BookGeeksRule

Classic Tuesday (9) Book and Movie Review, Endgame by Samuel Beckett

2012-02-13T19:40:00.000-08:00

Ifound myself seriously at odds the other day, distraught after watching thefilm Endgame. This film, directed byConor McPherson, really touched me in a way I have never been touched before.While I enjoyed the play, it was not nearly as effective as the film.

SamuelBeckett wrote Endgame in 1956,originally in French. However he later translated it, along with his otherplays, into English. The play opens with Hammand Clov, two men living in a bomb shelter. Hamm is blind and cannot stand,thus he never moves, only sits in his armchair. Clov is his servant, who cannotsit down. The setting is simple; two windows bring in light from the right andleft, with two bins standing in the corner. We later learn that Nagg and Nell, Hamm’s parents, residethere. Nell dies towards the beginning of the play, presumably of old age,leaving only Nagg, Hamm and Clov. It can be assumed that they are the onlysurvivors of a nuclear disaster, as the play was written in 1957 during theCold War. Also, the characters frequently refer to their housing unit as a “shelter”.Clov explains that there is nothing but water outside, as far as the eye cansee, an endless ocean. There is no escape for him. Outside is death.Nevertheless throughout the play Clov wishes to leave, yet he never does, heonly follows Hamm’s demands. The two main characters, Clov and Hamm, argue overthe entire course of the play. It ends as it begins, with Hamm proclaiming, “Oldstancher” as he places a bloody handkerchief over his face.

Ifound reading Endgame to be a verydifficult endeavor. While the writing wasn’t flowery or Shakespearian, itconsists of constant babble. Hamm’s character enjoys hearing himself speak andthere are many times he simply repeats previous statements or talks himself incircles. I also found it hard while reading the play to get a clear visual ofthe characters or the setting. As an actress, I am a firm believer that playsare meant to be watched, not read. Therefore I was much more excited aboutwatching Endgame than reading it.

Thefilm is simply fantastic. It has a stellar cast, which completes the experienceof the play. Sir Michael Gambon, who has starred in Harry Potter and The King’sSpeech, plays Hamm and David Thewis, a prominent actor in Harry Potter and War Horse, plays Clov. The two are the perfect pair for the mainroles. They compliment each other and both bringt excellence to the stage.Gambon brings sense to Hamm’s character, giving him not only a reasonable voicebut also emotion, and Thewis humanizes Clov, presenting him as a very frustratedservant eager to escape. Even Charles Smith (Nagg) and Jean Anderson (Nell)draw emotion from the audience. Others, as well as myself, find them to be apitifully sad, yet adorable couple. Overall, the film creates a sadness in me thatI did not find in the book. The colors used in the setting are dirty blues andoranges, wind can be heard mercilessly in the background and despite thesunlight filtering in though the windows, the setting is desolate and gray. Eventhe meager costumes of the costumes of the characters show the extreme passingof time. Hamm’s gloves are patched and re-patched, and Nagg and Nell wear oldand dusty clothes. Even Nagg and Nell’s hands are black, like they aredecomposing. It was all very eerie and disturbing. Hamm and Clov’s faces aredirty and sweaty, like they had not showered in ages. The characters are filthyand pitiful, as you would expect them to be.

WhileI found this apocalyptic world very intriguing, it was also extremelysickening. This adaptation of Endgame presented me with a glance at the end ofthe world and the end of life. It presents death as an inevitable outcome ofone’s existence. Hamm, Nagg and Clov are the last beings on Earth and each ismiserable because of the lack of point to their lives. Clov wishes to leave andend his life, also ending his misery. This forced me to think about my very ownend of my world, my death. Shamefully I admit I am not like Clov, I wouldrather fight the inevitable than kill myself.

Thisfilm adaptation is magnificent, yet not appropriate for all audiences. For onething, there were no special effects, so any animation fan will not findpleasure in this film. I would suggest Endgame only to those who enjoy classicsor a deep film. Endgame may not have action or romance, but it is a veryemotional ride for audience members because it faces them with the inevitable.It is a film I plan to watch again. Conor McPherson simply outdid himself.

Film Grade-

Play Grade- A-

~Jess

Flippin' Awesome Fan-art/Fanfiction (1)

2012-02-13T14:09:00.000-08:00

I can get a little obsessed with books at times, and I tend to read lots of fanfiction and check out tons of fan-art. I've decided to create a meme so I can weekly post my favorites. Some people have such talent! I love checking out their work!

This week's fanart is by Kara-Lija. I found it on her Deviantart page. Tada! A lovely piece called Firewater, featuring Percy Jackson and Annabeth from the Rick Riordan books!

~Jess

Dearly, Departed

2012-02-09T12:22:00.000-08:00

Love can never die.

Love conquers all, so they say. But can Cupid’s arrow pierce the hearts of the living and the dead—or rather, theundead? Can a proper young Victorian lady find true love in the arms of a dashing zombie?

The year is 2195. The place is New Victoria—a high-tech nation modeled on the manners, mores, and fashions of an antique era. A teenager in high society, Nora Dearly is far more interested in military history and her country’s political unrest than in tea parties and debutante balls. But after her beloved parents die, Nora is left at the mercy of her domineering aunt, a social-climbing spendthrift who has squandered the family fortune and now plans to marry her niece off for money. For Nora, no fate could be more horrible—until she’s nearly kidnapped by an army of walking corpses.

But fate is just getting started with Nora. Catapulted from her world of drawing-room civility, she’s suddenly gunning down ravenous zombies alongside mysterious black-clad commandos and confronting “The Laz,” a fatal virus that raises the dead—and hell along with them. Hardly ideal circumstances. Then Nora meets Bram Griswold, a young soldier who is brave, handsome, noble . . . and dead. But as is the case with the rest of his special undead unit, luck and modern science have enabled Bram to hold on to his mind, his manners, and his body parts. And when his bond of trust with Nora turns to tenderness, there’s no turning back. Eventually, they know, the disease will win, separating the star-crossed lovers forever. But until then, beating or not, their hearts will have what they desire.

Originality- 20/20

OverallEnjoyment- 18/20

Ending- 18/20

Cover-17/20

Characters- 17/20

Total score- 90/100

Grade- A-

Teen

Dearly, Departed is one of the best steam punk/dysotopian/zombie/romance books I have ever read. Then again, it's the only steam punk/dysotopian/zombie/romance book I have ever read. The author did a fantastic job of mixing all the elements together. The zombies were fearsome and the romance was real. Bram and Nora are flawed, yet cute, couple. Obviously because Bram's a zombie and Nora is a human,they have a forbidden love, which seems to be very popular in today's YA lit. However they weren't predictable and their relationship was not an eyesore. In D,D their relationship is not exactly extremely intimate. I'm sure the heat gets turned up in Dearly, Beloved. Habel is creating a crescendo in her series that excites me. I can't wait for the next book! In the meantime be sure to pick up Dearly, Departed. It doesn't disappoint.

~Jess

Wintertown

2012-02-05T09:00:00.000-08:00

Every winter, straight-laced, Ivy League bound Evan looks forward to a visit from Lucy, a childhood pal who moved away after her parent's divorce. But when Lucy arrives this year, she's changed. The former "girl next door" now has chopped dyed black hair, a nose stud, and a scowl. But Evan knows that somewhere beneath the Goth, "Old Lucy" still exists, and he's determined to find her... even if it means pissing her off.

Garden State meets Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist in this funny and poignant illustrated novel about opposites who fall in love.

Originality- 17/20

OverallEnjoyment- 18/20

Ending- 18/20

Cover-16/20

Characters- 20/20

Total score- 89/100

Grade- B+

Teen

I was not expecting to finish Wintertown but it ended upbeing a book I enjoyed for the holiday season. It’s a good winter read becauseit made me feel warm and fuzzy inside, well most of the time. When I didn’tfeel cozy, the story drove hot painful sharps into my stomach. This book wasreal, as real as books can get. If you’ve ever had one of those guy/girl friendrelationships where the awkward possibility of dating gets in the way, you canrelate to Evan and Lucy. Their relationship, borderline friendship andmore-than-friends, is so exceedingly real and messy. This book was not aparticularly happy book. It was gritty, it was raw, and it breathed with simplepoetry. Plus the artwork is classy. It adds some comic relief along the ride.I’m a fan of the new trend of artwork along with the novel. I hope this bookgoes far, it deserves to.

~Jess

Slayers

2012-02-04T11:06:00.000-08:00

Dragons exist. They’re ferocious. And they’re smart: Before they were killed off by slayer-knights, they rendered a select group of eggs dormant, so their offspring would survive. Only a handful of people know about this, let alone believe it – these “Slayers” are descended from the original knights, and are now a diverse group of teens that includes Tori, a smart but spoiled senator’s daughter who didn’t sign up to save the world.

The dragon eggs have fallen into the wrong hands. The Slayers must work together to stop the eggs from hatching. They will fight; they will fall in love. But will they survive?

Originality- 16/20

OverallEnjoyment- 16/20

Ending- 14/20

Cover-18/20

Characters- 14/20

Total score- 78/100

Grade- C

Teen

*SPOILER ALERT*

Take modern super heroes, medieval knights and evil dragons.Mix. Add a splash of salt, and you have Slayers.While the story was a little far-fetched for me, I did like the overall idea.However, I think the plot/characters/etc. could have been executed differently.I was not a fan of Tori, the main character, due to her obnoxiously snobbyattitude and I could not relate to her because she was exceedingly privileged.While I did understand her strive to prove herself to the other slayers, hervoice really bugged me because she only cared about herself. Plus, I was superpissed she received double the powers of the others. I so saw that coming. Therelationships she had with each “captain” was also obvious…I could tell fromthe second she met them she would fall for both of them, thus creating “drama”.Slayers was just very predictable, in a Twilight manner, which is unacceptable. Thisbook had great potential, but it was not made well. I plan on reading the nextbook only in hopes the writing will improve.

~Jess

The International Kissing Club

2012-01-30T13:45:00.000-08:00

Four Best Friends…

Piper, Cassidy, Mei and Izzy are the misfits of Paris, Texas. Too artsy, too determined, too smart and too hip to fit in with the rest of their classmates, they’ve spent most of their sixteen years determined to escape the stifling fishbowl of life in their small Texas town.

One Mean Girl…

Enter Germaine Stewart, mean girl extraordinaire and undisputed queen of Paris High School. Head cheerleader and girlfriend of the coolest guy in school, she’s made it her life’s mission to torture Piper and her friends…a mission that leads, among other things, to Piper kissing a pig in front of the entire school—in her underwear.

Ten Million YouTube Hits…

When the Kiss the Pig video hits YouTube and Facebook there’s nowhere in the entire state of Texas—or America—that Piper can hide. Desperate to escape the pig noises that follow her every waking moment, she becomes an exchange student to the real Paris. Only her friends can’t let her go alone and soon Piper, Mei and Cassidy are heading to different countries for the adventures of their lives, while Izzy is stuck at home.

The International Kissing Club Facebook Page…

To make their time abroad more interesting—the girls form the International Kissing Club, a Facebook fan page where they record each boy they kiss while abroad—or at home, in Izzy’s case (one point for a regular kiss, three for a “transcendent” one).

Too Many Kisses to Count…

But while each girl meets a guy who curls her toes, their twelve weeks on their own teach them a lot more about themselves and their friendship than they ever expected.

Originality- 16/20
OverallEnjoyment- 17/20
Ending- 17/20
Cover-18/20
Characters- 17/20
Total score- 85/100

Grade- B

Teen

I really wanted to love The International Kissing Club.Seeing the world is my new niche and I’m looking forward to traveling in college.However I found this book to be very lacking on the “international” side whileinstead loaded with plenty of “kissing”. I ended up disappointed. That isn’t tosay IKC wasn’t a good book, it was. It just wasn’t a great one.

