Reading Mania

Contest Winners!!

2008-11-17T15:40:00.003-05:00

Grand Prize Winner: Lauren of Lauren's Crammed Bookshelf

2nd place Winner: Just Blinded Book Reviews

I'll be emailing ya'll soon. Thanks to everyone who entered the contest!! Please keep reading my blog and look for another contest within the next week or two!!

Thanks

Update

2008-11-16T13:47:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I said that I was going to post two more reviews last night. I had to work longer than expected and I didn't get the chance. So i'm just going to save those reviews for next week, at which time I will be having another contest. (YAY) The contest still ends today at midnight so make sure that you comment on the post and the winner will be posted tomorrow, as soon as I get all of the entries counted.

Good Luck!!

Contest Info!!!

2008-11-15T11:19:00.003-05:00

I have two more reviews to post to make up for the days that I didn't post anything. I'm going to post them sometime tonight as soon as I get home. To give people a chance to comment on these posts to get extra entries I'm going to extend the contest to Sunday (November 16). So everyone has until Midnight eastern time on Sunday to comment on every post I've made over the last two weeks to get entries in the contest. The winner will be posted Monday morning or afternoon, depending on how long it takes me to count all of the entries.

I'm so excited this contest is going better than I expected I have over 100 entries! Thanks so much everyone for reading my blog and entering the contest. This is just the start of some awesome contest that I have planned for the rest of the year into next year. I also have some extra awesome books lined up to be reviewed and I'm working on getting some author interviews and guest blogs. Any author who wishes to voluteer please email me.

Keep the comments coming and please spread the word!!

Blue Bloods 3: Revelations by Melissa de la Cruz

2008-11-14T15:38:00.004-05:00

Have you ever wondered what secrets lurk behind the closed doors of New York City's wealthiest families? They're powerful, they're famous... they're undead.

Schuyler Van Alen's blood legacy has just been called into question--is the young vampire in fact a Blue Blood, or is it the sinister Silver Blood that runs through her veins? As controversy swirls, Schuyler is left stranded in the Force household, trapped under the same roof as her cunning nemesis, Mimi Force, and her forbidden crush, Jack Force.

When one of the Gates of Hell is breached by Silver Bloods in Rio de Janeiro, however, the Blue Bloods will need Schuyler on their side. The stakes are high; the battle is bloody; and through it all, Carnavale rages on. And in the end, one vampire's secret identity will be exposed in a revelation that shocks everyone.

I loved the first two Blue Bloods books and I'm really excited that I've finally read this one. Revelations was just as good as the first two if not better. In Revelations the author described the characters more and you got to know them a little better. The whole story was fast past and so many shocking things happened, I can't really say much about the book because I don't want to give anything away. The end was kind of a cliffhanger and I really wish that the book was longer because it left me wanting a lot more. I can't wait for the fourth book in the Blue Bloods series. If you haven't read the series I definantly recommend it, especially if your a fan of the vampire genre. If you have read the first two definantly make sure that you get Revelations because its amazing and it adds so much more to the story.

*** Make sure to comment to be entered in the contest.

Ranger's Apprentice

2008-11-14T15:16:00.001-05:00

Undone by Brooke Taylor

2008-11-12T08:10:00.004-05:00

When Kori Kitlzer, the “dark angel” of the 8th grade, tells Serena Moore that they are more alike than she thinks, Serena is instantly intrigued. As their friendship solidifies and their lives entwine, Serena tries to become more like the fearless, outspoken, and ambitious Kori. Soon Serena doesn’t know where she begins and Kori ends. But when a twist of fate yanks Kori away from Serena, she will need to find a way to complete her best friend’s life left undone.

Undone is a striking debut novel about friendship, family, and the secrets we keep from the people to whom we are closest.

I've heard so many great things about Undone from authors, other reviewers and friends so I was really excited to finally get a copy. I'm very happy to say that i was not disappointed. Undone was a completelyamazing. The story was completely down to earth and felt so real. At one point in the book I did cry and I think that when a book can make me emotional it is totally worth reading. I recommend this book to anyone who loves a good book about life and growing up you should definantly read this.

***Don't forget to comment to get an entry in the contest.

Oh. My. Gods. by Tera Lynn Childs

2008-11-10T11:30:00.000-05:00

A modern girl's comedic odyssey in a school filled with the descendants of Greek gods.

When Phoebe's mom returns from Greece with a new husband and moves them to an island in the Aegean, Phoebe's plans for her senior year and track season are ancient history. Now she must attend the uberexclusive academy, where admission depends on pedigree, namely, ancestry from Zeus, Hera, and other Greek gods. That's right, they're real, not myth, and their teen descendants are like the classical heroes-supersmart and superbeautiful with a few superpowers. And now they're on her track team! Armed only with her Nikes and the will to win, Phoebe races to find her place among the gods.

Oh. My. Gods. was a fun and hilarious story that I couldn't put down once I started. Phoebe's character was hilarious and I could relate to her cause my parents made me move from the place i've lived all my life, of course it wasn't half way around the world but still... Greek gods actually excisting would be awesome I love mythology and I loved the modern twist that Tera gave them.

The sequel Oh. My. Gods. II: Goddess Boot Camp comes out June 2009 and I can't wait to read it. I would definantly recommend this to all readers, it was a fun read that you won't regret.

** Don't forget to comment to get an extra entry in the contest!!

Evernight by Claudia Gray

2008-11-08T11:30:00.000-05:00

Bianca wants to escape. She’s been uprooted from her small hometown and enrolled at Evernight Academy, and eerie Gothic boarding school where the students are somehow too perfect: smart, sleek, and almost predatory. Bianca knows she doesn’t fit in.

Then she meets Lucas. He’s not the “Evernight type” either, and he likes it that way. Lucas ignores the rules, stands up to the snobs and warns Bianca to be careful--even when it comes to caring about him.

“ I couldn’t stand it if they took it out on you,” he tells Bianca, “and eventually they would.”

But the connection between Bianca and Lucas can’t be denied. Bianca will risk anything to be with Lucas, but dark secrets are fated to tear them apart…and to make Bianca question everything she’s ever believed.

Evernight is a great new twist on the always changing Vampire genre. I really enjoyed the book the story is unique and it really held my attention from the first page. Bianaca and Lucas's characters were amazing and I loved the twist that the author used that revealed more about their characters and made the story more interesting. I definantly reccommend Evernight to all fans of the Twilight series, you won't be disappointed. I'm really excited that there is going to be a sequel to Evernight, its called Stargazer and will be released in March 2009.

*** Don't forget to comment to enter the contest!!

The Devouring by Simon Holt

2008-11-07T11:30:00.001-05:00

The Vours: Evil, demonic beings that inhabit human bodies on Sorry Night, the darkest hours of the winter solstice.

This isn’t how the horror ended for us this is how it began.

