Break for the holidays

     So most you of I am sure are busy with the holidays and I am happy to say so am I. This being said I barely get any reading done. Party hopping and such doesn't leave much time for it and at night I am just to tired.
     I finished my challenge for the year and will start reading again Jan 1. I hope all of you understand that I will not be posting anything until then. I love you all and hope that your holidays are great.
          Take care of yourselves and be very careful(especially if you are drinking).


HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!!!!

Fallen from Grace by: M.J. Putney

Publication Date: May 2011


Overview: Fallen From Grace A Bonus Dark Mirror Short Story

Allarde, a gorgeous, wealthy noble has hidden his true nature. Discover his diary and witness his sudden fall from grace.

My thoughts: I have to say this was the most boring book I have every read. i know that it really is just a short story based on a series, but I just couldn't figure this out. I got the download free from Barnes and Nobles on my Nook and thought I'd give it a chance. It wasn't even worth the time it took to download, which was nothing. 

This is basically based on  the journal of the main character of the series. I love finding old journals and reading but this one was not interesting at all. It seemed to drag on and on.

Sorry to fans of this series.

My rating: 1 star

Crossed by: Ally Condie

Publication Date: November 2011


Overview: The hotly awaited second book in the dystopian Matched trilogy

In search of a future that may not exist and faced with the decision of who to share it with, Cassia journeys to the Outer Provinces in pursuit of Ky - taken by the Society to his certain death - only to find that he has escaped, leaving a series of clues in his wake.

Cassia's quest leads her to question much of what she holds dear, even as she finds glimmers of a different life across the border. But as Cassia nears resolve and certainty about her future with Ky, an invitation for rebellion, an unexpected betrayal, and a surprise visit from Xander - who may hold the key to the uprising and, still, to Cassia's heart - change the game once again. Nothing is as expected on the edge of Society, where crosses and double crosses make the path more twisted than ever.

My thoughts: WOW!!! Can't believe it is finally time to post this. I think I have withheld for a while. I didn't want to admit that I read it in a day and that now I can't help thinking about what is to come.

Cassia is trying to find Ky... no matter what chances she has to take. 

she ends up on a plane with the Aberrations, which she had to sneak to get in line for. I think it was a very risky choice considering the fact that everyone that landed where Ky was ended up dead. 

Ky in the mean time has escaped camp and is on the run for his life. 

I love that he is brave enough to run as well, but my question is "Does he love Cassia as much as she loves him?" 

I really don't think he does, but I could be wrong. It wouldn't be the first time. 

Xander is still my number one guy, I think he had to let her go so she could realize he was wrong.

Ky and Cassia find each other after a long journey and they end up making new friends, and losing one. 

After that they find what they are looking for only to be put to work. Cassia is back in society and Ky is flying a plane....

My rating: 5 stars

Lover Unleased by: J.R. Ward

Publication Date: November 2011


Overview: Payne, twin sister of the Black Dagger Brother Vishous, suffers a devastating injury, and brilliant human surgeon Manuel Manello is called in to save her. Their attraction is instant, and as powerful as it is dangerous. But as human and vampire worlds collide, a centuries- old score catches up with Payne and puts both her love and her life in jeopardy.


My thoughts: I am so glad I finally got to know more about Wrath's sparring partner. And to find that she is one of the brother's long lost sister is even better.
I know for a fact that she got the raw end of the deal as far as parents come and at time i even feel bad for her. But I do know that her mom kept her locked away to keep her safe and at some point Payne is going to realize this and forgive her mom.
This book is a great way to get to know more about V too. And I think it is great that he has finally put the past behind him and fought those inner demons, so that he a Doc Jane can finally have peace.
Payne gets kidnapped and Manny comes to the rescue to find her. But really they find that the one who kidnapped her was after finding the truth grateful. And he let her go. 
Through all of this and a broken back Payne and Doc Manny fall in love. 
Manny turns out to have family in the brotherhood as well. But who?


My rating 4 stars

Lover Mine by J.R. Ward

Publication Date: November 2010


Overview: Darius, a fallen Brother, has returned to the fold with a new identity and a very different destiny. Now, John Matthew, plunged into the heart of war, must face off against evil incarnate-and rescue his one true love.


My thoughts: John Matthew has to be one of the strongest males in the series. He has overcome so much. and even when there were times to throw in the towel he kept going. 
He found Xhex...in my opinion they were meant to find each other and go through all the things they have.
He was used by her and she was used by him. but in the end i think they both knew that at some point they would be together.
After everything, he fights his heart out to find her. And kills multiple lesser's searching for her.
Lash had her and the boys got her back...Thank God!
Xhex wants John but how does a string independent female confess that? In the end there is no other way but  by being together....The end kinda got me! But I loved every minute of reading.


My rating : 5 stars

Challenges

    To let all my readers know I want a challenge. If you know of any young adult reading challenges for 2012 please send me a link. I am interested and have several I am think about right now, but I am always looking for more. 
      This year I did the good reads challenge and it really pushed me...especially considering i went through readers block this year for the first time ever. If you have ever faced that it sucks.....i didn't want to read and i could even concentrate to make myself read for a month...horrible.


