REVIEW: My Misadventures as a Teenage Rock Star by Joyce Raskin

Description

Rock ’n’ roll isn’t just about sex and drugs. It’s about self-expression, lasting friendships, and self-empowerment. That’s what Alex learns after she starts playing bass for a rock band in this almost true story. Joyce Raskin, author and musician, culls from her memories to create this funny, touching, and honest look at what it’s like to be a teenager, a girl, and a rock star all at the same time.

Also included are a note from the author, instructions on how to play basic guitar chords, advice on songwriting, and more!

Details

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Paperback: 112 pages
• Publisher: Graphia (June 13, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0547393113
• ISBN-13: 978-0547393117

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER / NETGALLEY

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

This book is such a strong, positive story for younger teens.  My niece (15 and a reluctant reader) read a few chapters of it and declared it "real, this is how real kids my age talk".  She really wanted a copy of her own. Alex is truly the perfect character to portray the hopes and dreams of young teens everywhere.  She is smart, funny and doubts herself all at the same time.

When Alex decides to take up the bass to be in a rock band, she learns that she has to keep her nails short, deal with groupies, hours of practice and being true to herself.  The book has adorable drawings and at the end, the author has a chapter on how to start your own rock band while staying true to yourself.  Raskin also points out the issues of alcohol and drug abuse in such a way to give kids the strength to say no.

I received this book from the publisher at no expense for my honest review.  This book doesn't come out until June, but I feel it is such an important book for teen girls, the word need to be spread now!

REVIEW: The Gathering by Kelley Armstrong

Description

Strange things are happening in Maya's tiny Vancouver Island town. First, her friend Serena, the captain of the swim team, drowns mysteriously in the middle of a calm lake. Then, one year later, mountain lions are spotted rather frequently around Maya's home—and her reactions to them are somewhat . . . unexpected. Her best friend, Daniel, has also been experiencing unexplainable premonitions about certain people and situations.
It doesn't help that the new bad boy in town, Rafe, has a dangerous secret, and he's interested in one special part of Maya's anatomy—her paw-print birthmark.

About the Author

Kelley Armstrong is the author of the New York Times bestselling Darkest Powers trilogy, which includes The Summoning, The Awakening (which debuted at number one), and The Reckoning. 

Details

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Hardcover: 368 pages
• Publisher: HarperCollins (April 12, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0061797022
• ISBN-13: 978-0061797026

SOURCE:  AROUND THE WORLD ARC TOURS

MY THOUGHTS
REALLY LIKED IT

Like any new series, there is a lot of set up for the characters and story development.  This one had a really slow start for me and I found myself struggling to get into the story.  I stuck with it and by found myself enchanted by the whole group of characters and now I can't wait to read the next one to see what happens next.  There are so many unanswered questions I have after finishing this one up.


What really happened to Maya's best friend, Serena? How could she possibly have drown since she was the captain of the swim team? What is the deal with Maya's birthmark?  Is Rafe really as bad as he seems? What is wrong with Daniel and is there something more to him than meets the eye?  What the heck is the deal with the medical research company that runs the area?  ARGHHH!  There, I feel better.  I tried to do this without giving away any of the plot, but I must say, I have tons of questions that I really need to know the answers to.  I guess that is what makes a series worth reading.

I really like Maya since she was strong and vulnerable with an open mind.  She never discounted any theory about anything that came across her path.  Rafe was an enigma to me and since the most of the book really centered around Maya and her history, I am sure that he will be developed more in the next book.  There is more to Daniel than meets the eye or at least that is the way I read it.  I hope I am right and I read more about him in the next installment.

Overall, I would recommend this to anyone over thirteen.  There are some instances of violence, a few bad words, implied sexual situations and some alcohol/drug use. The alcohol use seems common in this group of kids, yet the do seem to be responsible.  Again, the parents are there, but not, just like in real life. 

I received this book through an advance reader group at no charge for my honest review.

REVIEW: Choker by Elizabeth Woods

Description

Sixteen-year-old Cara Lange has been a loner ever since she moved away from her best and only friend, Zoe, years ago. She eats lunch with the other girls from the track team, but they're not really her friends. Mostly she spends her time watching Ethan Gray from a distance, wishing he would finally notice her, and avoiding the popular girls who call her "Choker" after a humiliating incident in the cafeteria.

Then one day Cara comes home to find Zoe waiting for her. Zoe's on the run from problems at home, and Cara agrees to help her hide. With her best friend back, Cara's life changes overnight. Zoe gives her a new look and new confidence, and next thing she knows, she's getting invited to parties and flirting with Ethan. Best of all, she has her BFF there to confide in.

But just as quickly as Cara's life came together, it starts to unravel. A girl goes missing in her town, and everyone is a suspect—including Ethan. Worse still, Zoe starts behaving strangely, and Cara begins to wonder what exactly her friend does all day when she's at school. You're supposed to trust your best friend no matter what, but what if she turns into a total stranger?

