Waiting on Wednesday-December 31

Waiting on Wednesday is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

My pick for the last day of 2008 is Evermore by Alyson Noel (February 3, 2009)!

Summary (from Amazon):  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.

My thoughts:  It's written by Alyson Noel, need I say more?

I hope everyone has a very safe & happy new year!  See ya in 2009!

In My Mailbox (December 28)

In My Mailbox comes from the awesome mind of Kristi "The Story Siren".  Each Sunday, bloggers share the books they received via mail, store, or library.  For more info about In My Mailbox click here.

This week, I received these in the mail:

The Hunger Games (for review) by Suzanne Collins

You Are So Undead To Me by Stacey Jay-Thanks Lenore!

I bought these for myself before Christmas:

Sweethearts by Sara Zarr

Cracked Up To Be by Courtney Summers

Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles

Kissed By An Angel by Elizabeth Chandler

My mom bought these for me after Christmas (that means no books for Christmas, but I did get a Borders gift card from my awesome little sister):

Local Girls by Jenny O'Connell

Dedication by Emma McLaughlin & Nicola Kraus

The Secret Rites of Social Butterflies by Lizabeth Zindel

What Would Emma Do by Eileen Cook

Frenemies by Alexa Young

(The first 3 were on major clearance at Borders!)

Speaking of clearance, check our Barnes & Noble's online after-Christmas sale (it is also going on in stores, but not as many books are available to choose).  I bought several last night that will be included in next week's edition of In My Mailbox.

Stay tuned...

Invisible Touch

Invisible Touch

Kelly Parra

Released October 2008

MTV Books

Summary (from Amazon): Kara Martinez has been trying to be "normal" ever since the accident that took her father's life when she was eleven years old. She's buried the caliente side of her Mexican heritage with her father and tried to be the girl her rigid mother wants her to be -- compliant and dressed in pink, and certainly not acting out like her older brother Jason. Not even Danielle, her best friend at Valdez High, has seen the real Kara; only those who read her anonymous blog know the deepest secrets of the Sign Seer.

Because Kara has a gift -- one that often feels like a curse. She sees signs, visions that are clues to a person's fate, if she can put together the pieces of the puzzle in time. So far, she's been able to solve the clues and avert disaster for those she's been warned about -- until she sees the flash of a gun on a fellow classmate, and the stakes are raised higher than ever before. Kara does her best to follow the signs, but it's her heart that wanders into new territory when she falls for a mysterious guy from the wrong side of town, taking her closer to answers she may not be able to handle. Will her forbidden romance help her solve the deadly puzzle before it's too late...or lead her even further into danger?

Review:  What more can I say than WOW?!?  Before reading this one, I was expecting a unique story that would captivate my attention.  Kelly Parra totally exceeded my (already high) expectations and knocked my socks off! 

As I stated before, I tend to read realistic fiction books, so I was out of my comfort zone with this one, but I loved every minute of it.  While most readers probably don't see warning signs on the chests of others, I feel that everyone can somehow relate to Kara--whether it be due to the death of a loved one, conflicts with parents, or falling in love for the first time.

In YA lit, diversity is increasing, yet still has a way to go.  Kelly Parra did an excellent job of incorporating diverse characters and settings, without being at all stereotypical.  

Invisible Touch was action-packed, due to its many twists and turns.  In addition, Parra mixed suspense, mystery, and romance (one of my favorite elements) into one fantastic story!

In a couple of my previous posts, I heralded several books among the best books of 2008. Kelly Parra's Invisible Touch is in my top ten favorites of this year, in the company of powerhouses like Paper Towns and Living Dead Girl.  It really is phenomenal.  

If you've not yet had the pleasure of reading Invisible Touch, I highly recommend you pick it up on your next trip to your local bookstore!

Season's Greetings!

Waiting on Wednesday--And Christmas (December 24)

Waiting on Wednesday is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine.

It seems that every YA book blogger has their hands on this book, except for me.  So my WOW pick is Wintergirls by the awesomely fabulous Laurie Halse Anderson.

I have been a HUGE fan of Laurie's ever since my Adolescent Literature teacher introduced me to Speak.  I immediately became hooked on Laurie's writing.  While her novels cover a wide range of topics, she impresses me with each new book she publishes--and I am certain Wintergirls is no exception!

For those of you who have been hiding under a cave, here's a summary of Wintergirls (to be released March 19, 2009):  

“Dead girl walking,” the boys say in the halls.
“Tell us your 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.