Please find me challenges......Hugs to all!

Lover Avenged by J.R. Ward

Publication Date: November 2009

Overview: Rehvenge is used to living in the shadows and dealing with the roughest night walkers around-including the Black Dagger Brotherhood. As his secret identity as a sympath is threatened, he turns to the only light in his ever darkening world- a female vampire untouched by corruption, who's the only thing standing between him and eternal damnation.

My thoughts: Rehvenge what can I say other than I don't like him. He;'s not worth the ground he walks on. He protects whats his and his alone. I found it hard to read this book and to deal with all his drama. He is a man whore...truly. And although he doen't like it he keeps doing it for a long time.
Ehlena can do better and should. I feel bad for her becuase she has a lot to deal with her father is meantally ill and she has to take on all responsibilites.
Rehvenge got everything that was coming to him and by him blowing up the club all I can say is YES!!!!!!! It was time to shut the whole thing down.

My rating: 2 stars

Lover Enshrined by J.R. Ward

Publication Date: June 2008

Overview:   As Primale of the Chosen, the fiercely loyal Phury has sacrificed himself for the good of his race. But his first mate, the Chosen Cormia, wants not only his body but his heart for herself. As tragedy looms over the Brotherhood's mansion, Phury must decide between duty and love…

My thoughts: Phury, brother to vishous who loves Bella as well and has to face facts that he can't have her. I feel really bad for him. He lost his leg and is addicted to drugs. He give it up so that Vishous can be with Doc Jane. He becomes Primale. which means he must bed all the Virgins in order to help reproduce and get more brothers to fight the lesser society.
He falls in love though. With someone new and in the end he frees the females....or at least the ones that want to be free. And he no longers lives with the brothers he now lives with the females he released...whata  change.

My rating: 4 stars

Lover Unbound by: J.R.Ward

Publication Date: September 2007

Overview

The ruthless and brilliant brother Vishous possesses a destructive curse and a frightening ability to see the future. As a member of the Brotherhood, he has no interest in love or emotion, only the battle with the Lessening Society. But when a mortal injury puts him in the care of a human surgeon, Dr. Jane Whitcomb compels him to reveal his inner pain and taste true pleasure for the first time-until a destiny he didn't choose takes him into a future that does not include her...

 

My thoughts: Vishous.....how unlucky it is to be him. his father hurt him deply and everyone just let him. Years later he still deals with the pain from his past.

When he gets shot they take him to a human hospital  and Jane is his doctor. Getting shot was the best thing that could have happened to him.

He found love and jis mother....WOW!!!! And although I have to say i kinda hate her she did sacrifice alot so he could have Jane. ANd could there be a sister tooooooo. WOW is all I can say!

 

My rating 4 stars

Lover Revealed by J.R. Ward

Publication Date:  September 2009

Overview:  Butch O'Neal is a fighter by nature. A hard-living ex-homicide cop, he's the only human ever to be allowed in the inner circle of the Black Dagger Brotherhood. And he wants to go even deeper into the vampire world-to engage in the turf war with the lessers. His heart belongs to a female vampire, Marissa, an aristocratic beauty who's way out of his league. And if he can't have her, then at least he can fight side by side with the Brothers.But fate curses him with the very thing he wants. When Butch sacrifices himself to save a civilian vampire from the slayers, he falls prey to the darkest force in the war. Left for dead, he's found by a miracle, and the Brotherhood calls on Marissa to bring him back, though even her love may not be enough to save him.

My thoughts: Butch. I have to say that he is my least favorite of all the brothers. Of course he didn't start as a brother and only found he was one after having to live with them, when he figured out what they really were.
I can resepct that he fights for whats right and all but really he gets on my nerves.
Living as a human and being in love with vampire is hard for him and even harder for the vampire, Marissa. She use to be the king's blood source but now she is nothing, or so she thinks. butch must convince her that he is right for her and that she is beautiful and he wants more than SEX from her.
Marissa should have stood up against her brother a long time ago and now I am glad she has done it but I think that if she had done so sooner she would have been happier alot faster.

My rating: 3 stars

Lover Awakened by: J.R. Ward

Publication Date: September 2006

Overview: Even within the vampire brotherhood, Zsadist is feared. Still bearing the scars from a tortured past, he is renowned for his unquenchable fury. Anger is his only companion, and terror is his only passion-until he rescues a beautiful female from the evil Lessening Society.

My thoughts: Zsadist the biggest and baddest of the brother with a temper and a scar that could scare the Jesus out of anyone. He has had the worst past by far. Stolen from his home as a child and made to be a slave and a sex slave no less.
His brother saved him and now he is consumed by rage and hatred, who could blame him. His past haunts him, he has never found release from it.
Until Bella, she loved him instantly and wants him badly. She tries to convince him he is worth loving but he wants nothing from her. his brother even beats him to ease so of he pain he feels from his past. how that helps I will never know.
Bella ends up kidnapped, like his past he jumps into high gear and hunts untik he finds and saves her. while helping her heal he finds that he does love her and they end up pregnant.....YAY!
The only thing is vampire pregnancies last 18 months and most mothers never survive....will Bella.