Details

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Hardcover: 240 pages
• Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing (January 4, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 144241233X
• ISBN-13: 978-1442412330

SOOURCE:  PUBLISHER / NETGALLEY

MY THOUGHTS

LOVED IT

I really enjoyed this mystery - psychological thriller.  The blurb above pretty much tells you everything about the book except the ending.  I pretty much gave up trying to write a review about the actual story since all of the minor details end up pointing to the ending and I would hate to give that away.  If you are a careful reader, you can pretty much figure out "who did it" before the end of the book since there are several clues nicely placed through out the story.   This one is geared towards older teens since there is alcohol/drug use, sexual situations and language. 

REVIEW: Over the Moon by Jodi Picoult

Description

Master storyteller and bestselling author Jodi Picoult teams up with Jake van Leer and Ellen Wilber to bring you an original musical, sure to breathe life into any middle-school and high school drama curriculum. Part Shakespearean comedy and part Fractured Fairy Tales, Over the Moon is all fun. Narrated by a cross-dressing Hairy Godmother (no, that’s not a typo), the story begins when Luna (the moon) descends to a small town on earth disguised as a boy, and sets out to help humans find love. But Luna herself falls in love with Prince Jack... who’s in love with Felicity... who has fallen for Luna. On the way to happily ever after are a steady stream of clever puns and topical jokes about American Idol, universal health care, Bernie Madoff, and just about every fairy tale creature you’ve ever heard of! With nineteen original hum-worthy songs and plenty of spots to tailor the play to any city or town, Over the Moon is the perfect choice for every school looking to perform an energetic show that’s fresh, funny, and timeless.

About the Author

JODI PICOULT is the author of seventeen novels, including Handle With Care, Change of Heart, Nineteen Minutes, and My Sister’s Keeper, now a major motion picture. She lives in New Hampshire with her husband and three children. Visit her website at www.jodipicoult.com.

Details

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Paperback: 240 pages
• Publisher: Simon Pulse; Original edition (January 4, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1442421320
• ISBN-13: 978-1442421325

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

I could just imagine how much fun this musical would be to see preformed by the local school.  It hits fairy tales with female empowerment through an athletic princess who is trying to follow "The Rules" to catch her prince and guest appearances from all of your favorite Mother Goose characters.  There are some great double entredres that might fly over the heads of younger kids, but will keep the adults in their seats. 
The commentary on the current social situation and pointed jabs at politics will keep everyone on their toes waiting to hear the next almost groan worthy joke, well, the adults might groan, but the kids will be rolling in the aisles. 

REVIEW: Falling Under by Gwen Hayes

Description

Theia Alderson has always led a sheltered life in the small California town of Serendipity Falls. But when a devastatingly handsome boy appears in the halls of her school, Theia knows she's seen Haden before- not around town, but in her dreams.

As the Haden of both the night and the day beckons her closer one moment and pushes her away the next, the only thing Theia knows for sure is that the incredible pull she feels towards him is stronger than her fear.

And when she discovers what Haden truly is, Theia's not sure if she wants to resist him, even if the cost is her soul.

About the Author

Gwen Hayes lives in the Pacific Northwest with her real life hero and a pack of wild beasts (two of whom she gave birth to). She is a reader, writer, and lover of pop culture (which, other than yogurt, is the only culture she gets).

Details

• Paperback: 336 pages
• Publisher: NAL Trade (March 1, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0451232682
• ISBN-13: 978-0451232687

SOURCE:  AROUND THE WORLD ARC TOURS

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

**slight spoilers**

I totally got wrapped up in this one.  The story about Theia and Haden is a new take on the paranormal romances that are directed at teens these days.  I am sure you can tell be the description that Theia is human and Haden is something else.  There are no faeries, werewolves or vampires to be found which is a nice change of pace.  The writing is very lyrical and captivating.  It has a slow beginning but quickly picks up after 50 pages.  I think part of the problem was with Theia and how she wasn't acting like a normal almost 16 year old girl would act.  This issue resolved itself nicely.

As Theia nears her birthday, she dreams about a boy and when she sees the boy in school she has an immediate connection to him.  Things develop and become more dreamlike even while she is awake.  Her father is pretty much absent and like a Disney story, good and evil come out to play.  There is even the wicked mother of her beloved to contend with as well!  The ending did leave me wondering if there will be another book to follow up some unanswered questions.  There are some scenes of heavy petting, mild language and alcohol use-- well, I think it was alcohol, do they have alcohol in hell?

REVIEW: Hexbound by Chloe Neill

Description

Lily Parker is new to St Sophia's School for Girls, but she's already learned that magic can be your best friend ...or your worst enemy. So they say absolute power corrupts absolutely. But it turns out even a little bit of magic can turn you to the dark side. That's why Lily has to learn how to control her newly discovered abilities and quickly, on top of avoiding the snobs who think they run her school, nursing a crush on a cute sophomore with a big, werewolfy secret, and fighting the good fight with her best friend Scout as they take on Chicago's nastiest nightlife - including the tainted magic users known as the Reapers. All that's even before Lily's invited to a private meeting with Sebastian. He's hot, he's powerful, and he's offering to help her harness the magic flowing through her veins in a way that no one else can. He's also a Reaper. Lily can't help but be suspicious of his offer. But she also needs his help. It seems that the line between good and evil isn't quite so clear as she thought ...

About the Author

Chloe Neill was born in the south of the USA and currently resides in the US Midwest. FIRESPELL was her debut YA novel and the first in the Dark Elite series, and HEXBOUND continues the adventure!