When Reggie reads about the Vours in a mysterious old journal, she assumes they are just the musings of an anonymous lunatic. But when her little brother, Henry, begins to act strangely, it’s clear that these creatures exist beyond a mad woman’s imagination, and Reggie finds out what happens when fears come to life.

To save the people she loves, Reggie must learn to survive in a world of nightmares. Can she devour her own fears before they dev our her?

The Devouring is an engrossing tale of terror that will have you wondering: What if your worst fears became your living nightmares?

The Devouring was a extremely unique and very awesome story. I like horror stories and this one was no excemption. Its not too scary but there are some moments that make you think why I am I reading this book at night with barely any lights on in the house. At first Reggie's character made me kind of mad because she was kinda mean to her little brother when he was scared, as the story continued I started to like her more cause the author gave you a better understanding to her actions. The Devouring is one of those books that you can't put down once you start. I reallly look forward to reading more books by Simon Holt and I'm hoping that there's a sequel to The Devouring.

***Don't forget you have to comment to be entered in the contest.

Amigas and School Scandals Flipbook

2008-11-06T15:43:00.003-05:00

To rate or comment, view full size.   |   or make your own.

Commenting on this gets you an extra entry in the contest!

Paper Towns by John Green

2008-11-06T00:09:00.007-05:00

Quentin Jacobsenhas 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 the girl he thought he knew.

Paper Towns Paper Towns Paper Towns what to say about it other that its completely and totally awesome and John Green is a genius. I'm pretty sure that its one of my favorite books of the year. The characters were all down to earth and amazing and I was really able to connect with them. Q's character was one of the best he kind of reminded me of Miles from Looking for Alaska. Margo's character was a bit dramatic but thats what I enjoyed most about her, I enjoyed the mysterious role that she played in the book. My favorite part of the book is definantly the party with the beer can sword. I'm happy to say that while reading I spent most of my time laughing out loud, I love when books make me do that. I definantly recommend this to all teens and even adults, its a great book that everyone who reads it will definantly enjoy.

John Green is also the author of Looking for Alaska and An Abundance of Katherines as well as one of the co-authors of Let it Snow. To learn more about the author and his books check out:

http://www.sparksflyup.com/

http://www.myspace.com/greatperhaps

**Don't forget to comment to be entered in the contest!

CONTEST!!!!

2008-11-05T22:45:00.013-05:00

As i'm sure many people have noticed I haven't blogged much over the past few months. Its mostly been because of work and problems i've been having with my laptop. But now I'm bck! YAY!! To make up for being a bad reviewer the past few months I've decided to hold a contest.

The contest starts today. I'm going to post at least one review everyday until Saturday, November 15 which is when the contest will end. For every review that you comment on you get one entry. If you post on your blog, myspace or facebook you get 3 entries, just be sure to post a comment with the link.

You have until midnight on Saturday, November 15 to enter. Please leave a way that I can identify you, if you don't want to leave a email address. If you do leave a email address then I can let you know if you won as soon as I know. If I don't have your email then the winner will be posted on the blog sometime Sunday, November 16.
I'm kind of low on funds right now so the contest is only open to US residents.

Now for the most important part.

Prizes:

1st place: Your choice of any one of the books that I review during the contest period. Which ever book that you pick will be brand new and you will also recieve a $10 gift card to a bookstore and a really cute bookmark.

2nd place: A $10 gift card to a bookstore and a super cute bookmark.

Some of the books that I plan to review:

Paper Towns by John Green
Undone by Brooke Taylor
The Devouring by Simon Holt
Evernight by Claudia Gray
Bliss by Lauren Myracle
The Looking Glass Wars

and many more....

Get ready to go comment crazy! Good Luck!!

Camileon by Shykia Bell

2008-10-25T12:09:00.004-04:00

Camile Leon is a young woman searching for the hidden truth about her absentee father, a mysterious lost necklace, and the details of her early childhood—none of which she can remember. She persistently digs for the truth, but at each attempt, her mother dodges her questions and swiftly changes the subject. Before her mother is able to reveal the truth, something terrible happens and Camile fears she will lose her mother forever. She also fears that the details regarding her past will remain unkown.

Just as Camile loses hope on learning the particulars about her past, she makes a shocking discovery which reveals her entire life has been a carefully constructed web of deceit. Almost simultaneously, she experiences strange occurrences that shred the fabric of her reality. She blames these incidents on her extreme stress and hyperactive imagination. As the lies continue to unravel, startling facts emerge—bringing terrible heartache, confusion, and despair. Facing a powerful nemesis, Camile must find the strength within herself to discover the truth. Failing could bring deadly consequences.

Camileon is one of those books that once you start reading it you just can’t stop. I don’t usually read a lot of science fiction books but I really enjoyed this one and it makes me want read more of them. All of the characters are surrounded by clouds of mystery that you want to get through to discover the truth and more about each person. At first Camile’s character comes off as kinda whinny and insecure, however as I read more I began to understand her and really enjoy her character. I loved the way the author described everything in the story so that you could picture each scene in your head. The ending of the book was great the author explained everything while also leaving a few clues about what’s to be expected next in Camile’s story.
Camileon is the first in a new series by debut author Shyia Bell. I’m positive that its going to be a great series so be sure to pick up a copy soon.

For more information about the author and the book check out the links and the video below about the book.

www.camileon-thebook.com
http://www.myspace.com/camileon_thebook

Lock and Key by Sarah Dessen

2008-07-16T13:36:00.003-04:00

“Ruby, where is your mother?”

With that question from the social worker, Ruby knows the game is up.

She’s been living alone in the old yellow house, waiting out the months until she turns eighteen and can finally be on her own legally. It certainly wasn’t in her plan to be reunited with Cora, the sister who left ten years before, and brought to live with Cora and her wealthy entrepreneur husband.

Suddenly life is transformed: a luxurious house, private school, new clothes, and even the chance of a future Ruby couldn’t have dreamed of. So why is she wary, unable to be grateful, incapable of letting anyone close? Her old life has been left behind, but where does she fit in this new life? Only Nate, the genial, popular boy next door, seems to understand, perhaps because he’s hiding some secrets of his own.

This book was amazing Sarah Dessen has out done her self yet again. I’ve been a huge fan of Sarah Dessen’s since I read This Lullaby; I think that the reason I like her books so much is because of the strong female characters that she always creates. Ruby’s character is someone that everyone could relate to, she was strong and independent but she was also able to realize when she needed help and I really liked that about her. Jamie was really fun and he was one of my favorite characters in Lock & Key. The premise of this story is great and something that all Sarah Dessen fans will enjoy. Lock and Key is in my top 3 favorites of Sarah Dessen’s books and I look forward to any books that she may be working on.

Gone by Michael Grant

2008-07-16T13:14:00.004-04:00

In the blink of an eye. Everyone disappears. GONE.

Except for the young. Teens. Middle schoolers. Toddlers. But not one single adult. No teachers, no cops, no doctors, no parents. Just as suddenly, there are no phones, no internet, no television. No way to get help. And no way to figure out what's happened.