My rating: 5 stars

Elphame's Choice by: P.C. Cast

Publication Date: September 2009


Overview:
I was marked from birth as belonging to the Goddess Epona--but that didn't make my life easy. Because of my "blessings," I was set apart, worshipped, unable to make real connections with others. Then came the Feeling, and with it a glimpse of my destiny. It led me to the MacCallen castle of legend, deserted since the terrible Fomorian war.
I followed the wordless call to breathe new life into a place long dead, but I didn't realize there were dark remnants of the war lingering in the nearby forest--victims and survivors who remained hidden. Others marked as different, powerful. Feared.
My choice was now twofold. I could keep to the happiness and safety of my new found home, or I could choose a path that led to something more terrible, more dangerous, more thrilling than anything I'd ever expected.
And in that future I might never be alone again. . .

My thoughts: I am not surprised to find the dark creatures of the past are back. although I am surprised to find that one of them is not evil, but good. He also loves Elphame. He saves her and her new clan from his clan.
Brenna was most unfortunate, she was burn and lost her family. She comes to a new place to start over and finds love. She did not deserve her fate, and her lover did not deserve what he got either.
Cu is cocky tho and at times I feel like someone should smack him just to set him straight. I do think it is time for him to find his true path in life and live it, instead of trying to care for others.
Elphame took great risk, but lucky for her it work out for the best and she got to find love.

My rating: 4 stars

Darkness Becomes Her by: Kelly Keaton

Publication Date: February 2011


Overview:
Ari can’t help feeling lost and alone. With teal eyes and freakish silver hair that can’t be changed or destroyed, Ari has always stood out. And after growing up in foster care, she longs for some understanding of where she came from and who she is.
Her search for answers uncovers just one message from her long dead mother: Run. Ari can sense that someone, or something, is getting closer than they should. But it’s impossible to protect herself when she doesn’t know what she’s running from or why she is being pursued.
She knows only one thing: she must return to her birthplace of New 2, the lush rebuilt city of New Orleans. Upon arriving, she discovers that New 2 is very...different. Here, Ari is seemingly normal. But every creature she encounters, no matter how deadly or horrifying, is afraid of her.
Ari won’t stop until she knows why. But some truths are too haunting, too terrifying, to ever be revealed.

My thoughts: This story is about an orphan who was put in foster care by her mother. She assumed her mother didn't want her, but truth be told she was trying to keep her safe.
She ends up going away to find out more about her past and when she does she finds her mother is dead. She finds out things about her mother that she never would have guessed. She also finds love...in unexpected places.
She helps the love- Sebastian find his father. Although that was by accident, her father was there too, but she didn't realize that at the time. But she did try to help him escape but he chose to stay in  the prison alone.
And she find out that Sebastian is a vampire, his mother was one as well and his father is a wizard.
I just have to say that most of this is good. Parts of it were a little too weird for me, you'll see that if you check it out. I also am so glad she found Sebastian. He seems like a really great catch.

My rating: 4 stars 

New Look

I hope you all enjoy the new look. I thought it was time to update. I don't know how I feel about it yet. This is the 2nd background/ template that I have tried, so hopefully it will stick. In the mean time check out the new posts.

Please feel free to suggest new titles. I enjoy the feedback and now that I have my laptop I can post from anywhere.

Lover Eternal by: J.R. Ward

Publication Date: March 2006


Overview: Within the brotherhood, Rhage is the vampire with the strongest appetite. He's the best fighter, the quickest to act on his impulses, and the most voracious lover-for inside him burns a ferocious curse cast by the Scribe Virgin.
Possessed by this dark side, Rhage fears the times when his inner dragon is unleashed, making him a danger to everyone around him. When Mary Luce is unwittingly thrown into the vampire world, she must rely on Rhage's protection. Knowing that Mary feels the same intense animal attraction, Rhage must make her his alone...

My thoughts: Rhage is a fighter that is for sure. And a beast is contained within him, his curse. And I do mean within him. I feel really bad for him. He seems so sweet regardless of how he is potrayed.
Rhage meets Mary, on accident and is smitten instantly.
He gets the girl, but both of them have hidden demons and they most reveal them to each other in order to stay together. which means they have to trust. And truat they do.
But Mary has cancer and is dying, what will Rhage do I know I would be crazy with rage.
Rhage makes a bargin with the Virgin Scribe and in the end some dreams come true other don't.
Things don't always work out the way you think they will.

My rating: 5 stars

Dark Lover J.R. Ward

Publication Date: September 2005


Overview: In the shadows of the night in Caldwell, New York, there's a deadly turf war going on between vampires and their slayers. There exists a secret band of brothers like no other-six vampire warriors, defenders of their race. Yet none of them relishes killing more than Wrath, the leader of The Black Dagger Brotherhood.


The only purebred vampire left on earth, Wrath has a score to settle with the slayers who murdered his parents centuries ago. But, when one of his most trusted fighters is killed-leaving his half-breed daughter unaware of his existence or her fate-Wrath must usher her into the world of the undead-a world of sensuality beyond her wildest dreams.