Product Details

• Hardcover: 256 pages
• Publisher: Gollancz (January 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0575095431
• ISBN-13: 978-0575095434

SOURCE:  AROUND THE WORLD ARC TOURS

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

**slight spoilers**

So, at the end of Firespell, we learn that Lily does indeed have magical powers and they are above and beyond what even she could have imagined.  She quickly learns that there are risks to having powers.  Those stakes are raised when she has a meet up with the local vampire gangs and becomes the center of what may become all out war.  The Reapers are now after her as well.

There is wonderful and witty dialogue that will have you rereading parts just to make sure you don't miss any snappy comebacks that are being flung about between Lily and Scout.  How I wish my high school was that cool.  Lily also discovers that her parents may be hiding more than they are telling her and the school administration may be in on it as well.  I can't wait for the next one!  This is pretty clean fun.  Some inter-species kissing, a few choice words and I don't remember if there is any drug or alcohol issues, so it must not be that prevalent.

Now how long before I can read the next one?

REVIEW: Secrets and Shadows (13 to Life #2) by Shannon Delany

Description

Nothing's simple when you run with werewolves. Jess Gillmansen thinks she's seen it all but her eyes are about to be opened to even more danger and a reality far more paranormal than she's suspected. With Jess' realization that the Rusakovas' mother is still alive and imprisoned, the group's choices become harder and trust more important. Lines are drawn and relationships change as the broken Rusakova family struggles to reunite to free their mother - and those who Jess thought to be normal people show themselves to be much, much more...

About the Author

Since she was a child Shannon Delany has written stories, beginning writing in earnest when her grandmother fell unexpectedly ill. In 2008 her greatly abbreviated version of 13 to Life (written in just five weeks) won the grand prize in the first-ever cell phone novel contest in the western world through Textnovel.com. Previously a teacher and now a farmer raising heritage livestock, Shannon lives and writes in Upstate New York and enjoys traveling to talk to people about most anything.

Product Details

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Paperback: 320 pages
• Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin (February 15, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0312609159
• ISBN-13: 978-0312609153

SOURCE:  AROUND THE WORLD ARC TOURS

 MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

**slight spoilers**

The story picks right up after 13 to Life ends and answers a few questions about the cliffhanger ending.  It took me about 100 pages to really become interested in the story in this one as well since I had the same issues with the first book.  The last two-thirds of the book was a page turner.  Of course this one ends with a cliffhanger as well, so be prepared to wait another a year (fingers crossed, maybe later this year?) to read the next installment. 

Jess, Cat and Pietr are trying to work together now that they have located the Rusakova's mother.  As Jess acts as an intermediary between the CIA and the family, they find themselves still being trailed by the Mafia.  A little more light is shed on the gang's interest in the family.  Pietr and Jess are no closer to becoming attached, although Derek shows his true colors and now we are left wondering what his real story is as well.  There are lots of twists and turns in the plot.  Oh, and Sarah is getting her memory back!  There is some sexual tension, alcohol use and of course, bad words, even though Jess struggles valiantly against them.

REVIEW: 13 to Life by Shannon Delany

Description

Everything about Jessie Gillmansen’s life changed when her mother died. Now even her hometown of Junction is changing.  Mysterious dark things are happening. All Jessie wants is to avoid more change. But showing a hot new guy around Junction High, she’s about to discover a whole new type of change. Pietr Rusakova is more than good looks and a fascinating accent—he’s a guy with a dangerous secret. And his very existence is sure to bring big trouble to Jessie’s small town.  It seems change is the one thing Jessie can’t avoid…

About the Author

Since she was a child Shannon Delany has written stories, beginning writing in earnest when her grandmother fell unexpectedly ill. In 2008 her greatly abbreviated version of 13 to Life (written in just five weeks) won the grand prize in the first-ever cell phone novel contest in the western world through Textnovel.com. Previously a teacher and now a farmer raising heritage livestock, Shannon lives and writes in Upstate New York and enjoys traveling to talk to people about most anything.

Details

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Paperback: 320 pages
• Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin; 1 edition (June 22, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0312609140
• ISBN-13: 978-0312609146

SOURCE:  Purchased

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

**slight spoilers**

Like all first books in a series, this one deals with a lot of set up, getting to know the characters and setting the scene.  It took about a hundred pages and then it clicked.  Jessie (don't call her Jessica) is trying to be the all around good girl by befriending Sarah, the girl who caused her mother's death by driving without a license.  Before her mother dies, she tells Jessie to save the girl's life.  For some reason, this little plot point stuck with me and the fact that Sarah was the resident "mean girl" before the accident took the meanness away.

Jess has another friend, Amy who tries to keep her grounded and less involved with Sarah.  And then the new boy arrives on the scene.  Pietr has a past and when Jess is required to show him around school, her crush on Derek, the star football player becomes questionable.  A love triangle ensues between Sarah, Pietr and Jess when Jess pushes him to "help" Sarah recover from her brain injury that occurred during the accident that killed her mother.  Also, Jess realizes that there is something not right with Pietr and it is not just the Russian Mafia that is tracking him down. 

This is a nice paranormal romance will probably need several books to complete the story.  I was intrigued enough to want to read the next book in the series.  There is normal romantic teen high jinx, some kissing, some alcohol and a few cuss words.  This is probably better suited to older teens and adults.

