Yay! It's time to showcase some of our favorite reads and how better to spread the word than with a giveaway?!? Up for grabs, I have one of my favorite YA series:
In City of Bones, the handsome Jace introduces fifteen-year-old Clary Fray to the world of the Shadowhunters, a secret cadre of warriors dedicated to driving demons out of our world. She’s sure that Valentine, the evil and powerful Shadowhunter, is responsible for her mother’s disappearance, but she’s about to discover much more…. In the second book, City of Ashes, Clary’s mother remains in a mysterious coma, and danger abounds now that the Shadowhunter world knows Valentine is still alive—and that Clary and Jace are his children. Will Valentine succeed in making the Mortal Instruments his forever? In book three, City of Glass, Clary has to use all her ingenuity and newfound magical skills to get herself to the secretive Shadowhunters’ home country in an attempt to cure her mother’s enchanted sleeping sickness. When Valentine attacks the city and destroys the demon towers, the past tangles inextricably with the present as Clary and Jace face down their father.
** The boxed set up for grabs contains the first three books in The Mortal Instruments series by Cassie Clare. It is the paperback boxed set and it is pre-loved, though gently. I've since bought myself the boxed set in hardcover so that all of my copies for this series match. In case you weren't aware, I'm a little neurotic like that. :D **
I bought this series in 2010 when I was trying to discover something new to read after finishing The Hunger Games. However, it sat on my shelves for a few months before I finally gave in and gave it a read. And then I immediately pre-ordered City of Fallen Angels and read it in a day when it arrived. Okay, I lie. I pre-ordered it but I couldn't wait a few days to start it, so I downloaded a copy to my Nook for immediate reading pleasure. (Again, I'm a little neurotic, especially when it comes to my books.) Anyway, I have City of Lost Souls waiting for me at home, and I can't wait to get caught up on review books so I can get to it.
Before entering the Rafflecopter form below, just a reminder that this giveaway is for US residents only and the winner must respond within 48 hours to claim their prize or another winner will be selected. Also, again, please be aware that this boxed set has previously been read but is in good condition with minimal wear and tear. Thanks for entering and good luck!
Awhile on the Pile/From the Review Pile is a meme hosted by Stepping Out of the Pageevery Thursday but was also inspired by Rachel at My Reading Pile/Fiktshun.The aim of this meme is to showcase books that you've received for review -- or any book that you own and really want to read/review -- but haven't yet got around to reading in order to give the book some extra publicity.
Here's the book I chose to give some extra love this week:
Title: Vanish Author: Sophie Jordan Series: 2nd book in the Firelight series Publisher: HarperTeen Publication Date: September 6, 2011 Source: ARC from publisher
An impossible romance. Bitter rivalries. Deadly choices.
To save the life of the boy she loves, Jacinda did the unthinkable: She betrayed the most closely-guarded secret of her kind. Now she must return to the protection of her pride knowing she might never see Will again—and worse, that because his mind has been shaded, Will’s memories of that fateful night and why she had to flee are gone.
Back home, Jacinda is greeted with hostility and must work to prove her loyalty for both her sake and her family’s. Among the few who will even talk to her are Cassian, the pride’s heir apparent who has always wanted her, and her sister, Tamra, who has been forever changed by a twist of fate. Jacinda knows that she should forget Will and move on—that if he managed to remember and keep his promise to find her, it would only endanger them both. Yet she clings to the hope that someday they will be together again. When the chance arrives to follow her heart, will she risk everything for love?
So...the reason this one has been sitting on the pile for so long is because I haven't read the first book, Firelight, yet. And I am just not capable of starting a series in the middle...it just doesn't feel right. But I've heard great things about this series. I've got Firelight on my shelf, as well, but since Hidden's release is only mere months away, I think I'll just wait until then to start the series and read them all back-to-back. That way, no agonizing wait after what I've heard is a pretty big cliffhanger in Vanish.
Have you read any of this series? What do you think? Is my plan to wait a cop-out? :P
"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.
This week's WoW selection is...
Title: Days of Blood & Starlight
Author: Laini Taylor
Series: 2nd book in the Daughter of Smoke & Bone series
Publisher: Little, Brown & Company
Publication Date: November 6, 2012
In this stunning sequel to the highly acclaimed "Daughter of Smoke and Bone," Karou must come to terms with who and what she is, and how far she'll go to avenge her people. Filled with heartbreak and beauty, mysteries and secrets, new characters and old favorites, Days of Blood and Starlight brings the richness, color and intensity of the first book to a brand new canvas.
Daughter of Smoke and Bone was declared a "must read" by Entertainment Weekly, was named a Best Book of the Year by Amazon.com, and The New York Times called it "a breath-catching romantic fantasy."
Why I'm waiting: After reading DoSaB, I immediately began anticipating the sequel, but then they go and release the cover, and now November can't get here soon enough! DoSaB was one of my favorite reads last year, combining an awesome fantasy world with our own world and throwing a bit of romance in there for good measure. It was one of those books I practically read cover-to-cover, and I enjoyed it so much that I listened to the audio a short time after reading the book and loved the story even more the second time around. I can't wait to find out what Karou's next move will be, especially after the revelations at the end of DoSaB.
