In My Mailbox (4)

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

All links will take you to Amazon

I've had the most awesome week for books, which has excited me no end!  I even nearly bought more yesterday in Tesco, but luckily for my purse I could only find 1 book I wanted in their deal so wouldn't have been worth it for me this week.  Next week though..... :D

So here we go!

Gifts

 

The Wonderful Jenny at WondrousReads has spoilt me again and sent me some books - That girl is wicked!!

1.Immortal Edited By P.C.Cast

This is an Anthology book, which looks amazing.  Full of short vampiric stories.  Looks like it could be a fun quick read & with some of my favorite authors - YAY!

2. My Soul To Take By Rachel Vincent

I have heard really good things about these books, so can't wait to get started on another series.  I do love when you can re-visit characters in different books

Bought 

1. Mockingjay By Suzanne Collins

So I know I am so behind on reading these books & believe me I have been told off by my friends & even Scholastic!! I'm catching up though & am actually reading Catching Fire now!!

2. The Iron Witch By Karen Mahoney

I'd heard this book is great, so was interested anyway, but then found out about the amazing limited edition Waterstones was selling, so had to buy it.  It even has gold edged pages, I've posted a picture of the pages slightly down this post!

3. Bright Young Things By Anna Godberson

I really like period set books, but have never read anything set in the 1920's period so when I heard about this I knew I had to get it.  Looks fun and quirky!

4. Before I Fall By Lauren Oliver

I was talking to friends about really wanting to read Delirium which is out this week & was asked if I had read Lauren's previous book, which I guiltily had to admit I hadn't.  I've heard rave reviews of this, so am looking forward to starting this one soon!

 

 You can see the colour of the Iron Witch pages in this - how Gorgeous??!

Comic Bought

 

Morning Glories #6 By Joe Eisma & Nick Spencer

I absolutely adore this series of comics.  Its about a school called 'Morning Glory Academy' and seriously sinister stuff happens there.  I cannot recommend them highly enough.  The link included is to the trade paperback

Hope you all have added some awesome reads to your collections this week too!!

Enjoy x

Review - The Replacement By Brenna Yovanoff

"Mackie Doyle is a replacement - a fairy child left in the crib of a human baby sixteen years ago, to replace the baby when it was stolen away by the fey. So though he lives in the small town of Gentry, Mackie's real home is the fey world of tunnels and black, murky water, a world of living dead girls ruled by a little tattooed princess. Now, because his fey blood gives him fatal allergies to iron, blood and consecrated ground, Mackie is slowly dying in the human world. Mackie would give anything just to be normal, to live quietly amongst humans, practice his bass guitar and spend time with his crush, Tate. But when Tate's baby sister goes missing, Mackie is drawn irrevocably back home to the fey underworld of Gentry, known as Mayhem, where he must face down the dark creatures, rescue the child, and find his rightful place - in our world, or theirs"

This was actually the first ARC I was given during San Diego Comic Con.  I'd just seen blogs written about it days earlier, so it was fresh in my mind.  When the lady got it out of the box for me I could have danced - I was so psyched!!  I'm just so sorry it has taken me so long to read it, but I got there & boy did I enjoy it!!

As always I start with my thoughts on the cover.  As I had a US ARC I have the amazing cover with the pram & scary ironworks dangling over it.  This has to be one of the creepiest covers ever & I LOVE IT!!!  Its so atmospheric & gives such a good indicator of the theme of the book.
That said I do really like the UK cover too.  I mean what girl doesn't like looking at a cute guy???  And he is kind of how you imagine the lead character to be, so great choosing on the model.

When I read on the blurb this was very Tim Burton'esqe I was again really excited, as I love Tim Burton's work.  I have to say I totally agree with that.  This is very quirky, unusual, off balancing & in places very dark.  For me it was a great change to the usual YA books I read.
This was also very different in that it has a male Narrative.  That hardly ever happens in the books I tend to read & again it was a really nice refreshing change.  I would definitely like to read more from a boys point of view.

A small thing I really loved about the book, was that it had chapter titles.  Again this doesn't happen all that often in YA books & for me I found it great.  It gives you a sneaky idea of what the upcoming chapter has in store.  I love it!

The book does plod a little at times, it has growing intrigue which is both exciting and frustrating.  You do get the feeling you want to shout 'WHATS GOING ON???' But in this case that is how the characters are feeling too, so it really does put you on an even par.

