The Tainted Poet's YA Book Review:

A YA book review blog for anything out of the ordinary-- Paranormal, Supernatural, Fantasy and Sci-Fi. Complete with Reviews, Interviews and Contests-- So stay and have a look!

Thursday, July 30, 2009

Eli's Weekly Post -2


Hello everyone! I have a quick update to send you guys so that you know whats going on with me this week!

Well, as I have stated before, I just got back from my trip t
o Virginia! It was so much fun! We did everything worth doing in the area we were in. It was fantastic. :) Colonial Williamsburg, Busch Gardens, and Water Country were among my favorites! I rode Apollo's Chariot seven times, and I rode The Griffin three times. It was faaabulous! I also picked up my copy of Shiver while I was there! Maggie actually lives in VA, which is really cool.

Anyways-- on to the reason that it is important for me to post this tonight! I am going away once again. Only this time I'm not sure if I will have any internet access at all! So, I am scheduling a few posts to be posted while I am gone, but I will not actually have internet access myself. I will be back Monday the 3rd, so I'm not going to gone for too long! I'll be in TN, so I'm excited to have a different sort of vacation!

Cheers!


Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Waiting on Wednesday -9


Never Cry Werewolf by Heather Davis

Release Date: September 1st, 2009

Publisher: HarperTeen

Synopsis:

"Moonlight can totally change your life.
And it all starts so simply.
You. Him. The moon. You’re toast."


Okay, so maybe Shelby has made a few mistakes with boys lately (how was she supposed to know Wes had “borrowed” that Porsche?). But her step-mother totally overreacts when she catches Shelby in a post-curfew kiss with a hot senior. Suddenly Shelby’s summer plans are on the shelf, and she’s being packed off to brat camp. It’s good-bye, prom dress; hello, hiking boots.

Things start looking up, though, when Shelby meets fellow camper (and son of a rock star) Austin Bridges, III. But soon she realizes there’s more to Austin than crush material—his family has a dark secret, and he wants Shelby’s help guarding it. Shelby knows that she really shouldn’t be getting tangled up with another bad boy…but who is she to turn her back on a guy in need, especially such a good looking one? One thing’s for sure, that pesky full moon is about to get her into trouble all over again.

------------------------------------
This is one book I know I'm excited for. I just seem to be in the mood for werewolves lately. x) What did everyone else choose?

Waiting on Wednesday is brought to us by: Breaking The Spine.

Monday, July 27, 2009

Interview: Michelle Zink


Michelle Zink
is the Author of the up coming release Prophecy of The Sisters, which hits bookstores August 1st, 2009. Besides being a Deb, Michelle is a part of The Word Ninjas, Ink. A fantastic group of authors and bloggers working together to promote excellent books!

For more information, click: Here

Questions on Prophecy of The Sisters:

Tainted Poet: First off, could you give us a brief summery of Prophecy of the Sisters?
Michelle Zink: Prophecy of the Sisters is about a sixteen-year-old girl named Lia who discovers she's part of an ancient prophecy that puts her in direct opposition to her twin sisters, Alice, and that could have apocalyptic consequences for mankind.

TP: What was your biggest inspiration while writing Prophecy of the Sisters?
MZ: I love reading about ancient myths and legends, and I was incredibly intrigued by the biblical tale of the Watchers, the angels who were sent to watch over mankind but instead fell in love with mortal women and fell from grace. Their offspring were called the Nephilim, and Prophecy asks the question, "What if the descendants of the angel/woman union continued to pay the price for their ancestor's mistakes? And what if only one were pre-destined to end it for the generations to come?"

TP: What made you choose the time period in which you set this book?
MZ: I love the Victorian era and everything Gothic! It's such a dark, sensuous era, and I thought it would set the tone nicely for the very dark atmosphere of the story.

TP: Do you ever wish to live in the 1800s? If so, when exactly?
MZ: Sometimes! It was such a graceful era in terms of fashion and manners, and those seem to be things we're losing touch with by the day. In the other hand, I'm happy to have indoor plumbing!

TP: How long did it take you to plan and write this novel?
MZ: I probably thought about the book for a couple of months before I started writing. The first draft took me three months to write, but it took me another 10 months to revise! Sounds crazy, I know! But I don't write with an outline of any kind, and I've come to accept that this style of writing means a lot of back-end revising in order for everything to work. I'd love to be able to write with a detailed outline so that everything comes together nicely the first time, but I tried it once, and it just killed the creativity and atmosphere that I love about writing "my" way!

TP: Which character, would you say, is most like you?
MZ: Honestly, I'm probably a mix between Madame Berrier and Aunt Virginia - motherly but unconventional! I also have a bit of Luisa in me, I think. I hate for other people to think I'm vulnerable, so I've become pretty good at playing tough.