If you've read it, what did you think of DoSaB? And what are you waiting on this week? Share it in the comments!
Teaser Tuesday is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:
• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (Make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!
This week's teaser comes from the following book:
Title: My Life Next Door Author: Huntley Fitzpatrick Series: n/a Publisher: Dial Books for Young Readers Publication Date: June 14, 2012 Source: Netgalley
A gorgeous debut about family, friendship, first romance, and how to be true to one person you love without betraying another.
“One thing my mother never knew, and would disapprove of most of all, was that I watched the Garretts. All the time."
The Garretts are everything the Reeds are not. Loud, numerous, messy, affectionate. And every day from her balcony perch, seventeen-year-old Samantha Reed wishes she was one of them . . . until one summer evening, Jase Garrett climbs her terrace and changes everything. As the two fall fiercely in love, Jase's family makes Samantha one of their own. Then in an instant, the bottom drops out of her world and she is suddenly faced with an impossible decision. Which perfect family will save her? Or is it time she saved herself?
A dreamy summer read, full of characters who stay with you long after the story is over.
My teaser:
"Should I be worried?" I look up at him, my thoughts scattered. "About what?" "The fact that you're apparently the one girl on the planet who doesn't tell her best friend everything the moment it happens. I have sisters, Sam. I thought that was a rule--the best friend knows all. Yours didn't even know I existed." -- p. 173 of galley
Ouch! I doubt she's not telling people about their relationship because she's ashamed, though...
Leave your Tuesday Teaser in the comments so I can stop by!
In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. It's a weekly meme where we all get to brag about the books and swag we got in the mail, for review, won in contests, etc.
Okay, so remember last week how I was saying that I had to force myself not to request any more review copies because I already had enough on my plate? Yeah, that didn't last long. I have zero willpower when it comes to this sort of thing. o.O
So, I have this friend who makes these amazing SIMS trailers for books. I've linked to them or tweeted about them in the past, but a little while back, I forced her to read Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor. And she ended up loving the book as much as I did! Maybe even more because she was inspired to create the amazing SIMS trailer you see below.
Anyway, when I asked April if I could feature her DoSaB trailer on the blog, her only request was that I make sure to give full credit to Jessica, the artist behind the drawing of Brimstone. Jessica's work can be found on deviantART. I don't think I could have imagined a more perfect image of Brimstone than her representation.
Also, if you want to read a little more background on how April created the trailer and such, check out her post about it. I can't imagine the work she puts into these trailers, but they are full of awesome. She also did one for Fifty Shades of Grey, which had me rolling on the floor. April is currently working on a trailer for the sequel.
And, without further ado, here is the beautimous SIMS trailer for Daughter of Smoke and Bone, created by the wonderfully-talented April:
You can find April on Twitter, on her blog - Sim~Sational~Books, and on YouTube. Please stop by and tell her how awesome her trailer is!
Also, when I was working on adding the links to this post, I noticed that the cover for the sequel to DoSaB was up on Goodreads. When did that happen?!? In case you, too, missed it, here's the cover for Days of Blood and Starlight:
What do you think? Awesome, right? Can't wait to get your hands on it, right? Yeah, me either!
What better way to splash into summer than with a good book? (Just don't sit too close to the pool! :P) The winner at my stop will get their choice of one of the following ARCs:
Title: Me and Earl and the Dying Girl Author: Jesse Andrews Series: n/a Publisher: ABRAMS Publication Date: March 1, 2012
Greg Gaines is the last master of high school espionage, able to disappear at will into any social environment. He has only one friend, Earl, and together they spend their time making movies, their own incomprehensible versions of Coppola and Herzog cult classics.
Until Greg’s mother forces him to rekindle his childhood friendship with Rachel.
Rachel has been diagnosed with leukemia—cue extreme adolescent awkwardness—but a parental mandate has been issued and must be obeyed. When Rachel stops treatment, Greg and Earl decide the thing to do is to make a film for her, which turns into the Worst Film Ever Made and becomes a turning point in each of their lives.
And all at once Greg must abandon invisibility and stand in the spotlight.
--OR--
Title: Lost Girls
Author: Ann Kelley
Series: n/a
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: July 10, 2012
No parents. No rules. No way home.
Fourteen-year-old Bonnie MacDonald couldn't be more excited for a camping trip on an island off the coast of Thailand with her fellow Amelia Earhart Cadets-the daughters of the men and women stationed there during the Vietnam War. But when a strong current deposits the girls on what their boatman calls the "forbidden island," things take a turn for the worse: A powerful storm comes to destroy their campsite, the smallest of the junior cadets is found dead, and their boatman never returns. What once seemed like a vacation in paradise has become a battle against the elements.
Peppered with short, frantic entries from Bonnie's journal, Lost Girls is a page-turning, heart-pounding adventure story about a group of teen girls fighting for their lives.
Title: Clockwork Prince Author: Cassandra Clare Narrators: Heather Lind & Ed Westwick Series: 2nd book in The Infernal Devices series Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry (hardcover)/Simon & Schuster Audio (audiobook) Publication Date: December 6, 2011 Source: purchased hardcover & publisher provided audiobook
In the magical underworld of Victorian London, Tessa Gray has at last found safety with the Shadowhunters. But that safety proves fleeting when rogue forces in the Clave plot to see her protector, Charlotte, replaced as head of the Institute. If Charlotte loses her position, Tessa will be out on the street and easy prey for the mysterious Magister, who wants to use Tessa's powers for his own dark ends.
