Carrie's YA Bookshelf

Guest Blog with Gary Ghislain, Author of How I Stole Johnny Depp's Alien Girlfriend

2011-06-27T20:56:00.002-05:00

I am pleased to welcome the author Gary Ghislain today. Take it away Gary:

Ah, Paris… I had quite a few good reasons to set my story there:

1. I was born in Paris, in the 16th district, the 30th of June, just in time for the summer. I go there very often, nearly once per month. France is so small. You take a train in the French Riviera in the morning, you watch the beautiful French landscape whoosh by for 5 hours while eating croissants, and pouf, you land in Paris just in time for aperitif and lunch.

2. It’s the capital of love. It’s just like this. London is for business. New York is for Art. Paris is for the kiss. It’s nearly impossible to go to Paris and not fall in love. It’s like a local curse. It must be something in the water (or the red wine). It’s our easy-going lifestyle. Our five hours lunch breaks. The music everywhere. Our romantic little cafés. The surrounding beauty of the cityscape. The French lovers kissing in the parks. Or is it just that the Parisian favorite sport is flirting? I don’t know. If I was an E.T. willing to zap Earthlings and destroy the world, I would certainly start with L.A. or New York. But if I was an Alien looking for the perfect partner to French kiss and zoom back to my home planet, I’d start with Paris.

3. This one is probably the most important factor in choosing Paris for my story: Johnny Depp lives there since 1998. Can you imagine? A spacegirl lands in Paris AND she’s looking for Johnny. How lucky is that!?

4. Paris is full of mysterious locations and scary little places. You could easily hide an alien sub-civilization there without anyone noticing. Take the little chapel in Le Marais where I located the Zookian door, the stargate Zelda uses to go back and forth from Vahalal, her home planet. There are plenty of places like that in Paris. There were so many secret societies that no longer exist. So many strange buildings devoted to their cults. They left behind all those surreal sites that fit perfectly in my zany science fiction stories.

5. I love Paris. I adore it. I even like Parisians, even thought everyone else in France sort of hate them. It’s a pity with the pollution, the stress and the largely over priced cup of coffee. But… nothing is perfect! And love is blind and probably makes you immune to toxic fumes.

Thank you so much for stopping by! How I Stole Johnny Depp's Aliend Girlfriend is now available in bookstores everywhere.

Ruby Red Trailer and Giveaway!!

2011-06-08T22:20:00.002-05:00

So here's the awesome trailer for Ruby Red by Kerstin Gier:

And here's even more about the book:

Gwyneth Shepherd's sophisticated, beautiful cousin Charlotte has been prepared her entire life for traveling through time. But unexpectedly, it is Gwyneth, who in the middle of class takes a sudden spin to a different era!

Gwyneth must now unearth the mystery of why her mother would lie about her birth date to ward off suspicion about her ability, brush up on her history, and work with Gideon--the time traveler from a similarly gifted family that passes the gene through its male line, and whose presence becomes, in time, less insufferable and more essential. Together, Gwyneth and Gideon journey through time to discover who, in the 18th century and in contemporary London, they can trust.

I can't wait to read this one, I've heard nothing but good things about it. If you'd like to win your own copy, just leave a comment below with your e-mail address. I will choose winner on the 12th, so hurry and enter now.

In other news, I'm leaving for Disneyworld in the morning. It's an annual trip, but my sister and I are going with some friends this year and their 7-year-old boy. I'm very excited to see Disney through his eyes. I'll also be spending a day at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter!!!! I cannot wait!! I will still try to post from Orlando, but it'll depend on Internet access.

Waiting on Wednesday--Legend by Marie Lu

2011-06-07T21:53:00.003-05:00

Release Date: November 29, 2011 from Putnam Juvenile

Synopsis:

What was once the western United States is now home to the Republic, a nation perpetually at war with its neighbors. Born into an elite family in one of the Republic's wealthiest districts, fifteen-year-old June is a prodigy being groomed for success in the Republic's highest military circles. Born into the slums, fifteen-year-old Day is the country's most wanted criminal. But his motives may not be as malicious as they seem.

From very different worlds, June and Day have no reason to cross paths - until the day June's brother, Metias, is murdered and Day becomes the prime suspect. Caught in the ultimate game of cat and mouse, Day is in a race for his family's survival, while June seeks to avenge Metias's death. But in a shocking turn of events, the two uncover the truth of what has really brought them together, and the sinister lengths their country will go to keep its secrets.

Full of nonstop action, suspense, and romance, this novel is sure to move readers as much as it thrills.

This sounds fantastic and we all know I love a good dystopia. I never seem to get tired of the genre, so bring it on!

The Implosion of Aggie Winchester by Lara Zielin

2011-06-06T20:14:00.004-05:00

Release Date: August 4, 2011 from Putnam Juvenile

Source: From Author

Synopsis:

Sixteen-year-old Aggie Winchester couldn't care less about who's elected prom queen-even if it's her pregnant Goth-girl best friend, Sylvia Ness. Aggie's got bigger things to worry about, like whether or not her ex-boyfriend wants to get back together and whether her mom will survive cancer.

But like it or not, Aggie soon finds herself in the middle of an unfolding prom scandal, largely because her mom, who is the school's principal, is rumored to have burned prom ballots so Sylvia won't be elected queen. Aggie's own investigation makes her wonder if the election could be dirty on both sides.

I was lucky enough to read Lara Zielin's first book, Donut Days, before it hit shelves. It was a wonderful, sweet read that left me feeling light and happy. So, I was thrilled to get a chance to read this book early, too.

Aggie's story couldn't be more different from that of Emma (star of Donut Days). This was a completely different book in every way, but I loved it just as much and maybe even a little bit more. Aggie is lost, surly, and an outsider of the highest order. Her and her friend move through the school striking fear in the hearts of their fellow classmates. Aggie's best friend, Sylvia, is her life. When Sylvia gets pregnant, though, things start to change between them and Aggie's world is rocked. At the same time, she's dealing with her mother's diagnosis of cancer and the fact that her mother and her are constantly at odds.

This is a much edgier book than Donut Days, and probably a little more realistic. At it's heart, though, it is still the story of a girl trying to find herself and her own way in the world. It's wonderfully written and full of great characterization and dialogue. I really loved it and I grew to love Aggie as I read. I saw a lot of myself in Aggie and I couldn't help but root for her to find her way.

Check it out and check out Donut Days while you're at it. Two different books, with the same amount of heart.

Tornado Alley!

2011-05-25T21:50:00.001-05:00

No new review tonight. Today was a bit of a trying day. We had tornado warnings all over the state basically. I live in a suburb of Kansas City and our tornado sirens were running for at least and hour and a half today. Very scary stuff!

I work in an elementary school, so we were all ducking and covering the whole time. I felt bad for the kids who were scared once they knew it wasn't a drill. We were getting reports of possible tornadoes all around our district, but we lucked out. Some areas were not so lucky. Another small town, Sedalia, which isn't too terribly far from here was hit, but luckily no one was injured.

Honestly, I don't know how much more Missouri can take. I feel so badly for the folks down in Joplin. I don't know how you even begin to pick up the pieces. We here in KC got our own taste of the tornado terror today, and it wasn't even a fraction of what they experienced in Joplin.

For now, I'm happy to be home and to know that all of mine and theirs are good. That's all we can hope for this spring.

Graveminder by Melissa Marr

2011-05-24T21:49:00.003-05:00

Release Date: Available Now from William Morrow

Source: Personal Kindle Copy

Synopsis:

The New York Times bestselling author of the Wicked Lovely series delivers her first novel for adults, a story about the living, the dead, and a curse that binds them.
Rebekkah Barrow never forgot the tender attention her grandmother, Maylene, bestowed upon the dead of Claysville, the town where Bek spent her adolescence. There wasn't a funeral that Maylene didn't attend, and at each Rebekkah watched as Maylene performed the same unusual ritual: three sips from a small silver flask followed by the words "Sleep well, and stay where I put you."

Now Maylene is dead and Bek must go back to the place--and the man--she left a decade ago. But what she soon discovers is that Maylene was murdered and that there was good reason for her odd traditions. It turns out that in placid Claysville, the worlds of the living and the dead are dangerously connected. Beneath the town lies a shadowy, lawless land ruled by the enigmatic Charles, aka Mr. D--a place from which the dead will return if their graves are not properly minded. Only the Graveminder, a Barrow woman, and the current Undertaker, Byron, can set things to right once the dead begin to walk.

I love Melissa Marr's Wicked Lovely series, so it was a no-brainer when it came to buying her first adult release. This was a good way for Marr to enter into the adult market, but I have to say, I didn't like it quite as much as her YA books. It was a good book and I enjoyed it, but what I enjoyed was how the voice was so reminiscent of her YA series. I could totally tell I was reading a Melissa Marr book from page one and I liked that about the book.

It's a completely different look at the zombie novel. It has a lot more humanity than your average zombie novel. It's a really original idea and a realm of paranormal that hasn't been done yet. These are all things I did love about Graveminder.

Now, what didn't I love? It started off really strong. I read at least half of it in one sitting, but them it seemed to flatten out a little in the middle. It did pick up in the end, but by then, the ending felt a little rushed.

Overall, though, I did enjoy it. I mean, it's Melissa Marr. I'm always going to show up for anything Marr has to offer. I just wanted a little more, but I know she'll totally bring it next time.

Moon Over Manifest by Clare Vanderpool

2011-05-20T22:40:00.002-05:00

Release Date: Available Now from Delacorte Books for Young Readers

Source: Checked out from school library.

Synopsis:

The movement of the train rocked me like a lullaby. I closed my eyes to the dusty countryside and imagined the sign I’d seen only in Gideon’s stories: Manifest—A Town with a rich past and a bright future.

Abilene Tucker feels abandoned. Her father has put her on a train, sending her off to live with an old friend for the summer while he works a railroad job. Armed only with a few possessions and her list of universals, Abilene jumps off the train in Manifest, Kansas, aiming to learn about the boy her father once was.
Having heard stories about Manifest, Abilene is disappointed to find that it’s just a dried-up, worn-out old town. But her disappointment quickly turns to excitement when she discovers a hidden cigar box full of mementos, including some old letters that mention a spy known as the Rattler. These mysterious letters send Abilene and her new friends, Lettie and Ruthanne, on an honest-to-goodness spy hunt, even though they are warned to “Leave Well Enough Alone.”

Abilene throws all caution aside when she heads down the mysterious Path to Perdition to pay a debt to the reclusive Miss Sadie, a diviner who only tells stories from the past. It seems that Manifest’s history is full of colorful and shadowy characters—and long-held secrets. The more Abilene hears, the more determined she is to learn just what role her father played in that history. And as Manifest’s secrets are laid bare one by one, Abilene begins to weave her own story into the fabric of the town.

Powerful in its simplicity and rich in historical detail, Clare Vanderpool’s debut is a gripping story of loss and redemption.

I'm trying to be better about reading the award books, so I can share them with my students, so when this book was announced as the Newbery winner, I immediately checked it out. First of all, I have to admit, I love stories that take place during the Great Depression. My grandparents are in their late 80's, so I grew up hearing about their lives during the depression. They had two vastly different experiences during that time, so I feel like I've grown up with both sides of the story. Every time I read a book that takes place in the '30's, I feel like I'm sitting with my grandparents and listening to them reminisce.

This was an amazing book. I really can't praise it highly enough. I can see why it was chosen this year, and the Newbery title is well-deserved. It's hard to believe this is Vanderpool's first book, because the storytelling is incredible, the characters are so real, and the history is flawless. I'm a big fan of the writer Fannie Flagg, who wrote Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe,and this book really had the same feel to me. It's just an honest story about life in a small town where everyone knows everyone's secrets, and yet they really don't know one another at all.

If you want a great story with a huge helping of heart, then check this one out. I can't wait to see what Vanderpool comes up with next, but I'd be perfectly content if she just returned to Manifest again and again.

Ch..Ch..Changes!

2011-05-19T21:46:00.002-05:00

So, those of you still out there reading may have noticed I'm trying to get back into the swing of things. My research paper is very nearly finished. It's currently with my second reader, so within the month, I should have my Master's in Library Science. Awesome!! That's the main reason I didn't blog for oh-so-very long. It was just too much. I also stopped, because it ceased being fun. I still love to read and kept right on reading, but I needed a little break. So, no promises, but I'll do my best to keep on keepin' on with the blog.

One big change coming my way is that I'm switching school districts. I love the school I've been at for the past two years, but there were threats of cutting Media Specialists, and I need a job to keep myself in books. I sought employment elsewhere, and got the first job I interviewed for. Thanks goodness!! It's a great school, another elementary, in a neighboring district. It's more money, more chance for growth, and just a new exciting move.

My hope is to share some ideas on the blog when I start in the fall. Sometimes sharing ideas makes them happen.

Okay, so I'll blog as much as possible, except for about 10 glorious days in June when I will be in sunny Florida, basking in the awesomeness that is Disneyworld!!! Can't wait!!

See you all soon, I promise this time. :)

Alanna: The First Adventure by Tamora Pierce

2011-05-18T22:07:00.003-05:00

Release Date: Ummmm, yeah....this has been out since '83, but I'm just now hopping on board. Currently available from Atheneum.

Source: Personal Kindle Copy.

Synopsis:

"From now on I'm Alan of Trebond, the younger twin. I'll be a knight."

And so young Alanna of Trebond begins the journey to knighthood. Alanna has always craved the adventure and daring allowed only for boys; her twin brother, Thom, yearns to learn the art of magic. So one day they decide to switch places: Disguised as a girl, Thom heads for the convent; Alanna, pretending to be a boy, is on her way to the castle of King Roald to begin her training as a page. But the road to knighthood is not an easy one. As Alanna masters the skills necessary for battle, she must also learn to control her heart and to discern her enemies from her allies. Filled with swords and sorcery, adventure and intrigue, good and evil, Alanna's first adventure begins -- one that will lead to the fulfillment of her dreams and make her a legend in the land.

I'm a little late hopping on the Tamora Pierce bandwagon and I'm not sure what finally made me decide to read her books, but I started at the beginning. My first foray into the world of Tortall was Alanna, book one in the Song of the Lioness quartet.

I've never considered myself a fantasy fan, although I don't know why, because I've read my fair share. This book, though, captured me from the very beginning and made me wonder why I waited so long. The character of Alanna really made this book for me. She's so strong and self-assured and yet has some of the same fears and faults that we all do. She's incredibly likable, because I saw in her some of the courage that I wish I'd had at that age, and really, that I wish I had now.

Pierce's world is flawless. Everything just moves so smoothly from page to page, chapter to chapter, and before I knew it, the book was done and I was hungry for more. I finished all four books and each one instantly became my favorite.

If you haven't read the Song of the Lioness books, I urge you to do so. Even if you don't consider yourself a fantasy fan, this book would appeal simply because of the beautiful writing and the masterful characterization. And Alanna totally kicks ass!

Check it out!!

Waiting on Wednesday (79)--Beauty Queens by Libba Bray

2011-05-17T20:24:00.002-05:00

Release Date: May 24, 2011 from Scholastic Press

Synopsis:

From bestselling, Printz Award-winning author Libba Bray comes the story of a plane of beauty pageant contestants that crashes on a desert island.

Teen beauty queens. A Lost-like island. Mysteries and dangers. No access to emall. And the spirit of fierce, feral competition that lives underground in girls, a savage brutality that can only be revealed by a journey into the heart of non-exfoliated darkness. Oh, the horror, the horror! Only funnier. With evening gowns. And a body count.

What's not to love?! I can't wait for this one!!

The Reckoning by Kelley Armstrong

2011-05-16T19:40:00.003-05:00

Release Date: Available Now from HarperTeen

Source: Personal Copy

Synopsis:
My name is Chloe Saunders. I'm fifteen, and I would love to be normal.

But normal is one thing I'm not.

For one thing, I'm having these feelings for a certain antisocial werewolf and his sweet-tempered brother—who just happens to be a sorcerer—but, between you and me, I'm leaning toward the werewolf.

Not normal.

My friends and I are also on the run from an evil corporation that wants to get rid of us—permanently.

Definitely not normal.

And finally, I'm a genetically altered necro-mancer who can raise the dead, rotting corpses and all, without even trying.

As far away from normal as it gets.

When Armstrong's new book The Gathering came out recently, I was reminded that I'd never finished the Darkest Powers trilogy. I had to search my bookshelf to find it again, but it was worth the hunt.

I'm a big Kelley Armstrong fan. I love her adult Otherworld books, but I think her YA works are my favorites. It's everything I love about the Otherworld, but even more fast-paced and fun. Chloe is awesome and while I love her character, what I love even more is that this isn't just Chloe's story. I found myself just as interested in the other characters as I was with what would happen to her. Derek and Simon are fabulous, too. Their story is so intertwined with Chloe's that you can't have one without the other. That's what I love so much about Armstrong. She's a master of characterization. She paints such realistic portraits of characters that don't exist in our world, but it feels like they could and should.

This is a great end to the series, although I feel like there's still a lot of story left to tell. I haven't read The Gathering yet, but after finishing this one it's moving up in my list. I'm interested to see where this new series takes us and I'd love to see a return to the storyline of Chloe, Simon, Derek, and Tori. Here's hoping we'll see more of them in the future.

If you haven't read any Kelley Armstrong books....well, what are you waiting for?!

2011-05-15T20:21:00.003-05:00

Release Date: Available Now from Katherine Tegen Books

Source: From Publisher

Synopsis:

In Beatrice Prior's dystopian Chicago, society is divided into five factions, each dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue—Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). On an appointed day of every year, all sixteen-year-olds must select the faction to which they will devote the rest of their lives. For Beatrice, the decision is between staying with her family and being who she really is—she can't have both. So she makes a choice that surprises everyone, including herself.

During the highly competitive initiation that follows, Beatrice renames herself Tris and struggles to determine who her friends really are—and where, exactly, a romance with a sometimes fascinating, sometimes infuriating boy fits into the life she's chosen. But Tris also has a secret, one she's kept hidden from everyone because she's been warned it can mean death. And as she discovers a growing conflict that threatens to unravel her seemingly perfect society, she also learns that her secret might help her save those she loves . . . or it might destroy her.