TP: Will there be a sequel? If so, how many books do you have planned?
MZ: Prophecy is a three-book series. The second book is tentatively titled Guardian of the Gate and will be released in August 2010 with the third book being released in August 2011.

TP: Do you have a favorite character?
MZ: I can't choose a favorite! It's like being asked to pick a favorite child - impossible! They're all fairly complex people, and I love them each for their own failings, attributes, and complexities.

TP: I absolutely loved James. Can I marry him? x)
MZ: Well, because of what happens at the end of Prophecy, you MIGHT say that he's available, but when you read Book Two, you'll realize it's not quite so simple... ;)

Other Questions:

TP: Do you have any particular favorite foods or drinks that you like to eat and drink while writing?
MZ: Dark chocolate and tea!

TP: Do you listen to music while you write? And if so, what do you listen to?
MZ: I listen to film scores while I write. Music with words makes it hard to find my own, and I've found that by choosing a film score or two from a movie that matches the tone of the book I'm writing, I can more easily find the atmospheric tone that I try to put into my work. Plus, it helps me drown out the sounds of four kids/teens plus friends plus music being played and amps blasting in my basement!

TP: Have you always wanted to be a writer?
MZ: Yes! But I forgot who I was for awhile back when I was trying to earn a living and provide medical benefits for my children. It took me awhile to remember that there are more important things than money - and being spiritually fulfilled is at the top of that list. And you know what? I think it's good for kids to know that, too, even if it means they have to sacrifice a little. Mine did, uncomplainingly, because they knew how much my writing meant to me and they, too, believed that I should follow me passion. Great kids, huh?!

TP: How does it feel to be having your book come out?
MZ: It feels... surreal. The publication of any book takes a long time, but mine took longer than most - two whole years! Now, I see it on the shelf and my face hurts from smiling! But it's also scary, because I don't want to disappoint anyone and this is where I have to stand back and say, "I did my best. It is what it is. I hope you like it." It's harder than it sounds!

TP: Do you think being a part of Word Ninjas has made your launch more enjoyable?
MZ: Totally! The friendships I've formed with the other authors have been key to my sanity. Lisa Mantchev, author of the amazing book, Eyes Like Stars, has pretty much been the key to my sanity more than once! And then there are the bloggers like you! You've made it such a fun journey, and I love talking and laughing with you guys on Twitter, Facebook, and Myspace. You're such an amazingly talented group of people. Getting to know you all and work with you on various launches has been a highlight of my year. <3>

TP:
Describe Word Ninjas, Ink in 3 words:
MZ: Promoting great books!

TP: What is one question you wish people would ask you?
MZ: What do we need more of in YA literature today?

TP: Any last statements?
MZ: Thanks for hosting me on your blog, Eli! I love watching your progress and have so enjoyed getting to know you. I hope your readers enjoy Prophecy of the Sisters - and I hope it makes them ask themselves, even a little, "What if?"

--END--

Isn't Michelle Fabulous? Make sure to check your bookstores for Prophecy of the Sisters in stores (officially) August 1st, 2009!


Sunday, July 26, 2009

Prophecy of The Sisters by Michelle Zink


Rating: 4.8/5.0

Re-read? Yes! I can't wait to get my Hardcover to start all over again.

Recommend? I recommend this to any Libba Bray fans-- anyone who is interested in paranormal goodness in the Victorian era.

Release Date: August 1, 2009
Publisher: Little, Brown
Pages: 352

Synopsis:

An ancient prophecy divides two sisters-

One good...

One evil...

Who will prevail?


Twin sisters Lia and Alice Milthorpe have just become orphans. They have also become enemies. As they discover their roles in a prophecy that has turned generations of sisters against each other, the girls find themselves entangled in a mystery that involves a tattoo-like mark, their parents' deaths, a boy, a book, and a lifetime of secrets.

Lia and Alice don't know whom they can trust.

They just know they can't trust each other.

My Thoughts:

Alice and Lia may have the same face, but inside, are completely different people. One leans toward evil and one towards good. But nothing is as it may seem, for their roles in the prophecy separate them so completely. Lia must find out her role in Prophecy. And soon, before Alice does, for neither can trust the other anymore.

Prophecy of The Sisters enchanted me-- Michelle Zink crafted a dark, yet enticing world that sucked me in to a place where magic is real and danger is a little too close to home. Both heart wrenching and terrifying, this book took me through an interval of emotions which left me wanting more. Michelle Zink knows how to weave a reader into a fantastic world of things both shadow and light.

