Friday, March 30, 2012

Sneak Peek : [Onyx by Jennifer L. Armentrout]




Being connected to Daemon Black sucks… 
Daemon’s determined to prove what he feels for me is more than a product of our bizarre connection. I’ve sworn him off even though he’s running more hot than cold these days. But against all common sense, I’m falling for him. Hard. 
Our relationship issues aren’t out biggest problem… 
The Department of Defense is here. If they ever find out what Daemon can do and that we’re linked, I’m a goner. So is he. And when a new boy shows up a school with a secret of his own, things get complicated fast. I need to choose between my own instincts and Daemon’s. 
But then everything changes… 
I’ve seen someone who shouldn’t be alive. Daemon’s never going to stop searching until gets the truth. What happened to his brother? Who betrayed him? And what does the DOD want from them—from me? 
No one is who they seem. And not everyone will survive the lies
----

Onyx is the second book in Armentrout's Lux series. Now, I know I've never done a review of Obsidian (the first book) or the prequel Shadows but I sure can tell you it was awesome! I just wanted to share this snippet; Chapter 1 of Onyx (courtesy of Ms. Armentrout's blog)- just to give you probably the top reason why I can't for it:


Ten seconds passed between when Daemon Black took his seat and when he poked me under my shoulder blade with his trusty pen. Ten whole seconds. Twisting around in my seat, I inhaled the unique outdoorsy scent that was all him.  
            Daemon pulled his hand back and tapped the blue cap of his pen on the corner of his lips. Lips I was well familiar with. “Good morning, Kitten.”
            I forced my gaze to his eyes. Bright green, like the stem of a freshly cut rose. “Good morning, Daemon.”
            Unruly dark hair fell over his forehead as he tilted his head. “Don’t forget we have plans tonight.”
            “Yeah, I know. Looking forward to it,” I said dryly.
            As Daemon leaned toward me, his dark sweater stretched over broad shoulders. He tipped his desk down. I heard the soft inhales from my friends Carissa and Lesa, felt the eyes of everyone in class watching us. One corner of his lips curved higher, as if he were secretly laughing.
            The stretch of silence became too heavy. “What?”
            “We need to work off your trace,” he said, low enough that only I could hear. Thank God. Trying to explain what a trace was to the general populace was not something I wanted to get into. Oh, you know, just alien residue that rubs off on humans and lights them up like a Christmas tree and becomes a homing signal to an evil alien race. Want some?
            Uh huh.
            I picked up my pen and considered poking him with it. “Yeah, I figured as much.”
            “And I have this really fun idea of how we can do it.”
            I knew what his “fun idea” was. Me. Him. Making out. I smiled, and the green of his eyes heated.  
            “Liking the idea?” he murmured, and his gaze dropped to my lips.
            An unhealthy amount of excitement had my entire body humming, and I reminded myself that his sudden turnaround had more to do with the effect of his bizarre alien mojo on me than it did me as a person. Ever since Daemon healed me after the battle with the Arum, we were connected, and while that seemed to be enough for him to jump into a relationship, it wasn’t for me.
            It wasn’t real.
            I wanted what my parents had. Undying love. Powerful. True. A whacked-out alien bond couldn’t do that for me.
            “Not in this lifetime, buddy,” I said finally.
            “Resistance is futile, Kitten.”
            “So is your charm.”
            “We’ll see.”
            Rolling my eyes, I faced the front of the classroom. Daemon was a total babe, but he was stab-worthy, which, at times, zeroed out the babe part. Not always, though.
            Our ancient trig teacher shuffled in, clutching a thick wad of papers while he waited for the tardy bell.
            Daemon poked me with his pen. Again.
            Squeezing my hands into fists, I debated ignoring him. I knew better. He’d just keep poking me. Turning around, I glared at him. “What, Daemon?”
            He moved as fast as a cobra striking. With a grin that did funny things to my stomach, he glided his fingers along my cheek, plucking a tiny bit of fuzz out of my hair.
            I stared at him.
            “After school…”
            I started to get all kinds of crazy ideas as his grin turned wicked, but I wasn’t playing his game anymore. I rolled my eyes and whipped back around. I would resist my hormones…and the way he got to me like no one else.
            A slight tic of pain throbbed behind my left eye the rest of the morning, which I totally blamed on Daemon.
            By lunch, I felt like someone had sucker punched me in the head. The steady noise of the cafeteria and the mix of disinfectant and burned food made me want to run from the room. 