Sounds awesome, huh?  

What new book(s) are you waiting for this week?

Awesome Contest but Ends in about an HOUR!!!

Alright guys, I am usually up on contests and post them in my sidebar.  However, I found another contest, but it ends at 7!  That's in about 55 minutes!

Laura's Review Bookshelf is hosting an awesome contest.  She giving away a $10 bookstore gift certificate, an ARC of Hottie, an ARC of Beautiful Americans, a SIGNED copy of Before, After, and Somebody in Between by Jeannine Garsee, and Popular Vote by Micol Ostow!!!

So now we're down to about 53 minutes, what do you have to do?  1.  Blog about Laura's Review Bookshelf.  2.  Leave a comment on each of her reviews.  

Easy, huh?  Let's get to it.  You've now got about 51 minutes.  What are you waiting for???

Awesome Opportunity for 14-18 Year Olds

Hey guys!  I thought I would be ready to review Invisible Touch today, but I'm not finished yet. Look for it tomorrow or Wednesday.

On Saturday, I reviewed Wake.  (If you still haven't read it, go out and get it NOW!)  Toward the end of the review, I explained that Lisa McMann will be hosting a contest for 14-18 year olds (sorry Sharon, you and I are out).  Lisa posted more information about the contest today.  

The Fund Your Dreams essay contest begins tomorrow and ends March 6, 2009.  The winner receives $1000 to help make his/her dreams possible.  (Yes, you read that correctly, $1000!) For more info on entering the contest click here.

Ya'll Lisa is seriously awesome!  When I found out how this contest came about, I became an even bigger fangirl.  Talk about a woman with a great heart!

Take advantage of this wonderful opportunity (I know I would if I was 8 years younger)! Remember you've got until March, but don't wait until the last minute, start drafting!   And good luck!

In My Mailbox (December 21)

In My Mailbox comes from the awesome mind of Kristi "The Story Siren".  Each Sunday, bloggers share the books they received via mail, store, or library.  For more info about In My Mailbox click here.

This week I received GoldenGirl by Micol Ostow (Whoo hoo!  Thanks so much, Micol!) and Odd Mom Out by Jane Porter (courtesy of Book Divas).

GoldenGirl (summary by Amazon):  Paige, Spencer, and Madison have it all: the looks, the connections, the money, the boys. As the daughters of three of the most prestigious families on Philadelphia's Main Line (read: old money, and lots of it) and the ruling juniors at Bradford Prep, nothing can stand in their way....except, perhaps, their own dark secrets. When an old frenemy from Paige's hidden past shows up at Bradford and plays nice--too nice--Paige is desperate to smother the threat. How far will she go to silence the truth?

 Odd Mom Out (summary from Barnes and Noble):  DOES SHE REALLY WANT TO BE A MEMBER OF THIS MOMMY CLUB? Advertising executive Marta Zinsser is no poster child for her wealthy Seattle suburb-and nothing could please her more. This formerar New Yorker wears combat boots, not Manolos, and drives a righteous Harley hog instead of a Mercedes SUV. Now she's launching her own agency in this land of the Microsoft elite, even though her ten-year-old daughter wishes she'd put on a sweater set and just be normal. 

Can this ex-urbanite remain uniquely herself without alienating the inner circle of smug, cookie-cutter executive wives? And when push comes to shove, can she stop being the proud odd mom out and take a chance at something frighteningly-and tantalizingly-new?

This week, I brought back a short list from the library, since I've not finished reading all the ones from last week.  The list includes Bliss by Lauren Myracle, Glass Houses by Rachel Caine, and Switch by Carol Snow.  

  Bliss (summary from Amazon):   When Bliss’s hippie parents leave the commune and dump her at the home of her aloof grandmother in a tony Atlanta neighborhood, it’s like being set down on an alien planet. The only guide naive Bliss has to her new environment is what she’s seen on The Andy Griffith Show. But Mayberry is poor preparation for Crestview Academy, an elite school where the tensions of the present and the dark secrets of the past threaten to simmer into violence. Openhearted Bliss desperately wants new friends, making her the perfect prey of a troubled girl whose obsession with a long-ago death puts Bliss, and anyone she’s kind to, in mortal danger.

  

   Glass Houses (summary from Amazon):  Welcome to Morganville, Texas.

Just don't stay out after dark.

College freshman Claire Danvers has had enough of her nightmarish dorm situation, where the popular girls never let her forget just where she ranks in the school's social scene: somewhere less than zero.

