Tuesday 31 January 2012

Top Ten Books I Think Would Make Great Book Club Picks

Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly blog feature hosted by the awesome people at The Broke and the Bookish   



Really interesting top ten this week.  I've decided to pick books that I think would cause debates and are pretty thought provoking.  The whole point of a book club would be to create conversation after all.

1. How I Live Now By Meg Rosoff
This definitely isn't my favourite book in the world, but it sure was one that had me thinking long after.  I would quite like to discuss this one myself

2. Delirium By Lauren Oliver
Another dystopian set book that is just incredible.  I would love to hear how people would feel about a world without love.

3. Ash By Malinda Lo
A retelling of Cinderella with a unique twist that's quite beautiful really

4. The Body Finder By Kimberley Derting
This is fantastic, but also has an aspect to it that I found very creepy.  Would love to see how others would react to that

5. Matched By Ally Condie
I know people that love this book (I love it) and I know people that really didn't like it at all.  Would be interesting to get a groups opinion

6. The Hunger Games trilogy By Suzanne Collins
I can predict I will be mentioning this every week to be honest.  Its such an epic tale that can captivate pretty much any ones minds - a must for a book club

7. Clockwork Angel By Cassandra Clare
This is a must for joining in on the steampunk / clockwork punk genre

8. The Taker By Alma Katsu
Definitely not one for a YA bookclub, but bookclub worthy for sure

9. Numbers By Rachel Ward
This was a real eye opener of a UK set book.  Was on my mind for quite some time

10. Wither By Lauren DeStefano
I love that this tackled some different subjects, like polygamy.

Sunday 29 January 2012

Guest Post - Sara Grant DARK PARTIES Theme Song

I've kind of been obsessing over Dark Parties since December last year.  I'm not gonna lie, the cover really got me to start with.  How cool does that look??  The more I then found out about it, the more I needed this book in my life.  I got it and loved it as I knew I would, and then was asked to be a part of Sara's blog tour - I was thrilled to be asked!  And the subject is RIGHT up my street!!!



Theme Songs

The 45 record played a significant role in my upbringing. I was five when my grandma gave me my first 45 – Playground in My Mind. Until then, my parents controlled the music in the house. We only had maybe a dozen record albums – most of which were Christmas themed. But this 7-inch vinyl disc was all mine.

If you’d set the arm a certain way on the old record players, it would play your favourite 45 over and over and over again. Getting ready for school, I’d select one song and let it repeat. I’d soon know every word of the lyrics and probably had – on special occasions – a few signature dance moves to accompany the song. I must have driven my family insane.

When I’d save enough of my allowance money, I’d walk down to Palmer Electric on Main Street in Washington, Indiana. They sold household appliances and, for some strange reason, records. They had a display of 45s. I can remember standing there for ages trying to decide which record to buy next. It was agonizing to only choose one.

Allie McBeal (an American comedy drama from the late 90s) introduced me to the idea of a theme song. Dr Tracey Clark instructed Allie to get a theme song, a song that she could play in her head to make her feel better. My theme songs have evolved over time. I admit that when it comes to theme tunes I lean a little bit to the cheesy side. I supposed for me that’s what a theme song is all about – a life-affirming message.

Sara Grant
I still have the same 45-record mentality. I get one song and play it over and over and over. Now I typically use earphones so no one has to listen. But there’s nothing better than unplugging the earphones, blasting the song as loud as your stereo – and tenancy agreement – will allow.

Here are a few of my favourite theme songs over the years. If you’ve read, Dark Parties, you may be surprised at the light tone of these selections, but it’s this levity that lets me write from a dark place. I defy you to listen to any of these and not be in just a little better mood than you were before.

Tide is High by Blondie
Ah, unrequited love. I was in high school. M.L. declined my invitation to prom, which meant I didn’t attend my junior prom. I played this – what I’d now call a ‘stalker ballad’ – to remind me that I’d eventually get my man. And, yeah, a few years later, we dated.
“The tide is high but I’m holding on. I’m gonna be your number one. I’m not the kinda girl who gives up just like that.”

You Raise Me Up by Josh Groban (definitely not the Westlife version.)
This song represents my parents. I am very lucky to have two loving parents who always support me.
“I am strong when I am on your shoulders. You raise me up to more than I can be.”