Debut author Veronica Roth bursts onto the literary scene with the first book in the Divergent series—dystopian thrillers filled with electrifying decisions, heartbreaking betrayals, stunning consequences, and unexpected romance.

I was completely blown away by this book. I had heard all of the hype from various sources comparing it the The Hunger Games, so when I got the book in the mail, I was almost weary of reading it. I didn't want to be disappointed, nor did I want to read a carbon copy of Hunger Games. I'm so happy that I gave Divergent a chance.

It's a beautifully written book, first of all. Roth has created such a vivid dystopian landscape that while reading it, I almost expected to wake up and have to choose my faction. From page one I was drawn into the world she'd created and into the life of Tris. Tris is such a fantastic character and it was amazing to see her grow as she works her way through this whole new experience. As the reader, I just wanted so much to see her succeed and I almost wanted to jump in there and start working alongside her.

I love dystopias and with so many coming out on the market, it is hard to find an original idea and to create an original world, but Roth has done that and more. Will there be comparisons to The Hunger Games? Of course, and there were moments when I was reminded of Katniss, but this book is so much more than that. I can't wait for the next book in the series. Tris' world is dark, violent, and more than a little scary, but I would gladly return there again and again.

A Visit From Alexander Gordon Smith, Author of Lockdown and Solitary

2011-01-12T00:05:00.005-06:00

A Ghost in the Cell

Hi Carrie, thanks so much for letting me write a guest post for your blog! As this is my first guest post on my blog tour, I wanted to talk a little about the main character, Alex, and the experience of being locked away inside Furnace Penitentiary with him. It was an incredible, life-changing time for both of us.

Alex existed inside my head long before the idea of Furnace came about. He’s me, in so many ways – the me that might have been if I’d taken a few more wrong turns as a teenager. I still think, sometimes, that Alex is a version of me that might actually exist in a different universe. This is why I’m so close to him – we’re twins, inter-dimensional brothers! I wasn’t exactly a bad kid, but I did steal stuff and hang out in biker bars and get into fights. Luckily I had a great family, and they pulled me free before it got out of hand. But the character of Alex stuck around inside my head, the teenage me who didn’t get rescued.

The idea of Furnace grew out of this character, this version of me. I wanted to write a horror story, something genuinely terrifying, and I was struggling to think of an idea that really worked. But Alex was still in my head. Whereas I’d grown up – I was twenty-eight when I started Lockdown – he was still a teenager. He hadn’t had the opportunity to play out his story, to see where his life would lead. I kept thinking about him, this teenager that was locked inside the purgatory of my mind, and eventually I realized that Alex wanted to tell his story. He needed to tell it. As soon as I understood this, the entire book – the prison and the terrible things that happen there – just appeared, almost fully formed. I had my horror story. I’d had it all along.

I started writing. It was incredible, really, as it genuinely felt as though Alex was telling the story and I was merely transcribing it. He was so real to me – a living, breathing person – that all I could do was capture what he was saying. Sometimes it felt like I couldn’t write fast enough to even do that, his voice a torrent, like he’d been waiting to tell this story for so long. It didn’t seem to matter that it was such a brutal sequence of events, that every page brought new horrors. I think the character was just grateful to finally be allowed to live his life, to see where it would lead him.

Like I said, though, it was a life-changing experience for both of us. Not long after I’d started writing, I suffered a personal tragedy. Anyone who’s read the dedication in Lockdown will have an idea of what it was. It was a really, really dark time, the worst in my life. I threw myself into the book as a way of coping with it, a way of forgetting.

I genuinely felt like I was imprisoned inside Furnace Penitentiary, locked away a mile beneath the ground in this hellhole. Like Alex, I had no way out, no way to escape this nightmare. We were both sentenced to rot at the very bottom of the world. I knew that if Alex didn’t find a way out of Furnace, then I’d never get out of this dark place in my own life. We needed each other. We couldn’t survive this alone. I think – I hope – that’s why the book feels so real: because Alex’s terror and confusion and pain and hopelessness were my terror and confusion and pain and hopelessness. It was completely and utterly real to me when I was writing. This is also why the friendships in the book are so important, so powerful. Because I was there, a ghost in the cell, relying on Donovan and Zee and Toby to keep me sane just as much as Alex was. If those guys hadn’t been in Furnace, I don’t know what would have happened to Alex and I don’t know what would have happened to me.

Writing Lockdown helped me get through this tragedy. It helped me to escape. And Alex? Well, I can’t say what happens to him at the end of the book, or the end of the series – I don’t want to give anything away! But I’m so glad he stayed in my head all those years, so glad he wanted to tell his story. Without him, I’d still be inside Furnace, I’d still be a ghost in that cell.

Wow!! Thanks for the awesome guest post! I'm honored to have you visit my blog. Now what are you waiting for reader?! Go pick up Lockdown and Solitary and get reading!

Waiting on Wednesday (78) --The Monday Edition: Cryer's Cross by Lisa McMann

2011-01-10T21:59:00.004-06:00

Release Date: February 8, 2011 from Simon Pulse

Synopsis:

The small town of Cryer’s Cross is rocked by tragedy when an unassuming freshman disappears without a trace. Kendall Fletcher wasn’t that friendly with the missing girl, but the angst wreaks havoc on her OCD-addled brain.
When a second student goes missing—someone close to Kendall’s heart—the community is in an uproar. Caught in a downward spiral of fear and anxiety, Kendall’s not sure she can hold it together. When she starts hearing the voices of the missing, calling out to her and pleading for help, she fears she’s losing her grip on reality. But when she finds messages scratched in a desk at school—messages that could only be from the missing student who used to sit there—Kendall decides that crazy or not, she’d never forgive herself if she didn’t act on her suspicions.

Something’s not right in Cryer’s Cross—and Kendall’s about to find out just how far the townspeople will go to keep their secrets buried.

I loved Lisa McMann's previous books, so I absolutely cannot wait for this one. It's already a Kindle pre-order.

The Lying Game by Sara Shepard

2011-01-06T21:17:00.003-06:00

Release Date: Available Now from HarperTeen

Source: Personal Kindle Copy

Synopsis:

I had a life anyone would kill for.

Then someone did.

The worst part of being dead is that there’s nothing left to live for. No more kisses. No more secrets. No more gossip. It’s enough to kill a girl all over again. But I’m about to get something no one else does—an encore performance, thanks to Emma, the long-lost twin sister I never even got to meet.

Now Emma’s desperate to know what happened to me. And the only way to figure it out is to be me—to slip into my old life and piece it all together. But can she laugh at inside jokes with my best friends? Convince my boyfriend she’s the girl he fell in love with? Pretend to be a happy, carefree daughter when she hugs my parents goodnight? And can she keep up the charade, even after she realizes my murderer is watching her every move?

From Sara Shepard, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Pretty Little Liars books, comes a riveting new series about secrets, lies, and killer consequences.

Let the lying game begin.

I love the Pretty Little Liars books, they are additively awesome. So, after finishing (what I thought would be) the last book in the series, I had some major withdrawal. I was oh so eager to leap back into the world that Sara Shepard had created. Needless to say, I was waiting for The Lying Game and bought it the day it came out.

I really enjoyed the book. I thought it had some great mystery elements and the characters were interesting, especially Emma. I liked watching this girl who's life has been so tough try to take in a life so different from her own. I though Shepard portrayed these differences really well.

I have to say though, I didn't like it as much as the PLL series. Those books kept me reading well into the night looking for the next twist or surprise, but this one read a little slower for me. Still liked it, but just not as much.

Now, of course, I know that there will be fr more books in the PLL series, which thrills me to no end. I can't wait to see what kind of trouble the girls get into this time around.

Obernewtyn by Isobelle Carmody

2011-01-05T20:17:00.002-06:00

Release Date: Available Now from Random House Book for Young Readers

Source: Personal Kindle Copy

Synopsis:

In a world struggling back from the brink of apocalypse, life is harsh. And for Elspeth Gordie, it is also dangerous. That's because Elspeth has a secret: she is a Misfit, born with mysterious mental abilities that she must keep hidden under threat of death. And her worries only multiply when she is exiled to the mountain compound known as Obernewtyn, where—for all her talents—Elspeth may finally and truly be out of her depth. Then she learns she’s not the only one concealing secrets at Obernewtyn.

So this is the book, the book that made me want to blog again. It's been a long while and here's the reason: I just wasn't enjoying it anymore. I felt overwhelmed by review books and I felt like I was missing out on older titles that I wanted to read, but couldn't find the time. Plus, I have to blame my Kindle. I was one of those who said I would never enjoy and eReader, that I would miss the smell, the feel, of books. Yeah, I was wrong. I love my Kindle. I still read paper books every once in awhile, but I do love that Kindle. So, in order to spend some quality time with my Kindle, I stopped blogging for awhile to alleviate the review book stress. Plus I was writing a research paper, working, yada, yada, yada.

Then a couple weeks ago, I decided on a whim to try out Obernewtyn. I'd heard some good things here and there and I'm always up for some post-apocalyptic action, so I figured, why not? I'm so glad I made the leap.

I loved this book. I have since read two more in the series and I have 3 more to go. This book completely swept me away to another world. I love the characters, the premise, and just the overall feel of the book. I love that Carmody has created a whole new world and yet, since it's merely a what if of our own world, there are all these recognizable little pieces of our everyday lives. She really seamlessly places us in this new world and gives us just enough clues so that we never forget that this is could be our future.

Elspeth is one of the most amazing characters I've read about in a long time. She's one of those heroines who I would strive to me, strong and yet flawed. It's just an awesome read. And thanks to Isobelle Carmody, Elspeth, and Obernewtyn, Carrie's YA Bookshelf is back with a new outlook. I will keep on blogging, read what I want to read and share my love of books with whoever chooses to read.

I've missed you all and hope you're still out there!

Waiting on Wednesday (76)--The Lying Game by Sara Shephard

2010-11-16T18:31:00.002-06:00

Release Date: December 7, 2010 from HarperTeen

Synopsis:

I had a life anyone would kill for.

Then someone did.

The worst part of being dead is that there’s nothing left to live for. No more kisses. No more secrets. No more gossip. It’s enough to kill a girl all over again. But I’m about to get something no one else does—an encore performance, thanks to Emma, the long-lost twin sister I never even got to meet.

Now Emma’s desperate to know what happened to me. And the only way to figure it out is to be me—to slip into my old life and piece it all together. But can she laugh at inside jokes with my best friends? Convince my boyfriend she’s the girl he fell in love with? Pretend to be a happy, carefree daughter when she hugs my parents good night? And can she keep up the charade, even after she realizes my murderer is watching her every move?

From Sara Shepard, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Pretty Little Liars books, comes a riveting new series about secrets, lies, and killer consequences.

Let the lying game begin.

I love, love, love Pretty Little Liars, so I'm really excited for the start of this new series by Shephard. I have high hopes that'll it'll rock as much as PLL.

Waiting on Wednesday (76)--Delirium by Lauren Oliver

2010-11-09T21:35:00.002-06:00

Release Date: February 1, 2011 from HarperCollins

Synopsis:

Ninety-five days, and then I'll be safe. I wonder whether the procedure will hurt. I want to get it over with. It's hard to be patient. It's hard not to be afraid while I'm still uncured, though so far the deliria hasn't touched me yet. Still, I worry. They say that in the old days, love drove people to madness. The deadliest of all deadly things: It kills you both when you have it and when you don't.

Lauren Oliver astonished readers with her stunning debut, Before I Fall. In a starred review, Publishers Weekly called it "raw, emotional, and, at times, beautiful. An end as brave as it is heartbreaking." Her much-awaited second novel fulfills her promise as an exceptionally talented and versatile writer.

Before I Fall was an amazing read and I absolutely cannot wait for this one! Luckily I have about a million other books to keep me occupied until February.

Michaela MacColl Blog Tour Stop for Prisoners in the Palace!!!

2010-11-08T03:00:00.000-06:00

Toady I am honored to have Michaela MacColl stopping by to talk about Prisoners in the Palace, which I have to tell you, is one of the best historicals I've read in a very long time. So here's Michaela!!!

Carrie, thank you so much for the opportunity to do a guest post and talk with your readers!

I know you aren’t supposed to have favorite characters, but I do. It’s a shameful secret that we never talk about – shouldn’t we love them all equally? I tell my two daughters – who are as opposite as opposite can be – that love isn’t a zero sum game and that mom’s heart is big enough to love them both exactly the same… but it’s not true. On any given day you are fonder of one than the other. Happily, it quickly flips around and on average, I’m sure it evens out… But I do have a clear favorite character in Prisoners in the Palace.

I have a lot to choose from. There’s Princess Victoria -- she’s haughty and spoiled but she’s never had a chance to be a normal girl, and when pushed to the edge we see she has an enormous heart and extraordinary fortitude. Or my main character, Liza, the distressed gentlewoman fallen on hard times. She leaves a life of luxury to be a maid at dingy Kensington Palace. At first all she wants is to get her old life back, but she soon discovers that she is involved in problems that are greater than herself. And she rises to the occasion. Or what about the villian? Sir John is magnificently smarmy. A poser who can’t help but use people. He treats Victoria shamefully and expects her to reward him for it. It doesn’t get much more fun than that. And then there is Will, a scrappy, self-made newspaper man. He’s riding the wave of the future and wants to bring Liza with him. And I modeled him on Wesley in The Princess Bride with eyes like the sea… he has to be the favorite, right?

But the one I wouldn’t mind being stuck in an elevator with is Inside Boy Jones. He’s based on a real character who was a press sensation in the 1840’s. A street urchin who repeatedly broke into Buckingham Palace and wandered the halls of the royal family. Once they discovered him at the cradle of Victoria’s first daughter, Vicky. Once he disguised himself as a chimney sweep. He was tried for breaking and entering several times. Finally he was sent off to serve his sentence on a warship and jumped overboard at Tunis and perished. As you can imagine, the press loved this guy. Here’s the cover of a book just written about him:

Now I pictured him more like the Artful Dodger from Oliver.

In Prisoners in the Palace, Inside Boy lives in the wall of the sitting room of the Duchess of Kent (Victoria’s mother). He’s a charming thief with a well-defined sense of morality. To his mind, the aristocracy fails to meet his high standards. He is Liza’s link to the outside world, bringing her news and serving as a courier between her and Will. When Liza needs a guide to the underbelly of London, Inside Boy is there. He teaches her thieve’s cant, or Flash Patter, explaining that the language was developed to keep the police from knowing what criminals are talking about. Liza finds it fascinating and ultimately very useful. I love this guy!

So pick up a copy of the book and let me know if Inside Boy is your favorite too? You can contact me through my website, www.michaelamaccoll.com.

Thanks again Carrie!

And Thank You, Michaela for stopping by. I think your book is amazing and I can't wait to read more from you in the future. You should definitely check this one out guys. You can find it here.

If you'd like to try to win a copy, I have 1 copy to give away right here! Please just leave a comment below with your e-mail address.

Thanks!!

Waiting on Wednesday (75)--Across the Universe by Beth Revis

2010-10-19T19:33:00.002-05:00

Release Date: January 11, 2011

Synopsis:

A Story of Love, Murder, and Madness Aboard an Enormous Spaceship Bound for the Future.

Amy is a cryogenically frozen passenger aboard the vast spaceship Godspeed. She expects to wake up on a new planet, 300 years in the future. But fifty years before Godspeed's scheduled landing, Amy's cryo chamber is unplugged, and she is nearly killed.

Now, Amy is caught inside an enclosed world where nothing makes sense. Godspeed's passengers have forfeited all control to Eldest, a tyrannical and frightening leader, and Elder, his rebellious and brilliant teenage heir.

Amy desperately wants to trust Elder. But should she? All she knows is that she must race to unlock Godspeed's hidden secrets before whoever woke her tries to kill again.

Across the Universe is Titanic meets Brave New World.

I'm a not-so-closet sci fi fan, so this one sounds AMAZING! They had me at "cryogenically frozen." Can't wait for January!!

I'm Back...Sort Of!

2010-10-17T20:42:00.002-05:00

Hello all!!

I know I haven't posted much lately, but I am really trying to get back into it. I miss the blogosphere and I miss chatting about books, but I've been super busy with work and school, which sometimes is one in the same for me. As many of you know, I'm an elementary school media specialist, and I'm also taking my last two classes for my Master's in Library Science. All I have left after this semester is my research paper, so YAY! This is all keeping me extremely busy and has put a major dent in my blogging.

I'm trying to make a comeback, though. I can't promise I'll blog everyday, but I will try to blog more regularly. I've been reading more Middle Grade stuff than YA lately, but I'm currently reading Paranormalcy on my Kindle. I'm trying to read more of what I want to read rather than what I feel like I have to read.

So, I have some reviews coming up this week to try to get rolling again. If you're still out there, thanks for sticking around!

I Heart Rob Zombie!!

2010-10-06T23:56:00.002-05:00

Yes, yes it's true. I think the Zombie is dreamy. I love his music and his movies and tonight, I saw him in concert along with the amazing Alice Cooper. Ahhhh, it was a night of rock awesomeness.

If the Halloween Hootenanny Tour comes through your town, you should definitely check it out. I may be deaf tomorrow, but it was totally worth it.

Waiting on Wednesday (74)--Hold Me Closer, Necromancer by Lish McBride

2010-10-05T20:53:00.002-05:00

Release Date: Ocotber 12, 2010 from Henry, Holt & Co.

Synopsis:

Sam leads a pretty normal life. He may not have the most exciting job in the world, but he’s doing all right—until a fast food prank brings him to the attention of Douglas, a creepy guy with an intense violent streak.

Turns out Douglas is a necromancer who raises the dead for cash and sees potential in Sam. Then Sam discovers he’s a necromancer too, but with strangely latent powers. And his worst nightmare wants to join forces . . . or else.

