Current Giveaways:

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Tuesday, January 31, 2012

Top Ten Tuesday: Book Club Picks


Top Ten Books I Think Would Make Great Book Club Picks
In no particular order.

1. Gone by Michael Grant
I didn't even finish this book, but I think it appeals to many different demographics and provides many things to discuss amongst a group.

2. Virtuosity by Jessica Martinez
This book deals with a lot of issues in a very stunning way. Plus, it's an amazing book that everyone should read.

3. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
Do I even need to elaborate?

4. Don't Let Me Go by J.H. Trumble
This book is so fabulous and it goes where few books dare to go. It'll bring most people out of their comfort zones and most likely alter the way they think about certain issues.

5. Cinder by Marissa Meyer
This book is original and entertaining an appeals to guys and girls alike. It's also a very unique retelling which is good for discussion.

6. Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi
This novel is written in a unique form. It is fast-paced and oozing with romance and action.

7. Delirium by Lauren Oliver
This is written so beautifully. Lauren Oliver is so incredibly talented at painting pictures and pulling emotions and everyone deserves to read this gorgeous book.

8. Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl
This book is oozing with a rich gothic setting, a 3D world and history, entertaining characters, and unique paranormal aspects. And it's told from a guys perspective!

9. If I Stay by Gayle Foreman
This book is touching and moving and all together stunning. It'll make you think and hurt and appreciate what you have.

10. Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare
Again, must I elaborate? Swoon-worthy guys, wonderful prose, heart-racing action. It's great!


Those are my selections. What are yours? Leave me some links!

Sunday, January 29, 2012

In My Mailbox (16)


I know, I know. I have been such an AWFUL blogger latetely. Bt if it makes you feel any better, I haven't really done much reading or writing lately either. Just lots of crap going down in my life, and I've got bigger priorities than blogging, as much as I sometimes wish otherwise. So, without further ado, I present to you the fabulous books I have received the past 2 weeks. Clicking on the title will take you to the Goodreads page.


Holy balls, I am beyond siked for this. I have been wanting to read this series for forever and ever and ever. I feel like everyone and their friggin dog has read this series and I am so happy to have the first two and a half bound into one gorgeous volume!

OMGOMGOMGOMGOMGOMGGGGG. This book is amazeballs. I'm so in love with it. I borrowed the ARC from Brent Taylor at Naughty Book Kitties, and I fell so hard for it that I bought the final copy, and OMG I CANNOT STOP STROKING IT AND STARING AT IT AND LOVING IT. You can read my review for this fabulous work of art here.




Once again, everyone has read this book. And adored it. And I haven't. I borrowed this from my English teacher, which is super awesomesauce because I have never had an English teacher who loves YA. She loaned this to me because it is her favorite book. I've already started it and it's really good.









YAYAYAYAYAYAY! This book looks absolutely fabulous and I have wanted to read it since the very second I heard about it.


Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Book Review: The Alchemy of Forever by Avery Williams


The Alchemy of Forever by Avery Williams

Series: Incarnation #1
Genre: YA Paranormal
Publication Date: January 3, 2012
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Format: ebook
Pages: 256
Source: PulseIt website

After spending six hundred years on Earth, Seraphina Ames has seen it all. Eternal life provides her with the world's riches but at a very high price: innocent lives. Centuries ago, her boyfriend, Cyrus, discovered a method of alchemy that allows them to take the bodies of other humans from jumping from one vessel to the next, ending the human's life in the process. No longer able to bear the guilt of what she's done, Sera escapes from Cyrus and vows to never kill again.

Then sixteen-year old Kailey Morgan gets into a horrific car accident right in front of her, and Sera accidentally takes over her body while trying to save her. For the first time, Sera finds herself enjoying the life of the person she's inhabiting--and falling in love with the boy who lives next door. But Cyrus will stop at nothing until she's his again, and every moment she stays, she's putting herself and the people she's grown to care about in danger. Will Sera have to give up the one thing that's eluded her for centuries: true love? (goodreads.com)


I'd heard amazing things about this book before starting it, and I've really been into incarnation and reincarnation lately. So as you can imagine I was really excited to start this book, though I still didn't really know what it was about. I can't say that I am head over heels for it.