One Girl Revolution by Superchick
This girl-power song from the Legally Blond soundtrack is just too much fun.
“I wear a disguise. I’m just your average Jane. The super doesn’t stand for model, but it doesn’t mean I’m plain. If all you see is how I look you miss the super chick within. And I christen you Titanic. Under estimate and swim.”

Watch Me Shine by Joanna Pacitti
I used to run half marathons. This was on my race day soundtrack. For the last mile of my first race, I listened to this song again and again. I’d been training for four months. I’d just lost 100 pounds (that’s 7.2 stone). Crossing that finish line was a huge milestone in my life.
“Better watch out. Going for the knock out. And I won’t stop til I’m on top now. Not gonna give up til I get what’s mine...I’m taking over so watch me shine.”

Defy Gravity from Wicked by Idina Menzel and Kristen Chenoweth
I love the theatre. Growing up, I was in every school play and musical. I was an acting major in college for one whole semester. (Then I realised I just wasn’t that good.) I’ve seen Wicked the musical several times. It’s got a major feel-good factor. If I’m ever feeling defeated, this is the song that I select and press ‘play’.
“I’m through accepting limits cause someone says they’re so. Some things I cannot change but til I try I’ll never know.”

The Climb by Joe McElderry
This is more of my life philosophy than a song. Yeah, X Factor is one of my guilty pleasures. It’s probably the song that best represents my journey to publication. It’s been a long, rocky climb. I wrote my first story for children 20 years ago when my niece Megan was born. I got my first book deal the year she turned eighteen. So much of the writing business is about figuring out how to keep the faith. It’s about learning and trying and failing and trying again.
“There’s always gonna be another mountain. I’m always gonna want to make it move...Ain’t about how fast you get there. Ain’t about what’s waiting on the other side. It’s the climb.”

So what’s your theme song?


What a great guest post!!!  And such wonderful sentiments behind the song choices.  I actually did a guest post myself a while a go, where I picked my theme songs and it was rather cheesy at times too, but hey cheese is GOOD!!!

You can find my review for DARK PARTIES Here


Many Thanks to Sara And Indigo for the post

In My Mailbox (49)

In My Mailbox Is An Awesome Blog Post Idea Hosted By The Story Siren
Book links will take you to Amazon

I was an extremely good girl this week and didn't buy a single book - well I did order one, but that doesn't count till its in my hands!!
I did get sent some great books for review though, so my book habit wasn't completely starved.....

For Review

 These were all from the fantastic Simon And Schuster - Many thanks to Kat

I've not read any of Sarah's other books, but this one sounds really good.  I'm all for some dark romance!!

I need to start this series, I hear all great things about it!!

This isn't the first book I would have checked out, but I'm excited to give it a read


These were sent to me by the lovely people at Quercus, THANKS!!!

This looks incredible.  I'm so eager to read some of Jennifer's work!!

Cat is uber cool, really happy to have a copy of this finally!!

I've seen things about these books, but don't know a huge amount about them.  Excited to give them a go!!

Hope you have had a wonderful week??

Leanne
xoxo

Friday 27 January 2012

Title Reveal: Laini Taylors Sequel to Daughter Of Smoke And Bone

Now us bloggers are quite an excitable bunch.  Any book news and we do tend to have little excited freak outs.  All week Laini Taylor has been saying that the title to the follow up book of Daughter Of Smoke And Bone was coming.  Today it was finally revealed and will be called.......



What a fantastic title.  Matches up to the awesomeness of Daughter Of Smoke And Bone easily.  Now I just wonder what lies between the sheets of the book??  You can find a little teaser snippet over on Laini's blog.

Days Of Blood & Starlight is due to be released in Autumn 2012 - that feels so long away!!!

Review - The Other Life By Susanne Winnacker

"3 years, 1 month, 1 week and 6 days since I’d seen daylight. One-fifth of my life. 98,409,602 seconds since the heavy, steel door had fallen shut and sealed us off from the world

Sherry has lived with her family in a sealed bunker since things went wrong up above. But when they run out of food, Sherry and her dad must venture outside. There they find a world of devastation, desolation...and the Weepers: savage, mutant killers.

When Sherry's dad is snatched, she joins forces with gorgeous but troubled Joshua - an Avenger, determined to destroy the Weepers.

But can Sherry keep her family and Joshua safe, when his desire for vengeance threatens them all?" - taken from Goodreads.com

First things first - AMAZING cover.  Very simple yet so effective.  I love the innocence of the butterfly, but when you look more closely you can see spidery hands, people running & blood dripping.  The city setting and also the barb wire near the title are all points that are in the story.  Just Awesome!!