            “You going to eat that?” Dee Black gestured at my untouched cottage cheese and pineapple.
            Shaking my head, I pushed my tray over, and my stomach roiled as she dug in.
            “You could eat the football team under the table.” Lesa watched Dee with obvious envy sparkling in her dark eyes. I couldn’t blame her. I’d once seen Dee eat an entire package of Oreos in one sitting. “How do you do it?”
            Dee shrugged dainty shoulders. “I guess I have a fast metabolism.”
            “What did you guys do this weekend?” Carissa asked, frowning as she wiped her glasses with the sleeve of her shirt. “I was filling out college applications.”
            “I was making out with Chad all weekend.” Lesa grinned.
            Both girls looked at Dee and me, waiting for us to share. I guessed the whole killing-a-psycho-alien-and-almost-dying thing probably wasn’t something to throw out there.
            “We hung out and watched stupid movies,” Dee answered, giving me a slight smile as she tucked a shiny black curl behind her ear. “It was kind of boring.”
            Lesa snorted. “You guys are always boring.”
            I started to smile, but a warm tingle skated across the nape of my neck. The conversation around me faded and a few seconds later, Daemon dropped into the seat to my left. A plastic cup full of strawberry smoothie—my favorite—was set in front of me. I was more than a little shocked to be receiving any present from Daemon, much less one of my favorite treats. My fingers brushed his as I took the drink, and a jolt of electricity danced along my skin. 
            I yanked my hand back and took a small sip. Delish. Maybe it would make my tummy feel better. And maybe I could get used to this new gift-giving Daemon. Much better than the other douchebag version of him. “Thank you.”
            He smiled in response.
            “Where’re ours?” Lesa quipped.
            Daemon laughed. “I’m only at the service of one person in particular.”
            My cheeks flamed as I scooted my chair over. “You are not servicing me in any way.”
            He leaned in, closing my newly gained distance. “Not yet.”
            “Oh, come on, Daemon. I’m right here.” Dee frowned. “You’re about to make me lose my appetite.”
            “Like that will ever happen,” Lesa retorted with an eye roll.
            Daemon pulled a sub out of his bag. Only he could skip fourth period early to get lunch and not end up in detention. He was just so…special. Every girl at the table, besides his sister, was staring at him. Some of the guys were, too. 
            He offered his sister an oatmeal cookie.
            “Don’t we have plans to make?” Carissa asked, two bright spots coloring her cheeks.
            “Yep,” Dee said, grinning at Lesa. “Big plans.”
            I wiped a hand over my damp, clammy forehead. “What plans?”
            “Dee and I were talking in English about throwing a party the week after next,” Carissa jumped in. “Something—”
            “Huge,” Lesa said.
            “Small,” Carissa corrected, eyes narrowing on her friend. “Just something with a few people.”
            Dee nodded, and her bright green eyes glimmered with excitement. “Our parents are going to be out of town Friday, so it works out perfectly.”
            I glanced at Daemon. He winked. My stupid heart skipped a beat.
            “That’s so cool that your parents are letting you have a party at your house,” Carissa said. “Mine would stroke out if I even suggested something like that.”
            Dee shrugged one shoulder and looked away. “Our parents are pretty cool.”
            I forced my expression blank as a pang hit me in the chest. I truly believed Dee wanted her parents alive more than she wanted anything else in this world. And maybe even Daemon, too. Then he wouldn’t bear the weight of being responsible for his family.
During the time we’d spent together, I’d figured out most of his bad attitude was because of all the stress. And there was his twin brother’s death…
            The party became the topic of discussion at the table for the rest of the lunch period. Which was kind of cool scheduling, since my birthday was the following Saturday. But by Friday, the party would be all over the school. In a town where drinking in a cornfield was the height of excitement on a Friday night, no way was this going to stay a “small” party. Did Dee realize that?
            “You okay with all of this?” I whispered to Daemon.
            He shrugged. “Not like I can stop her.”
            I knew he could if he wanted, which meant he didn’t have a problem with it.
            “Cookie?” he offered, holding a cookie full of chocolate chips.
            Upset tummy or not, there was no way I could refuse that. “Sure.”
            His lips tipped up one side and he leaned toward me, his mouth inches from mine. “Come and get it.”
            Come and get…? Daemon placed half the cookie between those full, totally kissable lips.
