Philippa Gregory Q&A and Changeling Widget

Changeling, the first YA novel by Philippa Gregory is finally released this week!!  I for one am so excited for this amazing looking new series.  To celebrate the launch a fantastic widget has been created which you can find here -  http://www.orderofdarkness.com/widget/

Simon & Schuster have also done this incredible question and answer session with Philippa Gregory, which I am thrilled to share with you!!!

How was writing a book for teens different from writing a book for adults? I don't think there is any difference for me in terms of the craft of writing. I think that the quality and enjoyment of the novel should be at least equal to a book for adults. 

      

          Do you have a favourite character in your new teen series? I created the two principal characters of Luca and Isolde and liked them so much, but then I was amazed to find that the servant character of Frieze just jumped off the page. He is funny and full of common sense, wonderful with animals and has a great loving nature. His role just grew through the story as I came to like writing about him more and more. He is very important in book 2, and I think I will end up with a cast of 4 principal characters rather than 2.

   

         When you are writing a multi-book series, do you work from an outline (know all the beats) or do you work toward an ending (know how it all ends)? This has been the first series that I have written that is not anchored completely by the historical record, so I have revelled in the freedom of it and have worked on each novel quite independently. I know where the whole series ultimately ends, but I don't know yet how I will get there. It's a truly creative process, I feel as if I am making it up as I go along and loving this.

          Why did you set your new teen series in the 15^th century? The date of 1453 is such a key one - people really believed that it was the end of the world. It is this belief that means that Luca has his job in exploring the "end of days" and also means that there are so many manifestations of the supernatural that people report.

       

 How is it working with fictional characters rather than real historical figures It has been a real holiday from the demands of accuracy and research. It has set the novelist in me free for the first time in a long time. I love discovering and researching the historical characters, but to be able to create characters from imagination has been a real treat.

Review - Bloodlines By Richelle Mead

This is a spin off series and some spoilers for the Vampire Academy series are possible


"When alchemist Sydney is ordered into hiding to protect the life of Moroi princess Jill Dragomir, the last place she expects to be sent is a human private school in Palm Springs, California. But at their new school, the drama is only just beginning."

I was originally expecting quite a different cover for the UK release, but at sometime the designers must have decided to use the same as the US release.  I actually think this was a pretty good decision.  Everyone knows I am not a fan of faces on covers, but I kind of expect to see them on Richelle's books now and it works.  I particularly love the tattoo design on who would be Sydney's face.  Strangely though I'm not tempted to get this tattoo, like I wanted a Molnija mark.

I've been a big fan of the Vampire Academy books for a long time now.  Obviously I was happy to see that series get a resolution, but also bummed that it was over.  Imagine my excitement when I heard of a spin off series!!!  I loved that it was decided to develop Sydney's character more.  She was pretty awesome and seemed like she had more layers.  This book really does show that.  I was also excited to read more of the vampire Academy world, but from a different perspective.  It really was fascinating to read.

I really enjoyed how Sydney's character changed even further.  You could see how she starts off very controlled and regimented, even after her adventures in the VA books she was still trying to be what people wanted her to be.  This does take somewhat of a turn and its so empowering.  Rebellion is so fun to read!!

I was quite surprised by the inclusion of a bullying storyline.  Bullying is a huge hate of mine, having been through it myself.  It actually broke my heart a little to read that it even happens in a 'vampire' world.  I guess I did become quite involved with the story!!!

It was fantastic that there were whole new stories and characters, yet old characters popped up here and there.  Kind of like seeing old friends unexpectedly whilst shopping.

The book concluded with one whole story being resolved, yet leaving room for more questions and stories to evolve.  I can't wait to see what comes next!!

Rating 3 Out Of 5

Published In The UK By Puffin / Razorbill

This Can Be Purchased HERE and at good book retailers

Review - Daughter Of Smoke And Bone By Laini Taylor

"Errand requiring immediate attention. Come. 
The note was on vellum, pierced by the talons of the almost-crow that delivered it. Karou read the message. 'He never says please', she sighed, but she gathered up her things. 
When Brimstone called, she always came. 
In general, Karou has managed to keep her two lives in balance. On the one hand, she's a seventeen-year-old art student in Prague; on the other, errand-girl to a monstrous creature who is the closest thing she has to family. Raised half in our world, half in 'Elsewhere', she has never understood Brimstone's dark work - buying teeth from hunters and murderers - nor how she came into his keeping. She is a secret even to herself, plagued by the sensation that she isn't whole.
Now the doors to Elsewhere are closing, and Karou must choose between the safety of her human life and the dangers of a war-ravaged world that may hold the answers she has always sought"

I've seen so many covers for this book that I was quite confused as to which one was for the UK & as I was reading an ARC version that confused me slightly more.  I believe the cover picture I have posted is the final UK cover & I think it is rather pretty!!  The font style is very eye catching.  I would definitely pick this up in any book store!!