With only a week to figure things out, Sam needs all the help he can get. Luckily he lives in Seattle, which has nearly as many paranormal types as it does coffee places. But even with newfound friends, will Sam be able to save his skin?

This one had me with that title...love it! The synopsis sounds pretty awesome, too.

And check out the trailer:

Fallout by Ellen Hopkins

2010-10-04T20:05:00.002-05:00

Release Date: Available Now from Margaret K. McElderry

Source: Personal Collection (Kindle)

Synopsis:

Hunter, Autumn, and Summer—three of Kristina Snow’s five children—live in different homes, with different guardians and different last names. They share only a predisposition for addiction and a host of troubled feelings toward the mother who barely knows them, a mother who has been riding with the monster, crank, for twenty years.

Hunter is nineteen, angry, getting by in college with a job at a radio station, a girlfriend he loves in the only way he knows how, and the occasional party. He's struggling to understand why his mother left him, when he unexpectedly meets his rapist father, and things get even more complicated. Autumn lives with her single aunt and alcoholic grandfather. When her aunt gets married, and the only family she’s ever known crumbles, Autumn’s compulsive habits lead her to drink. And the consequences of her decisions suggest that there’s more of Kristina in her than she’d like to believe. Summer doesn’t know about Hunter, Autumn, or their two youngest brothers, Donald and David. To her, family is only abuse at the hands of her father’s girlfriends and a slew of foster parents. Doubt and loneliness overwhelm her, and she, too, teeters on the edge of her mother’s notorious legacy. As each searches for real love and true family, they find themselves pulled toward the one person who links them together—Kristina, Bree, mother, addict. But it is in each other, and in themselves, that they find the trust, the courage, the hope to break the cycle.

Told in three voices and punctuated by news articles chronicling the family’s story, FALLOUT is the stunning conclusion to the trilogy begun by CRANK and GLASS, and a testament to the harsh reality that addiction is never just one person’s problem.

Let me start by saying that I am an Ellen Hopkins fan. I've read all of her books and I liked each and every one. That being said, this one just didn't do it for me. Here's the thing, it could be the format in which I read the book. In the past, I've always bought the hardcovers and I like how they are set up. The poems all have unique shapes that add to the reading and I usually buzz right through the books. Well, this time, because I'm obsessed with my Kindle, I bought the eBook version. It just wasn't the same. Some books should be experienced the old fashioned way and I think Hopkins' books fall into that category. I just couldn't get into the book. I finished it, but it took me a lot longer than it normally would have.

I thought the story was powerful, but it was almost too much for me. I found myself getting depressed reading about these people being depressed. I think Autumn and Summer were my favorite characters. I just kept reading along hoping they wouldn't take certain twists and turns. It's a bit like watching a car wreck, you just can't turn away.

I do think that Hopkins has captured the pain that drug addiction can cause to an entire family, but with this book, she also shows how that pain can reach out to even those who are acquainted with the family members. I have to say, though, I'm glad this is the final book about Kristina. I don't think I could take another one. I had to immediately move onto something cheerful: The Search for Wondla by Tony DiTerlizzi. I felt like my brain needed a good cleansing.

Will I still read Ellen Hopkins even though I was disappointed in this latest book? Of course! I will eagerly purchase all of her future books.....I just won't read them on my Kindle. :)

Guest Post From The Amazing Cinda Williams Chima!!!

2010-09-30T22:03:00.005-05:00

Today, I am truly thrilled to welcome one of my favorite authors to the blog: Cinda Williams Chima. Her new book The Exiled Queen is fantastic and should be added to your shelves ASAP. So, listen in while Cinda tells us about one of her favorite topics, Thieves.

What Is It About Thieves?

The viewpoint characters in my Seven Realms series are archetypes of fantasy fiction.

Raisa ana’Marianna is the princess heir of the queendom of the Fells, the mixed blood product of a troubled marriage between Queen Marianna and Averill Lightfoot Demonai, patriarch of a clan of upland warriors.

Han Alister is a thief and streetgang leader who is trying to go straight. He has a magical legacy, as evidenced by the silver wristcuffs he’s worn since birth. His mother believes that he’s demon-cursed, and there are times that he believes it, too.

A princess and a thief. Why do these fantasy tropes surface over and over again?

The fascination with princesses is understandable, I suppose. They are glamorous and rich and get to dress up and go to parties. Depending on the princess and the story, they may be powerful or not. And, like it or not, princesses are a whole industry these days.

Thieves, on the other hand, live on the down-low. Yet they are often depicted as heroes or, at least, sympathetic characters in mythology, history, film, and literature—from Dickens’s Artful Dodger to the Robin Hood legends, from the French poet-thief Francois Villon to Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid.

Thieves in mythology include tricksters such as Loki in Norse mythology and Coyote in Native American stories. One of my favorite thieves in contemporary fantasy fiction is Eugenides, the hero of Megan Whalen Turner’s Queen’s Thief series. He fools everyone--the reader included—but he has a claim to respectability, at least, since he’s the queen’s official thief.

One of my favorite characters in Tamora Pierce’s Circle of Magic series is a talented thief named Briar, and her Beka Cooper series features the dangerously attractive thief-lord Rasto. Thieves are even a character class in role-playing games such as Dungeons and Dragons.

In real life, thieves often steal from the poor, because they have ready access to them. Literary thieves steal from the rich and undeserving. I suppose it seems like rough justice to us (especially if they turn around and give to the poor.) In stories, thieves often steal for a noble purpose—to feed a starving family, or to support a rebellion against a tyrant.

Thievery creates conflict—and conflict drives story. As The Demon King opens, Han Alister takes an amulet from Micah Bayar, the High Wizard’s son. That precipitates a whole cascade of disasters that ripples through the entire series.

Nobody wants to read about a marginally-successful, no-account thief. So literary thieves are charming, charismatic, and very, very good at what they do. The archetypical thief follows an honor code of sorts. Even if they reform, they continue to use their thief skills to do good.

Thieves appeal to the rogue in all of us, because they live by their wits, often making fools of their more powerful adversaries. They give hope to the small and unbuff like me. They can get into forbidden places, ferret out secrets, and take risks that we wouldn’t take ourselves. Perhaps we all have a streak of larceny in us. We’re all rule-breakers at heart.

Writer T.N. Tobias discusses the pros and cons of using archetypes in fiction. To go beyond archetype, he suggests that you build the character from the inside out, developing aspects of character such as motivation, purpose, methods, and self-reflection in order to make them rich and believable.

http://tnt-tek.com/writing/writing-fantasy-beyond-the-archetype/

Characters that are layered, flawed, and unpredictable, characters who transform themselves, characters who break the rules—those characters will win us over, archetypes or not.

Why do archetypes exist in fantasy? Because they work so well in story.

The Demon King is now available in paperback, and The Exiled Queen released September 28. There will be four books in the Seven Realms series, followed by two more Heir books.

Excerpts from each of my books are available on my website, www.cindachima.com. Help for writers can be found under Tips for Writers, including a document called, “Getting Started in Writing for Teens.”

I blog at http://cindachima.blogspot.com/, where you’ll find rants, posts on the craft of writing, and news about me and my books.

Thank you for visiting Cinda and I can't tell you how thrilled I am that there are four books in this series and two more Heir books to come. That news just made my day.

The House of Dead Maids by Clare Dunkle Tour Stop and Giveaway!

2010-09-24T00:01:00.000-05:00

Today, I have a very special guest, Clare Dunkle, who is touring to promote her awesome book, The House of Dead Maids. Here's what Clare has to say about Wuthering Heights, the inspiration for her book:

Emily Brontë’s classic novel, Wuthering Heights, is as nebulous as a winter cloud. Brontë refuses to guide us; she steps back and leaves her readers free to make up their own minds. Some call her book romantic because of the undying love between Heathcliff and Cathy. Others call it tormented obsession. Some call it a thrilling tale of revenge against injustice; others, a grotesque portrait of a psychopath.

If I had come across Wuthering Heights in my teenage years, I might find Heathcliff’s brooding passion for Cathy attractive. And if I were to read the book for the first time now, I’m sure I would find him repellant. But I first read Heathcliff’s story when I was just a child, so it is the child Heathcliff who has always mattered most to me. When I was little, I noticed each of the injustices done to this unwanted boy, including the selfish cruelty of his foster father, who kept the child as a kind of pet but couldn’t be bothered to provide for his future even though the old man knew he was dying.

The nine-year-old me found Wuthering Heights absolutely terrifying. Much of it was beyond my comprehension, making what I did grasp even more dreadful. I felt as if I were hiding in a closet and watching gang violence unfold in the room right in front of me.

Poor dead Cathy, wandering home after twenty years, gave me the shivers, but I found Lockwood even more awful for the way he treated the little ghost, rubbing her thin arm against broken glass to try to escape her. She was undead, my fourth-grade brain reasoned; she couldn’t help being scary. He was a grown man, an adult, and adults in my world were supposed to help children, even if those children were undead. But the burgeoning storyteller in me tested his reaction and decided that it was probable, so I learned a horrifying life lesson from Lockwood’s heartlessness.

That same heartlessness—selfish adult against helpless child—occurs again and again in the pages of Wuthering Heights. Solemn little bookish child that I was back then, I felt each new outburst of cruelty deeply. And when the mature Heathcliff stands aside to allow poor, ignorant young Hareton a chance at happiness—to me that was not, as some critics have termed it, a clumsy resolution or a tacked-on dénouement. To me, it was the moment of Wuthering Heights.

So it’s no surprise that these are the major themes of my Wuthering Heights prequel, The House of Dead Maids. Two unwanted children enter that labyrinth of a story with only one another to rely on. The ghosts they meet are scary—because how can a ghost help being scary? It’s in the very nature of the undead. But it is the adults in my book, with their selfish callousness, who have the power to terrify. And it is the one brief moment of compassion from an unlikely source that lights up the whole story for me and makes the journey worthwhile.

Amazing, right? And here's what you can win:

Special Brontë-themed giveaway!

One Grand Prize winner will receive The House of Dead Maids, a gorgeous Brontë sisters pocket mirror, and the HarperTeen edition of Wuthering Heights! Two lucky runners-up will receive the two books.

To enter, send an email to DeadMaidsBook@gmail.com with your name, email address, and shipping address (if you're under 13, submit a parent's name and email address). One entry per person and prizes will only be shipped to US or Canadian addresses. Entries must be received by midnight (PDT) on October 31. Winners will be selected in a random drawing on November 1 and notified via email.

If you'd like to catch Clare on her next stop, she'll be popping up on The Neverending Shelf. Stop by and show your love!

In My Mailbox (60)

2010-09-12T01:30:00.002-05:00

As always, In My Mailbox is brought to you by Kristi, AKA The Story Siren.

Only one book in my mailbox this week, but I literally squealed when I saw it.

For Review:

The Exiled Queen by Cinda Williams Chima

Release Date: September 28, 2010 from Hyperion Book CH

Synopsis:

You can't always run from danger...

Haunted by the loss of his mother and sister, Han Alister journeys south to begin his schooling at Mystwerk House in Oden’s Ford. But leaving the Fells doesn’t mean danger isn’t far behind. Han is hunted every step of the way by the Bayars, a powerful wizarding family set on reclaiming the amulet Han stole from them. And Mystwerk House has dangers of its own. There, Han meets Crow, a mysterious wizard who agrees to tutor Han in the darker parts of sorcery—but the bargain they make is one Han may regret.

Meanwhile, Princess Raisa ana’Marianna runs from a forced marriage in the Fells, accompanied by her friend Amon and his triple of cadets. Now, the safest place for Raisa is Wein House, the military academy at Oden's Ford. If Raisa can pass as a regular student, Wein House will offer both sanctuary and the education Raisa needs to succeed as the next Gray Wolf queen.

The Exiled Queen is an epic tale of uncertain friendships, cut-throat politics, and the irresistible power of attraction.

I know, right?! I loved The Demon King and I've been waiting for this one ever since. I'll also be hosting a stop on Cinda's blog tour at the end of September, so stay tuned for that.

The Danger Box by Blue Balliett

2010-09-09T20:52:00.004-05:00

Release Date: Available Now from Scholastic Press

Source: Personal Copy

Synopsis:

A boy in a small town who has a different way of seeing.

A mischievous girl who won't stay in one place.

A mysterious notebook .

A fire.

A stranger.

A death.

These are some of the things you'll find within The Danger Box, the new mystery from bestselling author Blue Balliett.

It's hard to talk about this book without giving too much away. I've never read Blue Balliett's other books, Chasing Vermeer, The Wright 3, or The Calder Game. It's one of those series that I've always meant to get around to but never have. I saw The Danger Box at my local B&N and was immediately drawn in by the cover. Yes folks, I in fact do judge books by their covers, and am I ever glad that I did.

The Danger Box is a phenomenal read. It's hard to explain, but a true joy to read. The cast of characters found a place in my heart from page one, especially the central character Zoomy who lives with his grandparents in the small town of Three Oaks, Michigan. Zoomy is one of those kids who is wise beyond his years, and rightfully so. I've met some curious and lovable kids just like him working at the school and they're always my favorites.

Above all, this is a wonderful mystery with a puzzle at its heart. It's full of history, friendship, intrigue and heart. Check out The Danger Box. I think it'll steal your heart like it did mine.

Oh, by the way, I've already bought Chasing Vermeer. It'll be my next read.

Winner, Winner!!

2010-09-08T20:16:00.001-05:00

So, this has been awhile coming, but I'm just getting back into the swing of things. The winner of the book Hannah is:

Dominique

The winner of all three books is:

Alicia

Congrats Ladies!!

I'll be sending you an e-mail shortly, so get back to me as soon as possible.

Thanks!!!!!

Waiting on Wednesday (73)--The Devouring #3: Fearscape by Simon Holt

2010-09-07T22:18:00.003-05:00

Release Date: October 5, 2010 from Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Synopsis:

The Vours: evil, demonic beings that inhabit human bodies on Sorry Night, the darkest hours of the Winter Solstice.

It's been a year since Reggie first discovered the Vours, and the Winter Solstice is approaching once again. It will be another night of unspeakable horror for those unlucky enough to be taken by the Vours, because this time, she won't be able to stop them. The Vours have imprisoned Reggie in a psychiatric hospital, where she is subjected to a daily routine of unfathomably sadistic experiments. Her life is a living Hell, but she won't give up. They attacked her brother. They killed her friend. And Reggie will never stop fighting back.

I really loved the first two books in this series. They're great thrillers that kept me reading well into the wee small hours. Can't wait for this one!

Monster High by Lisi Harrison

2010-09-06T15:21:00.002-05:00

Release Date: Available Now from Poppy

Source: From Publisher

Synopsis:

And you thought your high school was scary!

Frankie Stein just enrolled at Merston High School in the quiet town of Salem, Oregon. She is looking forward to all that the future holds: rockin' parties, shopping sprees, and, of course, cute boys!

But high school hides a MONSTER of a secret: The fantastically fabulous kids of the world's most famous monsters hand out in plain sight among the "normie" student body!
Even though she was created only fifteen days ago, Frankie is wise enough to know that if her secret gets out, her high school dreams could be as fragile as her not-entirely-secure body parts!

When she meets normie newcomer Melody Carver, who has a crush on a boy from the monster clique, Frankie begins to wonder if Merston HIgh is big enough for monsters and normies to coexist--but is it worth the risk to find out?

What a fabulous book! I never read Lisi Harrison's Clique series. It just never appealed to me, but after reading this one, I think maybe I should have given them a chance. Her writing is quick and witty and her characters are out of this world.

I love the concept behind this book. All the world's famous monsters, from Frankenstein to the Creature from the Black Lagoon, really do exist and live pretty boringly normal lives in Oregon. They just want to fit and, most importantly, they just want their kids to fit in.

Frankie is one of those kids and she's pretty darned awesome. She loves all the things that most girls love, fashion, boys, and hanging out with the girls. Unfortunately, she has more than just the odd pimple to cover with makeup. I loved Frankie and Melody. They were both wonderfully written and really just fun characters to read about.

I laughed a lot while reading this book, but it also makes some pretty important statements about the quest to fit in with the other kids. And what lengths we go to to be considered "normal". I can't recommend Monster High highly enough. It's one of the funnest reads I've read in quite a long while.

Blog Tour and Giveaway! Hannah: My True Story of Drugs, Cutting, and Mental Illness by Hannah Westberg

2010-08-19T02:00:00.000-05:00

Release Date: Available Now from HCI Teens

Source: From Publicist

Synopsis:

Hannah is a girl interrupted.

For Hannah Westberg, life has been one big emotional roller coaster. As a girl, her mother was in and out of mental hospitals, so when it was her turn to visit the psych ward following a suicide attempt the summer after eighth grade, she had an idea of what she was in for. But that was only the beginning of Hannah's journey.

Over the next five years, Hannah has engaged in dangerous behaviors--from pill popping and excessive dieting to cutting--and paid a high price. Her depression, self-harm, and suicidal tendencies have landed her in rehab and therapy and with a diagnosis of borderline personality disorder. But though she may have a label for her mental illness and tools for coping, for Hannah, life is still something she takes one day at a time.

'The psych ward is where you go to get from fragile to shattered. It's like taking your car to get washed and getting your windshield broken in the process.'

Because Truth Is More Fascinating Than Fiction

www.louderthanwordsbooks.com

Hannah's story is a powerful one, and it gave me new insight into dealing with mental illness. This is an issue that people everywhere are dealing with. I've met kids through my work at the school who are dealing with borderline personality disorder. It's a life-changing diagnosis that doesn't have any quick fixes.

It was inspiring to me to see Hannah face her problems head on. I appreciated the fact that she admits it's not always easy and that her life is a work in progress, which can be said for all of us. I would love to read more from Hannah as she moves further and further into her uncertain future.

This is a book that makes you thankful for what you have, and makes you want to reach out and help those around you. I think this is a really important series for teens and I can't wait to read more.

