REVIEW: Team Human by Justine Larbalestier & Sarah Rees Brennan @harperteen

Book Description

Publication Date: July 3, 2012

Just because Mel lives in New Whitby, a city founded by vampires, doesn't mean she knows any of the blood-drinking undead personally. They stay in their part of town; she says in hers. Until the day a vampire shows up at her high school. Worse yet, her best friend, Cathy, seems to be falling in love with him. It's up to Mel to save Cathy from a mistake she might regret for all eternity!
On top of trying to help Cathy (whether she wants it or not), Mel is investigating a mysterious disappearance for another friend and discovering the attractions of a certain vampire wannabe. Combine all this with a cranky vampire cop, a number of unlikely romantic entanglements, and the occasional zombie, and soon Mel is hip-deep in an adventure that is equal parts hilarious and touching.
Acclaimed authors Justine Larbalestier and Sarah Rees Brennan team up to create a witty and poignant story of cool vampires, warm friendships, and the changes that test the bonds of love.

About the Authors
JUSTINE LARBALESTIER is the author of Liar, How to Ditch Your Fairy, and the Magic or Madness trilogy, as well as the coeditor with Holly Black of Zombies vs. Unicorns. She and her husband, author Scott Westerfeld, divide their time between Sydney, Australia, and New York City.

SARAH REES BRENNAN was born and raised in Ireland by the sea. After college she lived briefly in New York and somehow survived in spite of her habit of hitching lifts in fire engines. Since then she has returned to Ireland to write and use as a home base for future adventures. Her Irish is still woeful, but she feels the books under the desk were worth it.

Details Reading level: Ages 13 and up Hardcover: 352 pages Publisher: HarperTeen (July 3, 2012) Language: English ISBN-10: 0062089641 ISBN-13: 978-0062089649

SOURCE: AROUND THE WORLD ARC TOURS

MY THOUGHTS
ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT




Welcome to New Whitby, home of the vampires who settled in America much like the Pilgrims and have created their own community along side normal humans.  Here, they don't sparkle, sunlight can kill them and rules are in place regarding the turning of humans into vampires since a mistake result in a zombie!  Mel is a studious, normal teen who begins to note that things aren't all right in her home town.  Her BFF, Cathy, has decided she want to be undead, her other friend, Anna, has been suddenly sent spiraling by her father's disappearance and worst of all, there is now a vampire in her her high school.  The worst of these of course is the vampire, who Mel, despises in a sort of contempt usually reserved for litterers.  


Of course, you have your unlikely love matches, prejudices, and other high school pettiness but with vampires and zombies creating the issues as well as jocks / cheerleaders versus the nerds and geeks.  It points fingers at all the social injustices of bigotry but in a fun and sarcastic way.  Since the vampire, Francis, has started school, Cathy is drawn towards him and being a bit melancholy her whole life, falls in love with him and want to be turned.  Anna, the principal's daughter, has found that her psychologist father has just run away with one of his vampire patients.  All this leaves Mel searching for the truth of what actually happened to Anna's father and with the help of Kit (adopted by Francis as a baby) learns what love is and that her prejudice towards vampires is unfounded.  Oh and Mel tries to meddle in Cathy's life to keep her from turning Vamp, thereby losing her BFF, but not entirely.  


 Ahhh, how wonderful!  Finally, a book that pokes fun at all of the vampire teen angsty stories trolling around these days and written by two of my favorite authors. The story reminded me a bit of a snarky Nancy Drew and how there are all sorts of puzzles that Mel must solve in order to find out what vampires are really up to.  I adored the fact that Mel grows through each page and would love to read another installment of her adventures.  This one did end with a slight opening that might allow that.  If you enjoyed Meg Cabot's Insatiable, you are going to love this one! 