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

It's a terrifying new world. Sides are being chosen, a fight is shaping up. Townies against rich kids. Bullies against the weak. Powerful against powerless. And time is running out: On your birthday, you disappear just like everyone else...

Gone reminds me of a sci-fi suspense novel. Michael Grant jumps right into the story which I really liked and as the story went on he provided background information about the characters. I liked Sam’s strong modest character, he was a great leader even though he was only 14. I wasn’t a big fan of Quinn his best friend for reasons that I won‘t say because I don‘t want to ruin the book for anyone. The premise of this story was good and different from anything I’ve read in a while. I really liked this book and I can’t wait for the sequel, I’m sure its going to be just as good if not better. If you haven’t already read this book you should defiantly go get a copy soon.

How to Be Bad by E. Lockhart, Lauren Myracle & Sarah Mlynowski

2008-07-14T13:23:00.003-04:00

Three girls who couldn’t be more different have one goal on mind: to get the heck out of Dodge. Well, Niceville, Florida, actually. But it might as well be called Nowheresville. Vicks is the wild-child fry cook whose boyfriend left for college and isn’t returning any of her calls; Mel, the good girl in expensive jeans who just wants everyone to like her, and Jesse , the trailer-dwelling human mortality meter who’s discovered a life-altering secret.

Each has her own reason for climbing into Jesse’s mom’s beat-up station wagon and hitting the highway for a weekend trip, whether she knows it or not. Armed only with Vick’s ancient, battered copy of a guidebook called Fantastical Florida, a map Jesse picked up with her dwindling funds, and Mel’s mom’s credit card, they’re Miami-bound. Hearts will be broken, friendships will be tested, and a ridiculously hot stranger could change the course of everything. And if they don’t kill each other first, Vicks, Mel, and Jesse will not only have a road trip to remember, they’ll have friends for life.

How to be Bad was a wonderful story written by three amazing authors. The story was told from three different points of view and I really loved that. Mel, Vicks and Jesse were three unique fun characters and I didn’t want the story to end. I loved that they were all different but were still able to work through there differences and become great friends. The premise of this story was fun and I personally would love to go on a summer road trip with some of my friends.

I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Lauren M., Sarah M., and E. Lockhart’s other books. This book is defiantly a great summer beach read.

Savvy by Ingrid Law and A Free eBook!!

2008-07-14T12:51:00.004-04:00

Mibs Beaumont is about to become a teenager. As if that prospect weren’t scary enough, thirteen is when a Beaumont’s savvy stikes--and with one brother who causes hurricanes and another who creates electricity, her savvy promises to be outrageous…and positively thrilling.

But just before the big day, Poppa is in a terrible accident. Suddenly, Mib’s dreams of X-ray vission disappear: All she wants now is a savvy that will save Poppa. In fact, Mibs is so sure she’ll get that powerful savvy that she sneaks a ride to the hospital abroad a rickety bus--with her siblings and the preacher’s kids in tow. But when the bus starts heading in the wrong direction only one thing is certain: After this extraordinary adventure, not a soul on that bus will ever be the same.

Savvy was an fun and amazing adventure that I didn’t want to end. The premise of this story was unique and really well written. I loved how all of the characters came together and the way the Beaumont family stuck together even when faced with disaster. The family’s Savvy’s were all really unique and I would love to read more about them, hopefully Ingrid Law will consider writing a sequel.

Ingrid Law has written a wonderful story that everyone will enjoy. I can’t wait to read more books by her. I recommend this book to all ages.

For anyone who would like to read Savvy from Monday, July 14th- Sunday, July 20th Penguin is going to provide Savvy for free as an eBook! I really enjoyed this title and am pretty excited to spread the word about it and I hope that everyone will check it out and tell a friend. To read the free eBook just head over to this website: www.penguin.com/savvy

Tithe by Holly Black

2008-07-01T01:11:00.002-04:00

Sixteen-year-old Kaye is a modern nomad. Fierce and independent, she travels from city to city with her mother's rock band until an ominous attack forces the sixteen-year-old back to her childhood home. There, amid the industrial, blue-collar New Jersey backdrop, Kaye soon finds herself an unwilling pawn in an ancient power struggle between two rival faerie kingdoms -- a struggle that could very well mean her death.

Faeries, pixies, a black knight and a teenage girl stuck in the mix. What more can you ask for? This book was absolutely awesome. I really enjoyed this book, it was an amazing “Modern Faerie Tale”. The characters were all really great and I especially loved Roiben he was so mysterious and a really loyal friend. The story wasn’t exactly what I expected but I really liked that about it, I hate when books are too predictable. The story was great and I would recommend this book to anyone who loves a good fairie tale.

This is the first book that I’ve read by Holly Black and I look forward to reading more of her books. I hope to read “Ironside” the sequel to “Tithe” soon. For more information about Holly Black and her other books check out her website.

Frozen Fire by Tim Bowler

2008-07-01T01:07:00.003-04:00

It starts with a phone call. “I’m dying,” a voice tells Dusty. Who is he and how has he gotten her cell number? Dusty wants no part of this strange boy . . . until he begins saying things that only someone who knows her intimately could say—things that lead her to think he knows the whereabouts of her brother, who disappeared over a year ago. Suddenly drawn in, Dusty very much wants to save this boy. Trouble is, she cannot find him. Part human, part spirit, he won’t let himself be found. He is too dangerous, he says. There are mobs of people who agree and who want to see this boy dead . . . and who will hurt anyone who stands in their way.
A gripping, hair-raising mystery about a boy not of this world, and a girl determined to protect him.

How do I describe this book? A mystery, suspense, adventure, or sci-fi? If I had to pick I’d say all of them combined into one really, really good book. From the first sentence you are drawn in and you can’t put the book down until you’ve finished. Tim Bowlers character description was really great and I loved the way he portrayed Dusty she was a great character and I really enjoyed her strong spirit. The only thing that made me kind of sad about the book, is that the guy never really got a name. I like to have a name for all of the characters I read about, but I guess it makes the story good and adds more mystery to it. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys mystery and science fiction books.

Tim Bowler is an amazing author and I look forward to reading more books by him. For more information about Tim Bowler and his books check out his website.

-summary from amazon

I Wanna Be Your Joey Ramone Contest

2008-07-01T00:49:00.009-04:00

You'll be hearing this a lot, but it needs to be repeated anyway...Stephanie Kuehnert's debut I Wanna Be Your Joey Ramone comes out next week on July 8. We want you to pre-order the book now or go and get it when it's officially released. Shooting Stars Mag(Lauren) has been awesome enough to get fellow book reviewers to help give away an awesome prize!

What you must do:
Get the book and either copy the receipt or take a picture with the book. Send that to Shooting Stars Mag at: Lauren51990@aol.com and that's all you must do to enter!

Deadline:
This contest will end on July 30, with the winner being announced early August, so don't waste any time in getting this book!

Now...the prize:
A WHOLE BUNCH of gift cards, that will be for various bookstores and Itunes, since the book is very music-oriented.