From the start I found this engaging and exciting.  The setting was quite different to anything I have read before & the writing style was both fun and refreshing.  Laini really does this whole writing thing in her own style and I like it a lot!!!

The lead character Karou, is possibly one of the feistiest characters I have read of.  She is seriously awesome & not very ethical in her wish use.  Secretly we'd all love to serve up some justice the way she does & so she is now my book hero!!

The book was generally set in Czech Republic which was very different & I really did enjoy that.  However I did become a little (a lot) confused after a while with all the different styles of names - both Czech and 'magical' This says a whole lot more about my intelligence, than what it does about the actual writing though.
There is also a lot of switching of scenes and even times, which again did confuse me a bit.  Coupled with the confusing names I did start to find the book to become a little hard going, as my mind wandered slightly.  I was so frustrated with myself more than anything as I wanted to absolutely love every second of the book, but sadly this made it hard for me.

But the book totally redeemed itself for me with an awesome conclusion, which to be honest left me with some questions and so wanting more.  I'm sure next time round I will be more familiar with Laini's writing style and the setting of this book world and so I'll be able to immerse myself into the story more easily.
I hope everyone will give this a go as this is a totally different style for YA!!!

Rating 3 1/2 Out Of 5

Check Out The AWESOME UK Book Trailers Below!!

Published In The UK By Hodder And Stoughton

Due For Release September 2011

This Can be purchased HERE and at good book retailers

Review - Revelations By Melissa De La Cruz

As this is a review for the third book from a series spoilers are possible!!!

"For the Young, Fabulous and Fanged...All is never what it seems. Schuyler Van Alen's blood legacy has just been called into question: is the young vampire in fact a Blue Blood, or is it the sinister Silver Blood that runs through her veins? As controversy swirls, Schuyler is left stranded in the Force household, trapped under the same roof as her cunning nemesis, Mimi Force, and her forbidden crush, Jack Force. But when an ancient place of power is threatened in Rio de Janeiro, the Blue Bloods need Schuyler on their side. The stakes are high, the battle is bloody; and through it all Schuyler is torn between duty and passion, love and freedom."

Once again I am loving this cover.  The UK designers made some slight tweaks to the US version and I think they were perfect.  It does take a while to understand the relevance of the cover, but it is there.

This is the third book in the Blue Bloods series and is once again a treat.  Melissa has a wonderful way of building a nicely paced story, which is intriguing and fun to read.

Melissa adds quite a few pop culture references which make the book very current & adds a whole other connection to the book.  When the characters talk of famous people that you know it kind of puts you on parr with them and shows that you are looking up to the same people.  But what Melissa did very cleverly was mentioning people that are somewhat in the paranormal / fandom bubble and so shouldn't really become people that readers won't know in the future giving the series more longevity.  I was particularly excited to see a mention of Rob Zombie.  Made me think of a few friends of mine that love him!!!

This book continues the love triangle of characters Schuyler, Jack & Mimi.  And I have to say this is growing into quite a beautiful tale.  I even felt myself feeling some sympathy for Mimi, the character we love to hate in the series.  But I'm pleased to say that didn't last too long.  I really do love to hate her!!!

The book leads to quite a huge revelation as the title of the book suggests.  I was rather stunned by it, which is pretty fantastic.  This is an amazing addition to the Blue Bloods series & highly recommended to all you vampire fans!!


Rating 3 Out Of 5

Published In The UK By ATOM

This Can Be Purchased HERE and at good book retailers

Books That Make Me Go Oooooh (8) The Carrier Of The Mark By Leigh Fallon

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




The Carrier Of The Mark By Leigh Fallon
Due For Release In The UK 27/10/2011
Published In The UK By HarperCollins Childrens Books
Amazon LINK

"When Megan Rosenberg moves to Ireland, everything in her life seems to fall into place. She makes close friends with the girls in her class, her relationship with her dad is better than ever, and she finds herself inexplicably drawn to gorgeous, mysterious Adam DeRis.
Adam is cold and aloof at first, but when Megan finally breaks down the icy barrier between them, she is amazed by the intensity of their connection. Then Adam reveals a secret about the magical destiny that will shape both of their lives but also threatens to tear them apart…"

I've not seen a great deal of publicty for this book, but recently saw the cover and thought some more investigating was due!  This sounds pretty darn fab!  I know some people may be getting a little fed up of the paranormal / romance / fantasy genres, but for me it never gets old!  Really looking forward to grabbing a copy of this!!