Let’s start with my compliments. IKC has all therequirements of a short, chick lit book. There is humor, boys, drama and plentyof kisses. Cassidy, Piper, Mei and Izzy are relatable and sweet. Plus they comefrom Texas! Who doesn’t like Texas? It was the perfect hometown setting topick. Plus the ending was great, very funny. I found myself chuckling.

On the other hand, there are many plot lines left open inIKC. I suppose with having four different girls, it would be difficult to writeone ending. Still, I found myself dissatisfied. With three authors, such athing should be possible. Not to mention, while the girls are funny, they’re eachextremely similar to each other in what they say and how they act. I hate tosay it, but their characters were a bit flat. What depth they had was brief,and it occurred overseas. Don’t let me forget the relationships between the IKCgirls and the boys either. Even Mei, supposedly shy Mei, jumped all over thechance to kiss a foreign boy. Wouldn’t at least one of the girls hesitate or benervous? Hell, not to knock myself, but if a boy was about to kiss me for thefirst time, I’d be petrified with worry.

Nonetheless this was a cute book, not fantastic, but anice one. This is a book I’d suggest waiting to read until it comes out inpaperback. While it may not be worth $16.99, it’s worth $7.99.

~Jess

IMM (44)

2012-01-29T09:03:00.000-08:00

In My Mailbox

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted byTheStorySiren. Each

week we spotlight the books we've received for review,

swapped, purchased, borrowed from the library, etc.

This week I received nothing, which is probably good because I read nothing! I had midyear exams, ugh, but thank goodness they're over now! What did ya'll get in your mailbox?

~Jess

PS) Don't forget to enter our second 1 out of 11 books Giveaway! HERE as well as our ARC Cinder Giveaway HERE which ends Tuesday! Good luck!

The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight

2012-01-25T11:40:00.000-08:00

Who would have guessed that four minutes could change everything?

Today should be one of the worst days of seventeen-year-old Hadley Sullivan's life. She's stuck at JFK, late to her father's second wedding, which is taking place in London and involves a soon to be step-mother that Hadley's never even met. Then she meets the perfect boy in the airport's cramped waiting area. His name is Oliver, he's British, and he's in seat 18C. Hadley's in 18A.

Twists of fate and quirks of timing play out in this thoughtful novel about family connections, second chances and first loves. Set over a 24-hour-period, Hadley and Oliver's story will make you believe that true love finds you when you're least expecting it.

Originality- 18/20

OverallEnjoyment- 19/20

Ending- 17/20

Cover-18/20

Characters- 19/20

Total score- 91/100

Grade- A

Teen

Stop. Stop reading this blog. Step away from yourcomputer and go pick up this book. It is completely and utterly adorable. It’sone of my new favorite love stories.

The statistical probability of Love at First Sight is sosimple, it’s beautiful. The overall storyline occurs in about 24 hours andthere are three main settings; the USA, a plane ride, and London. The novelbegins when Hadley misses her plane by 4 minutes, thus changing her lifeforever. This book succeeded in doing something really difficult. Itencompassed life and the simple things that inspire huge events. It encompassedthe simplicity of true love, which was what grabbed my attention. The lovestory ended up being my favorite aspect, and I’m not a huge romance fan.

Oliver and Hadley are two totally different characters,but they make an adorable couple. Both of them interested me and kept my attention,Oliver especially. Still, while Oliver may be a stereotypical, hot, Britishguy, he evolved, like Hadley, over the story. I liked the couple because theymade each other grow over the flight. They’re just one of those couples who areso flawed, they’re perfect. This book is the perfect read for anyone who hadeven fallen in love, talked to a stranger, or been on a plane.

~Jess

1 out of 11 Giveaway (#2!)

2012-01-21T11:47:00.000-08:00

Well as an apology for not posting for a week, (I was sick...plus someone hacked my blogging email, not a great week), I've decided to throw a little giveaway! Ta-da! I cleaned out my bookshelf again and have 11 books I'll be donating to my local library. Well, 10 actually because YOU have the chance to win one of your choice from the pile!

Here's what I have:

1. Evermore by Alyson Noel

2. Blue Moon by Alyson Noel

3. A la Carte by Tanita S. Davis

4. The Magnolia League by Katie Crouch

5. Starstruck by Cyn Balog

6. Bloodspell by Amalie Howard (ARC)

7. Goddess Girls: Athena the Wise by Williams and Holub (SIGNED)

8. Goddess Girls: Aphrodite the Diva by Williams and Holub (SIGNED)

9. Flipped by Wendelin Van Draanen

10. The Shattering by Karen Healey (ARC)

11. Marked by P.C. and Kristen Cast

Well that's it! Good luck! Also, there's a fair warning I might not blog excessively next week. Midterms and all.

<p>&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Loading...&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;</p>

IMM (43)

2012-01-15T05:56:00.000-08:00

In My Mailbox

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted byTheStorySiren. Each

week we spotlight the books we've received for review,

swapped, purchased, borrowed from the library, etc.

Bought:

The International Kissing Club by Ivy Adams

Well that's my IMM! What did you guys get this week?

~Jess

I digress...

2012-01-12T12:34:00.000-08:00

I came across this article today and found myself royally pissed off. (Excuse my language). Is literature meant to elevate the reader, or be enjoyed by the reader? Is there any purpose then to YA lit? I think YA lit is helpful, entertaining and necessary to teen's growth. YA lit helps to teach us lessons! I can easily say some of my favorite authors (Michael Grant/Meg Cabot/Scott Westerfeld/Elizabeth Eulberg) have helped me through some very bad times. What do you think about this article? All I saw was a snooty Mr. Alexander Nazaryan who must have never been a kid. I digress Mr. Nazaryan, if you wish to bash Myers' work and YA lit, be prepared for some bashing from the teens themselves.

~Jess

PS) I bash you!

Bloodrose

2012-01-12T12:14:00.000-08:00

Calla has always welcomed war. But now that the final battle is upon her, there's more at stake than fighting. There's saving Ren, even if it incurs Shay's wrath. There's keeping Ansel safe, even if he's been branded a traitor. There's proving herself as the pack's alpha, facing unnamable horrors, and ridding the world of the Keepers' magic once and for all. And then there's deciding what to do when the war ends. If Calla makes it out alive, that is.

Originality- 17/20

Overall Enjoyment- 18/20

Ending- 17/20

Cover- 18/20

Characters- 20/20

Total Score- 90/100

Grade- A-

Teen

Bloodrose is a great end to the Nightshade Trilogy. I loved every second of it. Cremer times her books perfectly. I remember Wolfsbane was a story that took place over a couple hours/days of Calla's life and Bloodrose is similar to that. The pace is quick, which adds to the excitement. I never find myself bored with these books. There's constant action and drama. Another important factor, Cremer isn't afraid to kill off main characters. While I was sad to see some go in Bloodrose, it added to the emotional roller coaster of the plot. The sudden deaths and reappearances of some of the wolves/searchers/keepers shocked and depressed me. Still, in all, this was one roller coaster of a book. I can easily say Cremer delighted us with another spectacular novel.

~Jess

Amplified

2012-01-10T11:48:00.000-08:00

When privileged 17-year-old Jasmine gets kicked out of her house, she takes what is left of her savings and flees to Santa Cruz to pursue her dream of becoming a musician. Jasmine finds the ideal room in an oceanfront house, but she needs to convince the three guys living there that she's the perfect roommate and lead guitarist for their band, C-Side. Too bad she has major stage fright and the cute bassist doesn't think a spoiled girl from over the hill can hack it. . . .

Originality- 17/20

Overall Enjoyment- 18/20

Ending- 17/20

Cover- 16/20

Characters- 18/20

Total score- 86/100

Grade- B

Teen

Teen rebellion, hot boys, stunning realism; Amplified isthe epitome of a good YA read. The story begins with 17-year-old Jasmine who isliving on her own in Santa Cruz after telling her father she doesn’t want to goto college, at least not yet. This is a great book for any girl, or guy, whohas longed to tell their parents the popular line, “I don’t want to follow yourplan for me.” Lots of adults have plans for us teens and I really think ittakes guts to follow your own plan for yourself. O, from the first chapter, Ialready had respect for Jasmine. She didn’t let me down either. Jasmine is amain character who makes some really awful mistakes, but she learns from them.She grew so much over the course of the novel; it felt like years had passed inthe novel’s world instead of weeks. Jasmine wasn’t the only realistic charactereither, each character was realistic in their own way. Veta was cool and theguys in the band were especially yummy. I’m not a music person, so it wasreally the characters that kept me interested in this book. Still, I’ll bechecking out more of Kelly’s YA books. She is a very talented author.

~Jess

Touch of Power Winner!

2012-01-08T18:24:00.000-08:00

Congrats to...

Irika!

for winning our Touch of Power Giveaway! Thanks to everyone who participated and thanks to the author for supplying the book!

Happy Reading everyone!

Definately pick up ToP if you haven't yet!

~Jess

IMM (42)

2012-01-08T07:22:00.000-08:00

In My Mailbox

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted byTheStorySiren. Each

week we spotlight the books we've received for review,

swapped, purchased, borrowed from the library, etc.

Bought:

Cinder-Marissa Meyer

Bloodrose- Andrea Cremer

Charmfall- Chloe Neill

Well, that's my IMM! What did you receive this week?

~Jess

Cinder (Review)

2012-01-06T05:28:00.000-08:00

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

Originality- 18/20

Overall Enjoyment- 20/20

Ending- 19/20

Cover- 18/20

Characters- 19/20

Total score- 94/100

Grade- A

Teen

Cinder is magnificent. I sat down one afternoon to start it and found myself reading it until early the next morning with no break in between. It is that good. The Cinderella twist is very cool but the book is so much more than that! There's an entirely different world attached to this fairytale. There are Lunars and cyborgs and a deathly plague. Not to mention this book is part of a new trilogy. Have you ever heard of a Cinderella trilogy? I sure haven't. Actually, my only criticism of this book is based on the Cinderella twist. It makes the book easy to predict, however it isn't entirely predictable. As I said, the "new" storyline is what really gives the story volume. Meyer crafted a really in-depth world that I can't wait to go to again! Plus I can't wait to see Cinder again. She is one of those heroines you can't help but adore. She's down to earth and strong. I'd fight on her side any day.
This is a great book I'd encourage anyone, young or old, to pick up a copy.
~Jess

Cover Reveal (9) City of Lost Souls

2012-01-04T12:02:00.000-08:00

I knew this cover would be released today so I've been checking the website nonstop! Here it is! Ahhh!!! Clary and Jace, they're awesome and the cover is so beautiful! USA Today posted it, along with an awesome excerpt here. I don't know about you guys, but I can't wait for this book!

~Jess

Cinder ARC Giveaway!!

2012-01-03T07:24:00.000-08:00

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

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

Cinder has been added to my list of Favorte Books of All Time! So, I'm giving away my ARC copy of Cinder to one lucky person so someone can add it to their favorites list!!
The contest is US only and it ends January 31st.
Please see my Contest/Privacy Policy page for more details.

RAK (Random Acts of Kindness)

2012-01-02T17:02:00.000-08:00

Finally I'm participating in Random Acts of Kindness created and hosted by http://booksoulmates.blogspot.com/ ! I've considered doing this hundreds of times, but decided I would participate as part of my New Years Resolution for my blog. So here we go!