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REVIEW: Demonglass by Rachel Hawkins

Description

Sophie Mercer thought she was a witch.

That was the whole reason she was sent to Hex Hall, a reform school for delinquent Prodigium (aka witches, shapeshifters, and fairies). But that was before she discovered the family secret, and that her hot crush, Archer Cross, is an agent for The Eye, a group bent on wiping Prodigium off the face of the earth.

Turns out, Sophie’s a demon, one of only two in the world—the other being her father. What’s worse, she has powers that threaten the lives of everyone she loves. Which is precisely why Sophie decides she must go to London for the Removal, a dangerous procedure that will destroy her powers.

But once Sophie arrives she makes a shocking discovery. Her new friends? They’re demons too. Meaning someone is raising them in secret with creepy plans to use their powers, and probably not for good. Meanwhile, The Eye is set on hunting Sophie down, and they’re using Acher to do it. But it’s not like she has feelings for him anymore. Does she?

About the Author

Rachel Hawkins is a high school English teacher. She lives with her family in Alabama, and is currently at work on the next book in the Hex Hall series.  (This was taken from Hex Hall, so I can only hope that she is working on another book!)

Details

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Hardcover: 368 pages
• Publisher: Hyperion Book CH (February 15, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1423121317
• ISBN-13: 978-1423121312

SOURCE: AROUND THE WORLD ARC TOURS

MY THOUGHTS
ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT

This one picks right up where Hex Hall ended and another book I read straight through in a few hours.  I was lucky enough to read these back to back and now I am left with that empty feeling when I finish a great read and must wait forever to get these characters back into my head.  After reading this I DEMAND a spin off for Jenna!  Her punky pink vampireness really made me want to get her whole back story and find out where she is going.  OK, back to Sophie and her confusing life.

Sophie has a lot on her plate after discovering that her father has never really told her the truth about her genetic history, falling for the wrong, totally bad boy, Archer, and being the target of the Eye.  Seriously, The Eye makes KAOS look like a bunch of geniuses as they try hit after hit on Sophie.  I am still waiting on the verdict for Archer.  I don't think that one will be read until there is a final volume in this series.  Keep 'em coming!

REVIEW: Wake Unto Me by Lisa Cach

Description

Caitlyn Monahan knows she belongs somewhere else. It's what her dead mother's note suggested, and it's what her recurring nightmares allude to.

Desperate to flee these terrifying dreams--and her small town--she accepts a spot at a boarding school in France. Only, when she arrives, her nightmares get worse.

But then there are her amazing dreams, so vivid and so real, with visits from an alluring, mysterious, and gorgeous Italian boy from the 1500s. Caitlyn knows they are soul mates, but how can she be in love with someone who exists only in her dreams?

Then, as her reality and dream world collide, Caitlyn searches for the real reason why she was brought to this school. And what she discovers will change her life forever.

From the Back Cover

I see him in my dreams, this mysterious boy.
He comes from
a different time,
a different place,
a different reality.

But there is something that connects us.
We are supposed to be together--bound by the heart of another.
But that's not possible... or is it?

About the Author

Lisa Cach lives in the Pacific Northwest.

Details

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Paperback: 304 pages
• Publisher: Speak (March 31, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0142414360
• ISBN-13: 978-0142414361

SOURCE:  AROUND THE WORLD ARC TOURS

MY THOUGHTS:
LOVED IT

 A true time travel romance that will appeal to all of us girls everywhere. There are bits of Romeo and Juliet mixed with a modern approach that time travels back in history.  The story reminded me a bit of Libba Bray's series, but I liked this one a bit more since the descriptions are to the point and not overly wordy.  I am more of a dialogue person and the conversations are very realistic.

I have read several of Lisa Cach's other stories and she is excellent at mixing up her characters and their actions.  This was a quick read for me and I think those that enjoy a good clean romance will enjoy this one.  There is also a touch of historical and gothic elements which I think are the next big thing. 

GIVEAWAY & REVIEW: Firespell by Chloe Neill

Description

New Girl.
New School.
Old Evil.

From the author of the Chicagoland Vampires novels.

A new series about a boarding school filled with something worse than homework.

Lily's parents have sent her to a fancy boarding school in Chicago filled with the ultra-rich. If that wasn't bad enough, she's hearing and seeing bizarre things on St. Sophie's creepy campus. Her roommate, Scout, keeps her sane, but keeps disappearing at night. When one day Lily finds Scout running from real-life monsters, she learns the hard way that Scout is involved in a splinter group of rebel teens.

They protect Chicago from demons, vamps, and dark magic users. It's too bad Lily doesn't have powers of her own to help. At least, none that she's discovered yet...

About the Author

Chloe Neill was born and raised in the South, but now makes her home in the Midwest, just close enough to continue transcribing the adventures of Merit and her fellow Chicagoland vampires.