Review - Ash By Malinda Lo

"In the world of ASH, fairies are an older race of people who walk the line between life and death, reality and magic. As orphaned Ash grows up, a servant in her stepmother's home, she begins to realise that her beloved mother, Elinor was very much in tune with these underworld folk, and that she herself has the power to see them too. Against the sheer misery of her stepmother's cruelty, greed and ambition in preparing her two charmless daughters for presentation at court, and hopefully Royal or aristocratic marriage, Ash  befriends one of these fairies-a mysterious, handsome man-who grants her wishes and restores hope to Ash's existence, even though she knows there will be a price to pay. But most important of all, she also meets Kaisa, a huntress employed by the king, and it is Kaisa who truly awakens Ash's desires for both love and self-respect...Ash escapes a life with her grim and self-serving stepmother and finds her beloved one...ASH is a fairy tale about possibility and recognizing the opportunities for change. From the deepest grief comes the chance for transformation"

I've had this book for quite some time now, but never actually gotten round to reading it (I say that a lot I know!!)   But then in a twitter conversation with some awesome book bloggers it was mentioned that Caroline over at Portrait of A Woman was doing a Lesbian Teen Novels Week.  I realised I had never read anything that fit into the genre, but remembered I had this beauty on my shelf and so thought it was the perfect time to read it.  I'm so pleased I did - its really opened my eyes to a style that I may not have considered in the past.

The cover is just GORGEOUS!!  I love the way the girl is standing very carefree staring into the dark wild woods.  It really is like opposites working together.  The colours are mesmerising too.

So I have to admit I did find this quite difficult to get into at first.  I just couldn't warm to the characters and the story just didn't draw me much, but I persevered and I'm pleased I did.  I guess when I heard this was a take on Cinderella, I was expecting more of a carbon copy but was happy that it took its own path.  Unpredictable stories are more fun!!

Speaking of unpredictable, I found the characters quite that at times.  But that more confused me, than anything.  Some of them I just expected to react to circumstances in one way, but they would do something completely different.  Kept me on my reading toes though!!

There was one thing in this story that completely grossed me out and that was a hunting scene.  I actually had to kind of skim over it, instead of reading it properly.  It really turned my stomach.  What can I say, I am a lover of animals!!

As mentioned earlier this is in fact a lesbian love story, but it was done in such a way that it was beautiful and sweet.  There was nothing done to be risque or make a statement.  It was just a lovely tale that happened to be about two girls instead of a girl and a guy!

I did wonder if the characters may have questioned their feelings more, but at the same time it was refreshing to read of teenage girls that just knew what they wanted and kind of go for it, despite peoples possible reactions.

For me this was the perfect way to try reading another style of YA fiction, as I do love anything mythological.  Its great to work from a place of interest.
This really is a lovely tale that gets you thinking what may be considered different, just isn't!  I would highly recommend giving this a go!!

Rating 3 Out Of 5

Published In The UK By Hodder Childrens Books

This Can Be Purchased HERE and at good book retailers

Review - The Posion Diaries By Maryrose Wood

"In the right dose, everything is a poison. Jessamine has spent her whole life in a cottage close to her father's apothecary garden, surrounded by medicinal plants and herbs that could kill her -- although her father has never allowed her into the most dangerous part of the grounds... the poison garden. And so she's never had reason to be afraid -- until now. Because now a newcomer has come to live with the family, a quiet but strangely attractive orphan boy named Weed. Though Weed doesn't say much in words, he has an instant talent for the apothecary's trade, seeming to possess a close bond with the plants of the garden. Soon, he and Jessamine also share a close bond. But little does Jessamine know that passion can be just as poisonous as the deadliest plants in the garden -- for behind Weed's instinctive way in the garden is a terrible secret."


This I was very lucky to have won from Teen Today a few weeks ago.  I was mega pleased!  And even more surprised by the story - In a very good way!!!
The cover is beautiful!  I love that it has an old diary look, to go with the theme of the book.  I love the gold of the title and the small vines coming from the words.  Wonderful choosing!!

All the early chapters start with a diary entry by Jessamine.  This is a brilliant way to set the scene and get an outline of where the story is going!

The story is so well written.  You can feel the isolation of Jessamine and can imagine how sad things must be for her.  This is really highlighted on the arrival of a companion for her.

The use of real life locations is fantastic.  I'm a big fan of going see places that are used in books, films, TV.  I now have double the reason to visit Alnwick - Harry Potter & The Poison Diaries!!  I may be expecting to see some magic though - hope I won't be disappointed!!

The idea of the Poison Garden is just awesome!  I almost thought of it like Azkaban - I won't explain too much more as I don't want to give any of the plot away, but read it and see what I mean.

The story leads to quite a sad / tragic end, that I think would have made me incredibly depressed, had I not known there will be a sequel - Yep my favourite word SEQUEL!!!  I love to see stories develop and twist and turn!

All In all, I found this such a clever wonderful idea, in a historic style.  This has left me wanting more!!

