Review: Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher- 4/5 stars

Thirteen Reasons Why
Jay Asher
4/5 stars

Not at all surprisingly, I really liked this book. Hannah Baker didn't just speak to her class mates. She also spoke to the readers of Jay Asher's novel. I loved Clay's character, and I experiences that huge range of emotions- rage, sadness, nostalgia, despair, love- right along with him, as I they were channelling through a set of headphones. Thirteen Reasons Why is the perfect balance of past and present, sadness and hope. It let us follow Hannah's story, all the way to the end, while by the end of the book, Clay's story had really just begun. And I loved every minute of it. At the very end of the book, there are quotes from people saying wow, you turned my life back around, or this book gave me hope. And while I thought Hannah's tapes, and every story in them that led to her suicide, helped us understand that we need to be the best people we can be, making sure to be respectful of others' feelings, in the end, Hannah Baker is still dead. I guess I just didnt get that resolution at the end of it. I'd still recommend Thirteen Reasons Why, but it's a bit like a Joudi Piccoult in the sense that you should have a happy book to pick you up right after. Or a marathon of Friends, either way.

What I'm reading: City of Bones.....I know I'm behind!

Q & A with Marie Lu, author of Legend and Prodigy

So first of all, if you ever get a chance to meet Marie Lu, you should take it in a heartbeat. She is super cool, and even in a panel full of hilarious and slightly loud-not that loud isn't good, of course-she managed to shine. Marie Lu, the author of Legend and the upcoming Prodigy, which releases January 29, spoke of fighter pilot dreams and video gaming jobs Not only are her books fantastical and incredibly inspiring, but to top it off, Marie Lu took the time to answer some questions from a newbie stalker/blogger. On her site, a lot of basic questions are answered. I tried my best to ask questions that I hadn't heard the answer to from her before. Her replies are really interesting; Check it out:

Hi Anna,1. June, Day, and Metias are all interesting names. What were the inspirations behind them?     June's name was inspired by the fact that her personality seems fairly close to a Gemini's personality, so hence naming her after the month. Day's street name symbolizes his outlook on life, as mentioned in the book, and how he believes that "every day is a new twenty-four hours. Every day, everything is possible." And Metias (pronounced "Meh-TAY-ahs"), well....his was a name I just made up and liked. :) It came from an old fantasy manuscript I once wrote.
*2. What academic path would you suggest for the aspiring writer?    I really don't think it matters what academic path you take if you're aspiring to be a writer, although of course many writers do have English or Creative Writing degrees. I, on the other hand, studied Political Science and Biology in college. The thing is, everything you learn will help your writing, no matter what it is (political science certainly crept into my stories--as did a little biology!).
*3. You have said that readers are often concerned about Ollie's welfare in the rest of the series. What role will Ollie play in Prodigy?    My lips are zipped on what happens to Ollie! But I can say that I love how much people care about June's dog, because Ollie is based on my childhood dog, a White German Shepherd. :)
*4. What's an everyday type of day like in the life of a successful author like yourself?    My writing life (and probably the lives of most writers) is composed of long stretches of hermit-y, solitary writing, followed by occasional bursts of OMGEXTROVERTACTIVITIES like Comic-con and BEA. It's a very bipolar lifestyle. :)
*5. Have you ever gotten any funny/crazy fan mail?    I did have one person ask me, quite seriously, to buy her a house. That was probably the weirdest email I've gotten!
*6. Who would be your top choices of actors for Day if Legend were to become a movie?    I see Day in a particular way in my head, so it's a bit difficult for me to cast him! I'm sure the casting directors will do a fabulous job, though. :)
*7. Metias acts as a mentor and role model to June. Who would you say has inspired you throughout writing Legend and Prodigy?    All of my favorite books inspired me. For Legend in particular, it was Les Miserables and Ender's Game. I'm also constantly inspired by other writers, and love reading about their successes and writing habits. It inspires me work harder on my own writing.
*8. What's your favorite color?    Blue!
*9. How would you describe yourself in one word?    Geeky

*10. How did you come up with the phrase, "walk in the light?"    "Walk in the light" was a phrase that just came to me when writing about Day, as it seemed like a perfect slogan for his character. I wanted to find a phrase that symbolized both seeking out the truth as well as doing the right thing (even when you're surrounded by darkness), and that one just fit.
*Thanks!~m

Tonight: Q&A with Marie Lu

Endlessly by Kiersten White GIVEAWAY--MY VERY FIRST ONE AHH

a Rafflecopter giveaway

***Review: Supernaturally by Kiersten White***

Supernaturally

Kiersten White

I am so very obsessed with this series. It has some definite spiciness. Evie is just so funny, and I love her kick butt awesomeness. Her powers are unique, just like everything about this book. Kiersten White has brought depth to Evie's story, though humor is always present. It's a must-read fosho!