REVIEW: Kids of the Black Hole by Dewar MacLeod

Product Description

Los Angeles rock generally conjures memories of surf music, The Doors, or Laurel Canyon folkies. But punk? L.A. s punk scene, while not as notorious as that of New York City, emerged full-throated in 1977 and boasted bands like The Germs, X, and Black Flag. This book explores how, in the land of the Beach Boys, punk rock took hold.As a teenager, Dewar MacLeod witnessed firsthand the emergence of the punk subculture in Southern California. As a scholar, he here reveals the origins of an as-yet-uncharted revolution. Having combed countless fanzines and interviewed key participants, he shows how a marginal scene became a mass subculture that democratized performance art, and he captures the excitement and creativity of a neglected episode in rock history.
Kids of the Black Hole tells how L.A. punk developed, fueled by youth unemployment and alienation, social conservatism, and the spare landscape of suburban sprawl communities; how it responded to the wider cultural influences of Southern California life, from freeways to architecture to getting high; and how L.A. punks borrowed from their New York and London forebears to create their own distinctive subculture. Along the way, MacLeod not only teases out the differences between the New York and L.A. scenes but also distinguishes between local styles, from Hollywood s avant-garde to Orange County s hardcore.
With an intimate knowledge of bands, venues, and zines, MacLeod cuts to the heart of L.A. punk as no one has before. Told in lively prose that will satisfy fans, Kids of the Black Hole will also enlighten historians of American suburbia and of youth and popular culture.

About the Author

Dewar MacLeod is Associate Professor of History at William Paterson University in Wayne, New Jersey.

Details

• Paperback: 240 pages
• Publisher: Univ of Oklahoma Pr (Trd) (November 1, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0806140410
• ISBN-13: 978-0806140414

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER / AUTHOR

 MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

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: A Small Furry Prayer by Steven Kotler

Description

Steven Kotler was forty years old and facing an existential crisis—which made him not too different from just about every other middle-aged guy in Los Angeles. Then he met Joy, a woman devoted to the cause of canine rescue. "Love me, love my dogs," was her rule, and not having any better ideas, Steven took it to heart. Together with their pack of eight dogs—then fifteen dogs, then twenty-five dogs, then, well, they lost count—Steven and Joy bought a tiny farm in a tiny town in rural New Mexico and started the Rancho de Chihuahua, a sanctuary for dogs with special needs.

While dog rescue is one of the largest underground movements in America, it is also one of the least understood. This insider look at the cult and culture of dog rescue begins with Kotler's personal experience working with an ever-peculiar pack of dogs and becomes a much deeper investigation into exactly what it means to devote one's life to the furry and the four-legged.

Along the way, Kotler combs through every aspect of canine-human relations, from human's long history with dogs through brand new research into the neuroscience of canine companionship, in the end discovering why living in a world of dogs may be the best way to uncover the truth about what it really means to be human.

About the Author

Steven Kotler is the author of the novel The Angle Quickest for Flight, a San Francisco Chronicle bestseller, and the non-fiction West of Jesus, a 2006 PEN West finalist. His work has appeared in the New York Times Magazine, GQ, Wired, Discover, Popular Science, Details, Outside, National Geographic, and elsewhere, and he writes "The Playing Field," a blog about the science of sport for PsychologyToday.com. Kotler runs the Rancho de Chihuahua dog sanctuary with his wife in New Mexico.

Details

• Hardcover: 320 pages
• Publisher: Bloomsbury USA; 1 edition (September 28, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1608190021
• ISBN-13: 978-1608190027

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

This is such an interesting story. Steve Kotler went from being dogless to dog rescuer all because of love.  When his girlfriend states that he needs to love her dogs as well as her, he jumps in, well, with reservations, but he is quickly won over by four legged furries that warm his heart.   He gives up everything in Los Angeles to follow his love and his heart to New Mexico where he helps found a sanctuary for dogs.  It is wonderful that this man found his purpose in life through dogs.  People underrate the fulfillment that dogs (and other pets) can bring to someone's life.  Any one who love dogs and memoirs are going to find this heartwarming story a true pleasure to read.

REVIEW: Thieves Like Us by Starr Ambrose

Description

Her ex stole the jewels, but this bad boy just stole her heart. . . . After ditching the ruthless Banner Westfield, aka “the world’s worst husband,” sexy and fiercely guarded Janet Aims thinks the least she deserves for surviving attempted murder is a chance to cash in on her losses. Step one is hocking the wedding ring and ridiculously tacky necklace given to her by her conniving ex.
But just when Janet thinks she’s buried the past, the police claim that the necklace is part of the stolen Pellinni Jewel collection. Which means that even prison can’t stop Banner from dumping her smack in the middle of his evil schemes again.
With Colombian gangsters and jewel thieves hot on her trail, Janet has no choice but to turn to smoldering ex-con Rocky Hernandez, the one man who can make her fragile heart pound. Partnering up with a certified hottie who knows the ins and outs of Detroit’s seedy underbelly as well as he does a woman’s body might have its perks if Janet’s life—and her heart—weren’t on the line. . . .