With the help of the handsome, self-destructive Will and the fiercely devoted Jem, Tessa discovers that the Magister's war on the Shadowhunters is deeply personal. He blames them for a long-ago tragedy that shattered his life. To unravel the secrets of the past, the trio journeys from mist-shrouded Yorkshire to a manor house that holds untold horrors, from the slums of London to an enchanted ballroom where Tessa discovers that the truth of her parentage is more sinister than she had imagined. When they encounter a clockwork demon bearing a warning for Will, they realize that the Magister himself knows their every move and that one of their own has betrayed them.
Tessa finds her heart drawn more and more to Jem, though her longing for Will, despite his dark moods, continues to unsettle her. But something is changing in Will; the wall he has built around himself is crumbling. Could finding the Magister free Will from his secrets and give Tessa the answers about who she is and what she was born to do?
As their dangerous search for the Magister and the truth leads the friends into peril, Tessa learns that when love and lies are mixed, they can corrupt even the purest heart.
I actually read Clockwork Prince last December when it was released because Cassie Clare is on my auto-buy/immediately read list. That, and I absolutely loved Clockwork Angel when I read it the previous year and was eager to transport myself back to the Shadowhunter world. However, I dwelled on it for a bit and never wrote a proper review of the book. Then, recently, I was provided the opportunity to review the audiobook, and I can honestly say this story was just as good the second time around. And now it's time I write a more appropriate review of the book I currently deem "my favorite Cassie Clare novel thus far". So, here goes...
I think it's fair to say that the common thread throughout Clare's work is that "to love is to destroy" and vice versa. (I think Jace even says as much in one of The Mortal Instruments books.) In Clockwork Prince, we finally find out why Will is so tortured and why he treats his closest companions the way he does, even when it's clear that he cares about them. But let me tell you, Will in love is kind of a stark-raving lunatic, though I love his character even more now that I know what he's suffered. Of course, Jem is still caring and attentive, as always, and it would be impossible not to like him. I think it speaks volumes that the author was able to make me fall for both boys. I would be hard-pressed to pick a favorite character in this series, though Tessa's strength and honor and courage definitely keep her in the running.
If all love triangles were written like this one and that of Cynthia Hand's Unearthly series, I might just have to reconsider my previous feelings concerning the over-use of this particular plot device. A lot of time is spent focused on the various relationships in this novel, but if you ask me, it's time well spent. The relationships -- and their consequences -- only serve to propel the story further and provide a background for the time period and how social interactions were handled at the time.
However, the great characterization and relationship-centric plot did lend an air of predictability to the novel. But even though this was my second time experiencing this story, and I already knew what was coming, that ending still felt like a punch in the gut. When the journey is as captivating as this one, though, sometimes you can overlook the obvious and just enjoy the ride. And I'm sure I'll be enjoying this one again and again.
As far as the audio goes, I couldn't have asked for more perfect narrators for this story. Heather Lind is phenomenal as the voice of Tessa, and although Ed Westwick's accent had me swooning long before I started this audiobook, he was even more perfect as the voice of tormented Will than I could have imagined. And to hear Chuck Bass providing the voice of a flamboyant werewolf was just priceless. Also, hilarious. I was wary of how this novel would be split into a dual narrative considering the story is told in third person and from several viewpoints throughout the novel, but it was handled beautifully. The transitions between narrators were always clean and consistent. I may have enjoyed the audio more than actually reading the novel myself, but I'll never tell. I hope that Heather and Ed return for the third book; I just don't think it would be the same without them.
Awhile on the Pile/From the Review Pile is a meme hosted by Stepping Out of the Pageevery Thursday but was also inspired by Rachel at My Reading Pile/Fiktshun.The aim of this meme is to showcase books that you've received for review -- or any book that you own and really want to read/review -- but haven't yet got around to reading in order to give the book some extra publicity.
Here's the book I chose to give some extra love this week:
Title: Hades Author: Alexandra Adornetto Series: 2nd book in the Halo series Publisher: Feiwel & Friends Publication Date: August 30, 2011 Source: ARC from publisher
Heaven. Help. Her.
Bethany Church is an angel sent to Earth to keep dark forces at bay. Falling in love was never part of her mission, but the bond between Beth and her mortal boyfriend, Xavier Woods, is undeniably strong. But even Xavier’s love, and the care of her archangel siblings, Gabriel and Ivy, can’t keep Beth from being tricked into a motorcycle ride that ends up in Hell. There, the demon Jake Thorn bargains for Beth’s release back to Earth. But what he asks of her will destroy her, and quite possibly, her loved ones, as well.
The story that Alexandra Adornetto built in her New York Times-bestselling debut, Halo, comes alive in action-packed and unexpected ways, as angels battle demons, and the power of love is put to the test.
Wow...I hadn't realized I had been hanging onto this one for almost a year! I have to admit, I didn't really like the first book, and I really only bought it for the cover. I have some serious cover-lust when it comes to this series. Hades has angel wings on it? Lightning? A motorcycle? Yeah, this book looks to be thrilling. I owe it to my self and my shelf to give this one a try, right? Especially since the conclusion to the series lands on bookshelves in mere months. Right?