My thoughts: I know this isn't young adult, but I love this series. i actually bought the first book man years ago and was going to try it. I read the first 2 chapters and decided it wasn't for me. But my younger sister swears by this series. she has the whole family reading these books now. So I decided to give it another try. So i stole my copy back from her.....LOL
      Wrath is known as the relentless king amoung the brothers in this brotherhood. but really I didn't see himthat way at all. He seemed to only want what was best for eveyone and if that meant throwing his weight around, oh well.
      One of the brotherhood gets killed, on purpose. Wrath finds this mans daughter and explains to her that she is half vampire and that she will go through the change. She has to believe him becuase she doesn't know her family.
     After she figures out that Wrath isn't evil she falls in love with him. Oh and this good king and a disability...I won't tell you what that is.

My rating: 5 stars

Wintergirls by: Laurie Halse Anderson

Publication Date: February 2010

Overview:
“Dead girl walking,” the boys say in the halls.
“Tell us your secret,” the girls whisper, one toilet to another.
I am that girl.
I am the space between my thighs, daylight shining through.
I am the bones they want, wired on a porcelain frame.
Lia and Cassie were best friends, wintergirls frozen in matchstick bodies.
But now Cassie is dead. Lia’s mother is busy saving other people’s lives.
Her father is away on business. Her stepmother is clueless. And the voice inside Lia’s head keeps telling her to remain in control, stay strong, lose more, weigh less. If she keeps on going this way – thin, thinner, thinnest – maybe she’ll disappear altogether.
In her most emotionally wrenching, lyrically written book since the National Book Award finalist Speak, best-selling author Laurie Halse Anderson explores one girl’s chilling descent into the all-consuming vortex of anorexia.

My thoughts: This book really spoke to me. I have dealt with eating disorders in my family for a long time. And this book is just a point of view from the person who is actually struggling. I found it refreshing to really feel the way she felt.
I think if you know someone with a eating disorder you should pick this book up and read it. It will help you understand.
I felt bad for these girls, whose families have so much going on they don't seem to care til it's almost too late. And for one family it is too late. And I think someone should slap them in the face. You have children to enjoy them and if your not spending time with them, then how can you enjoy them.
These girls face so much it's hard to tell how this starts, and how do you truly end it either.

My rating 5 stars

Spellbound by: Cara Lynn Schultz

Publication Date: June 2011

Overview: What's a girl to do when meeting The One means she's cursed to die a horrible death?
Life hasn't been easy on sixteen-year-old Emma Conner, so a new start in New York may be just the change she needs. But the posh Upper East Side prep school she has to attend? Not so much. Friendly faces are few and far between, except for one that she's irresistibly drawn to—Brendan Salinger, the guy with the rock-star good looks and the richest kid in school, who might just be her very own white knight.
But even when Brendan inexplicably turns cold, Emma can't stop staring. Ever since she laid eyes on him, strange things have been happening. Streetlamps go out wherever she walks, and Emma's been having the oddest dreams: visions of herself in past lives—visions that warn her to stay away from Brendan. Or else.

My thoughts: Emma, Emma, this poor girl. She lost her twin, and then her mom. And unfortunately her step-dad almost killed them both in a car crash because he was drunk. Why she chose to stay with that low life I will never know?
But then she moves in with her aunt, which was the best possible thing to do.
School life isn't easy...whose is? But she has to deal with kids she's never met being jerks and drama queens. Brendan, her feelings for him are confusing at first. And her disgust for Anthony only grows stronger with each day. He gets her in trouble and the "COW" Kristin gets her in deeper trouble.
And yet she and Brendan were meant to be together....does it take almost dying to figure that out....IDK?

My rating: 4 stars

Wolfsbane by: Andrea Cremer

Publication Date: July 2011

Overview: This thrilling sequel to the much-talked-about Nightshade begins just where it ended-Calla Tor wakes up in the lair of the Searchers, her sworn enemy, and she's certain her days are numbered. But then the Searchers make her an offer-one that gives her the chance to destroy her former masters and save the pack-and the man-she left behind. Is Ren worth the price of her freedom? And will Shay stand by her side no matter what? Now in control of her own destiny, Calla must decide which battles are worth fighting and how many trials true love can endure and still survive.

My thoughts: I love the adventure these wolves face. I can't believe all the drama that has taken place.
I am so glad that Shay and Calla have found friends/allies that are helping them get the pack back.
I am furious that Ren, Dax and Cosette have chosen the wrong path. But I hope at some point they chose to change their minds.
Calla and Adne are off on another adventure and no one knows where they are.......will they fail?

My rating: 5 stars

Trial by Fire by: Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Publication Date: June 2011

Overview:
There can only be one alpha.

Bryn is finally settling into her position as alpha of the Cedar Ridge Pack—or at least, her own version of what it means to be alpha when you’re a human leading a band of werewolves. Then she finds a teenage boy bleeding on her front porch. Before collapsing, he tells her his name is Lucas, he’s a Were, and Bryn’s protection is his only hope.

But Lucas isn’t part of Bryn’s pack, and she has no right to claim another alpha’s Were.  With threats—old and new—looming, and danger closing in from all sides, Bryn will have to accept what her guardian Callum knew all along. To be alpha, she will have to give in to her own animal instincts and become less human. And, she’s going to have to do it alone.