When I first started this book, I didn't exactly know what I was about to read. I was delightfully surprised, however, to discover such a unique tale. Lia is a character, I'm sure, anyone can relate. Already familiar with love and loss, Lia is our ideal humble heroine. Not exactly popular like her twin, Alice, but already loved by James, the booksellers son. An interesting relationship between the twins arises when the details of the prophecy are made known after their fathers death.

I really never had any problems with Prophecy of The Sisters. Since it was such an interesting read, I took my time reading it instead of finishing it quickly. The pace helped this a bit because it wasn't really set fast. If I had anything to complain about, it would be that I would have liked to see James a bit more. I really did enjoy his character and at one point I thought Alice may try under handing Lia by attempting to steal him away! What really kept me reading was the need to figure out the prophecy (along with Lia). I don't think I could have put the book down if I wanted to, since I'm such a curious person.

Both the story and the cast of characters are captivating and I cannot wait to read the next in the series! Coming up next... an Interview with the lovely Michelle Zink!

Details:

Cover: 5.0
Plot: 4.8
Characters: 5.0
Writing: 4.5

Saturday, July 25, 2009

In My MailBox -9

Since I am on Vacation this week, I have not been able to receive any of my packages! (Though, according to my mom, I have 6 waiting at home) So I will have to wait till next week to report on those. Here is what I bought though!

Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater (Hardback)

For years, Grace has watched the wolves in the woods behind her house. One yellow-eyed wolf--her wolf--is a chilling presence she can't seem to live without. Meanwhile, Sam has lived two lives: In winter, the frozen woods, the protection of the pack, and the silent company of a fearless girl. In summer, a few precious months of being human . . . until the cold makes him shift back again.

Now, Grace meets a yellow-eyed boy whose familiarity takes her breath away. It's her wolf. It has to be. But as winter nears, Sam must fight to stay human--or risk losing himself, and Grace, forever.

---------------------------------

So that's that! What did you guys get?

In My MailBox was created by: The Story Siren.

Wednesday, July 22, 2009

Waiting on Wednesday -8


The Hollow by Jessica Verday


Release Date: September 1, 2009

Publisher: Simon Pulse

Synopsis:

When Abbey's best friend, Kristen, vanishes at the bridge near Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, everyone else is all too quick to accept that Kristen is dead?and rumors fly that her death was no accident. Abbey goes through the motions of mourning her best friend, but privately, she refuses to believe that Kristen is really gone. Then she meets Caspian, the gorgeous and mysterious boy who shows up out of nowhere at Kristen's funeral, and keeps reappearing in Abbey's life. Caspian clearly has secrets of his own, but he's the only person who makes Abbey feel normal again...but also special.

Just when Abbey starts to feel that she might survive all this, she learns a secret that makes her question everything she thought she knew about her best friend. How could Kristen have kept silent about so much? And could this secret have led to her death? As Abbey struggles to understand Kristen's betrayal, she uncovers a frightening truth that nearly unravels her—one that will challenge her emerging love for Caspian, as well as her own sanity.

-----------------------------------

I am really excited about this upcoming release. Jessica Verday actually just posted a fantastic Book Trailer for The Hollow. Here it is!


Waiting on Wednesday is brought to us by: Breaking The Spine.

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Beautiful Creatures Book Trailer


I don't know about you, But I am super excited about the release of Beautiful Creatures this year. Well Little, Brown just released the Teaser website! I think everyone should check it out.
x)

Check out the Teaser Website: Beautiful Creatures


Monday, July 20, 2009

Cross My Heart And Hope To Spy by Ally Carter


Rating: 4.1/5.0

Re-Read? This was so fast and cute, I can't wait to find time to re-read it!

Recommend? Yep! To anyone who loved the first book.

Release Date: Reprint: December 28, 2008
Publisher: Hyperion Book CH
Pages: 256 (Paperback)

Synopsis:

After staking out, obtaining, and then being forced to give up her first boyfriend, Josh, all Cammie Morgan wants is a peaceful semester. But that's easier said than done when you're a CIA legacy and go to the premier school in the world . . . for spies.

Cammie may have a genius I.Q., but there are still a lot of things she doesn't know. Like, will her ex-boyfriend even remember she exists? And how much trouble is she really in after what happened last semester? And most of all, why is her mother acting so strangely?

Despite Cammie's best intentions to be a normal student, danger seems to follow her. She and her friends learn that their school is going to play host to some mysterious guests--code name: Blackthorne. Then she's blamed for a security breach that leaves the school's top secret status at risk.

Soon, Cammie and her friends are crawling through walls and surveilling the school to learn the truth about Blackthorne and clear Cammie's name. Even though they have confidence in their spy skills, this time the targets are tougher (and hotter), and the stakes for Cammie's heart--and her beloved school--are higher than ever.