About the Author

STARR AMBROSE is the author of Our Little Secret and Lie to Me. She grew up in suburban Detroit and graduated from Michigan State University with a B.A. in English. She continues to reside in her home state with her family and a lively cast of cats, dogs, horses, and chickens.  She loves to hear from readers and can be contacted through her web site, www.starrambrose.com .

Details

• Mass Market Paperback: 368 pages
• Publisher: Pocket; Original edition (November 30, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1439181292
• ISBN-13: 978-1439181294

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER

MY TOUGHTS

REALLY LIKE IT

This is a new to me author and even though I didn't read the first book in the series, I really enjoyed this one and had no problem catching up on the characters.  I must say that my first love, snappy dialogue, is well represented here.  The characters just sparkle!  Janet can take care of herself and even though she is wealthy beyond words, she loves to mix it up.  Rocky just sears the pages and reminds me a bit of Ranger from the Stephanie Plum series.   If you enjoy romantic suspense, you will love this series.  I am off to find the first book, so I can catch up and be ready for the next one.

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.

WANT TO WIN THIS BOOK?
Go on over to my other blog, FOREVER YOUNG (adult) HERE and enter by 1.15.11

GIVEAWAY & REVIEW: Get Energy by Denise Austin

 

 

Description

With busy schedules, demanding careers, and little time, many of us battle just to stay awake. But energy is something that is in our control, even when time is short. Now 50 years young, fitness guru Denise Austin shows readers how to super-charge their lives, using her innovative lifestyle plan. She eats the right foods at the right time of day. She uses the power of stretching and breathing to feed her body with energy-enhancing oxygen. She uses mini-workouts to get energy even on her busiest days--and now you can too!

Denise shows how simple changes can add up to increased energy levels throughout the day. From the foods they consume to the way they sit in their chairs, readers won't believe how Denise's quick and easy plan will dramatically increase their energy levels. In as little as a week, results will be felt: radiant skin, more restful sleep, and a sharper mind...so follow Denise Austin and prepare for a fitness wake-up call!

About the Author

A native of San Pedro, California, Denise Austin started gymnastics at the age of 12 and earned an athletic scholarship to the University of Arizona, graduating in 1979 with a Bachelor's degree in education with an emphasis in exercise physiology. She began her career teaching aerobic exercise classes in the Los Angeles area and went on to co-host the The Jack LaLanne Show, in 1981.
During more than 25 years promoting health and fitness, Denise has created 82 workout videos/DVDs. Her enormous number of sales led to her 2003 induction into the Video Hall of Fame.
Denise has been married for 25 years to Jeff Austin, a sports attorney and brother of tennis champ Tracy Austin. They share a home with their two teenage daughters, Kelly and Katie.

Details

• Paperback: 256 pages
• Publisher: Center Street; Original edition (January 7, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1599952475
• ISBN-13: 978-1599952475

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

First off, this is NOT a diet or exercise book.  Yes, there are diet and exercise suggestions through out the book, but they are helpful hints and some lifestyle changes that can help towards that first step of taking action.  Get Energy is all about figuring out what is blocking you from taking action and overcoming the hardest thing:  taking that first step.  I love that this makes it easy to do one little thing at a time that can make a difference in your daily life.  Austin doesn't make you feel bad that you have bad habits, she tries to make you understand how each little thing can help you change for the better.

The book is broken down into bite size bits that are easy to digest and actually accomplish.  Although I doubt I will ever look anything like Denise Austin, it is comforting to know that she has the same issues and problems that most women around 50 have and that at this time in our lives, our bodies are changing.  I have tried several of the suggestions in this book when I am feeling out of sorts and they really do help.  Even getting up and walking around the block can help change your outlook on life.  Everyone needs this book and it will help your New Year's resolutions so much easier!

WANT TO WIN A COPY OF THIS BOOK?

Contest is open to anyone with a US or Canadian mailing addresses (no PO Boxes)

Contest ends on 1.15.11 Winner will be chosen by Random.org on 1.16.11
Winner will have 48 hours to respond to email or a new winner will be chosen.
This giveaway is sponsored by Hachette Book Group and up to 3 copies of the book will be available.
Only one winner per household address!