If you'd like to read Hannah's story for yourself, you can win a copy here. In addition, one lucky winner will receive all three books in the Louder Than Words series:

Hannah by Hannah Westberg

Alexis: My True Story of Being Seduced By an Online Predator by Alexis Singer

Rae: My True Story of Fear, Anxiety, and Social Phobia by Chelsea Swigget

So, one winner gets Hannah's book. And one winner wins all three books.

To enter, simply leave a comment below with your e-mail address. Contest ends Friday, August 27th, hurry up and enter already!

If you'd like to see more of the tour, visit YA Book Queen tomorrow for a review of Rae!

Wow!!

2010-08-18T23:17:00.002-05:00

I just realized how close we are to Mockingjay!!! Woo hoo!! Now if I can just make it these last few days.

That is all!!

It's A Book by Lane Smith Trailer!!

2010-08-17T20:44:00.002-05:00

Check this out!! It looks adorable and very timely. I can't wait to read it!

Taking A Short Break

2010-07-29T22:36:00.003-05:00

You may have noticed that I haven't posted much in the last two weeks. I'm taking a little bit of a break. This is my last full week off before I head back to school, so I'm trying to take a little me time, while also brainstorming ideas for my library next year.

Also, I've been reading more adult stuff since I bought a Kindle. I've found that since I started blogging, I only have time for YA books and so many of the authors that I used to love have gotten pushed to the back. It's catch up time. I love blogging, but when it starts to become a chore, I know it's time for a little break. I shall return though, probably pretty shortly. I can't seem to stay away for long. I have a couple blog tours coming up, too, so that always gets me back in the mood.

Until then, enjoy some summer fun!!

Waiting on Wednesday (72)--Forge by Laurie Halse Anderson

2010-07-27T23:02:00.003-05:00

Release Date: October 19, 2010 from Atheneum

Synopsis:

In this compelling sequel to Chains, a National Book Award Finalist and winner of the Scott O’Dell Award for Historical Fiction, acclaimed author Laurie Halse Anderson shifts perspective from Isabel to Curzon and brings to the page the tale of what it takes for runaway slaves to forge their own paths in a world of obstacles—and in the midst of the American Revolution.

The Patriot Army was shaped and strengthened by the desperate circumstances of the Valley Forge winter. This is where Curzon the boy becomes Curzon the young man. In addition to the hardships of soldiering, he lives with the fear of discovery, for he is an escaped slave passing for free. And then there is Isabel, who is also at Valley Forge—against her will. She and Curzon have to sort out the tangled threads of their friendship while figuring out what stands between the two of them and true freedom.

So, I don't have a picture of the Forge cover yet. Instead, I posted the lovely cover for Chains, the first book in the series. This is one of my most highly anticipated books of the year. The first book absolutely blew me away and I know this one will not disappoint. It never ceases to amaze me how talented Laurie is. She's always surprises me!

Nightshade by Andrea Cremer

2010-07-25T22:31:00.002-05:00

Release Date: October 19, 2010 from Philomel

Source: From Publisher

Synopsis:

Calla Tor has always known her role: as soon as she graduates from the Mountain School, she will become the mate of sexy alpha wolf Ren Laroche and fight with him, side by side, ruling their pack and guarding sacred sites for the keepers. However, Calla is steered away from her destiny--and the unassailable laws of her masters--when she rescues a beautiful human, Shay. Calla is suddenly torn between her previously unquestioned fate and her natural attraction to Ren, and her growing desire to know more about the mysterious Shay. Following that desire is dangerous, however--and Calla might lose everything she holds dear. Even her own life. Is forbidden love worth the ultimate sacrifice?

This book is being touted as the next big thing in YA literature. In many cases, when I hear something is the "next big thing," it fails to live up to the hype. That is so not the case with Nightshade. I picked this book up pretty much immediately after receiving it in the mail and I devoured it very quickly. It's a fantastic read and one of the best paranormals, YA nor not, that I've read in a long time. Just when I think I'm getting tired of the genre, Andrea Cremer comes onto the scene and pulls me back in.

From page one, I was swept into Calla's story. I've always been a werewolf fan, but Cremer puts a whole new spin on the mythology and gives us a kickass heroine who I would follow anywhere. Calla is amazing, tough, and no-nonsense, but she cares so deeply about the people around her that it's her heart that really drew me in. Cheesy, I know, but true.

There's an amazing cast of characters throughout the book. I almost wish I'd waited to read it, because now I have to wait that much longer for the second book. Argh, what was I thinking? Secrets are revealed, but only enough to keep you chomping at the bit for book two. This is what great series are made of, and if the next two books are as good as this one, then this will indeed be the "next big thing." Thank you Andrea Cremer, for making paranormal new again!

Dear Dylan by Siobhan Curham

2010-07-23T21:46:00.002-05:00

Release Date: Available Now from AuthorHouse

Source: From Author

Synopsis:

Fourteen year old Georgie Harris feels as if the summer holidays are over before they have even begun. Banned from going to the local drama workshop by her bully of a step-dad and her increasingly fragile mum she is consigned to six long weeks of babysitting her kid sister. Sick of feeling like the outsider at home and at school, she starts emailing the one person she thinks might understand; Dylan Curtland, star of the popular soap opera Jessop Close. And when Dylan starts emailing back Georgie finally feels a spark of hope. At last she has someone who really gets her, someone who really wants to help. But in the faceless world of email all is not as it seems....

This book was totally not what I expected from reading the description, but it ended up being so much more than I expected. This is an absolutely charming novel. There's really no other way to say it...it's just such a sweet and moving read that I didn't want to leave these characters behind.

While I was reading Dear Dylan, I couldn't help but be reminded of the book 84, Charing Cross Road by Helene Hanff. While the correspondence in Dear Dylan is fictional, Charing Cross are actual letters shared between two fascinating yet normal people. In both works, you get to see friendships grow through the faceless intimacy that letters and/or e-mails offer.

I really loved Georgie. She's has such an honest voice that you can't help but cheer for her as she's constantly overcoming obstacles. Her experience is one that many children are facing and it's nice to read a story where someone is willing to help.

I was one of those fangirly kids who wrote to her favorite celebrities, of course, it was completely a pencil and paper affair back then. So, I could completely relate to Georgie as she looked to one of her idols for the answers. Those answers sometimes just happen to come from other sources.

Check Dear Dylan out and read 84, Charing Cross Road while your at it. They are both wonderful reads full of laughs, tears, and heart.

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes!

2010-07-19T22:30:00.000-05:00

Okay, I've been MIA the last couple of days. We are switching cable and internet services, so I've been trying to clear the DVR and to move my emails. My new address is sidebar. Sorry for the absence, but I'll be back as soon as I can.

A Visit From Katie Williams, Author Of The Space Between Trees + A Giveaway!!

2010-07-16T02:00:00.002-05:00

Dear readers,

You’ve already noticed, haven’t you? My voice sounds different.

That’s because you’re not hearing from Carrie today, but instead from Katie Williams. Your lovely librarian Carrie has been generous enough to lend me her blog to help get the word out about my new novel, The Space Between Trees.

The Space Between Trees opens with the body of a teenage girl found murdered in the woods behind the affluent neighborhood where she lives. Two of the dead girl’s friends, observant Evie and fierce Hadley, team up in an investigation to find the killer…an investigation that goes very wrong, making these girl detectives question not just the facts of the case, but their own capacity for violence.

I was excited to write the story of The Space Between Trees because I’ve always been fascinated by the figure of the girl detective. She’s young and female, so she’s a typical victim. When she’s faced with a crime, one might expect a certain amount of gasping and heaving and running in high-heeled shoes. But the girl detective subverts our silly stereotypes and our all-too-real crime statistics. Instead of being emotional, she’s rational. Instead of running away, she runs toward. Instead of needing saving, she saves the day. In a world that would control her, that would relegate her to victim or (a touch luckier) damsel-in-distress, she exerts control. She uses her intelligence and reason to order the world around her, to keep herself and others safe.

Lest you think I like wooden supergirls, you should know that my favorite girl detectives are not the pert, perfect reason-machines, like Nancy Drew, but rather the fallible gum-shoes, like Veronica Mars, who sometimes get their own needs and life mixed up with their investigation. See, girl detectives are always solving two mysteries at the same time: The mystery at hand, say the murder or robbery, and the mystery of adolescence. That is to say, girl detectives are at a point in their lives where they’re figuring out who they are, who they want to be, and what they can expect from the world around them. The hint of this messier, personal mystery beneath the obvious case-to-be-solved creates the opportunity for the detective to be changed by her investigation, and the reader to be changed along with her.

Thanks for reading my thoughts about girl detectives! You can read more about The Space Between Trees, including the first chapter, at my website katiewilliamsbooks.com.

And now, how about you? Who is one of your favorite girl detectives? And why is she great? Add her to the comment section below.

Hmm....my favorite girl detective? I always loved Nancy Drew growing up, but I have to agree with Katie and her thoughts on Veronica Mars. I think that show pushed Veronica up to the top of my girl detective list. Please share your thoughts below and one lucky winner will receive an autographed copy of The Space Between Trees!! How awesome it that?!

Visit Katie's next stop over at Bookalicious Blog!
Contest ends July 23 and is open to US residents only.

Thanks to Katie for stopping by and sharing your girl detective love with us!!

The Space Between Trees by Katie Williams

2010-07-15T21:20:00.004-05:00

Release Date: Available Now from Chronicle Books

Source: From Publicist

Synopsis:

In this haunting tale, quirky loner Evie is in the wrong place at the wrong time when her sometime friend and total crush, Jonah, discovers a body in the woods--a body that turns out to be that of her childhood playmate. At the funeral, a fateful lie leads Evie into a complicated relationship with the dead girl's father and best friend. Before she realizes what is happening, Evie is on the hunt for a killer, spinning more lies along the way and putting herself in serious danger.

I completely adored this book! It's no secret that I love mysteries and I have to say that this is one of the most exciting, intense, and beautifully-written mysteries I've read in a long time.

It's easy not to like Evie. She rubs people the wrong way, but her quirkiness and abrasiveness only made me love her more. This was such a thrilling read and the tension just kept building and building which incidentally kept me reading and reading. It has such an engaging and yet chilling atmosphere to it which only adds to the mystery.

In Evie's world you never know who to trust and everyone is a suspect, but somehow Evie finds the courage within herself to keep going and keep pushing for the truth. It's such an intriguing storyline filled with fascinating characters. It's also one of the best YA novels I've read this year. Check it out!!

And join me tomorrow when I'll have a guest post from Katie Williams herself and a couple of awesome surprises!!

The Eternal Ones trailer

2010-07-14T22:58:00.001-05:00

The Grimm Legacy

2010-07-14T22:58:00.000-05:00

Halo by Alexandra Adornetto

2010-07-14T22:56:00.000-05:00

Waiting on Wednesday (71)-- I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore

2010-07-13T21:39:00.003-05:00

Release Date: August 3, 2010 from Harpercollins

Synopsis:

Nine of us came here. We look like you. We talk like you. We live among you. But we are not you. We can do things you dream of doing. We have powers you dream of having. We are stronger and faster than anything you have ever seen. We are the superheroes you worship in movies and comic books—but we are real.

Our plan was to grow, and train, and become strong, and become one, and fight them. But they found us and started hunting us first. Now all of us are running. Spending our lives in shadows, in places where no one would look, blending in. we have lived among you without you knowing.

But they know.

They caught Number One in Malaysia.
Number Two in England.
And Number Three in Kenya.
They killed them all.

I am Number Four.
I am next.

This looks awesome and it's already being made into a movie. It's been on my radar for awhile, but while cruising Amazon today, it popped up on my screen. Figured it was as good a time as any to share it with everybody. And it comes out fairly soon, too. Not too long to wait!

Queen of Secrets Blog Tour---Meet Jenny Meyerhoff!!

2010-07-13T02:00:00.000-05:00

Today, I'd like to welcome Jenny Meyerhoff to Carrie's YA Bookshelf. She'd like to share with you a little insight into Queen of Secrets, a book I love, love, loved. You can check out my review here.

I’ve heard people laugh about the fact that more often than not the kids in books are orphans. I’ve also heard the explanation that it’s because child and teen protagonists need to have autonomy in order to be the heroes and heroines of their own stories and if they had parents, the parents would likely (as in real life) step in and help them solve their problems. And I do think this is true. But for me, another reason to write about an orphaned heroine (as I did with Essie in QUEEN OF SECRETS) and the reason I’ve loved so many books with orphans as the main character (Anne of Green Gables and Harry Potter are two of my favorites) is because the parentless state is the ideal backdrop to write about the search for love.

When I say love, I don’t mean romantic love or platonic love or even parental love. Forgive me if I start to sound new age-y, but what I really mean by love is a sort of pure sense of acceptance and envelopment by the universe – ultimate love. I think on a certain level it’s a feeling we are all looking for everyday of our lives and so when we read about it, that where do I belong, who do I belong to journey resonates with almost everyone.

My main character, Essie, certainly got a lot of parental love from the grandparents who raised her, but I don’t think it always felt to her like that pure ultimate love she was craving. In the course of the book she starts to look other places, and often the wrong places for that love. I know I’ve made that mistake in my life before, and in the end I’ve started to learn that this kind of love has to start from within, so Essie’s journey really means a lot to me. Hopefully it’s something that will mean a lot to readers as well.

Thank you Jenny for stopping by. And I'm eagerly looking forward to your next book!

Queen of Secrets by Jenny Meyerhoff

2010-07-12T22:22:00.003-05:00

Release Date: Available Now from Farrar, Straus, & Giroux

Source: From Publicist

Synopsis:

This is the year that Essie Green's life is going to be different. Now that she's made the cheerleading squad--and even managed to catch the eye of hunky Austin King, captain of the football team--she's positive that sophomore year is going to be one to remember. So what if her best friend thinks that Austin is bad news, or if Essie doesn't always feel at home with her new crowd? Those are things Essie can deal with.

What she might not be able to deal with is Micah, the football team's newest member. Awkward and not too friendly, Micah is instantly branded the freak of the team for wearing a kippah and praying during games. And Essie doesn't want anything to do with him. Unfortunately for her, he just happens to be her estranged cousin--and the person who may hold the key to uncovering one of Essie's family's long-lost secrets. Essie hates hiding the fact that they're related, especially from Austin, but if she tells the truth, won't everyone think she's a religious freak, too? When the football team's teasing of Micah gradually shifts into hazing, Essie is forced to make a choice. Do her loyalties lie with the boy she thinks she might love or with the cousin she barely knows?

Loosely based on the Book of Esther, Queen of Secrets is the engrossing story of family, first love, and a girl's struggle to do what is right.

Tomorrow, my blog will be hosting a visit from the oh-so-awesome Jenny Meyerhoff, so I figured now was as good a time as any to let you know what I thought of the book. Yeah, I loved it. It wasn't what I expected when I first heard about the book. I'm not sure what I thought it was, but I was pleasantly surprised when I sat down and started reading.

Essie is a fantastic character. She loves her life and her friends, but what's so wrong about wanting to try something new? We've all been guilty of trying to fit in at some point in our lives. It's hard to know sometimes how far to take it. Essie has all of those same emotions that many if not all of us have faced. She chooses what to tell and more importantly not tell her new friends, so that she can remain in their group. Hiding her true self becomes harder and harder as the story continues. Meyerhoff has done a wonderful job of putting us in Essie's head. It's easy for the reader to understand why she does the things she does, simply because we are seeing it through her eyes. One of my favorite elements of the book was watching Essie and Micah become reacquainted as cousins. It's not always easy when it comes to family, but Meyerhoff has given us an honest portrayal of family bonds tested over time.

It's a beautifully written book about finding the courage to be yourself and to share yourself with the world. It takes a lot of courage to put yourself out there and Essie finds that courage with a little help from the people around her.

Read it now, and come back tomorrow for more Jenny Meyerhoff!

The Tension of Opposites by Kristina McBride

2010-07-11T23:18:00.002-05:00

Release Date: Available Now from EgmontUSA

Source: From Publisher

Synopsis:

When Tessa's best friend Noelle disappears right before the start of eighth grade, Tessa's life changes completely--she shies away from her other friends and stops eating in the cafeteria. Now, two years later, Noelle has escaped her captivity and is coming home, in one piece but not exactly intact, and definitely different. Tessa's life is about to change again as she tries to revive the best-friendship the two girls had shared before Noelle--now Elle--was kidnapped; puts up a futile resistance to the charming new guy at school; pursues her passion for photography while trying to build the bravado to show her photos to the public; and tries to balance her desire to protect and shelter Elle with the necessity to live her own life and put herself first.

This was a great read. It was also a very timely read. It was hard to read this book without thinking about news stories about missing kids who are found years later. When you're thinking about the children being found, it's easy to forget those that were left behind to deal with the loss and now must deal with the return of their loved one. This book perfectly captures those emotions and lets us all in on these troubling events.

Tessa's life basically stopped when her friend Noelle disappeared. She shut herself off from the world around her and from the people around her. Her life and that of the town was changed forever. So when Noelle reappears, we see Tessa trying to figure out how to live again, while dealing with her friend who is not the Noelle she remembers.

It can be a heartbreaking read at times. Rather than focus on Noelle, McBride tells us Tessa's story. We get to see Tessa slowly come back to life and let people in once again. I really enjoyed this book. It grabbed my attention from page one and held it until I turned the last page. It's an absolutely amazing debut. I'm thinking 2010 is a great years for Debs. I can't wait to read more from this talented new voice in YA.

In My Mailbox (59)

2010-07-10T21:55:00.002-05:00

As always, In My Mailbox is brought to you by Kristi, AKA The Story Siren.

Extremely slow week for me this time around, but that it okay, because I've been devouring the Pretty Little Liars books all week. I'm taking a break with Nightshade right now, which is AMAZING so far.

For Review:

Wicked Girls

Release Date: Available Now from Balzer & Bray

Synopsis:

What started out as girls' games became a witch hunt. Wicked Girls is a fictionalized account of the Salem witch trials told from the perspectives of three of the real young women living in Salem in 1692.