Rating 3 Out Of 5

This Is Published In The UK By Harper Collins Children

This Can e Purchased HERE and in good book retailers

Review - Wither By Lauren DeStefano

"Sixteen-year-old Rhine Ellery has only four years left to live when she is kidnapped by the Gatherers and forced into a polygamous marriage. Now she has one purpose: to escape, find her twin brother, and go home – before her time runs out forever.
What if you knew exactly when you would die?
Thanks to modern science, every human being has become a ticking genetic time bomb – males only live to age twenty-five and females only live to age twenty. In this bleak landscape, young girls are kidnapped and forced into polygamous marriages to keep the population from dying out.
When sixteen-year-old Rhine Ellery is taken by the Gatherers to become a bride, she enters a world of wealth and privilege. Despite her husband Linden’s genuine love for her, and a tenuous trust among her sister wives, Rhine has one purpose: to escape – to find her twin brother and go home.
But Rhine has more to contend with than losing her freedom. Linden’s eccentric father is bent on finding an antidote to the genetic virus that is getting closer to taking his son, even if it means collecting corpses in order to test his experiments. With the help of Gabriel, a servant she trusts, Rhine attempts to break free, in the limited time she has left."

From reading about this online I was so eager to get a copy & then to my horror I found out that it's not released in the UK for what felt like forever at the time, so thank heavens for overseas shipping - I got my beautiful hardback copy shipped over from the US.  I'm so pleased I didn't wait!!

The cover is just stunning. Everything from the model, to what she is wearing, to the little bird in the Cage is just Gorgeous!  Its just perfect!!  And I have SERIOUS envy for the dress - if anyone fancies making me a version of it, I'd be ever so grateful!!

The story immediately captivated me.  Straight away I got this feeling of dark mystery, maybe even slightly Gothic feel.
It almost felt like I was reading a history book, but from some strange alternate reality where things have gone very strange.
Having said that though, the date is never really mentioned.  The only thing you are told is that buildings in the USA are VERY old and so it must be some years in the future.  I'm very intrigued to see if more is mentioned about dates in the next two installments.

This book deals with Polygamy - something I have never read about so really don't have a huge amount of idea on the ins and out, but I think this has been introduced in an ingenious way.  Its a subject I don't see being talked about very often and I think its important that the YA market has all sorts of themes to learn about, even in a fictitious way.  Obviously these guys marriages are somewhat different to what a normal polygamous marriage would be like in the fact that they don't all know when they are going to die, but still the idea is there and I applaud it!
Reading about polygamy got me thinking about the idea though and I have decided it really wouldn't be for me.  I would be jealous as hell of my sister wives, although the friendships that girls in this book do develop are quite wonderful.

In this book world people die younger and so to live any kind of life they have to start young, much like things were years ago.  I found it fascinating that things have kind of reversed in this world.  Like our intelligence got so far that the only way to go was backwards.  It really is quite amazing!!

The book concludes with quite a hopeful end for our lead character Rhine.  I was waiting for some big cliffhanger or some big shock which I didn't get.  That's both great & kind of disappointing.  But I do remind myself that there are two parts to come in the trilogy so there is plenty of time for me to get some heartbreaks which I am sure I will - EEEEEEK!

This is just an amazing read, I can't recommend it highly enough - read it as soon as you can!!

Rating 4 1/2 Out Of 5

Published In The UK By Harper Voyager

Released in The UK On 4th August 2011

This Can Be Purchased HERE and In Good Book Retailers

In My Mailbox (19)

In My Mailbox Is An Awesome Blog Post Idea Hosted By The Story Siren

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Had a really nice week, on Thursday I spent the whole day with my awesome Mum.  We went to the o2 in London and saw the Titanic Exhibition which was just amazing and quite sad at times.  It was just staggering to think all the things we were looking at were ON the Titanic and have been saved from the bottom of the ocean!  Then in the evening we went to see GLEE LIVE!!!  OMG it was amazing.  I danced my little pop socks off!!  Anyway here is what I got this week!

Bought

Bite Club By Rachel Caine
Once again I happened upon a Works store - whoops!!  I had to get this so I have the complete series so far!

Fade & Gone By Lisa McMann
I've read Wake the first in the series and have been meaning to get these, so YAY!  The last one I read really quick, so thinking these might be the same....

Nearly Departed By Rook Hastings
This has been on my Amazon wish list for so long!  So pleased to finally have it!!

Passion By Lauren Kate
So I've read the first two installments, I just had to get this when I saw it.  Plus it is a Hardback edition, which is pretty rare for the UK, I believe only available from Asda stores??

Ultraviolet By R J Anderson
I found this a couple of weeks ago and just couldn't get it out of my head, so was very excited to buy it!!  Can't wait to start it!

And here's my Glee bits!  I've always wanted a foam finger, so am thrilled to have got the opportunity to get one (and a very cool one at that)   Really hope you have all had an awesome week?!L-Lxoxo

Review - Jessie Hearts NYC By Keris Stainton

"Jessie's just arrived in New York, hoping to forget about her awful ex.
New Yorker Finn is in love with his best friend's girlfriend.
They might be perfect together, but in a city of eight million people, will they find each other?"


This really cool book was lent to me by the fabulous Laura over at SisterSpooky: Book Fangirl.  She read it and really enjoyed it, so sent it my way.  And what a fun read it was!!

Firstly the cover is pretty darn awesome.  I love the Gold shininess - you really cannot make things shiny enough!!  And set with the New York landscape, its so eye catching.  I was really impressed with its style!!