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BLOG TOUR & REVIEW: Brooklyn Story by Suzanne Corso

Description

To me, some people lived in the real world and others lived Brooklyn. . . .It’s the summer of 1978, and Samantha Bonti is fifteen years old, half Jewish and half Italian, and hesitantly edging toward pure Brooklyn, even if her dreams of something more are bigger than the neighborhood girls’ teased hair. She lives in Bensonhurst with her mother, Joan, a woman abandoned and scarred in a ruinous marriage, poisoned with cynicism, and shackled by addictions; and with her Grandma Ruth, Samantha’s loudest and most opinionated source of encouragement. As flawed as they are, they are family.
Samantha’s best friend is Janice Caputo, a girl who understands, as well as Samantha does, this close-knit community of ancestors and traditions that stand like roadblocks, this insular overcrowded little world of controlling mobsters who mold their women like Jell-O; and of the wannabes, the charismatic young guys who are willing to engage in anything illegal to get a shot at playing with the big boys. Yet, Samantha has something Janice doesn’t—a desire to become a writer and to escape the destiny that is assumed for all of them in the outer reaches of Bensonhurst. And it’s to be had just across the Brooklyn Bridge.
Then comes Tony Kroon.
Older than Samantha, Tony is a blonde-haired, blue-eyed, half-Sicilian, half-Dutch mobster wannabe. A Bensonhurst Adonis. Taken in by his adoring attention, and empathetic to Tony’s own struggles with identity, Samantha is falling in love, even when she’s warned never to ask imprudent questions of Tony’s life. Even when her family and friends warn her to stay away. Even when Samantha knows she’s too smart to fall this deep . . . but the last thing she wants is the first thing to happen. Unable to resist Tony’s seductive charms, Samantha soon finds herself swallowed up by dangerous circumstances that threaten to jeopardize more than her dreams. Grandma Ruth’s advice: Samantha had better write herself out this story and into a new one, fast.
Told from the adult perspective, this is a powerful, true-to-life novel of leaving the past to history and the future to fate—of restoring hope where there was none, and reaching for dreams in an inspiring promise of paradise called Manhattan.

About the Author

Suzanne is the author of two feature film screenplays, has produced two documentaries, and written one children's book. She currently lives in New York City. This is her first novel.

Details

• Hardcover: 336 pages
• Publisher: Gallery (December 28, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1439190224
• ISBN-13: 978-1439190227

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

I adored debut authors and this one lived up to my expectations.  While reading it, I thought that this would make a wonderful movie and yes, it will be made into a movie!  Some books just really lend themselves to the big screen.  I was also interested in how the author depicts the year of 1978 and how New York becomes the goal of Samantha and how it represents "making it".  There is lots of angst and drama that keep with the time period.  It reminded me a bit of Boardwalk Empire as well.  

BLOG TOUR & REVIEW: Earl of Darkness by Alix Rickloff

Description

The magic she tries to hide . . . Born a lady, but reduced to surviving in the slums of Dublin, Catriona O’Connell has been hired to steal a mysterious book from Aidan Douglas, Earl of Kilronan. But Cat is secretly Other, an age-old mixture of Fey and human—something Aidan recognizes immediately when he surprises the lovely young burglar in his library, about to steal a magical diary.
 . . . is the magic he desperately wants.
From the moment Aidan sees her, Cat’s spirited beauty enchants him, but her uncanny abilities are what he truly needs, for Cat can understand the mystical language in the diary he inherited from his murdered father. So Aidan makes an offer: translate the book or be thrown in prison as a thief. And as Cat slowly deciphers each page, she and Aidan are drawn together by passion . . . and into the violence of the Other world that is the Kilronan legacy. Can they defeat those who seek the book, or are their lives in even greater danger than their hearts?

About the Author

ALIX RICKLOFF  has never been able to decide who she enjoys reading more; Austen or Tolkien. That lifelong indecision drove her to create stories of her own, combining those distinct loves. Her writing awards include a final in the Golden Heart, while Romantic Times Magazine calls her work both compelling and original.
To learn more you can visit her on the web at www.AlixRickloff.com.

