when you switched on your nightlight or flashlight and read books under the covers?
How about those memories of your mom, dad, or grandma reading your favorite story over and over again?
Yes, the sweet events of childhood that stay with us forever...
Nightlight: A Golden Light Anthology wishes to create these memories for the children of today. Filled with colorful images and stories that are both exciting and sweet, this anthology of children's bedtime stories is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Stories of fairies and wizards, of summer camp and family vacations, and stories of family and friends fill this children's book. Imagine spending that extra few minutes reading to your child right before they drift off to sleep. Or letting them read Nightlight themselves while you listen to them.
The memories you share together will last a lifetime, encourage literacy, a love of reading, and most importantly you'll set aside that special time at the end of the day - when work and play are done - to just be together.
That's how I envision children reading Nightlight and that was the intention compiling this children's anthology. The stories, and the authors contributing to this ebook, are hands down some of the very best.
I hope you'll get a copy, switch on the nightlight, and read it with your child.
Lamplight: A Golden Light Anthology is filled with stories and poems of faith. From the very first selection by author Seth D. Clarke to the final poem titled Benediction by David Andrews, this Christian anthology reaches in and touches the heart, inspires faith, and is filled with hope.
We live in a tumultuous world. The evening news is filled with more bad than good. War, hunger, and loss seem to be the headlines and sometimes (or daily) we need that little bit of something that is good, that sees the darkness around us and shines a heavenly light on life.
And that's exactly what Lamplight does - it shines a light of faith and hope. The stories and poems in this anthology are real, are touching, are beautifully written, and fill that darkness with a ray of sunshine. They're not fluffy or preachy, but rather these stories and poems are uplifting.
The scripture that really inspired this anthology - "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light for my path."
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We hope you'll check them out!Find our titles on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, iPad, Copia,
Sony Reader, Kobo, and everywhere ebooks are sold.
Committed to excellence in book publishing, Chamberton believes the pillars of a society are founded on great literature and that each book leaves an indelible stepping stone for the future. We are currently focusing on publishing anthologies in a wide array of genres. Find our titles on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, and everywhere books and ebooks are sold. Sign up for our newsletter to be notified of new releases!
Here's a little bit from the author,
TK's website:
Lilly’s gift of reading the heart seemed like a curse, but when she discovered her gift was linked to an old, Russian prophecy it changed everything. What she never questioned, though, was her own heart.
When the prophecy pulls Lilly back to Russia and demands to be fulfilled she is torn between love and loyalty. She must make the most difficult decision of her life and choose between the two. But Lilly’s decision is farther reaching than even she is willing to acknowledge. It stretches from East to West - from the past to the future.
Lilly discovers there’s more to the old prophecy than she realized and enemy forces are bent on stopping it from unfolding.
One thing is certain - there will be casualties. And sparing those closest to her may be impossible. While Seth attempts to shield Lilly from the truth, Nikolai reveals secrets that could change everything.
As Lilly falls into the arms of Russia she must decide: will love or loyalty reign? And can she live with the consequences? Two sides compete for Lilly’s heart and she must find the answers she needs before her enemies find her.
My Take
This is the second in the series. I fell for the characters in the first book Return the Heart and have continued my love affair with them through
Here's a bit from the
author's webpage:
High school junior John Keats was never a close friend of schoolmate and literary prodigy Gordon Byron. At his best and worst, Keats was a distant, envious admirer of Gordon's talents, fame, and "player" lifestyle. That changes when their mutual friend, Shelly, mysteriously drowns. After stealing Shelly's ashes, the boys set a course for the small Lake Erie Island where Shelly's body had washed ashore and to where, according to Gordon, she wished to be returned. As they navigate obstacles and resist temptations during their odyssey, Keats and Gordon glue together the shattered pieces of Shelly's and their own pasts while attempting to make sense of her premature end.
Outrageous, poignant and in subtle homage to Lord Byron's classic
Don Juan,
SO SHELLY captures the indomitable spirit of Romanticism while confronting contemporary issues of sexuality, dysfunctional families, suicide, poverty, racism, alcohol and drug use, the hidden costs of popularity and fame, and friendship and while exploring themes of death, dying, grief, abandonment, abuse, and belonging.
My TakeAdmittedly, it took me a while to get around to reading this book. For that, I'm profoundly sorry. But I
can say that I really, really loved this book. I can't count the number of times that I laughed out loud while reading it. The author, Ty Roth, deftly mixes humor amongst the darker themes for a great balance. Keats is a funny fellow. He's a great narrator with keen observations. As the story of the three unfolds, the characters take shape. Gordon is the most colorful of the three and his character demands to stand out. He craves attention constantly. Keats is a pallid sidekick who pines for Shelly, but feels too inadequate in Gordon's wake to ever speak up. Shelly has her own unrequited love, only it's directed towards Gordon. We get to know her better as the story of their past gets revealed. Keats deep self examination throughout the book gives him more shape and as he evolves becomes quite endearing.
This was a lovely book and the info given at the end regarding the actual Keats, Byron and Shelley was extremely interesting. I thought that since I knew little of Keats, Byron and Shelley that may get in the way of enjoying this book. Not in the slightest though. It was a wonderful story with a very contemporary message about living in the now and being present in every moment. Something we can all use a little reminder about from time to time. I'm giving this one 5 shiny kisses!!
First, let me say sorry for taking ages to post reviews here lately. I've been busy with life's happenings though, and I appreciate everyone understanding that. :) You're all the greatest!
Here's a quick bit about Brother/Sister by Sean Olin from it's
goodreads page:
Will and Asheley have a troubled past. Their father left them when they were little, and their mother has just been carted off to an alcohol treatment center. Now, they have the house to themselves, and an endless California summer stretching out before them. Through alternating perspectives, they tell the story of how and why their lives spun violently out of control - right up to the impossibly shocking conclusion you'll have to read for yourself to believe.
My TakeWill and Asheley are close siblings. Their lives have been in the shambles pretty much from the start and things are only getting worse. This book really makes you think about how one wrong choice ignites others and can set someone in a tailspin. That being said, there was a fair amount of mental illness in this book as well. Very rarely does someone escape a traumatic upbringing completely unscathed. This is as much about the heartbreaking events as well as the undoing of these characters (heartbreaking in its own right) as anything else.
I thought it was well written and gripping. While somewhat disturbing in the events that take place, it's gritty reality at the same time. I'll give this one 4 shattered stars.
I'm thrilled to be a stop on T.K. Richardson's blog tour. T.K. is always a pleasure to interact with and she's one great writer. I loved Return the Heart and can't wait to read and post my review of Shield the Heart. Stay tuned for the review. Take it away T.K.!
Hi Lisa, thanks for hosting this stop on the blog tour for Shield the Heart!
The theme for this blog tour is a little different and I hope all of you will enjoy it. It’s titled ‘A Russian Tour’ because each day during the blog tour we’ll explore the Russian cities and historical sites that are the backdrop for my new YA novel Shield the Heart.
Sometimes the setting of a novel is so interesting and unique that it deserves a closer look, and that’s why I thought this blog tour would be so much fun. ‘A Russian Tour’ will give my readers a chance to get a better view of where everything in Shield the Heart takes place.
After all, these are the places that have inspired me, and I hope they inspire all of you, too.
Today on our itinerary we’re visiting Kozelsk, Russia!
3 Comments on Shield the Heart Blog Tour Stop, last added: 3/3/2012
Gotta go and pick this up. The setting enough has peaked my interest. I just read an amazing story set in this Steampunk world. I really enjoyed the way the entire setting was so creative and thought provoking. Its worth the read
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