When Claire heads off-campus, the imposing old house where she finds a room may not be much better. Her new roommates don't show many signs of life. But they'll have Claire's back when the town's deepest secrets come crawling out, hungry for fresh blood.

 Switch (summary from HarperCollins):  Claire Martin has some serious body issues.

Not much happens in Claire's sleepy beach town, but that's okay. All she wants is to hang out with her best friend, make the high school swim team, and convince Nate, the guy of her dreams, to stop calling her "Dude." And, oh—she'd really, really like to stay in her own skin.

Ever since Claire hit her teens, electrical storms have been making her switch bodies. Usually she's back to her old self in no time. But when something goes terribly wrong, she finds herself stuck as another girl. And not just any girl, but the icy beauty who has caught Nate's eye.

Suddenly Claire goes from being Miss Average to Miss Gorgeous—the model-thin blonde that every girl wants to look like and every guy wants to date. Will she ever figure out how to get back to her old life? More importantly, will she want to?

Though this week's list is short, I am so excited about each of these books!  Luckily, with Winter Break just beginning, I have 2 weeks to relax and read (and clear my DVR)!  So look out for some reviews coming soon!

Wake

Wake 

Lisa McMann

Released March 2008

Simon Pulse

Summary (from Amazon):  Not all dreams are sweet.

For seventeen-year-old Janie, getting sucked into other people's dreams is getting old. Especially the falling dreams, the naked-but-nobody-notices dreams, and the sex-crazed dreams. Janie's seen enough fantasy booty to last her a lifetime.

She can't tell anybody about what she does -- they'd never believe her, or worse, they'd think she's a freak. So Janie lives on the fringe, cursed with an ability she doesn't want and can't control.

Then she falls into a gruesome nightmare, one that chills her to the bone. For the first time, Janie is more than a witness to someone else's twisted psyche. She is a participant.... 

My review:  Before reading Wake, I was a little unsure of the concept of the book.  The whole participating in other people's dreams seemed a little out of reach for me.  Man, was I wrong!

I am so glad that I took a chance, stepped outside my usual preferences, and read Wake.  Lisa McMann has an awesome gift of characterization.  Each of the characters seemed so real and I could relate them to myself or compare them to people I've encountered in my life. All authors don't have this ability, only the really good ones, like Lisa, possess such skill.

I am not an extremely fast reader right now because my time is so consumed with other things. However, I stayed up late at night and put some of my typical daily activities aside, so I could finish this one.  It was full of suspense and I was constantly asking myself, "What next?"

If you haven't already read Wake, what on earth are you waiting for?  It truly is a page turner.

The year 2008 has been full of remarkable YA novels. Wake is definitely near the top of that list.  

Lisa's sequel to Wake, Fade, will be out in stores in February.  Be sure to keep your eye out for it (I know I will).  In the meantime, check out Lisa's blog for some cool events leading up to its release.  And beginning Tuesday, she will be hosting an essay contest for those between the ages of 14-18.  Details can be found on her website (but not until Tuesday).  

All right, time for you to sound off.  What did you guys think about Wake?  Who's with me and counting down the days for the release of Fade? 

Christmas Break is here!!!!!!!!!

I know I cheated and did not post from my wishlist yesterday, but I was at Chelsea's author chat with the oh-so-nice Kelly Parra! If you haven't participated in one of Chelsea's author chats, make sure you do not miss her next chat with Micol Ostow. Check out Chelsea's blog for more details.

So now for yesterday's and today's picks, I decided to go with the first two books in a series, Death by Bikini and Death by Latte. If you haven't heard of these two books, you must be living under a rock because they have a HUGE following.

For those who have no idea what I'm talking about, here are the summaries from Amazon:

Death by Bikini: Aphra Behn Connolly has the type of life most teenage girls envy. She lives on a remote tropical island and spends most of her time eavesdropping on the rich and famous. The problem is that her family's resort allows few opportunities for her to make friends - much less to meet cute boys. So when a smoldering Seth Mulo arrives with his parents, she's immediately drawn to him. Sure, he's a little bit guarded, and sure his parents are rather cold, and okay he won't say a word about his past, but their chemistry is undeniable. Then a famous rock star's girlfriend turns up dead on the beach - strangled by her own bikini top - and alarm bells sound. Is it too great a coincidence that Seth's family turned up just one day before a murder? As the plot thickens, Aphra finds that danger lurks behind even the most unexpected of faces...