Basically the idea of this book is pretty horrifying.  A rabies like infection has taken hold of people and the only way to save yourself is to lock yourself away from all other people.  This is the story of Sherry and her family.  They have lived in their bunker for over 3 years.  The thought of everyone potentially getting some awful disease turning you into a zombie is pretty scary, then add on the fact that you have to live with JUST your family for 3 years solid Eeeeek!!  I love my family to death but I don't know if I could cope with that!!!

But things as you would expect happen that mean Sherry and her Dad have to venture outside.  This is where the story really started for me.  The realisation of the devastation caused by the zombiefying illness.  It also made me think though, if as speculated we were unlucky enough to have a chemical war in our real life, then maybe this wouldn't be so different from what life could be like.  That is truly terrifying.

At the beginning of each chapter there is a page or so of content from Sherry's 'other life'  this is her life before the outbreak.  It was wonderful reading the simplicities & minor worries followed by the actual horrors they are living now. 

I loved that a first love story was incorporated into the book.  It gave me a little hope that in the midst of tragedy and living hell, light can still shine through.  That's the hope we all need to live by.

This is a fantastic story that for me was like a cross between Resident Evil & Lost.  You are constantly kept on your toes with fear and lightness, followed by horror.  There is even brief bits of humour, sometimes quite black.  I'm desperate to find out what will happen to everyone in the next part of the story 'The Life Beyond' 

Rating 4 1/2 Out Of 5

Due For Release 1st February 2012

Published In The UK By Usborne

This Can Be Purchased HERE and From Good Book Retailers

Thursday 26 January 2012

Cover Reveal: Deadly Hemlock (UK) By Kathleen Peacock

I've been hearing some really promising stuff about Kathleen Peacock's book Deadly Hemlock.  But we didn't have a whole lot of information for the UK release.  Finally we have a gorgeous cover to book lust after....


I think on first look you can't see how cool this is.  You really have to concentrate and then you can see the wolf face taking shape in the trees.  The girl looking back is amazing too, making you wonder just what she may be seeing.

If the cover is anything to go by then this is a story I can't wait for!!!!

Wednesday 25 January 2012

Books That Make Me Go Oooooh (32) Every Other Day By Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Waiting On Wednesday is a brilliant book blog feature hosted by Breaking The Spine      

Every Other Day By Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Published In The UK By Quercus Books
Due For Release Feb 2012
Amazon LINK
Goodreads LINK

"Every other day, Kali D'Angelo is a normal sixteen-year-old girl. She goes to public high school. She attends pep rallies. She's human.

And then every day in between . . .She's something else entirely.

Though she still looks like herself, every twenty-four hours predatory instincts take over and Kali becomes a feared demon-hunter with the undeniable urge to hunt, trap, and kill zombies, hellhounds, and other supernatural creatures. Kali has no idea why she is the way she is, but she gives in to instinct anyway. Even though the government considers it environmental terrorism.

When Kali notices a mark on the lower back of a popular girl at school, she knows instantly that the girl is marked for death by one of these creatures. Kali has twenty-four hours to save her and, unfortunately, she'll have to do it as a human. With the help of a few new friends, Kali takes a risk that her human body might not survive. . .and learns the secrets of her mysterious condition in the process."


Firstly I should admit I haven't read Jennifer's wolves series of books.  I have them sitting all pretty on my bookshelf & I'm dying to read them, but something always seems to get in the way.  This time I plan to get in at the beginning read it immediately.   And what a cracker of a book it sounds.  Bring on the release!!!

Tuesday 24 January 2012

Top Ten Freebie: Books You Loved But Never Wrote A Review For

Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly blog feature hosted by the awesome people at The Broke and the Bookish  



This weeks Top Ten list is a freebie, so we could make up a top ten of our choice or use an older top ten that you maybe wanted to do, but didn't get the chance.  I went for that latter and picked Top Ten Books You Loved But Never Wrote A Review For........

1. Harry Potter Books By J K Rowling
Easily my favourite series of books.  When I read these I don't even know if book blogging really happened.  I could have done with the book blogging community back then though!!

2. Study Series By Maria V Snyder
I read these a little while before I started blogging.  To be honest if I had of review Poison Study it would have been one big gush fest.  I loved it just a bit!!