It starts with a prologue. Something you may or may not know about me is that I very rarely like a prologue. And the one in this novel especially didn't work for me. It felt very rushed and unbelievable. I was extremely hesitant to continue on after that, but of course I did. I found that parts of the book had the same rushed feeling, but it wasn't too bad to the point where I wanted to give up again.

The plot was interesting, though I always struggle with the "pretending to be a person you're not" storyline. I mean, how does the family and friends not realize that  a person has COMPLETELY changed. Sera enters the body of a teenage girl -- something she hasn't been for centuries. This teenage girl was an artist and she had friends and loved ones. She had a complete history that Sera didn't know, and yet she managed to pass as this girl without raising many questions. Uh hello? Am I the only one who just doesn't believe that? But I did really like how Cyrus was after her. There was a definite tension throughout the novel that couldn't be ignored.

Sera was an okay character. She got kind of annoying at times and I really just wanted to smack her. In the beginning she kept going on about how she needs to die. I understand why she believed that and why she kept thinking it, but I don't want to hear about it over and over. It sounded so....emo. And then she was too weak to stick to a decision. She kept saying that she was going to run away, because it was the right thing to do. Then she wouldn't run away, and she would rationalize that STAYING was the right thing to do.

Th romance was all right. It wasn't the heart-thumping kind, but it was still really sweet to read and I was rooting for Sera and her love the entire time. The writing was gorgeous and I love the way that the author incorporated alchemy into the story, though I would like to see a little more of that in the next book. The ending was fabulous, though! It made me eager for the next book and broke my heart.

All in all, this was a book that many people will enjoy, though it didn't particularly rock my socks. I you're looking for a super quick read packed with great tension and an awesome premise, I'd say you should pick up The Alchemy of Forever.

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Book Review: The International Kissing Club by Ivy Adams


The International Kissing Club by Ivy Adams

Series: Standalone
Genre: YA contemporary
Publication Date: January 3, 2012
Publisher: Walker & Compnay
Format: eARC
Pages: 397
Source: NetGalley

Piper, Cassidy, Mei, and Izzy have been best friends their whole lives. And they've always agreed on one goal: to get out of tiny Paris, Texas, and see the world. The school's foreign exchange program seems like the perfect escape: Piper will go to the original Paris; Mei will go to China; Cassidy will go to Australia; and Izzy, unable to afford the program, will stay at home. To add spice to their semester away, and to stay connected to their best friends, the girls start The International Kissing Club, a Facebook page where they can anonymously update one another and brag about all the amazing guys they're meeting. After all, these girls are traveling abroad: amazing guys abound at every turn! But sometimes fun, flirty vacation flings turn into more serious romances, and sometimes you don't return from abroad the same person you were. Will the girls' relationships-and their friendships-be able to survive? (Goodreads.com)


Upon hearing the premise for The International Kissing Club, I was extremely intrigued. A book focused on kissing? Yes, please! As far as contemps go, I thought it had a pretty unique little twist to it and I was really happy to get the opportunity to read it. However, the novel didn't contain that certain spark that I wanted it to.

The story begins with a prologue from Piper's perspective. I'm not a fan of prologues, so I probably would have liked it a lot more if it was just chapter one, but the prologue did help me easily sympathize with Piper. I mean, being humiliated in front of the entire town by having to kiss a pig? Not a particularly ideal situation. The prologue also helped readers grasp just how far Germaine, Evil Popular Girl, is willing to take her and Piper's feud. Maybe it's because of the prologue that I felt for Piper the most, and that out of all four girls, I was rooting the hardest for her.

As for the other girls...I liked them, but I didn't really connect with them to a full extent. Each one of them was strong, independent, and good for some laughs. But like I said above, Piper was my favorite of the girls. Out of the boys, Lucas, Cassidy's love interest, was definitely my favorite, because he was the only one where I saw how great he was, rather than being told. Well, that's not true. It was obvious how great a guy Guiran, Mei's love interest, was, but he fell a little flat to me. Piper and Izzy both went on and on about how sweet and hott their guys were, but I couldn't really see it or feel it.

The way the perspective alternated between Piper, Cassidy, Izzy, and Mei wasn't particularly annoying or bothersome, because it was all very necessary, but it definitely made it difficult for me to fall for all of the characters and connect to them. In the beginning I also kept getting their background stories confused and I'd have problems following along with who is saying and doing what, but once I learned about the girls it was a lot easier.