My Thoughts:

In this second Gallagher girls novel, Cammie and her friends are faced with a whole new set of problems. Sure, Cammie can speak fourteen different languages and infiltrate any security system. What she can't handle is seeing Josh again-- especially when hes not alone. While dealing with all of her mixed up feelings over Josh, Cammie, Bex and Liz have a new case to crack-- Blackthorne. Time to turn from school girls to spies once again!

In this delightful sequel to I'd Tell You That I Love You, But Then I'd Have To Kill You, Ally Carter does not disappoint! The spy tales of the Gallagher girls continue with even more boy drama, heart break, trust issues, and of course-- espionage fun!

The introduction to a few new characters kept the plot refreshing and interesting-- especially characters as enticing as Zach. Seemingly the bad-boy Josh wasn't, Zach showed me a different side to Cammie. He brought qualities out of her Josh would never have been able to touch. Both figuratively and literately.

Cross My Heart And Hope To Spy had me just as entranced as its predecessor. I can't wait to get my hands on Don't Judge A Girl By Her Cover, which came out June 8th!

Details:

Cover: 4.0
Plot: 4.0
Characters: 4.5
Writing: 4.0

Saturday, July 18, 2009

In My Mailbox -8


Since I got so many fabulous books last week, this week was rather slow. But! I am greatly looking forward to reading these none-the-less. It's about quality, not quantity. x) Here is what I got!


Cross My Heart And Hope To Spy by Ally Carter (Paperback)

Synopsis:

After staking out, obtaining, and then being forced to give up her first boyfriend, Josh, all Cammie Morgan wants is a peaceful semester. But that's easier said than done when you're a CIA legacy and go to the premier school in the world . . . for spies.

Cammie may have a genius I.Q., but there are still a lot of things she doesn't know. Like, will her ex-boyfriend even remember she exists? And how much trouble is she really in after what happened last semester? And most of all, why is her mother acting so strangely?

Despite Cammie's best intentions to be a normal student, danger seems to follow her. She and her friends learn that their school is going to play host to some mysterious guests--code name: Blackthorne. Then she's blamed for a security breach that leaves the school's top secret status at risk.

Soon, Cammie and her friends are crawling through walls and surveilling the school to learn the truth about Blackthorne and clear Cammie's name. Even though they have confidence in their spy skills, this time the targets are tougher (and hotter), and the stakes for Cammie's heart--and her beloved school--are higher than ever.

The Boyfriend List by E. Lockhart (Paperback)

Synopsis:

Ruby Oliver is 15 and has a shrink. She knows it’s unusual, but give her a break—she’s had a rough 10 days. In the past 10 days she:
lost her boyfriend (#13 on the list),
lost her best friend (Kim),

lost all her other friends (Nora, Cricket),
did something suspicious with a boy (#10),

did something advanced with a boy (#15),

had an argument with a boy (#14),

drank her first beer (someone handed it to her),

got caught by her mom (ag!),

had a panic attack (scary),

lost a lacrosse game (she’s the goalie),

failed a math test (she’ll make it up),
hurt Meghan’s feelings (even though they aren’t really friends),
became a social outcast (no one to sit with at lunch)
and had graffiti written about her in the girls’ bathroom (who knows what was in the boys’!?!).

But don’t worry—Ruby lives to tell the tale. And make more lists.


-------------------------------------
Well that is it for this week! Not my normal genre, I do say, but since I liked the first Ally Carter book and since I received the ARC of The Treasure Map of Boys, I thought I would give these a go!

In My MailBox was created by: The Story Siren.

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Forget Beach Reads. Darken Your Summer Days.

I had to post this-- This is something I deeply agree with!! Who wants beach reads when you can dig into some paranormal goodness? x) From Penguin Young Readers.



Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Waiting on Wednesday -7


Rampant by Diana Peterfreund


Release Date: August 25th, 2009

Publisher: Harper Teen

Synopsis:

Forget everything you ever knew about unicorns . . .

Real unicorns are venomous, man-eating monsters with huge fangs and razor-sharp horns. Fortunately, they've been extinct for a hundred and fifty years.

Or not.

Astrid had always scoffed at her eccentric mother's stories about killer unicorns. But when one of the monsters attacks her boyfriend—thereby ruining any chance of him taking her to the prom—Astrid finds herself headed to Rome to train as a unicorn hunter at the ancient cloisters the hunters have used for centuries.

However, at the cloisters all is not what it seems. Outside, the unicorns wait to attack. And within, Astrid faces other, unexpected threats: from the crumbling, bone-covered walls that vibrate with a terrible power to the hidden agendas of her fellow hunters to—perhaps most dangerously of all—her growing attraction to a handsome art student . . . an attraction that could jeopardize everything.