My Wish List for January 2012

1. Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare

2. Silence by Becca Fitzpatrick

3. Entwined by Heather Dixon

4. FEAR by Michael Grant

5. Ripple by Mandy Hubbard

I can't wait to participate!

~Jess

Hunger Games Movie Poster Winner!!

2012-01-01T11:10:00.000-08:00

Congrats to...

Kelsie!

For winning our Hunger Games Movie Poster Giveaway! The poster will be sent out soon, and look for an e-mail from me!

Thanks to everyone who entered! This contest was really well received and I'm excited because I might have another popular movie poster to give away in the future...hmm...

Happy New Years!

~Jess

Happy New Year!

2011-12-31T21:20:00.000-08:00

My Top Five Reads of 2011:

Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins

Starcrossed by Jospehine Angelini

Bumped by Megan McCafferty

PLAGUE by Michael Grant

The Queen of Water by Laura Resau

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!!!! I expect that this will be an awesome year for my blog as I have plenty of GREAT THINGS PLANNED!!!! Tomorrow....or later today, I'll be posting my January New Years Resolution, which may have something to due with Hermoine Granger....yes. I have ideas.

Yours forever and always,

~Jess

IMM (41)

2011-12-31T12:44:00.000-08:00

In My Mailbox

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted byTheStorySiren. Each week we spotlight the books we've received for review, swapped, purchased, borrowed from the library, etc.

Bought:

Sisters of Isis- Lynne Ewing

Lola and the Boy Next Door- Stephanie Perkins

Recieved:

Why We Broke Up- Daniel Handler

The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight- Jennifer E. Smith

I pre-apologize for the fact that there are times when the audio is a bit off...it's a new webcam, I'm working on it. Happy New Year!

~Jess

Jessica Rules the Dark Side

2011-12-29T10:55:00.000-08:00

It’s one thing to find out you’re a vampireprincess. It’s a whole other thing to actually rule. Newly married JessicaPackwood is having a hard enough time feeling regal with her husband, Lucius,at her side. But when evidence in the murder of a powerful elder points toLucius, sending him into solitary confinement, Jessica is suddenly on her own.Determined to clear her husband’s name, Jessica launches into a full-scaleinvestigation, but hallucinations and nightmares of betrayal keep getting inher way. Jessica knows that with no blood to drink, Lucius’s time is runningout. Can she figure out who the real killer is—and whom she can trust—beforeit’s too late?

Originality- 17/20

OverallEnjoyment- 18/20

Ending- 18/20

Cover-17/20

Characters- 18/20

Total score- 88/100

Grade- B

Teen

This was a spectacular sequel to Jessica’s Guide toDating on the Dark Side! It has action, mystery and a good romance.

Jessica Rules the Dark Side took me a while to get into.When I started it, all I could think was, “where the heck did the old Jess go?”I still remembered the Jess from Jessica’s Guide to Dating on the Dark Side, whowas strong-willed and courageous. I remembered the girl who threw a pitchfork ata vampire’s foot. In the beginning of JRTDS, all I saw was a really depressedJessica who really didn’t want to be a princess.

The book quickly takes a turn for the better. The plotthickens and the stakes (ha-ha get it, vampires, stakes?) rise. Jess has nochoice but to step up and lead. My favorite parts of the book were those whenshe realizes how to rule and matures a little. This novel had quite a bit ofcoming-of-age parallels and I consider that a good thing.

I was ecstatic to see Mindy again. Plus I thought herlove interest was très sexy. Raniero, a hippy vampire with a dark past, addedanother mystery to the story. I found myself growing close to both charactersand saw them as the real entertainment to the novel.

JRTDS is full of action, mystery and romance, along withunique characters and an interesting plot. If you liked Jessica’s Guide toDating on the Dark Side, Jessica Rules the Dark Side will not disappoint you.

~Jess

The Death Cure

2011-12-28T11:44:00.000-08:00

Thomas knows that Wicked can't be trusted, but they say thetime for lies is over, that they've collected all they can from the Trials andnow must rely on the Gladers, with full memories restored, to help them withtheir ultimate mission. It's up to the Gladers to complete the blueprint forthe cure to the Flare with a final voluntary test.
What Wicked doesn'tknow is that something's happened that no Trial or Variable could haveforeseen. Thomas has remembered far more than they think. And he knows that hecan't believe a word of what Wicked says.
The time for liesis over. But the truth is more dangerous than Thomas could ever imagine.
Will anyone survivethe Death Cure?

Originality-20/20

Overall Enjoyment- 19/20

Ending- 16/20

Cover- 16/20

Characters- 19/20

Total score-90/100

Grade- A

Teen

My reaction to The Death Cure in one word: wow. The Maze Runnerwas good, The Scorch Trails was decent, but I believe The Death Cure blew themboth away! The final book brought the heat! It succeeded in capturing myinterest and I especially enjoyed the amount of action. Unlike The ScorchTrails, I no longer found myself confused and Dashner revealed the final piecesto the puzzle very nicely. The ending also was decent, I don’t tend to enjoythe ending of a trilogy or series so I consider it a great thing when Isomewhat like the outcome. Still, my favorite aspect of The Death Cure was thedevelopment of the characters. Some main characters meet untimely ends in thefinal book and it made the story seem more real. Plus Thomas and Teresa come sofar…that’s what made The Death Cure such an alluring read in my opinion. Thisbook was a success and it’s definitely something I’ll be suggesting my libraryto pick up.

~Jess
Muchas Gracias to www.randombuzzers.com for the copy!

Wrapping up 2011 Read-a-thon Update #2

2011-12-27T11:40:00.000-08:00

Wrapping up 2011 Read-a-thon Update #2
Finished:
Slayers by C.J. Hill (373/373)
Ex-mas by Kate Brian (216/216)
Sapphique by Catherine Fisher (462/462pgs)
The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter (293/293)

Making Progress:
Echoes by Melinda Metz (34/517)

~Jess

Anna and the French Kiss

2011-12-27T07:50:00.000-08:00

Annacan't wait for her senior year in Atlanta, where she has a good job, a loyalbest friend, and a crush on the verge of becoming more. So she's not toothrilled when her father unexpectedly ships her off to boarding school in Paris- until she meets Etienne St. Clair, the perfect boy. The only problem? He'staken, and Anna might be, too, if anything comes of her crush back home. Will ayear of romantic near-misses end in the French kiss Anna awaits?

Originality- 20/20

OverallEnjoyment- 20/20

Ending- 19/20

Cover-17/20

Characters- 19/20

Total score- 95/100

Grade- B

Teen

Okay, I finally read Anna and the French Kiss. All yearlong I’ve heard rave reviews for it so I finally got my hands on a copy andstarted it.

In my school we have French vs. Spanish wars between thetwo popular language classes. I take Honors Spanish 4 so obviously I’m on theSpanish side. When I saw this book with the Eiffel Tower on the cover, I knewI’d totally get slammed against some lockers if I brought it to school. Threeweeks ago I bought it on impulse and was immediately captivated by the firstcouple of lines which consist of Anna telling the reader what she knows aboutthe French, that it’s rumored they hate Americans and white sneakers, plus theyhave good food. That’s about my limit of French knowledge! I continued thisbook enrapt in the story, one of the best YA love stories I’ve read. Anna andSt. Clair are soo cute, but they’re real and have real problems, especiallywith each other. It was nice to see a couple in YA lit that wasn’t far-fetchedor perfect.

Anna and the French Kiss taught me a good deal too. Theinternational atmosphere really interested me. I would love to go to a rich kidschool in Paris! Oh, and did I mention this book totally changed my opinion onFrench? Just don’t tell the Spanish students at my school, they’ll vote me offthe island! I totally plan on taking French 1 next year.

Well there you have it! Anna and the French Kiss was afun, quirky and irresistibly, real read. It’s definitely something I’drecommend, and now I can’t wait to get my hands on Lola and the Boy Next Door!

~Jess

2012 Debut Author Challenge

2011-12-26T12:45:00.000-08:00

I barely completed my goal of 12 DAC (Debut Author Challenge) books for 2011 so I'm really looking forward to 2012's DAC! Here's my list of 12 DAC books I WILL complete this year! Usually I stray from this list, but this year I will read each one!

12 DAC books for 2012

1. Incarnate- Jodi Meadows

2. The Selection- Kiera Cass

3. Elemental- Emily White

4. Struck- Jennifer Bosworth

5. Of Poseidon- Anna Banks

6. Ditched- Robin Mellom

7. Katana- Cole Gibson

8. Unraveling- Elizabeth Norris

9. Tangled Tides- Karen Amanda Hooper

10. Cracked- K.M. Walton

11. The International Kissing Club- Ivy Adams

12. Beauty- Lisa Daily

Note: List may be added to ;)

Happy Reading!

~Jess

Test Vlog

2011-12-25T10:53:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas!

Happy Holidays!

<3 Jess

Undercurrent

2011-12-24T08:54:00.000-08:00

The sirens are back, but Vanessa may be the biggest threat of all. . . .
Nothing has been normal since Vanessa Sands learned that her sister was murdered by sirens—femme fatales of the watery depths—and that everything she believed about her family was a lie.
Her boyfriend Simon’s been the only person Vanessa feels she can really trust. But now there are some secrets she can’t tell even him. And when Vanessa finds herself in the sights of Parker, Hawthorne Prep’s resident charmer, she needs someone to confide in more than ever. Doubting her relationship with Simon, unsure of Parker’s intentions—and of her own—and terrified by what she’s learned about herself, Vanessa has never felt so alone.
But personal problems must be put aside, because the Winter Harbor sirens are back for revenge. Now, Vanessa must face her past and accept that she is just like her enemies—every bit as alluring, every bit as dangerous.

Originality- 17/20

OverallEnjoyment- 18/20

Ending- 17/20

Cover-20/20

Characters- 17/20

Total score- 89/100

Grade- B+

Teen

Undercurrentleftme at a standstill. I have no clue where the author plans on going with thisseries, but I’m not saying that in a bad way. At this point I’m just waitingfor the next Siren novel.

*WARNING:SPOILERS FOR SIREN AHEAD*

Undercurrent was an interesting read, I didn’t like itmore than Siren, but rarely do I prefer a sequel to the original. Undercurrentbegins not long after where Siren left off. Vanessa goes back to school, whiledigging into her family’s past and dealing with her boyfriend. Not to mention she’sfreaking out over the fact she’s a siren. I actually enjoyed watching Vanessaunravel. Seeing her character in depth, she grew on me. Vanessa, despite thesiren-ness, is real. She’s worrying over college, and having guy trouble. Shereminds me of plenty of people I know in High School. Even if she goes a littlecrazy, she freaks out in a realistic way.

The sirens return in Undercurrent, and they’re as nastyas ever. These sirens scare me and Undercurrent taught me to hate them on anall-new level. They’re thrilling and they add to the never-ending mystery. TheSiren books put the mythical beings in a classic light, these sirens are noAriel.

Undercurrent was good, but theending left me hanging again. I love cliffhangers but this cliffhanger wasn’t as quaint or as clever as Siren’s.Perhaps that’s why I didn’t like it. Either way Undercurrent was a goodfollow up to the first Siren book.

~Jess

Wrapping up 2011 Read-a-thon Update #1

2011-12-23T18:43:00.000-08:00

Wrapping up 2011 Read-a-thon Update #1
Finished:
Slayers by C.J. Hill (373/373)
Ex-mas by Kate Brian (216/216)

Made Progress:
Sapphique by Catherine Fisher (217/462pgs)
The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter (12/293)

Well, I wish I had read more because I won't get much reading done tomorrow, but at least I got some reading accomplished! :)
Happy Holidays!