Details

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Mass Market Paperback: 256 pages
• Publisher: Signet (January 5, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0451228863
• ISBN-13: 978-045122886

SOURCE:  PURCHASED

MY THOUGHTS:
LOVED IT

This is a very quick and enjoyable read.  Chloe Neill definitely knows how to craft the perfect spell of a book.  Everything is paced perfectly and the characters are likable, even the villains.  This story doesn't get too much into the bad guys here since the characters are being developed for the series.  The story is pretty much G rated.  There is a little bit of violence, but nothing worse than a Saturday morning cartoon.  The banter between characters is a blast and several of the lines will have you cribbing them for further use of your own.

Lily is dumped in boarding school by her parents without much warning and when she lands at St. Sophie's, she becomes friends with her roommate, Scout.  There is wonderful chemistry between the two and Lily quickly discovers that the school and her friend have some dark secrets.  Lily soon discovers that her own family has some secrets as well.  (You will get to more of that in the second book, HexBound.) Of course, there is all of the high school drama played out as well.  Fans of Marlene Perez's Dead Is series are going to love this one! 

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REVIEW: The Locket by Stacey Jay

 Description

On her seventeenth birthday, Katie discovers a locket and decides to wear it for good luck. But when her boyfriend Isaac finds out she cheated on him with their mutual best friend Mitch, no less, he dumps her, leaving her devastated.

And then a miracle happens. The locket burns on Katie's chest and she feels herself going back two weeks in time, to the night she cheated with Mitch. At first, Kate is delighted to be a better girlfriend to Isaac this time around. But as other aspects of her life become inexplicably altered, she realizes that changing the past may have had a dangerous effect on her present.

Can she make things right before the locket destroys everything and everyone she loves?

About the Author

Stacey Jay is the author of You Are So Undead to Me and Undead Much. She lives with her husband and three kids in Maumelle, Arkansas, and is also a photographer.

Details

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Paperback: 288 pages
• Publisher: Razorbill (February 3, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1595143351
• ISBN-13: 978-1595143358

SOURCE:  AROUND THE WORLD ARC TOURS

MY THOUGHTS
REALLY LIKED IT

I just started reading more time travel romances.  This one is a bit difference since the time travel is only a few weeks time in the present.   This is a sweet romance that will appeal to teens and adults alike.  The main question the book tries to answer is:  Will a do-over really change the outcome in what happens in the overall picture and your future?


 Katie finds herself making out with her long time neighbor and best boy bud, Mitch while she is dating Isaac.  She admits to Isaac that it happened and they break up.  I didn't really like Isaac, so I thought even if Katie could fix this, maybe she shouldn't.  I could plainly see the connection between Katie and Mitch.  There are a lot of missed connections between the two.  Katie tries and tries by using the magical locket to fix things and the more she tries the worse it gets.  The ending resolves all of the issues, but you need to read it for yourself.

 Recommended:  Girls over 13, adults who want a light romance
Sex: Kissing and making out, nothing too graphic
Violence:  Some boy fighting, not very graphic
Like:  Jennifer Echols with a paranormal twist

REVIEW: Steel by Carrie Vaughn

Description

When Jill finds a rusty sword tip on a Caribbean beach, she is instantly intrigued—and little expects it will transport her through time to the deck of a pirate ship. Will a dark enchantment, salty kisses, and a duel with an evil pirate captain leave her stranded in the eighteenth century forever?

Drawing on piratical lore and historical fact, Carrie Vaughn creates a vivid world of swaying masts and swelling seas, where blood magic overrules the laws of nature, romance is in the air, and death can come at the single slip of a sword.

About the Author

Carrie Vaughn survived her air force brat childhood and managed to put down roots in Colorado. Her first book, Kitty and the Midnight Hour, launched a popular series of novels about a werewolf named Kitty who hosts a talk-radio advice show. Ms. Vaughn has also written many short stories. This is her first work for young readers. Ms. Vaughn lives in Colorado.

Details

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Hardcover: 304 pages
• Publisher: HarperTeen (March 15, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0061547913
• ISBN-13: 978-0061547911

SOURCE:  AROUND THE WORLD ARC TOURS

MY THOUGHTS
ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT



Carrie Vaughn is one of my favorite authors, so when she started to write young adult novels, I was more than thrilled to get a sneek peek at this one.  Steel is just a fun and fabulous read that combines a bit of time travel with historical fiction.  It has great characters and a believable plot.  Well, as far as you can get with time travel and historical fiction. I found myself transported back in time and spent the afternoon googling the pirates named in the story.


Jill is an overachieving sixteen year old that wants to be a fencing national champion.  While on vacation in the Carribean, she stumbles upon a a piece of rusty steel and immediately knows that it is a sword.  She goes for a boat ride with her family and gets washed overboard.  When she comes up, Jill is rescued by a pirate ship in the eighteenth century.  Let's just say that it is a really good thing Jill knows about sword play.

There isn't much romance in this one and only one mention of a drunken situation where the pirates are more gentleman than today's teens could ever be.  There is alcohol consumption, but with the time era, it is acceptable.  I hope the author delves more into this type of story since I really enjoyed it.

PRE ORDER YOUR COPY HERE:   Steel

REVIEW: Unearthly by Cynthia Hand

Description

In the beginning, there's a boy standing in the trees . . . .