Details

• Mass Market Paperback: 368 pages
• Publisher: Pocket; Original edition (December 28, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1439170363
• ISBN-13: 978-1439170366

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

What a wonderful historical paranormal romance!  I am just starting to discover this genre and really enjoyed this one.  There are lots of twists and turns in the plot and everything moves along rapidly.  There is always a part of the book where you have to make the jump to accept the magical elements in a story like this, but there is no effort on the reader's part since it is a very smooth and discreet leap of faith.  This is definitely an author to watch and see how this series develops. 

BLOG TOUR & REVIEW: The Scent of Jasmine by Jude Deveraux

Description

Would you risk your life—on the love of a lifetime? Charleston, 1799: A daughter of Southern gentility and a gifted painter, Catherine Edilean Harcourt has no lack of suitors at home in Virginia, waiting to fulfill her dream of marriage and family. But Cay’s adventurous spirit, fostered by growing up with her three brothers, is piqued while visiting her godfather in South Carolina. Bedridden with a broken leg, he asks Cay to fill in for him on an urgent task: on her way to a fancy dress ball, she must deliver a packed horse to an old friend’s son—who also happens to be an escaped convict charged with murdering his wife! Cay agrees to the plan, which doesn’t go at all as planned . . . whereupon she finds herself fleeing Alexander McDowell’s captors, riding blind into the night with the fugitive Scotsman. Though she should fear him, Cay finds herself overwhelmingly attracted to Alex, and drawn into his tale of misguided justice and his innocence as they seek refuge in the steamy Florida everglades. Will trusting him be the worst mistake of her life? Or will falling in love be the salvation both of them have been looking for?

About the Author

Jude Deveraux is the author of thirty-nine New York Times bestsellers, including Scarlet Nights, Days of Gold, Lavender Morning, Return to Summerhouse, and Secrets. To date, there are more than sixty million copies of her books in print worldwide. She lives in North Carolina. To learn more, visit www.judedeveraux.com.

Details

• Mass Market Paperback: 432 pages
• Publisher: Pocket; Original edition (December 28, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0743479025
• ISBN-13: 978-0743479028

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER

 MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

This is the fourth book in the Edilean series that covers centuries.  I have not read any of the other books in this series, but I think this one can stand alone.  I had no problem picking up with any of the background.  This is an action-adventure historical romance set in the Everglades during 1799 and filled with lots of wonderful historical facts.  I love authors who can combine fact with fiction.

Alex, who just broke out of prison is expecting Catherine's grandfather to meet him with a horse.  Instead, he meets Catherine and decides to take her with him as he out runs the law.  Catherine's three brothers chase after them and lots of wonderful chemistry ensues between Cay (Catherine) and Alex.  This is a good way to pass a cold winter's night. 

BLOG TOUR & REVIEW: The Secret History of Elizabeth Tudor, Vampire Hunter by Lucy Weston

Description

Sovereign Power. Eternal Pleasure.Revealed at last in this new vampire saga for the ages: the true, untold story of the “Virgin Queen” and her secret war against the Vampire King of England. . . .
On the eve of her coronation, Elizabeth Tudor is summoned to the tomb of her mother, Anne Boleyn, to learn the truth about her bloodline—and her destiny as a Slayer. Born to battle the bloodsucking fiends who ravage the night, and sworn to defend her beloved realm against all enemies, Elizabeth soon finds herself stalked by the most dangerous and seductive vampire of all.
He is Mordred, bastard son of King Arthur, who sold his soul to destroy his father. After centuries in hiding, he has arisen determined to claim the young Elizabeth as his Queen. Luring her into his world of eternal night, Mordred tempts Elizabeth with the promise of everlasting youth and beauty, and vows to protect her from all enemies. Together, they will rule over a golden age for vampires in which humans will exist only to be fed upon. Horrified by his intentions, Elizabeth embraces her powers as a Slayer even as she realizes that the greatest danger comes from her own secret desire to yield to Mordred . . . to bare her throat in ecstasy and allow the vampire king to drink deeply of her royal blood.
As told by Lucy Weston, the vampire prey immortalized in Bram Stoker’s Dracula, this spellbinding account will capture your heart and soul—forever.

Details

• Paperback: 320 pages
• Publisher: Gallery; Original edition (December 21, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 143919033X
• ISBN-13: 978-1439190333

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER

MY THOUGHTS:
LOVED IT

This book is a fusion of my favorite historical fiction writers and fantasy masters.  The book starts out in typical historical fashion with Elizabeth gaining the throne and then being told the state secrets which include the fact that she is the *one* that time has designated as *the* vampire hunter with special skills.  It only gets better from there.  The story becomes a quickly paced thrilled as we watch Elizabeth gain power and ability to hunt vampires.