~Jess

(updated!) Wrapping up 2011 Read-a-thon

2011-12-22T08:20:00.000-08:00

I'm pumped to participate in another read-a-thon! This one is especially important to me because I have so many books on my TBR list, and I'm bound to have more by Christmas. Just go to Remarkable Reads to participate!

TBR List

Sapphique by Catherine Fisher (195/462pgs)

Slayers by C.J. Hill (198/373)

The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter (0/293)

Echoes by Melinda Metz (0/517)

Ship Breaker by Paolo Bacigalupi (0/323)

Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl (0/563)

Another Pan by Daniel & Dina Nayeri (0/393)

& TBR Re-Read

Ex-mas by Kate Brian (0/216)

NOTE: List might be added to after Christmas

~Jess

Touch of Power (Review, Author Interview & Giveaway!)

2011-12-20T10:42:00.000-08:00

Laying hands upon the injured and dying, Avry of Kazan assumes their wounds and diseases into herself. But rather than being honored for her skills, she is hunted.
Healers like Avry are accused of spreading the plague that has decimated the Territories, leaving the survivors in a state of chaos.

Stressed and tired from hiding, Avry is abducted by a band of rogues who, shockingly, value her gift above the golden bounty offered for her capture.
Their leader, an enigmatic captor-protector with powers of his own, is unequivocal in his demands: Avry must heal a plague-stricken prince—leader of a campaign against her people.

As they traverse the daunting Nine Mountains, beset by mercenaries and magical dangers, Avry must decide who is worth healing and what is worth dying for. Because the price of peace may well be her life....

My Review: Touch of Power blew my mind! It caught me off guard. I expected an awesome story of course, because it is one of Maria's books, but I didn't expect Touch of Power to rival Poison Study on my list of my favorite books of all time. I think it might have been better...
Touch of Power combines an awesome cast of characters, a fantastic plot and scary Death Lilys to mold a great story. Avry was a very different heroine than Yelena or any of Snyder's other MC's from her other books. She wasn't always sure of herself, and she was rather selfless. I admired her not only for her skill, but for the immense care she gave others. She put herself in the line of fire time after time and it became rather clear that as a Healer, it was what she was born to do. Additionally, the story is one big adventure. I was enrapt by page one, and I read through till the end in one day. The story never left me bored and it's one I'll definitely read over and over again. I'm thinking it'll be something I'll suggest to my book club. Don't let me forget to bring up the romance. Avry and her romantic interest were adorable and so real. I wasn't expecting her to end up with who she did, and that also made the ending all the more interesting. Touch of Power had everything going for it. I predict it will become a very popular book in the new year.
~Jess

Interview w/ Maria V. Snyder
Here's a shout out to Maria for letting me interview her! It was so much fun! Thank-you!

1. Which book of yours was the most fun to write and why?
A) Sea Glass was the most fun to write because Janco had a bigger role in the story. His character is just a blast to write about – he's not your typical soldier and has a unique view on life.

2. Your characters are familiar with a variety of weapons, how do you research them?
A) I studied Issinryu karate for a number of years. As part of the training, we learned weapon katas, which taught us how to fight with a bo staff, and sais. My karate instructor was also fascinated with switchblades and we did a ton of knife defense drills.

3. Where did you get the inspiration for Touch of Power?
A) I had this vague idea about a healer or an apprentice healer during an epidemic. She was either going to be sought after for her powers – like everyone wanting her, or be hunted. I wasn’t sure. Then one night my daughter couldn’t sleep and she wanted me to tell her a story. She knew all my other books, so I started telling her about this healer. And every night, she’d ask, “What’s next?” That’s why Touch of Power is dedicated to my daughter.

4. Your heroines are always so kick-butt! In a fight who do you think would come out on top; Opal, Yelena, Avry or Trella?
A) They are all strong in different ways. Trella is the smallest and she didn't learn how to fight, and Avry needs to touch her opponent, which can be tricky. If magic isn't allowed, Opal has the upper hand over Yelena, since Opal trained with Valek. However, if magic's allowed, Yelena has them all beat.

5. How long does it take you to write a book? Have you ever participated in Nanowrimo?
A) I'm a slow writer and it takes me about 6 months to write a book. I've never done nanowrimo, that's too stressful for me.

6. What are the best, and worst parts of being a writer?
A) The best thing is when I surprised while I’m writing. Surprise as in, I think I have a scene or a character all figured out, then when I’m writing, something happens that is completely unplanned and unexpected. For example, in Poison Study, when Yelena explores Valek’s rooms and discovers he carves statues from stones and is an artist, I was as shocked as she was.
The worst things are the details! Setting details, descriptive details, details about the fantasy world, details about the magic – Yikes! If it was up to me, my stories would be all action and dialogue!

7. Do you ever plan on writing another book set in Ixia and Sitia?
A) Yes, I do plan to write another Study book with Valek and Yelena. However, it will probably be more from Valek’s point of view than Yelena’s and it will include some flashbacks about Valek’s early years. Don’t get too excited. There are no definite plans as to when this will be published – I haven’t even discussed this with my editor yet.

8. If you had to describe Touch of Power in three words, what three words would you use?
A) Character-focused, fast-paced, suspenseful.
-Thank you! Thanks for inviting me to your blog. If your readers would like more info about me and my books, I have the first chapter of all my books on my website as well as a number of free short stories they can read. Here’s the link: http://www.mariavsnyder.com/ And my blog is: http://officialmariavsnyder.blogspot.com/
Maria

Enter to win at a form HERE.
(Blogger was giving me problems embedding it)

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2011-12-18T05:04:00.000-08:00

In My Mailbox

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by TheStorySiren. Each week we spotlight the books we've received for review, swapped, purchased, borrowed from the library, etc.

Purchased (Used from B&N):

The Choice by Lynne Ewing

Well, that's my IMM! What about you?

~Jess

Hunger Games Movie Poster Giveaway!

2011-12-16T16:03:00.000-08:00

So, long story short, my lovely mother saw Hunger Games movie posters lying on the counter at the cinema and asked if she could take some. Surprisingly, they let her. So Now I'm holding a giveaway for (1) Official Hunger Games movie poster as shown below.

This Giveaway is US only and ends December 31st, a great surprise for the new year!

For extra entries: +1 if you follow me +2 if you repost/retweet my giveaway somewhere

Just fill out the form!

May the odds be ever in your favor!

&lt;p&gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Loading...&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&lt;/p&gt;

Falling for Hamlet

2011-12-14T03:54:00.000-08:00

Sometimes love can make you crazy.

Meet Ophelia, high school senior, daughter of the Danish king's most trusted adviser, and longtime girlfriend of Prince Hamlet. She lives a glamorous life and has a royal social circle, and her beautiful face is splashed across magazines and television screens. But it comes with a price—her life is ruled not only by Hamlet's fame and his overbearing royal family but also by the paparazzi who hound them wherever they go.

After the sudden and suspicious death of his father, the king, Hamlet spirals dangerously toward madness, and Ophelia finds herself torn, with no one to turn to. All Ophelia wants is to live a normal life. But when you date a prince, you have to play your part.

Originality- 17/20

OverallEnjoyment- 17/20

Ending- 19/20

Cover-18/20

Characters- 17/20

Total score- 88/100

Grade- B

Teen

So I’ve never read Hamlet, so this review may come alittle short. On the upside,

Falling for Hamlet had inspired me to read theactual play for Classic Tuesdays. And I will. Sometime.

Falling for Hamlet started slow but picked up fast. I was

along for the ride. Ophelia really interested me; I loved her spunk

andappreciated her devotion to Hamlet. As I haven’t read the play, I enjoyed thesurprises and turns of the story and didn’t see any of them coming. besidesthe King’s death. I especially liked the modernity of it all. The talk showinterviews with Ophelia that began each chapter were clever, as was theinterrogations that ended the chapters. The ending was awesome as well! It wasvery Shakespeare, because everyone must die, but they died in “modern” ways. Ihave no clue if that’s how the play ended but I’m sure it was a clever twist. Iliked the book and I can consider myself an example of someone who went intothis book blind on the actual Hamlet, and ended up enjoying it. Anyone can readthis book.

~Jess

Death Cloud

2011-12-13T03:28:00.000-08:00

Theyear is 1868, and Sherlock Holmes is fourteen. His life is that of a perfectlyordinary army officer’s son: boarding school, good manners, a classicaleducation – the backbone of the British Empire. But all that is about tochange. With his father suddenly posted to India, and his mother mysteriously‘unwell’, Sherlock is sent to stay with his eccentric uncle and aunt in theirvast house in Hampshire. So begins a summer that leads Sherlock to uncover hisfirst murder, a kidnap, corruption and a brilliantly sinister villain ofexquisitely malign intent . . .

Originality- 17/20

Overall Enjoyment- 17/20

Ending- 17/20

Cover- 19/20

Characters- 17/20

Total score- 87/100

Grade- B

Teen

I bought Death Cloud on my way home from Scotland thissummer and I read it on the plane. As a Sherlock junkie, I totally loved it. DeathCloud gives you the perfect glimpse of the life of 14-year-old Sherlock Holmes,before he gets all mental. Not only does the book introduce you to thedetective, but it shows the reader the beginning of Sherlock’s obsession withbees, and his use of the science of deduction. Disclaimer: I’ve never actuallyread ir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Sherlock Holmes, but I’ve seen the movie withRobert Downey Jr., and the BBC miniseries Sherlock. Both are fantastic, andthis book is great as well. While the cover of Death Cloud did not attract me,I picked it up anyway because I saw the words, “Young Sherlock Holmes”. I’mhappy I bought it. I’ll be sharing this one with plenty of friends and family.It’s a great mystery and back story.

~Jess

Sun-Kissed Christmas

2011-12-12T03:23:00.000-08:00

*Again I aplogize for the odd formatting**

All she wants for Christmas…

Summer is headed to the Keys for winter break, but what should be a fun-in-the-sun holiday is becoming unbearable. Summer hasn’t been able to stop thinking about her ex-boyfriend, Austin, since their summer romance fizzled, and she can’t stand seeing him at the beach with his new girlfriend….

Now Austin is everywhere she goes. She’s reminded of how much fun they had, how gorgeous he is, and what she really wants is what she can’t have. Will it take a Christmas miracle for Summer to survive this holiday season? Or will the mistletoe work its magic?

Originality- 17/20

Overall Enjoyment- 17/20

Ending- 17/20
Cover- 19/20

Characters- 17/20
Total score- 87/100

Grade- B

Teen

In all honesty, this series has gone downhill after the first book. The first book was very heartfelt but each book after has seemed overdone. Sun-Kissed Christmas is just like the others after Beach Blondes, over done and dramatic. However this was a summery-Christmassy story. Read it in either season, it will put a small smile on your face. The characters are as unique and real as ever. Plus there’s less self-centered drama! (Note, less.) This is a perfect story for the giving season. It’s short and sweet. I plan on reading it again this summer as well.

~Jess

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2011-12-11T06:44:00.000-08:00

In My Mailbox

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren. Each week we spotlight the books we've received for review, swapped, purchased, borrowed from a library, etc.

Recieved(From Harlequin Teen):

The Goddess Test- Aimee Carter

I'm pumped to read The Goddess Test! I've had it in my hands a couple times now but it was always a library copy and I always had to return it because it was overdue. I like having my own copy. What did you get in your mailbox?

~Jess

Oh and don't forget to enter my Between the Sea and Sky Giveaway! Ends in 2 days!