***Review: Legend by Marie Lu***

Legend

Marie Lu

      I had the pleasure of meeting Marie Lu recently, and let me tell you, she is just as cool as LEGEND. If you haven't read this, you should seriously stop reading this review and go buy it. Now. But if you are a skeptic and need more incentive, well then here you are: Day is a rugged, mischievous, and intelligent "street con" who is so fiercely protective and loyal to those he loves that it may hurt him. June is a rebellious and privileged beauty with a past not as manicured as her appearance. They come from different worlds-completely different societies. So when Day, the Republic's most wanted criminal-though he is a criminal in the Robin Hood sense-, is accused of the murder of Metias, June's older brother and only family member left, one can imagine there is a huge amount of tension between the two. Who would have thought that they would have ever crossed paths? And when June finally meets the notorious Day, nobody could have guessed she would fall for her brother's supposed murderer. Especially not June. As their story unfolds, and Day is captured, their love is tested. I love this about the book. It isn't just a happy go lucky novel where the only problem is the girl's other love interest. I'm obsessed with the setting, which was inspired by a map of the world if basically all the glaciers melted-I know, cool, right? Legend is the epitome of perfection in my eyes. I absolutely loved it so much. It is action-packed and deluged with romance. You are seriously missing out if you haven't read Legend. And don't miss PRODIGY this January!!

SEVER giveaway on Instagram

Follow Lauren DeStefano on Instagram for a chance to win SEVER!! You just have to comment on the picture of the cover and the I test instructions to enter! Once she reaches 1,000 followers the giveaway will occur!

The Archived giveaway

http://veschwab.wordpress.com/2012/07/22/the-archived-comes-out-in-6-months-so-im-giving-you-6-arcs/ Since THE ARCHIVED comes out in 6 months, 6 ARCs will be given away!! Woot woot! Click on the link for the deets.

ANNA AND THE FRENCH KISS

Even if ANNA AND THE FRENCH KISS wasn't as fabulous and captivating as it is, I would probably like it anyway because, well, my name is, in fact, Anna. We have so much in common. I mean, I like boys with accents, she likes boys with accents. I have brown hair, she has brown hair. We ARE SOUL SISTERS.

Prodigy giveaway

Marie Lu is giving away two copies of PRODIGY! So click on the link below!!!

http://www.facebook.com/CitiesOfLegend

Review: Megan Meade's Guide to the Mcgowan Boys by Kate Brian

Megan Meade's Guide To The Mcgowan Boys

Kate Brian

When she was nine, Megan Meade met a group of terrible, mean, Popsicle-goo-covered boys, the sons of her father's friend -- the McGowan boys. Now, seven years later, Megan's army doctor parents are shipping off to Korea and Megan is being sent to live with the little monsters, who are older now and quite different than she remembered them.

Living in a house with seven boys will give Megan, who has never even been kissed, the perfect opportunity to learn everything there is to know about boys. And she'll send all her notes to her best friend, Tracy, in...

Megan Meade's Guide to the McGowan Boys

Observation #1: Being an army brat sucks. Except that this is definitely a better alternative to moving to Korea.Observation #2: Forget evil, laughing, little monsters. These guys have been touched by the Abercrombie gods. They are a blur of toned, suntanned perfection.
Observation #3: I need a lock on my door. STAT.
Observation #4: Three words: six-pack abs.
Observation #5: Do not even get me started on the state of the bathroom. I'm thinking of calling in a hazmat team. Seriously.
Observation #6: These boys know how to make enemies. Big time.
Megan Meade will have to juggle a new school, a new family, a new crush -- on the boy next door, as in next bedroom door -- and a new life. Will she survive the McGowan boys?