3. A Certain Slant Of Light By Laura Whitcomb
This is one of the first books I read after devouring the Twilight books.  Such a beautiful story, that I go on about rather a lot!!

4. Twilight Books By Stephenie Meyer
If I had written a review about these back when I read them again it would have been a big old love review.  Was I to review it now, I think it would be rather different.  I can see a hell of a lot of faults with it now that I didn't at the time.  That's not say that I don't like the books anymore.  They will always hold a little part of my heart.

5. Prophecy Of The Sisters By Michelle Zink
This was a slightly unexpected love of mine.

6. A Great And Terrible Beauty By Libba Bray
Another gorgeous story & fantastic settings

7. Jane Eyre By Charlotte Bronte
This doesn't really need explaining

8. Shiver By Maggie Stiefvater
Boy did I love this!!  Was a nice change from vampires too!

9. The Demons Lexicon By Sarah Rees Brennan
I hadn't read that many YA English set books before this one

10. City Of Bones By Cassandra Clare
WOW what an introduction to the world of Cassie. 

Monday 23 January 2012

Strange Chemistry News

The awesome new imprint from Angry Robot Books 'STRANGE CHEMISTRY' have been teasing us for a while now, with their official release launch in September.  We've been waiting to hear of authors signed to this exciting new company and we finally have the release of TWO authors names & their exciting books!

First Up -

SHIFT By KIM CURRAN

This is a Science Fiction thriller with a sequel planned for 2013!!

Second -


POLTERGEEKS By SEAN CUMMINGS

This is a Teen urban fantasy that is said to be dark & funny - the perfect combo!!  A Follow-up to this is also planned for 2013

You can find all the thrilling details to the announcement On Strange Chemistry's website.  I for one am super excited for this new publishing group!!!

Sunday 22 January 2012

In My Mailbox (48)

In My Mailbox Is An Awesome Blog Post Idea Hosted By The Story Siren
Book links will take you to Amazon


I wasn't expecting a particularly exciting week to be honest.  Didn't have any books ordered that were due & no plans.  But how things can change at short notice.  Got some great buys, got sent a book & got an invite to a fantastic event.  So yeah I think my week worked out!!  

Bought

I have wanted this since I heard about it last year.  I'm so intrigued by the idea of it!!

I have heard such great stuff about this and so had to treat myself to it!!


Received

I've wanted this one since last July - it just sounds incredible!  Thanks to Puffin for sending it to me!!

 So the special event I got to go to was a dinner with Amanda Hocking hosted by the fantastic people at Macmillan.  I'll write up a full report on the event soon, but in the mean time these are the goodies I got

This sounds awesome!!  And of course is signed!!!
This I am really excited by!!!

I'd not heard of this one before, but have been told its fantastic.  Shall get to this as soon as I can!!
This is a bit different to what I'm used to.  Hoping it will be interesting though!

That was my week of bookish goodness!!!  Till next week

Leanne
xoxo

Thursday 19 January 2012

Review - Tempest By Julie Cross

"Jackson Meyer is hiding a secret. He can time-travel. But he doesn't know how he does it, how to control it or what it means. When Jackson, and his girlfriend Holly, find themselves in fatal danger, Jackson panics and catapults himself two years into his past, further than he's ever managed before, and this time he can't find a way back to the future. All the rules of time-travel he's experienced so far have been broken and Jackson has no choice but to pretend to be his younger self whilst he figures out a solution. Jackson is tearing himself apart with guilt and frustration, wondering if Holly survived. He's also become the target of an unknown enemy force and it seems even his dad is lying to him. Jackson is racing against time to save the girl he loves, but to do that he must first discover the truth about his family and himself. And stay alive." 

I'd not heard of this book this book till last October.  I was at a Becca Fitzpatrick talk and someone asked why she decided to change the name of her book from Tempest to Silence.  She was very happy to tell us that a new author was releasing a book of the same name & was asked if there was the chance her title could be changed.  Becca being the sweetest person ever seemed to be happy to do that, awww!!
My interest was caught already and so my hunt began for the book.

The cover is just gorgeous.  Strangely it is kind of similar looking to Becca Fitzpatrick's first book Hush Hush, which is also a stunner.  I do love the addition of a girl to this.  And just the way they are reaching for each other.  Its beautiful and so fitting with the story.