Ann Putnam Jr. plays the queen bee. When her father suggests that a spate of illnesses within the village is the result of witchcraft, Ann grasps her opportunity. She puts in motion a chain of events that will change the lives of the people around her forever.

Mercy Lewis, the beautiful servant in Ann's house, inspires adulation in some and envy in others. With a troubled past, she seizes her only chance at safety.

Margaret Walcott, Ann's cousin, is desperately in love and consumed with fiery jealousy. She is torn between staying loyal to her friends and pursuing the life she dreams of with her betrothed.

With new accusations mounting daily against the men and women of the community, the girls will have to decide: Is it too late to tell the truth?

A Printz Honor winner for Your Own, sylvia, Stephanie Hemphill uses evocative verse to weave a nuanced portrait of one of the most chilling and fascinating times in our nation's history.

I've already read and reviewed this one and it was fabulous!!

Purchased:

Wanted by Sara Shepard

To Nook Or To Kindle? That Is The Question!

2010-07-08T22:53:00.005-05:00

Okay folks, I have a decision to make. In the past, I've been vehemently against the e-reader phenomenon. I just love the smell, and feel of good ol'fashioned books. However, we bought my mom a Kindle for Christmas and I've become extremely jealous of it over the past few months. I think it would be a good move for me since books are taking over my life and more importantly my room. I'll still buy books, of course, but those titles I only want to read once and don't feel the need to collect...I'll download. So, which should I get?

Barnes & Noble Nook

Amazon Kindle

Many of you already have one or the other. I'm interested in the availability of MG and YA fiction and also just how you feel about which is better. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Feel free to chime in!!

Wicked Girls: A Novel of the Salem Witch Trials by Stephanie Hemphill

2010-07-07T23:27:00.002-05:00

Release Date: Available Now from Blazer & Bray

Source: From Publisher

Synopsis:

What started out as girls' games became a witch hunt. Wicked Girls is a fictionalized account of the Salem witch trials told from the perspectives of three of the real young women living in Salem in 1692.

Ann Putnam Jr. plays the queen bee. When her father suggests that a spate of illnesses within the village is the result of witchcraft, Ann grasps her opportunity. She puts in motion a chain of events that will change the lives of the people around her forever.

Mercy Lewis, the beautiful servant in Ann's house, inspires adulation in some and envy in others. With a troubled past, she seizes her only chance at safety.

Margaret Walcott, Ann's cousin, is desperately in love and consumed with fiery jealousy. She is torn between staying loyal to her friends and pursuing the life she dreams of with her betrothed.

With new accusations mounting daily against the men and women of the community, the girls will have to decide: Is it too late to tell the truth?

A Printz Honor winner for Your Own, sylvia, Stephanie Hemphill uses evocative verse to weave a nuanced portrait of one of the most chilling and fascinating times in our nation's history.

Yet another novel in verse. I have to say that I love, love, love them. I find myself getting just as swept up in the story as I do with any other novel, it's just that I can race to the finish even more quickly. This book, however, is one to savor. I found myself turning back to favorite passages and reading them over and over.

The Salem Witch Trials have always been an interesting subject to me. It's so frightening to think about this type of hysteria taking over a community and leading to such awful events. It's happened again and again throughout history, but I think Salem is one of the worst cases and one that is the hardest to digest.

This novel is about that hysteria, but at the heart, it's about mean girls, peer pressure, and taking a cruel idea way too far. I've been reading the Pretty Little Liars books, and crazy as it sounds, many of those same these appear in that series; bored little girls just trying to be heard in their community and making those around them miserable. It just goes to show that not much has changed in the last 300 or so years.

This is an incredibly rich and powerful read. I was concerned when I started the book that I wouldn't be able to keep the girls separate while reading, but they each have such different voices that it was easy to know who's speaking without even glancing at the name. Hemphill has a true gift. She's taken real life, horrific events and put them into a context where we can almost see where these girls were coming from. The story races on and the tension builds throughout, until the reader is swept into this madness plaguing 17th century Salem. Beautifully written, this is a book to be treasured.

Waiting on Wednesday (70)--Jane by April Lindner

2010-07-06T20:41:00.005-05:00

Release Date: October 11, 2010 from Poppy

Synopsis:

Forced to drop out of an esteemed East Coast college after the sudden death of her parents, Jane Moore takes a nanny job at Thornfield Park, the estate of Nico Rathburn, a world-famous rock star on the brink of a huge comeback. Practical and independent, Jane reluctantly becomes entranced by her magnetic and brooding employer and finds herself in the midst of a forbidden romance.

But there's a mystery at Thornfield, and Jane's much-envied relationship with Nico is soon tested by an agonizing secret from his past. Torn between her feelings for Nico and his fateful secret, Jane must decide: Does being true to herself mean giving up on true love?

An irresistible romance interwoven with a darkly engrossing mystery, this contemporary retelling of the beloved classic Jane Eyre promises to enchant a new generation of readers.

I love Jane Eyre. It's the one classic that I remember really enjoying in school. And I think it's about time someone gave this awesome book an update. This sounds fabulous!! I don't think that's the finished cover, but it's all I could find.

Pretty Little Liars by Sara Shepard

2010-07-05T19:17:00.004-05:00

Release Date: Available Now from HarperTeen

Source: Personal Collection

Synopsis:

Everyone has something to hide--especially high school juniors Spencer, Aria, Emily, and Hanna.

Spencer covets her sister's boyfriend. Aria's fantasizing about her English teacher. Emily's crushing on the new girl at school. Hanna uses some ugly tricks to stay beautiful. But they've all kept an even bigger secret since their friend Alison vanished.

How so I know? Because I know everything about the bad girls they were, the naughty girls they are, and all the dirty secrets they've kept. And guess what? I'm telling. ----A

This book sat on my shelves for years and I never found time to read it, but when I watched the first episode of the new series on ABC Family, I knew I had to give it a try. I like the show, but I figured the books would be much better, and I was right. This is a great first book in a series. A first book has to give you all the background without getting boring, and it has to keep you wanting more after you turn the last page. Pretty Little Liars did that, and so much more.

I just really enjoyed reading about these girls and their drama. It's like being in on A's game. We get to see all the bad things these girls have done, while watching them slowing fall to pieces before our eyes. It's pretty damn fun. I think Emily is my favorite character. She never sets out to hurt anyone and she seems like the girl I would've hung with in high school.

As I said, I do like the series, but already I'm seeing where it's deviating from the books. I know it's hard to follow the books perfectly, but at least try people. The books just have so much more to offer. I'm still reading them, by the way. I'm up to number 5, so you'll most likely see more reviews coming. I'll try not to be too spoilery.

If you haven't watched the series, give it a try. If you haven't read the books, seek them out now!

Contest Winners!!

2010-07-04T22:27:00.002-05:00

The winner of the Sea Change contest is:

Katelyn

The winner of the And Then I Found Out The Truth/Jennifer Sturman contest is:

Bookworm

Congrats to you both. I'll be sending you e-mails shortly, get back to me as soon as you can and I'll pass your addresses along to the publicists.

In My Mailbox (58)

2010-07-03T22:06:00.005-05:00

As always, In My Mailbox is brought to you by Kristi, AKA The Story Siren.

For Review:

Almost To Die For by Tate Hallaway

Release Date: August 3, 2010 from NAL Trade

Synopsis:

Twilight meets The Princess Diaries in the new series from the author of Honeymoon of the Dead

On her sixteenth birthday, Anastasija Parker learns that her so-called deadbeat dad is actually a vampire king. And he wants Ana to assume her rightful position at his side, in spite of the fact that she has witch's blood running through her veins-from her mother's side.

Too bad witches and vampires are mortal enemies. And now Ana's parents are at each other's throats over her future. It's up to Ana to make a choice, but deciding your eternal destiny is a pretty big deal for a girl who just wants to get through high school.

Tyger Tyger: A Goblin Wars Book by Kersten Hamilton

Release Date: November 10, 2010 from Clarion

Synopsis:

Teagan Wylltson's best friend, Abby, dreams that horrifying creatures--goblins, shape-shifters, and beings of unearthly beauty but terrible cruelty--are hunting Teagan. Abby is always coming up with crazy stuff, though, so Teagan isn't worried. Her life isn't in danger. In fact, it's perfect. She's on track for a college scholarship. She has a great job. She's focused on school, work, and her future. No boys, no heartaches, no problems.

Until Finn Mac Cumhaill arrives. Finn's a bit on the unearthly beautiful side himself. He has a killer accent and a knee-weakening smile. And either he's crazy or he's been haunting Abby's dreams, because he's talking about goblins, too . . . and about being The Mac Cumhaill, born to fight all goblin-kind. Finn knows a thing or two about fighting. Which is a very good thing, because this time, Abby's right. The goblins are coming.

Nightshade by Andrea Cremer

Release Date: October 19, 2010 from Philomel

Synopsis:

Calla Tor has always known her destiny: After graduating from the Mountain School, she'll be the mate of sexy alpha wolf Ren Laroche and fight with him, side by side, ruling their pack and guarding sacred sites for the Keepers. But when she violates her masters' laws by saving a beautiful human boy out for a hike, Calla begins to question her fate, her existence, and the very essence of the world she has known. By following her heart, she might lose everything including her own life. Is forbidden love worth the ultimate sacrifice?

All of these were unexpected but most welcome. I'm especially pumped to have finally gotten a copy of Nightshade. It looks so amazing!!

Purchased:

DVD
The Crazies (I actually really liked this movie and I think Timothy Olyphant is pretty dreamy.)

Books
Feed by Mira Grant
The Ghost and the Goth by Stacey Kade
Killers by Sara Shepard
Heartless by Sara Shepard
Legacies by Mercedes Lackey and Rosemary Edghill
Wicked Girls by Stephanie Hemphill

and last, but definitely not least,

Linger by Maggie Stiefvater!!!! (I know, right?! It's not supposed to be out until the 20th and it's not even on Amazon yet. Check your Borders, though, mine had a big ol' stack)!!

Glimpse by Carol Lynch Williams

2010-07-02T17:39:00.003-05:00

Release Date: Available Now from Simon & Schuster

Source: Personal Copy

Synopsis:

In one moment

it is over.

In one moment
it is gone.
The morning grows
thin, grey
and our lives-
how they were-
have vanished.
Our lives have
changed
when I walk in
on Lizzie
my sister
holding a shotgun.

Twelve year old girl Hope's life is turned upside down when her older sister Lizzie becomes an elective mute and is institutionalized after trying to kill herself. Ever since their dad died Hope and Lizzie have relied on each other from a young age. Their mother is a reluctant and unreliable parent at best, who turns tricks to support the family. Throughout the course of this lyrical and heartbreaking narrative readers and Hope discover that the mother is prostituting Lizzie and it's up to Hope to bring the truth to light to save her sister.

With raw and haunting writing reminiscent of Ellen Hopkins and Elizabeth Scott, Carol Lynch Williams is a promising new YA voice.

This was a truly powerful book that I found it impossible to put down. I read it in a matter of hours and although parts of it were hard to read, I had to finish this book and follow these characters. It definitely made me think of the works of Ellen Hopkins in the best possible way.

I always admire authors like Hopkins, and now Williams for telling such a complete story in relatively few words. I can't imagine how hard it is to put these types of stories into prose, let alone in verse. I had no doubt that this author could do that though, because I loved her novel The Chosen One; another powerful read.

Williams does an amazing job here. I was immediately pulled into the troubled world of Hope and Lizzie. Their's is a disturbing story, but an important one all the same. What I loved most about the book, though, was that beneath the sadness, there's an overwhelming feeling of hope. You can't help but feel for these girls and want them to succeed in life.

A really amazing read!!

ghostgirl: Lovesick trailer

2010-06-30T22:12:00.000-05:00

I think this trailer is pretty awesome. I love this series, too!! I have the new book, but haven't gotten around to it yet, but after watching this, I'm thinking I need to move it up in the TBR pile!

Waiting on Wednesday(69)--The Replacement by Brenna Yovanoff

2010-06-29T22:22:00.004-05:00

Release Date: September 21, 2010 from Razorbill

Synopsis:

Mackie Doyle is not one of us. Though he lives in the small town of Gentry, he comes from a world of tunnels and black murky water, a world of living dead girls ruled by a little tattooed princess. He is a Replacement left in the crib of a human baby sixteen years ago. Now, because of fatal allergies to iron, blood, and consecrated ground, Mackie is fighting to survive in the human world.

Mackie would give anything to live among us, to practice on his bass or spend time with his crush, Tate. But when Tate's baby sister goes missing, Mackie is drawn irrevocably into the underworld of Gentry, known as Mayhem. He must face the dark creatures of the Slag Heaps and find his rightful place, in our world, or theirs.

Edward Scissorhands meets The Catcher in the Rye in this wildly imaginative and frighteningly beautiful horror novel about an unusual boy and his search for a place to belong.

I've always been fascinated by the idea of changelings, so this one sounds amazing to me!! Also, who can resist that comparison, "Edward Scissorhands meet The Catcher in the Rye?" How awesome does that sound?!

And Then I Found Out the Truth by Jennifer Sturman

2010-06-28T21:09:00.004-05:00

Release Date: July 1, 2010 from Point

Source: From Publisher

Synopsis:

Delia Truesdale is still searching for the truth about her mother, who is in hiding somewhere in South America. But for now, Delia has to make do with her mystery-solving in New York City, alongside her Aunt Charley (a downtown hipster), her Aunt Patience(an uptown ice queen), a detective with a questionable taste in neckties, an eccentric psychic, her brainiac friend, and Quinn, the wealthy, gorgeous boy who--gasp!-- seems to return Delia's affections. Too bad Quinn's shady CEO dad may be involved in the scheme Delia is trying to crack. And a trip to South America may be in order after all...

I really loved the first book in this series, And Then Everything Unraveled, and I think this one is as good if not better than the first. We get another wonderful dose of Delia, a heroine who I could read about all day every day. She's fun and daring and willing to do anything to reunite with her mother.

The wonderful cast of characters that were introduced in the first book are all back and wackier than ever. My favorite characters are Delia's aunt Charley and private detective Rafe. They are a joy to read about and even better, I could totally hang with them.

These two books are fantastic! I love the humor, the mystery, and of course the romance, but what gets me the most is the heart. Delia cares about the people in her life and is willing to fight for them. That's what kept me reading well into the night. I wanted Delia to find answers and happiness and I couldn't stop reading until she did.

An amazing follow-up to an equally amazing book! Check these out!!

Iron King Contest Winner!!

2010-06-27T22:19:00.002-05:00

The winner of the Iron King giveaway is:

Meredith

Congrats, Meredith!! I'll be sending you an e-mail shortly so please send me your address as soon as you can and I'll forward it on to the publicist.

Summer Break Reading Challenge Activity #2

2010-06-27T00:40:00.002-05:00

The Hungry Cities Chronicles by Philip Reeve

In My Mailbox (57)

2010-06-27T00:07:00.006-05:00

As always, In My Mailbox is brought to you by Kristi, AKA The Story Siren.

For Review:

The Space Between Trees by Katie Williams

Release Date: Available Now from Chronicle Books

Synopsis:

Not your everyday coming-of-age novel

This story was supposed to be about Evie how she hasn't made a friend in years, how she tends to stretch the truth (especially about her so-called relationship with college drop-out Jonah Luks), and how she finally comes into her own once she learns to just be herself but it isn't. Because when her classmate Elizabeth "Zabet" McCabe's murdered body is found in the woods, everything changes and Evie's life is never the same again.

The Season of Risks by Susan Hubbard (2nd Copy)

Release Date: July 6, 2010 from Simon & Schuster

Synopsis:

The vampire sects are at war—and war among vampires is fought not with weapons, but with minds.
My name is Ariella Montero, and I know a secret. Telling it will change everything.

Half-human and half-vampire, Ari confronts the darker sides of vampirism, and herself, as the sects deploy new technologies to battle for influence and power.

But beyond these challenges lie greater risks: Ari’s relationship with Neil Cameron, the first vampire to run for the U.S. presidency, must be kept under wraps from even those she trusts most. When scandal inevitably erupts, Ari is forced to face the consequences of her actions, learning the hard way that love demands delicate negotiations between memory and desire.

Dear Dylan by Siobhan Curham

Release Date: Available Now from Authorhouse

Synopsis:

Fourteen year old Georgie Harris feels as if the summer holidays are over before they have even begun. Banned from going to the local drama workshop by her bully of a step-dad and her increasingly fragile mum she is consigned to sic long weeks of babysitting her kid sister. Sick of feeling like the outsider at home and at school, she starts emailing the one person she thinks might understand; Dylan Curtland, star of the popular soap opera Jessop Close. And when Dylan starts emailing back Georgie finally feels a spark of hope. At last she has someone who really gets her, someone who really wants to help. But in the faceless world of email all is not as it seems...
Molly Fyde and the Blood of Billions by Hugh Howey

Release Date: Available Now from Broad Reach Publishing

Synopsis:

It's been ten years since Molly last set foot on her birth planet, and this isn't how she'd imagined her homecoming. The sky is full of an invading fleet, one powerful enough to threaten the entire galaxy. The new family she has come to rely on -- her crew of alien misfits and runaways -- are scattered in three directions. As they struggle to reunite, events beyond their control seem to be driving more than just them apart: the universe itself may be torn asunder if the bond between these unlikely heroes is broken.

Purchased:

Glimpse by Carol Lynch Williams
Unbelievable by Sara Shepard
Wicked by Sara Shepard
The Unofficial Guide: The Color Companion to Walt Disney World by Bob Sehlinger

ANGELFIRE by Courtney Allison Moulton (YA Book Trailer)

2010-06-26T15:52:00.000-05:00

The Wolves of Mercy Falls: A Stop Motion trailer for Linger

2010-06-25T22:27:00.000-05:00

This is so amazing!! Can't wait for Linger!

Guardian of the Gate trailer

2010-06-25T22:19:00.000-05:00

Contest on my sister's blog!

2010-06-25T00:41:00.002-05:00

My sister is a crocheting freak, and she's working on a little creature to give away on her blog. Here's the link to the contest and some early images of her project. Check it out!!

