Sorta Like a Rock Star by Matthew Quick

Sorta Like A Rock Star by Matthew Quick

Published by Little Brown Books for Young Readers May 2010

Source: Borrowed from the Library

Summary:

Amber Appleton lives in a bus. Ever since her mom's boyfriend kicked them out, Amber, her mom, and her totally loyal dog, Bobby Big Boy (aka Thrice B) have been camped out in the back of Hello Yellow (the school bus her mom drives). Still, Amber, the self-proclaimed princess of hope and girl of unyielding optimism, refuses to sweat the bad stuff. But when a fatal tragedy threatens Amber's optimism--and her way of life, can Amber continue to be the rock star of hope?

My Thoughts:

When someone in the book industry whose tastes and talents you admire tells you to read a book as its in their TOP TEN must reads of all time…you read it!! (Vikki) I'm so glad that I did. Aside from its multiple awards, this is one of those books that changes you. One that you think about long after finishing. One that is written for young adults, but resonates in the hearts of the adult reader as well. True? True.

I read and enjoyed Matthew Quick’s The Silver Linings Playbook, but for me, this book is on a whole other level. Amber is a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. She sees the good in each moment and every opportunity, despite her circumstances. She is real. She is raw and true to herself about her life but chooses to believe that there is better in store for her and for everyone else. I loved the quirkiness of her character,  and the way she interacted with the world around her .  It took me a few pages to get used to her method of speaking, her slang and short forms but once I did the story flew by and so did the time as I finished it in a sitting only to go back and read it again. 

Tissue will be needed while reading but it’s worth it. This book is all sorts of incredible.

Everyone needs to own a copy so I’m giving a copy away.

Rules:

Must be 13+ to enter

Live in a place the Book Depository ships

Not have read Sort a Like a Rock Star before (honour system)

Leave me a comment sharing the title of a book that has moved you like this one moved me.

Giveaway closes March 13th. Winner will have 48hrs to reply.

Book Review: Prodigy by Marie Lu

Prodigy by Marie Lu

Published by Putnam January 2013

384 pages

Source: ARC provided by the publisher for review

Summary:

June and Day arrive in Vegas just as the unthinkable happens: the Elector Primo dies, and his son Anden takes his place. With the Republic edging closer to chaos, the two join a group of Patriot rebels eager to help Day rescue his brother and offer passage to the Colonies. They have only one request—June and Day must assassinate the new Elector. 

It’s their chance to change the nation, to give voice to a people silenced for too long.
But as June realizes this Elector is nothing like his father, she’s haunted by the choice ahead. What if Anden is a new beginning? What if revolution must be more than loss and vengeance, anger and blood—what if the Patriots are wrong?

My Thoughts:

  I am a major fan of the Dystopian genre, something about it speaks to me as a reader. Even so, I was late to get on the “Legend” train so to speak as I only picked up Marie Lu’s first novel of the series (Legend) in early January of this year.  I fell in love with the characters immediately, and with the author’s writing style. I enjoyed reading the dual perspectives of June and Day though the alternating inks in the book became a little distracting.  I had high hopes for Prodigy, and was thrilled when asked to participate in a blog tour for it.

   Prodigy picks up exactly where Legend ended and we find Day and June searching for the Patriots in Vegas and hoping to be reunited with Tess. Tess is one of my favourite characters in the books. Resilient, forgiving and strong, Day needs her and has leaned on her much more than he realizes. Though the relationship between Day and June is sudden and complex it is written so well that it is  believable.  They trust one another when from an observers point of view they should be doing anything but trusting each other. Though not as action packed as the first novel, I was still completely engaged. I found the descriptions of the world they live in whether that be the Republic or the Colonies compelling, and we also discover in Prodigy what the catalyst was for the division in America.

One of the most fascinating aspects of this series is that you never really know who the “bad guy” is. The person who you believe to be the enemy isn’t always, and much depends on perspective. I think this theme through out the books is such a great comment on our reality.  I can’t even talk about that ending. (tears)

A gripping follow-up to Legend and I can  not wait for more. Highly recommended for fans of Delirium by Lauren Oliver, and Divergent by Veronica Roth.

Book Review: Paper Valentine by Brenna Yovanoff–Blog Tour

Paper Valentine by Brenna Yovanoff

Published by Razorbill January 8th 2013

Hardcover- 306 Pages

Source: ARC provided by publisher for review

Summary:

         The city of Ludlow is gripped by the hottest July on record. The asphalt is melting, the birds are dying, petty crime is on the rise, and someone in Hannah Wagnor’s peaceful suburban community is killing girls.
For Hannah, the summer is a complicated one. Her best friend Lillian died six months ago, and Hannah just wants her life to go back to normal. But how can things be normal when Lillian’s ghost is haunting her bedroom, pushing her to investigate the mysterious string of murders? Hannah’s just trying to understand why her friend self-destructed, and where she fits now that Lillian isn’t there to save her a place among the social elite. And she must stop thinking about Finny Boone, the big, enigmatic delinquent whose main hobbies seem to include petty larceny and surprising acts of kindness.
With the entire city in a panic, Hannah soon finds herself drawn into a world of ghost girls and horrifying secrets. She realizes that only by confronting the Valentine Killer will she be able move on with her life—and it’s up to her to put together the pieces before he strikes again.

My Thoughts:


    I was happy to be asked to be a participant in the blog tour for Paper Valentine. I haven’t had a chance to read the author’s previous books and knowing how positive the reviews have been, I was excited to read it. There is a lot happening in 306 pages. Though not quite what I expected, I enjoyed many aspects of the book, especially Yovanoff’s writing style.  The story revolves around Hannah and the murders of girls in a her town, but that seems like a secondary storyline compared to Hannah’s grief at the loss of her best friend to Anorexia, six months earlier. Actually, my favourite parts were the moments between Hannah and Lillian. I thought the description of Lillian’s obsession with her weight, was realistic and well done. Hannah is slowly discovering who she is, and who she wants to be without Lillian. It’s Lillian, that compels Hannah to begin her own investigation into the deaths of the girls. The ‘creepy’ factor was definitely present and I could not read the book at night or if I was in the house by myself. 
*spoilers ahead*
I think because there was so much happening in the book, anorexia, a love interest, murders, grief, ghosts; there were many questions that went unanswered. I wanted to know why Lillian appeared to Hannah? What made the “Valentine Killer” kill the girls? The ending wasn't satisfying but perhaps that was the point? I liked Paper Valentine and I know that other bloggers on the tour have absolutely loved it, but I just expected/wanted more.