Death by Latte: It was only a few weeks ago that Aphra Connolly’s life changed completely. She had been living a quiet existence on her father’s secluded island resort, until Seth Mulo turned up and stole her heart . . . and provided information that led her to find her mom in Seattle. But the reunion isn’t quite what she expected. Aphra’s mom, Natalie, doesn’t seem happy to see Aphra, and Natalie’s boyfriend, Joe, insists that Aphra go home. Even worse, Seth shows up, only to ask her to return the ring he gave her the previous summer. At least Natalie’s hunky neighbor is sympathetic. But when Joe is found dead at a nearby coffee shop, Aphra discovers her whole trip to Seattle has been based on a lie. And now someone just might be trying to kill her. . . .

When I was younger, I read the Nancy Drew and The Hardy Boys series. I cannot wait to read these books by Linda Gerber because I love mystery novels and of course fun, fast reads. I've heard these books are full of enough suspense to keep you on the edge of your seat.  Plus the cover art for both is absolutely adorable. If you've never been to Linda Gerber's blog, be sure to check it out!

So, what about ya'll? Have any of you read Linda's books? If so, what are your thoughts? If not, anyone have any good mystery novels to recommend?

Til tomorrow...

Attention Megan McCafferty Fans

Ok, so I've already given you the heads up about Steph's Girl Week.  

Today, Megan McCafferty was featured!  Of course, Steph reviewed Megan's books, but there was also a very in-depth interview and a contest.

To read Megan's interview head here.

To read Steph's review of the Jessica Darling books head here.

To enter for a chance to win SIGNED copies of books 1-4 of the Jessica Darling books head here.

2 More Days Til Christmas Break!

From Barnes & Noble: 

Dear Anthony:

I appreciate your recent interest, but I'm not accepting applications at this time. Your letter will be kept in our files and someone will get back to you if there is an opening. Thank you for thinking of me.

Respectfully,

Alejandra Perez

P.S. It's not "Allie." It's "Ale."

Meet T.C., who is valiantly attempting to get Alejandra to fall in love with him; Alejandra, who is playing hard to get and is busy trying to sashay out from under the responsibilities of being a diplomat's daughter; and T.C.'s brother Augie, who is gay and in love and everyone knows it but him.

Since I read Steph's review of My Most Excellent Year, I have been aching to read it.  Normally, I am not into books, movies, TV shows that contain baseball in any aspect (I think it is the worst sport--well maybe golf has it beat), but I am willing to give this one a chance after reading so many amazing things about Steve Kluger's writing. 

Plus, I love a good YA romance novel.  The whole boy meets girl, boy tries to win girl's affection storyline intrigues me every time.  

What about ya'll?  Do you love books about love?  Or do you you think they're played out?  Have any of you guys read My Most Excellent Year? If so, what did you think?

Excited to read your comments!  Almost as excited as I am about Christmas break!!!

3 More Days Til Christmas Break

From Amazon:  When Casey McCloy steps into the elegant Bramford building, she’s overwhelmed. Fresh from the Midwest, she’s moved to New York’s Upper East Side to live with her grandmother and attend the prestigious Meadowlark Academy. Here all that matters is who you know. The girl to know is Madison Macallister: popular, pretty, platinumblond. She’s not just Casey’s new classmate and neighbor; she’s an icon. So Casey aims to get in with Madison and her gorgeous gal-pals from the start. As the reigning queen of coolness, Madison is capable of destroying reputations with one welltimed whisper. Better to be on her good side.

But after a city-haute makeover from her new frenemy Madison, Casey is wearing the right clothes, saying the right things, and meeting the right people—including Drew, the boy-about-town who Madison thinks belongs to her and her alone. 

Since today's wish list pick is the popular The Elite, you are probably thinking:  Has Shalonda been living under a rock?  Why hasn't she already read this?  I'm kind of wondering the same thing.

One of my favorite movies is Mean Girls.  I watch 90210 and Gossip Girl every week.  I've read Haters and some of the Pretty Little Liars books, so this one is right up my alley.  Here's the honest reason why I don't already have this one:  It is not carried in any of the bookstores here and I hardly ever order books online or do special orders in the store.  I could check it out of my library, but this is one that I know I want to own.  (As I posted this, I dropped the book in my Amazon shopping cart.)

So what about you guys?  Have you read The Elite?  Do you even enjoy novels about catty, spoiled little mean girls or do you think they are overrated?  What about other books that fit this category that I might enjoy (they truly are one of my guilty pleasures)?