--------------------------------------

This is one book I am extremely interested in. I've heard many good things about it, but I can't wait to read it for myself. Killer Unicorns? Ought to be interesting. x)

Waiting on Wednesday is brought to us by: Breaking The Spine.

Eli's Weekly Post -1


Hello! So, my poll results came in and it appears above everything else (contests, reviews, interviews...) you guys would like to know a little bit more about me! I'm actually very flattered and would love to answer any questions you ask. So... please do comment with questions!


As a result of this Poll, I am going to be posting a weekly "Update" post to let you guys know whats going on with me. I will eventually have a set day to do this on, but as of now it is random. Anyways-- here are a few things about The Tainted Poet!

My basic Bio:

My name is Elise, but I go by Eli (which is pronounced Ellie). I am a nineteen year old college student who lives in the southeast. Besides my love for reading and reviewing, my other hobbies consist of Civil War Reenacting, sewing, drawing, writing and painting. I like the arts in general. Darren Shan is one of my favorite authors and it is because of him that I got into reading. My favorite genres are paranormal and fantasy, though I do love the occasional Chic-lit book. I am a very friendly person, so feel free to shoot me an email any time at: taintedpoet@gmail.com. That email is made particularly for this blog and I check it daily.

My Update:

Ok! Since this is an update post, I really do want to post some sort of update, haha. Well, it's 4:30ish AM on July 15th and I just got back from seeing... Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. It turned out pretty well, though I can't say it was amazing in particular. I am actually very curious how it seemed to someone who has yet to read the book. What are your opinions? Because of the fact I read the book, I obviously knew everything that was happening and I think it would have been more fun to have been experiencing it for the first time. I think I might have liked it a bit more, though I really did enjoy it. It was very funny actually, which was something I didn't expect.

Anyways, while at the theater, I saw a poster for The Gemma Doyle Trilogy which I thought was interesting. It wasn't a movie poster, though I know that it has plans to eventually become a movie, but more of an ad for the books. Anyways, just thought I would share! Anyone else see this around their theaters?

Well, like my sidebar says, I am currently reading Prophecy of the Sisters by Michelle Zink and I have to say I absolutely love it so far. It has already hit some book stores (its release date is set at August 1st), so if I were you I would go out and check! I have seen it and it is absolutely gorgeous.

Well that pretty much wraps up my very first Update post. But I want to end with this note: I have a contest coming up very soon, so if I were you I would keep checking back! ;)

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Teaser Tuesday -5


This weeks Teaser Tuesday is an excerpt from Prophecy of The Sisters by Michelle Zink. Teaser Tuesday is brought to us by Should Be Reading.

My Teaser:

"Our voices make ghostly music in the emptiness behind my eyelids. They work together-- mine, Luisa's, and Sonia's-- creating a whispery backdrop to the darkness into which I will myself to fall." Page 265 by Michelle Zink.

This is an ARC, so it is subject to change! :)

Rules:
1) Grab your current read
2) Open to a random page
3) Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
4) BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
5) Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

Monday, July 13, 2009

I'd Tell You That I Love You, But Then I'd Have To Kill You by Ally Carter


Rating: 4.0/5.0

Re-Read? Yes I would. It's just that cute!

Recommend? I recommend this to any Chic-Lit Fan.

Release Date: April 25, 2006
Publisher: Hyperion Book CH
Pages: 288 (Paperback)

Synopsis:

Cammie Morgan is a student at the Gallagher Academy for Exceptional Young Women, a fairly typical all-girls school-that is, if every school taught advanced martial arts in PE and the latest in chemical warfare in science, and students received extra credit for breaking CIA codes in computer class. The Gallagher Academy might claim to be a school for geniuses but it's really a school for spies.

Even though Cammie is fluent in fourteen languages and capable of killing a man in seven different ways, she has no idea what to do when she meets an ordinary boy who thinks she's an ordinary girl. Sure, she can tap his phone, hack into his computer, or track him through town with the skill of a real "pavement artist"-but can she maneuver a relationship with someone who can never know the truth about her?

Cammie Morgan may be an elite spy-in-training, but in her sophomore year, she's on her most dangerous mission-falling in love.

My Thoughts:

Fifteen-year-old Cammie and her friends, Bex and Liz. are more then just "normal" girls. They're Gallagher Girls. Now, if you ask a townie what the Gallagher Girls' are, they would mostly likely say: Rich Juvenile Heiresses that include traits such as snobby and vain. This is in fact, false. Gallagher Academy is an all girls school for geniuses. All of their students can speak up to fourteen different languages and take classes so advanced that people usually do not take them until they are earning their PH.D. Not everyone who attends is wealthy, but the acceptance is very exclusive for one reason: The girls are training to be Spies!