Shut Out

2011-12-08T11:53:00.000-08:00

Most high school sports teams have rivalries with other schools. At Hamilton High, it's a civil war: the football team versus the soccer team. And for her part,Lissa is sick of it. Her quarterback boyfriend, Randy, is always ditching her to go pick a fight with the soccer team or to prank their locker room. And on three separate occasions Randy's car has been egged while he and Lissa were inside, making out. She is done competing with a bunch of sweaty boys for her own boyfriend's attention

Then Lissa decides to end the rivalry once and for all: She and the other players' girlfriends go on a hookup strike. The boys won't get any action from them until the football and soccer teams make peace. What they don't count on is a new sort of rivalry: an impossible girls-against-boys showdown that hinges on who will cave to their libidos first. But what Lissa never sees coming is her own sexual tension with the leader of the boys, Cash Sterling...

Originality-17/20
Overall Enjoyment- 18/20
Ending- 19/20
Cover- 20/20
Characters- 17/20
Total score-91/100

Grade- A

Teen

Shut Out is perfect for fans of Elizabeth Eulberg or Meg Cabot! I'd call it one of the best chick lit books for 2011! The story is clever and the characters are awesome. Everyone loves a good battle of the sexes. I found it enjoyable and hilarious. Plus the story teaches a lesson. A lesson I cannot share because I'd spoil it.
Lissa is a great main character. She has morals and she doesn't give in to anyone. I found myself not only relating to her, but also looking up to her. I was especially excited that she was a teen librarian helper, like myself. Keplinger describes the job with acute accuracy. Shut Out will definitely remain on my favorite's shelf for a long time. You should add it to yours.
~Jess
PS) I apologize for the odd text and highlighting...and wierd stuff on my blog. As I've said before, my computer has gone crazy and I haven't figured out how to fix it yet.

Computer Issues FYI

2011-12-05T13:47:00.000-08:00

So my home computer spazzed out last night and I lost everything. EVERYTHING. All those pre-planned posts, typed out reviews? Gone. So I'm just asking that people wait a couple days for me to get back on track. Hopefully we'll fix my computer, or I'll re-type the reviews, by the end of this week! Thank you!

~Jess

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2011-12-04T06:39:00.000-08:00

In My Mailbox

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren. Each week we spotlight the books we've received for review, swapped, purchased, borrowed from a library, etc.

Bought:

Undercurrent- Tracia Rayburn

Early Christmas Gifts:
Sapphique- Catherine Fisher

Revealers- Amanda Marrone
Echoes- Melinda Metz

Well that's my mailbox! It was a good week! How about you?
~Jess
Also, don't forget to enter my ARC giveaway of Between the Sea and Sky HERE.

Censorship...it sucks

2011-12-03T14:53:00.000-08:00

Free speech matters to me. I hope it matters to you too. Stand up for it!

~Jess

Siren

2011-12-03T05:13:00.000-08:00

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.

Originality-17/20

Overall Enjoyment- 18/20

Ending- 19/20

Cover- 20/20

Characters- 17/20

Total score-91/100

Grade- A

Teen

I’m going to be completely honest; I bought this book simply because it has a gorgeous cover. I wasn’t expecting to like it all that much but I knew I had to add it to my shelf. Turns out, Siren surprised me. I really enjoyed it and just ordered undercurrent, the sequel, because I simply couldn’t wait to read it. After Siren, I can tell it will be great.

The mystery of Siren is thrilling. There were times I didn’t want to put the book down. It engaged me from page one. The setting and story was set up beautifully. The fact the setting is in Winter Harbor, Maine really added to the creepy factor of the book. Siren was eerie, much like the mythical beings themselves. It gave me the chills. My only qualm is that Siren could get a little scattered. There were many things going on during the book but I expect it will be wrapped up in Undercurrent. Still, this added to the mystery. Siren is one of those books that you pick up through fate, but end up loving to the till the end.

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.

~Jess

Just Your Average Princess

2011-11-30T16:17:00.000-08:00

Jamie Edwards has loved everything about growing up on a pumpkin patch, but ever since her cousin Milan Woods arrived, things have really stunk. Jamie can’t imagine it was easy for Milan to leave her life back in Los Angeles and move to Average, Illinois, population one thousand. But it’s kind of hard to feel sorry for her since (a) Milan’s drop-dead gorgeous; (b) she’s the daughter of two of Hollywood’s hottest film stars; (c) she’s captured the attention of everyone in town, including Danny, Jamie’s crush since forever; and (d) she’s about to steal the title of Pumpkin Princess right out from underneath Jamie!

Originality-17/20

Overall Enjoyment- 14/20

Ending- 16/20

Cover- 18/20

Characters- 15/20

Total score-80/100

Grade- B-

Teen

Just Your Average Princess is a cute book, the perfect fall read. It fits into the season without being Halloween-related or over the top. However it may have been too simple.

The story is cute, but it missed the mark a little. Not much is truly resolved by the end of the book, give or take a friendship or two, and there is no big revelation for the main character. While yes, Jamie does realize that she was wrong to judge her cousin Milan, she really only decides to make things right because inside she is freaking out because she did something wrong. Jamie Edwards is a goody-two-shoes main character. While I know her character is appealing to some readers, I felt like she was barely worth reading about. I wish she was a little less perfect because then I could truly relate to her. Alas…she never changes over the course of the story. Still, it’s a cute chick lit book for this season of giving. It’s short and easy to read. However in my opinion it isn’t something I would read again and I can’t see saving it for another season.

~Jess

Classic Tuesdays (8) Romeo and Juliet

2011-11-29T03:37:00.000-08:00

My review: This is the second review I'e attempted to write for Romeo and Juliet. Honestly I'm surprised that I hadn't reviewed it yet but now I realize why, it's a hard review to put down on paper or ink.
Romeo and Juliet was the first forbidden love story that had great success. By far, its Shakespeare's most famous play. I myself am not a big fan of forbidden love stories but because R&J is the first, I love it. I loe Shakespeare's thick language and his lively characters. His writing puts you in a trance and I could read his work for hours.
Now let me throw a bit of a movie review in here. The Leonardo Di. Caprio and Caire Danes version of R&J is the best version I've seen. It's an interesting modern version of a old play. The characters are thrown into gang roles, making the story appeal to all types. Not to mention that anything with Leonardo Di Caprio is awesome. Either way, R&J is a perfect classic for your Tuesday read.
Grade- A
~Jess

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2011-11-27T06:58:00.000-08:00

In My Mailbox

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren. Each week we spotlight the books we've received for review, swapped, purchased, borrowed from a library, etc.

Recieved:

Touch of Power- Maria V. Snyder

Bought:

Nightshade- Andrea Cremer

Anna and the French Kiss- Stephanie Perkins

Well I had an awesome mailbox this week! What about you?

~Jess

Monster High 3: Where There's a Wolf, There's a Way

2011-11-26T10:19:00.000-08:00

The frighteningly hip teenage children of the world's most famous monsters have gathered together under one roof...to brave the horrors of high school!

Always overshadowed by her six brothers and her fab friends, Clawdeen Wolf plans to finally strut her stuff in the spotlight at her upcoming Sweet Sixteen bash. But after The Ghoul Next Door goes viral, it's into the woods for the family Wolf. Clawdeen goes stir crazy lying low at her family's B&B with her annoying brothers until Lala shows up to keep her company. But is the vamp flirting with Claude?!

Originality-18/20

Overall Enjoyment- 17/20

Ending- 18/20

Cover- 18/20

Characters- 20/20

Total score-91/100

Grade- A

Teen

The Monster High Series just makes my day. Ever since I was a little kid I’ve loved Halloween and these books are perfect for fans of the Holiday. MH is witty, creative and downright hilarious. As I’ve mentioned in the past, it also fits in well with the Anti-Bullying movement. Don’t judge someone based on their appearance etc. etc. Whether you’re looking for comedy, something spooky or something to bring your “spirits” up, Monster High is perfect for you.

Monster High 3: Where There’s a Wolf, There’s a Way was not the best of the series so far but I still liked it. We get to see more of Billy, everyone’s favorite invisible boy, and more goes on in the NUDI movement. Plus Melody’s secret heritage is finally revealed and although it was predictable, it fits her. It was interesting to see more of Clawdeen too, although I found her a tad annoying. I just think #3 should have been more explanatory because there was too much going on and it was rushed. However the series will always be one of my favorites for YA. Don’t judge it by it’s title, MH is for YA, all the way.

~Jess

Books I am Thankful for...

2011-11-24T06:19:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving! I hope everyone has a great day filled with thanks and turkeys. I'd like to share 10 books/book series I am thankful for.

Harry Potter by JK Rowling- The first book series that really got me interested in reading. I can remember sitting down every night to read it with my dad. Good times.
Fairy Dust and the Quest for the Egg by Gail Carlson Levine- Another one of my favorites as a kid. I would dream of visiting Neverland instead of going to class.
Maximum Ride by James Patterson- Max is probably my favorite heroine in all of YA lit. you just can help but aspire to be her.
Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli- 2cd best heroine of YA lit. Stargirl taught me to be myself.
Percy Jackson and the Olympians by Rick Riordan - Can I just say how much I love these books? They sparked my interest in Greek Mythology and helped me out a ton in Honors English as a Freshman during our Mythology unit.
Midnighters by Scott Westerfeld - So much love. I adore these books. They shaped my Middle School experience.
GONE by Michael Grant - Remember those days when you wished kids would rule the world....yeah...not so much...
Daughters of the Moon by Lynne Ewing - A bunch of kick-butt girl goddesses in LA. Makes for a good story.
The Lonely Hearts Club by Elizabeth Eulberg - Totally helped me through a broken relationship. One of the best chick-lit books I've ever read.
Monster High by Lisi Harrison - Never fails to make me laugh.

Happy Thanksgiving! What books are you thankful for?

~Jess

Cards for Cancer

2011-11-21T17:26:00.000-08:00

Hey guys, this may not be a post about books but it's of more importance.

My cousin told me about her coach's daughter's best friend who is currently battling cancer for the 3rd time since age four. Her name is Brielle and she just came through a very difficult surgery and is about to undergo a second. Brielle's 13th birthday is coming up on December 9th and her friend's and their friends etc. are asking everyone we know to send her a birthday card. We hope to surprise her with hundreds of cards from across the country! Whether it's homemade or bought, we hope it will bring a smile to her face! Her friends have set up a post office box to send the cards to. Please help us make this the most amazing birthday ever--for a girl who deserves the world!

Here's the addy: Brielle Laplante

P.O. Box 239

Ludlow, MA 01056

Please help us bring a smile to her face! My Girl Scout troop sent her cards today! Tell everyone you know!

~Jess

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2011-11-20T06:30:00.000-08:00

In My Mailbox

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren. Each week we spotlight the books we've received for review, swapped, purchased, borrowed from a library, etc.

This week I got nada, nothing in my mailbox. Luckily it gave me extra time to catch up on my TBR pile, write my nanowrimo and go see Breaking Dawn Part 1!!! Anyway don't forget to enter my Between the Sea and Sky Giveaway which ends December 13th! What did you get in your mailbox?

~Jess

Cover Reveal (8) Just for Fins by TLC

2011-11-19T10:31:00.000-08:00

Just for Fins coming 2012!

Synopsis:

When Lily Sanderson decided to remain Crown Princess Waterlily of the mermaid kingdom Thalassinia, she knew she couldn’t just coast along in the current. But since she’s spent the last couple of years on land—with gorgeous human Quince by her side—Lily’s not sure she has the fins to lead a kingdom. Even her maddeningly pretentious cousin Dosinia seems to know more about ruling than she does.
But Lily has to dive in deep to keep her promise to Tellin, her mer bond in name only, whose kingdom is suffering in the changing ocean climate. Lily knows this is a seven seas–sized problem: from sea animals dying to oil spills and threats to humans. They’ll need to create some serious waves to make the mer community aware and get it to join together to make things right. Even if that means facing one of the iciest queens in the mer kingdoms. Just when Lily thinks her double life on land and sea can’t get any more complicated, an ancient mer law might separate Lily and Quince after all. It feels as if the pair is up against a solid tsunami wave!