This starts with our main character and her friend making their trip from the UK to New York City.  I could fully relate to their excitement, having made my first trip to the US last year.  Keris summed it all up perfectly.  Yes it really is that exciting on planes (or maybe I just have a dull life???)

The book is full of pop culture references, which for an all things entertainment fangirl like I am was so cool.  I wanted to say to the characters 'OMG I thought that' or 'I LOVE HIM TOO!!' I was rather thrilled by mentions of Jared Leto (YUM) My Chemical Romance (MCRmy) & Ugly Betty (she is like my sister from another mister!!)  My only slight concern is that this book won't have as long a shelf life just because in a few years people may not know how epically cool the people / things are that are written about.   I hope that’s not the case or if it is that it will educate people in the future on some awesome bands & TV that they have to check out!!!

The story is told from two perspectives - English Jessie and American Finn.  It was so enjoyable reading from both sides and seeing the use of language for both.  It’s amazing the differences that there are in our day to day speech!!
For instance Finn describes the girl he really fancies and says she is a Size 10, straight away I was thinking, so is that US sizing as he is American or is that UK as the book is highly targeted at the UK audience.  In the end I had to ask Keris herself.  She did confirm that is was US sizing, so the girl was a UK 14 - another thing that really impressed me - not all desired girls have to be a size 8!!!

There were parts to the story that I found a little convenient or just unlikely but put that aside this is a really fun and quirky book.

For me the story was quite similar to the movie 'Sliding Doors'  The way that Jessie and Finn are constantly thrown into similar places and situations, yet both being so focused on their own life’s they don't see each other.  For me this book was essentially about fate and I found that really comforting and hopeful for life and future.  Highly recommended for a quick fun read!!

Rating 3 1/2 Out Of 5

Published In The UK By Orchard

This is available to buy HERE and at good book retailers

Cover Reveal: Born Wicked By Jessica Spotswood

Today marks the release of an absolutely gorgeous cover to what sounds like a fabulous book!!!

BORN WICKED BY JESSICA SPOTSWOOD

"Cate Cahill and her sisters are considered eccentric bluestockings—a little odd, a little unfashionable, and far too educated for their own good. The truth is more complicated; they’re witches. And if their secret is discovered by the priests of the Brotherhood, it could mean an asylum, a prison ship—or an early grave. Before their mother died, she entrusted Cate with keeping them safe and keeping everyone, including their father, in the dark about their powers. When her father employs a governess and Cate begins to receive notes from her missing, presumed-mad godmother, her task becomes much more difficult. As Cate searches for answers in banned books and rebellious new friends, she must juggle unwanted proposals, tea parties, and an illicit attraction to the new gardener. Cate will do anything to protect her sisters, but at what cost to herself?"

Now as most of you know, I really am not keen on seeing faces on covers, but in the case it really works!!  I like it A LOT!!!

Read more about what Jessica has to say about the cover on her blog HERE 

Review - The Dark Divine By Bree Despain

"A prodigal son. A dangerous love. Haunted yearning...Grace Divine, daughter of the local pastor, always knew something terrible happened the night Daniel Kalbi disappeared and her brother Jude came home covered in his own blood. Now that Daniel's returned, Grace must choose between her growing attraction to him and her loyalty to her brother. As Grace gets closer to Daniel, she learns the truth about that mysterious night and how to save the ones she loves, but it might cost her the one thing she cherishes most: her soul."

I've been wanting to read this for some time now, but firstly never got round to purchasing it.  Then I found it in a charity shop and it would have been a crime to leave it on the shelf.  Then its been sat on my to be read pile for ages & a couple of weeks ago I picked up the sequel to this, so just thought lets get this started.  I'm glad I did!!!

This has a really beautiful eye-catching cover.  I'm not entirely sure why, but this just screams paranormal to me and I love it.  As I've said in other posts I really don't like seeing models faces on covers, so the lack of pleases me no end!!  The use of the colour purple is amazing too & does come up in the book, so it was a connection I was glad of.

The first thing that I really connected with in this book was the kind of brother envy.  Everyone loves Graces brother Jude and I have exactly the same with mine.  Hell I adore my brother too, but sometimes its just a little heartbreaking when your friends ask where your brother is & whats he up too?  Also how perfect he is.  Its hard enough for us girls to be up to scratch sometimes and these perfect brothers just show us up.
All that aside though, you pick up what a happy family Grace comes from & what a solid unit they are.  It makes you think they are kind of unbreakable which is not entirely accurate.

The book kicks straight off with an unraveling mystery.  I did feel like I was watching Lost again as just when you felt a question might get answered you'd be left with another.  However the mystery's to unravel, all be it slowly but they do very satisfactorily.  I really did enjoy the building of the story.  And this leads well into a heart rending revelation.  Something that actually made me feel quite sad.  It was so clever and beautiful, always a thumbs up from me.

I found having this set with a religious family quite interesting and different.  Paranormal stories don't always go with religion but this did it well.  It was fascinating seeing how the community react.