Favourite Quotes:
“Sometimes I think that’s the whole reason she’s still here-she’s weighted down, anchored by all the things she couldn't let go” (15) -love this quote sooo much

“Kissing him is like the wildest, most thrilling thing that has ever happened to me. It’s like diving into the deep end over and over” (187)

Review: Everyday by David Levithan

Everyday by David Levithan

Published by Knopf Books for Young Readers 2012

336 Pages

Source: Borrowed from the Library

Summary:

   Every day a different body. Every day a different life. Every day in love with the same girl.

There’s never any warning about where it will be or who it will be. A has made peace with that, even established guidelines by which to live: Never get too attached. Avoid being noticed. Do not interfere.
It’s all fine until the morning that A wakes up in the body of Justin and meets Justin’s girlfriend, Rhiannon. From that moment, the rules by which A has been living no longer apply. Because finally A has found someone he wants to be with—day in, day out, day after day.

My Thoughts:

   Aside from Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist, I’m embarrassed to say that this is my only other David Levithan book.  It  definitely won’t be my last.  Everyday has a unique premise, A (who is genderless) is a seemingly lost soul that resides in someone different every day. It never knows who it will be next;  the people it might meet or the situations it might have to survive.  A meets Rhiannon and life as A had know it changes. A love story, complicated by the fact the his/her appearance is different every day. Can we love someone for only what's on the inside?

Completely compelling and as I turned the last page I felt there had to be more, I wanted more. He’s writing a sequel right? I became so use to A’s voice, I wasn’t ready to say goodbye. Days after reading I’m still thinking about it. Highly Recommended.

Quotes I LOVED:

“The clock always ticks. There are times you don't hear it, and there are times that you do.”

“There will always be more questions. Every answer leads to more questions. The only way to survive is to let some of them go.”

Review: Before We Go by Amy Bright

Before We Go by Amy Bright

Published by Red Deer Press May 2012

Source: ARC provided by the author

Summary:

Visiting her dying grandmother in hospital is not what 17 year old Emily wants to be doing for New Year's Eve, but it's not like she has anything else to do. Leaving the hospital, she meets a teen-aged boy named Alex, who is also leaving. When he invites her to go for a burger with him and his sister, she goes along. What Emily doesn't know is that Alex, too, is dying, their meeting is not a coincidence, and she is in for a New Year's Eve unlike any other.

My Thoughts:

   I was excited to be contacted by Canadian author Amy Bright about reviewing her book Before We Go.  The story was a great surprise as there was much more to the book than I initially expected. They say not to judge a book by its cover but I tend to do that initially and I wish the cover for Before We Go was stronger, and spoke more to the gem of a story inside it. 

As the story opens we meet Emily who is at her grandmother’s bedside in the hospital. Her grandmother is gravely ill with pneumonia and Emily knows that it won’t be long until the the dread of loneliness she feels will be made a reality. She discovers an unexpected friend in Alex when she meets him in the elevator, as well as something completely unexpected. 

I loved how Emily’s and Alex’s lives were so seamlessly intertwined. The author writes both female (Emily) and male (Alex) voices well and I related to Emily’s feelings of loneliness and Alex’s wish to help her as a way to deal with his.   The writing was strong, with well developed characters and parts of the plot fit together perfectly. I enjoyed the subtle surprises and there were many moments that were completely unexpected. Recommended for those who enjoy good contemporary stories, that leave you wanting more. Great for fans of Sarah Dessen. I’m looking forward to more from this Canadian author.

Recommended.

Dear Teen Me–Feature 3

Today I welcome talented Canadian Author Vikki VanSickle-


Dear Teen Me,

You look great. Really, you do. One day you’re going to look back at pictures of your hot self and think Damn I looked good! So wear that leopard-print pencil skirt. Who cares if no one else in school has one like it? Maybe that’s a good thing. You aren’t required to wear a uniform, so why concern yourself with dressing like everyone else in clothing that you hate (doctor pants, GAP sweatshirt) when you’ve got that awesome vintage Betsy Johnson skirt in your closet?
Also, you should definitely order that spinach dip. And dessert, too. Watching what you eat is one thing, but obsessing about it is another. You love food! Why deny yourself something delicious because you think you should be five, ten, fifteen pounds lighter? It’s not the food that’s the problem, it’s the fat glasses. Right now you don’t even know you’re wearing them, but you are. They’re not just the wrong prescription, they’re a BAD prescription, adding weight where it simply does not exist. You will look through the yearbook ten years from now and wonder, “Who is that totally svelte, scrumptious-looking gal? I could have sworn I was a little on the plump side in high school, but this girl looks perfect.”
Don’t worry about boys. It’s okay to not date in high school. There is plenty of romance in your future and you will be so happy that you held off until it felt right. When your new university friends are sitting around swapping dating horror stories from high school you’ll be thankful that you can’t relate. Not all your love stories will have happy endings, but you won’t regret a single chapter.
Saying no is hard, so start practising now. Turning down a job or a favour or even an invitation when you’d rather stay home and read is not a sign of weakness; it just means that you value your time. There’s a big difference between being nice and being a doormat. Priding yourself on being a people-pleaser will get you nowhere. It certainly won’t make you any happier. It’s impossible to be all things to all people, so focus on what you want to do, which is put on those awesome red shorts and go to the DQ for a milkshake, stag. Or maybe with some of your friends. On the way be sure to roll down the windows and blast that Disney mixed tape. Part of Your World is an awesome song and you can rock it like no one else.

Love always,
Vix

Learn more about Vikki on her website: http://vikkivansickle.wordpress.com/
 


About this feature:
Dear Teen Me (Edited by E. Kristen Anderson & Miranda Kenneally) includes advice from over 70 authors and I’m thrilled to be part of the blog tour. My tour stop date is Tuesday October 30th, and on that date I’ll be posting a review, hosting a giveaway and sharing my own Dear Teen Me letter. In the meantime, I was inspired by the book and decided to invite friends, fellow bloggers, and authors to write their own letter. Through out the month of October I’ll be be posting them here. I still have space for anyone else who would like to participate-just contact me through email or by leaving a comment on this post.