I'm planning on using this summer to clean up my TBR a bit, and I think I'll be able to squeeze this one in. What do you think? Have you read Hades yet? What say you, starry-eyed cohorts?
"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.
This week's WoW selection is...
Title: Scent of Magic
Author: Maria V. Snyder
Series: 2nd book in the Healer series
Publisher: MiraBooks/Harlequin Teen
Publication Date: scheduled for end of 2012
As the last Healer in the Fifteen Realms, Avery of Kazan is in a unique position: in the minds of her friends and foes alike, she no longer exists. Despite her need to prevent the megalomanical King Tohon from winning control of the Realms, Avery is also determined to find her sister and repair their estrangement. And she must do it alone, as Kerrick, her partner and sole confident, returns to Alga to summon his country into battle. Though she should be in hiding, Avery will do whatever she can to support Tohon’s opponents. Including infiltrating a holy army, evading magic sniffers, teaching forest skills to soldiers and figuring out how to stop Tohon’s most horrible creations yet; an army of the walking dead - human and animal alike and nearly impossible to defeat. War is coming and Avery is alone. Unless she figures out how to do the impossible ... again.
Why I'm waiting: First and foremost, I loved Touch of Power when I read it at the end of last year. It was very reminiscent of Snyder's Study series, which was my first foray into her writing, and I was hooked from the very first chapter. I love how Snyder's heroines are always tough as nails and eager to make things right. They see the injustices in each of their worlds and strive to overcome.
As to why I'm waiting on this book in particular? Well, there's Kerrick and his band of merry men. Oh, and Tohon, Avry's deliciously evil adversary, and his horde of zombies. And then there's that weird flower. I think it's safe to say things are about to get very interesting.
Here's the trailer for Touch of Power so you can see for yourself how awesome the storyline is:
Also, you can check out an excerpt from Touch of Powerhere.
So...what are YOU waiting on this week? Share it in the comments so I can add it to my TBR, too! :D
Title: Of Poseidon Author: Anna Banks Series: 1st book in the Of Poseidon series Publisher: Feiwel & Friends Publication Date: May 22, 2012 Source: ARC
Galen, a Syrena prince, searches land for a girl he's heard can communicate with fish. It’s while Emma is on vacation at the beach that she meets Galen. Although their connection is immediate and powerful, Galen's not fully convinced that Emma's the one he's been looking for. That is, until a deadly encounter with a shark proves that Emma and her Gift may be the only thing that can save his kingdom. He needs her help--no matter what the risk.
Of Poseidon was my first mermaid book, but the merfolk have found a friend in me.It was funny and clever and highly entertaining.I will definitely pick up the other mermaid offerings scheduled for release this year because of it.
By the second page of this novel, I already knew I was going to love the sarcastic, snarky voice of the main character Emma.However, each chapter alternated between Emma’s present-tense, first person point-of-view and a third person point-of-view with Galen’s perspective.Each POV has its perks, but you can deduce more of the story from Galen’s vantage point.Admittedly, this did lead to my own theories as to Emma’s origins, and it became a tad predictable from there.
I enjoyed how strong the female characters in this novel were.Emma may become a pile of goo whenever Galen is near her, but when her safety is compromised and he gets a little controlling, she lets him know in no uncertain terms that she doesn’t take orders from him.And Galen’s twin sister Rayna has all but taken a vow of celibacy to avoid a forced marriage to Toraf, her brother’s best friend and her would-be mate.Of course, that all changes later in the book, but it was nice to see the girls taking charge of themselves and their relationships in the beginning, at least.
I do wish more of the world of the Syrena had been explored, but I realize that the focus of this first novel is getting Emma to acknowledge her gift and everything that entails.The story developed rather quickly after that initial encounter between Emma and Galen, and even with the somewhat predictable nature of the story arc, there was nevera dull moment.
If you’re a fan of mermaids, snark, and/or romances with a twist, I’d recommend Of Poseidon.It was a light, fun read and it helped me break out of my reading slump.Of Poseidon was an engaging debut and I can’t wait to read what happens next!
Here are a couple of quotes I found humorous and snarky:
"It's almost as frustrating as Galen's game of hot and cold. Thing is, I'm not sure it's a game. From his expression, there's out-and-out war going on behind the scenes. He leans in, pulls away. Leans in, pulls away. It's like a battle between good and evil. I'm just not sure which one he thinks kissing me is." -- p. 183 of ARC
"So it's a good thing I'm being proactive about my own recovery by going on a date, even if it is a rebound -- and even if I'm rebounding from a relationship that didn't actually exist. My feelings were real. That's all that matters, isn't it? There's no stipulation in the broken-heart rule book that states the relationship had to actually be authentic, right? Sure, I'm gray-shading the line that separates stable and crazy, but the point is, there is a line. And I haven't completely crossed over to lunatic." -- p. 284 of ARC
Teaser Tuesday is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:
• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (Make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!