Bryn faces both the costs, and the rewards, of love and loyalty, in this thrilling sequel to Raised by Wolves.

My thoughts: I love this series. I love the wolves and the tales of whose in charge and such things. Bryn and her crew of weres are fighting physics. And man are they powerful. Thanks Shay for setting them on to the group....you low life scum...lol!
There group leader is Valerie and just a heads up she is somehow related to someone in Bryn's group! After a battle and struggle to survive...the group have one that dies, one the betrays and one that decides the best thing to do is to leave. The group was stronger than they thought they were but now how can they survive everything that happens after the fight.
Bryn goes to Callum, to ask for a huge favor, but he tells her it isn't time for that.

My rating: 5 stars

Bliss by: Lauren Myracle

Publication Date: January 2011

Overview:
When Bliss’s hippie parents leave the commune and dump her at the home of her aloof grandmother in a tony Atlanta neighborhood, it’s like being set down on an alien planet. The only guide naive Bliss has to her new environment is what she’s seen on The Andy Griffith Show. But Mayberry is poor preparation for Crestview Academy, an elite school where the tensions of the present and the dark secrets of the past threaten to simmer into violence. Openhearted, naive Bliss is happy to be friends with anyone. That’s not the way it has ever worked at Crestview, and soon Bliss is at the center of a struggle for power between three girls—two living and one long dead.

My thoughts: I honestly couldn't get past the first few chapters. I bought the book on a passing thought and really didn't want to read it. I tried to make myself read it and I couldn't. I found it lame...bad thing to say but that's how I feel. I have had this book since May and hadn't read it and felt like I should give it a try to get it off my TBR pile and it just didn't work.

My rating: 1 star

Dark Secrets 2 by: Elizabeth Chandler

Publication Date: May 2010

Overview:
In No Time to Die, the drama is deadly. Jenny is going undercover for the summer at the theater camp where her sister, Liza, was murdered just a year earlier. Though Jenny is still grieving the loss of her sister and feels completely out of place on stage, she is determined to discover why Liza was murdered—and more importantly, who killed her. Soon she thinks she hears Liza speaking to her, and suspects someone may be following her. The drama is even more twisted than she thought….
In The Deep End of Fear, Kate thought she was done with daring adventures after her childhood friend Ashley tragically drowned in an icy pond. But when she returns to her childhood home, it all comes flooding back. To stop history from repeating itself, Kate must face the childhood fears that have haunted her for so long….


My thoughts: No Time To Die - I love that these sisters are so opposite but at the same time, Jenny decides to go undercover and risk her life to find out exactly what happened to her sister. In doing so she has to face her fear and get on stage to perform. Good thing she finds a chance at love while she has to face the pain of the past at the same time.
The Dead End of Fear - Kate has come back to a town that her and her family ran from years before. She wants to return something that her father had stolen. And to get in she has to take a job and that job is a nanny/ tutor. She loves this little boy and will do anything to keep him safe. Who is she keeping him safe from? His family...all except his mother who is trying to blame Kate for the trouble. With Sam the hockey players help the figure out the killer or should I say killers!

My rating: 4 stars

Dark Secrets 1 by: Elizabeth Chandler

Publication Date:August 2009

Overview: Two girls haunted by the past...and destined to relive it
In Legacy of Lies, Megan has to stay with the uptight grandmother she wants nothing to do with. She's determined to get through the visit without any drama, but when she falls into a twisted love triangle with potentially fatal consequences, Megan may be caught up in her family's legacy in more ways than she realizes.
In Don't Tell, Lauren knows that by returning to the town where her mother drowned seven years ago, she'll be reliving one of her most haunting memories. When she arrives, she is propelled into a series of mysterious events that mimic the days leading up to her mother's death. Maybe her mother's drowning wasn't an accident after all...and maybe Lauren is next.


My thoughts: Legacy of Lies..... I really enjoyed Megan. Especially her relationships with Matt.  Who is legally her cousin but wow...are they in love and deserve to be together. And the surprise of who killed Avril was great. i like most people suspected the grandmother. And even I thought that Matt was helping scare Megan, but man was I wrong.
Don't Tell........Poor Lauren, has had to live with her life without a mother. She went to her godmother's for vacation but ends up being tormented. Tormented by memories and someone out to kill her. And again I assumed it was Nora the demented child but no it was her sister....And lets just say she had help and I hope that they get what's coming to them.

My rating:5 stars

Ballad by: Maggie Stiefvater

Publication Date: October 2009

Overview:
FROM THE AUTHOR OF THE NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING NOVEL SHIVER

"Ballad is giddy, intoxicating, and threatening all at once. It is a sheer edge-read: you feel like you stand on a cliff through every scene, only barely clinging to the world, not knowing who is coming up behind you!" —Tamora Pierce, New York Times bestselling author of the Protector of the Small Quartet

"With its razor wit, compelling characters, and deliriously beautiful prose, Ballad will make you laugh and gasp out loud even as it breaks your heart." —R.J. Anderson, author of Faery Rebels: Spell Hunter

"Maggie Stiefvater excels at writing wonderfully complex characters who face wickedly impossible obstacles. Ballad had me hooked until the pulse-pounding end. Readers who loved Lament will devour Ballad and plead for more!" —Carrie Ryan, author of The Forest of Hands and Teeth

Remember us, so sing the dead, lest we remember you

James Morgan has an almost unearthly gift for music. And it has attracted Nuala, a soul-snatching faerie muse who fosters and then feeds on the creative energies of exceptional humans until they die. James has plenty of reasons to fear the faeries, but as he and Nuala collaborate on an achingly beautiful musical composition, James finds his feelings towards Nuala deepening. But the rest of the fairies are not as harmless.