These are the current Book Reviewers, including me, who will be giving away a $10 gift card to the winner. Click on each name to check out their blog!

And Another Book Read: Tasha (Barnes N Noble)

Shooting Stars Mag: Lauren

Reading Mania (Elaina Reads): Elaina

The Compulsive Reader

Bookloverreviews:Chelsie

The Story Siren: Kristi

B is for Books: Breanna

Teen Troves: Mollie and Ariel (Amazon)

From the Corner of Megan's Mind: Megan

Presenting Lenore

Writers Block Reviews: Holly

In Bed With Books: Livinia

Reader Rabbit

If you're counting, that's 13 book sites giving away a $10 card...that means the winner will get $130 bucks in gift cards just by buying ONE book and showing us that you did! Not bad, right?

MORE might be added as well in the next few days, so keep checking back to this post to see if the amount goes up...we're waiting to hear back from a couple more people!

Also, as you can see...some of the bloggers have already stated where their gift cards will go!

If you have any questions, please ask! This should be announced on all the other blogs as well. Start ordering!!!

Be sure to check out Shooting Stars Mag all this week for different post as part of Stephanie Kuehnert's Week at their blog.

Reviews Coming Soon

2008-06-26T01:37:00.000-04:00

The Fold by An Na

2008-06-26T01:16:00.004-04:00

How far would you go for beauty?

When Joyce’s aunt strikes it rich, she decides it’s time for Joyce to have a makeover. Joyce would love to be as beautiful as her older sister Helen, but is she willing to go under the knife to make it happen? And will changing the way her eyes look really change the way others see her? Especially JFK--John Ford Kang, her seriously dreamy crush?

The Fold was a good book. The premise of the book was really good and I enjoyed that the focus of the book was self-esteem issues and the fact that everyone wants to look a certain way. An Na’s characters are like many teenager girls and they go through the same thing that teens go through everyday. I liked that in the end Joyce realizes that its not all about looks and that everyone is unique and have certain things they don’t like about themselves. The only flaw that I found in the book is that I didn’t get to learn as much about the characters as I would have liked to. Other than that I really enjoyed the book and I look forward to reading more books by An Na.

Sir Fartsalot Hunts the Booger by Kevin Bogler

2008-06-26T01:03:00.002-04:00

Sir Fartsalot is on a quest to defeat a villain most foul!

Something stinks in the Kingdom of Armpit. King Reginald the Not Very Realistic has had it up to here with his naughty son Prince Harry. He loosens the tops on all the Royal Pepper Shakers, teases the moat monster, and wants nothing to do with rescuing fair damsels. Even Sir Bedwetter has had quite enough of the prince’s Royal Clowning Around!

Enter Sir Fartsalot--the bravest, boldest, Fartiest knight in all the land! He’s on a quest to solve the riddle of the Foul West Wind--a green, ghastly odor that turns up wherever danger’s lurking. Harry decides to play the biggest--and Boogeriest--prank of all time! He convinces Sir Fartsalot that the frightful Booger is on the prowl. Harry, Sir Fartsalot, and Sir Knotaclew set out on a hilarious quest to rid the world of the Dreaded Booger, Once and for All!

Sir Fartsalot Hunts the Booger is a fun title but its not something that would make me pick this book up. The book was decent but it wasn’t really a book I would like. It wasn’t a bad book but I think its something that a younger kid would like, maybe around the age 8-12. Prince Harry and Sir Fartsalot had some fun adventures that made the story unique and funny at time. Kevin Bogler is a good children’s author and I’ll be sure to pass on the book to my little brother and sisters.

Talent by Zoey Dean

2008-06-26T01:00:00.003-04:00

Mackenzie Little-Armstrong is the undisputed leader of Bel Air Middle School and the daughter of the most powerful agent in LA. Mac has it all, except for one thing: her own special talent. But when Mac spies wide-eyed Midwesterner Emily Mungler faking her way past the velvet rope at a super-exclusive premiere party, she vows to make this natural actress an overnight star. And of course, prove that she has her very own talent--discovering talent.

The Clique meets “Entourage” in this story of two twelve-year-old girls, their meteoric rise to the top, and the best friends who hang on for the wild ride.

Talent was a good story that I enjoyed. Zoey Dean’s main focus in the book seemed to be friendship and I really enjoyed that. Mac was really focused on winning social chair of her school and she started ignoring her friends, but I liked that at the end Mac began to realize that a certain position wasn’t as important as keeping her friends. Talent is a quick and fun summer read. The story line was good and I enjoyed all of the characters. This is the first book that I’ve read by Zoey Dean and I look forward to reading more of her books.

The Secret Rites of Social Butterflies by Lizabeth Zindel

2008-06-18T17:42:00.003-04:00

What if the most powerful girls in school knew your deepest darkest secrets?

When Maggie starts her senior year of high school at ritzy all-girls Berkley Prep, she hopes to make a few new friends and maybe--just maybe--reinvent herself as a popular girl with a hot boyfriend. But she never imagines that she’ll be tapped to become a member of the most powerful clique at Berkley, or that she will be invited to join their secret society: the Revelers.

The Revelers know how to have a good time, but they are deadly serious when it comes to their social --cause--collecting the secrets of today’s teenagers.

At first Maggie is seduced by her new friends’ wealth and passion for truth, but when the Revelers begin using what they know about their classmates for their own benefit, she stats to have second thoughts. Especially when Maggie’s own romantic relationship is put at risk.

I enjoyed this book more than I thought I would. One of the main focuses of the book is the need that some people feel to be popular and the fact that they give in to peer pressure to be accepted. I think that this is something all teens go through. Lizabeth Zindel did a wonderful job portraying something that many teens and young adults deal with. This story was really good and something that I was able to get into and enjoy. The only thing that I did like about the book was Maggie’s tendency to be a bit selfish and she didn’t think about how things might effect others. Other than that the overall story was really good.

Lizabeth Zindel is also the author of Girl of the Moment. For more information about her and her books check out her website and myspace.

Reviews Coming Soon!!

2008-06-14T12:48:00.002-04:00

Vampire Kisses by Ellen Schreiber

2008-06-13T14:06:00.001-04:00

In her small town, dubbed “Dullsville,” sixteen-year-old Raven--a vampire-crazed goth-girl-is an outcast. But not for long…

The intriguing and rumored-to-be haunted mansion on top of Benson Hill has stood vacant and boarded-up for years. That is, until its mysteriously strange new occupants move in. Who are these creepy people-especially the handsome, dark, and elusive Alexander Sterling? Or rather, what are they? Could the town prattle actually ring true? Are they vampires? Raven, who secretly covets a vampire kiss, both at the risk of her own mortality and Alexander’s loving trust, is dying to uncover the truth.

Ellen Schreiber’s spooky and stirring romance tells the story of two outsiders who fall in love in a town where conformity reigns, and ends with a shocking surprise.