Clara Gardner has recently learned that she's part angel. Having angel blood run through her veins not only makes her smarter, stronger, and faster than humans (a word, she realizes, that no longer applies to her), but it means she has a purpose, something she was put on this earth to do. Figuring out what that is, though, isn't easy.
Her visions of a raging forest fire and an alluring stranger lead her to a new school in a new town. When she meets Christian, who turns out to be the boy of her dreams (literally), everything seems to fall into place—and out of place at the same time. Because there's another guy, Tucker, who appeals to Clara's less angelic side.
As Clara tries to find her way in a world she no longer understands, she encounters unseen dangers and choices she never thought she'd have to make—between honesty and deceit, love and duty, good and evil. When the fire from her vision finally ignites, will Clara be ready to face her destiny?
Unearthly is a moving tale of love and fate, and the struggle between following the rules and following your heart.

About the Author

Cynthia Hand divides her time between Southern California, where she lives with her husband and son, and southeast Idaho near the Teton Mountains. She teaches creative writing at Pepperdine University. This is her first novel.

Details

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Hardcover: 448 pages
• Publisher: HarperTeen (January 4, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0061996165
• ISBN-13: 978-0061996160

SOURCE:  AROUND THE WORLD ARC TOURS

MY THOUGHTS:
LOVED IT

I am adding my voice to the mass of people who love this book.   This story approaches angels in a whole different direction that the multitudes of books recently released on this subject.  The whole story is background on Clara and her family and doesn't get to the super-page-turning point until the last 75 pages or so.  Once I put it down, I now can't wait for the next book in the series.  It left me with a ton of unanswered questions.  I really thought the book was looking to conclude at the end of one book, but the author completely surprised me!  This book would have been absolutely perfect except that I thought the descriptions were a little bit too much.  I know that is me since I am more of a dialog person.  OK, so how much longer until the sequel?

Clara is a really strong character, but it bothered me that she would blindly follow the path her mother and tradition has laid out for her.  It isn't until her visions uproot the family and they move to Wyoming that she really becomes a person in her own right.  When she meets Angela and Wendy, her two new BFFs, there is a true dichotomy of good versus evil.  Wendy is so sugary sweet, while Angela has a tiny, little pitch fork, being part fallen angel.  I think Angela might play a more important role in the next book.  There is of course, the evil elements in the Black Wings, those fallen angels, who aren't quite demons.  There is an excellent point made that there really isn't true good or true evil, only shades of each.

There is of course the all important Love Triangle in the form of Tucker and Christian -- ok -- there are a few name plays going on here, but it works.  Christian is a complex character and again there is more than meets the eye with him.  I can't wait to see if Angela and Christian have some sort of angel club happening in the next installment.  

This is probably safe for most children over 12 years old since there is not much more than kissing.  There are references of rape which helps the evil angle. I don't remember any overt alcohol or drug references.

 

REVIEW: Entice by Carrie Jones

Description

Zara and Nick are soul mates, meant to be together forever. But that's not quite how things have worked out. For starters, well, Nick is dead. Supposedly, he's been taken to a mythic place for warriors known as Valhalla, so Zara and her friends might be able to get him back. But it's taking time, and meanwhile a group of evil pixies is devastating Bedford, with more teens going missing every day. An all-out war seems imminent, and the good guys need all the warriors they can find. But how to get to Valhalla? And even if Zara and her friends discover the way, there's that other small problem: Zara's been pixie kissed. When she finds Nick, will he even want to go with her? Especially since she hasn't turned into just any pixie. . . She's Astley's queen.

About the Author

CARRIE JONES loves Great Pyrenees dogs, Skinny Cow fudgsicles, and potatoes. In addition to the New York Times bestsellers Need and Captivate, Carrie is also the author of Girl, Hero; Love (and Other Uses for Duct Tape); and Tips on Having a Gay (Ex-)Boyfriend. Carrie grew up in Bedford, New Hampshire, where she once had a séance with uber-comedian Sarah Silverman. She now lives in Ellsworth, Maine.
www.needpixies.com
www.carriejonesbooks.com

Details

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Hardcover: 272 pages
• Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Children's Books (December 14, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1599905531
• ISBN-13: 978-1599905532

SOURCE:  AROUND THE WORLD ARC TOURS

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

**slight spoiler alert**
This one will have you hanging AGAIN at the end.  I am really beginning to hate it when that happens.  I thought I would finally get a bit of closure between Nick and Zara, but now Zara has thrown a wrench in the happily ever after by becoming a bit more friendly with Astley.  Zara concludes this book being more confused than ever!  There were a few slow parts in the plot, but by the end you will be satisfied that you finished it and demanding the next in the series.

REVIEW: Wither by Lauren DeStefano

Description

The first book in an exciting new series by first time author Lauren DeStefano. 

Thanks to modern science, every human being has become a ticking genetic time bomb—males only live to age twenty-five, and females only live to age twenty. In this bleak landscape, young girls are kidnapped and forced into polygamous marriages to keep the population from dying out.

When sixteen-year-old Rhine Ellery is taken by the Gatherers to become a bride, she enters a world of wealth and privilege. Despite her husband Linden's genuine love for her, and a tenuous trust among her sister wives, Rhine has one purpose: to escape—to find her twin brother and go home.

But Rhine has more to contend with than losing her freedom. Linden's eccentric father is bent on finding an antidote to the genetic virus that is getting closer to taking his son, even if it means collecting corpses in order to test his experiments. With the help of Gabriel, a servant Rhine is growing dangerously attracted to, Rhine attempts to break free, in the limited time she has left.