I didn't like the way this novel ended. I know that some authors like to keep the ending open in order for the readers to make inferences about what happens, and that's fine. I didn't want an epilogue twenty years in the future, but I felt the ending of The International Kissing Club was unsatisfying. None of the major conflicts were really resolved. And I also didn't expect everybody to live la-dee-da-da happily ever after perfect lives, but it's like by the end, the girls were in the same position they started - only worse because they're friendship is being tested and some of their hearts have been broken.

Aside from those things, though, I did enjoy the novel. It was really cute and great for a good laugh! The writing was clear and sweet and snarky and I absolutely adored reading the posts on the IKC facebook page between chapters! The dialogue between the girls is hilarious because they don't take any crap from each other.

My favorite part of this story, though, was the power of friendship. Every girl craves the kind of friendship that these girls have, and some have even found it themselves. It's the kind of thing that makes my heart happy, as lame as that sounds.

Sunday, January 15, 2012

In My Mailbox (15) - Stolen Books Edition


STOLEN BOOKS EDITION

Let me begin by telling you a little story. Me and my dad live in a mother-in-law suite which is like a mini apartment below a house. That means we share a mailbox with the people who own the house. Well, I just started babysitting after school so instead of checking the mail before them right after I get off of the bus, I've been riding the bus to my cousins' house and by the time I get home, the mail is already checked by them. Well, I knew there were quite a few books I was supposed to get this week and I kept getting frustrated when they WOULDN'T GET HERE. I was also supposed to get a package from my siblings as a Christmas present. And that hadn't come either. Well, I figured out the people that own the house have been taking my mail and returning it to the sender due to the "wrong address." We're moving tomorrow, but I am SO MAD. Sosososo mad. Not only for me, but for the people who have had to pay to send books to me only to have them sent back. I'd feel horrible asking them to send them to my new address because it is EXPENSIVE to send books. And I had so many that I was looking forward to! Anyway, I obviously don't have any physical books this week, but the NetGalley books I got I am superlyduperly excited for :) Clicking the titles will take you to the book's Goodreads page.


OMGOMGOMG I AM SO EXCITED FOR THIS. Everything about this book looks and sounds amazing! I died when I saw it on NetGalley.

This sounds like a really good contemp :)

This book sounds sooooo good, and I loveloveloved Robin's Frozen. Her writing is just fabulous and I am really excited to read this. I actually got denied the first time I requested it, but then, having absolutely no shame, I requested again and got approved.


Friday, January 13, 2012

Book Review: Incarnate by Jodi Meadows


Incarnate by Jodi Meadows

Series: Newsoul #1
Genre: YA Fantasy Sci-Fi
Publication Date: January 31, 2012
Publisher: HarperCollins
Format: ARC
Pages: 384
Source: Gifted by another blogger

NEWSOUL
Ana is new. For thousands of years in Range, a million souls have been reincarnated over and over, keeping their memories and experiences from previous lifetimes. When Ana was born, another soul vanished, and no one knows why.

NOSOUL
Even Ana’s own mother thinks she’s a nosoul, an omen of worse things to come, and has kept her away from society. To escape her seclusion and learn whether she’ll be reincarnated, Ana travels to the city of Heart, but its citizens are suspicious and afraid of what her presence means. When dragons and sylph attack the city, is Ana to blame?

HEART
Sam believes Ana’s new soul is good and worthwhile. When he stands up for her, their relationship blooms. But can he love someone who may live only once, and will Ana’s enemies—human and creature alike—let them be together? Ana needs to uncover the mistake that gave her someone else’s life, but will her quest threaten the peace of Heart and destroy the promise of reincarnation for all?

Jodi Meadows expertly weaves soul-deep romance, fantasy, and danger into an extraordinary tale of new life.  (goodreads.com)


Take a second to gaze admiringly at that cover. I've been in love with that cover since the very first time I saw it. A stunning cover to accompany a stunning novel!

In the beginning, I was slightly confused. There was a lot of worldbuilding that I didn't understand. But obviously since it was only, like, the first 10 pages I knew things would be explained. And then BAM! The awesomesauce kicked in. We begin to see what Ana is really like: tough, intelligent, a tad prickly, bitter. Right off the bat it is easy to sympathize with her - if not exactly love her - because of her horrible circumstances. I very easily related to Ana, and I think others will, too. She has the unwavering need to discover who she really is and where she came from. She needs to get away from her horrible mother who has abused her emotionally and physically for years. She wants to find someone that loves her and cares for her, even though she believes that it is impossible. I felt for this girl sooo much. Her evil mother has damaged her so harcore, calling her a nosoul and claiming that Ana is incapable of loving anything or anyone. Some people may get annoyed because she's really defensive, but can you blame her? She's been nothing but beat down her entire life! I really ended up liking Ana and rooting for her.