The conclusion to the story was well formed.  It answered everything I wanted to know and gave me a few sharp shocks.  There was also plenty of room left for the sequel which I am so excited to get started on in the near future.

Rating 3 1/2 Out Of 5

This Is Published In The UK By Egmont Books

This Can be purchased HERE and at all good book stores

In My Mailbox (16)

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Finally a post of books that I actually got last week.  Didn't expect to be adding many, but got a couple of cool surprises - I do love a surprise!!!

Bought

Necropolis - Anthony Horowitz

I've seen these round and have been intrigued by it.  This week I was doing our weekly look round the poundshop (do love bargains) and found this & in Hardback!!!  VERY pleased with my find!!

Borrowed

  Jessie <3 NYC - Kerry Stainton
The lovely Laura at Sisterspooky: Book Fangirl highly recommended this & kindly lent me her copy.  Shall devour it soon!!!

Won

I won all this fantastic Swag some even signed from the Awesome I Read Banned Books

If you look at the top of the last picture you can see our beautiful dogs foot, so I had to include a picture of her too :D

 

Hoping you have all had a brilliant book week!!!

L-L

xoxo

In My Mailbox (15)

In My Mailbox Is An Awesome Blog Post Idea Hosted By The Story Siren

All links will take you to Amazon

This is kind of a continuation of last weeks IMM, with a few books and bit from this week.  I would love to recieve this much in a week though :D

Bought




The Lost Saint - Bree Despain
I have only just started to read The Dark Devine but am really enjoying it.  Saw this on offer with the below book and couldn't resist!

Pretty Little Liars - Sara Shepard
After watching the beginning half of the TV series of this I have been eager to read these books.  Really looking forward to starting it



The next few are my charity shop buys.  Could not believe I found all these.



Pride and Prejudice and Zombies - Jane Austen And Seth Grahame Smith
I've been keen to see how these books have been adaptated.

Kiss Of Life - Daniel Waters
I've read the first of this 'Generation Dead' which a found a good read.  Would like to see what happens next.

Beauty - Robin McKinley
Another modernisation of a classic.  Keen to see how this one goes

The Secret Circle - L J Smith
I've read some of L J Smiths other books, so I'd like to see what she does with this one.  Plus I heard this is maybe going to be a TV show, so its good to know what is meant to happen in the book


Won




An Elephant In The Garden - Michael Morpurgo
I was really lucky to win this in a twitter contest held by @Scholasticuk  They really are wonderful people, and everyone should follow their awesome tweets


The Poison Diaries - Maryrose Wood
This I won from the lovely people at @TeenToday Over on twitter, There were 500 copies so not much luck was needed on my side but its fabulous all the same.  Can't wait to read it!


Gifts

That fabulous Jenny over at Wondrous Reads, has been taking great care of my reading needs again - she ROCKS!!
 
  
 
Angel kiss - Laura Jane Cassidy
I hadn't heard of this one but it sounds a really good read!!


Shift - Jeri Smith Ready
I haven't read the first of this one yet, so shall be treating myself to that soon


Ballad - Maggie Stiefvater
I'm a huge Maggie fangirl, so this is so exciting for me.  Really looking forward to starting it


 
The Taker Swag - Alma Katsu
The lovely Alma sent me some signed swag, really excited to get these.  Shall be starting The Taker next!!



I hope you all got lots of lovely goodies this week!!!


L-L
xoxox

Review - City Of Fallen Angels By Cassandra Clare

"The Mortal War is over, and sixteen-year-old Clary Fray is back home in New York, excited about all the possibilities before her. She's training to become a Shadowhunter and – most importantly of all – she can finally call Jace her boyfriend. But nothing comes without a price. Someone is murdering the Shadowhunters who used to be in Valentine's Circle, provoking tensions between Downworlders and Shadowhunters that could lead to a second, bloody war. And when Jace begins to pull away from her without explaining why, Clary is forced to delve into the heart of a mystery whose solution reveals her worst nightmare: she herself has set in motion a terrible chain of events that could lead to her losing everything she loves. Even Jace."

Wow I haven't done one of these in a while, but I shall start how I normally do anyway.  The Cover.  I love that they kept to a similar style with the covers.  The colours are stunning, the city landscape is beautiful.  I absolutely love the little touches on the characters.  The scars of tattoos on the Clary model & the ring around her neck.  What I was not so keen on though was the fact that the models faces were visible.  I would much rather have things like that kept to my imagination, I would to build my own picture of the character.  Also the Simon models hair is dreadful!!!

Reading this it just felt like catching up with old friends.  It was so easy to jump back into and the story flowed straight away.

As some of you may know Cassandra Clare is writing a prequel series of books that kind of run alongside this.  There were a few mentions of characters and things that happened in the first book of that series and that made me so excited.  I adore The Infernal Devices books as much as these, and I'm now even more eager to get the second installment of them!

There were quite a few new characters introduced in this book, this was done in a really fluid way.  The characters fit in perfectly and I'm excited to see what happens with them in the next two books of this series.