In this third installment in the series that began with Forgive My Fins and Fins Are Forever, Lily will have to find a way to balance safety and justice for the mer people as well as for the humans she loves. (Goodreads)

I'm pumped! I've been waiting for this one especially!

~Jess

Vidia and the Fairy Crown Manga Review

2011-11-17T11:46:00.000-08:00

Vidia can be nasty and selfish, but is she a thief? When she is falsely accused of stealing Queen Clarion’s crown, she begins an investigation that leads her on a wild-goose chase to the far corners of the Home Tree. Will Vidia be able to clear her name in time?

Grade-A

When I was little I loved fairies. So, when I saw this at my library’s used bookstore I thought, “Why not? It’s only a dollar and I can add it to my 2011 Manga Challenge. Well it was sooo worth the buck. This manga volume was wicked cute and I love the artistry. I thought Tinkerbell in manga-form would be weird but I really liked the style. The volume was much easier to follow than other mangas I’ve read. It’s great for a beginner like me. Nevertheless, the story was cute and the characters were sweet. There are obvious lessons thrown in throughout the story so it’s easily manga for preteens. I’d recommend it to a younger manga reader although I can say I thoroughly enjoyed it.
~Jess

Official Hunger Games Trailer

2011-11-14T09:48:00.000-08:00

Looks great! The trailer shows a lot of the pre-game stuff...but it looks like the movie might be ninja!

<3 Jess

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2011-11-13T12:27:00.000-08:00

In My Mailbox

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren. Each week we spotlight the books we've received for review, swapped, purchased, borrowed from a library, etc.

Recieved:

The Death Cure- James Dashner

Bought:

Luminous- Dawn Metcalf (SIGNED)

Siren- Tricia Rayburn

Well, that's my IMM! Don't forget to check out my contests! Today is the last day to enter for Just Your Average Princess here. Also new contest for Between the Sea and Sky here! Thanks for stopping by! What did you get in your mailbox?

~Jess

Blog Tour: Between the Sea and Sky Review & Giveaway

2011-11-13T07:08:00.000-08:00

For as long as Esmerine can remember, she has longed to join her older sister, Dosinia, as a siren--the highest calling a mermaid can have. When Dosinia runs away to the mainland, Esmerine is sent to retrieve her. Using magic to transform her tail into legs, she makes her way unsteadily to the capital city. There she comes upon a friend she hasn't seen since childhood--a dashing young man named Alandare, who belongs to a winged race of people. As Esmerine and Alandare band together to search for Dosinia, they rekindle a friendship . . . and ignite the emotions for a love so great, it cannot be bound by sea, land, or air.

Originality-20/20

Overall Enjoyment- 17/20

Ending- 17/20

Cover- 17/20

Characters- 19/20

Total score-90/100

Grade- A

Teen

I love mermaid/siren books and this is one exceptional piece of mermaid YA fiction. Dolamore crafted a beautiful world, under the sea and above. While the mermaid world was cool, I really liked the Fandarsees and world the best. Alandare was my favorite character. He could be cruel, but also kind. I liked each personality because it made their relationship more relaistic. No guy will fall in love with you instantly, in contrast to what most YA novels lead you to believe. Alandare brought realism to the fantasy world. Emerine too, was very real and relatable. I couldn't help but feel sorry for her. My only issue with this novel was bits and pieces of the plot. It was a tad underdeveloped. Had the book been longer, the author could have dove into each topic and really gone into the depth of the world. instead it felt a bit rushed. Still, if you like mermaids or boys with wings, this book is for you!

Giveaway!
I'm giving away an ARC of Between the Sea and Sky to one lucky person!
This giveaway is US only please!
Fill out the form to enter! Contest ends December 13, 2011.

For extra entries: +1 if you follow me, +2 if you repost this giveaway somewhere else.
Please see my Contest/Privacy Policy Page for further info.
Good luck!

~Jess

Goliath

2011-11-12T05:26:00.000-08:00

Alek and Deryn are on the last leg of their round-the-world quest to end World War I, reclaim Alek’s throne as prince of Austria, and finally fall in love. The first two objectives are complicated by the fact that their ship, the Leviathan, continues to detour farther away from the heart of the war (and crown). And the love thing would be a lot easier if Alek knew Deryn was a girl. (She has to pose as a boy in order to serve in the British Air Service.) And if they weren’t technically enemies.

The tension thickens as the Leviathan steams toward New York City with a homicidal lunatic on board: secrets suddenly unravel, characters reappear, and nothing is at it seems in this thunderous conclusion to Scott Westerfeld’s brilliant trilogy.

Originality-20/20

Overall Enjoyment- 19/20

Ending- 17/20

Cover- 17/20
Characters- 19/20

Total score-92/100

Grade- A

Teen

Goliath was an AWESOME end to an AWESOME trilogy!

The Leviathan Trilogy was the first Steampunk Series I’ve read and I ended up loving it. I’d say, it’s one of Scott Westerfeld’s best! As a WWI junkie myself, I was instantly attracted to the war in a steampunk atmosphere.

Goliath was my favorite of the three. I was never bored, as it was action-filled. Plus the ending was perfect! The characters were brought to the next level and it ended the series with a bang. Alek finally founds out Deryn is a GIRL!!! YAY! (Seeing as how that’s in the book jacket, I don’t see that tidbit as a spoiler.) Westerfeld did a great job with that revelation. He’s sneaky and things are exposed in a realistic way. This was a great conclusion to a great trilogy that I can’t wait to reread over and over again.

~Jess

Veteran's Day

2011-11-11T07:35:00.001-08:00

I'd like to say thanks to all the veterans who served to protect our country. We are forever grateful.

~Jess

The Secret Circle (Book&TV Show Review)

2011-11-10T11:44:00.000-08:00

Book Grade- C-

TV Show Grade- B+

To clarify beforehand, let me say I started the TV show of The Secret Circle before I read the book. I liked the show to the point where I bought a copy of the book in the bookstore. It took me maybe two or three days to finish and it left me totally disappointed.

I love LJSmith’s books. Dark Visions and The Forbidden Game are among some of my favorites of YA lit. However The Secret Circle lacked an interesting plot, unlike Smith’s other work. TSC bored me to tears. Don’t let me forget Cassie and the other witches either! They were so undeveloped and flat. Cassie especially was just downright whiny and annoying. She acted like a third grader, I swear!

However TSC as a show really interested me. The casting was great, (Phoebe Tonkin FTW!), and they picked out a great place to film. Additionally the effects are good. Plus the show is filled with action and creepy things that grab my attention. I guess this was just one of those times the TV show just trumps the book.

~Jess

Eragon (Book Review)

2011-11-07T08:10:00.000-08:00

Fifteen-year-old Eragon believes that he is merely a poor farm boy—until his destiny as a Dragon Rider is revealed. Gifted with only an ancient sword, a loyal dragon, and sage advice from an old storyteller, Eragon is soon swept into a dangerous tapestry of magic, glory, and power. Now his choices could save—or destroy—the Empire. (Summary by Barnes and Noble)

Grade- A

Teen

Part of the Inheritance Re-Read Challenge

I’m a participant of the Inheritance Trilogy Re-Read Challenge mostly because I read Eragon years ago when I was much younger so this was only my second time re-reading the book. Honestly, I had basically forgotten the plot so it was good to read it again.

I can see why people love Eragon. It’s amazing to think that Paolini started this book when he was so young. The characters are sculpted beautifully and the setting is extremely vivid. He creates an immensely vast world in Eragon that is fun to get lost in. Alagaesia rivals Hogwarts and Middle Earth in its quality. However, Paolini’s writing is not nearly as sophisticated as Rowling or Tolkien, and those are times you notice his age. Sometimes I would think, “Gee, my friend could have written this chapter.” The sentence structure was not complex, but he did improve over the novel. Hence I’ve been told the books only get better and better. I guess I’ll have to wait and judge that myself. Either way, Eragon is definitely a novel that will impress its readers for years to come.

~Jess

Cover Reveal (7) Dreamless by Josephine Angelini

2011-11-06T10:55:00.000-08:00

So excited when I came across this!

Dreamless by Josephine Angelini!

Isn't it beautiful! I totally can't wait to read it! I wasn't fond of the cover of book 1...but the sunset/sunrise on this cover makes it so catching! I can't wait to add it to my bookshelf!

~Jess

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2011-11-06T06:39:00.000-08:00

In My Mailbox

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren. Each week we spotlight the books we've received for review, swapped, purchased, borrowed from a library, etc.

Recieved:

Dearly, Departed- Lia Habel

Ship Breaker- Paolo Bacigalupi

Well that was my mailbox during the Nor'Easter! What did you get in yours?

~Jess

Vanish

2011-11-05T11:32:00.000-07:00

To save the life of the boy she loves, Jacinda did the unthinkable: She betrayed the most closely-guarded secret of her kind. Now she must return to the protection of her pride knowing she might never see Will again—and worse, that because his mind has been shaded, Will’s memories of that fateful night and why she had to flee are gone.

Back home, Jacinda is greeted with hostility and must work to prove her loyalty for both her sake and her family’s. Among the few who will even talk to her are Cassian, the pride’s heir apparent who has always wanted her, and her sister, Tamra, who has been forever changed by a twist of fate. Jacinda knows that she should forget Will and move on—that if he managed to remember and keep his promise to find her, it would only endanger them both. Yet she clings to the hope that someday they will be together again. When the chance arrives to follow her heart, will she risk everything for love?

Originality-18/20

Overall Enjoyment- 17/20

Ending- 17/20

Cover- 20/20

Characters- 18/20

Total score-90/100

Grade- A-

Teen

While Vanish was not, in my opinion, as good as its predecessor Firelight, it was still very good. I love the dragon pride that Sophie Jordan created. Her dragon-shifters are so cool and unique. Dragons are hard to find in YA lit and I’m glad there’s a series for fans of the beasts. Plus it’s a series with a great main character! Jacinda is a true heroine. While sometimes she makes HUGE mistakes, her good intentions are always clear, plus her and her mistakes are what make the book interesting! I hardly ever put Vanish down. It was a great adventure, and I’m looking forward to the next one. I definitely recommend for fans of fantasy, to hop on the flight and pick up a copy today!

~Jess

Nor-Easter

2011-11-04T14:20:00.000-07:00

So...I'm a Massachusetts girl and I don't know if ya'll have heard it on the news or not but we had this CRAZY snowstorm Saturday. My town got at least a foot of snow but that wasn't the big problem. The problem was the power lines and the trees.

Because most trees still had their leaves, the snow collected on them and tons of trees fell. I took pictures of the damage which I plan on uploading later. We were out of power for awhile.

By awhile I mean SIX TO SEVEN DAYS!!! My house just got power less than an hour ago and, let me tel you. I LOVE COMPUTERS! I LOVE SHOWERING AND I LOVE LIGHTS!

We got a week off of school but it's end of term so you can imagine how crazy everyone is right now...either way I just wanted to let everyone know I didn't just abandon my blog for a week. It was the power...

Still! I love to be back online and expect tons of reviews soon because I got so much reading done by candlelight!

~Jess

Just Your Average Princess Giveaway!

2011-10-28T12:46:00.000-07:00

I finished Just Your Average Princess last week and I think it's just the perfect Fall book to do a giveaway for! Look out for my review of JYAP coming next week!