I was so quickly drawn into this story, although it did take quite some getting used to reading from a boys point of view.  Not that anything too smutty or inappropriate was said at all, but it just felt strange for me to put myself in Jackson's place and read his feelings for Holly.  I very quickly got used to this and my head adapted to the role change.  Its definitely made me more understanding of how it could be difficult for a guy to read from a girls point of view.  But its great too, as it makes you look at things from another perspective - something we should all do from time to time.

One huge thing I noticed with this book is that it needs your full attention.  The speech and the story can be quite jumpy and you can feel a little confused sometimes.  It just made me want to immerse myself in the story more and forget my surroundings.  It certainly keeps you on your toes.

There were some scenes in the book that were very poignant and touching for me & I would imagine many readers out there.  It absolutely had me wondering what would I do if I got the chance to go back and speak to people that are no longer here.  I also realised how heartbreaking it would be too.  It is so thought provoking.

Without a doubt this had a young adult 'Time Travellers Wife' feel to it, with a secret agent twist to it.   Its a winning formula I have to say.  I'm so excited for the next part to this amazing debut!!!

Rating 4 1/2 Out Of 5

Published In The UK By Macmillan

This Can Be Purchased HERE and from good book retailers

Wednesday 18 January 2012

Books That Make Me Go Oooooh (31) Starters By Lissa Price

Waiting On Wednesday is a brilliant book blog feature hosted by Breaking The Spine     

Starters By Lissa Price
Published In The UK By Doubleday
Due For Release April 2012
Amazon LINK
Goodreads LINK

"Callie lost her parents when the Spore Wars wiped out everyone between the ages of twenty and sixty. She and her little brother, Tyler, go on the run, living as squatters with their friend Michael and fighting off renegades who would kill them for a cookie. Callie's only hope is Prime Destinations, a disturbing place in Beverly Hills run by a mysterious figure known as the Old Man.

He hires teens to rent their bodies to Enders—seniors who want to be young again. Callie, desperate for the money that will keep her, Tyler, and Michael alive, agrees to be a donor. But the neurochip they place in Callie's head malfunctions and she wakes up in the life of her renter, living in her mansion, driving her cars, and going out with a senator's grandson. It feels almost like a fairy tale, until Callie discovers that her renter intends to do more than party—and that Prime Destinations' plans are more evil than Callie could ever have imagined. . . ."


WOW this sounds so amazing!!  I'm literally writing this thinking I need to read this book NOW!!!  The whole idea of it is rather disturbing, yet totally fascinating.  I can already imagine this as a movie!!!

Tuesday 17 January 2012

Top Ten Books I'd Recommend To Someone Who Doesn't Read YA

Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly blog feature hosted by the awesome people at The Broke and the Bookish 

Mmmm, this one is tricky.  There are certain YA books that I adore, but it doesn't mean I would recommend them to everyone, as reading is so personal.  Guess I'll go with the titles that I felt were written the very best!!

1. The Hunger Games Trilogy By Suzanne Collins
These tick so many boxes, they are gripping, they have action, they have romance, they have it all!! 

2. The Study series By Maria V Snyder
I'm not a big reader of fantasy, but these had me utterly hooked.  A great inbetween read to ease you into fantasy realms

3. Delirium By Lauren Oliver
I actually gave this to someone that had never read YA.  They loved it!!  Its such an amazing story!!

4. Divergent By Veronica Roth
I love this book with all my heart!  I tell everyone to read it

5. Wither By Lauren DeStefano
Such a fabulous book.  I really connected with something in this & hope others would too

6. Across The Universe By Beth Revis
This puts a great sci fi spin on YA & could appeal to lots of readers that want to branch out

7. A Certain Slant Of Light By Laura Whitcomb
Such a beautiful ghost story.  Got me thinking about the value of life

8. Matched By Ally Condie
This was the first dystopian I'd really read & got me addicted to the style

9. Clockwork Angel By Cassandra Clare
This is like steampunk, but more clockwork punk.  And set in an old London - just brilliant

10. The Body Finder By Kimberly Derting
This one was rather chilling.  A great introduction to YA!!

Monday 16 January 2012

India Dark Giveaway - WINNER

The Very lucky winner of the India Dark Giveaway I held last week is.......

Laura from


CONGRATULATIONS!!!

Thanks to everyone that entered!!!!