Review: The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater

The Raven Boys by Maggie Stiefvater

Published September 18th 2012

Scholastic Press –390 pages

Source: ARC provided by the publisher

Summary:

“There are only two reasons a non-seer would see a spirit on St. Mark’s Eve,” Neeve said. “Either you’re his true love . . . or you killed him.” 

   It is freezing in the churchyard, even before the dead arrive.
Every year, Blue Sargent stands next to her clairvoyant mother as the soon-to-be dead walk past. Blue herself never sees them—not until this year, when a boy emerges from the dark and speaks directly to her.
His name is Gansey, and Blue soon discovers that he is a rich student at Aglionby, the local private school. Blue has a policy of staying away from Aglionby boys. Known as Raven Boys, they can only mean trouble.
But Blue is drawn to Gansey, in a way she can’t entirely explain. He has it all—family money, good looks, devoted friends—but he’s looking for much more than that. He is on a quest that has encompassed three other Raven Boys: Adam, the scholarship student who resents all the privilege around him; Ronan, the fierce soul who ranges from anger to despair; and Noah, the taciturn watcher of the four, who notices many things but says very little.
For as long as she can remember, Blue has been warned that she will cause her true love to die. She never thought this would be a problem. But now, as her life becomes caught up in the strange and sinister world of the Raven Boys, she’s not so sure anymore.


My Thoughts:
    It should be no surprise that Maggie Stiefvater is one of my favourite authors.  The Raven Boys received a lot of buzz before the ARC release at ALA, and BEA and rightfully so, Maggie is a gifted storyteller.  She has this amazing ability to reinvent herself as a writer each time she begins a new series or writes a new book. The feel of The Raven Boys is completely different from her other novels, the pacing a little slower but from the beginning you know that it will build to something great.

I loved the premise of the novel and was immediately drawn to Blue’s matter a fact way of dealing with people and the world around her. Though Blue is the main character, Gansey is really at the centre of the story and is what propels the reader forward. He is obsessed with discovering the location Welsh King Owain Glendower, believing he rests along Ley Lines…areas with paranormal activity. *I became fascinated with the idea of Ley Lines and when I finished reading the book I began to research whether ley lines can be found in Ontario…apparently there is one about 4 hours away. One day I plan to take a road trip to see if I can locate it*

As much as I loved Blue and Gansey, I have to say that Adam was my favourite character. He’s the steadfast friend, who stands behind Gansey, adores Blue but has his own painful back story. There was just something about him that I could relate to.

Beautifully written with so many wonderful surprises throughout; there were twists that I definitely did not see coming. A riveting first book in an expected series of four.

Review: Envy by Elizabeth Miles

Envy by Elizabeth Miles

Published by Simon Pulse –September 4th 2012

Pages: 320

Source: ARC provided by the publisher

Summary:

The Furies are back in the second book of a chilling paranormal trilogy where revenge rules the day—and “sorry” isn’t going to cut it.

Spring is coming, and the ice is slowly melting in Ascension…revealing the secrets buried beneath.

     Emily Winters knows the Furies have roots in Ascension, Maine—but she’s about to discover that they’re deeper than she ever imagined. With the help of her new friend Drea, she vows to dig them out. But it’s hard to focus when she’s desperate to make up with JD, and to figure out why Crow, a mysterious Ascension High dropout, seems to be shadowing her.
     Meanwhile, new girl Skylar McVoy is determined to leave her own dark past behind. So she’s thrilled when popular Gabby takes her under her wing, and the stunning and sophisticated Meg offers to give her a major makeover. But everyone knows what happens to the vainest girl of all…

     It’s tempting to be naughty. But beware: the Furies are always watching, and their power grows stronger by the day.

My Thoughts:

  I was thrilled to receive Envy in my mailbox. I enjoyed Fury so much that I have been anticipating the release of Envy for some time.  It did not disappoint. Emily, Drea, Gabby and JD are back and we are also introduced to Skylar and Crowe. The story begins almost where Fury left off and unlike some “second” books, the transition is seamless.  The Furies are back as well and are more evil than ever (is that even possible?). There is something so sinister about how they are described. Breathtakingly beautiful but absolutely ruthless. I had this creepy feeling wash over me more than once while reading.

    Skylar is a fascinating character. New to Ascension she believes she now has “a chance to build a new life, to build a life”. We’re not told what has happened in the past to Skylar –just given glimpses-but we certainly get the sense it was anything but good. Skylar  becomes obsessed with Gabby and being popular, which leads her to making terrible choices. Though I didn’t agree with how she acted, I could totally relate to that feeling of wanting to be someone. To be important. I think many will relate to that feeling.
Envy was well paced and gripping. I couldn’t stop reading until it was finished and  I can not wait to revisit Ascension again in the 3rd and final novel even though the Furies scare the heck out of me.
Definitely Recommended!




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I’m thrilled to welcome Elizabeth Miles back to the blog for a Q&A about Envy:

1. I know the series is a planned trilogy- but is there a possibility that you might continue and write more in the series?

 I'm glad you want more! However, I don't think it's gonna happen, at least not right now. I've got a few other projects simmering on the back burner of my mind, and while it'll be bittersweet to bid farewell to the Furies (and more importantly, to Em, JD, Gabby, and the rest of the bunch), I'm excited for a new adventure.

2. Is the character of JD based on anyone you know? What about the character of Crow (my new fav)?

        Like I say in the acknowledgements of ENVY, I used to think a guy like JD was too good to be true -- and then I met my *fiancee* (!?!). JD isn't based on him, per se, but I can't help but think that a lot of the love and warmth that surrounds JD's character is influenced by the love and warmth I feel about my man, who happens to also be a) a little kooky, b) sometimes self-righteous, and c) cool with being a sensitive dude (three characteristics I'd definitely peg to JD).
As for Crow...He's an amalgamation of lots of bad boys I've known over the years (or wished I knew!), plus some classic TV guys like Sawyer from Lost, Dylan McKay from 90210, and Caleb from Pretty Little Liars. Now that I think about it, Crow also reminds me a little of an ex-boyfriend of mine, one who was a little angry at the world and took it out on himself.