I'd Tell You That I Love You, But Then I'd Have To Kill You is truly a cute read. I read this whole book in one sitting! The pace of the book is just right and the novel takes place in one school year. It's a book about acceptance. That even though Cammie and Josh come from two very different life styles, you can still find love if you give it a chance. Another thing this book explores is that fact that you will always get caught in your lie and you cannot let it rule you so completely that you forget who you are.

The characters are cleverly crafted, each bringing something different to the story. There is Cammie, the Chameleon, our heroine who is very good at making herself invisible. There is Liz, the science genius who cares as deeply for her friends, as she does for her studies. Bex, the beautiful, strong friend whose violent tendencies had me laughing throughout the novel. And of course, there is Macey: The once enemy, turned friend who gives you the truth and nothing but the cold-hard-truth.

Ally Carter cleverly portrays the life of a girl who despite all of her advantages, would like to experience a normal teenage life, even if it's just for a little while. While this book is identified clearly for a younger YA audience, I think any age really could enjoy it. I can't wait to go out and get the next installment, Cross My Heart And Hope To Spy.

Details:

Cover: 3.8
Plot: 3.5
Characters: 4.5
Writing: 4.0

What are you Reading Mondays -4


I think I've done pretty well this past week! Though not as well as I planned. Here's this week!


What I Read:

-Gone by Michael Grant

-I'd Tell You That I Love You, But Then I'd Have To Kill You by Ally Carter

What I'm Reading:



What I Plan To Read:

-Prophecy of the Sisters by Michelle Zink

-Evermore by Alison Noel

-Lament by Maggie Stiefvater

-------------------------------------------------

So that's this week for me! What are YOU planning?

This meme is brought to us by: J. Kaye's Book Blog.

Sunday, July 12, 2009

What Other are you?

Karen Kincy, Author of Other, put up this quiz to find out what Other you are. So take a go and find out! I got Pooka-- But then again, I told her so! x)


What Other are you?
Your Result: Pooka

You are a pooka! A mischievous shapeshifting spirit from Wales and Ireland, you have the power to transform into nearly any animal you wish, a wild black horse being your favorite form. Rumor has it that you lure people onto midnight rides, then dump them into ditches. Travelers wary of your trickery should watch out for your sulfurous yellow eyes. Gwen, the hero of OTHER, is half-pooka, though she's never met her Welsh father.

Werewolf

Kitsune

Dryad

Leprechaun

Watersprite

What Other are you?
Quiz Created on GoToQuiz

I would also like to say thank you to Karen for being my 100th Follower!! A contest is soon to come, so keep checking!


Saturday, July 11, 2009

Candor Book Trailer

Recently Pam Bachorz posted Candor's Book Trailer on her site. Since I did a WOW on it awhile back, I thought I'd post it! I thought it was pretty cool. x)

Pre-order Candor at: Amazon

Friday, July 10, 2009

In My MailBox -7

Ok, so I was kinda MIA last In My MailBox. Now I have two weeks of books to report on! For that reason, I am going to have to switch up the way I present them... So here we go!

Prophecy of the Sisters by Michelle Zink (ARC)

Shout out to my friend who loaned this to me!

Synopsis:

An ancient prophecy divides two sisters-

One good...

One evil...

Who will prevail?

Twin sisters Lia and Alice Milthorpe have just become orphans. They have also become enemies. As they discover their roles in a prophecy that has turned generations of sisters against each other, the girls find themselves entangled in a mystery that involves a tattoo-like mark, their parents' deaths, a boy, a book, and a lifetime of secrets.

Lia and Alice don't know whom they can trust.

They just know they can't trust each other.

Lament by Maggie Stiefvater (Paperback)

Synopsis:

Sixteen-year-old Deirdre Monaghan is a painfully shy but prodigiously gifted musician. She's about to find out she's also a cloverhand—one who can see faeries. Deirdre finds herself infatuated with a mysterious boy who enters her ordinary suburban life, seemingly out of thin air. Trouble is, the enigmatic and gorgeous Luke turns out to be a gallowglass—a soulless faerie assassin. An equally hunky—and equally dangerous—dark faerie soldier named Aodhan is also stalking Deirdre. Sworn enemies, Luke and Aodhan each have a deadly assignment from the Faerie Queen. Namely, kill Deirdre before her music captures the attention of the Fae and threatens the Queen's sovereignty. Caught in the crossfire with Deirdre is James, her wisecracking but loyal best friend. Deirdre had been wishing her life weren't so dull, but getting trapped in the middle of a centuries-old faerie war isn't exactly what she had in mind . . .

Lament is a dark faerie fantasy that features authentic Celtic faerie lore, plus cover art and interior illustrations by acclaimed faerie artist Julia Jeffrey.