Cover Reveal: UK Pandemonium By Lauren Oliver

This week Hodder & Stoughton released the UK cover for Pandemonium, the exciting sequel to Delirium by Lauren Oliver.  It feels we have been waiting forever for this release and I couldn't click fast enough to see it.


My initial thought was 'Interesting'  I can't say I was totally in love with it straight away.  I liked that there was the bird theme in keeping with the first book.  I also thought it was interesting that they have gone with the same colour scheme as the American cover, but a completely different style.
I'm very intrigued to see if the cover is anything key to this part of the story.  I think this one will be a grower for me!!

Pandemonium is due for release in the UK on 1st March 2012

Sunday 15 January 2012

In My Mailbox (47)

In My Mailbox Is An Awesome Blog Post Idea Hosted By The Story Siren
Book links will take you to Amazon


Had a great book week.  Got a nice few surprises in the mail - Always the best type of surprise!!!

FOR REVIEW

I'm due to take part in the blog tour for this soon, so was sent a copy to familiarise myself with the story

This was sent to me by the wonderful Nina From INDIGO.  So excited to read this one - sounds amazing

This was sent by the lovely Madeline from Atom.  I got a message about this the other day, whilst I was in Ikea - gotta admit I did a happy squeal - really looking forward to starting this!


WON

I Won this from the Awesome people at My Kinda Book.  I have already read it & OMG its just AMAZING!!  So happy to have my own shiny copy!!


BOUGHT

I know I'm naughty, but I just HAD to have a gorgeous American Hardback copy of this!!!  Just need to find some time to read it now!!!


That was my week in books, What wonders did your mailbox bring you this week??

Leanne
xoxo

Friday 13 January 2012

Review - Dark Parties By Sara Grant

"Sixteen-year-old Neva has been trapped since birth. She was born and raised under the Protectosphere, in an isolated nation ruled by fear, lies, and xenophobia. A shield "protects" them from the outside world, but also locks the citizens inside. But there's nothing left on the outside, ever since the world collapsed from violent warfare. Or so the government says...

Neva and her best friend Sanna believe the government is lying and stage a "dark party" to recruit members for their underground rebellion. But as Neva begins to uncover the truth, she realizes she must question everything she's ever known, including the people she loves the most"


Firstly fantastic UK cover.  Not only is it eye catching, but the pages also have a somewhat velveteen feel to them.  You can see lots of little flecks on the cover, which I presumed to be snow flakes.  That little edition makes a lot of sense as you read the book.  Look out for it!!!

I heard about this last year and had a somewhat instant attraction to the look and feel of it.   Keeping with the popular dystopian theme, which I adore and so it couldn't arrive quick enough!!


Initially it took my head a little getting used to reading this as its written in first person - a style that I personally don't read that often.  I was surprised at how quickly I got used to this.  I think I found the story so engrossing that its easy to just get swept away.


The idea of the protectosphere freaked me out rather a lot.  Its something I'd never really thought of but once you start reading this story you can't help but to kind of extend on it again.  Imagining being confined to a small area forever brought on a case of claustrophobia I have never felt before.  And then you go on to read the side effects of living in this confined space for many years and you quickly see how this would be such a bad thing.  I also couldn't help but imagine the place under the sphere to be England, this is something that has not been confirmed to me so I don't mean to put ideas in your head, just for me it felt all the more familiar.


The story then becomes even more creepy by people just disappearing and being forgotten.  This factor kind of broke me.  Having lost people in my life, its their memory that keeps them going.  In Dark Parties they want every part of them to disappear and that thought proved what a hard place this world would be to live in.


I think you could say I got thoroughly engrossed in this story, even placing myself in Neva's shoes - thinking what would I do??  I know I would be no where near as gutsy as her character.  My heart was literally pounding at one point in story.


There are so many twists and turns with the characters, my head was spinning at one point.  I honestly had no idea who I should trust & just when I thought I had made up my mind something would happen to change it all over again.


I cannot recommend this book highly enough.  I was on the edge of my seat for most of the story and am so eager to see where the story will go next.  Do I really have to wait nearly a year??

Rating 4 Out Of 5

Published In The UK By Indigo

This Can Be Purchased HERE and at all good bookstores

I'm taking part in the blog tour for this wonderful book!  Please come back on 29th January to see what Sara has to say!!!

Thursday 12 January 2012

Walker Undercover Bloggers Event

In November I got a super exciting email telling me about a bloggers event that Walker Books Undercover were holding & they asked if I would like to attend.  I didn't even have to think about it - they got a great big YES PLEASE!!!