Look forward to hearing what you all think...

Girl Week

Steph a.k.a. Reviewer X came up with this oh-so-fabulous idea of Girl Week!  What exactly is Girl Week?  Glad you asked!

For 5 days (it started yesterday), 14 authors are stopping by and providing guest posts about various girl-related things (ex. body image, society's view of women, etc.).  

In addition to authors' posts and interviews, Steph will be reviewing books, and of course, there will be some awesome prizes given away!

I have provided individual links to each of the contests on the Contests! section of the sidebar.  

For the links to each review, author post, interview, and contest click here!

4 More Days Til Christmas Break (And Yes I Truly Have Been Counting Them Down)!

From Amazon: Margarita "Madge" Diaz is fat, foxy, and fabulous. She loves herself, and is adored by almost everyone else...except queen bee/student-body president Bridget Benson. These two girls have a history that's uglier than a drag queen after last call. During a heated argument, they decide there's only one way to end their rivalry: be named prom queen and the other backs off -- for good.  

Of course, everything looks different in the sober light of morning, but pride is at stake and the race is on. Madge is committed to doing whatever it takes to secure the title, but so is Bridget. And everyone's got something to hide.

Welcome to Winter Park High School, where the dirt's not just gonna fly...it's gonna go into freakin' orbit.

For today's pick, I chose Fat Hoochie Prom Queen!  Don't you just love that title?  During busy times like these, sometimes I just need to stop, breathe, and read something light and fun.  

I haven't read Nico Medina's other book The Straight Road to Kylie, nor have I heard much about this one.  I guess you can say I am judging this one by its great cover and awesome title.  

What about you guys?  Have you ever read any anything by Nico Medina?  Can you suggest any other great books about popularity or rivalry?  

Lisa Schroeder's Far From You Release Celebration

FAR FROM YOU RELEASE CELEBRATION AND CONTEST!!!

Lisa Schroeder, author of I HEART YOU, YOU HAUNT ME, is celebrating the release of her upcoming YA novel, FAR FROM YOU, and hosting a contest with LOTS of great prizes!

For three days leading up to the book’s release date of December 23rd, you can watch VLOGs and hear some excerpts read from the book. The VLOG schedule is as follows:

Sunday, December 21^st – Liv’s Book Reviews - http://livsbookreviews.blogspot.com/

Monday, December 22^nd – What Vanessa Reads -http://whatvanessareads.wordpress.com/

Tuesday, December 23^rd – Lisa Schroeder, author - http://lisa-schroeder.livejournal.com/ AND http://myspace.com/writerlisa

Help spread the word, and you might win a fabulous prize!

Copy and paste THIS entire blog entry into your blog between now and December 21st, then come back to Lisa’s blog at either Livejournal OR Myspace and leave a comment with the link to your blog and you will get TWO entries to win a number of prizes.

Wondering what you might win? Here is the list (there will be multiple winners):

~ An Advanced Review Copy of THE FOREST OF HANDS AND TEETH, by Carrie Ryan

~ An Advanced Review Copy of SOMETHING, MAYBE, by Elizabeth Scott

~ Young adult novel GIRL, HERO by Carrie Jones

~ Young adult novel, THE POSSIBILITIES OF SAINTHOOD by Donna Freitas

~ Young adult novel, UGLIES by Scott Westerfield

~ Pair of YA fairy tale retellings by Cameron Dokey (BELLE and BEFORE MIDNIGHT)

~ TWILIGHT movie soundtrack

~ $15.00 Barnes and Noble gift card along with some Harry & David’s chocolate moose munch

~  And of course, a signed copy of FAR FROM YOU

For more chances to win, watch one or all of the VLOGs and leave a comment on that vlogger’s page, and you get another entry. That means if you post the schedule on your blog AND comment on all three VLOGs, you can have FIVE entries for the contest!

A live drawing with winners announced will be done by Lisa Thursday morning, December 24^th, in a special holiday VLOG.

In My Mailbox (December 14)

Thank you Kristi at The Story Siren for letting so many of us "borrow" this great idea!

In the mail this week I received:

The Day I Killed James by Catherine Ryan Hyde- Thanks so much Chelsea!  I look forward to reading this.

Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson- A huge thanks goes to Elizabeth Scott for this one.  I am a huge fan of Laurie's and I'm so thrilled to have received this from such an awesome author!