I’m personally a really big fan of vampire books. So I couldn’t wait for a chance to read this book. I know that its been out for a while but I was finally able to get it and I loved it. Raven was really cool and unique. Vampire Kisses was a quick, fun and easy read. Raven and Alexander kind of reminded me of Bella and Edward from Twilight. Anyone who enjoyed the Twilight series are sure to enjoy this series. I can’t wait to read the rest of the books to see what happens next.

Peeled by Joan Bauer

2008-06-13T14:03:00.002-04:00

Something’s rotten in the heart of apple country!

Hildy Biddle is a high school reporter eager to stand up for the truth. The trouble is, the town’s biggest story stars…a ghost. Not a very easy interview! This ghost has everyone in a tizzy and the local paper is playing up people’s fears with shocking headlines. Hildy’s determines to stick to the facts and find out who is really threatening her town--but does the truth have a chance of being heard over all the buzz?

Joan Bauer has created a strong main character in Hildy Biddle. I really enjoyed her strength and determination throughout the novel. This was a great mystery novel as well as a great lesson in investigative journalism. I really enjoyed the storyline of this book. I’ve never read anything by Joan Bauer but I liked this book and I look forward to reading more by her.

Ghostgirl by Tonya Hurley

2008-06-11T13:45:00.003-04:00

If you thought high school was a matter of life or death, wait till you see just how true that is.

Now I lay me down to sleep,
I pray the Lord my soul to keep.
If I should die before I awake,
I pray the popular attend my wake.

Charlotte Usher feels practically invisible at school, and then one day she really is. Even worse: she’s dead. And all because of a gummy bear. But being dead doesn’t stop Charlotte from wanting to be popular; it just makes her more creative about achieving her goal. In this satirical yet heartfelt novel, Tonya Hurley explores the invisibility we all feel at times and the lengths we’ll go to be seen.

Tonya Hurley’s take on being a ghost was amazing. I really enjoyed this book. It was fun and witty in a way even though poor Charlotte was a ghost. I loved that she was able to find a happy place in the end. Scarlett was my favorite character in the story. The only problem that I had with the book was that it took me a while to really get into the book. Once I was able to get into the book I really enjoyed it. Tonya Hurley is a great and fun author and I look forward to reading more books by her.

Fancy White Trash by Marjetta Geerling

2008-06-09T14:45:00.003-04:00

Rule # 1: Find someone new.

Abby Savage created her One True Love Plan based on two things: the soap operas she loved to watch , and the family she can’t believe she’s a part of. Living in a house of five girls, one guy, a baby of three on the way, and one bathroom has taught Abby a lot about life, love, and how not to be fancy white trash like her mother and sisters.

When Jackson, Abby’s first love (and first heartbreak) reappears in her life, he threatens to turn her plan on its head. But the only thing Abby wants more than true love is to be different form the other Savage girls, even if that means walking away from the possible Love of Her Life.

Will Abby stick to her plan, no matter the cost? Or will she discover that some rules--even good ones--are made to be broken?

Abby Savage has one crazy but that’s what makes this book so unique and such a fun read. Once I started reading Abby’s story I couldn’t stop, its kind of like the addiction Abby has to daytime soaps. I really enjoyed this Fancy White Trash it’s a perfect beach read. I like the Marjetta Geerling gave all of the characters had there own story and problems that they had to deal with. This was a great book that any fan of love stories is sure to love. I look forward to reading more books by Marjetta Geerling, be sure to check out her website.

Storm: The Infinity Code by E. L. Young

2008-06-07T21:24:00.002-04:00

Storm is a gadget-packed, high-adrenaline adventure and also the name of a dynamic organization formed by three brainiac kids:

Will: loner, inventive genius, and creator of cutting-edge spy gear--STORM’s resident skeptic

Andrew: software whiz-kid and millionaire--STORM’s founder, financial backer, and fashion disaster

Gaia: brilliant and mysterious chemist--fluent in French, Italian, Mandarin, and blowing stuff up.

At First, Will scoffs at STORM’s grand plans to combat global strife. But when the group uncovers a plot to create a deadly, revolutionary weapon, Will is forced to swallow his doubts--and fast. The three race from London to St. Petersburg to find and dismantle the weapon, and confront the psychopathic scientist behind it all.

When I first picked up this book I wasn’t sure how much I would like it but once I started I was hooked. The story is full of action, adventure and suspense. The characters were all unique and fun to read about. Young did a great job describing each of Will’s gadgets, they were really cool and I’d love to have some of them.

Storm: The Infinity Code is the first in the series. I look forward to reading the rest of the series. Anyone who enjoyed the Artemis Fowl books are sure to enjoy this new and fun series.

Violet in Private Countdown!

2008-06-07T13:46:00.001-04:00

Audrey, Wait! by Robin Benway

2008-06-03T15:19:00.004-04:00

Audrey Cuttler is a normal Southern California girl. She has an obese cat, an awesome best friend, and two hippie-ish parents who love her. She’s funny, charming, and she likes her music loud. Then she dumps Evan--her self-involved musician boyfriend--and he writes Audrey, Wait!, a breakup song about her that he records with his band, The Do Gooders. The song rockets up the Billboard charts and slowly but surely makes Audrey famous!

All Audrey wants is to have fun, go to concerts, hang out with her friends, and maybe score a date with James, her cute co-worker at the Scooper Dooper. But the paparazzi won’t leave her alone, and the tabloids are trying to make her into some kind of rock goddess! She can’t go to her favorite record store without being mobbed by fans and the Internet is documenting her every move.

Will Audrey ever again be able to go to a concert or kiss a guy in public without people taking her picture and screaming out “AUDREY, WAIT!”? Get ready to find out because it’s time for Audrey to tell her side of the story.

WOW!! I loved Audrey, Wait! Its my favorite book of the year so far. The story and characters were amazing. Audrey is a hilarious and fun character. The characters love of music is infectious and after reading the book all you want to do is listen to music and sing. Robin Benway is an amazing author and I look forward to more books from her in the future.

For more info about the author you can go to her website or myspace.

Check This Out!!

2008-05-01T22:30:00.003-04:00

May is Byron Carmichael month. Byron Carmichael will be featured on the review website called flamingnet.com. Staring Monday, May 5, 2008 at the Byron Carmichael homepage there will be a contest with some really great prizes.

Great Week!!!

2008-04-30T13:25:00.003-04:00

Hey everyone who reads my blog!!! I'm horrible at doing things on time and I procrastinator alot. However, I'm going to start posting more. I promise!!! No more of this posting a few times a month. I'm going to start posting a few times a week at least.

In other news. I'm having an awesome book reading week!! I've read 4 super awesome books that I LOVE, just this week and its only Wednesday!!

Looking for Alaska by John Green
Glass Houses by Rachel Caine
Confessions of a Triple Shot Betty by Jody Gehrman
Audrey, Wait! by Robin Benway

I already posted the review for Confessions. Tonight i'm going to post the review for the other 3 books as soon as I get the chance. I say tonight but it might be tomorrow morning. But it will be soon. I need a person to make me stop procrastinating so much lol.