10th December comes and its the day of the presentation - I don't know why but I was feeling super nervous for this one.  Once again my Mum tagged along for the journey with me, making my attendance possible.  We left with plenty of time and yet I managed to be slightly late - I don't know how??!
I arrived to this gorgeous little pub, but it looked rather deserted.  I saw some guys through the window though and they opened the door, stony silent.  I asked if the bloggers thing was there and he just kind of pointed in the direction of the bar.  I nervously walked up still unsure of where I was and told to go up some creaky stairs.  This actually led to the most adorable attic room, with fabulous mis-matched chairs and tables giving this amazing antique look - just the sort of place bookish events should take place. 
I sat down as quietly as I could, but still managed to interrupt the presentation slightly to everyone at Walker I'M SORRY!!
There were these stunning old fashioned styled tea pots on the tables with cute little tea cups and saucers.  Even the tea was proper tea leaves and not the tea bag style that I am so used too.  You have to use these cute little strainers to pour your tea.  Well me being as nervous as I was managed to not only get a it of tea in the cup, but also over the table.  I couldn't believe what a fool I was making of myself and how badly I must have been coming across.  Honestly I am normally much tidier!!
They also bought in the cutest tea platters, that had little sandwiches and cakes.  It was all so perfect apart from me and my clumsiness

Anyway let me get on to the exciting part which is the books......

Blink And Caution By Tim Wynne-Jones
"Boy, did Blink get off on the wrong floor. All he wanted was to steal some breakfast for his empty belly, but instead he stumbled upon a fake kidnapping and a mobile phone dropped by an "abducted" CEO, giving Blink a link to his perfect blonde daughter. Now Blink is on the run, but it'll be OK as long as he's smart enough to stay in the game and keep Captain Panic locked in his hold. Enter a girl named Caution. As in Caution: Watch Your Step. She's also on the run, from a drug-dealer boyfriend and from a nightmare in her past that won't let her go. When she spies Blink at the bus station, Caution can see he's an easy mark. But there's something about this naïve, skinny street punk, whom she only wanted to rob, that tugs at her heart, a heart she thought deserved not to feel. Charged with suspense and intrigue, this taut novel trails two deeply compelling characters as they forge a blackmail scheme that is foolhardy at best, disastrous at worst - along with a fated, tender partnership that will offer them each a rare chance for redemption." 
We were all given copies of this one.  Its not the kind of book I would typically go and pick, so am interested to see what I think of it.

Daylight Saving By Edward Hogan
"When Daniel Lever is dragged to Leisure World Holiday Complex for some "time away" with his depressed dad, his expectations are low. Daniel is overweight, he hates sport, and his father has brought along his beloved tomato plant. But soon Daniel spots a girl swimming in the fake lake. Lexi is elegant and smart, but very mysterious. Why are her bruises getting worse each time she and Daniel meet? And is her watch really ticking backwards? A dark figure stalks the pair, and as British summer time approaches, Daniel has to act quickly. Their souls depend on it."
This one I am super excited to start.  I love the idea of it being set in a leisure park - definitely not the place you would expect to find ghostly going ons!!

Girl, Stolen By April Henry
"Sixteen year-old Cheyenne Wilder is sleeping in the back of a car while her mom fills her prescription at the pharmacy. Before Cheyenne realizes what's happening, their car is being stolen--with her inside! Griffin hadn’t meant to kidnap Cheyenne, all he needed to do was steal a car for the others. But once Griffin's dad finds out that Cheyenne’s father is the president of a powerful corporation, everything changes—now there’s a reason to keep her. What Griffin doesn’t know is that Cheyenne is not only sick with pneumonia, she is blind. How will Cheyenne survive this nightmare, and if she does, at what price?"
Another thriller book that sounds edge of your seat & pretty scary too.  One that I am interested in learning more about

Kill You Last By Todd Strasser
"Are you dying to be famous...? It seems that every girl in Soundview wants to be a model, singer or actress. They all need super-glam photos for agents and scouts - which works out perfectly for Shelby's photographer dad. He makes a fortune taking pictures of these wannabes ... until the girls start to disappear and he is accused of murder. Shelby knows her dad is innocent and is determined to prove it, and that means finding the real killer."
Somehow I have not heard of these books - SHOCK!!!  This is the third title by Todd and I hope to read them all


Body Blow By Peter Cocks
"Eddie Savage is hiding out in the West Midlands after his near-fatal shooting during the Kelly affair. But while the physical wounds are fading, the emotional scars are taking longer to heal. And when Eddie finds himself heading for the south of Spain with an unlikely travelling companion, it is as if, by some magnetic force, he is being drawn back into the criminal underworld. Tommy Kelly may be safely locked up back at home, but on the Costa del Sol the Kelly organization is still alive. And kicking"
It was at this event I found out about these books.  The first one is actually set all around where I live (which isn't actually very comforting) Sounds very thrilling!