The Devouring by Simon Holt (Paperback)

Synopsis:

When Reggie finds an old journal and reads about the Vours, supernatural creatures who feast on fear and attack on the eve of the winter solstice, she assumes they are just the musings of some lunatic author. But soon, they become a terrifying reality when she begins to suspect that her timid younger brother might be one of their victims.

Risking her life and her sanity, Reggie enters a living nightmare to save the people she loves. Can she devour own her fears before they devour her?

Bone-chilling, terrifying, thrilling...what are you waiting for?


Wintergirls by Laurie Halse Anderson (Hardback)

Synopsis:

“Dead girl walking,” the boys say in the halls.
“Tell us you
r secret,” the girls whisper, one toilet to another.
I am that girl.
I am the space between my thighs, daylight shining through.
I am the bones they want, wired on a porcelain frame.

Lia and Cassie are best friends, wintergirls frozen in matchstick bodies, competitors in a deadly contest to see who can be the skinniest. But what comes after size zero and size double-zero? When Cassie succumbs to the demons within, Lia feels she is being haunted by her friend’s restless spirit.

In her most emotionally wrenching, lyrically written book since the multiple-award-winning Speak, Laurie Halse Anderson explores Lia’s descent into the powerful vortex of anorexia, and her painful path toward recovery.

Generation Dead by Daniel Waters (Paperback)

Synopsis:

Phoebe Kendall is just your typical Goth girl with a crush. He's strong and silent...and dead.

All over the country, a strange phenomenon is occurring. Some teenagers who die aren't staying dead. But when they come back to life, they are no longer the same. Feared and misunderstood, they are doing their best to blend into a society that doesn't want them.

The administration at Oakvale High attempts to be more welcoming of the "differently biotic." But the students don't want to take classes or eat in the cafeteria next to someone who isn't breathing. And there are no laws that exist to protect the "living impaired" from the people who want them to disappear--for good.

When Phoebe falls for Tommy Williams, the leader of the dead kids, no one can believe it; not her best friend, Margi, and especially not her neighbor, Adam, the star of the football team. Adam has feelings for Phoebe that run much deeper than just friendship; he would do anything for her. But what if protecting Tommy is the one thing that would make her happy?

Evermore by Alison Noel (Paperback)

Again, dear friend, Thanks for loaning me this!

Synopsis:

Since a horrible accident claimed the lives of her family, sixteen-year-old Ever can see auras, hear people’s thoughts, and know a person’s life story by touch. Going out of her way to shield herself from human contact to suppress her abilities has branded her as a freak at her new high school—but everything changes when she meets Damen Auguste…

Ever sees Damen and feels an instant recognition. He is gorgeous, exotic and wealthy, and he holds many secrets. Damen is able to make things appear and disappear, he always seems to know what she’s thinking—and he’s the only one who can silence the noise and the random energy in her head. She doesn’t know who he really is—or what he is. Damen equal parts light and darkness, and he belongs to an enchanted new world where no one ever dies.

I'd Tell You That I Love You, But Then I'd Have To Kill You by Ally Carter (Paperback)

Synopsis:

Cammie Morgan is a student at the Gallagher Academy for Exceptional Young Women, a fairly typical all-girls school-that is, if every school taught advanced martial arts in PE and the latest in chemical warfare in science, and students received extra credit for breaking CIA codes in computer class. The Gallagher Academy might claim to be a school for geniuses but it's really a school for spies.
Even though Cammie is fluent in fourteen languages and capable of killing a man in seven different ways, she has no idea what to do when she meets an ordinary boy who thinks she's an ordinary girl. Sure, she can tap his phone, hack into his computer, or track him through town with the skill of a real "pavement artist"-but can she maneuver a relationship with someone who can never know the truth about her?

Cammie Morgan may be an elite spy-in-training, but in her sophomore year, she's on her most dangerous mission-falling in love.

The Treasure Map of Boys by E. Lockhart (ARC)

Synopsis:

Ruby is back at Tate Prep, and it’s her thirty-seventh week in the state of Noboyfriend. Her panic attacks are bad, her love life is even worse, and what’s more:

Noel is writing her notes, Jackson is giving her frogs, Gideon is helping her cook, and Finn is making her brownies. Rumors are flying, and Ruby’s already-sucky reputation is heading downhill.

Not only that, she’s also: running a bake sale, learning the secrets of heavymetal therapy, encountering some seriously smelly feet, defending the rights of pygmy goats, and bodyguarding Noel from unwanted advances.

In this companion novel to The Boyfriend List and The Boy Book, Ruby struggles to secure some sort of mental health, to understand what constitutes a real friendship, and to find true love—if such a thing exists.

Other Books:

These are books I have bought and that my lovely friends have given me.

-Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris (Paperback)

-Living Dead in Dallas by Charlaine Harris (Paperback)

-Undone by Brooke Taylor (ARC)

-After The Moment by Garret Freymann-Weyr (ARC)

-Beige by Cecil Castellucci (ARC)

-StoneHeart by Charlie Fletcher (ARC)

-The Black Sheep by Yvonne Collins and Sandy Rideout (Paperback)

-The Dark Hunters by Sherrilyn Kenyon (Paperback)

-Thirsty by M.T. Anderson (Paperback)

-The Queen of Everything by Deb Caletti (Paperback)

-Sleepless by Terri Clark (Paperback)

-Every Boy's Got One by Meg Cabot (Paperback)

In My MailBox was created by: The Story Siren.

Thursday, July 9, 2009

Gone by Michael Grant


Rating: 3.8/5.0

Re-Read? Probably not because of the general size of the book. But maybe a chapter, here and there.

Recommend? Yes, I recommend this really to anyone.

Release Date: Reprint: April 28, 2009
Publisher: Harper Teen
Pages: 576

Synopsis:

In the blink of an eye.

Everyone disappears.

Gone.

Everyone except for the young. Teens. Middle schoolers. Toddlers. But not a single adult. No teachers, no cops, no doctors, no parents. Gone, too, are the phones, internet, and television. There is no way to get help.

Hunger threatens. Bullies rule. A sinister creature lurks. Animals are mutating. And the teens themselves are changing, developing new talents—unimaginable, dangerous, deadly powers—that grow stronger by the day.

It's a terrifying new world. Sides are being chosen and war is imminent.

The first in a breathtaking saga about teens battling each other and their darkest selves, gone is a page-turning thriller that will make you look at the world in a whole new way.

My Thoughts:

Poof. That's how it went. Teachers, adults, parents-- everyone fifteen and older, just gone. Fourteen year old kids are now having to take charge in a world very unlike the one they are used to. Gone portrays a world as it would be if the world were suddenly ruled by pre-teens. Simply... Anarchy.

Gone
really surprised me. I thoroughly enjoyed the plot line and the character development was executed well. I really got to know the characters in those five-hundred sum pages. I also liked the POV change throughout the book because it really gave you insight to a lot more characters then just Sam, Astrid, Quinn, and Edilio. I really liked Sam, which is important because I have a hard time getting through books with badly written protagonists. Gone was a quick read for being the five-hundred sum pages it is. Once in awhile I felt it lagging a little, but just as quick it would pick up the pace again.

Gone
's world appeared to be a parallel to the actual world, just a children's edition. The strong pick on the weak, the clever find roles for themselves, and a leader emerges. This book describes how people change when cornered with a crisis; how their true forms emerge and how they bloom to meet the task at hand.

I liked this book, and I recommend it to anyone who might find a Darwinist approach applied cleverly in a YA package appealing. Because I did.
Hunger, the sequel to Gone, is now available. I know I'll be picking it up!

Details:

Cover: 3.5
Plot: 4.0
Characters: 4.5
Writing: 3.0

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

Waiting on Wednesday -6


Candor by Pam Bachorz

Release Date: September 22, 2009

Publisher: EgmontUSA

Synopsis:

Oscar Banks has everything under control. In a town where his father brainwashes everyone, he's found a way to secretly fight the subliminal Messages. He's got them all fooled: Oscar's the top student and the best-behaved teen in town. Nobody knows he's made his own Messages to deprogram his brain. Oscar has even found a way to get rich. For a hefty price, he helps new kids escape Candor, Florida before they're transformed into cookie-cutter teens. But then Nia Silva moves to Candor, and Oscar's carefully-controlled world crumbles.

Read the first chapter: Here

-------------------------------------

I just had to choose this one for my WOW. Look at those lovely colors on that cover! x) Anyways, I've heard a lot of good things about this so far and I cannot wait to read it!

Waiting on Wednesday is brought to us by: Breaking The Spine.

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Eyes Like Stars Contest Winner


And the winner of the ARC of Eyes Like Stars is...

Jennifer!

Congrats! I'll email you shortly for your contact information. You have 48 hours to respond before it goes to the runner up.

Thank you everyone for entering and I hope you all join me again for my next contest!!


Monday, July 6, 2009

What are you Reading Mondays -3

I met most of my goals last week, which I'm happy with. Now, here comes this week!

What I Read:

-Fairy Tale by Cyn Balog

-Give Up The Ghost by Megan Crewe

-Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris

What I am Reading:



What I plan to Read:

-Gone by Michael Grant

-Prophecy of the Sisters by Michelle Zink

-Lament by Maggie Stiefvater

----------------------------------------------
So that's this week! What are your plans?

This meme is brought to us by: J. Kaye's Book Blog.

Related Posts with Thumbnails