            Oh, holy alien babies everywhere…
            My mouth dropped open. Several of the girls at the table made sounds that had me wondering if they were turning into puddles under the table, but I couldn’t bring myself to check out what they really were doing.
            That cookie—those lips—were right there.
            Heat swept over my cheeks. I could feel the eyes of everyone else, and Daemon…dear God, Daemon arched his brows, daring me.
            Dee gagged. “I think I’m going to hurl.”
            Mortified, I wanted to crawl in a hole. What did he think I was going to do? Take the cookie from his mouth like something straight out of an R-rated version of Lady and the Tramp? Heck, I kind of wanted to, and I wasn’t sure what that said about me.
            Daemon reached up and took the cookie. There was a gleam to his eyes, as if he’d just won some battle. “Time’s up, Kitten.”
            I stared at him.
            Breaking the cookie in two, he handed me the larger piece. I snatched it away, half tempted to throw it back in his face, but it was…it was chocolate chip. So I ate it and loved it.
            Taking another sip of my smoothie, I felt unease skitter along my spine like I was being watched. Glancing around the cafeteria, I expected to find Daemon’s alien ex-girlfriend giving me her trademark bitch look, but Ash Thompson was chatting with another boy. Huh. Was he a Luxen? There weren’t many their age, but I doubted Ash in all her supremeness would be smiling at a human boy. My gaze moved away from their table, scanning the rest of the cafeteria.
            Mr. Garrison stood by the double doors to the library, but he was staring at a table full of jocks who were making some intricate designs with their mashed potatoes. No one else even remotely looked in our direction.
            I shook my head, feeling foolish for being weirded out over nothing. It wasn’t like an Arum was going to bum-rush the high school cafeteria. Maybe I was coming down with something. My hands shook a little as I reached for the chain around my neck. The obsidian was cool against my skin, comforting—a herald of safety. So I needed to stop freaking out. Maybe that was why I was lightheaded and dizzy.
            It surely had nothing to do with the boy sitting beside me.
***
There were several packages waiting for me at the post office and I only barely squealed. They were advanced reader copies from other bloggers passing them along for review. And I was, like, whatever. Sure evidence I was coming down with mad cow disease.
            The trip home was torturous. My hands felt weak. My thoughts were scattered. Gathering my mail close to my chest, I ignored the way the skin on the back of my neck tingled as I climbed the porch steps. And I also ignored six feet and then some of boy leaning against the railing.
            “You didn’t come straight home after school.” Annoyance colored his tone. Like he was my own screwed-up, super-hot version of the Secret Service and I’d managed to evade him.
            I dug out my keys with my free hand. “Obviously I had to go to the post office.” I pushed open the door and dropped the pile on the table inside the foyer. Of course, he was right behind me, not waiting for an invite.
            “Your mail could’ve waited.” Daemon followed me into the kitchen. “What is it? Just books?”
            Grabbing the OJ from the fridge, I sighed. People who didn’t heart books didn’t understand. “Yeah, it was just books.”
            “I know there probably aren’t any Arum around right now, but you can never be too careful, and you have a trace on you that will lead them right to our doorsteps. Right now, that’s more important than your books.”
            Nah, books were more important than the Arum. I poured myself a glass, too tired to get into it with Daemon. We hadn’t mastered the art of polite conversation yet. “Drink?”
            He sighed. “Sure. Milk?”
            I gestured at the fridge. “Help yourself.”
            “You offered. You’re not going to get it for me?”
            “I offered orange juice,” I replied, taking my glass to the table. “You picked milk. And keep it down. My mom’s asleep.”
            Muttering under his breath, he grabbed a glass of milk. As he sat beside me, I realized he was wearing black sweats, which reminded me of the last time he’d been in my house dressed like that. We’d gotten into it. Our argument had turned into a steamy make-out session straight from one of those cheesy romance novels I read. The encounter still kept me up late at night. Not that I’d ever admit it.
            It was so hot, Daemon’s alien mojo had blown most of the lightbulbs in the house and had fried my laptop.  I really missed my laptop and my blog. Mom promised me a new computer for my birthday. Two more weeks…
            I fiddled with my glass, not looking up. “Can I ask you a question?”
            “Depends,” he replied smoothly.
            “Do you…feel anything around me?”