My thoughts: I really enjoyed reading this book. It was the second in the series. And most importantly it was from James' point of view. To get a guys feeling on this is hard to do and the author did so...brilliantly. James' feeling about things are no different then what most girls would feel when they are in love only with less tears and drama...or almost less drama.
I really don't want James to be with Nuala. I feel like she is a ruddy cow only out to destroy what was already there and what was really important. I love Dee and like she and James are destined to be together. They need to give everything time and chances to work thing out for itself. It was sad that they had to lose a great teacher, but like all things, some come to and end faster....

My Rating: 5 Stars

Living with the Dead by: Kelley Armstrong

Publication Date: October 2008

Overview:
The men and women of the Otherworld – witches, werewolves, demons, vampires – live unseen among us. Only now a reckless killer has torn down the wall, trapping one very human woman in the supernatural crossfire.
Robyn moved to LA after her husband died to try to put some distance between herself and the life they had together. And the challenges of her job as the PR consultant to a Paris Hilton wannabe are pretty distracting. But then her celebutante is gunned down in a night club, and Robyn is suddenly the prime suspect. The two people most determined to clear her are her old friend, the half-demon tabloid reporter Hope Adams, and a homicide detective with an uncanny affinity for the dead.
Soon Robyn finds herself in the heart of a world she never even knew existed – and which she was safer knowing nothing about . . .

My thoughts: Honestly I tried to read this book. For several days I read and read and in the end I found that the switching back and forth from different peoples point if view difficult to keep up with and I had to stop. I like the thoughts of the writer. I just couldn't go with it all.
For all of you who enjoyed this book...I'm sorry your not getting a descent review.

My rating: 2...for the thoughts of the writer

Wings by: Aprilynne Pike

Publications Date: April 2010

Overview:
Laurel was mesmerized, staring at the pale things with wide eyes. They were terrifyingly beautiful—too beautiful for words.
Laurel turned to the mirror again, her eyes on the hovering petals that floated beside her head. They looked almost like wings.
In this extraordinary tale of magic and intrigue, romance and danger, everything you thought you knew about faeries will be changed forever.

My thoughts: Laurel is a lucky girl. She is home schooled most of her life. This year she is put into public school after the family moves to a new town. In this town her life changes...everything she knew, was wrong and now she has to learn the truth...not only about herself but about her real family as well.
     She meets David, whom she falls in love with instantly and with good reason he helps her in every way. She also meets Chelsea, who becomes her best friend...something she has never had before.
    With David by her side she uncovers all of these secrets about herself. She is not living but what is she. I will leave that for you to find out.

My rating: 4 stars

Fade by: Lisa McMann

Publication Date: December 2010

Overview: 
SOME NIGHTMARES NEVER END.
For Janie and Cabel, real life is getting tougher than the dreams. They're just trying to carve out a little (secret) time together, but no such luck.
Disturbing things are happening at Fieldridge High, yet nobody's talking. When Janie taps into a classmate's violent nightmares, the case finally breaks open — but nothing goes as planned. Not even close. Janie's in way over here, and Cabel's shocking behavior has grave consequences for them both.
Worse yet, Janie learns the truth about herself and her ability — and it's bleak. Seriously, brutally bleak. Not only is her fate as a dream catcher sealed, but what's to come is way darker than she'd feared....

My thoughts: Janie and Cabel are back. Both fighting crime undercover. And being in love....undercover.
This year instead of the usual drug bust it's a child molester. And instead of finding one pervert they get 3...yes 3 and they all work at Janie and Cabel's school. And some of them where faves of Janie's. After attending a laced with roofies party Janie almost is raped by one and they make their bust.
The only good thing about that is they catch the guys and then Janie and Cabel get to be together.
The tough art of the dreams that she still has is it is making her blind...She is no longer aloud to drive which must be tough on a girl who has to make her own way in the world.

My Rating: 4 stars

Wake by:Lisa McMann

Publication Date: December 2008
About the Book:
When Janie is eight years old, it happens for the first time: While traveling with her mother, she suddenly blacks out and is plunged into a strange office setting where a balding man is in his ratty underwear, being ridiculed by his coworkers. Janie has somehow been catapulted into the dream of the sleeping man in the seat in front of her. Unable to control her entry into his dream, Janie also has no idea how to speak or help once inside. This scary scene repeats itself over the years. Janie learns to avoid sleepovers, as she finds herself inside the dreams of the other girls, learning things about them that she may have preferred not to know. Then, when she's in high school, the worst situation presents itself: study hall in the library right after lunch. Janie is sucked into the dreams of her classmates — some simple and innocent, some frightening, and one featuring herself and the dreamer engaged in a kiss! Janie's gift (or curse) is usually a burden, but now it's more confusing than ever as she gets closer to Cabel, whose dreams include a scary past along with passionate kisses.