I really enjoy these mash ups, so if you have tried before and didn't like them, you might want to take a chance on this one.  I really liked this one better than Abraham Lincoln, Vampire Hunter.  Couldn't you just imagine all historical characters coming together to create a super force of vampire hunters?  

REVIEW: Wolf Fever by Terry Spear

Description

She may be his destiny, but she's not his first choice...
Hospital nurse and newly turned red werewolf Carol Woods is being pressured by her pack leader to find a mate, but he's the only guy in the pack who remotely attracts her.
Why is he playing so hard to get?
The fate of the pack rests on his shoulders...
Gray pack leader Ryan McKinley doesn't want anything to do with Carol unless she's willing to embrace her wolf nature-no matter how beautiful she is.
But when a virus infects the local lupus garou pack, Ryan realizes just how wrong he's been not to seize the moment with the woman he's come to love. And now, it may be too late...

About the Author

With almost 56,000 copies sold, Terry Spear is also a retired lieutenant colonel in the US Army Reserves. She received her MBA from Monmouth College. An eclectic writer, she dabbles in the paranormal as well as writing historical and true life stories for both teen and adult audiences. Spear lives in Crawford, Texas.

Product Details

• Mass Market Paperback: 416 pages
• Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca; Original edition (December 1, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1402237529
• ISBN-13: 978-1402237522

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER

MY THOUGHTS

REALLY LIKED IT

Part of my fascination with this Terry Spear's wolf series is that she gets the technical parts down so that the story is incredible believable.  You understand the transformation and the need for a pack.  She does a wonderful job uniting the human condition with the animal instincts.  I have really enjoyed the series so far, but this one wasn't my absolute favorite.  That usually falls to the first in the series since there is always something special about your first time.

Carol is a newly minted wolf in Silver City (yes, I can hear you groan) with psychic abilities when she meets alpha Ryan who doesn't believe in psychic ability but is attracted none the less.  Lots of heavy petting ensues since if they mate, they are mated for life.  There are lots of hot moments in the story and overall this will get you through a cold winter night.  Overall, this is a fun read if you enjoy some feverish werewolf sex.  

REVIEW: An Object of Beauty by Steve Martin

Product Description

Lacey Yeager is young, captivating, and ambitious enough to take the NYC art world by storm. Groomed at Sotheby's and hungry to keep climbing the social and career ladders put before her, Lacey charms men and women, old and young, rich and even richer with her magnetic charisma and liveliness. Her ascension to the highest tiers of the city parallel the soaring heights--and, at times, the dark lows--of the art world and the country from the late 1990s through today.

About the Author

Steve Martin is a legendary writer, actor, and performer. His film credits include Father of the Bride, Parenthood, The Spanish Prisoner, and Bringing Down the House, as well as Roxanne, L.A. Story, and Bowfinger, for which he also wrote the screenplays. He's won Emmys for his television writing and two Grammys for comedy albums. In addition to a play, Picasso at the Lapin Agile, he has written a bestselling collection of comic pieces, Pure Drivel, and a bestselling novella, Shopgirl, which was made into a movie. His work appears frequently in The New Yorker and The New York Times.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 304 pages
• Publisher: Grand Central Publishing (November 23, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0446573647
• ISBN-13: 978-0446573641

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

I normally tear through Steve Martin's stories, but this one had a lot of information about international art trade and the New York art scene.  I really had to absorb the information to understand all of the plot points. The story revolves around Lacey and I am not really sure if she is good or bad, so I suppose like most people she has a bit of both.  Daniel is more of a narrator than actual character although he does tell the story from an observer's point of view and acts as a voice of reason even when he finds Lacey has used him in one of her schemes. 

A key point that is when Lacey finds out the biggest new name in art is a former boyfriend using the moniker of Pilot Mouse and of course Lacey uses that to her advantage, playing upon the giant egos that exist when money and objects collide.  Martin lampoons people who buy art for no other reason than to own it.  He explained this syndrome rather well when he appeared on the Colbert Report recently.  This is overall of Martin's more in depth books and it is well worth reading.

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!