            “Other than what I felt this morning when I saw how good you looked in those jeans?”
            “Daemon.” I sighed, trying to disregard the girl in me that screamed, HE NOTICED ME! “I’m being serious.”
            His long fingers idly traced circles on the wooden table. “The back of my neck gets all warm and tingly. Is that what you’re talking about?”
            I peeked up. A half smile played across his lips. “Yeah, you feel it, too?”
            “Whenever we’re near.”
            “It doesn’t bother you?”
            “Does it bother you?”
            I wasn’t sure what to say. The tingling wasn’t painful or anything, just weird. But what it symbolized did bother me—the damn connection we knew nothing about. Even our hearts were beating the same.
            “It could be a…side effect of the healing.” Daemon watched me over the rim of his glass. I bet he’d look hot with a milk mustache. “Are you feeling well?” he asked.
            Not really. “Why?”
            “You look like crap.”
            Any other time his comment would’ve started a war in this house, but I just set my half-empty glass on the table. “I think I’m coming down with something.”
            His brows furrowed. The concept of being sick was foreign to Daemon. The Luxen didn’t get sick. Like, ever. “What’s wrong with you?”
            “I don’t know. I probably got alien cooties.”
            Daemon snorted. “Doubtful. I can’t afford for you to be sick. We need to get you outside and try to work your trace off. Until then, you’re a—”
            “If you say I’m a weakness, I will hurt you.” Anger pushed down the nausea in my stomach. “I think I proved that I’m not, especially when I led Baruck away from your house and I killed him.” I struggled to keep my voice low. “Just because I’m human doesn’t mean I’m weak.”
            He sat back, brows inching up his forehead. “I was going to say that until then, you’re at risk.”
            “Oh.” My cheeks flushed. Whoops. “Well, then, I’m still not weak.”
            One second Daemon was sitting at the table and the next he was beside me, kneeling down. He had to look up slightly to see my face. “I know you’re not weak. You’ve proven yourself. And what you did this weekend, tapping into our powers? I still can’t figure out how that happened, but you’re not weak. Ever.”
            Whoa. It was hard to stick to my resolve of not caving to the ridiculous notion of us being together when he was actually…nice, and when he stared at me like I was the last piece of chocolate in the whole world.
            Which made me think of that damn chocolate chip cookie in his mouth.
            The side of his lips twitched as if he knew what I was thinking and was fighting a smile. Not that little smirk of his, but a real smile. And suddenly he was standing, towering over me. “Now I need you to prove you’re not weak. Get off your butt and let’s work off some of that trace.”
            I groaned. “Daemon, I’m really not feeling well.”
            “Kat…”
            “And I’m not saying that to be difficult. I feel like hurling.”
            He folded his muscular arms, stretching his Under Armour shirt across his chest. “It’s not safe for you to be running around when you look like a damn lighthouse. As long as you carry the trace, you can’t do anything. Go anywhere.”
            I pushed up from the table, ignoring the rolling in my stomach. “I’ll get changed.”
            Surprise widened his eyes as he stepped back. “Caving in so easily?”
            “Caving in?” I laughed without feeling. “I just want you out of my face.”
            Daemon chuckled deeply. “Keep telling yourself that, Kitten.”
            “Keep using your ego steroids.”
In a blink of an eye, he was in front of me, blocking my exit. Then he prowled forward, head lowered and eyes full of intent. I backed up until my hands found the edge of the kitchen table.
“What?” I demanded.
Placing his hands on either side of my hips, he bent forward. His breath was warm against my cheek and our eyes locked. He moved a fraction of an inch closer, and his lips brushed my chin. A strangled gasp escaped the back of my throat, and I swayed toward him.
A heartbeat later, Daemon pulled back, chuckling smugly. “Yeah…not my ego, Kitten. Go get ready.”
Dammit!
            Giving him the finger, I left the kitchen and went upstairs. My skin still felt clammy and gross and it had nothing to do with what happened, but I changed into a pair of sweats and a thermal. Running was the last thing I wanted to do. Not like I expected Daemon to care I wasn’t feeling well.
            He only cared about himself and his sister.
            That’s not true, whispered an insidious, annoying voice in my head. But maybe that voice was correct. He had healed me when he could’ve left me to die and I had heard his thoughts, heard him begging me not to leave him.
            Either way, I had to swallow the urge to puke and go for a fun jog. Some sixth sense knew this wasn’t going to end well.