3. I had a couple of revelations while reading, and I was taken by surprise by how much I related to the character of Skylar.I think many teens will understand where Skylar is coming from. Do you have any advice for teens on how to build confidence?

That's great to hear! Skylar is obviously very troubled, but I'm happy that her story resonated with you. Honestly, there were times during high school when I felt a lot like Skylar (though I obviously never took that angst to such an extreme). I think there are lots of young women who feel like the odds are stacked against them or that the social hierarchy is both arbitrary and unfair -- because it usually is! 
Lauren (Oliver, one of my closest and oldest friends) and I wrote letters to each other in the upcoming Dear Teen Me anthology (Zest Books, October); in part, they address the issue of building confidence and trusting oneself. I think it's important to remember that what happens in high school doesn't necessarily set the stage for the rest of your adult life. It's a time to try things out, discover what matters to you, make mistakes, and learn from them. It's hard to remember in the moment, but it's true: This too shall pass. The only way to lose your insecurities and gain confidence is to look inside yourself and find stuff you like. Affirmation sought from outsiders will dissipate; self-love stays the course.

4. I really felt the Furies "evil" intensify in this book, they were seriously creepy...anyway you can give us a sneak peak into what might happen next?

They really are so freaking scary sometimes, aren't they? The thing about the Furies is that they are totally ruthless. Once their evil is unleashed, they'll do anything to see it spread further. The battle reaches its final showdown in Book Three (ETERNITY, which I am currently finishing up)...Will Em lose the life she knows now? Can she fight the Furies on her own? Will she and JD finally make it? Are the Furies in Ascension for good?

5. I've become obsessed with author’s playlists for books recently- was there a song or (songs) that helped you while you wrote Envy?

The funny thing is, I cannot listen to music when I write -- I find it very distracting. However, as you know, I still like to create playlists for my books. Here's the one for Fury, and here are a few of the songs you'll find on my Envy playlist:
 
-- Blue Orchid by the White Stripes (Frantic energy and an orchid mention - it just clicks.)
-- Living Room by Tegan and Sara (First of all, I just love this song and Tegan and Sara in general. Also, there is something just a little creepy about this song...It's very intense.)
-- Myth by Beach House (I picture this being a song Em and Drea would listen to in the car.)
-- You Belong With Me by Taylor Swift (Obviously, this is like Skylar's theme song.)

Look for the full Envy playlist at elizabethmilesbooks.com (where you can also find the dreamy story of my recent engagement!).

Thanks so much Elizabeth!!

Review & Blog Tour: Rage Within by Jeyn Roberts

I was thrilled to be asked to be a part of the Rage Within Blog Tour:

Rage Within by Jeyn Roberts

Published by September 4th 2012 by Simon & Schuster 

Pages: 384

Source: ARC provided by the publisher

Summary:

      Aries, Clementine, Michael, and Mason have survived the first wave of the apocalypse that wiped out most of the world’s population and turned many of the rest into murderous Baggers. Now they’re hiding out in an abandoned house in Vancouver with a ragtag group of fellow teen survivors, trying to figure out their next move.
     Aries is trying to lead, but it’s hard to be a leader when there are no easy answers and every move feels wrong. Clementine is desperate to find her brother Heath, but it’s impossible to know where he’d be, assuming he’s alive. Michael is haunted by the memories of his actions during his harrowing struggle to survive. And Mason is struggling with something far worse: the fear that he may be a danger to his friends.
     As the Baggers begin to create a new world order, these four teens will have to trust and rely on each other in order to survive.

My Thoughts:

This was good. I mean really good. I enjoyed the Dark Inside. It was creepy, and disturbing, but Rage Within takes the “creep” factor to a whole new level. We learn much more about the origin of the Baggers in this novel and I loved the twist of how they came to be… completely unexpected. The story is narrated in a similar way to the first, with the four main characters alternating the voice in the novel. This format works with a book like this and I enjoyed reading the different perspectives of the characters throughout. If there is one thing I’ve learned from reading apocalyptic fiction it’s that I would simply not survive for very long. The way these teens, band together and survive is incredible. They way they find hope and the strength to carry on in the midst of disaster is more than admirable. Fast paced, chilling, and an interesting exploration of character; the Rage Within was what I hoped for and more. Recommended.

I am  happy to welcome CLEMENTINE; one of my favourite characters from this series for interview on the blog:

1. Do you think there is anything that would have prepared you for what has happened in the world?

I don’t know. How do you really get prepared for that? They don't really teach stuff like that in high school. It would have been nice to have a heads up about the town hall tho. Maybe then I could have warned everyone or at least gotten Mom and Dad out of town.

2.What have you learned, what advice would you give to other survivors?

Be careful with who you trust. I know, that’s almost impossible unless you plan on living all by yourself. I was alone in the beginning and I hated it. Life has been better since hooking up with Michael and the others. But at the same time, you’ve got to be careful. Baggers are sneaky and they are everywhere.

3. What is the first thing you will say to Heath when you find him?

 I think about that all the time to be honest. I don’t know. So much time has passed and I’ve changed a lot. I guess I’ll tell him about Mom and Dad. At least he’ll know what happened to them. After that, I don’t know. I think I just want to hug him.

4. Do you have any hope for the future? What do you think it will look like?

I do have hope for the future. Mason says we have to fight and I agree. There will come a time when we have to stand up to the Baggers and take back our world. We have to show them that we’re not just slaves and we’re not afraid. I think we could do a lot of good with the world once the Baggers are gone. Maybe everyone could join together and form a smaller community. It’s strange to see all those empty buildings.
Maybe everyone could start over on an island. I like that idea. It would be peaceful and quiet. It would be nice to live in a place where we could grow a vegetable garden. I’m good with things like that. No Baggers. Everyone working together to make our new life a real one.

Thank you Clementine!

About the Author:

Jeyn Roberts (pronounced Jen - the Y is silent)grew up in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, and started writing at an early age, having her first story published when she was 16 in a middle-grade anthology called LET ME TELL YOU. 

When she was 21, she moved to Vancouver with dreams of being a rock star, graduating from the University of British Columbia with a degree in Writing and Psychology. For the next few years she played in an alternative/punk band called Missing Mile before moving to England where she received her MA from the prestigious Creative Writing graduate course at Bath Spa University. Jeyn is a former singer, songwriter, actress, bicycle courier and tree planter. 
An avid traveler, she’s been around the world, most recently, teaching high school in South Korea. 
A lover of animals, Jeyn volunteers regularly with helping abandoned and abused animals, especially cats.