Then Sam came along. And OMG SAM. For me, it kind of felt like instalove, but then I realized it wasn't. Sam only saves Ana from a big, scary sylph because he thinks it is someone he knows. (Though, I'm pretty sure he would have done it if it was his mortal enemy, because that's just the kind of guy he is.) He then notices her combination of fear and determination and decides to help her. He's a seriously great guy, not like the normal brooding bad boy, though he does have some weird moments. But really, he's sweet and smart and a MUSICIAN. Drool-worthy, certainly.

The plot and premise and world created in Incarnate are all so original that I seriously just want to, like, jump for joy. Add to that the sylph and the dragons and ZOMG HOW AMAZING. I didn't really know what a sylph was before starting this book because I had never read a novel where they played such a prominent role, but quite frankly, they are CREEPY CREATURES. They're just floating shadow creatures that have a searing touch and are nearly unstoppable. And Ana has been attacked by them multiple times. You go girl!

And I can't overlook the most fabulous thing of all: the writing. Jodi Meadows wowed me. She sucked me into her world and allowed me to see through Ana's eyes. I could feel my heart racing along with Ana's. I understood her decisions, even if I didn't always agree. AND THE ENDING. :OOOO Let's just say we discover some really important things. But what I love most is that there is no stupid cliffhanger that simultaneously annoys and intrigues you. Meadows leaves us with a satisfactory ending that will allow us to breathe easily while waiting for the next installment.

All in all, you need to read this book. Whether you're a fan of fantasy, dystopia, sci-fi, or any other genre in the world. You need to read this. Jodi Meadows is sweeping into debut authorhood with a resounding BANG.

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Blog Tour: Wandering Stars by Marlon Pierre-Antoine (Guest post + Giveaway)


Today, I have Marlon Pierre-Antoine on the blog to promote her book, Wandering Stars. Take it away, Marlon!


5 Things I'd Like to do Before I Die

The reader should be cautioned that this list loses its credibility with breathtaking speed.
1. Learn multiple languages. I have a culural connection to Haitian Creole, and I really like Spanish, French and even – gasp – Esperanto.

2. Visit Mexico, Cuba and South Africa. And Russia. And France. Spain, too, and Brazil would be nice – okay, I'm going to change this one to visit every country.

3. Ensure that the Wandering Stars series becomes part of the mandatory literature curriculum in all high schools. Students should write essays on which character they adore the most and the profound symbolism behind the color I chose for Indigo's fur. (Hint: There isn't any symbolism there whatsoever.)

4. Live forever.
5. Finish this list.


Wow, Marlon. You're aspirations are certainly...aspirational! :D But thanks so much for stopping by! Now, awesome readers, how would you like to know something about this book!?


Alice Valdez is a normal seventeen year old girl living a mundane post high school life that consists of work, sleep, hanging out, and more work - but it all changes when a chance encounter on the beach one night leads to a series of haunting dreams that bring her face to face with the most ancient evil the Universe has ever known.


What do you do when the man you care for is none other than the Devil himself? Wandering Stars follows one girl's journey into the arms of darkness and into Hell itself - all in the name of love. (Goodreads.com)






And for one lucky winner I have an ecopy of Wandering Stars up for grabs!! All you have to do is leave a comment on this post and leave a way to contact you (email address, twitter, etc...). Giveaway ends 01/18/12.

Monday, January 9, 2012

It's Monday! What are you reading? (5)

This weekly meme is hosted by Book Journey.

FINISHED:

~ Cinder by Marissa Meyer (physical - see my review for it!)
~ Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare (physical - review coming soon!)
~ The International Kissing Club by Ivy Adams (ebook - review coming soon!)
~ The Alchemy of Forever by Avery Williams (ebook)
My first books of 2012!! How awesome. I didn't do too bad this week. I have been seriously slacking on my reading/reviewing lately, so I'm forcing myself to kick it in gear. My goal is to read at least 100 books this year. 