I found the story in some ways relate able - I know that sounds strange (as far as I'm aware there isn't a sinister underground where I am living) but in the fact of nearly everyone I know is trying to find their place in the world & where they fit in.  I think this would especially ring home to teenage readers & maybe even give some answers, as towards the end of the story some of these questions are worked out by Mackie.

I can officially say I was SO SCARED towards the end of the book.  For me it took a somewhat sinister turn, and I literally had to remind myself to breathe.  I did enjoy that though, not often books bring out that reaction in me & in a weird way it was fun (what is happening to me o.0)


This is a fabulous first book by Brenna.  I'm really excited to see what she comes up with next & really hope to read more of this dark sinister world

Rating 4 Out Of 5

Published In The UK BY Simon & Schuster Childrens Books

This can be Purchased from HERE & all good bookstores

Review - Masquerade By Melissa De La Cruz

This week I got to start the second of the Blue Bloods books.  I really wasn't sure what to expect, as the first wasn't quite what I was hoping it would be.  I have to say I THOROUGHLY enjoyed this installment!!!

Again the cover first.  I adore the UK covers, which are what I have.  They are just that bit more sleeker in my opinion.  I adore the mask that is depicted on this one too - I'd happily wear that & trust me sometimes I could really do with a mask!!!  But although not to my taste the mask shown on the US addition is actually more accurate to the books depiction.  I've posted pictures of both covers - What do you think??

This installment started with a change of location to Italy - another of my most wanted places to visit, so I really enjoyed that.  Quite a bit of action & adventure ensued so it was a great way to jump into the book & story!

I love the dog companions that are in the books.  I adore dogs & have 5 of my own, so I always get a nice feeling when they are spoke of so fondly in books & on TV.  I do really worry for their safety though.  I know authors quite like to isolate their heroes & its said that loss makes characters stronger.  This may be true, but please not the dog that is all I ask!!!  Just to point out Beauty is safe & sound in this book, its just a concern of mine for future books.

The relationship between Jack & Mimi, I do kind of understand, but it makes me incredibly uncomfortable.  There are some things that just aren't right in my opinion & there affection is one of them.  But I have a strong feeling things will go right in the end - I hope!!


I adore the character of Ollie.  He is just the perfect friend - can I have one of him please??!

This finished with lots of revelations, that literally left me with my mouth WIDE open!!  Always amazing to have that reaction to a book don't you think!!  There's also a fabulous cliff hanger - I'm so eager to start the next part already!!!

Rating 4 Out Of 5

Published in the UK By ATOM

This Can Be Purchased HERE & In Good Bookshops

In My Mailbox (3)

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

All links will take you to Amazon

 

 

 I only have 1 books to blog about this week.  I have actually ordered 3 others, but 2 of those are pre-orders, so sadly I still have a wait for them.  Anyway here goes....

The Splendour Falls By Rosemary Clement-Moore

This has been on my Amazon wish list for ages, but I spotted it in Asda & had to buy it.  They had about 5 copies in there, but this was the only one with this cover.  I've never seen this one before, only the purple rose one.  Nice to have something a little different.

I hope your mailbox has been kind to you this week.... x

Books That Make Me Go Ooooooh (2) Delirium By Lauren Oliver

Delirium By Lauren Oliver
Due For Release 3rd February 2011
Published In The UK By Hodder & Stoughton
Amazon Link

"There was a time when love was the most important thing in the world. People would go to the end of the earth to find it. They would tell lies for it. Even kill for it.

Then, at last, they found the cure.

Now, everything is different. Scientists are able to eradicate love, and the government demands that all citizens receive the cure upon turning eighteen. Lena Haloway has always looked forward to the day when she’ll be cured. A life without love is a life without pain: safe, measured, predictable, and happy.

But then, with only ninety-five days left until her treatment, Lena does the unthinkable"


I have seen so many reviews for this recently & each one makes me more and more eager to read this.  So much so that I pre-ordered it last night at about 12:15 am (& on my Ipod at that, I was that excited)

I'm kind of in the mood for a real heart rending read which by the sounds of it, this does & in Style!!!

Review - Paranormalcy By Kiersten White

Confession Time Again....I didn't actually know what this was about when I got it & even started to read it.  I knew it was YA & must have a paranormal theme to it, just down to the name (So perceptive me!!)  This was way different to anything I could have imagined & I LIKED it!!

Again I'll start with the cover.  Absolutely stunning, really love it.  Apart from the fact that the lead character is blond & the girl on the cover is blond I don't really see any other indications as to what the book is like.  From the cover you would expect quite a dark tale & to me this really wasn't.  The story even made me giggle a few time!!