Title: Throne of Glass Author: Sarah J. Maas Series: 1st book in the Throne of Glass series Publisher: Bloomsbury Publication Date: August 7, 2012 Source: Netgalley
After serving out a year of hard labor in the salt mines of Endovier for her crimes, 18-year-old assassin Celaena Sardothien is dragged before the Crown Prince. Prince Dorian offers her her freedom on one condition: she must act as his champion in a competition to find a new royal assassin.
Her opponents are men—thieves and assassins and warriors from across the empire, each sponsored by a member of the kings council. If she beats her opponents in a series of eliminations, she’ll serve the kingdom for three years and then be granted her freedom.
Celaena finds her training sessions with the captain of the guard, Westfall, challenging and exhilirating. But she’s bored stiff by court life. Things get a little more interesting when the prince starts to show interest in her... but it’s the gruff Captain Westfall who seems to understand her best.
Then one of the other contestants turns up dead... quickly followed by another. Can Celaena figure out who the killer is before she becomes a victim? As the young assassin investigates, her search leads her to discover a greater destiny than she could possibly have imagined.
My teaser:
"She had the sickening feeling of falling. She gasped as her spine collided with marble, the rapier flying from her hand. Chaol pointed his blade at her heart. "I win," he breathed." -- p. 75 of galley
Okay, okay...I know I wasn't supposed to start this one yet, but I couldn't help myself. I have no willpower whatsoever. But, hey, I've officially broken out of my reading slump, so there's that. :D
What are you reading this week? Tease me in the comments!
I work with numbers by day, and I'm a mommy and avid reader by night. I'm a self-proclaimed Spreadsheet Queen, and I'll read anything you put in front of me. I seriously love all the books! And I adore audiobooks, too!
Thursday, May 31, 2012
My Favorite Reads Giveaway Hop
Yay! It's time to showcase some of our favorite reads and how better to spread the word than with a giveaway?!? Up for grabs, I have one of my favorite YA series:
** The boxed set up for grabs contains the first three books in The Mortal Instruments series by Cassie Clare. It is the paperback boxed set and it is pre-loved, though gently. I've since bought myself the boxed set in hardcover so that all of my copies for this series match. In case you weren't aware, I'm a little neurotic like that. :D **
I bought this series in 2010 when I was trying to discover something new to read after finishing The Hunger Games. However, it sat on my shelves for a few months before I finally gave in and gave it a read. And then I immediately pre-ordered City of Fallen Angels and read it in a day when it arrived. Okay, I lie. I pre-ordered it but I couldn't wait a few days to start it, so I downloaded a copy to my Nook for immediate reading pleasure. (Again, I'm a little neurotic, especially when it comes to my books.) Anyway, I have City of Lost Souls waiting for me at home, and I can't wait to get caught up on review books so I can get to it.
Before entering the Rafflecopter form below, just a reminder that this giveaway is for US residents only and the winner must respond within 48 hours to claim their prize or another winner will be selected. Also, again, please be aware that this boxed set has previously been read but is in good condition with minimal wear and tear. Thanks for entering and good luck!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Now that you've entered here, be sure to check out the other stops and see what everyone else's favorite reads are:
Awhile on the Pile #3: Vanish by Sophie Jordan
Here's the book I chose to give some extra love this week:
Author: Sophie Jordan
Series: 2nd book in the Firelight series
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publication Date: September 6, 2011
Source: ARC from publisher
Bitter rivalries.
Deadly choices.
To save the life of the boy she loves, Jacinda did the unthinkable: She betrayed the most closely-guarded secret of her kind. Now she must return to the protection of her pride knowing she might never see Will again—and worse, that because his mind has been shaded, Will’s memories of that fateful night and why she had to flee are gone.
Back home, Jacinda is greeted with hostility and must work to prove her loyalty for both her sake and her family’s. Among the few who will even talk to her are Cassian, the pride’s heir apparent who has always wanted her, and her sister, Tamra, who has been forever changed by a twist of fate. Jacinda knows that she should forget Will and move on—that if he managed to remember and keep his promise to find her, it would only endanger them both. Yet she clings to the hope that someday they will be together again. When the chance arrives to follow her heart, will she risk everything for love?
So...the reason this one has been sitting on the pile for so long is because I haven't read the first book, Firelight, yet. And I am just not capable of starting a series in the middle...it just doesn't feel right. But I've heard great things about this series. I've got Firelight on my shelf, as well, but since Hidden's release is only mere months away, I think I'll just wait until then to start the series and read them all back-to-back. That way, no agonizing wait after what I've heard is a pretty big cliffhanger in Vanish.
Have you read any of this series? What do you think? Is my plan to wait a cop-out? :P
Wednesday, May 30, 2012
Waiting on Wednesday: Days of Blood & Starlight by Laini Taylor
"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.
This week's WoW selection is...
Title: Days of Blood & Starlight
Daughter of Smoke and Bone was declared a "must read" by Entertainment Weekly, was named a Best Book of the Year by Amazon.com, and The New York Times called it "a breath-catching romantic fantasy."
Why I'm waiting: After reading DoSaB, I immediately began anticipating the sequel, but then they go and release the cover, and now November can't get here soon enough! DoSaB was one of my favorite reads last year, combining an awesome fantasy world with our own world and throwing a bit of romance in there for good measure. It was one of those books I practically read cover-to-cover, and I enjoyed it so much that I listened to the audio a short time after reading the book and loved the story even more the second time around. I can't wait to find out what Karou's next move will be, especially after the revelations at the end of DoSaB.