TO READ THIS WEEK:

~ The Gathering Storm by Robin Bridges (ebook)
~ The Academy by T.P. Boje (physical)
~ Revealing Eden by Victoria Foyt (ebook)
I'm going to be babysitting everyday after school now, but I know I can do it! :D It's not really all that much, so I have a feeling I might exceed that, but I don't know.

WHAT ARE YOU READING THIS WEEK?

Sunday, January 8, 2012

In My Mailbox (14)


I kind of had a slow week. I was expecting quite a few things in the mail, but for some reason they didn't come. Hopefully they will all be here on Monday! :) All titles link to Goodreads.

I won all of these books from 365 Days of Reading

I've heard some good things about this one. It looks like a pretty quick read, too.

I haven;t really heard or seen anything about this book, but it sounds really interesting.

I've been wanting to read this one sice before it was released. I'm excited! :D

I don't think I've ever read a book about mermaids, and this is a book I've had my eye on for a while. I was really excited to be able to get it.



This book releases January 17, 2012. I haven't heard much about this yet, but the cover is really eye-catching!

This book looks really funny and sounds like it will be a very entertaining read! It releases January 31, 2012.

I'm pretty sure this is a retelling of Robin Hood, and though I am not actually all that familiar with Robin Hood, I still think it looks really good. I love how fierce and simple the cover is. This book releases on Febuary 14, 2012.



I've never even heard of this, but I liked the cover and decided to take a look at it and it sounds really interesting. And I get carried away with free ebooks, even if I'll probably never read them.

I've seen really good things about this, so I'm excited to give it a try.

I feel like everyone under the ickin sun has read this except me. I've heard really good things about this, and I read one og Beth's other books, so I know the writing will be fantastic.

I've also heard good things about this one and the newest installmentin the series just had a gorgeous cover reveal.

Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Book Review: Cinder by Marissa Meyer

Cinder by Marissa Meyer

Series: Lunar Chronicles #1
Genre: YA Sci-Fi
Publication Date: January 3, 2012
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Format: ARC
Pages: 387
Source: Won from publisher

Humans and androids crowd the raucous streets of New Beijing. A deadly plague ravages the population. From space, a ruthless lunar people watch, waiting to make their move. No one knows that Earth’s fate hinges on one girl. . . .

Cinder, a gifted mechanic, is a cyborg. She’s a second-class citizen with a mysterious past, reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister’s illness. But when her life becomes intertwined with the handsome Prince Kai’s, she suddenly finds herself at the center of an intergalactic struggle, and a forbidden attraction. Caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal, she must uncover secrets about her past in order to protect her world’s future.

In this thrilling debut young adult novel, the first of a quartet, Marissa Meyer introduces readers to an unforgettable heroine and a masterfully crafted new world that’s enthralling. (goodreads.com)


I had no idea what to expect from Cinder. I am not too familiar with the original Cinderella tale, and I know pretty much nothing about cyborgs, but despite my extremely limited knowledge, Cinder has the most kickass premise I've read about in a long time. Add to that the wonderful things I've heard about it from my favorite bloggers and I was extremely siked to start reading it. I wasn't disappointed at all! This novel introduces a unique world, amazingly sassy characters, and an exciting, original plot. I can tell that this book is the beginning of a fabulous series.

Let me tell you about Cinder. Having only the Disney Cinderella movie to refer to, I expected the main character to be a lot different. I thought she would be weaker, whinier, more boring. Imagine my surprise when Cinder turns out to be this tough, sarcastic girl who doesn't let anything get her down for too long. Seeing as she was a cyborg, which are not looked upon kindly in her society, I didn't think I'd be able to really connect with her all that well. But guess what...I did! She's not an unfeeling hunk of metal and wires - she's only about 38% cyborg. She has real emotions and fears and desires like any other human being. She gets butterflies from the charming prince, she is desperate to save her sister from the plague that has begun to take over her unit, she fears that everyone will find out her true identity and completely shun her, she wants to escape from her step-mother's constant demands and wicked accusations. Cinder is determined and even though her family (besides Peony) is absolutely awful, she lets it all roll off her shoulders. It's helpful that she cannot cry and her face cannot flush when she gets angry. Seriously, I loved Cinder. She's a unique and marvelous addition to the YA heroine pool.