US cover - may change
The Anti-Prom By Abby McDonald

"They’ve spent years at the same high school without speaking a word to one another, but that’s all about to change. Popular Bliss was having the perfect prom until she found her BFF and boyfriend making out in the back of a limo. Bad girl Jolene wouldn’t be caught dead at the prom, yet here she is, trussed up in pink ruffles, risking her reputation for some guy - some guy who is forty minutes late. And shy, studious, über-planner Meg never counted on her date’s standing her up and leaving her idling in the parking lot outside the prom. Get ready for The Anti-Prom, Abby McDonald’s hilarious, heart-tugging tale about three girls and one unforgettable prom night"
The one sounds like a real teen rom dramedy.  One I may just have to check out!! 


US Cover - may change
The Girl Who Could Silence The Wind By Meg Medina
"Sixteen-year-old Sonia Ocampo was born on the night of the worst storm Tres Montes had ever seen. And when the winds mercifully stopped, an unshakable belief in the girl's protective powers began. All her life, Sonia has been asked to pray for sick mothers or missing sons, as worried parents and friends press silver milagros in her hands. Sonia knows she has no special powers, but how can she disappoint those who look to her for solace? Still, her conscience is heavy, so when she gets a chance to travel to the city and work in the home of a wealthy woman, she seizes it. At first, Sonia feels freedom in being treated like all the other girls. But when news arrives that her beloved brother has disappeared while looking for work, she learns to her sorrow that she can never truly leave the past or her family behind. With deeply realized characters, a keen sense of place, a hint of magical realism, and a flush of young romance, Meg Medina tells the tale of a strongwilled, warmhearted girl who dares to face life's harsh truths as she finds her real power"
This one excited me a lot.  It sounds quite beautiful and captivating 



Frostfire By Zoe Marriott
"Frost is cursed - possessed by a wolf demon that brings death everywhere she goes. Desperate to find a cure, she flees her home, only to be captured by the Ruan Hill Guard. Trapped until she can prove she is not an enemy, Frost grows increasingly close to the Guard’s charismatic leader Luca and his second in command, the tortured Arian. Torn between two very different men, Frost fears that she may not be able to protect either of them ... from herself"
I'm yet to read a book by Zoe, but have heard nothing but amazing things.  This sounds like it will be no exception!! 



US Cover - may change
Diabolical By Cynthia Leitich Smith
"When "slipped" angel Zachary and his werewolf pal, Kieren, arrive under suspicious circumstances to a mysterious New England boarding school, they quickly find themselves in a hellish lockdown with an intriguing assortment of secretive, hand-picked students. Plagued by demon dogs, hallucinatory wall décor, a sadistic instructor, and a legendary fire-breathing monster, will they somehow manage to escape? Or will the devil have his due? Best-selling author Cynthia Leitich Smith unites heroes from the previous three novels in the Tantalize Series - including Zachary's girl, Miranda, and Kieren's love, Quincie - along with a fascinating cast of all-new characters for a suspenseful, action-packed clash between the forces of heaven and hell."
Fourth book in a series by Cynthia, where all the books are standalone but linked in certain ways.  I need to catch up on the series!! 

Next up we got to hear from one of the guys behind the development of covers.  We learnt about the process for 'Daylight Saving' and all that goes into it.  Seriously we have NO IDEA how hard they work on the finished product!!!  

Then we were introduced to Edward Hogan, author of Daylight Saving.  We had a really long chat with him, again discussing where his idea came from to actually putting it on paper.  We even discussed his input on the cover which was zero, so he liked being able to hear about it with us.

Then sadly it was time for us all to go our separate ways.  It was a truly wonderful event that I was honoured to attend.  I cannot wait to read all of Walkers titles in 2012!!