If you've read it, what did you think of DoSaB? And what are you waiting on this week? Share it in the comments!
Tuesday, May 29, 2012
Teaser Tuesday #8
• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (Make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!
This week's teaser comes from the following book:
Author: Huntley Fitzpatrick
Series: n/a
Publisher: Dial Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: June 14, 2012
Source: Netgalley
“One thing my mother never knew, and would disapprove of most of all, was that I watched the Garretts. All the time."
The Garretts are everything the Reeds are not. Loud, numerous, messy, affectionate. And every day from her balcony perch, seventeen-year-old Samantha Reed wishes she was one of them . . . until one summer evening, Jase Garrett climbs her terrace and changes everything. As the two fall fiercely in love, Jase's family makes Samantha one of their own. Then in an instant, the bottom drops out of her world and she is suddenly faced with an impossible decision. Which perfect family will save her? Or is it time she saved herself?
A dreamy summer read, full of characters who stay with you long after the story is over.
My teaser:
"Should I be worried?"
I look up at him, my thoughts scattered. "About what?"
"The fact that you're apparently the one girl on the planet who doesn't tell her best friend everything the moment it happens. I have sisters, Sam. I thought that was a rule--the best friend knows all. Yours didn't even know I existed." -- p. 173 of galley
Ouch! I doubt she's not telling people about their relationship because she's ashamed, though...
Leave your Tuesday Teaser in the comments so I can stop by!
Saturday, May 26, 2012
In My Mailbox #32
Okay, so remember last week how I was saying that I had to force myself not to request any more review copies because I already had enough on my plate? Yeah, that didn't last long. I have zero willpower when it comes to this sort of thing. o.O
For Review:
Temptation by Karen Ann Hopkins
Pushing the Limits by Katie McGarry
The Goddess Legacy by Aimee Carter
Something Like Normal by Trish Doller
Friday, May 25, 2012
Feature: Daughter of Smoke and Bone trailer
Anyway, when I asked April if I could feature her DoSaB trailer on the blog, her only request was that I make sure to give full credit to Jessica, the artist behind the drawing of Brimstone. Jessica's work can be found on deviantART. I don't think I could have imagined a more perfect image of Brimstone than her representation.
Also, if you want to read a little more background on how April created the trailer and such, check out her post about it. I can't imagine the work she puts into these trailers, but they are full of awesome. She also did one for Fifty Shades of Grey, which had me rolling on the floor. April is currently working on a trailer for the sequel.
And, without further ado, here is the beautimous SIMS trailer for Daughter of Smoke and Bone, created by the wonderfully-talented April:
You can find April on Twitter, on her blog - Sim~Sational~Books, and on YouTube. Please stop by and tell her how awesome her trailer is!
Also, when I was working on adding the links to this post, I noticed that the cover for the sequel to DoSaB was up on Goodreads. When did that happen?!? In case you, too, missed it, here's the cover for Days of Blood and Starlight:
What do you think? Awesome, right? Can't wait to get your hands on it, right? Yeah, me either!
Thursday, May 24, 2012
Splash into Summer Giveaway Hop
What better way to splash into summer than with a good book? (Just don't sit too close to the pool! :P) The winner at my stop will get their choice of one of the following ARCs:
Author: Jesse Andrews
Series: n/a
Publisher: ABRAMS
Publication Date: March 1, 2012
Until Greg’s mother forces him to rekindle his childhood friendship with Rachel.
Rachel has been diagnosed with leukemia—cue extreme adolescent awkwardness—but a parental mandate has been issued and must be obeyed. When Rachel stops treatment, Greg and Earl decide the thing to do is to make a film for her, which turns into the Worst Film Ever Made and becomes a turning point in each of their lives.
And all at once Greg must abandon invisibility and stand in the spotlight.
Fourteen-year-old Bonnie MacDonald couldn't be more excited for a camping trip on an island off the coast of Thailand with her fellow Amelia Earhart Cadets-the daughters of the men and women stationed there during the Vietnam War. But when a strong current deposits the girls on what their boatman calls the "forbidden island," things take a turn for the worse: A powerful storm comes to destroy their campsite, the smallest of the junior cadets is found dead, and their boatman never returns. What once seemed like a vacation in paradise has become a battle against the elements.
Peppered with short, frantic entries from Bonnie's journal, Lost Girls is a page-turning, heart-pounding adventure story about a group of teen girls fighting for their lives.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
Be sure to check out my other awesome giveaways! And now that you've entered here, be sure to check out the other stops on this giveaway hop:
Review: Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare
Author: Cassandra Clare
Narrators: Heather Lind & Ed Westwick
Series: 2nd book in The Infernal Devices series
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry (hardcover)/Simon & Schuster Audio (audiobook)
Publication Date: December 6, 2011
Source: purchased hardcover & publisher provided audiobook
With the help of the handsome, self-destructive Will and the fiercely devoted Jem, Tessa discovers that the Magister's war on the Shadowhunters is deeply personal. He blames them for a long-ago tragedy that shattered his life. To unravel the secrets of the past, the trio journeys from mist-shrouded Yorkshire to a manor house that holds untold horrors, from the slums of London to an enchanted ballroom where Tessa discovers that the truth of her parentage is more sinister than she had imagined. When they encounter a clockwork demon bearing a warning for Will, they realize that the Magister himself knows their every move and that one of their own has betrayed them.