I was left feeling a little frustrated with the current conclussion to our lead characters story.  I do understand that books would be pretty boring if there was no conflict or anguish, but they are like my friends and so you are bound to feel feelings of worry for them.  This shows how wonderfully Cassie writes though and so you are left feeling absolutely captivated.

I really enjoyed this new installment to the series.  For me it wasn't quite as amazing as the previous books, but I can't wait to see where the story is going and what will happen next!!

Rating 4 1/2 Out Of 5

This Is Published In The UK By Walker

This Can Be Purchased HERE and At All Good Bookstores

Cover Reveal - Clockwork Prince By Cassandra Clare

As all good book fans shall know this week is the Book Expo America - SOOOOO Jealous I am not there!!!  But I'm very excited to hear the all kinds of awesome announcements and news that happens, just will sadly be from my living room instead!

Today marked the release of the cover for 'Clockwork Prince' The second of The Infernal Devices books by Cassandra Clare - I just did a squeal at seeing it!!  Yep it is that cool!!!

All the awesome news of the reveal and an epic giveaway can be found over at Mundie Moms

Once again they have come up with a stunning cover although Jem's head does look a little super imposed in my honest opinion, but I am still so excited to devour it!!

Review - Numbers By Rachel Ward

"Since her mother's death, fifteen-year-old Jem has kept a secret. When her eyes meet someone else's, a number pops into her head the date on which they will die. Knowing that nothing lasts forever, Jem avoids relationships, but when she meets a boy called Spider, and they plan a day out together, her life takes a new twist and turn. Waiting for the London Eye, she sees everyone in the queue has the same number - something terrible is going to happen."

This is one of the books given to me by the lovely people at Chicken House books.  I wanted to make sure I read one of the books pronto & picked this one.  Straight from the blurb I thought this sounded a very different & unique read.

The cover is really eye catching.  I love the use of numbers for letters.  The spine and the back cover of the book is covered in tiny numbers.  You have to look really hard to see them, but I think it was genius to add that.  That made me feel like Jem for just a moment!!

This is a London set book, which you don't find that often in my opinion so that made a good change.  It was also set in the grittier side of London, where people don't speak with a plum in their mouth.  The speech in the book was written, just like the kids talk in Eastenders.  I could really hear their accents, coming out and it made it really easy to know what perspectives I was reading from or if it was the characters thoughts or the authors view.  This was a brilliant idea and I really enjoyed getting into that side of the book.

Like with most books I found myself getting very frustrated at the characters for their lack of communication.  I understand that books would be over far quicker if everyone did talk about everything, but still have that deep longing for characters to tell someone about their problems or fears.

Jem and Spider do some extremely silly things in the book, the sort of stuff you hear on the news nightly about kids in gangs, etc.  Whereas once I may have just thought how ridiculous of people, this book possibly explained it a little & gave me an insight into why people go to the lengths they do.  It did give me a feeling of sympathy for them, but still at no time glamorised what they do or make it seem like it is a good idea - it never is!

This is an extremely cleverly written book, that takes you on a whirlwind adventure.  But for me it felt incredibly depressing & gloomy.  It had an air of no escape from where you come from & obviously it wasn't the most uplifting message.  Its horrible to think that these lifestyles are reality for some people & in a very selfish way I wasn't comfortable living it with them.
All this said the last words were an absolute OMG!!  I was aghast to read them.
I would suggest this book to anyone that likes some harsh reality with their fiction!!

Rating 3 Out Of 5

This is published in the UK By Chicken House

This Can Be Purchased HERE and at all good book stores

Review - Divergent By Veronica Roth

"One choice can transform you. Pass initiation. Do not fail…
Thrilling urban dystopian fiction debut from exciting young author.
In sixteen-year-old Beatrice Prior’s world, society is divided into five factions – Abnegation (the selfless), Candor (the honest), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent) – each dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue, in the attempt to form a “perfect society.” At the age of sixteen, teens must choose the faction to which they will devote their lives.
On her Choosing Day, Beatrice renames herself Tris, rejects her family’s group, and chooses another faction. After surviving a brutal initiation, Tris finds romance with a super-hot boy, but also discovers unrest and growing conflict in their seemingly “perfect society.” To survive and save those they love, they must use their strengths to uncover the truths about their identities, their families, and the order of their society itself."


I was very fortunate to have been sent an ARC of this.  I was so excited when I opened the package - I had no idea I was getting it!!

Firstly the cover. Very eye catching.  Gives you a good idea of what the setting is, so you can picture it just that bit easier.   I generally find with dysotopian books, that I picture kind of medieval settings.  I have no idea why I do this, but my strange head does.  It was just that bit more helpful to have a picture to refer to.