I love this book. So. So. SO. Much. I mean, who wouldn't? A house full of 50% shirtless, 100% BOYS? Yes, please. Or at least that's how we begin our journey with Megan, an army brat who is shipped off to a family friend's home when her parents are transferred to Korea. Did I mention that family friend has a house full of boys. These aren't just any boys for that matter. They have some issues, but over all they are all adorable, vulnerable, and sweet-especially  Miller, the endearing, vulnerable boy diagnosed with Asperger's. This is definitely a light read, full of funny immature boy jokes, such as, I don't know, drawing boobs on Megan's shirts, perhaps? But their is also a captivating story with Megan's determination and passion for her sport, soccer, and a love story that is really sweet. It's absolutely a must-read if you are wanting something light.

Sophie Jordan signing at College Station

If you don't know by now, I am a Texas girl, born and raised. So when I heard Sophie Jordan was signing in College Station at the College Station Library from three to four, you can imagine I was quite siked. After all, she is maybe like my favorite YA author EVAH. Unfortunately, I live in Dallas. Dallas is seven hours from College Station. My madre does not think fourteen hours in the car, only to stay for an hour, is a good idea. I guess I'll just have to tough it out until I see Dallas on her route...:(. Fortunately, you can and should go see the lovely Miss Jordan, author of the Firelight trilogy, if you are located closer than seven hours away. Like I am. Texas is just too darn big, y'all.
This link has some more info:
http://www.theeagle.com/article/20120714/BC0101/120719795/1003/BC01

EVERNEATH by Brodi Ashton review

Everneath

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.

Courtesy of Goodreads

This story is one of love, of loss, of sacrifice. Although set in the present, it reminded me of an ancient myth, as romantic and deluged with romance as it is. There is a true loyalty between Jack and Nikki, but there is a mysterious passion between Nikki and Cole. How do you choose between a dark, alluring bad boy and a caring, loyal sweetheart? It's a toughy. Personally, by the end of the book, I was head over heals for Jack, who you watch get pieced back together when Nikki returns from, well, Hell. Everneath gives a new view on the underworld, giving it a kind of sensual factor...But it was written with taste and class at the same time. I really enjoyed this one, and the ending is worth going to buy it right now! It's a must-read in my book!

Once by Anna Carey

I love the continuing theme from the first book to its sequel, Once.

Giveaway hosted by Rotten Apple Reads

Enter to win Obsidian, Onyx, and the pre-order of Deity!! Click the link to enter! http://rottenapplereads.blogspot.com/2012/07/lux-series-giveaway.html

Review for Beloved Purgatory by Katherine Pine

Beloved Purgatory 

Sometimes God has a good reason for breaking your heart.

Devi always feared God took her brother because there was something horrible about her. She’s about to find out she was right.

Courtesy of Amazon

A Sequel to AFTER EDEN, Beloved Purgatory is a must-read in my book. It explores the growing fallen angel theme, and takes it to new depths. You have this careful balance of good and evil, light and dark, between Devi and her brother, between Cam and Oz. Usually I can tell immediately what team I'm on in terms of boys. But as protective Cam, who is literally an angel, begins to let emotion and maybe even a hint of love seep through his hard exterior. And then there is Azazel: Oz. Though he is darkness incarnate, when he lets his vulnerability show with a falling tear or a sweet smile, I'm pretty sure no once can resist him! I mean that, and his bad boy charm. I love it when a book makes me wonder about things- little things like a high school crush or big things like your faith. Beloved Purgatory does both for me. I absolutely love this series! I cannot wait to read more, and I'm super siked for the Fallen Angels book number 3. This book is a must-read, as well as Eternal Eden!!! I give the series 9 out of 10 stars!

Anna Banks Giveaway

Write a review on Amazon for Of Poseidon!! After the 200th review, Anna Banks will be giving away an audio edition to one of her twitter followers! Mine is below, and I would love to hear what y'all think as well!

Of Poseidon, by Anna Banks, is truly incredible. I literally did not put it down for anything-eating, sleeping, speaking-anything. It reminded me of Firelight, by Sophie Jordan, in that it took a basic fairy tale theme to a whole new level. Mermaids, or Syrena, make for moody, yet enticing and yummy, boyfriends. Half mermaids make for spicy, sassy, alpha females. Lastly, extremely dramatic cliff hangers make for a crazy Anna. I absolutely cannot wait for the next read in the series, as this book quickly made me a huge fan. It's a must read!!