Learn more about Rage Within.
Follow Jeyn Roberts' blog.
Visit JeynRoberts.co.uk.
Like Jeyn Roberts on Facebook.
Follow @JeynRoberts on Twitter.

Aug 27 – Blog tour kick off at yasimon.ca

Aug 28 – Lost in the Library blog - Q&A with Clementine
Aug 29 – Escaping One Book at a Time blog - Q&A with Michael
Aug 30 – The Bursting Bookshelf - Q&A with Mason
Aug 31 – Book Nerd - Q&A with Aries

Simon & Schuster has generously provided an ARC of Rage Within for one lucky reader!

Leave a comment on this blog post telling me one skill you would need to survive an Apocalypse; as well as your email address. Entrants must be 13+, Canada only. 

Winner will be chosen at random on September  2nd 2012 and announced here.

How would you survive?

Review: Sweet Evil by Wendy Higgins

Sweet Evil by Wendy Higgins

Published by Harper Teen May 2012

Source: Reviewed from copy borrowed from the library

Summary:

What if there were teens whose lives literally depended on being bad influences?
This is the reality for sons and daughters of fallen angels.
Tender-hearted Southern girl Anna Whitt was born with the sixth sense to see and feel emotions of other people. She’s aware of a struggle within herself, an inexplicable pull toward danger, but Anna, the ultimate good girl, has always had the advantage of her angel side to balance the darkness within. It isn’t until she turns sixteen and meets the alluring Kaidan Rowe that she discovers her terrifying heritage and her willpower is put to the test. He’s the boy your daddy warned you about. If only someone had warned Anna.
Forced to face her destiny, will Anna embrace her halo or her horns?

My Thoughts:

 I wasn’t sure what to expect when I picked this up. I thought I had enough of reading about fallen angels…. soooo not the case with this book. I’m not a fan of the cover but I love the title “Sweet Evil” because it speaks to the possible sides in all of us and the author Wendy Higgins does a phenomenal job depicting the inner struggle.
 Anna is different. She remembers every detail of her life, even right back to her birth. She can tell what people are feeling by their “auras”, but she has spent her life up to now, wondering why. Until she meets Kaidan Rowe. A dreamy, bad boy with all the right moves, she’s as drawn to him as he is to her, and he knows exactly what Anna is. These two have amazing chemistry together, and Kaidan might be one of my new favourite “book boyfriends” (le sigh)
  Aside from the yummy guy, the story centers on Anna as she tries to figure out her purpose. Just like us, she struggles with good and evil, in herself and in the world. I love books that surprise me. I expected to read this as an “escapism” read but it was much more. There were many moments where I unexpectedly paused to reflect on the meaning of the words, Anna’s situation and how it could be interpreted and relevant for my life. Recommended, and I’m looking forward to the next one.



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Grim by Anna Waggener -Book Review

Today I’m thrilled to welcome a new guest poster on my blog. 

Daphne is 15, an avid reader and one of my favourite teens ever.

She has great taste in books!! Welcome Daphne!!!

Grim by Anna Waggener

Published June 2012

Source: Finished copy provided by the publisher

Summary:

   When Erika wakes up after a horrific car crash, she finds herself somewhere between earth and heaven, between life and death. She doesn't want to accept help from Jeremiah, who she's not sure she can trust, even as she finds herself drawn to him, following him into a grim city of souls. She's not sure who wants to help her and who wants to hurt her. And she's desperate to get back to her children. 

Shawn's never thought about having to shoulder the responsibility of caring for his young sister Megan and his reckless older sister. And he never imagined that the three of them would find themselves in a haunted wood, sometimes chased, sometimes assisted, never sure where they're headed.

Daphne’s Thoughts:

   GRIM by Anna Waggener, is an incredible book combining myths and legends to produce a truly vicious world where the dead live. Pulled in by its twists, turns, and unsaid truths, the reader will be driven to finish this book with bated breath. Waggener creates a vivid scenario with a cast of authentic characters, bewitching and readily identifiable. The novel weaves a haunting tale by interspersing intriguing nuggets of the past within an unfolding storyline. GRIM is both enchanting and horrifying in turns. The reader will be forced to contemplate the events within its pages long after the last page is turned, eagerly anticipating her next novel.



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Once Every Never by Lesley Livingston–Book Review

Once Every Never by Lesley Livingston

Published by Penguin Canada July 2011

Source: Personal Copy

Summary:

Clarinet Reid is a pretty typical teenager. On the surface. She’s smart, but a bit of a slacker; outgoing, but just a little insecure; not exactly a mischief-maker, but trouble tends to find her wherever she goes. Also? She unwittingly carries a centuries-old Druid Blood Curse running through her veins.
Now, with a single thoughtless act, what started off as the Summer Vacation in Dullsville suddenly spirals into a deadly race to find a stolen artifact, avert an explosive catastrophe, save a Celtic warrior princess, right a dreadful wrong that happened centuries before Clare was even born, and if there’s still time, literally, maybe even get a date.
This is the kind of adventure that happens to a girl once every never.

My Thoughts:

  I adore Lesley Livingston’s writing style, and if you’ve ever had the pleasure of meeting Lesley in person you know how hilariously funny she is. Her sense of humour is found through out the book in the voices of Clare and her best friend…Allie.   Spending her Summer in England, Clare (short for Clarinet) discovers she is a part of a century old curse and travels through time to where the Celtic Druids were at war with the invading Romans.
I found the scenes that centred around this time in history fascinating and immediately starting researching the name Boudicca and Celtic Druids when I finished. For me as a reader, that is a sign of a great read. One that inspires you to read more about it…one that takes you to different places.
Clare is a great character. She’s clever, a little snarky and just “girly” enough.  Her and Al (Allie) make a fabulous pair and it’s great how they stick together no matter what. I have to say that the love interests in this story weren’t too shabby either. Celtic Warrior Connal with his rippling muscles and bravery was a great contrast to the good looking but “brainy” Milo. Hmmm… who to choose?

I really enjoyed Once Every Never and was thrilled to find out that Lesley is working on a follow-up.