US only please! Fill out the form to enter! Contest ends November 13, 2011.

For extra entries: +1 if you follow me, +2 if you repost my giveaway somewhere.

Please see my Contest/Privacy Policy Page for further info.

Good luck!

~Jess

This Dark Endeavor: The Apprenticeship of Victor Frankenstein

2011-10-24T13:39:00.000-07:00

Victor Frankenstein leads a charmed life. He and his twin brother Konrad and their beautiful cousin Elizabeth take lessons at home and spend their spare time fencing and horseback riding. Along with their friend, Henry, they have explored all the hidden passageways and secret rooms of the palatial Frankenstein chateau. Except one.

The Dark Library contains ancient tomes written in strange languages, and filled with forbidden knowledge. Their father makes them promise never to visit the library again, but when Konrad becomes deathly ill, Victor knows he must find the book that contains the recipe for the legendary Elixir of Life.

The elixir needs only three ingredients. But impossible odds, dangerous alchemy, and a bitter love triangle threaten their quest at every turn.

Victor knows he must not fail. But his success depends on how far he is willing to push the boundaries of nature, science, and love – and how much he is willing to sacrifice.

Originality- 17/20

Overall Enjoyment- 18/20

Ending- 18/20

Cover- 18/20

Characters- 19/20

Total Score- 90/100

Grade- A

Teen

I read Frankenstein last year and had a hard time enjoying it. (You can see my Classic Tuesdays review for it here.) One of my big problems with Mary Shelley's masterpiece was Victor himself. I couldn't stand him. He was boring and whiny. When I started This Dark Endeavor, I figured it would also be a really slow book, with not-so-great characters. This was not the case. I still could not stand Victor but, there was something about him as a teenager that not only made me laugh, but it kept me interested. He was so angsty as a teen, yet the original character stayed the same. Even Elizabeth, though a tad tomboyish, turned out to have her original self shine through at times.

The writing was incredible as well. Oppel did a great job giving the book a classic feel, without making the book a drag to read. Plus he added just enough action, especially at the end, to keep the reader engaged and entertained throughout the story. This is a book I could easily read again and again. However I do suggest it first to readers who have read the classic. It will only make you appreciate the book so much more.
~Jess

In Which I Give Excuses for Not Blogging...

2011-10-21T06:10:00.000-07:00

Okay, so here's the deal. I'm going camping this weekend with my girl scout troop so unfortunately I will not be able to post anything until Monday... However I'm going next Saturday to get my permit so I can drive! Yay, driving!! Yet...I haven't read the permit book yet (oops) and I really don't want to fail the test so, as of Monday, I'll be going on a "book ban".

It sounds as awful as it is. I will not let myself read anything besides my permit book next week. Nada. Zip. Zero. So in probability the next two weeks will be slow blogging for me...

I do apologize for not blogging since Monday. It's not that I haven't read books, I have a ton of books that I either have to write a review for, or I have to type the review. My problem is the lack of time I have from going from school, to drama club, to work, to book club, then to home. When I'm home I have to do my homework, usually by which I fall asleep on my history textbook.

Still, I promise you guys, once I get the hang of this school year, I'll be back on track to my normal schedule. It just might take some time.

This year in general will probably be very different for me and my blog, in some good ways, some bad. I've got some awesome ideas I can't wait to try out, however it is my junior year so I really have to be serious about my schoolwork.

Thanks for being patient with me guys, Happy Reading!

~Jess

Cover Reveal (6) Bitterblue by Kristin Cashore

2011-10-17T09:53:00.000-07:00

Finally the cover for Bitterblue by Kristin Cashore!

I'm so excited to read it! I really liked Graceling but have yet to start Fire! It's coming out May 1st, 2012. I'll definately be adding it to my bookshelf. How about you?

~Jess

S.A. (Special A) Volume 1 Review

2011-10-16T10:51:00.000-07:00

Her whole life, Hikari Hanazono has been consumed with the desire to win against her school rival, Kei Takishima—at anything. He always comes out on top no matter what he does, and Hikari is determined to do whatever it takes to beat this guy...somehow!

At age 6 Hikari lost to Kei in an impromptu wrestling match. Now, at 15, Hikari joins "Special A," a group of the top seven students at a private academy, for the opportunity to trounce the guy who made her suffer her first defeat.

Grade-A

I give S.A. an “A” for awesomeness. It’s sooo funny, Kei and Hikari’s love/hate relationship makes me laugh, and the artistry is spectacular. However the most obvious reason, for me, for loving this series, is that S.A. is very applicable to real life.

In my school, kids are at constant battle with each other, as it is junior year and all for my Class. There are a number of students who are in competition with each other for Valedictorian or the Excellence award in a class. Even I take part in the competition. I’m working double time to ensure that my grades are as great as they can be. Heck, this tension can break apart friendships in my school, but we all can understand how hard we work our butts off for our grades.

Hence, Hikari and I could really get along, or be in fierce competition with each other. I know what it’s like to constantly be beat by someone, and it stinks. I’m glad there’s a manga out there for people who put as much effort into school as I do. I’m definitely going to pick up the next volume in the future.

~Jess

Special thanks to Ashley @ WhatsYourStory for the great recommendation!

Bloodspell

2011-10-12T16:20:00.000-07:00

The spell was simple …

CRUENTUS PROTECTUM. Defend the Blood.

But what do you do if your blood is your enemy?

Victoria Warrick has always known she was different. An outcast at school, she is no stranger to adversity. But when she receives an old journal for her seventeenth birthday, nothing prepares her for the dark secrets it holds—much less one that reveals she’s a witch with unimaginable power.

What’s more, when she meets the dazzling but enigmatic Christian Devereux, she has no idea how much her life is about to change. Enemies will hunt her. Friends will turn on her. The terrible curse that makes her blood run black will stop at nothing to control her. And Christian has a sinister secret of his own …

Without knowing whom to trust, can Victoria survive her blood’s deadly desires? Or will she lose everything, including herself?

Originality- 12/20

Overall Enjoyment- 16/20

Ending- 17/20

Cover- 19/20

Characters- 15/20

Total Score- 79/100

Grade- C+

Teen

Bloodspell is another forbidden love/vampire romance. While the predictability of the story was annoying, it was still more creative than many paranormal romances I have seen. Victoria is not a Bella-esque heroine, but a powerful witch who can protect herself as well as her charming vampire boyfriend, Christian. Did I mention Christian has a feud with his also-a-vampire brother? That seemed to remind me of the Vampire Diaries series by L. J. Smith… Still, while this book was like many others, at least it had a decent ending. There was plenty of action and violence to keep me occupied. The rest of the book lacked action, but the ending made the wait worth it. Bloodspell just didn’t impress me as I hoped it would. However I do think it will appeal to those still on the "Paranormal-Romance Party-Bus".

~Jess

The Shattering

2011-10-10T07:05:00.000-07:00

Seventeen-year-old Keri likes to plan for every possibility. She knows what to do if you break an arm, or get caught in an earthquake or fire. But she wasn't prepared for her brother's suicide, and his death has left her shattered with grief. When her childhood friend Janna tells her it was murder, not suicide, Keri wants to believe her. After all, Janna's brother died under similar circumstances years ago, and Janna insists a visiting tourist, Sione, who also lost a brother to apparent suicide that year, has helped her find some answers.

As the three dig deeper, disturbing facts begin to pile up: one boy killed every year; all older brothers; all had spent New Year's Eve in the idyllic town of Summerton. But when their search for the serial killer takes an unexpected turn, suspicion is cast on those they trust the most.

As secrets shatter around them, can they save the next victim? Or will they become victims themselves?

Originality- 20/20

Overall Enjoyment- 18/20

Ending- 17/20

Cover- 8/20

Characters- 18/20

Total Score- 81/100

Grade- B

Teen

The Shattering was…different, to say the least. In the beginning, it seemed to be a contemporary mystery about a string of coincidental suicides in a small town that, by the end, morphed into a thrilling action story with plenty of magic and revenge. While all these elements made the story a bit busy, I think they added to the thrill and excitement of the novel. I liked the pace of the story, as well as the characters. Keri, Sione and Janna are quirky and have a unique way of dealing with their sibling’s deaths. I really liked Keri especially because she was the least erratic of the three and probably the most depressed, in part because her brother was the most recent to die. While I don’t see The Shattering becoming the next “it” book, I have to say I really enjoyed it and it surprised me in a good way.

~Jess

Monster High Swag-ish Giveaway!

2011-10-08T14:34:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone! As I've said in other posts, I'm a huge fan of Lisi Harrison's Monster High books. They're just fang-tastic(see what I did there?) ! So because I finished the third book Where There's a Wolf, There's a Way today, I'm going to have a swag-ish giveaway! My post for the review should be up on Monday or tuesday, keep an eye out!

In the meantime, I'm giving away two MH buttons!

Ta-da! One button is a pawprint, for Clawdeen who is the MC of the third book, and the other is a locker and Monster High school flag! They're the perfect size to pin to a backpack, which is where I collect my various buttons. Both buttons will go to one winner. US only please! Just fill out the form to enter! Contest ends October 31st, 2011.

For extra entries: +1 if you follow me, +2 if you repost my giveaway somewhere.

Good luck!

Contest/Privacy Policy-please view before entering.

~Jess

Wolfsbane

2011-10-07T13:23:00.000-07:00

When Calla Tor wakes up in the lair of the Searchers, her sworn enemies, she’s certain her days are numbered. But then the Searchers make her an offer—one that gives her the chance to destroy her former masters and save the pack—and the man—she left behind. Is Ren worth the price of her freedom? And will Shay stand by her side no matter what? Now in control of her own destiny, Calla must decide which battles are worth fighting and how many trials true love can endure and still survive.

Originality- 17/20

Overall Enjoyment- 17/20

Ending- 18/20

Cover- 19/20

Characters- 20/20

Total Score- 91/100

Grade- A

Teen

The Nightshade books are the new Vampire Academy Series for the werewolf fanbase. I myself am not exactly a huge werewolf fan but I absolutely love these books. After Nightshade, I was left on the edge of my seat for months until Wolfsbane came out. Now I'm equally eager for Bloodrose. Cremer does a great job with the endings of her books. She creates cliffhangers that just amaze me. Also, Calla, the main character, is one of my favorite characters in paranormal YA lit. She is strong, realistic and admirable. Any girl can relate to this heroine. The originality evident in this series also makes each books a fun, and new, read. Fans of The Vampire Academy, The Hunger Games and Shiver will love these books!
I read this book as part of the Frightful Fall Reviewers Challenge.

~Jess

Miki Falls (1-4)

2011-10-05T11:52:00.000-07:00

It's spring—a time for new beginnings. This is Miki Yoshida's final year of high school, and she's determined to make this the best year yet. Miki is in control . . .

. . . until Hiro Sakurai shows up.

The tall, handsome new student is hiding something, and Miki wants to know what. As she breaks down Hiro's defenses, she is unnerved by how much she cares about him. Too bad he is the one guy who can't care for her back. But Miki is falling for Hiro, and nothing's going to stop her from getting close to him—not even his dangerous secret.

As I've said before in my 2011 Manga Challenge Reviews, I'm not a big fan of manga or anime, simple because I haven't read/seen much of it. Yet I really connected to Miki in Miki Falls. It was a cute story over four volumes that had been separated by the season.
Again, how cute! Also I liked that the forbidden romance was actually a tad realistic, Miki and Hiro are just so cute together. This saga was full of surprises and obstacles that challenged their feelings towards one another. Maybe the story was a bit short and underdeveloped, but I enjoyed it all the same. It's a nice saga for a beginner manga-reader, like me, to start with.