About the Author

Lauren DeStefano earned her BA in English with a Concentration in Creative Writing from Albertus Magnus College in Connecticut in 2007. Wither is her first novel.

Details

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Hardcover: 368 pages
• Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing; 1 edition (March 22, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1442409053
• ISBN-13: 978-1442409057

SOURCE: Around the World ARC Tours

 MY THOUGHTS
ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT


All I can say after reading this, is when will the next one be released?  I just couldn't put this one down once I started and even now, I am still thinking about the characters. In this dystopian tale, Rhine is sixteen and forced into marriage after being stolen from her home.  She learns that her husband is more or less a pawn in his father's mad scientist games in which he is experimenting on corpses to stop the insidious virus that plagues mankind.  The virus causes women to die at twenty and men at twenty five.


Without going into to much plot detail, Rhine tries to escape and with the help of her sister-wives, she gain the courage to make the final attempt.  This is truly a page turner and it will leave you with many different feelings.  I do hope in the end, Rhine finds her contentment.  I guess I will have to wait for the installment to find this out.

REVIEW: Dash & Lily's Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan

 

 

Description

“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?

Rachel Cohn and David Levithan have written a love story that will have readers perusing bookstore shelves, looking and longing for a love (and a red notebook) of their own.

About the Author

Rachel Cohn & David Levithan have written three books together. Their first, Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist, was made into a movie starring Michael Cera and Kat Dennings, directed by Peter Sollett. Their second, Naomi and Ely’s No Kiss List, was named a New York Public Library Book for the Teen Age. For their third book, Dash & Lily’s Book of Dares, David wrote Dash’s chapters and Rachel wrote Lily’s. Although they did not pass the chapters back and forth in a red Moleskine notebook, they did email them to each other without planning anything out beforehand. That’s the way they work.

Rachel’s previous books include Gingerbread, Shrimp, Cupcake, You Know Where to Find Me, and Very LeFreak. David’s previous books include Boy Meets Boy, The Realm of Possibility, Are We There Yet?, Wide Awake, Love Is the Higher Law, and How They Met, and Other Stories.

For more information about Rachel and David, you can find them at RachelCohn.com and DavidLevithan.com, respectively. You may also catch them in the aisles at the Strand.

Details

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Hardcover: 272 pages
• Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers (October 26, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0375866590
• ISBN-13: 978-0375866593

SOURCE:  AROUND THE WORLD ARC TOURS

MY THOUGHTS:
LOVED IT

**SPOILER ALERT**  Don't read the second paragraph!

If you are looking for the holiday romance book of the season, this is it! I haven't read a more perfectly put together romance like this in a long time.  The story mostly takes place at the Strand, the famous NYC bookstore.  Lily's brother pretty much tells her she is a loser and when her parents and grandfather take off over the winter break, she finds herself truly alone.  Her brother hits on the idea that she should leave a book of dares stashed on the shelf at the Strand.  Dash discovers the book and he starts to communicate with Lily through the journal.

After several madcap adventures and quips traded back and forth in the journal, Lily finally meets Dash face to face.  There are several difficult moments with lots of character growth.  This one will make you go "awwww" quite a few times and there is enough action to keep the plot moving.  There is some alluded to sex mentioned and an instance of alcohol, but overall not much to worry about.

GIVEAWAY & REVIEW: Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins

 

 

Description

Three years ago, Sophie Mercer discovered that she was a witch. It's gotten her into a few scrapes. Her non-gifted mother has been as supportive as possible, consulting Sophie's estranged father--an elusive European warlock--only when necessary. But when Sophie attracts too much human attention for a prom-night spell gone horribly wrong, it's her dad who decides her punishment: exile to Hex Hall, an isolated reform school for wayward Prodigium, a.k.a. witches, faeries, and shapeshifters. By the end of her first day among fellow freak-teens, Sophie has quite a scorecard: three powerful enemies who look like supermodels, a futile crush on a gorgeous warlock, a creepy tagalong ghost, and a new roommate who happens to be the most hated person and only vampire on campus. Worse, Sophie soon learns that a mysterious predator has been attacking students, and her only friend is the number-one suspect.
As a series of blood-curdling mysteries starts to converge, Sophie prepares for the biggest threat of all: an ancient secret society determined to destroy all Prodigium, especially her.

About the Author

Rachel Hawkins is a high school English teacher. She lives with her family in Alabama, and is currently at work on the next book in the Hex Hall series.

Details

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Hardcover: 336 pages
• Publisher: Hyperion Book CH; 1 edition (March 2, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1423121309
• ISBN-13: 978-1423121305

SOURCE:  Purchased 

MY THOUGHTS
Check out my rating of this book HERE

**Slight Spoilers**

I have had this book sitting in a pile since it first came out and now I am wondering why it took me so long to read this.  It has all of the ingredients to make this one of my favorite books: snappy dialogue, snarky humor, and fast action.  This is a quick and easy read which I found immensely enjoyable.  Now, I just can't wait for Demonglass.  The end of the story left me with so many questions.