For more information about Lesley and her books check out  http://www.lesleylivingston.com/
 or Follow her Facebook Page

Embrace by Jessica Shirvington : Book Review, Guest Post

Embrace by Jessica Shirvington

Published by Sourcebooks Fire 2011

Reviewed by Donna

from ARC provided by the Publisher

Summary:

    It starts with a whisper: “It’s time for you to know who you are…” 

Violet Eden dreads her seventeenth birthday. After all, it’s hard to get too excited about the day that marks the anniversary of your mother’s death. As if that wasn’t enough, disturbing dreams haunt her sleep and leave her with very real injuries. There’s a dark tattoo weaving its way up her arms that wasn’t there before. 
Violet is determined to get some answers, but nothing could have prepared her for the truth. The guy she thought she could fall in love with has been keeping his identity a secret: he’s only half-human—oh, and same goes for her. 
A centuries-old battle between fallen angels and the protectors of humanity has chosen its new warrior. It’s a fight Violet doesn’t want, but she lives her life by two rules: don’t run and don’t quit. When angels seek vengeance and humans are the warriors, you could do a lot worse than betting on Violet Eden…


Special thanks to my friend Donna for guest posting today: Here are her thoughts:


     I must admit that I approached this book with some trepidation. I am sure that many readers can relate to the feeling of saturation when it comes to certain genres or themes. Therefore, when I learned that this novel was about angels, I performed a very large eye roll, and opened the pages....

    I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed this book. Jessica Shrivington has created an engrossing story rich with spiritual and angelic lore, based on religious and cultural history that most readers will recognize. Believable dialogue and character development add to the novel's attraction.

This story features Violet Eden, a young girl raised solely by her father when her mother dies in childbirth. Fiercely independent and artistically talented, Vi has surrounded herself with a few choice friends, particularly Lincoln, an older guy who starts out simply her self-defence trainer, but turns into a devoted and treasured confidante. Upon her seventeenth birthday, Violet experiences several unique occurrences: she is given a mysterious letter and bracelet from her mother, she begins to have vivid and confusing dreams and she has discovered unusual markings on her wrists. When Lincoln and his mysterious friend, Griffin, reveal that she is half-human and half-angel, Violet is faced with shock and fear as she learns that an angelic battle between good and evil forces are playing out on earth. She learns that she must make a decision of whether to embrace her angelic powers and become a part of this war, or deny her destiny and live her life in constant danger.

   The theme of good versus evil is personified in the relationships that Violet experiences. While Lincoln represents good, Violet is approached by another angel named Phoenix. Shrivington creates a realistic storyline in Violet's sexual awakening in Vi's exploration of her physical and emotional attraction to these men. The character of Violet is at is best here, as a typical 17-year old's reactions to romantic love is portrayed with all the insecurities and impulsive actions to which readers are sure to relate. Shrivington handles this love triangle with ease.

   The last part of the novel describes Violet's decision to "embrace", an act that is fraught with physical danger and permanence. When Violet learns that she is spiritually paired with Lincoln, she faces an uncertain future. I eagerly anticipate the next novel and I highly recommend this book to fans of the genre.

The Dead I Know by Scot Gardner: Review and Blog Tour

Hi! Thanks for stopping by the blog for my stop on the blog tour for:
 

Summary

When Aaron gets a job at a funeral home, he surprisingly takes to it. But there are dark secrets hidden in Aaron’s subconscious.
He experiences dangerous bouts of sleepwalking and recurring dreams he can’t explain: a lifeless hand, a lipsticked mouth, a man,
a gun... Can he piece the clues together and figure out the truth of his past?


My Thoughts:
     I’m not sure where to begin. Wow. Just wow. This book evoked such emotion in me. The writing is dark, raw and powerful and I was completely transported into the life of this boy named Aaron. As much as this book is about “the dead”, and his job at the funeral home, the story really touches on humanity,  and those who seemingly come in to our lives right when we need them, even if we don’t recognize it at the time. The relationship between Mr. Barton (Aaron’s boss) and Aaron was a wonder to watch unfold. This man’s faith in a boy he barely knew, his  belief in Aaron’s potential was inspiring. If only everyone could have a Mr. Barton in their lives. 
I wrote down a few stand out quotes from the book. Scot Gardner has a way with words and they seem to speak the truth of the moment. These two quotes really stood out for me:


pg. 94  “Hold on, don’t skip all the good bits, I thought. Don’t dream me a life without the romance. Let me do the colouring in myself”


pg. 171 “When somebody reaches out the way Skye had, I’ll have the guts to take their hand and my world will be a different place I know it”

While reading the The Dead I Know, I was  reminded of how I felt reading Perks of a Being a Wallflower. It makes me feel blessed to be a reader, when I have the opportunity to escape inside a book like this; a book that I feel has changed my views about myself, the world and my place in it. Highly recommended.

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I am thrilled to have had the opportunity to ask Scot a few questions:



First Scot , I have to say that I was completely and utterly blown away by the Dead I Know. What a powerful book. I only hope my review and these questions even come close to doing it justice.
Thanks Jen, glad you enjoyed it.


1. I have to ask about your inspiration for the book-What inspired you? Did Aaron’s character come to you first or the story?


I’ve had an unusual relationship with death. My godparents are funeral directors in Victoria, Australia and as kids we were never sheltered from the realities of the business of death. Having said that, the character of Aaron was alive and well in my head before I’d connected him to the setting of a funeral home. He was inspired by a kid I knew who’d lost everything and everyone from his life due to war in Africa. His resilience haunts me still.


2. Mam’s character hit close to home for me as I have a grandmother with Alzheimer’s, she too was a brilliant woman; Have you had anyone in your life with Dementia?


My wife’s mum suffered Alzheimer’s. She lived with us for two years before she needed more care than we could provide. As a storyteller, watching her in decline made me realise that story is everything. Stories are what hold our fragile inner worlds together and if you take the stories away—like Dementia does—people become photocopies of themselves. There was some grace in my mother-in-law’s decline, too—she loved without complication, without expectation, without the hurt she’d hung on to all her life. And there were some funny things, too—she tried to open a can of beetroot with an axe because she couldn’t find a can opener. She lives on in the character of Mam.


3. Mr. Barton was my favourite character (aside from Aaron of course) His patience, understanding, and support makes him the ultimate hero in my eyes. A mentor and father figure many would love to have. Did you have someone in your life that stood by you no matter what?