I. AM. DROWNING. IN. MY. TEARS. Now, tell me if that happen to you could you resist. Kah~!
I need this book now! Go pick Shadows and Obsidian before you read Onyx! You won't regret it.

Book Review #17 The [Immortal Rules by Julie Kagawa]


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In a future world, Vampires reign. Humans are blood cattle. And one girl will search for the key to save humanity. 
Allison Sekemoto survives in the Fringe, the outermost circle of a vampire city. By day, she and her crew scavenge for food. By night, any one of them could be eaten. 
Some days, all that drives Allie is her hatred of them. The vampires who keep humans as blood cattle. Until the night Allie herself is attacked—and given the ultimate choice. Die… or become one of the monsters. 
Faced with her own mortality, Allie becomes what she despises most. To survive, she must learn the rules of being immortal, including the most important: go long enough without human blood, and you will go mad. 
Then Allie is forced to flee into the unknown, outside her city walls. There she joins a ragged band of humans who are seeking a legend—a possible cure to the disease that killed off most of humankind and created the rabids, the mindless creatures who threaten humans and vampires alike. 
But it isn't easy to pass for human. Especially not around Zeke, who might see past the monster inside her. And Allie soon must decide what—and who—is worth dying for.
---

Afternoon, everyone! I, come bearing a new review! Julie Kagawa's newest YA novel - The Immortal Rules (Blood of Eden #1). Now, her last name may seem familiar to you and that's because she's also known for her hit YA trilogy - The Iron Fey. 

The Immortal Rules is a completely different environment from The Iron Fey, still of the supernatural realm but a different one. One we as YA readers are familiar with --- Vampires! I won't compare it to I.F because it's completely different and dare I say...BETTER. Not that I didn't enjoy I.K I did - certain aspects of it that is (more so Puck. I loved me some Puck. XD).

But, our heroine Allison is darker and gritter, she has a lot of problems going on. She lost her mom, she lives in a messed up society where she literally has to fight for her life. She lives in a world where vampires dominate and humans fear. It's be eaten...or be eaten. 


I loved how Julie didn't bombard me with information, she threw me right into the story. She trusted me to understand what was going on as I read, to pick up the plot as it moved forward. Another thing is Allison herself. She separated Allison's story into four parts - Human / Vampire / Monster / Wanderer. That was excellent; you're able to travel alongside Allison thru her transition in this new life.

As a human or vampire Allison is a fighter and she kicks ass. She's determined, loyal, SMART, and a go-getter. Allison even wields a katana as a weapon. I mean, A KATANA! Come on, that just screams badass, doesn't it? She's keeps heading forward even when her life is drastically changed. Or even when she's suddenly on her own..does she cry? whine? give up? NO. She's keeps fighting. And, that's enough to keep me reading.

Of course we have our heroes. Kanin and Zeke. I like how Zeke is the love intrest, but she didn't push it. It developed on it's own slowly..but surely. Loved LOVED Kanin. I need him back, I do.

I can't wait for the next book. I'm dying to know what happens to next. Will she find what's she looking for? What about what she left behind at the end? Will she get "it" back? Who knows...

Rating: 5/5

Quote: "You will always be a monster - there is no turning back from it. But what type of monster you become is entirely up to you."

P.S  Thank you to Netgalley/Harlequin for allowing me to get this galley. :)

Monday, March 26, 2012

Meet the Author: Interview with Elisa Ludwig


Today, I'm sharing a brief interview with author Elisa Ludwig about her new released YA novel - Pretty Crooked.


Willa’s secret plan seems all too simple: take from the rich kids at Valley Prep and give to the poor ones. 
Yet Willa’s turn as Robin Hood at her ultra-exclusive high school is anything but. Bilking her “friends”-known to everyone as the Glitterati-without them suspecting a thing, is far from easy. Learning how to pick pockets and break into lockers is as difficult as she’d thought it’d be. Delivering care packages to the scholarship girls, who are ostracized just for being from the “wrong” side of town, is way more fun than she’d expected. 
The complication Willa didn’t expect, though, is Aidan Murphy, Valley Prep’s most notorious (and gorgeous) ace-degenerate. His mere existence is distracting Willa from what matters most to her-evening the social playing field between the have and have-nots. There’s no time for crushes and flirting with boys, especially conceited and obnoxious trust-funders like Aidan. 
But when the cops start investigating the string of burglaries at Valley Prep and the Glitterati begin to seek revenge, could he wind up being the person that Willa trusts most? 
 ------

  • First, I am curious. What or who influenced you to start writing?
There probably wasn't any one thing, as I have always wanted to write, for as long as I could remember. In general, I would say it came out of my love of reading.



  • The concept of your novel is of a Robin Hood like heroine. What inspired you to choose that?
I was actually inspired by the Barefoot Bandit—he was still on the run when I came up with the idea and started to write about Willa. It was fascinating to see how he pulled off his schemes and how so many people identified with him.