 

This week I bought these from Barnes & Noble:  

Crowned by Julie Linker-I competed in pageants for 19 years, so anytime I find something pageant-related, I'm all over it.  I haven't read Julie's other book, but just from reading the blurb and flipping through a few chapters, I am expecting a cute story!

Haters by Alisa Valdes Rodriguez-This is one of my favorite books!  I love the parallelisms to Mean Girls, which is one of my favorite movies.  Definitely a book I could read over and over again when I want a light, fun read.

I checked these books out of the library:

In case you can't read the titles, the books pictured are (from left to right):

Unraveling by Michelle Baldini & Lynn Biederman

The Opposite of Invisible by Liz Gallagher

Isabelle's Boyfriend by Caroline Hickey

All But Alice by Phyllis Reynolds Naylor

The Adoration of Jenna Fox by Mary E. Pearson (Yay Book Club!!!)

Confessions of a Triple Shot Betty by Jody Gehrman

Burn by Suzanne Phillips

I Know It's Over by C. K. Kelly Martin

Handcuffs by Bethany Griffin

Hot Mess Summer in the City by Julie Kraut & Shallon Lester

Alice, I Think by Susan Juby

All's Fair in Love, War, and High School by Janette Rallison

Are You in the House Alone? by Richard Peck

5 More Days Til Christmas Break!

From Amazon:  When Brittany Ellis walks into chemistry class on the first day of senior year, she has no clue that her carefully created “perfect” life is about to unravel before her eyes. She’s forced to be lab partners with Alex Fuentes, a gang member from the other side of town, and he is about to threaten everything she's worked so hard for—her flawless reputation, her relationship with her boyfriend, and the secret that her home life is anything but perfect. Alex is a bad boy and he knows it. So when he makes a bet with his friends to lure Brittany into his life, he thinks nothing of it. But soon Alex realizes Brittany is a real person with real problems, and suddenly the bet he made in arrogance turns into something much more.  In a passionate story about looking beneath the surface, Simone Elkeles breaks through the stereotypes and barriers that threaten to keep Brittany and Alex apart.

I am a sucker for romance, so today's wish list pick is Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles. Who doesn't love a bad boy who turns out to be a good guy once he meets the right girl?  I haven't read Perfect Chemistry, but I am assuming this is what happens with Alex and Brittany. And I am dying to find out...

The reviews I've read of this book pretty much state that although the book has a Romeo and Juliet vibe, it is NOT the typical, predictable read that one might assume.  Because this book hits the shelves 2 days before Christmas, I will be purchasing it for myself (while I am finishing my last minute shopping because I am such a procrastinator)!

If you haven't already done so, you must visit Simone's website! (I didn't say should, I said must.)  She has an incredibly awesome rap music video book trailer that is just fantastic (can't you tell I love it)!

Ok, so now I want to hear your thoughts.  If you visited Simone's website, tell me what you thought about the video.  If you've read any of her other titles, I would love to hear your opinions on those as well.  If you refuse to obey my command and watch the video : ) or haven't read any of Simone's other books, I would like to hear your suggestions of other YA romance novels I should read.

Be sure to check back Monday for the next book on my Christmas wish list...

6 More Days Til Christmas Break!

From Barnes & Noble: When fifteen-year-old Clary Fray heads out to the Pandemonium Club in New York City, she hardly expects to witness a murder — much less a murder committed by three teenagers covered with strange tattoos and brandishing bizarre weapons. Then the body disappears into thin air. It's hard to call the police when the murderers are invisible to everyone else and when there is nothing — not even a smear of blood — to show that a boy has died. Or was he a boy?

This is Clary's first meeting with the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the earth of demons. It's also her first encounter with Jace, a Shadowhunter who looks a little like an angel and acts a lot like a jerk. Within twenty-four hours Clary is pulled into Jace's world with a vengeance, when her mother disappears and Clary herself is attacked by a demon. But why would demons be interested in ordinary mundanes like Clary and her mother? And how did Clary suddenly get the Sight? The Shadowhunters would like to know. . . .

I have heard wonderful things about City of Bones and City of Ashes.  With the third book, City of Glass, set to release in March, I decided now is the time to jump on "The Mortal Instruments" bandwagon.

Like yesterday's pick, this is not something I would typically read; however, I figure if so many other people rave about it, there must be something special about this series.  

If you've read any of the three books from The Mortal Instruments series, comment about what you liked/didn't like about the book(s).  I am always looking for a good series, so if you haven't read this series, but there another series (from any genre) you recommend, please comment on that as well.

Can't wait to see what you guys have to say...