John Barton is a synthesis of a number of good men in my life. My godfather, Kevin the funeral director, is a kind and loving man who epitomises grace under pressure and has stuck his neck out for me time and again. My dad, Jim, is compassionate and forthright and has loved me and stood by me through the rough and tumble of a creative life. My first boss, Stewie, is in there, too. Gruff and practical when he needed to be, he shared everything he knew about life in three-second bites of conversation. As a young bloke, that was gold for me.


4. Themes of perseverance, courage, the simple act of holding on and reaching out when things seem at their bleakest sang out to me, is there any “one” thing you hope readers will take with them after reading your book?


If I had a catchphrase I’d engrave on a pen to imbue itself into everything I write, it would distil to a single word. Hope.


Thank you so much for your time, and for writing this amazing novel.


Pleasure is mine. Thanks for your insightful questions.
Scot

About Scot Gardner:
Scot Gardner has written several critically acclaimed novels for young adults. His debut novel, One Dead Seagull, was followed by White Ute Dreaming, a powerful story of first love, mates, and a yellow dog. His third novel, Burning Eddy, was shortlisted for the CBC Award and the NSW Premier’s Literary Award for Young Adults. Gravity was also shortlisted for the Victorian Premier’s Literary Award in 2007. The Dead I Know was published by Allen & Unwin in Australia in 2011; it is the first Scot Gardner novel to be published in Canada.


For more info about Scot:
http://www.scotgardner.com/

Next stop on the Blog Tour:
The Fable Faerie

Book Review: First Day On Earth by Cecil Castellucci

First Day On Earth by Cecil Castellucci

Published by September 2011 by Scholastic Press

Reviewed from finished copy provided by publisher.

Summary

A startling, wonderful novel about the true meaning of being an alien in an equally alien world.
"We are specks. Pieces of dust in this universe. Big nothings.
"I know what I am."
Mal lives on the fringes of high school. Angry. Misunderstood. Yet loving the world -- or, at least, an idea of the world.
Then he meets Hooper. Who says he's from another planet. And may be going home very soon.

My Thoughts
  Mal is an outsider. He sits on the outskirts of activity at school. At home he is the care taker of his alcoholic mom. He also believes he was abducted by Aliens, left only with the scattered memories of those experiences. He’s alone in a world he feels he can not escape.
“There is a question that I always ask myself. I ask it many times during the day. How far away from here is far away enough? How far away would I be willing to go? My answer is always the same. You? I’d bet you’d think the moon was far away enough. I say the moon is still too close”pg16
  First Day On Earth is a short read; but it’s a powerful one. A mere 148 pages, it packs in such strength, and beauty and rawness. I think so many can relate to that feeling of not belonging, and the author captures it perfectly here. I love Cecil Castellucci’s writing style.
A book for teens and adults alike, there is much to experience and learn from this amazing novel.

Never Fall Down by Patricia McCormick

Never Fall Down by Patricia McCormick

Published by Harper Collins May 2012

Reviewed from ARC provided by the publisher 

Summary:

When soldiers arrive at his hometown in Cambodia, Arn is just a kid, dancing to rock 'n' roll, hustling for spare change, and selling ice cream with his brother. But after the soldiers march the entire population into the countryside, his life is changed forever. Arn is separated from his family and assigned to a labor camp: working in the rice paddies under a blazing sun, he sees the other children, weak from hunger, malaria, or sheer exhaustion, dying before his eyes. He sees prisoners marched to a nearby mango grove, never to return. And he learns to be invisible to the sadistic Khmer Rouge, who can give or take away life on a whim.
One day, the soldiers ask if any of the kids can play an instrument. Arn's never played a note in his life, but he volunteers. In order to survive, he must quickly master the strange revolutionary songs the soldiers demand--and steal food to keep the other kids alive. This decision will save his life, but it will pull him into the very center of what we know today as the Killing Fields. And just as the country is about to be liberated from the Khmer Rouge, Arn is handed a gun and forced to become a soldier. He lives by the simple credo: "Over and over I tell myself one thing: never fall down."

My Thoughts:
“Over and over I tell myself one thing: never fall down”. -This book is based on the true experiences of Arn Chon-Pond and his experience when the Khmer Rouge came into power. It is tragic, and disturbing. I am embarrassed to say that I had no idea this happened. I was young during this time period but still-while I was reading I kept asking myself –how did I not know about this? Sometimes I feel like I live with blinders on, which is one of many reasons why books like this need to be written, why we need to be reminded of the horror that can happen.  Books like this, like Sold or like The Boy and Striped Pyjamas, leave me shaken and upset but I think that's the point right? It's so easy to get caught up in our "western lives" that we can forget and/or ignore the atrocities that have happened and continue to happen.
What makes his story even more incredible is not just that Arn survived but that he has done incredible things with his life since. He continues to give back to his community and country.
I didn’t give this book a “rating” on GoodReads...how can I possible rate something like this?? Brilliantly written, this book is a reminder of how lucky I am to have the love of family and a roof over my head. A bed to sleep in. A silent night, without screaming or gun shots or fear of losing someone I love. It makes the worries of my day, small and insignificant.
An important read. Destined to be an award winner.

Other titles about the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia: 
A Song for Cambodia - by Michelle Lord
First they Killed My Father - by Loung Ung
When Broken Glass Floats - by Chanrithy Him

Book Review: Between the Lines by Jodi Picoult & Samantha Van Leer

Between the Lines by Jodi Picoult & Samantha Van Leer

Published by Simon Pulse June 2012

Reviewed from ARC provided by the publisher

Summary:

    Delilah is a bit of a loner who prefers spending her time in the school library with her head in a book—one book in particular. Between the Lines may be a fairy tale, but it feels real. Prince Oliver is brave, adventurous, and loving. He really speaks to Delilah.
And then one day Oliver actually speaks to her. Turns out, Oliver is more than a one-dimensional storybook prince. He’s a restless teen who feels trapped by his literary existence and hates that his entire life is predetermined. He’s sure there’s more for him out there in the real world, and Delilah might just be his key to freedom.
   Delilah and Oliver work together to attempt to get Oliver out of his book, a challenging task that forces them to examine their perceptions of fate, the world, and their places in it. And as their attraction to each other grows along the way, a romance blossoms that is anything but a fairy tale.