  • Is there a favorite heist of Willa's you enjoyed the most? 
I love the scene in French class, because to me it's the scariest. She's such a newbie and she's taking such a big risk!


If you had the chance to be a Robin Hood, would you take that opportunity?
I probably would, but it would depend on the circumstances.


  • If there were at least two items in the world you would jump at the chance to heist, what would they be?
If it were a Robin Hood situation I would procure medicine and shelter for those who needed it.


  • What can we expect in the coming adventures of Willa?
Willa will be solving some new mysteries that have to do with her mother, and of course there will be kissing!



-----------
Thank you so much to Elisa for giving up time to answer a few questions. Go check out Pretty Crooked and get immersed into the world of Willa and her Robin-Hood adventures.
I'll be doing a review on Pretty Crooked soon, so look out for that!

Sunday, March 18, 2012

Win an ARC of Veronica Roth's "Insurgent"!



One choice can transform you—or it can destroy you. But every choice has consequences, and as unrest surges in the factions all around her, Tris Prior must continue trying to save those she loves—and herself—while grappling with haunting questions of grief and forgiveness, identity and loyalty, politics and love. 

Tris's initiation day should have been marked by celebration and victory with her chosen faction; instead, the day ended with unspeakable horrors. War now looms as conflict between the factions and their ideologies grows. And in times of war, sides must be chosen, secrets will emerge, and choices will become even more irrevocable—and even more powerful. Transformed by her own decisions but also by haunting grief and guilt, radical new discoveries, and shifting relationships, Tris must fully embrace her Divergence, even if she does not know what she may lose by doing so. 

New York Times bestselling author Veronica Roth's much-anticipated second book of the dystopian Divergent series is another intoxicating thrill ride of a story, rich with hallmark twists, heartbreaks, romance, and powerful insights about human nature. 

----
Fellow blogger, Bibliopunkk is hosting a give-a-way to win an ARC of Insurgent!

Veronica Roth's hit debut novel "Divergent" was a hit last year! Many a reviews said it to be similar to the hit trilogy "Hunger Games". I, myself am a bit of a fan.
Now, the sequel to -- Insurgent is approaching on May 1st! I'm very excitied for this to come out, dying to know what happens next.

 So, head on over and sign up! (click here) Read the instructions clear so you'll know what to do. Good Luck to all!

Friday, March 16, 2012


This Friday's Question:

Social Networking: Do you use Twitter or Facebook to promote your blog?  How has it benefited your book blogging experience? If not, how do you promote your blog? Share your twitter handle and/or Facebook link!

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Well, I do have a twitter. But, no it is not the base operation for promoting my blog. I had twitter WAY WAY before I decided to make a blog and reviewing books. So, to suddenly make a way to promote my blog was too much for me. On occasion I tweet something book-related but that's about it. I talk about various things on my twitter from music, movies, people and etc. 
I think one day I'll make a separate account just for promoting my blog..but not now. I'm content with everything.
Even so, I still like to follow my favorite authors on twitter and talk to them. Same goes for fellow book readers and bloggers. So...if you wanna follow, go right ahead and send me a request I don't mind! 

Twitter: @toshigem

:)

Book Review #16 [The Summoning by Kelley Armstrong]


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All Chloe Saunders wants is a life like any normal teenager – the chance to get through school, make friends, and maybe meet a boy.  But when she starts seeing ghosts, she knows that like will never be the same again.
Soon the ghosts are everywhere, demanding her attention.  When Chloe finally breaks down, she’s admitted to a group home for disturbed kids.  At first Lyle House seems okay, but as she gets to know the other patients – charming Simon and his ominous, unsmiling brother Derek; obnoxious Tori; and Rae, who has a ‘thing’ for fire – Chloe begins to realise that something strange and sinister binds them all together, and it isn’t your usual ‘problem kid’ behaviour.
And they’re about to discover that Lyle House is not your usual group home, either…
--

The Summoning is the first novel in the Darkest Powers trilogy by Kelley Armstrong. We follow young Chloe Saunders as she discovers and experiences a new world. She sees apparitions, spirits, ghosts. After having a mental breakdown Chloe's aunt sends her to a special place where she can get the help she needs. There Chloe meets other kids who in a way are just like her; special in the supernatural sense.