7 More Days Til Christmas Break!

From Amazon:
When Bliss’s hippie parents leave the commune and dump her at the home of her aloof grandmother in a tony Atlanta neighborhood, it’s like being set down on an alien planet. The only guide naive Bliss has to her new environment is what she’s seen on The Andy Griffith Show. But Mayberry is poor preparation for Crestview Academy, an elite school where the tensions of the present and the dark secrets of the past threaten to simmer into violence. Openhearted Bliss desperately wants new friends, making her the perfect prey of a troubled girl whose obsession with a long-ago death puts Bliss, and anyone she’s kind to, in mortal danger.

To kick off my 7 Days Til Christmas Break Christmas wish list, I chose Bliss. Now some people may question where on Earth I've been, but I have never read any of Lauren Myracle's books. It's not that I don't want to (I have several on my bookshelf), it's just that I haven't had the time to get to them...until now.

Bliss has been near the top of my wish list for a while. I've read awesome reviews of the book, so I plan to make time to read this one. I mean, how can you pass up a book that mixes historical facts with the supernatural? I am not a fan of the historical fiction, fantasy or science fiction genres, but I love a suspenseful read, so I am going to be adventurous and tackle this one in the coming weeks.

A couple of questions for those of you reading this...Have you read Bliss or any of Lauren Myracle's other books? What are your thoughts on these? Can you think of any historical fiction, fantasy, or science fiction titles that are must reads? I'd really like to venture out and start reading from genres other than realistic fiction, romance, and comedy, but I am not sure where to begin.

I look forward to your comments! Check out tomorrow's post for the next title on my wish list...

Don't Ya Just Love Holidays???

Today I began counting down the days until Winter Break.  Only 8 more!!!!!  I may be more excited about it than my students.  :)

For the next 8 (school) days, I will post one book from my Christmas Wish List.  If you've read the book already, please leave a comment telling me your thoughts on the book.  Also, if you have any recommendations of additional books I should request, comment on that as well.

I figured not only is this a way for me to find out what everyone else is reading/has read, but it also will provide some gift suggestions for all those last minute shoppers!

Be sure to check out the first item on my wish list tomorrow!

*An early FYI:  Next month I will host my first contest!  I am still working out the details in my head, so be sure to watch for it...

Waiting on Wednesday (2)

Deadly Little Secret by Laurie Faria Stolarz

From Amazon: Some secrets shouldn't be kept...

Up until three months ago, everything in sixteen-year-old Camelia's life had been fairly ordinary: decent grades; an okay relationship with her parents; and a pretty cool part-time job at the art studio downtown. But when Ben, the mysterious new guy, starts junior year at her high school, Camelia's life becomes anything but ordinary.

Rumored to be somehow responsible for his ex-girlfriend's accidental death, Ben is immediately ostracized by everyone on campus. Except for Camelia. She's reluctant to believe the rumors, even when her friends try to convince her otherwise. She's inexplicably drawn to Ben...and to his touch. But soon, Camelia is receiving eerie phone calls and strange packages with threatening notes. Ben insists she is in danger, and that he can help--but can he be trusted? She knows he's hiding something... but he's not the only one with a secret.

I am not choosing this book because I am a Laurie Faria Stolarz fan. In fact, I have never read any of her books (they are always checked out at the library and I usually cannot find them at my bookstore). I have heard many great things about Stolarz's writing, and I hope to become a fan. Of all her books, I am most intrigued by the Deadly Little Secret blurb.

I usually agree with Steph's (from Reviewer X) opinion; however, I am hoping to agree with Harmony, as I have high hopes for this book. I have not read Twilight, so I am not worried about the similarities. Instead, I am excited to read--according to Harmony--one of the best books of the year! (Looks like Paper Towns may have some competition!)

Look for Deadly Little Secret in stores December 23!

Paper Towns

(From Barnes & Noble) Quentin Jacobsen has spent a lifetime loving the magnificently adventurous Margo Roth Spiegelman from afar. So when she cracks open a window and climbs back into his life - dressed like a ninja and summoning him for an ingenious campaign of revenge - he follows.

After their all-nighter ends and a new day breaks, Q arrives at school to discover that Margo, always an enigma, has now become a mystery. But Q soon learns that there are clues - and they're for him. Urged down a disconnected path, the closer he gets, the less Q sees of the girl he thought he knew.