Ivy's Ever After by Dawn Lairamore

2010-06-24T22:01:00.003-05:00

Release Date: Available Now from Holiday House

Source: From Publicist

Synopsis:

A frothy, fractured fairy tale filled with humor and high adventure!

Long ago in the kingdom of Ardendale, the Dragon Treaty had been signed to protect the dragon herds and lure gallant young princes to the remote kingdom to marry its princesses. Since then, when a royal princess turns fourteen, she is locked in a tower guarded by a dragon to await rescue by a handsome prince. But feisty Princess Ivy doesn't care to be rescued; and Elridge, an under-sized, peace-loving dragon who's better at solving puzzles than breathing fire, certainly doesn't care to be slain. Princess and dragon join forces, setting off on a perilous journey across the Craggie Mountains. Can they overcome hungry trolls, hypnotic swamp sprites, and fairyland magic in their quest to escape their dire fates? Fast paced and fun, Ivy's Ever After offers a lighthearted twist on the classic fairy tale.

It's always the books that it takes me forever to get around to that truly blow me away. Then I have to think...why did it take me so long to read this?! That is, of course, the case with Ivy's Ever After. It's been sitting on my shelves for a couple months now, and I finally picked it up earlier this week. I finished it in two days, and that's while completely cleaning and reorganizing my room. Once I started reading, I couldn't stop thinking about the book until I finished it (at 2am a couple nights ago).

This is an adorable read. It has all the elements of a classic fairy tale, but then it shakes things up and takes that classic tale in a whole new direction. Ivy is a wonderful heroine. She's not your average princess. She'd rather be outside running around with her friends, the stable boy and the daughters of the kitchen staff, than sitting with her nursemaid, Tildy, learning all those things a good princess should know. Ivy has no use for embroidery, etiquette, or fancy dresses. When she finds out she's to be locked in a tower at fourteen, Ivy's world is turned upside down. It's like everyone around her has gone mad, because they can't fathom why she's upset at the prospect of spending, potentially, her whole life waiting for some prince to save her. Ivy doesn't want to be dependent on any prince to determine her fate.

Enter Elridge, who's pretty helpless at being a dragon. When the two meet, you just know they're going to be kindred spirits. Their adventures together as they try to save Ivy's kingdom and her future are truly exciting. All those magical creatures we've come to know and love are present and accounted for, but they might just be a little different than you remember them.

This was a fun read from start to finish. I just loved Ivy and I'm hoping that we'll get to read more about Ivy and Elridge in the future. Lairamore has created an exciting world that I know I'll want to return to again and again. Check this one out....I think you'll like it!

Summer Reading Challenge Reading Wish List!

2010-06-23T23:14:00.003-05:00

Okay, for the reading challenge, I'd like to get to the following books:

Pretty Little Liars (books 2-8)

Raised by Wolves by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

The Space Between Trees by Katie Williams

Shadow Hills by Anastasia Hopcus

Incarceron by Catherine Fisher

Tomorrow When the War Began by John Marsden

This Gorgeous Game by Donna Freitas

A Web of Air by Philp Reeve

Guardian of the Gate by Michelle Zink

Okay, that's all I can think of for now and I think that's a pretty lofty goal. I really need to buckle down and get reading.

Summer Break Reading Challenge!!

2010-06-23T23:07:00.002-05:00

I'm trying to do some major catch-up reading this summer. I have to go back to work on August 3rd, so I only have a little over a month left to read, read, read. I figured taking part in Karin's (of Karin's Book Nook) Summer Reading Challenge would help to motivate me a little more.

If you'd like more info about the challenge, you can find it on the blog.

I have a lot of books to read, and the hardest part is fitting review books in while still finding time to read those books that have been sitting on my shelf for awhile (AKA Pretty Little Liars series, which I am quickly becoming hooked on). Here's hoping I get as much reading done as I'd like.

Waiting on Wednesday (68)--Virals by Kathy Reichs

2010-06-22T23:10:00.003-05:00

Release Date: November 2, 2010 from Razorbill

Synopsis:

Tory Brennan, niece of acclaimed forensic anthropologist Temperance Brennan (of the Bones novels and hit TV show), is the leader of a ragtag band of teenage Òsci-philesÓ who live on a secluded island off the coast of South Carolina. When the group rescues a dog caged for medical testing on a nearby island, they are exposed to an experimental strain of canine parvovirus that changes their lives forever.

As the friends discover their heightened senses and animal-quick reflexes, they must combine their scientific curiosity with their newfound physical gifts to solve a cold-case murder that has suddenly become very hotÑif they can stay alive long enough to catch the killerÕs scent.

Fortunately, they are now more than friendsÑ theyÕre a pack. They are Virals.

I'm a big fan of Kathy Reichs adult mysteries and of the show Bones, so I'm very excited that she's moving into the YA realm. I'm hoping that this one is as much of a pageturner as the Tempe books.

Read All About It! by Laura Bush and Jenna Bush Hager, Illustrated by Denise Brunkus

2010-06-21T22:31:00.002-05:00

Release Date: Hardcover Available Now; In Paperback June 22, 2010 from Harpercollins

Source: From Publisher

Synopsis:

A classroom adventure that will have readers racing to the shelves, from Mrs. Laura Bush and her daughter Jenna!

Tyrone rules the school!

He's king of the monkey bars, a math machine, and a science whiz.

The only thing he doesn't like about school is reading. It's so boring! But when strange visitors start dropping by the classroom during story hour, Tyrone discovers there's more to books than just words on pages.

This is the perfect book for a school library! I loved this book the first time I read it, when it originally came out in hardcover and I loved it even more when it came in the mail and I gave it another read.

It's an adorable book and it truly captures how magical books can be. Reaching a kid like Tyrone is why I do what I do. It's so amazing to be able to get a reluctant reader hooked on books and it only takes one to really show them what they've been missing.

Say what you will about the Bushes (I know I have), Laura Bush cares about books and libraries. When you read this, you can see the school teacher/librarian that she used to be. It's a great read and one that I'll be using, probably as my welcome back to school book in the fall.

The amazing illustrations by Denise Brunkus, Junie B. Jones illustrator, help, too. Picture books are nothing without an illustrator and this book shows one at the top of her game. Definitely recommended!!

In My Mailbox (56)

2010-06-19T23:37:00.004-05:00

As always, In My Mailbox is brought to you by Kristi, AKA The Story Siren.

The following list all arrived while I was in California. I always seem to get books when I'm out of town. This week, I got zip, zero, nada, but that's okay, my shelves are full.

For Review:

Summer Reading Box from HarperTeen including:

As Easy as Falling Off the Face of the Earth by Lynne Rae Perkins

The Carrie Diaries by Candace Bushnell

The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting

Radiant Shadows by Melissa Marr

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

The Reckoning by Kelley Armstrong

Hourglass by Claudia Gray

Spells by Aprilynne Pike

Early to Death, Early to Rise by Kim Harrison

One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia

Queen of Secrets by Jenny Meyerhoff

Burned by PC & Kristin Cast

Seth Baumgartner's Love Manifesto by Eric Luper

Touch by Francine Prose

Sea Change by Aimee Friedman

Manifest by Artist Arthur

Read All About It by Laura Bush and Jenna Bush Hager

Purchased:

Perfect by Sara Shepard

Flawless by Sara Shepard

My Soul To Keep by Rachel Vincent

Lifted by Wendy Toliver

Nomansland by Lesley Hauge

A Love Story Starring My Dead Best Friend by Emily Horner

So, that's what I've picked up lately. I can't wait to see what everyone else got this week.

Brontë Sisters Power Dolls

2010-06-19T04:20:00.000-05:00

This is pretty freakin' awesome!!

Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine

2010-06-17T22:50:00.003-05:00

Release Date: Available Now from Philomel

Source: From Author

Synopsis:

In Caitlin's world, everything is black and white. Anything in between is confusing. That's the stuff her brother, Devon, always explained. But now Devon is dead, and her father cries a lot. She wants to help her dad--and herself!--but as a ten-year-old girl with Asperger's syndrome, she doesn't know how.

She turns to textbooks and dictionaries, easy for Caitlin because they;re full of facts in black and white. After reading the definition of Closure, Caitlin knows this is just what she and her father need. And she is determined to find it. In her search, she discovers that not everything is really black and white--the world is full of colors, messy and beautiful. And perhaps if she "Works At It," Caitlin and her father can have Closure and Empathy, too.

A warm and loving book that gives young readers a rare glimpse of a very special world and a brave and very special girl.

What a powerful book. It's small in length and in overall size, but it packs a powerful punch and stays with you long after you turn the last page. In my first year as a media specialist in an elementary school, I was exposed to at least one child who has Asperger's. It can be a challenging thing to deal with and I could see that the child was separated somewhat from their classmates. I've never known a lot about Asperger's, but this book was an invaluable learning tool, and I know it would help my students understand their classmate better.

Caitlin is a fascinating little girl who is brutally honest and sees that world in very literal terms. I love the fact that the book is written completely from her point of view. It really put me in the mindset of Caitlin and it was easy for me to see how she sees the world and also the struggles, both internal and external, that she faces from day to day.

The background of the story makes it seem like it'll be a sad read, but it actually turned out to be one of the most uplifting books I've read in quite a long time. It was just a feel-good read, and made me smile repeatedly while I was reading. Of course, there were some touching moments and a few tears might be shed throughout the reading, but overall, when I finished the book I felt hopeful and happy. This book also pays tribute to the classic novel To Kill a Mockingbird. That's storyline is blended so seamlessly with the story of Caitlin and Devon. It's really done beautifully.

Erskine has a true gift. You can see through her writing how much she cares about the subject matter. I also love the fact that Caitlin's counselor is such an integral part of the story and of Caitlin's life. My school has a wonderful counselor and they really are the unsung heroes of schools. Our counselor never falters no matter what gets thrown her way and our school and students couldn't even begin to function without her. Caitlin's counselor, Mrs. Brook, works with her tirelessly. She never gets frustrated, but constantly urges Caitlin to try harder and to go beyond what she believes she can do. It's a wonderful, true portrait of a relationship that goes on in schools across the country day after day.

I can't wait to read more from Erskine. I can't think of a book that that captures the true spirit of To Kill a Mockingbird more than Kathryn Erskine's Mockingbird. I can't recommend this book highly enough. It's one that I know I will read over and over again and it'll probably be the first book I buy for my school's shelves in the fall. It's an important read and one that I won't soon forget.

Waiting on Wednesday (67)--Revolution by Jennifer Donnelly

2010-06-16T22:34:00.003-05:00

Release Date: October 12, 2010 from Delacorte Books for Young Readers

Synopsis:

BROOKLYN: Andi Alpers is on the edge. She’s angry at her father for leaving, angry at her mother for not being able to cope, and heartbroken by the loss of her younger brother, Truman. Rage and grief are destroying her. And she’s about to be expelled from Brooklyn Heights’ most prestigious private school when her father intervenes. Now Andi must accompany him to Paris for winter break.

PARIS: Alexandrine Paradis lived over two centuries ago. She dreamed of making her mark on the Paris stage, but a fateful encounter with a doomed prince of France cast her in a tragic role she didn’t want—and couldn’t escape.

Two girls, two centuries apart. One never knowing the other. But when Andi finds Alexandrine’s diary, she recognizes something in her words and is moved to the point of obsession. There’s comfort and distraction for Andi in the journal’s antique pages—until, on a midnight journey through the catacombs of Paris, Alexandrine’s words transcend paper and time, and the past becomes suddenly, terrifyingly present.

Jennifer Donnelly, author of the award-winning novel A Northern Light, artfully weaves two girls’ stories into one unforgettable account of life, loss, and enduring love. Revolution spans centuries and vividly depicts the eternal struggles of the human heart.

Doesn't his look amazing? And A Northern Light was fabulous, so how could I not completely want this book?!

Countdown Winner!!

2010-06-15T23:22:00.002-05:00

The winner of a copy of Deborah Wiles amazing Countdown and a canvas Countdown tote is:

Dawn

Congrats Dawn, I've sent you an e-mail, so please get back to me as soon as you can.

Deception Winners!!

2010-06-15T23:13:00.002-05:00

The winners of a copy each of Lee Nichols awesome book, Deception are:

californiameaghan

The Book Pixie

Congrats Ladies!! I've sent an e-mail your way, so get back to me as soon as you can.

Sea Change Paperback Release Giveaway!!!

2010-06-14T22:21:00.004-05:00

Synopsis:

Sixteen-year-old Miranda Merchant is great at science...and not so great with boys. After major drama with her (now ex) boyfriend, she's happy to be spending the summer on small, mysterious Selkie Island, helping her mother sort out her late grandmother's estate.

On the lush, beautiful island, Miranda finds new friends and a community with a mystical history, presenting her with facts her logical, scientific mind can't make sense of. She also meets Leo, who challenges everything she thought she knew about boys, romance...and reality.

Is Leo hiding something? Or is he something that she never could have imagined?

Would you like to learn more about Sea Change? Find your answers here.

What can you win?

Hit the beach with this Sea Change prize pack!

One winner receives:

Handmade bamboo beach mat and a paperback copy of Sea Change!

Contest is open to the US only and runs until June 29th, AKA the night I'll be headed to the midnight show of Eclipse, with my Twilight-crazed buddies!

To enter, simply leave a comment below with your e-mail address.

Back in Town!!

2010-06-13T21:04:00.001-05:00

Hello all!!

I am back in Missouri, but feeling pretty miserable. I have an ear infection and let me tell you, ear infections and multiple altitude changes?....they just don't mix. So, I've got some antibiotics and I'm hoping to be back up to full speed soon.

As often happens when I leave the state, I got a ton o'books this week, so I'll share my IMM post sometime this week belatedly.

Back soon....when I can move my head without piercing pain. Oh, my sister and I did listen to The Host on audio during our epically long journey. I'll share my thoughts on it soon.

The Iron King Giveaway!!

2010-06-10T09:18:00.002-05:00

One lucky winner will receive:

Treat the faery creature in you to something magical and mysterious with a $25 Visa Gift Card and a copy of The Iron King!

Here's the books official website if you'd like to learn more.

Check out the book trailer:

In My Mailbox (55)

2010-06-06T00:01:00.000-05:00

As always, In My Mailbox is brought to you by Kristi, AKA The Story Siren.

I'm actually in LA right now basking in the Disneyland magic with my cousin and my sister, so I'm writing this on Wednesday night before we hit the road. This is what I got last week and this week.

For Review:

Insatiable by Meg Cabot

Release Date: June 8, 2010 from William Morrow

Synopsis:

Sick of hearing about vampires? So is Meena Harper.

But her bosses are making her write about them anyway, even though Meena doesn't believe in them.

Not that Meena isn't familiar with the supernatural. See, Meena Harper knows how you're going to die. (Not that you're going to believe her. No one ever does.)

But not even Meena's precognition can prepare her for what happens when she meets—then makes the mistake of falling in love with—Lucien Antonescu, a modern-day prince with a bit of a dark side. It's a dark side a lot of people, like an ancient society of vampire hunters, would prefer to see him dead for.

The problem is, Lucien's already dead. Maybe that's why he's the first guy Meena's ever met whom she could see herself having a future with. See, while Meena's always been able to see everyone else's future, she's never been able look into her own.

And while Lucien seems like everything Meena has ever dreamed of in a boyfriend, he might turn out to be more like a nightmare.

Now might be a good time for Meena to start learning to predict her own future. . . .

If she even has one.

Half Way Home by Hugh Howey

Release Date: Available Now from Broad Reach Publishing

Synopsis:

Less than sixty kids awaken on a distant planet. The colony ship they arrived on is aflame. The rest of their contingent is dead. They've only received half their training, and they are being asked to conquer an entire planet. Before they can, however, they must first survive each other. In this gritty tale of youths struggling to survive, Hugh Howey fuses the best of young adult fantasy with the piercing social commentary of speculative fiction. The result is a book that begs to be read in a single sitting. An adventurous romp that will leave readers exhausted and begging for more.

Ten Unusual Features of Lulu McDann by Kelly Pulley

Release Date: July 1, 2010 from Frog Legs Ink

Synopsis:

Miss Lulu McDunn, with her ten unusual features, will not only make you laugh but warm you heart as she teaches a lesson all children should learn, to celebrate the things that make us unique.

The Jaguar Stones, Book One: Middleworld by J & P Voelkel

Release Date: Available Now from Egmont USA

Synopsis:

“As I see it,” said Max, “all that stands between humankind and the end of the world is two talking monkeys, a crazy archaeologist covered in red paint, and a couple of kids with blowguns. Am I right?”

Fourteen-year-old Max Murphy, video-gamer extraordinaire, is furious when his archaeologist parents cancel the family vacation to go on a dig in Central America. But things go from bad to worse when Max is summoned to join them, only to discover that his parents have vanished. With the help of Lola, a fast-talking, quick-thinking Maya girl, Max embarks on a quest to find out just what’s going on. Soon Max and Lola are running for their lives in the perilous rainforest, as they unlock ancient secrets, meet mysterious strangers, and begin to understand that, in San Xavier, nothing is ever as it seems.

Fate has delivered a challenge of epic proportions to Max Murphy. But can a teen whose biggest talent is for video games rescue his parents from the Maya Underworld and save himself from the villainous Lords of Death?

Purchased:

Nothing....aren't you proud of me?!

Ten Unusual Features of Lulu McDunn by Kelly Pulley

2010-06-05T00:01:00.000-05:00

Release Date: July 1, 2010 from Frog Legs Ink

Source: From Publisher

Synopsis:

Miss Lulu Dunn, with her ten unusual features, will not only make you laugh but warm your heart as she teaches a lesson all children should learn, to celebrate the things that make us unique.

I've been trying to keep more up to date with picture books, especially since I'm in an elementary library. I think it's important to find new, different books that will reach the students. It's so much easier for me to choose young readers, middle grade, or young adult, but with picture books, I tend to struggle. There are just so many great titles out there, it's hard to know what to choose.