Now, I'll get straight to the point -- I didn't enjoy this book at all. I stopped about close to the end. I just couldn't take it anymore. If you look on my Goodreads profile, you'll be able to find a summarized version of feelings to this book. In case, you rather not do that here it is:

"I didn't like it. At all. I gave up half way through the book. It just seemed to drag way too long, I mean I understood what was happening way before and I mean WAY BEFORE Chloe (main girl) did. Okay, now Chloe I understand the frustration and the confusion that comes with anything supernatural. I get it, I do. But, GOOD LORD she rubbed me the wrong way. Not that she was a bitch or anything...It's just I found her...SO BORING!! >_< I mean, ugh I can't even explain it well, basically Chloe is as plain as bread. Nothing special, no special oopf. Now, the boys. Derek - Did we really need constant tell of his acne and body odor? I got it the first time, js. Simon - blah; nothing but his brother's shadow. Well, that's all I have to say. I doubt I'll continue this series. /shrug"
^
All of that is pretty much how I feel. Now, I am all for paranormal novels trust me. But, unfortunately this one just didn't do it for me.

I think this would have been much better and a bit more enjoyable if the main character or all of them actually had a bit more appeal.  Another note, this reminded me of Armstrong's Bitten novel; dull and unpleasant.

Rating: 1/5 

whoa. first time giving a 1 on here. o-o

Monday, March 12, 2012

Book Review #15 [A Spy in the House by Y.S. Lee]



Rescued from the gallows in 1850s London, young orphan (and thief) Mary Quinn is surprised to be offered a singular education, instruction in fine manners — and an unusual vocation. Miss Scrimshaw’s Academy for Girls is a cover for an all-female investigative unit called The Agency, and at seventeen, Mary is about to put her training to the test. Assuming the guise of a lady’s companion, she must infiltrate a rich merchant’s home in hopes of tracing his missing cargo ships. But the household is full of dangerous deceptions, and there is no one to trust — or is there? Packed with action and suspense, banter and romance, and evoking the gritty backstreets of Victorian London, this breezy mystery debuts a daring young detective who lives by her wits while uncovering secrets — including those of her own past.
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Follow me to the Victorian Era as I review Y.S. Lee's debut novel A Spy in the House (The Agency #1). We follow Mary Quinn a seventeen year old orphan who is shadowing as a spy for all-female agency. Mary is an out-spoken, independent, headstrong, and intelligent young woman whose been through a lot in her young life.

In the beginning we meet a 12-years old Mary on the verge of life or death. After escaping by the help of Annie, Mary enrolls in Miss Scrimshaw’s Academy for Girls. But, this academy is secretly the front of a detective agency for women.  Think of the times. It's in the 1800s' around this time women weren't taken very seriously. Only seen to do the housework. To "fragile" to do anything other than that. This is the catalyst for The Agency. Using that stereotype for women, no one would suspect them as hired spies. It's a perfect set-up when you think about it; it gives them the advantage.

Our male counterpart to Mary is James Easton. Oh James. He's witty, arrogant, and adorable! When he first meets Mary he has his judgement and questions. (I LOVE how they first met. How awkward was that? lol) But, as time went by and they saw each other more; James came to respect and appreciative Mary as an equal. They were an adorable pair, I really enjoyed their flirty banter. I also enjoyed how James and Mary's relationship is one that will gradual grow. Sadly, there is an obstacle in the way. Mary's secret --- of being a spy. I'm curious as to how everything will turn out when James find out. 

Either way, I will continue to follow Mary on her adventures along with James and the ladies of the Agency.

I recommend this to anyone with a thirst for historical romance/mystery.

Rating: 4/5



Thursday, March 8, 2012

Who Am I?

So, I decided to re-do my about me page.

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Name: Megan
Age: 20
Location: USA

Yes. So, my name is Megan and I am a reader/blogger/reviewer. I've been a reader since the age of 12, but I did not become an avid reader until I was in my sophomore year of high school since then it has grown.
I review/read Young Adult, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy, and the occasional Middle Grade novels. YA being the majority of my reviews.
After stalking and commenting on other readers' blogs, I thought "Why not make my own?" So, I started this blog last year in September.

Authors| Publishers etc - If you would like to contact me regarding anything on my blog, or if your interested in me reviewing/promoting a book, hosting a giveaway, etc. Feel free to contact me via email.

Email: busybookbee@aol.com
You can also find me at Goodreads or on Twitter - @toshigem

 I hope you'll follow along or continue to follow along as I continue to dive deeper in this world. :)

Library, Library where for art thou?