Paper Towns could be the best book of 2008! Is it perfect? No (but what book is?), yet John Green has created a phenomenal story that mixes romance, adventure, mystery, and humor. All the things that make up a fascinating, page-turning read.

I absolutely loved the characters--with the exception of Margo. Q was a character to whom I could easily relate. He was the typical guy next door--smart, considerate, and strong. His friends, Radar and Ben, added humor to the story. Radar was the cool, closet nerd with a good heart and embarrassing parents. Ben was the hilarious, free-willed friend that every person longs to have. Margo, on the other hand, just had too many issues. I like complicated characters, but Margo seemed to have gone off the deep end. While I understand her motives, her actions and timing remain confusing to me.

The settings and mysterious plot flowed nicely together, as each place in Paper Towns is relevant in its own way. This said, John Green has this magical gift of giving every place and every action a deeper meaning than a reader might expect.

I was anticipating that Paper Towns would be an exceptional story since it was written by John Green, the literary genius. I was not disappointed, in fact, it exceeded my expectations! Fans of other John Green novels and Jay Asher's Thirteen Reasons Why will once again be spellbound by thought-provoking material and extraordinary characters.

Another Awesome Contest!

Carol from Bookluver-Carol's Reviews is hosting a contest in time for the holidays. The lucky winner will receive up to $30 worth of books of their choice!

Enter HERE before December 15. This is one contest you don't want to miss!

Waiting on Wednesday

Waiting on Wednesday is an idea that I borrowed from Steph over at Reviewer X, one of my favorite blog sites.

My first pick for Waiting on Wednesday is Cracked Up to Be by Courtney Summers.

From Courtney's website: Perfect Parker Fadley isn’t perfect anymore. She’s quit the cheerleading squad, dumped her perfect boyfriend, and she’s failing school. Her parents are on suicide watch and her counselors think she’s playing games. But what they don’t know, the real reason for this whole mess, isn’t something she can say out loud. A horrible thing has happened and it might be her fault…

First, let me say that I love the cover of this book. Of course, I am drawn to a book by its cover; however, I usually find something about it that I do not like. This cover is amazing and I find no fault with it.

After reading a couple of early reviews of this book and the excerpt from Courtney's page, I am eager to read it. I am intrigued about what the "horrible thing" is. For some reason, I immediately think it is something similar to what happened to Audrey in Good Girls by Laura Ruby or Melinda in Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson (I highly recommend both books).

If you are like me and cannot wait to get your hands on this book, you won't have to wait long. Cracked Up to Be is set to be released on December 23 (that's right, 2 days before Christmas, for all you last minute shoppers)!

The Season Giveaway

The ladies from My Favorite Author are hosting a contest!!! Up for grabs is an ARC of Sarah MacLean's The Season. This book does not come out until March 2009, and if you are like me, there is no way you can wait so long to read this book.

What are you waiting for? Follow the link and ENTER now!!!

Jennifer Banash Chat

Last night I had so much fun. Chelsea from The Page Flipper hosted an author chat with Jennifer Banash. I have never read the books from The Elite series; however, I've been dying to, which is why I joined in on the chat.

Jennifer Banash was awesome! She was so down to earth and funny. In the chat group,we discussed everything from Jennifer's books to sensitive guys vs. bade boys to 80s movies. After seeing how genuine Jennifer is and hearing the other bloggers rave about the books, I will be purchasing The Elite during my next trip to Borders!

* special thanks goes out to Chelsea, Lauren, Kristi, Paradox, Sarah Ockler (author of Twenty Boy Summer), Khy, Carol, Sarahbear and all the other bloggers who made me feel as though I have been a part of the online community forever!!!

One More Contest Before the Next Review!

Okay, I know I promised the next post would be a review, but I am a super slow reader these days. Part of this is because I have been so busy that I don't recall picking up a book in the last 4 or 5 days. This weekend, I plan to devote my time to reading, but while you are waiting, check out this contest...

Elaina from Reading Mania is hosting a contest! The contest ends November 15. Elaina is going to be reviewing some pretty awesome books and all you have to do to be entered in the contest is post a comment. It doesn't get much easier and the prizes are awesome. Visit the link and enter TODAY! (I did.)

Top 8 Contest

Ok, so I know it's past time for another review. I assure you that one is on the way. In the meantime, I wanted to notify everyone of another contest going on--cause let's face it--everyone loves a good contest.

The Book Vault is hosting a contest--and get this--giving away 5 copies of Top 8 by Katie Finn. The contest ends at midnight November 16, so hurry up for your chance at one of these books!