This is another of those great titles. Lulu McDunn is different from other people and this book show you exactly why she's so different and in the end, exactly why those differences don't matter.

This is a great book for teaching kids to embrace what's unique about them and also to accept what's unique about others. It's full of wonderfully eye-catching illustrations and is written in verse, which I know for a fact that kids love. It was an easy read and would be a great quick read aloud with a lot of potential for lessons.

This one is highly recommended and come fall, I'll be buying a copy to share with my students.

My Blog's Been Hijacked by Lauren Mechling!!

2010-06-04T00:01:00.000-05:00

Hello book (blog) lover!

Lauren Mechling, author of the Dream Girl books, here. I have hijacked Carrie's blog in order to convey some Very Important Information.

You might not know it by looks alone (no pink hair, no metal bar through my septum), but I've become a total hacker worthy of her own "Dragon Tattoo" installment. And I'm not just talking about how I've cracked the code and broken onto Carrie's YA Bookshelf. My new book MY DARKLYNG, which I co-wrote with Laura Moser (my hilarious co-author on the "10th Grade Social Climber" books), is a YA thriller chockablock with multimedia awesomeness that will be appearing in serialized form on the awesome website Slate.com. The first installment runs today, and there will be more excitement every Friday for the rest of the summer. Also: it's free!

Slate is calling MY DARKLYNG its "juicy summer read for vampire lovers (and haters!)." It's about a normal 10th grade girl named Natalie Pollock whose own fiction addiction gets her into major trouble. She's been reading Fiona St. Claire's yummy "Dark Shadows" book series since middle school and when she sees a post on Fiona's blog about an open casting call for the model for the next book's cover, well, she can't resist. What she had thought was just a random field trip turns into a dark and terrible new-best-friendship, scarier and more thrilling than any of Fiona St. Claire's vampire novels.

MY DARKLYNG is different from anything you've ever read before--it's a first-of-its-kind story told in simultaneous platforms. Huh? you ask. Okay, so here's the deal: While you are perfectly free to follow the MY DARKLYNG chapters on Slate and leave it at that, we have been milking the magic world of the Internet for all its worth. Why limit a story to mere words? What about pictures and videos and weird Tweets and scary Facebook wall posts that bring texture to the story and bring the characters to life? With that in mind, we found real (and really awesome) teenagers to play our characters. Here's a picture:

Pretty, right? Expect to get to know these faces really well over the course of this book.

Without further ado, this is the Slate page that will host the chapters.

Here is Natalie's Facebook page--well worth "liking" so you can follow when weird things start happening on it.
Natalie's Twitter page is here.
Fiona's (the vampire writer) Twitter page is here.
Natalie's best friend Jenna tweets here.
James (the vampire model) tweets here.
And Fiona's loving sister Tilly uses this Twitter page.

Natalie and Jenna post Youtube videos here. Here's a sample video that shows them getting ready for the audition that will change their lives:

Now YOU can help make our great experiment in Internet fiction even more amazing. There is an upcoming scene that has a missing detail. We need to come up with a movie that Natalie and her friends all go to this June. Again, we are desperately seeking A SUGGESTION FOR A NEW MOVIE THAT 16 YEAR OLD GIRLS WOULD GO TO. Please write in your suggestions in the comments section. The winner will be chosen in a week and featured in MY DARKLYNG--if your answer is selected, it'll be like the story is actually winking at you from the screen.

I know this is all a bit much to wrap your head around. Sorry for any confusion--just read the first installment and take it from there. Please please post comments or send us emails telling us how you're finding the series. We can be reached by my website.

And if you find yourself feeling afraid, don't say I didn't warn you!

your humble hacker,
Lauren Mechling

Waiting on Wednesday on Thursday( The It's My Birthday and I'll Blog If I Want To Edition) (66)--The Duff by Kody Keplinger

2010-06-03T00:01:00.000-05:00

Release Date: September 7, 2010 from Poppy

Synopsis:

Seventeen-year-old Bianca Piper is cynical and loyal, and she doesn't think she's the prettiest of her friends by a long shot. She's also way too smart to fall for the charms of man-slut and slimy school hottie Wesley Rush. In fact, Bianca hates him. And when he nicknames her "Duffy," she throws her Coke in his face.

But things aren't so great at home right now. Desperate for a distraction, Bianca ends up kissing Wesley. And likes it. Eager for escape, she throws herself into a closeted enemies-with-benefits relationship with Wesley.

Until it all goes horribly awry. It turns out that Wesley isn't such a bad listener, and his life is pretty screwed up, too. Suddenly Bianca realizes with absolute horror that she's falling for the guy she thought she hated more than anyone.

This sounds amazing and I don't know why, but I really love that cover. Looking forward to reading this one!

And Then Everything Unraveled by Jennifer Sturman + Giveaway!!

2010-06-02T00:01:00.000-05:00

Release Date: Available Now from Point

Source: From Publicist

Synopsis:

Delia Truesdale has no idea her life's about to change forever. She's too busy enjoying the California summer. Her internet tycoon mother, T.K. Truesdale, is out of town, and that means Delia can spend all her time at the beach, surfing. That is, until everything unravels.

Her mother suddenly goes missing, and everyone thinks she's dead - except Delia, who knows T.K.'s way too organized to simply disappear. But Delia's still sent to New York to live with her two aunts - a downtown bohemian and an uptown ice queen.

And in case that's not bad enough, she also has to deal with a snooty new school and trying not to fall for the wrong guy. Oh, and finding her mother.

As she delves deeper into the tangle of conspiracies and lies surrounding T.K.'s disappearance, Delia begins to suspect that the wrong guy may be the right guy...and that some secrets - especially the dangerous ones - were never meant to be unraveled.

This book is FANTASTIC!! I could really just leave it at that, but I'll give you a few reasons why. First of all, it's a great mystery, which if your a reader of my blog you know I love a good mystery and I'm always happy when a new YA mystery comes on the scene. This book isn't necessarily new, but the sequel is soon to be released. I'm reading that one right now actually.

Another reason this book rocks, Delia Truesdale herself. She's fabulous!! She's completely uprooted from her life in California and yet she bravely faces New York City with nary a complaint. She's someone I would've hung out with in high school. Her family and supporting cast and equally as cool. I love Delia's aunt Charley, especially her love of '80s movies and takeout. I also love Natalie who's too smart for her own good, but who never questions Delia's instincts...well, almost never.

I just thoroughly enjoyed this read. In fact, I enjoyed it so much that I immediately started reading the second book. I don't usually read series one right after the other, but I just had to know what happened next.

If you'd like to experience the fabulous Delia Truesdale for yourself, I've been offered a copy of this book, the sequel And Then I Found Out the Truth, and a cool little Magic 8 Ball key chain to give to one lucky winner.

To enter, simply leave a comment below which includes your e-mail address.

The contest is open to US residents only and ends on June 30.

Deception: A Haunting Emma Novel by Lee Nichols + Giveaway!!

2010-06-01T00:01:00.000-05:00

Release Date: June 8, 2010 from Bloomsbury USA Children's Books

Source: From Publicist

Synopsis:

When Emma Vaile's parents disappear on a mysterious business trip, her life begins to unravel. The eerie visions she had as a child return, her best friend abandons her, and a new friend notifies social services that she is living alone. Enter Bennett Stern, her older brother's best friend and Emma's knight in J. Crew armor. Bennett whisks Emma away to New England to live in his family's museum-like mansion and attend Thatcher, and old-fashioned private school.

Emma makes friends with the popular legacy crowd quickly and spends her free time crushing on Bennett. But the haunting visions are only getting worse. Emma has memories of Thatcher she can't explain--it's as if she's returning home to a place she's never been. Bennett finally confides that he and Emma are ghostkeepers, people who can communicate with ghosts. He's been keeping Emma close to protect her, but now Bennett needs her help tracking an other-worldly murderer.

Mystery, tradition, and forbidden romance make Deception the perfect read for fans of series like Kate Brian's Private and paranormal fans.

I'm so glad that synopsis mentioned the Private series, because I couldn't help but be reminded of that series while reading Deception. That's a good thing though, trust me, the Private series is one of the few "rich kid" series that I can handle, so the similarities were much enjoyed.

Deception is a fun read. You'd think by now, with all the paranormal books filling the YA market, that I would have seen or read it all. Each time I think I'm starting to get tired of paranormals, along comes another enjoyable read like Deception and it pulls me back in. I love a good ghost story to begin with, and this one puts a whole new spin on the creepy haunted mansion thing.

I have to admit that the characters are one thing that made this such a joy to read. I really love Emma. I think she's a fantastic character who's trying to work her way through a tough situation. First her parents go missing, then she starts seeing things, has to face some hard truths about herself, and most horrifyingly, ends up in a private school with a bunch of snobby snobs. She remains relatively cool throughout though. I just really relished reading and learning more about this character. She's flawed, fun, and completely down to earth.

I definitely recommend Deception. It was one of those nice little surprises that I'm really glad I picked up and read. I look forward to the next book, in what I'm assuming is going to be a series. I can't wait to see what challenges Emma has to face next, or what new secrets she uncovers.

If you'd like to enter Emma's world yourself, I've been offered two copies of Deception to give away to two lucky readers.

If you'd like to enter, simply leave a comment below including your e-mail address. The contest is open to the U.S. only, and ends on June 14th.

Be On The Lookout For....

2010-05-27T22:02:00.002-05:00

Sisters Red by Jackson Pearce

I was shopping at Borders tonight, because that's what I do, and I squealed when I saw this on the shelves. It's not officially due out until the 7th of June, so I wasn't even looking for it. It's available on Amazon, too.

Countdown by Deborah Wiles Review and Giveaway!!

2010-05-26T00:01:00.001-05:00

Release Date:

Synopsis:

Countdown is the first in a new trilogy of “documentary novels” set in the 1960s- a fascinating historical documentary in a unique style and format. Filled with photos, news clippings, and songs of the era, this novel tells the story of Franny Chapman, an eleven-year-old girl living in Washington , DC , set against the backdrop of one of the most politically and culturally defining periods in history.

It’s 1962, in the days surrounding the Cuban Missile Crisis, and the world seems to be on the terrifying brink of nuclear war. But for Franny Chapman, everyday life goes on. While doing “Duck and Cover” drills at school, Franny must face tensions with her younger brother, and worry about her older sister— is she a secret spy?— while learning to look beyond outward appearances.

I actually bought this book shortly after it came out. As soon as I saw it, I knew it had to be mine, so imagine how very happy I was when I was contacted to giveaway a copy of this most awesome book. As mentioned above, it's a "documentary novel," which means it's basically like reading a living history book. It's filled with wonderful photos, quotes, and interesting facts about real people. While at the same time, it's this beautiful coming of age story about one little girl living during the Cuban missile crisis.

Franny is an incredibly character with a family that is going through some changes. When I was reading the book, I couldn't help but be reminded of one of my other favorite characters from children's literature, Sally J. Freedman. Starring Sally J. Freedman As Herself by Judy Blume was my favorite book when I was younger. I read it over and over and like this story, it was about a girl growing up during a very trying time in history. If you haven't read it....you definitely should. Franny has all those characteristics that I loved and admired so much in Sally. They would be the best of friends I'm sure.

I can't being to tell you how awesome this book is. It's unlike anything I've read before. It's an inventive and intriguing piece of storytelling and best of all, it includes a little history about my fave President, President Harry S. Truman who just so happens to have been born and lived in my little hometown. Give 'em hell Harry!! In fact, it includes lots of history about lots of people. This is a great book to teach kids about history, a subject that seems to get ignored more and more in schools today.

Read this book! I don't think you'll be disappointed, I know I wasn't. It had me from hello (or page one).

If you'd like to try it for yourself, I've been offered a copy to give away here on my blog. In addition, you'll win a cool Countdown branded canvas tote, which sounds completely kickass. I'm totally jealous of the tote.

You can enter to win simply by leaving a comment below. If you want to tell me who your fave president is, or what your fave era in history is, that would be totally cool, too.

The contest is open to the US only and ends on June 9, so enter soon!!

If you'd like to read more about Countdown, you can find the website here. And if you'd like to know more about author Deborah Wiles, you can find her here.

Countdown by Deborah Wilesgreat free widgetsWidgetboxMore info

Waiting on Wednesday (65)--Rot and Ruin by Jonathon Maberry

2010-05-25T21:09:00.002-05:00

Release Date: October 5, 2010 from Simon & Schuster's Children Publishing

Synopsis:

A teenager grows up in a post-apocalypic, zombie-infested America in Jonathan Maberry's Rot & Ruin.

Yep, that's all I could find and then I saw this little review blurb:

"George Romero meets The Catcher in the Rye in this poignant and moving coming of age novel set during zombie times. I welled up at the end, then smiled through my tears when I realized there was going to be a sequel. Bravo, Jonathan Maberry. Can't wait to read more."
-- Nancy Holder, New York Times bestselling author of Wicked and Possessions

Hellz yeah! Romero and Salinger?! What could be better. Can't wait!!!

Infinity Release Information and Trailer!!

2010-05-24T18:52:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow is the launch date for Infinity, book one in the Chronicles of Nick series by Sherilyn Kenyon. My sister is a huge fan of Kenyon's Dark Hunter series and this is an introduction into one of these characters.

Here's a little teaser:

"At fourteen, Nick Gautier thinks he knows everything about the world around him. Streetwise, tough and savvy, his quick sarcasm is the stuff of legends. . .until the night when his best friends try to kill him."

Sounds good, eh? If you'd like to read the first chapter, you can find it here.

Or check out the trailer below.

Like the trailer music? Download the song here.

I'm looking forward to this one....at least now I'll know what the heck my sister's been talking about all these years.

Magickeepers, Book Two: The Pyramid of Souls by Erica Kirov

2010-05-23T21:59:00.003-05:00

Release Date: Available Now from Sourcebooks Jabberwocky

Source: From Publicist

Synopsis:

It was stolen from Alexander the Great. To keep it safe, Edgar Allen Poe bargained away his sanity. And somebody suckered P. T. Barnum to get their hands on it. It's the most closely guarded secret in the magician community. And it's missing.

What would you do to protect your family from an ancient pyramid capable of stealing your very soul?

Nick Rostov finally has the life he's always dreamed-and he'll do anything to protect it.

Nick has only now discovered he is part of an extended Russian family of magicians: the Magickeepers. He lives with his eccentric new relatives at the Winter Palace Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, where they perform daring feats of magic to a packed house. Real magic.

But Nick and his family face a new danger in the form of a stolen relic, the Pyramid of Souls. The tiny pyramid has traded hands many times throughout history. Its power can steal a magician's very soul.

Nick knows who took it: Rasputin, leader of the Shadowkeepers. Using his unique ability as a Gazer-one who can see into the past-Nick enlists his cousin Isabella to help him find it. Soon, the two are hot on the evil sorcerer's trail...until Isabella's soul is trapped by the very relic they're trying to find.

Nick will do anything to rescue Isabella and recover the Pyramid of Souls. But will it be enough to save his family?

Usually I'm really anal about reading series in order, because I hate to feel like I'm playing catch up when I start a book. It's hard as a review blogger, though to find the time to go back and start a series from book one. There just aren't enough hours in the day. So, I really love it when a book can stand on its own two feet and is a complete story in and of itself. Enter The Pyramid of Souls by Erica Kirov. At no time while reading this little gem of a novel did I feel lost or out of touch with what was happening. It was oh so easy to just dive in and get to know the characters as they experienced their own adventures. Thank you Erica Kirov!!

This is a great book. It's written for a more middle grade audience, but I think it would appeal to anyone. It's got a wonderful blend of magic, history, and adventure that kept me turning the pages. It's also set in Las Vegas, a city that I love, so that added to my enjoyment. I could totally see the Winter Palace Hotel and Casino blending in perfectly with the over-the-top Vegas skyline. I think this magical family would feel right at home in the world of Caesar's Palace, Sigfried & Roy, and Circus Circus.

Kirov has created a wonderfully believable magical world with a likable hero, Nick Rostov. Nick's really wants to fit in with his newfound extended magical family, but that's hard to do when you are dodging some evil magicians and trying to perfect your magic for the casino's big show at the same time.

This was a quick read that I truly enjoyed. I'm looking forward to finding the time for the first book in the series. I'll be adding these titles to my school library shelves in the fall. I think the kids will totally dig them.

In My Mailbox (54)

2010-05-22T22:30:00.013-05:00

As always, In My Mailbox is brought to you by Kristi, AKA The Story Siren.

I am keyboarded up again and back to blogging. So here's what I picked up this week:

For Review:

Deception by Lee Nichols

Release Date: June 8, 2010 from Bloomsbury USA Children's Books

Synopsis:

When Emma Vaile's parents leave on mysterious business trip, it gives her the perfect excuse to be a rebellious teen. Throw some parties, get a tattoo (or maybe just a piercing), and enjoy the first few weeks of her junior year. Then her best friend stops talking to her, the cops crash her party, and Emma finds herself in the hands of a new guardian—her college-age "knight in J.Crew armor," Bennett Stern—and on a plane to his museum-like mansion in New England.
After enrolling at Thatcher Academy, Emma settles in by making friends with the popular legacy crowd. But she can't shake the strange visions that are haunting her. She has memories of Thatcher she can't explain, as if she's returning home to a place she's never been. Emma doesn't trust anyone anymore—except maybe Bennett. But he's about to reveal a ghostly secret to Emma. One that will explain the visions . . . and make Emma fear for her life.

Shadow Hills by Anastasia Hopcus

Release Date: July 13, 2010 from EgmontUSA

Synopsis:

After her sister Athena's tragic death, it's obvious that grief-stricken Persephone "Phe" Archer no longer belongs in Los Angeles. Hoping to make sense of her sister's sudden demise and the cryptic dreams following it, Phe abandons her bubbly LA life to attend an uptight East Coast preparatory school in Shadow Hills, MA -- a school which her sister mysteriously mentioned in her last diary entry before she died.