Happy Reading!!!

Confessions of a Triple Shot Betty by Jody Gehrman

2008-04-30T13:01:00.003-04:00

Geena wants to hang out with her best girl pals this summer, but when her cousin Hero and her best friend Amber meet, it’s hate at first sight. The worst part is that all three have to work together at the Triple Shot Betty coffee shack. Soon Geena’s dreams of a girl-bonding summer are driven away completely when a few cute (okay, drop-dead gorgeous) guys come along to woo the Bettys. But all is not what it seems, and in a story of mistaken identities and romantic high jinks, Geena and her friends discover that when Bettys unite, they can take on the most powerful force in their world: a hot guy.

Confessions of a Triple Shot Betty is a fun, witty and absolutely fantabulous (marvelously excellent) book. Genna’s character was amazing I loved the way that she was herself throughout the book, not really caring what other people thought of her. Genna and Ben witty comments to each other throughout the book were hilarious and really cute. My favorite part of the book would be when the girls bonded together to bring down their common enemy. Jody Gehrman did an amazing job with this book and she captured the voice of teenager girls perfectly.

Confessions of a Triple Shot Betty is a great book and if you haven’t already got a copy you should go out and get one soon. Not only is the inside of the book awesome but the cover is scratch and sniff which I find very very awesome! I look forward to more awesome YA novels by Jody Gehrman. I plan on reading some of her other published books soon.

* Fantabulous= new favorite, funny word and the only thing I could think of to describe the awesomeness of this book . =D

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

2008-04-30T12:45:00.003-04:00

Is Clary Ford seeing things?

Clary has just witnessed a murder in a night club but no one else seems to see the murderers but her. If that isn’t enough within 24 hours , Clary’s mother goes missing and there are demons in her house.

Clary soon finds herself in a world were werewolves, vampires, demons, shape shifters , fairies, pixies an other mythical creatures exist. With the help of Shadowhunters: a secret tribe of warriors dedicated to ridding the earth of demons; Clary begins to search for her mother. She soon finds that she isn’t who she thought she was. There are many twist and turns in the plot of this story. The end leaves you waiting to read the second installment to the Mortal Instruments Series.

I’ve heard so many amazing things about City of Bones, so I was really excited to finally get the chance to read it. I’m happy to say that I wasn’t disappointed. I really enjoyed City of Bones. The story was unique, enjoyable and with some awesome “edge of your seat scenes.” The characters were amazing, my favorites were Clary and Jace, they both had great personalities and I couldn’t help but fall in love with them. The other characters were really cool too, Simon was really great and an awesome best friend. Cassandra Clare is an amazing author. I can’t wait to read City of Ashes the sequel to City of Bones.

Girl at Sea by Maureen Johnson

2008-04-30T12:27:00.003-04:00

Clio plans to spend the summer working at an art supply store and smooching gorgeous Ollie. However her plans are completely changed when her mom takes a job in the middle of no where in Kansas. Clio has no choice but to spend the summer with her dad. Clio finds herself in the Middle of the Mediterranean Sea, on a yacht with a crew on a mysterious mission.

The Crew includes: her dad; his scary looking girlfriend Julia an archeologist; Aidan , Julia’s cute but arrogant assistant; Martin her dads best friend and Elsa, Julia’s daughter. The Mission is to find an underwater treasure that could be the missing link to a long-lost civilization.

Girl at Sea is a really amazing story. I enjoyed the way that Maureen Johnson made it a romance as well as an adventure. Clio’s character is fun, witty, and stubborn at times, but really awesome. The story was unique and really enjoyable. I love the way everything comes together nicely at the end. I didn't want to book to end, I really wanted to know what happens next in

I can’t wait to read more books my Maureen Johnson. Her new book Suite Scarlett has just been released and I would love to read it soon. =D

April Contest

2008-04-23T02:25:00.005-04:00

And Another Book Read is having an awesome Scavenger Hunt Contest at her blog. Everyone should check it out for a chance to win 3 books. The contest ends May 1st so hurry and enter!!! =D

The Page Flipper is giving awayfive books in her April Prize Pack, check out her blog to learn how to enter!!! =D

Every Friday until the Publication of her new book Death By Bikini, Linda Gerber is going to be giving away and ARC of her book!! =D

The Compulsive Reader has five copies of How to be Popular by Meg Cabot to give away, be sure to enter the contest by midnight on 4/25/08 for a chance to win!! =D

The Book Muncher has an awesome list of contest to check out for all of the ones that I missed!! =D

Leaving Paradise by Simone Elkeles

2008-04-23T00:48:00.005-04:00

Caleb Becker and Maggie Armstrong’s lives both changed the night that Caleb decided to drive drunk from a party and he hit Maggie.

After a year of being in the hospital and going through physical therapy Maggie still walks with a limp. As she prepares to go back to school for her senior year she has no social life and her scholarship to study abroad has been cancelled. Maggie is hoping she can find a way to escape from the pity stares and start a new life.

Caleb has spent the last year in Juvenile jail and is now free. Unfortunately being home isn’t all that Caleb expected it to be. His parents are distant and barely speak to him and his sister has become this girl who wears all black and talks to no one.

Caleb and Maggie are both outsiders in the small town of Paradise, so they come to rely on each other for comfort and strength.

Simone Elkeles is an excellent writer and I loved this story. Leaving Paradise is told from Caleb and Maggie’s point of view which makes this book even better. I like being able to know what both of them are thinking, in my opinion it makes the book even better and it makes the characters seem so real and honest. Throughout the book there are unexpected twists in the plot. The book was very awesome and I couldn’t put it down.

Simone is also the author of How to Ruin a Summer Vacation and How To Ruin My Teenage Life. I can’t wait to read these two books.

Footfree and Fancyloose by Elizabeth Craft and Sarah Fain

2008-04-23T00:28:00.005-04:00

The four best friends are back again in the sequel to Bass Ackwards and Belly Up. Becca, Kate, Harper and Sophie are all close to achieving the dream that they set out to reach in their Year a Dreams. They have just a few more months to accomplish there goals.

Becca is in college on the skiing team and in a relationship trying to find love. Sophie is in Los Angeles trying to live the glamorous life as an actress just like she always wanted. Harper is hard at work on her novel and her applications to college. Kate is in Ethiopia helping to build wells but at the same time trying to find who she truly is and what she wants to do with her life. These four friends have rough times but as long as they have each other they find that they can do whatever they set there minds to.

Elizabeth Craft and Sarah Fain managed to take my breath away again in their sequel to Bass Ackwards and Belly Up. I felt as if I was part of the story, one of the four best friends. Each character was unique and had their own voice, and many of their problems are some that teens encounter in everyday life. I’m happy to say that this story has inspired me to follow my dreams just as the characters of this aww-inspiring novel did. This story is one that I will be reading again in the near future.