Then there's Kai. The prince. I wasn't particularly swooning over him, though I was rooting for a relationship between him and Cinder. He was sweet, very outspoken, pretty down to earth. He knows he has to do what is best for Commonwealth, even if what is best is not always obvious. He's young and has to make some really tough decisions. I really admired his character and sympathized. I hope to see a lot more of him in future installments. Cinder's step-mother, Adri, and sister, Pearl, are horrible. They are rude and just horrible. I hope for a gruesome death for both of them. Iko and Peony were both amazing characters and I adored them. I hope for good things for them, but the worst stuff always happens to the best characters.

The idea of the Lunars is really cool and provides a very unique twist, but I would have loved to learn more about them. Like when they came along, how were they discovered, etc. I have a feeling more of that will be revealed in the next books, considering some of the events that occurred in Cinder. The same thing goes for the society and the androids. We know that the present-day society crumbled due to the Fourth World War, but other than that we don't know much. Like when did androids and cyborgs become a common thing in the society? How were certain government leaders selected? If everyone hates cyborgs so much - why make them? While the world was super neat, I would like to see it develop a lot more. However, I did love how unconfusing the political aspects were presented. Nothing like confusing politics to hinder my enjoyment of a book.

The plot was amazing! It's not particularly action-packed or filled with romance, but every page is riddled with excitement and tension. There's a deadly plague, inevitable war, cyborgs, and creepy moon people. What isn't perfect about those things? The ending indicates there will many more tough and epic adventures for Cinder. She has more information about herself than she ever planned - or probably wanted - to have, and she's got a new "strength" that I'm certain will be used in interesting ways. I am practically peeing myself for the sequel already.
I know there is an awesome trailer for this book somewhere, but I can't seem to find it :'(

Monday, January 2, 2012

Book Review: Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi


Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi

Series: Under the Never Sky #1
Genre: YA Dystopian
Publication Date: January 3, 2012
Publisher: HarperCollins
Format: eARC
Pages: 268
Source: NetGalley

Aria is a teenager in the enclosed city of Reverie. Like all Dwellers, she spends her time with friends in virtual environments, called Realms, accessed through an eyepiece called a Smarteye. Aria enjoys the Realms and the easy life in Reverie. When she is forced out of the pod for a crime she did not commit, she believes her death is imminent. The outside world is known as The Death Shop, with danger in every direction.

As an Outsider, Perry has always known hunger, vicious predators, and violent energy storms from the swirling electrified atmosphere called the Aether. A bit of an outcast even among his hunting tribe, Perry withstands these daily tests with his exceptional abilities, as he is gifted with powerful senses that enable him to scent danger, food and even human emotions.

They come together reluctantly, for Aria must depend on Perry, whom she considers a barbarian, to help her get back to Reverie, while Perry needs Aria to help unravel the mystery of his beloved nephew’s abduction by the Dwellers. Together they embark on a journey challenged as much by their prejudices as by encounters with cannibals and wolves. But to their surprise, Aria and Perry forge an unlikely love - one that will forever change the fate of all who live UNDER THE NEVER SKY

The first book in a captivating trilogy, Veronica Rossi’s enthralling debut sweeps you into an unforgettable adventure.


I'm surprised at how much I enjoyed this book. At first, I wasn't feeling it. Immediately, there were a lot of terms introduced that had to do with the world and I had no idea what any of them meant. The first
few chapters were a little ehhh for me. I know that a lot of people were immediately swept away by the beginning, but I had a hard time keeping up. After that, though, it was a pretty good ride. The worldbuilding may not have been the most original. The plot may not have been the most exhilarating. But underneath that there was brilliant writing that seriously sucked me deep into the world of Aria and Perry.

When I discovered that the narration was third person I was upset. When I discovered it was third person and it alternated between Perry and Aria I was even more upset. Generally, I don't like those types of books, but this one really worked well. It switched at all the right places - not too often, not too scarcely - and really helped readers get to know both of the characters. In the end, it was used to tie together the story lines and conflicts, not just to add action.

My favorite part of this book would be the romance between Perry and Aria. Not because I'm a romance freak, though that has something to do with it. But I think more YA romances should be like theirs. It progressed slowly and naturally, giving readers time to really root for their relationship. After 100 pages, Perry still hadn't told Aria his name. I love love loveddd how it took time for them to trust one another. It got to the point that the first time they kissed, my stomach was in knots because I was so excited! And then, here's the best part: Even though they fell in love, they maintained their individual goals and aspirations.