Sophie learns that she has been classified as a dark witch when she checks into her new school, Hecate Hall.  She ends up at this reform school after several of her spells go horribly wrong.  She finds more outcasts her that are like her, but not really like her.  She has her first head over heels crush on the wrong boy, the REALLY wrong boy named Archer Cross.  At least she does make one friend, a vamp named Jenna. These two will probably play an even more important role in the next book.  My fingers are crossed on that one.

Like most young adult books, the parents are non existent, but even more so in this one since Sophie has never even met her father.  I did expect him to make a grand entrance like Darth Vader, "Sophie, I am your father!", but that didn't really happen.  Again, I have high hopes for the next installment.  I am not going into the plot twists, but just be sure that there are a few that will have you pleasantly surprised.

Recommended:  To Everyone over 13 since there are a few sexual references.
Similar Authors: Lauren Kate, Marlene Perez



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GIVEAWAY & REVIEW: Charles Dickens A Christmas Carol - A Pop Up Book

Description

This beautiful re-imagining of Charles Dickens's timeless fable, A Christmas Carol: A Pop-Up Book features artist Chuck Fischer's richly painted depictions of the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge and the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Future, brought to life in intricate pop-up scenes by paper engineer Bruce Foster. The entire text of A Christmas Carol is reproduced in five removable, illustrated, keepsake booklets. An introductory booklet provides a biography of Dickens and an illustrated feature on the enduring appeal of this beloved story. The perfect gift, A Christmas Carol, now in pop-up form, will brighten the holidays for young and old.

About the Author

Charles Dickens (1812-1870) was one of the most prolific authors of the nineteenth century. In his many short stories, plays, novellas, and novels, he created some of literature's most memorable characters.

Chuck Fischer's paintings hang in some of the finest residences in the world. His designs have been reproduced on holiday ornaments and home furnishings, including wallpaper and fabrics in the permanent collection of the Cooper-Hewitt Museum. He is the author of six previous pop-up books: The White House, Great American Houses and Gardens, Christmas in New York, Christmas Around the World, In the Beginning, and Angels: A Pop-Up Book. He lives in New York and Florida.

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 9-12
• Hardcover: 12 pages
• Publisher: Little, Brown and Company; Pop Har/Bk edition (November 10, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 031603973X
• ISBN-13: 978-0316039734

SOURCE: PUBLISHER

MY THOUGHTS:
ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT

This is such a fantastic book.  I can't believe the amount of detail that is in this pop up book.  The art really enhances the story.  The original story is contained in small booklets pocketed on each fold out.  This would be perfect to read out loud, covering one section each night leading up to Christmas.  I think this would capture the attention of even the most jaded child or adult.  This is the first book by Chuck Fischer that I have ever seen, but it won't be my last. 

WANT TO WIN A COPY OF THIS BOOK?

Contest is open to anyone with a US or Canadian mailing address (no PO Boxes)
Contest ends on 11.26.10 Winner will be chosen by Random.org on 11.27.10
Winner will have 48 hours to respond to email or a new winner will be chosen.
This giveaway is sponsored by Hatchette Book Group and ONE book will be available.
Only one winner per household address!

+1 Complete the below form
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+1 Follow Chuck Fischer's blog HERE

+1 Like Chuck Fischer on Face Book HERE

+1 Follow Chuck Fischer on Twitter HERE

+1 Visit ChuckFischer.com and leave me a comment with an interesting fact.

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GIVEAWAY & REVIEW: Snow Valley Heros by Robert McCarty

Description

Who were the Snow Valley Heroes? Did they really save Christmas? Children and adults have asked these questions for many years, and there have been many who tried to answer them. The confusion and uncertainty is because the Snow Valley Heroes came from the Planet of the Dogs long, long ago. This is the true story of how the dogs saved Christmas.

Details

• Reading level: Ages 9-12
• Perfect Paperback: 81 pages
• Publisher: Barking Planet Productions; 1st edition (August 25, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0978692829
• ISBN-13: 978-0978692827

SOURCE: PUBLISHER

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT


Just in time for the holidays!  This delightful conclusion to the Planet of the Dogs series just caps off a wonderful tradition.  The story is well suited to be read aloud to younger children and as chapter book for the older ones.  All of your favorite dogs help rescue two of Santa's reindeer from the Evil King of the North.  The story also imparts important lessons of cooperation and responsibility.

WANT TO WIN A COPY OF THIS BOOK?

Contest is open to anyone with a US mailing address -  PO Boxes are ok!
Contest ends on 11.25.10 Winner will be chosen by Random.org on 11.26.10
Winner will have 48 hours to respond to email or a new winner will be chosen.
This giveaway is sponsored by The Author and ME!  One book is available.
Only one winner per household address!

+1 Complete the below form
+1 Follow Me

+1 Be my friend on Good Reads HERE

+1 Follow me on Twitter HERE

+1 Like the SWAMPED Face book Page HERE 

+1 Fan Robert McCarty on Good Reads  HERE

+1 Follow Barking Planet blog  HERE

+1 Visit the Planet of the dog.net and leave me an interesting fact about the author.

And now, for those extra entries you can do each day:

+1 Leave a comment!  I love comments! Just be sure to leave an email address so I can contact you.

 +1 for each post on twitter, a social networking site, blog, sidebar, etc., just be sure to leave a link.