I really enjoyed Footfree and Fancyloose and I look forward to future novels by Elizabeth Craft and Sarah Fain. Anyone who enjoyed The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants series will truly love this book.

My Life As A Rhombus by Varian Johnson

2008-03-30T11:06:00.005-04:00

Rhonda Lee a senior in high school, has no times for boyfriends or a social life as she spends most of her time doing homework and tutoring other students. Rhonda is determined to get a scholarship to the school of her dreams and get away from her hometown.

Rhonda finds herself being forced to tutor Sarah Gamble, a popular girl from her school , the kind of girl that she has stay away from for the past few years. Rhonda is struggling to put her past behind her but she soon realizes that Sarah is suffering with the symptoms of pregnancy just as she did a few years before. Sarah and Rhonda soon share their secrets with one another and form a friendship.

This isn’t just a story about unplanned pregnancy. This is a story about family, friendship, forgiveness and love. Rhonda Lee is an amazing character, who you will fall in love with as you read her story. Once I started reading this book I couldn’t put it down. Rhondas character was funny and witty, there are many parts when I literally laughed out loud. There were also a few parts that brought tears to my eyes. Varian Johnson did a fantastic job with this book and I plan on passing it on to my friends and family.

My Life as a Rhombus is a young adult book, but I’m sure many adults would love it too. Varian Johnson is also the author of Red Polka Dot in a World Full of Plaid.

March Contest

2008-03-19T15:00:00.008-04:00

The Page Flipper is has a monthly contest. This month she is giving away 6 books. The contest ends on March 31st at midnight so make sure you drop by and enter. The books she is giving away are: The Unspoken by Thomas Fahy, Fake Boyfriend by Kate Brian, Three Little Words by Ashley Rhodes-Courter, Tweak by Nic Sheff, Here, There Be Dragons by James A. Owen and it's sequel, In Search for the Red Dragon.

http://thepageflipper.blogspot.com/2008/02/march-prize-pack-giveaway.html

The Book Muncher! is having her first ever contest. YAY. One lucky winner will get an autographed copy of Screwball by Keri Mikulski. The contest ends March 26th at 9pm PST, so hurry and enter.

http://thebookmuncher.blogspot.com/2008/03/contest-win-screwball.html

The Story Siren is giving away City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare, the second book in The Mortal Instuments series, following City of Bones! Drop by her blog to enter, the contest ends March 26th at Midnight.

http://thestorysiren.blogspot.com/2008/03/win-copy-of-city-of-ashes.html

Good Luck to everyone who enters these awesome contest!!! =D

MEME

2008-03-19T00:47:00.005-04:00

I've been tagged for a meme by The Story Siren and Hope's Bookshelf . I have to share 6 unimportant things about myself. This should be fun so here goes.

1. I love love girly (chick flicks) movies. I know some of them are corny, but I just love them. Girl meets Hot Guy, they like each other, bunch of crazy drama, and they live together happily ever after. lol I just love it.

2. I have recently become addicted to anime. D Gray Man is so awesome and I can't wait for the next episode lol.

3. I like all things colorful and bright. At the moment my nails are a bright greenish color and I just love it lol.

4. I prefer to sleep during the day, instead of at night. I dont know why, it just seems way better. Of course its hard to do that alot.

5. I very rarely ever put my cell phone down, im always texting somebody. I can do all kinds of different things and still keep texting.

6. And last but not least. I sleep next to my laptop, when im home i carry it wherever I go.

the rules:

1. you link back to the person who tagged you.
2. post these rules on your blog.
3. share six unimportant things about yourself.
4. tag six random people at the end of your entry.
5. let the tagged people know by leaving a comment on their blogs.

Everyone I talk to with a blog has already been tagged, so the people I tag are going to be from myspace. So Drew, Alyssa, Shaela, Esteban, Jill and Candace tag ur it. lol have fun!

The Temptress Four by Gaby Triana

2008-03-06T02:38:00.004-05:00

Back of the ARC:

“ Four best friends, one graduation cruise, a week of partying. It’s supposed to be the best eight days of their lives. But when a fortune-teller predicts trouble the night before their trip, Fiona, Killian, Alma, and Yoli are left on edge, wondering what it could all mean.

Gaby Triana gets right to the heart of the that thrilling nerve-wracking, exhilarating, terrifying, amazing time that comes right after graduation, when the big question is: Where do we go from here?”

I really enjoyed this book. Gaby Triana did a great job with all of the characters. I believe that every teenage girl can relate with these four girls. I think my favorite character of the four would be Fiona, I felt that I could relate to what she was going through. I really enjoyed the story and my favorite part of it would probably be the end, but it did leave me wanting to know what happens next to these four girls. This book reminds me of The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants series. Anyone who enjoyed this series should defiantly consider reading The Temptress Four.

Gaby Triana is the author of two other young adult novels: Backstage Pass and Cubanita. I hope to have the chance to read these two books soon. The Temptress Four is scheduled to be released April 2008, make sure you go get yourself a copy.

The Story Siren's Awesome Contest

2008-02-27T02:56:00.006-05:00

The Story Siren is having a huge contest this week in celebration of the soon to be released book "Fire Study" by Maria V. Snyder. She will be giving Poison Study, Magic Study and Fire Study to one luck winner. The deadline for entries is March 1st at midnight. So what are you waiting for get over there and enter. GOOD LUCK !!!

http://http//thestorysiren.blogspot.com/2008/02/study-series-giveaway.html

Lamplighter by D.M. Cornish

2008-02-27T02:29:00.004-05:00

“Lamplighter” is the second book in the Monster Blood Tattoo series. It begins were the first book “Foundling” left off, with Rossamund beginning his training as an apprentice Lamplighter. “Foundling” tells of Rossamund’s life at Madam Opera’s Estimable Marine Society for Foundling Boys and Girls, until a strange man comes and recruits him into the service of the Emperor. The rest of the story tells of Rossamunds adventures journey to Winstermill to become an apprentice lamplighter.

Lamplighter is an adventure filled novel full of mystery and suspense with many unexpected twist and turns. Shortly after the start of the story we are launched into action as the apprentice lamplighters help to fight off a monster to save a group of calendars. After this fight Rossamund meets Threnody who is to become the first girl lamplighter apprentice and one of Rossamunds friends. Mysterious things to begin to happen in Winstermill and soon Rossamund goes off to his appointed place to be an official lamplighter.

Through out the story Cornish introduces new characters into Rossamunds life as well as keeping old characters/friends around. At some points as I was reading it was slightly hard to keep up with all of the characters and the different terminology that Cornish introduces in this book. However, Cornish did do a good job at describing everything in the story. This book is quiet large in size but I think that it is worth the read.

I really enjoyed this story as I read the book I felt as if I was part of this new world that Cornish has created. Rossamund is a such a likable character that you can’t help but be drawn to him and all that he says and believes. The illustration in this novel was amazing, I'm really glad that Cornish provided a picture for each character it helped me to identify with the character. “Lamplighter” reminded me of some very great books such as “The Lord of the Rings” and “The Chronicles of Narnia,” anyone who enjoyed these novels are sure to enjoy the “Monster Blood Tattoo” series.