I found the idea of this book amazing.  I already find it hard when I think of people making decisions about college courses or jobs at 16, but this books takes it even further in that you make the decision & that is final.  You're only alternative to choice, is to basically become what is considered the dregs of society.  Whilst reading I thought of the people in factions as Upper Classes & the factionless as working class.  I hope I'd fit into a faction, but would be terrified of ending up factionless, as I quite possibly would!
The use of factions for the book is such a great idea too.  I can already imagine my book friends and I, discussing which faction we're in & who's better.  Oh I do love our book fangirling!
The five Factions Abnegation, Candor, Dauntless, Amity And Erudite, I couldn't help but think of them in school group terms.  I thought Dauntless would definitely be the bad, but cool kids.  The Erudites would definitely be the geeks.  I think I would actually fit in with Amity as to be honest I am a bit of a chicken & just like peace, which is a shame because I love the sounds of the Dauntless' fashion & their tattoos!  I am a huge tattoo fan & hope to build on my one little inkage and I probably shouldn't say this, but this book has inspired me to get more.  Veronica Roth you are to blame :)

There is A lot of anticipation building with the book, which seriously got my heart racing.  I honestly had no idea where the story was going to go to next, this made it really hard to put down & get sleep though - I warn you!!
It was very enjoyable to read Tris' thought processes.  The way she solves life's puzzles and sorts out her predicaments, absolutely fascinated me.  I should learn from her for sure!

I do have to say that the story is quite harrowing and dramatic at times & although I did really enjoy the story (seriously I did) I couldn't quite understand why anyone would stay where they were, enduring what they were.  I guess this shows more of my cowardice or maybe just how brave the character of Tris is.

There are such huge twists in the characters.  It was deeply shocking.  I really didn't expect for some of them to act the way they did.  It really does keep you on your toes.

As with most YA stories there is a budding romance & a dreamy guy.  But the dreamy guy (Four) in the book is my new FAVOURITE!  OK I know I do say this a lot, but I think this is the one.  Four I LOVE YOU!!!  Please can you materialise in my home town & become my beau???  I will even try and become a domestic goddess for you, and that is something that would shock everyone I know!!

The story leads to a very dramatic conclusion, with yet again lots of twists and turns and heartbreak and relief.  The story didn't have a perfect happy end which I actually loved.  Its so much more 'realistic' to have sadness & not be completely lucky.

This is without doubt my favourite book of the year so far, quite possibly one of my all time favourite books.  It has everything humour, love, action, heartbreak, deception, fear and DEATH!  You would be stupid to not get this book.  Go and pre-order it now YOU WILL NOT BE SORRY!!!!!

Rating 5 Out Of 5

Published In The UK By HarperCollins Childrens Books

This Can Be Purchased HERE and at all good book stores

This Is Due For Release On The 3rd May 2011

In My Mailbox (12)

In My Mailbox Is An Awesome Blog Post Idea Hosted By The Story Siren

All links will take you to Amazon

Once again I was really lucky and had a fabulous book week.  Managed to find some awesome reads on my travels too.  Here's what I got...

Bought

These First Two I got from charity shops, I couldn't believe my eyes when I saw them on the shelves!

 Wicked By Gregory Maguire

I actually already have a copy of this, but in paperback.  I've never seen a hardback edition & when I found this I was so excited.  I'm sure its meant to have a dustcover, but this edition should not be covered anyway - its GORGEOUS!  Plus the Pages are GREEN!!!

The Dark Divine By Bree Despain

I have wanted to read this one for ages & for one reason or another I just hadn't got a copy, but I am so ecstatic to finally have it

 Wither By Lauren DeStefano

This I got from the US, as its not out in the UK for months yet.  The premise of the story sounds incredible, I can't wait to start it.  Plus the cover - OMG it is so pretty!!  Even my Mum made a little gasp when she saw it

Inside Out By Maria V. Snyder

As you may have read before I adored Maria's Study series of books, so based on my love of her work I had to get this.  Another series I am eager to get my teeth into

 Morning Glories issue 8

This has to be one of my favorite series of comics.  The stories are just amazing

You can find the first 6 issues HERE, in a Graphic Novel

Gift

So as some of you may have noticed Jenny over at Wondrous Reads is one of my best friends & she supplies me with so much reading material - she is a true LEGEND!  This week I got:

Desires Of The Dead By Kimberly Derting

I finished reading the Body Finder last week & absolutely adored it.  Jenny saw my fangirl tweets & so sent me along the next part of the story.  SO HAPPY!!!

I also got a District 19 postcard and some awesome Hunger Games Tattoos

That's my lot for the week - its been epic!!

Hope you all got some amazing reads too?!

L-L 

xoxo

Book Theme Tunes: The Body Finder

I like most people love to listen to music whilst I read.  Its two of my favorite things that I can mix - you can't do that with many hobbies!  Well sometimes just by chance you will listen to a song that fits the story perfectly.  These posts will be dedicated to my two big loves!!


The Body Finder features a beautiful love story between Violet & Jay, something that completely benefits from a theme song.  Just by chance on the very last pages I was listening to the most perfect song for this book, so I had to share - hope you enjoy as much as I did

The song is: Pieces By Red

You can find my review of The Body Finder HERE