Tessa finds her heart drawn more and more to Jem, though her longing for Will, despite his dark moods, continues to unsettle her. But something is changing in Will; the wall he has built around himself is crumbling. Could finding the Magister free Will from his secrets and give Tessa the answers about who she is and what she was born to do?
As their dangerous search for the Magister and the truth leads the friends into peril, Tessa learns that when love and lies are mixed, they can corrupt even the purest heart.
I actually read Clockwork Prince last December when it was released because Cassie Clare is on my auto-buy/immediately read list. That, and I absolutely loved Clockwork Angel when I read it the previous year and was eager to transport myself back to the Shadowhunter world. However, I dwelled on it for a bit and never wrote a proper review of the book. Then, recently, I was provided the opportunity to review the audiobook, and I can honestly say this story was just as good the second time around. And now it's time I write a more appropriate review of the book I currently deem "my favorite Cassie Clare novel thus far". So, here goes...
I think it's fair to say that the common thread throughout Clare's work is that "to love is to destroy" and vice versa. (I think Jace even says as much in one of The Mortal Instruments books.) In Clockwork Prince, we finally find out why Will is so tortured and why he treats his closest companions the way he does, even when it's clear that he cares about them. But let me tell you, Will in love is kind of a stark-raving lunatic, though I love his character even more now that I know what he's suffered. Of course, Jem is still caring and attentive, as always, and it would be impossible not to like him. I think it speaks volumes that the author was able to make me fall for both boys. I would be hard-pressed to pick a favorite character in this series, though Tessa's strength and honor and courage definitely keep her in the running.
If all love triangles were written like this one and that of Cynthia Hand's Unearthly series, I might just have to reconsider my previous feelings concerning the over-use of this particular plot device. A lot of time is spent focused on the various relationships in this novel, but if you ask me, it's time well spent. The relationships -- and their consequences -- only serve to propel the story further and provide a background for the time period and how social interactions were handled at the time.
However, the great characterization and relationship-centric plot did lend an air of predictability to the novel. But even though this was my second time experiencing this story, and I already knew what was coming, that ending still felt like a punch in the gut. When the journey is as captivating as this one, though, sometimes you can overlook the obvious and just enjoy the ride. And I'm sure I'll be enjoying this one again and again.
As far as the audio goes, I couldn't have asked for more perfect narrators for this story. Heather Lind is phenomenal as the voice of Tessa, and although Ed Westwick's accent had me swooning long before I started this audiobook, he was even more perfect as the voice of tormented Will than I could have imagined. And to hear Chuck Bass providing the voice of a flamboyant werewolf was just priceless. Also, hilarious. I was wary of how this novel would be split into a dual narrative considering the story is told in third person and from several viewpoints throughout the novel, but it was handled beautifully. The transitions between narrators were always clean and consistent. I may have enjoyed the audio more than actually reading the novel myself, but I'll never tell. I hope that Heather and Ed return for the third book; I just don't think it would be the same without them.
Rating:
Awhile on the Pile #2: Hades by Alexandra Adornetto
Here's the book I chose to give some extra love this week:
Author: Alexandra Adornetto
Series: 2nd book in the Halo series
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Publication Date: August 30, 2011
Source: ARC from publisher
Bethany Church is an angel sent to Earth to keep dark forces at bay. Falling in love was never part of her mission, but the bond between Beth and her mortal boyfriend, Xavier Woods, is undeniably strong. But even Xavier’s love, and the care of her archangel siblings, Gabriel and Ivy, can’t keep Beth from being tricked into a motorcycle ride that ends up in Hell. There, the demon Jake Thorn bargains for Beth’s release back to Earth. But what he asks of her will destroy her, and quite possibly, her loved ones, as well.
The story that Alexandra Adornetto built in her New York Times-bestselling debut, Halo, comes alive in action-packed and unexpected ways, as angels battle demons, and the power of love is put to the test.
Wow...I hadn't realized I had been hanging onto this one for almost a year! I have to admit, I didn't really like the first book, and I really only bought it for the cover. I have some serious cover-lust when it comes to this series. Hades has angel wings on it? Lightning? A motorcycle? Yeah, this book looks to be thrilling. I owe it to my self and my shelf to give this one a try, right? Especially since the conclusion to the series lands on bookshelves in mere months. Right?
I'm planning on using this summer to clean up my TBR a bit, and I think I'll be able to squeeze this one in. What do you think? Have you read Hades yet? What say you, starry-eyed cohorts?
Wednesday, May 23, 2012
Waiting on Wednesday: Scent of Magic by Maria V. Snyder
"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.
This week's WoW selection is...
Title: Scent of Magic
Though she should be in hiding, Avery will do whatever she can to support Tohon’s opponents. Including infiltrating a holy army, evading magic sniffers, teaching forest skills to soldiers and figuring out how to stop Tohon’s most horrible creations yet; an army of the walking dead - human and animal alike and nearly impossible to defeat.