Lamplighter is to be released in April of 2008. I suggest that anyone who hasn’t already read “Foundling” go pick it up and prepare for the release of “Lamplighter”

Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist by Rachel Cohn & David Levithan

2008-02-27T02:11:00.005-05:00

The inside of the jacket cover describes this book perfectly :

“Nick’s just seen the girl who dumped him walk in.. with a new guy. What else can he do but ask the strange girl next to him to be his new girlfriend for the next five minutes?
Norah would do anything to avoid conversation with the non not-friend girl who dumped Nick… and to get over the Evil Ex whom Norah never really totally dumped. What else can she do but answer Nick’s question by making out with him?
With one electric, unexpected kiss, the five-minute couple of Nick and Norah set off on an uncharted adventure called the “first date” that wwill turn into an infinite night of falling in and out ( and in and out and maybe in and maybe out) of love. Theirs is a first date of music, laughter, heartache, confusion, passion, taxi driver wisdom, and a jacket named Salvatore. And of course a killer soundtrack.

As Nick and Norah wander through the middle-of-the-night mystic maze of Manhattan, they share the kind of night you want to never end, where every minute counts and every moment flicks between love and disaster.”

I really enjoyed this book, I defiantly didn’t want it to end, but of course ‘all good things must come to an end.’ David Levithan and Rachel Cohn are great together. I enjoyed the fact that the book was written from two different perspectives. This book reminded me of one of my favorite books “Scrambled Eggs at Midnight” by Brad Barkley &Heather Hepler. This book has been added to my list of favorite books and it will probably become a book that I read over and over.

The Interns: Fashionistas by Chloe Walsh

2008-02-27T01:42:00.003-05:00

“The Interns: Fashionistas” is the story of four lucky girls who have been given the chance to interns at Couture, a leading fashion magazine. The girls will spend the summer competing for the attention of the editor of the magazine, in hopes of gaining a job in the future. The interns are:

Callie Ryan: Designer from a small town who wants to fit in with this world of high fashion. Will she be herself or will she lose her self as she tries to be someone she’s not?

Nadine Vanburen: Photographer/Reporter with her own unique style and a love of partying. Will trying to be the life of the party be too much for her to handle?

Ava Barton: Innocent and happy to have this wonderful chance as an intern, but with very little fashion sense. Will she be able to make it to the top?

Aynsley Rothwell: Sexy, Fashion Socialite she grew up surrounded by this wonderful life of high fashion, but will that be enough for her to succeed in this internship?

Chloe Walsh did a wonderful job of portraying each character, but she also left a certain mystery to leave you wondering what each character is capable of doing next. I really enjoyes this book and wach character. This book isn’t just about fashion. “Fashionistas” tells the story of four girls try to get to the top, but is what they do worth it? The end of this book leaves an unsolved mystery which makes me look forward to what Walsh will bring to the table in the next book in this series, “Truth or Fashion.

“The Interns: Fashionisats” and “Truth or Fashion” will both be available in Summer 2008. I hope that you will go out and buy it I know I will.

The Opposite of Invisible by Liz Gallagher

2008-02-27T01:28:00.006-05:00

“The Opposite of Invisible” is a short but sweet story about friendship and love. Alice and Jewel have known each other since elementary school. They are best friends who are nearly inseparable and both share a love of art. Alice talks to Jewel about everything., except recently when she has a secret crush on a popular guy at school. Alice begins to realize that she is tired of being unknown; she doesn’t want to be invisible any longer. As she tries to branch out and become a new person, she begins to learn the difference between love and friendship.

This is such a great book that I read it all in one sitting; I just couldn’t put it down. I love Alice’s story, I know that there are many people who go through the same thing that she did. Trying to find your place in life, school, and relationships can be hard. I’m happy to say that I have a friend like Jewel, he is just a friend but I feel that I can relate to Alice. Liz Gallagher did a wonderful job with this book.

“The Opposite of Invisible” was written for young adults but I’m sure that all readers young and older will enjoy this beautiful novel. Liz Galagher’s debut novel is sure to be a great success and I personally can’t wait for more books from her.

CONTEST!!!

2008-02-06T17:45:00.000-05:00

The Page Flipper is giving away 6 books in a YA prize pack over at my blog! She'll be doing this every month, so make sure to check back at the beginning of March, too. Go enter at
http://thepageflipper.blogspot.com/

The Book Burger is also having a Huge contest, they are giving away 5 awesome books. Hurry this contest Ends at midnight on February 12!! Go enter at:
http://bookburger.typepad.com/bookburger/2008/01/the-biggest-giv.html

Good luck everyone who enters!! =D

YA Literature Challenge

2008-01-26T17:39:00.000-05:00

This is my first reading challenge and i'm really excited. It is being hosted by The Shady Glade. I'm going to go the extra mile and do the Extra Challenge, I think i'll be able to get all but one of the books in the extra challenge. I'm working on a list right now and as soon as I have one i'll post it here.

Rules:
1. The Challenge runs from whenever you sign up until April 20th, 2007.
2. Feel free to combine with other challenges.
3. You must read at least one book that covers each of these 9 categories:
Contemporary/Realistic Fiction
Poetry, Drama, or Humor (any of these will work)
Sports, Mystery, Supernatural/Paranormal (any of these will work)
Fantasy or Science Fiction
Historical Fiction
Nonfiction
Classic “juvenile” fiction (first published pre-1920)
Graphic Novel
Audiobook
4. There can be overlap between categories. For example, if you read a graphic novel that’s fantasy, then it counts for both. Or maybe your audio book is historical fiction. You get the idea. So you may have 9 books on your list, you may not.
5. Only 1 book per author is allowed. This means once you’ve read something by that author, you can’t read another book by the same author.

Extra Challenge:
1. Instead of reading enough books to just cover the above categories, read a total of 25 books.
2. Only read books that you have NOT read for at least the past 5 years (so if you read it 6 years ago, you’re okay).
3. Read as many of these required novels as you can (I have to read them all) and count them towards the 25:
The Only Alien on the Planet by Kristen D. Randle
Shabanu: Daughter of the Wind by Suzanne Fisher Staples
Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse
A Long Way from Chicago by Richard Peck
Deathwatch by Robb White
Ender’s Game by Orson Scott Card
Jason’s Gold by Will Hobbs
Life Lists for Teens by Pamala Espeland
Shipwrecked at the Bottom of the World by Jennifer Armstrong

New

2008-01-19T03:05:00.000-05:00

Hey there everyone, this year I decided that I wanted to start a blog so here goes my first post (yay). My blog will mostly consist of me talking about books I want to read, will read or have already read. I'll proly be posting alot of book reviews and such. I think the first thing I will do is join a book challenge, hopefully it isnt too late. If it isn't i'll be back tomorrow with my book list for the challenge(s).