This is such a great idea for a story.  I would say the story is a cross between Buffy the Vampire Slayer & X-Files, that makes an awesome story base in my mind. 

It was a little hard for me to get into at first, but mostly that is my fault for not finding out about the story first.  Once I did though, I had no problems.  It was actually really nice to read a paranormal story that was different & kind of quirky.  

What I really enjoyed about the story was that Evie (the lead character) was a reluctant hero.  So many books you read, the 'heroes' are so gun ho & ready to get themselves in dangerous situations, but for once the character didn't want too.  All she wants is a normal life & I found this far more relate able than a lot of the other stories out there.  That said it doesn't mean there isn't plenty of action, because believe me LOTS happens. 

Evie's love interest (yes there is still love interests) is quite unique & totally awesome.  I highly approve of him!!

This is a GREAT first book & I'm really eager to find out where this is going to go, with the sequel coming out later in the year.  I'm also thrilled to have a new series to get into!!

Rating 3 1/2 out of 5

This Can Be Purchased Here

This Is Published In The UK By Harper Collins Children's Books

In My Mailbox (2)

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

All links will take you to Amazon

So my 2nd IMM in a week, that is impressive right?? I just was late posting the last and on time with this one. Who'd of thought I could be on time?


1. The Demon Trappers: Forsaken By Jana Oliver
I'm positive I would have bought this anyway, but I was out shopping & needed some cash, there were no cash machines around, so I had the clever/cunning idea of buying something & getting cash back = More reading material :D Looking forward to starting this

2. Hex Hall By Rachel Hawkins
I was given an Amazon voucher for Christmas & after MUCH deliberation & on friends high recommendations I bought this & the next book.
This sounds so much fun & rather quirky - AWESOME

3. Graceling ByKristin Cashore
I have heard great things about this! I am a HUGE fan of the Poison Study series By Maria V Snyder & people have been comparing these, so is an absolute must read for me

Hope you all got some good reads this week too!!

Enjoy x

Books That Make Me Go Ooooooh (1)

Recently I have developed this habit of trawling through Amazon to find new books that I am dying to read, so thought how about blogging about them. I might as well share my book lusting, no point suffering alone. So My First book is..........

Birthmarked By Caragh M O'Brien
Due For Release 28th April 2011
Published In The UK By Simon & Schuster
Amazon Link

"IN THE ENCLAVE, YOUR SCARS SET YOU APART, and the newly born will change the future. In the future, in a world baked dry by the harsh sun, there are those who live inside the walled Enclave and those, like sixteen-year-old Gaia Stone, who live outside. Following in her mother's footsteps Gaia has become a midwife, delivering babies in the world outside the wall and handing a quota over to be "advanced" into the privileged society of the Enclave. Gaia has always believed this is her duty, until the night her mother and father are arrested by the very people they so loyally serve. Now Gaia is forced to question everything she has been taught, but her choice is simple: enter the world of the Enclave to rescue her parents, or die trying. A stunning adventure brought to life by a memorable heroine, this dystopian debut will have readers racing all the way to the dramatic finish"

As soon as I saw the cover to this I was intrigued, I know you shouldn't make judgments from covers, but I bet we all do it - admit it!!!! Anyway I'm so glad it did catch my eye, as I went on the read the synopsis & knew this book is for me. It sounds just as amazing as it looks & I cannot wait to get my mitts on it

In My Mailbox (1)

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

Woohoo My Very First IMM. I warn you now these will pop up every now and again from me, as at the moment I don't get books everyweek, but here goes......

I got 3 books all gifts from my lovely friend Jenny over at Wondrous Reads



1. Cryers Cross By Lisa McMann
This sounds very cool, slightly different from my usual picks but one I am eager to give a go

2. BloodThirsty By Flynn Meaney
This sounds really cool. Quite quirky & I think needed to take away how serious vampires can sometimes be taken

3. Low Red Moon By Ivy Devlin
Now this is right up my street, Paranormal Romance & vampires - cannot wait to start this one!!


Hopefully that was a first of many of these blogs :D

ENJOY x

Review - Blue Bloods By Melissa De La Cruz

I've seen these books around and online for ages & have been meaning to read them for as long, but never got round to it. That is until my local supermarket started to stock them - I bought them then & there.

Firstly the UK covers. I absolutely adore these. The original covers were great and very eye catching, but these UK ones are just fabulous. I love that you can see exactly what the story is about, with the bite marks & the pearls but that is all you need. These seem so much more polished too. Awesome job!!!