War is coming and Avery is alone. Unless she figures out how to do the impossible ... again.
Why I'm waiting: First and foremost, I loved Touch of Power when I read it at the end of last year. It was very reminiscent of Snyder's Study series, which was my first foray into her writing, and I was hooked from the very first chapter. I love how Snyder's heroines are always tough as nails and eager to make things right. They see the injustices in each of their worlds and strive to overcome.
As to why I'm waiting on this book in particular? Well, there's Kerrick and his band of merry men. Oh, and Tohon, Avry's deliciously evil adversary, and his horde of zombies. And then there's that weird flower. I think it's safe to say things are about to get very interesting.
Here's the trailer for Touch of Power so you can see for yourself how awesome the storyline is:
Also, you can check out an excerpt from Touch of Power here.
So...what are YOU waiting on this week? Share it in the comments so I can add it to my TBR, too! :D
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
Review: Of Poseidon by Anna Banks
Author: Anna Banks
Series: 1st book in the Of Poseidon series
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Publication Date: May 22, 2012
Source: ARC
Of Poseidon was my first mermaid book, but the merfolk have found a friend in me. It was funny and clever and highly entertaining. I will definitely pick up the other mermaid offerings scheduled for release this year because of it.
By the second page of this novel, I already knew I was going to love the sarcastic, snarky voice of the main character Emma. However, each chapter alternated between Emma’s present-tense, first person point-of-view and a third person point-of-view with Galen’s perspective. Each POV has its perks, but you can deduce more of the story from Galen’s vantage point. Admittedly, this did lead to my own theories as to Emma’s origins, and it became a tad predictable from there.
I enjoyed how strong the female characters in this novel were. Emma may become a pile of goo whenever Galen is near her, but when her safety is compromised and he gets a little controlling, she lets him know in no uncertain terms that she doesn’t take orders from him. And Galen’s twin sister Rayna has all but taken a vow of celibacy to avoid a forced marriage to Toraf, her brother’s best friend and her would-be mate. Of course, that all changes later in the book, but it was nice to see the girls taking charge of themselves and their relationships in the beginning, at least.
I do wish more of the world of the Syrena had been explored, but I realize that the focus of this first novel is getting Emma to acknowledge her gift and everything that entails. The story developed rather quickly after that initial encounter between Emma and Galen, and even with the somewhat predictable nature of the story arc, there was never a dull moment.
If you’re a fan of mermaids, snark, and/or romances with a twist, I’d recommend Of Poseidon. It was a light, fun read and it helped me break out of my reading slump. Of Poseidon was an engaging debut and I can’t wait to read what happens next!
Here are a couple of quotes I found humorous and snarky:
"It's almost as frustrating as Galen's game of hot and cold. Thing is, I'm not sure it's a game. From his expression, there's out-and-out war going on behind the scenes. He leans in, pulls away. Leans in, pulls away. It's like a battle between good and evil. I'm just not sure which one he thinks kissing me is." -- p. 183 of ARC
"So it's a good thing I'm being proactive about my own recovery by going on a date, even if it is a rebound -- and even if I'm rebounding from a relationship that didn't actually exist. My feelings were real. That's all that matters, isn't it? There's no stipulation in the broken-heart rule book that states the relationship had to actually be authentic, right? Sure, I'm gray-shading the line that separates stable and crazy, but the point is, there is a line. And I haven't completely crossed over to lunatic." -- p. 284 of ARC
Rating:
Book-A-Likes: mermaid books releasing this year - Lies Beneath by Anne Greenwood Brown, The Vicious Deep by Zoraida Córdova, Monstrous Beauty by Elizabeth Fama
Teaser Tuesday #7
• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
• BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (Make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
• Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!
This week's teaser comes from the following book:
Author: Sarah J. Maas
Series: 1st book in the Throne of Glass series
Publisher: Bloomsbury
Publication Date: August 7, 2012
Source: Netgalley
Her opponents are men—thieves and assassins and warriors from across the empire, each sponsored by a member of the kings council. If she beats her opponents in a series of eliminations, she’ll serve the kingdom for three years and then be granted her freedom.
Celaena finds her training sessions with the captain of the guard, Westfall, challenging and exhilirating. But she’s bored stiff by court life. Things get a little more interesting when the prince starts to show interest in her... but it’s the gruff Captain Westfall who seems to understand her best.
Then one of the other contestants turns up dead... quickly followed by another. Can Celaena figure out who the killer is before she becomes a victim? As the young assassin investigates, her search leads her to discover a greater destiny than she could possibly have imagined.
My teaser:
"She had the sickening feeling of falling. She gasped as her spine collided with marble, the rapier flying from her hand. Chaol pointed his blade at her heart. "I win," he breathed." -- p. 75 of galley
Okay, okay...I know I wasn't supposed to start this one yet, but I couldn't help myself. I have no willpower whatsoever. But, hey, I've officially broken out of my reading slump, so there's that. :D
What are you reading this week? Tease me in the comments!
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starryeyedjen
- I work with numbers by day, and I'm a mommy and avid reader by night. I'm a self-proclaimed Spreadsheet Queen, and I'll read anything you put in front of me. I seriously love all the books! And I adore audiobooks, too!
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