My thoughts: Janie who seems to fall asleep at the drop of a hat...travels through dreams, bad and good. She tries to help others in their dream over come fears or escape tragedies.
When she's in the dreams she has no control over her body. And when others see her like this they freak out and think she is weird, she is sort of. You got to admit anyone who falls asleep so much has to be weird or have something wrong. It's also dangerous for her to be out and about in public doing these things.
She has known Cabel forever but he was just some punk who she had no feelings for, until this year. when he has changed and she has changed too. Now he is undercover for the police to make a living and they have to pretend that they don't get along or hang out, but truth is there is love building there.

My rating: 4 stars

Bloodlines by: Richelle Mead

Publication Date: Aug. 23, 2011

Overview: The first book in Richelle Mead's brand-new teen fiction series - set in the same world as Vampire Academy.
When alchemist Sydney is ordered into hiding to protect the life of Moroi princess Jill Dragomir, the last place she expects to be sent is a human private school in Palm Springs, California. But at their new school, the drama is only just beginning.
Populated with new faces as well as familiar ones, Bloodlines explores all the friendship, romance, battles and betrayals that made the #1 New York Times bestselling Vampire Academy series so addictive - this time in a part-vampire, part-human setting where the stakes are even higher and every one's out for blood.


My thoughts: OK so apparently I read this book way back in early September but am just now getting around to posting...sorry if you have been following and have been bored looking at the old post.
Wow...is a word that I would use for a book that I have waited forever to read. I was so sad when Vampire Academy ended and hated that I would never get to read more tales from Rose and Dimitri. But ready this series has helped...you at least hear about them and their wonderful times together.
Sydney in my opinion was very misunderstood. Sure she was weird around vampire, but wouldn't you be if you were brainwashed to believe that they were evil, but you had to protect them anyway. I am just glad she finally has her won series to let the world know the truth about her and her feeling on vampires. And sure she is still uneasy but she is warming up to them.
Keith is a jerk and deserves everything and more that he gets. I can't believe what he did to Syd's sister. And hope he is found out and rots in the hell he has created for himself.
Lee another new character is a vampire gone wrong...that's all I can say to describe someone who wants to be evil and does everything in hie power to get back to that.
I feel really bad for Jill, someone whose life has been turned upside down and inside out, and then is moved to a far of place to be kept from danger. To her it's punishment, but we know it's for the best.
Adrian and Eddie are back. And man do these boys need to step up their game. I think they would be great mates for Syd and Jill, if they ever had the courage to do something about it
Can't wait for more.....

My rating: 5 stars

Catching Fire by: Suzanne Collins

Publication Date: Spetmeber 2009

Overview: Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has won the annual Hunger Games with fellow district tribute Peeta Mellark. But it was a victory won by defiance of the Capitol and their harsh rules. Katniss and Peeta should be happy. After all, they have just won for themselves and their families a life of safety and plenty. But there are rumors of rebellion among the subjects, and Katniss and Peeta, to their horror, are the faces of that rebellion. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge.

My thoughts: In the begining Katniss is dealing with life back in town. After everything at the Hungar Games, life back at home everything is not what it seems. She loves Peeta and Gale and doesn't want to admit it. She's fighting everything! Peacekeepers change and this start things in motion for change. Including Katniss and her friends and fmily. They all think of leaving, running away to find another place to life and who could blame them. Not me, really. Their life has never been easy. And most of us complain about our lives on a daily basis, we need to take a page from this book and try to live it. I really don't think we'd make it.
Anyway, the Hungar Games begin again and this time Katniss and Peeta go back. Due to an anniversary celebration. Do they both make it out alive this time or do they die?
And we find the uprising had truly begun.

My rating:5 stars

Incarceron by: Catherine Fisher

Publication Date:February 2011

Overview:
Incarceron is a prison so vast that it contains not only cells and corridors, but metal forests, dilapidated cities, and wilderness. It has been sealed for centuries, and only one man has ever escaped. Finn has always been a prisoner here. Although he has no memory of his childhood, he is sure he came from Outside. His link to the Outside, his chance to break free, is Claudia, the warden's daughter, herself determined to escape an arranged marriage. They are up against impossible odds, but one thing looms above all: Incarceron itself is alive . . .

My thoughts:I loved the idea of an inescapable prison. It was very thrilling, not knowing if it was real or if they would get out.
Giles and prince is dead...or so we were told. And his intended bride is told she must now marry his brother who is a spoiled prince and wants nothing to do with rules. his mother has planned all of this because she knows Claudia's secret. It's a big secret that not even Claudia knows about.
Finn is a boy that was born and raised in the prison. He has no family only an oath brother and  a mentor to help guide him through life.
Finn and his friends find a key that lets them talk to Claudia and now with her help they may have a chance of life on the outside...
And could it be that Finn is Giles!!!!!