The setting of New York was amazing. I've never actually been to New York (I'll get there one day I tell you!!) but I could picture most of it. That was a great idea & it has driven my desire to visit even more!

Personally I could have lived without all the fashion talk. I like fashion, but I'm not actually bothered about names & makes, so for me mentioning it was not of any use. That said I do think it is a good idea to mix the two. Typically I don't think you would find fashion fans to be vampire fans & vice versa, but if this helped to spread the word a little for either camp then that has got to be good. Its always good to learn about new stuff & what better way than through a good bit of fiction.

There are a few music references which I loved, although having the heroine saying her favorite singer was 50 Cent, did make my stomach churn a little. I don't mean any offense to 50 Cent fans, he is just not my cup of tea!!!

I found it great to read the story from different peoples perspectives. It was nice to know what everyone was thinking & getting a full story as opposed to a one sided view. This was really refreshing.

I found this a great story. It was a nice quick read. A little slow at times & sometimes left me wondering where it was going, but the last 100 pages really had me wanting to read more and more. I'm very intrigued as to what the next part has instore & shall be reading it as soon as possible

Rating 3 Out 5

Published in the UK By ATOM

This can be Purchased HERE

Book covers Galore

Wow, so not only is today the official UK release of Lament By Maggie Stiefvater, Scholastic were amazing & decided to finally release the cover of Forever, the expected finale of Maggie's awesome The Wolves Of Mercy Falls series. I literally could not be more excited for that book. Maggie rocks my socks in every way :D

I read Lament last year & loved it! Its a highly recommended read, not to mention a stunning cover!!





And how beautiful is Forever?? I love the designs used for these books. Its so simple, but hugely effective. They always make me wonder what the back story is, & how the red parts of the covers are going to effect the story. This time being the rose - whats going to happen???

Also ScholasticUK have some amazing Lament giveaways going on, on there twitter page, so go have a look!!! http://twitter.com/#!/scholasticuk

Also on a slightly different thread the cover for Passion by Lauren Kate has been revealed. OMG how stunning is this??? I absolutely adore these covers. I'm not always such a fan of seeing people on covers, but these are done is such a gorgeous, effective waay how could you not fall in love with - plus those dresses....WOW!!!! Another read I am dying to get round too!!! You can find the image here

Review - Last Sacrifice By Richelle Mead

So I've been waiting for this finale for so long & to be totally honest it got a little ruined for me by the flu that I am still going on about. I just can't believe something got in the way of my reading, seriously is shocking!!

One of the first things that I wanted to talk about was the change of cover again. I was stunned that the publishers did decide to change the covers again at such a late stage. I do actually much prefer the new style, for me they say a lot more than just looking at a girls face. I find the patterns they have picked to be beautiful & I love looking to see what other things I can spot. It is unfortunate now that my books no longer match, oh well its whats inside that counts!!!

This book needed to tie up a lot of ends & I had no idea how Richelle was going to manage it. She really had woven such a complicated messy web, but obviously Richelle is hugely talented & my wonders were wasted, she knew exactly what she was doing and where she wanted the story to go, it did take a while to get there though.


I really do feel that story took me through just about every emotion I could go through, highs & lows, tears & laughs but where I ended was with a fully rounded conclusion and a feeling of contentment. We were given a great end to story & am so grateful to Richelle for the ride.

Now I'm eagerly awaiting the spin off series, which cannot come soon enough. I hear there will be a few characters making the jump from this series to the next. Its going to be exciting stuff......

Rating 4 1/2 Out Of 5

Published In The UK By Puffin

I've been bad......

Many Apologies, for my way too long absence. What with preparing for Christmas & then getting a dreaded cold & cough (twice in one month) I just haven't been reading or doing anything of much use at all. I promise to make up for this in 2011!!!

My Christmas was actually pretty awesome though. I got totally spoilt by family & friends. I'm a very lucky girl!!
And for the first time in a while I got books for gifts :D Everyone normally lets me buy my own as I have quite a few, but with the wonder that is the Amazon wish list, people actually knew what to get me whooooop!

I got a Signed first edition of 'Devil's Kiss' By Sarwat Chadda, Glee Annual, Glee: The Beginning, 'Ballet Shoes' By Noel Streatfield & 'Misguided Angel' By Melissa De La Cruz I can't wait to make a start on all of them!
And I have £5 voucher from my lovely friend, so money to buy something else to read - I'm still weighing up which book to invest in - I want so many & yes I over think things......