My Thoughts:
    I am a fan of Jodi Picoult. I love her writing style, I love the characters she creates and her books have always given me something to think about; a new perspective and way of looking at the world.  I liked Between the Lines in the beginning. I thought the premise was interesting. Imagine if our dreamy book boyfriends could talk to us, or might even be able to leave the pages of their book behind. I know of many avid readers who would love that!!
   I thought Delilah was a believable and likeable character, and I saw a lot of myself in her. I just didn’t feel/believe the chemistry between her and Oliver. Oliver seemed spoiled, insincere and immature and there were a few moments where I felt Delilah should have just closed the book and left him in it.  The book has had mixed reviews..but debuted on the Best Seller list. It just didn’t work for me.

Book Review: Until I Die by Amy Plum

Until I Die by Amy Plum

Published May 8th 2012 by HarperCollins

Reviewed from personal copy

Summary:

Kate and Vincent have overcome the odds and at last they are together in Paris, the city of lights and love.
As their romance deepens there’s one question they can’t ignore: How are they supposed to be together if Vincent can’t resist sacrificing himself to save others? Although Vincent promises that he’ll do whatever it takes to lead a normal life with Kate, will that mean letting innocent people die? When a new and surprising enemy reveals itself, Kate realizes that even more may be at stake—and that Vincent’s immortality is in jeopardy.

My Thoughts:

  There is something special about a book set in Paris. Perhaps its the history, and the romantic atmosphere I always equate with that city, ( oh how I long to visit) it seems so magical.  This is the second book in the  Revenants series,and although I think that Die For Me would have made a great stand alone, I was excited to revisit the story and the characters of Kate and Vincent. I truly adore them as a couple. 

    Kate is determined and strong, yet has already dealt with so much in life. She and  Vincent seem made for each other except for the fact that Vincent is immortal and Kate is not.  They meet their challenges head on, despite the reserved support of family and friends. The book was a bit slow in the building though in hindsight I can see the how the plot was laid out before us. I had my suspicions of who the new enemy would be and kept shouting it out to Kate but it seems characters in books never listen. 

  Overall, a good follow up, but the ending left me yelling NO!!!! When will the next one be out? How does Amy Plum expect me to wait?

Until I Die - Kobo

Until I Die -Book Depository

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Book Review: No Safety in Numbers by Dayna Lorentz

No Safety in Numbers by Dayna Lorentz

Published by Dial Books May 2012

Reviewed from ARC provided by the Publisher

Summary

A biological bomb has just been discovered in the air ducts of a busy suburban mall. At first nobody knows if it's even life threatening, but then the entire complex is quarantined, people start getting sick, supplies start running low, and there's no way out. Among the hundreds of trapped shoppers are four teens.
These four different narrators, each with their own stories, must cope in unique, surprising styles, changing in ways they wouldn't have predicted, trying to find solace, safety, and escape at a time when the adults are behaving badly.
This is a gripping look at people and how they can--and must--change under the most dire of circumstances.
And not always for the better

 My Thoughts:


    Aside from the fact that this title was highly recommended to me, I definitely would have been pulled in by the book comparison “ Life As We Knew It, meets Lord of the Flies in a Mall”.  The story opens and we meet Marco, who is on the run from two determined bullyish jocks from his school. Attempting to hide in a the HVAC closet he stumbles upon something even scarier than the bullies who pursue him.
The bomb has released something in the air and soon the mall is over run in chaos as the people inside the mall  become quarantined and unable to leave.  We follow 4 teens (the narrators) as they attempt to make sense of their surrounding, their situation and each other.  I enjoyed reading the perspectives of each of the 4 teens especially as they realized their worries from earlier in the day ie. what shoes to buy, parent issues, and the latest computer game became unimportant in the face of trying to survive. Themes of sacrifice, helping others or yourself, and the importance of family are laced through out. No Safety in Numbers reads like a stand alone novel. It wasn’t until the last two chapters that I began to accept that the book would not come to conclusion in the next 100 pages. Twists and turns and the voices of the narrators propel the book forward to the inevitable cliff hanger ending. Enjoyable read. (love the cover too) I can also see this becoming a popular recommendation for reluctant teen readers.

No Safety in Numbers Kobo
No Safety in Numbers at Book Depository
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Book Review: Gilt by Katherine Longshore

Gilt by Katherine Longshore

Published by Viking Juvenile May 15 2012

Reviewed from ARC provided by the publisher

Summary:

In the court of King Henry VIII, nothing is free—
and love comes at the highest price of all.
When Kitty Tylney’s best friend, Catherine Howard, worms her way into King Henry VIII’s heart and brings Kitty to court, she’s thrust into a world filled with fabulous gowns, sparkling jewels, and elegant parties. No longer stuck in Cat’s shadow, Kitty’s now caught between two men—the object of her affection and the object of her desire. But court is also full of secrets, lies, and sordid affairs, and as Kitty witnesses Cat’s meteoric rise and fall as queen, she must figure out how to keep being a good friend when the price of telling the truth could literally be her head.

My Thoughts:
Historical fiction isn’t my go-to genre but I am so glad that someone placed this in my hands and said “read”. The story centres around the best friend of Catherine Howard; Kitty Tylney and follows them as young girls wishing to be Ladies of the Court and their eventual arrival.  I turned the pages of Gilt quickly, I worried for Kitty and grew frustrated with her attempts at protecting Catherine, through it all she proved to be a loyal friend.
The author, Katherine Longshore takes us back to a time where the drive for power and status was all many cared about. Your family name was more important than what you looked like, or how you behaved. Gossip could land you in the Tower or worse. When I read books like this I am thankful that I am a woman in this time period and not one in the past. Women at this time were nothing,  just toys and decoration, easily picked up and easily tossed. I can’t imagine all the pressure and stress that came with being a member at court, though maybe the dresses and jewellery made it easier to swallow? (not likely)
Readers will enjoy this well written journey to the past. An adventure into King Henry VIII’s court has all the drama, mystery and backstabbing of a Gossip Girls, or Pretty’s Little Liar’s episode, but Gilt has much more heart. In it we learn about love, sacrifice and the true meaning of friendship. Highly Recommended!

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Gilt at Chapters
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