My Rating: 4 stars

9th Grade Slays by: Heather Brewer

Publication Date: January 2009

Overview:
If middle school stunk for Vladimir Tod, high school is a real drain. Besides being a punching bag for bullies, he’s still stalled with dream girl Meredith, and he’s being tailed by a photographer from the school newspaper. Needless to say, practicing his vampire skills hasn’t exactly been a priority for Vlad — until now. A monumental trip to Siberia with Uncle Otis is Vlad’s crash course in Vampire 101. Training alongside the most gifted vampires is exactly what Vlad needs to sharpen those mind-control skills he’s been avoiding. And he’d better get it right, because the battle brewing back home with the slayer who’s been stalking him could be Vlad’s last.

My thoughts: My cousin and I both argue about this book. I think it was better than the first but she likes the first one.....we'll see which is better...LOL
I really like Henry, he isn't afraid of anything and in fact seems to enjoy helping. Even if it means that Vlad needs to bite him.
I'm glad to see Vlad is awkward with girls, it makes me feel good knowing it isn't always girls that are shy or embarrassed easily when it comes to new relationships and things.
I think that Otis, Vlad's uncle is chicken poo. He seems really afraid of everything, unlike Vlad who is ready to defend his uncle and himself.
Their family friend seems like a really great guy. He is so helpful to Vlad and isn't afraid to hit dark areas, which can be bed, but I also think it is the best way to let Vlad know what he's up against.
Joss, Henry's cousin, is an idiot. Really he's a a bad guy. But I can't believe that he hide his secret for so long. And he is working for the wrong people. And sooner or later he will figure it out. Maybe when they are feeding off him or trying to kill him.

My rating: 4 stars

Ghost Huntress: The Guidance by: Marley Gibson

Publication Date: November 2010

Overview: 

Kendall and her ghost hunting team is the talk of Radisson, Georgia, but one person isn’t so pleased. Courtney Langdon doesn’t appreciate Kendall’s new popularity or her relationship with Jason, Courtney’s ex.

So Courtney begins dabbling in the paranormal world. At first it’s all a game to draw attention away from Kendall. But Courtney doesn’t know what she’s getting into—or what wants in her. This is one game that’s about to turn deadly serious.

And for more about Kendall and the ghost huntresses, check out www.ghosthuntress.com!


My thoughts: I love this series...when I read the first book I got really excited knowing that the author had consulted real ghost hunters. And those ghost hunters had their own shows and and I watched them.
This book is more about Courtney the evil cow from school. She think she is losing her popularity to Kendall and her gang and tries everything to get revenge when that doesn't work she calls up an evil soldier and he oppresses her. she begins to act strange, and every one at school notices....even the teachers. Kendall and the group get together and get the soldier out of court. It's a fight but it works and Kendall plus the priest and Loreen save the day.

My Rating: 4 stars

Prophecy of the Sisters by: Michelle Zink

Publication Date: July 2010

Overview: An ancient prophecy divides two sisters-
One good...
One evil...
Who will prevail?
Twin sisters Lia and Alice Milthorpe have just become orphans. They have also become enemies. As they discover their roles in a prophecy that has turned generations of sisters against each other, the girls find themselves entangled in a mystery that involves a tattoo-like mark, their parents' deaths, a boy, a book, and a lifetime of secrets.
Lia and Alice don't know whom they can trust.
They just know they can't trust each other.


My thoughts: I read this book because my cousin had it on the coffee table and the cover kind of drew me in that and the title. I wondered what could cause the sisters to be against each other. and truthfully I was angered that they could let their brother die and other things. Blood is thicker than water and yet they both let their brother become endangered and die.
I really hope that the next installment is better than this first one.
I also hope that Lia gets to the keys first and saves the day, even though everyone says that only time will tell if she is evil. You have to know that she isn't the evil one. I know that Alice is evil, sometimes she reminds me of people that I know who just need to be slapped in their face...LOL! Sorry but it had to be said.
I also hope that things work out with Lia and James I think they deserve each other and things should work out unless Alice steps in while Lia's gone and tricks James into being with her.


My Rating: 3 stars

Cover Revealed: Destined

Looking Glass Wars by:Frank Beddor

Publication Date: August 2007

Overview: Alyss Heart can't stand that "master of fantasy" bunk; she knows that Lewis Carroll was nothing more than an incompetent reporter. After she generously shared her Wonderland experiences with this fledgling author, he totally botched the retelling, even mangling her name. Alyss, however, refuses to merely grouse; she and royal bodyguard Hatter Madigan decide to make another emergency excursion down the rabbit hole, opening our eyes to parallel realms that prim Rev. Dodgson never imagined. A refreshing take on a Victorian classic.

My thoughts: Okay so honestly...I couldn't get into this book. I read the first part but I just stopped. It wasn't that I wasn't interested because I was. I just felt like this has been done before. Everyone wants to put their pin on things and that's fine, but I didn't care for this one.
First you deal with Alyss who is a spoiled brat and deserves a good spanking and then Dodge who is in love with her, but really they are too young to even go their. And i can't even begin to discuss Hatter and Rabbit.
So I'm giving this book to my cousin to read and maybe she will come up with something better. Sorry to the fans of this series and this book.

My Rating: 2 stars