It's been years, and I mean YEARS since I last stepped foot into my neighborhood library. I know! I know! How could I right? The library should should be like my second home?

Yes and No.

Yes, I love books; which should be pretty obvious. I don't mind going to the library. As a matter of fact that's where I am right now as I am writing this blog post.

No. Mainly, because when I was a visitor of this establishment it was when I was in middle school/early high school years. Now, that I'm in college the only "library" I really do visit is my school when I need help with projects and papers.

So, today I decided to come back and boy am I glad. They totally upgraded on books. Right now, next to this computer I have at least 5 books I've wanting to read. Who knew I'd find it here? The only bad part is that I can't keep it, you know? But, hey! At least I get to read it.

Saratoga Library - my faith in you has been restored.

Saturday, March 3, 2012

On Wednesday....

I am waiting. And waiting, and waiting..
This coming Wednesday the UPS man will be handing me or my dad a box. And, in that box are two books (supposed to be three but my mom said no. stupid tax/shipping and handling.) I can't wait to read! And they are..

Y.S Lee's The Agency spy series A Spy in the House and The Body at the Tower.


Ugh, you guys have no idea how long I've been wanting to read this series! It's just something about spy/mystery series especially if it's based in a different era. I'll admit sometimes with certain books the dialogue kind of throws me off and my eyes may glaze over. (lol) But, I'm making an exception for this. :)
You can defintely expect a review of this once I've read it. Whoop-whoop!

Friday, March 2, 2012

Book Review #14 [Everneath by Brodi Ashton]



Last spring, Nikki Beckett vanished, sucked into an underworld known as the Everneath, where immortals Feed on the emotions of despairing humans. Now she's returned- to her old life, her family, her friends- before being banished back to the underworld... this time forever. 
She has six months before the Everneath comes to claim her, six months for good-byes she can't find the words for, six months to find redemption, if it exists. 
Nikki longs to spend these months reconnecting with her boyfriend, Jack, the one person she loves more than anything. But there's a problem: Cole, the smoldering immortal who first enticed her to the Everneath, has followed Nikki to the mortal world. And he'll do whatever it takes to bring her back- this time as his queen. 
As Nikki's time grows short and her relationships begin slipping from her grasp, she's forced to make the hardest decision of her life: find a way to cheat fate and remain on the Surface with Jack or return to the Everneath and become Cole's...
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Isn't this cover just so pretty? Love the red dress and the backdrop. Yeah.

Today I'll be reviewing Brodi Ashton's YA novel Everneath. Similar to my last book review this book is based on a piece of Greek Mythology; more specifically Hades and Persephone. You guys know the story right? Hades was in love with her. so he tricked Persephone to stay in the Underworld by getting her to eat 4 seeds from a pomegranate. She's stuck there for 4 months and the other months she gets come back to the surface. Blah Blah.

Anyway, in this novel our versions of Hades and Lady P. are Cole and Nikki. What I loved about these two was that everything was pretty much clear cut. There was no beating around the bush. Cole knew Nikki didn't want to be with him, just like Nikki knew that she'll never really escape Cole. This book can easily be mistaken as Nikki moping around doing the teenage angst party but it wasn't. The only thing Nikki wanted was redemption. To apologize, to make-up for the mistake she made before her time runs out again.

Another character we are introduced to is Jack. OH JACK. JACK...It's impossible not to fall for him. After losing Nikki for so long, he never gave up on her. I loved his reaction when he found out she was back. Everything between Nikki and Jack is so simple, you can tell they love each other so much.

You know when you read a YA novel there's almost ALWAYS a love-triangle? And, half of them are just so frustrating because the girl can never make up her mind, or one of the guys is complete douche? Ms. Aston did this triangle SO WELL! You can't hate Cole or Jack. You end up feeling for the both of them. And, that's what makes it so hard to pick a guy to root for. I swayed back and forth while I read this. Ugh, damn you Brodi Aston for making me love both these boys. If I had to pick a team...arrghhh I'd go --- TEAM JACK. (sorry Cole -________-) I mean yes I won't deny the whole elusive bad boy thing Cole got going on is entincing. But, Jack...OH SWEET SUGARY HEAVEN JACK. He's so sweet, caring, protective and just..well damn it he's Jack and that's all the reason I need. Hmph.

I recommend this book to anyone looking for a solid YA novel, a non-hair ripping frustrating love triangle with a splash of Greek mythology to make things interesting.


Rating: 5/5

Quote: "Heroes are made by the paths they choose, not the powers they are graced with.”


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