Once there, Phe quickly realizes that something is deeply amiss in her new town. Not only does Shadow Hills' history boast an unexplained epidemic that decimated hundreds of its citizens in the 1700s, but its modern townies also seem eerily psychic, with the bizarre ability to bend metal. Even Zach -- the gorgeous stranger Phe meets and immediately begins to lust after -- seems as if he is hiding something serious. Phe is determined to get to the bottom of it. The longer she stays there, the more she suspects that her sister's untimely death and her own destiny are intricately linked to those who reside in Shadow Hills.

Siren by Tricia Rayburn

Release Date: July 13, 2010 from EgmontUSA

Synopsis:

Seventeen-year-old Vanessa Sands is afraid of everything--the dark, heights, the ocean--but her fearless older sister, Justine, has always been there to coach her through every challenge. That is until Justine goes cliff diving one night near the family's vacation house in Winter Harbor, Maine, and her lifeless body washes up on shore the next day.

Vanessa's parents want to work through the tragedy by returning to their everyday lives back in Boston, but Vanessa can't help feeling that her sister's death was more than an accident. After discovering that Justine never applied to colleges, and that she was secretly in a relationship with longtime family friend Caleb Carmichael, Vanessa returns to Winter Harbor to seek some answers.

But when Vanessa learns that Caleb has been missing since Justine's death, she and Caleb's older brother, Simon, join forces to try to find him, and in the process, their childhood friendship blossoms into something more.
Soon it's not just Vanessa who is afraid. All of Winter Harbor is abuzz with anxiety when another body washes ashore, and panic sets in when the small town becomes home to a string of fatal, water-related accidents . . . in which all the victims are found grinning from ear to ear.

As Vanessa and Simon probe further into the connections between Justine's death and the sudden rash of creepy drownings, Vanessa uncovers a secret that threatens her new romance, and that will change her life forever.

The Tension of Opposites by Kristina McBride

Release Date: May 25, 2010 from EgmontUSA

Synopsis:

When Tessa's best friend Noelle disappears right before the start of eighth grade, Tessa's life changes completely--she shies away from her other friends and stops eating in the cafeteria. Now, two years later, Noelle has escaped her captivity and is coming home, in one piece but not exactly intact, and definitely different. Tessa's life is about to change again as she tries to revive the best-friendship the two girls had shared before Noelle--now Elle--was kidnapped; puts up a futile resistance to the charming new guy at school; pursues her passion for photography while trying to build the bravado to show her photos to the public; and tries to balance her desire to protect and shelter Elle with the necessity to live her own life and put herself first.

Raised by Wolves by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Release Date: June 8, 2010 from EgmontUSA

Synopsis:

Adopted by the Alpha of a werewolf pack after a rogue wolf brutally killed her parents right before her eyes, fifteen-year-old Bryn knows only pack life, and the rigid social hierarchy that controls it. That doesn't mean that she's averse to breaking a rule or two.

But when her curiosity gets the better of her and she discovers Chase, a new teen locked in a cage in her guardian's basement, and witnesses him turn into a wolf before her eyes, the horrific memories of her parents' murders return. Bryn becomes obsessed with getting her questions answered, and Chase is the only one who can provide the information she needs.

But in her drive to find the truth, will Bryn push too far beyond the constraints of the pack, forcing her to leave behind her friends, her family, and the identity that she's shaped?

The Rise of Renegade X by Chelsea Campbell

Release Date: Available Now from EgmontUSA

Synopsis:

Sixteen-year-old Damien Locke has a plan: major in messing with people at the local supervillain university and become a professional evil genius, just like his supervillain mom. But when he discovers the shameful secret she's been hiding all these years, that the one-night stand that spawned him was actually with a superhero, everything gets messed up. His father's too moral for his own good, so when he finds out Damien exists, he actually wants him to come live with him and his goody-goody superhero family. Damien gets shipped off to stay with them in their suburban hellhole, and he has only six weeks to prove he's not a hero in any way, or else he's stuck living with them for the rest of his life, or until he turns eighteen, whichever comes first.

To get out of this mess, Damien has to survive his dad's "flying lessons" that involve throwing him off the tallest building in the city--despite his nearly debilitating fear of heights--thwarting the eccentric teen scientist who insists she's his sidekick, and keeping his supervillain girlfriend from finding out the truth. But when Damien uncovers a dastardly plot to turn all the superheroes into mindless zombie slaves, a plan hatched by his own mom, he discovers he cares about his new family more than he thought. Now he has to choose: go back to his life of villainy and let his family become zombies, or stand up to his mom and become a real hero.

The Healing Spell by Kimberley Griffiths Little

Release Date: July 1, 2010 from Scholastic

Synopsis:

Twelve-year-old Livie is living with a secret and it's crushing her. She knows she is responsible for her mother's coma, but she can't tell anyone. It's up to her to find a way to wake her momma up.

Stuck in the middle of three sisters, hiding a forbidden pet alligator, and afraid to disappoint her daddy, whom she loves more than anyone else, Livie struggles to find her place within her own family as she learns about the powers of faith and redemption. Livie's powerful, emotional, and sometimes humorous story will stay with readers long after the last line is read.

Set in the lush bayou of Louisiana, Kimberley Griffiths Little brings Livie's story to life with power and grace.

And Then Everything Unraveled by Jennifer Sturman

Release Date: Available Now from Point

Synopsis:

Delia Truesdale has no idea her life's about to change forever. She's too busy enjoying the California summer. Her internet tycoon mother, T.K. Truesdale, is out of town, and that means Delia can spend all her time at the beach, surfing. That is, until everything unravels.

Her mother suddenly goes missing, and everyone thinks she's dead - excpet Delia, who knows T.K.'s way too organized to simply disappear. But Delia's still sent to New York to live with her two aunts - a downtown bohemian and an uptown ice queen.

And in case that's not bad enough, she also has to deal with a snooty new school and trying not to fall for the wrong guy. Oh, and finding her mother.

As she delves deeper into the tangle of conspiracies and lies surrounding T.K.'s disappearance, Delia begins to suspect that the wrong guy may be the right guy...and that some secrets - especially the dangerous ones - were never meant to be unraveled.

And Then I Found Out the Truth by Jennifer Sturman

Release Date: July 1, 2010 from Point

Synopsis:

Delia Truesdale is still searching for the truth about her mother, who is in hiding somewhere in South America. But for now, Delia has to make do with her mystery-solving in New York City, alongside her Aunt Charley (a downtown hipster), her Aunt Patience(an uptown ice queen), a detective with a questionable taste in neckties, an eccentric psychic, her brainiac friend, and Quinn, the wealthy, gorgeous boy who--gasp!-- seems to return Delia's affections. Too bad Quinn's shady CEO dad may be involved in the scheme Delia is trying to crack. And a trip to South America may be in order after all...

Purchased:

Mermaid Park by Beth Mayall
Glimmerglass by Jenna Black
The Clearing by Heather Davis

So that's what I got this week!! Can't wait to see what everyone else picked up....

Computer Fail!

2010-05-21T21:19:00.001-05:00

I can't post anything significant tonight, because for some reason my keyboard has decided to die on me. I have no idea why it isn't working, but that's just the way my day has gone. I will be back to posting as soon as I am up and running on my own computer again.

The Gardener by S.A. Bodeen

2010-05-19T21:04:00.004-05:00

Release Date: May 25, 2010 from Feiwel and Friends

Synopsis:

Mason has never known his father, but longs to. All he has of him is a DVD of a man whose face is never seen, reading a children’s book. One day, on a whim, he plays the DVD for a group of comatose teens at the nursing home where his mother works. One of them, a beautiful girl, responds. Mason learns she is part of a horrible experiment intended to render teenagers into autotrophs—genetically engineered, self-sustaining life-forms who don’t need food or water to survive. And before he knows it, Mason is on the run with the girl, and wanted, dead or alive, by the mysterious mastermind of this gruesome plan, who is simply called the Gardener.

Will Mason be forced to destroy the thing he’s longed for most?

A real page-turner, this book kept me reading way into the night. Too late actually, I was quite tired for work on Monday, because I just couldn't put this one down. It's a quick read that's full of a lot of action and I loved racing with the characters to the ending.

As for the characters, I absolutely adored Mason. He has his own demons, but he's always willing to help a damsel, or anyone else, in distress. He's that guy that you would've secretly had a crush on in high school, or at least, I would've anyway. I love how he immediately takes to this mysterious girl with an even more mysterious past. He just decides to help her and doesn't stop until he makes sure she's okay.

S. A. Bodeen has written a very thoughtful novel about what can happen when we try too hard to solve the world's problems. Sometimes we go a little too far and end up causing more harm than good. I totally enjoyed this book. My only complaint was that it was too short. It was so readable I just wanted to keep right on turning those pages even after I turned the last one. I would love for her to return to this world someday and catch up with where these characters are now. I think there's definitely more story to tell.

Waiting on Wednesday (64)--Immortal Beloved by Cate Tiernan

2010-05-18T21:13:00.003-05:00

Release Date: September 7, 2010 from Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Synopsis:

Nastasya has spent the last century living as a spoiled, drugged-out party girl. She feels nothing and cares for no one. But when she witnesses her best friend, a Dark Immortal, torture a human, she realizes something's got to change. She seeks refuge at a rehab for wayward immortals, where she meets the gorgeous, undeniably sexy Reyn, who seems inexplicably linked to her past.

Nastasya finally begins to deal with life, and even feels safe--until the night she learns that someone wants her dead.

Cate Tiernan, author of the popular Sweep series, returns with an engaging story of a timeless struggle and inescapable romance, the first book in a stunning new fantasy trilogy.

I loved Tiernan's Sweep series, so I was very excited to see this one on the horizon. Can't wait!!

Streams of Babel by Carol Plum-Ucci

2010-05-16T20:37:00.002-05:00

Release Date: Available Now from Graphia

Source: Personal Collection

Synopsis:

Bioterrorism has come to a small town in New Jersey. Two residents die of brain aneurysms within twenty-four hours and several teens become ill with a mysterious flu, leading the government to suspect that a terrorist cell has unleashed a deadly biochemical agent. With each glass of water they drink, the people of Trinity Falls are poisoning themselves.

A world away in Pakistan, a sixteen year old computer genius working as a spy for the U.S. sees an influx of chatter from extremists about a substance they call Red Vinegar that will lead to many deaths. Can he warn the victims before it’s too late?

I picked this one up because I saw the synopsis for the sequel Fire Will Fall, which was recently released. I figured I needed some major back story before delving into that one, so I hunted down a copy of Streams of Babel. I'm so glad I took the time to read this book first. It's a real page-turner that made me want to keep reading and reading to find out what happened next.

It's a pretty terrifying concept really and one that is not completely outside the realm of possibility in the world today. This is something that could totally happen and we'd be pretty powerless to stop it. I think that's what made this story so intriguing. It was a scary read, but an important one at the same time. A few times I told myself "you probably shouldn't be reading this," but I kept turning the pages anyway, ready for whatever new horror awaited me.

The points of view change with each chapter as they rotate through the characters, which helped to make this a quick read and it kept the story new and interesting. I've always like books with varying points of view, so I'm hoping the sequel uses the same style. I really recommend this one. It's a wonderful thriller and gives the reader a new look at the post 9/11 world and the dangers we face. It's not all about the fear though, we also get to see characters overcoming obstacles to help one another and finding inner strength to fight unseen enemies. There's a lot of hope in Streams of Babel, which made this a ride worth taking.

Now I am definitely looking forward to finding time for Fire Will Fall.

In My Mailbox (53)

2010-05-15T23:08:00.002-05:00

As always, In My Mailbox is brought to you by Kristi, AKA The Story Siren.

I haven't done an IMM post in weeks, so this will be my catch up post. No pictures, just titles and authors. It's a lengthy list, so hang in there. Sorry if I repeat anything, but that's just how long it's been.

For Review:

Tha Magickeepers Book Two: The Pyramid of Souls by Erica Kirov
The Poison Diaries by Maryrose Wood
The Summer of Skinny Dipping by Amanda Howells
The Society of S by Susan Hubbard
The Year of Disappearances by Susan Hubbard
The Season of Risks by Susan Hubbard
Delcroix Academy: The Candidates by Inara Scott
Guardian of the Gate by Michelle Zink

Purchased:

Restoring Harmony by Joelle Anthony
Dark Life by Kat Falls
Countdown by Deborah Wiles
Faithful by Janet Fox
Solving Zoe by Barbara Dee
Prophecy of Days by Christy Raedeke
The Cupcake Queen by Heather Hepler
White Cat by Holly Black
Lies by Michael Grant
Shade by Jeri Smith-Ready
Spells by Aprilynne Pike
Dead in the Family by Charlaine Harris
The Red Pyramid by Rick Riordan
A Blue So Dark by Holly Schindler
The Academy Year One: Flight of the Outcast by Brad Strickland
Also Known As Harper by Ann Haywood Leal
Fearless by Tim Lott
Time of the Witches by Anna Myers
The Year of the Bomb by Ronald Kidd
Worldshaker by Richard Harland
The Demon's Covenant by Sarah Rees Brennan
Leaving Paradise by Simone Elkeles
Each Little Bird that Sings by Deborah Wiles
Love, Ruby Lavender by Deborah Wiles
Ship Breaker by Paolo Bacigalupi

Okay, so that's it. That's what happens when I go to a Scholastic warehouse sale, go to Borders and B&N too many times, and also make a visit to Half-Price books. My list continues to grow, but I just can't help myself.

Barrie Summy Giveaway!!

2010-05-13T18:23:00.005-05:00

Check out this awesome giveaway that Barrie Summy is doing.

Author Barrie Summy is hosting a giveaway of her fun mystery series! One Grand Prize winner will receive autographed copies of the three books in the series, I SO DON'T DO MAKEUP, I SO DON'T DO SPOOKY, and I SO DON'T DO MYSTERIES, plus a tote bag and t-shirt! Three lucky runners up will win an autographed copy of I SO DON'T DO MAKEUP and a t-shirt!

To enter, send an email to ISoDontDoMakeup@gmail.com (note: no apostrophe!) with the subject line "Pick Me!" In the body of the email, include your name and email address (if you're under 13, submit a parent's name and email address). One entry per person and prizes will only be shipped to US or Canadian addresses. Entries must be received by midnight (PDT) on June 30. Winners will be selected in a random drawing on July 1 and notified via email. Check Barrie's website after July 6 for the list of winners!

I recently reviewed I So Don't Do Makeup and I thorougly enjoyed it....so hurry up and enter!!

Waiting on Wednesday (63)--Wicked Girls: A Novel of the Salem Witch Trials by Stephanie Hemphill

2010-05-11T21:09:00.002-05:00

Release Date: June 29, 2010 from Balzer & Bray

Synopsis:

Wicked Girls is a fictionalized account of the Salem witch trials based on the real historical characters, told from the perspective of three young women living in Salem in 1692—Mercy Lewis, Margaret Walcott, and Ann Putnam Jr.

When Ann’s father suggests that a spate of illnesses within the village is the result of witchcraft, Ann sees an opportunity and starts manifesting the symptoms of affliction. Ann looks up to Mercy, the beautiful servant in her parents' house. She shows Mercy the power that a young girl is capable of in a time when women were completely powerless. Mercy, who suffered abuse at the hands of past masters, seizes her only chance at safety. And Ann’s cousin Margaret, anxious to win the attention of a boy in her sights, follows suit. As the accusations mount against men and women in the community, the girls start to see the deadly ramifications of their actions. Should they finally tell the truth? Or is it too late to save this small New England town?

I've always been fascinated by the Salem Witch trials, so I am anxiously awaiting this one. It looks fantastic and I love the cover.

Dark LIfe by Kat Falls

2010-05-10T19:31:00.002-05:00

Release Date: Available Now from Scholastic

Source: Personal Collection

Synopsis:

Set in an apocalyptic future where rising oceans have swallowed up entire regions and people live packed like sardines on the dry land left, DARK LIFE is the harrowing tale of underwater pioneers who have carved out a life for themselves in the harsh deep-sea environment, farming the seafloor in exchange for the land deed.

The story follows Ty, who has lived his whole life on his family's homestead and has dreams of claiming his own stake when he turns eighteen. But when outlaws' attacks on government supply ships and settlements...

... threaten to destroy the underwater territory, Ty finds himself in a fight to stop the outlaws and save the only home he has ever known.

Joined by a girl from the Topside who has come subsea to look for her prospector brother, Ty ventures into the frontier's rough underworld and begins to discover some dark secrets to Dark Life.

As Ty gets closer to the truth, he discovers that the outlaws may not be the bloodthirsty criminals the government has portrayed them as. And that the government abandoning the territory might be the best thing for everyone, especially for someone like Ty, someone with a Dark Gift.

I've always been fascinated, or maybe terrified by the ocean. I blame it on my lack of swimming knowledge and also a viewing of Jaws when I was probably too young to be watching Jaws. Now, I'm drawn to underwater imagery and movies like The Abyss. I don't know why I like these things. I think underwater movies and images have an almost claustrophobic feel. The ocean is almost too vast....so vast that it feels very confining. So, when I heard about this book, I was instantly interested. A post-apocalyptic book set in the very depths of the ocean?! What could be better?!

This was a great read. I read a couple of mixed reviews of it, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. I think Kat Falls captured the feeling of the deep perfectly. I still got that claustrophobic feel that The Abyss gives me, but I was mesmerized by the imagery and intrigued by the story.

Ty is a great character. My only complaint is that I wanted to know more about his life under the sea. We get glimpses and descriptions of how they live, but I wanted more. This is one of those reads that made me think, "where do they come up with this stuff"? Ty's world is incredible and actually makes me want to dive into the ocean and hang out for awhile. In fact, I didn't want to leave Ty's world. This is one of those instances when I would have been fine with 100 more pages.

I'm hoping that there's a sequel or companion book on the way. I'd love to read more about the world above the sea where Gemma's from. It sounds pretty interesting and almost as scary as the ocean. I recommend this one. It's a great adventure story that takes place in the unlikeliest of worlds.