The character development was absolutely phenomenal, in my opinion. All of the characters grew tremendously, but especially Perry and Aria. Aria started out clueless about the real world. She's lived her entire life in the Realms where everything is generated. She doesn't know real pain and she has never seen a real rock. Perry has trust and self-deprecation issues. He thinks that he really is a Savage, and he thinks that he is cursed and that everyone he loves is doomed, pretty much. These two characters change each other so so so much. At the end, Aria is tough and determined and just made of win. Perry knows what it is like to really love and he knows that he has to do what he has to do to care for his tribe. I can't say for certain who my favorite character was, though, because they were all pretty kickass.

As I said before, the world wasn't that original. The technology had pretty much all been done before, but I still really enjoyed reading about it and learning more about the Pods. I'd recommend this to those who enjoyed Scott Westerfeld's Uglies trilogy and Robin Wasserman's Cold Awakening trilogy.

I couldn't believe how addicted I became to this book. I was utterly absorbed in the words and the story. The writing was very vivid and the plot, while not entirely unique or mind-blowing was still interesting. The action was tense and heart-pounding, and the conclusion was wrapped up nicely while leaving a TON open for the next book. The ending was not necessarily a cliffhanger exactly, but it still left me anxious for the next installment.

This was the last book I read in 2011 and I think it was a fabulous finale. This is a debut that I think true dystopian-lovers will really enjoy.

Sunday, January 1, 2012

In My Mailbox (13) - The Holiday Edition


I didn't post my IMM last week since it was Christmas. But I have quite a bit of awesomeness to show you from the past 2 weeks. Clicking on the titles will take you to the Goodreads page. Please note that the release dates that I state are according to NetGalley and may not be correct. Oh, and HAPPY NEW YEAR! :)

THE HOLIDAY EDITION


Finally, finally, finally! I've heard nothing but rave things about this book and I adore all things Cassandra Clare. I have been waiting what feels like AGES for this book and I finally have it! My daddy finally bought it for me for Christmas!



This is the sequel to Mortal Obligation, which I read and reviewed (here) for a blog tour. I loved the book so much and Nichole was kind enough to offer me an eARC of Mortal Defiance for review. I'm pretty sure the book has been released now, but I'm really excited! I need to find a way to get to it amidst all the NetGalley books.



I've heard so many raave things about this author from twitter and whatnot that once I saw this was free, I had to get it! I'm not crazy about the cover, but whatever.

I'm excited to read this one, too. NUFF SAID.


I think this looks adorable! :) To be released May 1, 2012

I love the cover for this! It's creepy and mysterious. This book looks really good. To be released March 8, 2012.

This sounds like it will be awesome and I absolutely adore the cover. To be released March 27, 2012.

I'm not really sure what this is about, but someone recommended I request it so I did. I'm nit crazy for the cover, though. To be released February 8, 2012.

I'm not sure what this one is about either, but with a title like that, how could I NOT request it? Certainly intrigued. To be released Febuary 14, 2012.

I've heard mixed things aout this book, but I think it sounds like it would be a cute, entertaining read. I've kind of started it, and it is my first read of 2012. To be released January 3, 2012.

I'm not certain what this is about, but I think it is a post-apocalyptic, which means I am TOTALLY DOWN. I love love love the cover. It is creepy and intriguing. I'm really excited to read this. To be released January 31, 2012.


Cheryl had an enormous Twitter giveaway on her release day where she gave out a ton of different prizes if you tweeted #hunted. I tweeted it over and over until I won this signed and personalized copy of Hunted. I also won a signed postcard bonus story and a signed comic strip.

The publisher had a twitter contest where you were entered to win if you retweeted about the trailer for Cinder. I was lucky enough to have won a signed ARC. They also gave me a Cinder mirror, which was super awesome! I've been excited about this book for forever. Cyborg Cinderella? Yes, please! But to add to it, I have seen nothing but rave reviews about this. To be released January 3, 2012.

I won a signed and personalized copy from the author, along with a butterfly ring that matches the one on the cover, a signed bookmark, and a litttle notepad. I am really excited for this! It is a retelling of Cupid and Psyche, which is one of my favorite myths. I actually won this a long time ago, but for some reason the package never made it to me :/ But Jessie was super duper buper luper kind enough to send me another one and I couldn't be more grateful!