Grade-A-

~Jess

Classic Tuesdays (7) Speak

2011-10-04T11:56:00.000-07:00

Speak Book Review: I'm sure plenty of people can argue with me on whether Speak is a classic or not. Some people, who ban books, will argue that it cannot be a classic because of it's "appaling content" and language. Others will simply say that because this book was only published in 1999, 12 years ago, it's not old or timeless enough to be a classic. Well let me give you the definition of classic that I plucked out of my pocket dictionary.

Clas'sic n. a book, work of art, etc. of highest excellence

Well there you go, no reference to the suggested age of a classic, Speak is definitely excellent and therefore, a classic.
Freshmen in the non-honors English class in my high school read Speak. As an honors English kid myself, I never got the opportunity to read it in a classroom. Finally, last week I decided to pick up a copy and start it. Obviously, I enjoyed it. It's a fast read, full of symbolism and lessons. However I am an honors student, I love to read, so I began to wonder what the non-honors classes thought of it. When I approached the students I got similar responses, "That one was okay...", "It gets better towards the end...", "That Melinda girl has problems...", however the most jarring thing someone said to me happened to occur in my own chemistry classroom. Some boy, now a junior although he had read the book as a freshman, saw that I was reading it and said, "That was a really good book. It was depressing, but a good story." Not only was this coming from a boy, but a jock, a football player. In my school, popular kids don't admit that they read and jocks tend to always be in the "needs improvement" category. I think that in itself proved to me just how universal Speak is.
Speak touched me. It holds not only a great story, but an emotional masterpiece. You don't have to like Melinda to get the message, I didn't like her. However I did like the creative language and the metaphors thrown in. Speak should continue to be read in schools/libraries/at home by the young/middle-aged/old, until the lesson is clear and Melinda's voice is heard.

My Grade for this Classic: A

Fun Fact: Go here to read what Wes Scroggins, who helped this book be added to the banned list, had to say about Speak, as well as the author's reaction.

~Jess

Banned Books Week Giveaway Winner!

2011-10-02T16:24:00.000-07:00

Congrats to...

Susie!

for winning our Banned Books Giveaway Contest! She won a copy of Jumpstart the World by Catherine Ryan Hyde! I really liked taking part in the hop and spending a week learning more about banning books. I hope some of you went out and read a few! Happy reading!

~Jess

IMM (33)

2011-10-02T07:16:00.000-07:00

In My Mailbox

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren. Each week we spotlight the books we've received for review, swapped, purchased, borrowed from a library, etc.

Recieved:

Cinder- Marissa Meyer

Purchased:

Vanish- Sophie Jordan

Dear Bully- Various Authors

The Secret Circle- L.J. Smith

Monster High: Where There's a Wolf, There's a Way- Lisi Harrison

Borrowing from Library:

The Power of Six- Pittacus Lore

This Dark Endeavor- Kenneth Oppel

Goddess Boot Camp- Tera Lynn Childs

Well that's my mailbox! Can't wait to start reading! What did you guys get in yours?

~Jess

Jumpstart the World: Banned Books Week Review and Rant

2011-09-30T12:54:00.000-07:00

Elle is a loner. She doesn’t need people. Which is a good thing, because she’s on her own: she had to move into her own apartment so her mother’s boyfriend won’t have to deal with her.
Then she meets Frank, the guy who lives next door. He’s older and has a girlfriend, but Elle can’t stop thinking about him. Frank isn’t like anyone Elle has ever met. He listens to her. He’s gentle. And Elle is falling for him, hard.
But Frank is different in a way that Elle was never prepared for: he’s transgender. And when Elle learns the truth, her world is turned upside down. Now she’ll have to search inside herself to find not only the true meaning of friendship but her own role in jumpstarting the world.

Unfortunately I only managed to finish one banned book during banned books week, however I was pleased with the book I finished. Jumpstart the World is a good one! It may not be the next Hunger Games, but it definitely is a unique coming-of-age story. The characters are realistic and I especially liked how relateble they are. This is where my rant begins.
In Jumpstart the World, there was many a time where I identified with Elle. Especially when she found out Frank was transgender and started avoiding him. While I don't know anyone who is transgender, I did have an alarming moment in 8th grade where some of my friends "came-out" and told me they were gay/bi. Immediately I began to treat them different. It was weird seeing my friend, lets call her Stacy, in the gym changing with us. I feel uncomfortable around her because," hey, she's bi, therefore she must be checking all of us out in the locker room." I was stupid. Our friendships were weird for a long time, until eventually I had pushed it aside. However all it took was Freshman year of high school to resurface. The GLBST (Gay Lesbian Bi Straight Transgender) Club had a Day of Silence Event and one of my friends took part. It only took one person to say a very degrading comment to my friend for me to get very, very angry. I joined the Event that day. After all, no matter who you are attracted to, you're a living, breathing human being.

However people tend to overlook that. It just makes me so angry. Even in the YA lit world, there's a lot of hate on the GLBT community. I've heard of plenty of books where the gay character had to be removed before the book would be punished. On the other hand there are plenty YA books with GBF (Gay Best Friend) characters, who simply help the self-esteem of the main character, and help them to guy-shop. I don't know about anyone else but I know none of me GLBST friends are like that. Obviously it's well-known that GLBST books don't sell as well as others, and don't become as popular as quickly. I believe it is because plenty of people are prejudice against or aren't educated about people of that sort. People are weirded out by, or make fun of, people they think are different. I think we just need to see people for who they are and not by what color their skin is or their sexual preference. Otherwise society will never improve. People should have the right to marry who they want to or go on dates in public or go to the hospital, without being worried about what others will say or do. The same goes for the book market. It should be easier to go find a book with GLBST characters in it who aren't stereotypical. It should be easy to find these books, but schools ban them.
Just saying guys, we need to stop hatin' and start appreciatin'. Thanks for listening to my rant, and if you're interested in owning a copy of Jumpstart the World, I'm having a giveaway here. However it ends soon, tomorrow Oct 1st at midnight. Good luck, and go out there and READ!
~Jess

Michael Vey: The Prisoner of Cell 25

2011-09-29T12:08:00.000-07:00

My name is Michael Vey, and the story I’m about to tell you is strange. Very strange. It’s my story.

To everyone at Meridian High School, Michael Vey is an ordinary fourteen-year-old. In fact, the only thing that seems to set him apart is the fact that he has Tourette’s syndrome. But Michael is anything but ordinary. Michael has special powers. Electric powers.

Michael thinks he's unique until he discovers that a cheerleader named Taylor also has special powers. With the help of Michael’s friend, Ostin, the three of them set out to discover how Michael and Taylor ended up this way, but their investigation brings them to the attention of a powerful group who wants to control the electric children – and through them the world. Michael will have to rely on his wits, powers, and friends if he’s to survive.

Originality- 17/20

Overall Enjoyment- 17/20

Ending- 18/20

Cover- 19/20

Characters- 20/20

Total Score- 91/100

Grade- A

Preteen/Teen

Michael Vey is a force to be reckoned with in the MG/YA world. While I'm not sure if this book is for a MG or a YA audience specifically, it certainly can appeal to tons of kids. This is a great new book for fans of Percy Jackson or maximum Ride. There is plenty of action, science and evil beings to keep anyone entertained. Also the main character Michael is just so realistic and relatable. Besides the superpowers, he's just a normal kid with a single Mom. He's afriad to talk to the beautiful girl in his class and he has Tourette's. Michael is the being behind the greatness of this novel. Kids will love him and definately sympathize with him. Without him, there is no book.

~Jess

A la Carte

2011-09-26T13:07:00.000-07:00

Seventeen-year-old Lainey of becoming a world famous chef one day and maybe even having her own cooking show. (Do you know how many African American female chefs there aren’t? And how many vegetarian chefs have their own shows? The field is wide open for stardom!) But when her best friend—and secret crush—suddenly leaves town, Lainey finds herself alone in the kitchen. With a little help from Saint Julia (Child, of course), Lainey finds solace in her cooking as she comes to terms with the past and begins a new recipe for the future.
Peppered with recipes from Lainey’s notebooks, this delicious debut novel finishes the same way one feels finishing a good meal—satiated, content, and hopeful.

Originality- 17/20

Overall Enjoyment- 11/20

Ending- 10/20

Cover- 17/20

Characters- 15/20

Total Score- 70/100

Grade- C-

Teen

A la Carte was just....not my cup of tea. I'm not a cook and I don't enjoy baking so the food aspect of the novel really didn't appeal to me, though nothing did. In the beginning of the story, I really liked Lainey as a main character because she was unique. She says it herself in the beginning of the book, how many African-American vegetarian cooks are there out there? However after bad decision and bad decision, she really started to get on my nerves. Her character was random and completely missed the mark. The ending too, annoyed me. No problems were solved and no characters evolved. The plot was just flat. This book just didn't do it for me and I probably would not recommend it.

~Jess

Banned Books Giveaway Hop!

2011-09-23T10:56:00.000-07:00

Banned book Week is here! And to celebrate, I'm taking part in the Banned Books Week Giveaway Hop! I'll be giving away a copy of Jumpstart the World by Catherine Ryan Hyde. I'm not sure if it's banned but it has been challenged.

Please just fill out the form to enter and don't forget to check out all the other giveaways here! Also this is US only because of my lack of cash to send books out internationally. :(

~Jess

Pile of Books Giveaway Winner!

2011-09-21T11:41:00.000-07:00

Congrats to...

Kara M. @ Great Imaginations

for winning our Pile of Books Giveaway Contest! She won a copy of The Eternal Ones by Kirsten Miller! The rest of the books will be donated to my local library. However that Giveaway was such a HUGE success, that I've decided to do one periodically! Look for more giveaways VERY soon!

~Jess

Friend Me

2011-09-19T12:51:00.000-07:00

Lucy, Izzy, and Nesta are sassy, sparkling...and utterly smitten.

In Mates, Dates, and Inflatable Bras, Lucy is at a turning point. She doesn't feel like she fits in with her friends Izzie and Nesta. Then Lucy sees the most wonderful boy, and things start to change — in all areas of her life.

Izzie is smitten with Mark in Mates, Dates, and Cosmic Kisses. When Izzie cancels plans just so she's available if Mark should call, Lucy and Nesta know they need to intervene. But how can they help when Izzie is convinced that she and Mark are destined to be together?

Nesta meets a boy of her own in Mates, Dates, and Designer Divas. Simon is rich and his lifestyle is totally glamorous. So is his friend Cressida. But competing for Simon's affections could cost Nesta more than she anticipated.

Originality- 17/20

Overall Enjoyment- 17/20

Ending- 17/20

Cover- 17/20

Characters- 18/20

Total Score- 86/100

Grade-B

Preteen

Friend Me is a reprint of the first three books in the Mates, Dates series. It includes Mates, Dates, and Inflatable Bras; Mates, Dates, and Cosmic Kisses; and Mates, Dates, and Designer Divas. The three stories are cute, British :) and have a common coming-of-age theme. The writing is also easy to read and the titles have really clever relations to the stories inside. However i believe it is the characters that made this series. Izzie, Lucy and Nesta are each amazingly different and special teens and it is their quirks and attitudes that keep these books, or reprint book, enjoyable. This is the perfect book series for any girl in her middle school/awkward phase. I wouldn't suggest it to kids any older though because the themes are rather young and the topics are slightly exaggerated. Still, it was a "sassy" read.

~Jess

Frightful Fall Reviews Challenge

2011-09-18T09:46:00.000-07:00

I love anything to do with spookyness or Halloween! Thus I've decided to give Orchid's Frightful Fall Reviews Challenge a go! Good luck everyone!

~Jess