Just For Fins by Tera Lynn Childs review!!

Just For Fins

When Lily Sanderson decided to remain Crown Princess Waterlily of the mer kingdom of Thalassinia, she knew she couldn't just coast along in the current. But since she's spent the last couple of years on land, Lily's not sure she has the fins to lead a kingdom. Even her maddeningly pretentious cousin Dosinia seems to know more about ruling than she does.

But Lily has to dive in deep to keep her promise to Tellin, her mer bond in name only, who tells her his kingdom is suffering in the changing ocean climate. Lily knows this is a seven seas–sized problem. They'll need to create some serious waves to make the mer community aware and get it to join together to make things right. Lily has to lead the way, even if that means facing one of the iciest queens in the mer kingdoms.

Just when Lily thinks her double life on land and sea can't get any more complicated, an ancient mer law might separate Lily and her human boyfriend, Quince, after all. It feels as if the pair is up against a solid tsunami wave!

In this third installment in the series that began with Forgive My Fins and Fins Are Forever, Lily will have to find a way to balance safety and justice for the mer people and for the humans she loves.

Courtesy of Amazon

     It had been so long since I last read a book in the series that I was skeptical at first. However, as soon as I began, I immediately was captivated by Quince and Lily's story. I loved how Doe, Lily's spiteful cousin, begins to interact with her relative in a more humane way, even going so far as to show a bit of cousinly love. I was interested to see how the relationship with her would progress, and I was fully satisfied. I was more than satisfied with Lily and Quince's relationship. I hate when books end, and I'm like "Gosh darnit, I really hate when the bad boy gets killed and the feisty heroine gets left with the less muscly, "vulnerable", and obviously lesser male in the cliche love triangle...Ahem, Ahem, Forever, Ahem." In this case, I thought all the romantic conflicts were resolved, and any doubts I had about brooding bad boy Quince-who I totally picture like a Shia Labeouf and James Franco baby- were put to rest. At first I was kind of miffed that Quince wasn't in the story in the beginning all that much, but Lily's quests to other mer kingdoms kept me interested. I wish there would have been a little more action between Quince and Lily, but the moments they shared were passionate and almost made up for it. Plus, Quince's devotion was tested to new levels, and with a little help from Lily and the gang on occasion, they learn they can make it through anything. Just For Fins puts a modern twist on a collage of a million classic fairy tales. I loved it! I give Just For Fins 9 out of 10 stars, and it's a definite must-read!

Hush Money Review

Hush Money

They call their abilities Talents, and that’s what they call themselves as well. Talents are people born with supernatural powers, feared by the population at large. Possession of an “unregistered ability” has become illegal, and those who are discovered are forcibly removed to government-run research facilities. They do not return.

And so the Talents try, as best they can, to keep their abilities secret–some more successfully than others. For some, keeping that secret begins to define who they are. That’s where Hush Money begins…

Be normal, invisible. Don’t get close to anyone. Those are the rules to live by for seventeen-year-old Joss. She spent years as an outsider, hoping to hide what she is, until the new girl, Kat, decides she’s friend material. Kat doesn’t realize her mistake when she stands up for Joss against Marco, a guy who’s been giving Joss a hard time since freshman year. Joss is horrified when these heroics lead to the reveal of Kat’s Talent. Now she has an unasked-for best friend, who is the victim of an extortion plot by the school bully, who used to like Joss. And if all that weren’t complicated enough, Dylan, Joss’s long-time crush, is finally starting to talk to her. But as Marco’s best friend, can Dylan be trusted at all? Can Joss keep her secret and still save her friend? And what’s more important, staying safe or doing what’s right?

I loved this concept! The book was well written, captivating, and entertaining. I was enthralled with the balance of super hero and paranormal, survival and romance. The characters were extraordinary, as they did not it the mold of what has now become a recurring theme in YA reads- a brooding love interest, a feisty heroine, a suspicious villain, and a perky best friend. Instead, we watch Joss come into her own, and Dylan is filled with smiles. You are given an inside scoop from both parties, and the perspectives tie in nicely. I absolutely loved this read, but the love stops here. I'd absolutely recommend Hush Money, but the rest of the series was a major disappointment.  

Just For Fins by TLC

AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHH!!! Just For Fins is finally here! Tell me what y'all think about it!