My Favourite Reads of 2011

With 2011 coming to a close, I thought that it would be a good time to reflect on the books I read this past year. I'm happy to have met my reading goal of 60 books on Goodreads; I no longer need to stress about the message telling me I'm 2% behind. I read incredible books this past year. 

Books that made me laugh, and cry, books I wish I could live inside. Here's my list in no particular order:

Oh how I love this book. I want to be a character inside. I've read it 4 times already and I know it will be one that I read over and over and over again.

Divergent was all I hoped it would be and much much more. As fast paced as The Hunger Games, it lived up to the hype and quickly became one of my favourites to recommend.

Just perfection.

Delirium swept me away. The story line, the characters and Lauren Oliver's incredible ability to turn a phrase into something beautiful and memorable.

I credit reading this one with the blogosphere completely. I wouldn't have picked it up without the recommendations of 3 blogs I regularly visit. Without it I would have missed out on the fabulous Jessica and even fabulouser (is that a word?) Marcus.

Neal Shusterman is a genius and never ever disappoints me. 

Unwind was deeply disturbing and wonderful and heart-wrenching.

Liesl and Po was a beautiful exceptional read.

Ok, so not a literary read but definitely adult escapism at its best. I read through the series in a week. 

Le sigh.... Bones.

Classic coming of age story. So many wonderful moments in this one. I can't wait to see it on the big screen.

I picked up Chime because Gayle Forman highly praised it and she was right. I related to Briony in many ways. Dark, magical and reads differently than so many books out there.

My favourite genre done exceptionally well + Adam ( my new book boyfriend) = amazing read

One of my first reads of 2011, was also one of my favourites.

There you have it, my top 12 for 2011. I can not wait for what 2012 has in store. 

Book Review: The Beginning of After by Jennifer Castle (guest post)

Published by HarperTeen September 2011

Reviewed from ARC provided by the Publisher

Summary

Anyone who’s had something truly crappy happen to them will tell you: It’s all about Before and After. What I’m talking about here is the ka-pow, shake-you-to-your-core-and-turn-your-bones-to-plastic kind of crappy.

Sixteen-year-old Laurel’s world changes instantly when her parents and brother are killed in a terrible car accident. Behind the wheel is the father of her bad-boy neighbor, David Kaufman, whose mother is also killed. In the aftermath of the tragedy, Laurel navigates a new reality in which she and her best friend grow apart, boys may or may not be approaching her out of pity, overpowering memories lurk everywhere, and Mr. Kaufman is comatose but still very much alive. Through it all there is David, who swoops in and out of Laurel’s life and to whom she finds herself attracted against her better judgment. She will forever be connected to him by their mutual loss—a connection that will change them both in unexpected ways.

Today's Review is a guest post by a great friend and co-worker of mine- Jessie.

Thanks Jess!!

Jennifer Castle’s The Beginning of After, is a coming of age story about a girl dealing with the tragic deaths of her parents and younger brother.  As Laurel, the main character, tries to deal with her grief and piece her life back together, she is drawn to the son of the man who was responsible for her losing her family. David is the typical bad boy who is trying to cope with his own pain and does not care who he hurts in the process. Eventually Laurel will have to decide whether she should let herself fall for David or if she should pick Joe, the sweet nice guy. 

 Slow moving but emotionally filled. This book will require Kleenex. Castle very accurately portrays a strong individual going through the grieving process and getting on with their life.  I think anyone who has ever lost someone close to them will identify with this book. Her characters and settings were not very detailed but it perhaps allows more people to relate easier to the story. I was hoping for more in terms of plot and ending but it was still a good read. I think it would have also been great to have David’s perspective.  Overall, I think this is a great book to recommend to anyone who feels a little sad, down on their luck or who has lost someone special.

Book Review: Diary of A Wimpy Kid- Cabin Fever (Guest Post)

Diary of a Wimpy Kid- Cabin Fever

By Jeff Kinney

Published November 2011 by Abrams

My ten year old son is a huge fan of this series. I brought the book home for him, and he read it in a night. He's written the "review" today.

  This Diary of a Wimpy Kid book is about Greg and his friend Rowley as they try to have a Christmas Sale. They put posters up on the school about the sale. It starts to snow and all the marker's get smudged. They take the posters off and there are green stains left. So they runaway and everyone thinks it's graffiti. Greg and Rowley become outlaws. Later Greg gets stuck in his house because of a snow storm. The family food is mysteriously disappearing and they run out of power. It's up to Greg to solve the mystery. Out of a 1-5 rating I would rate it a 4 because it wasn't as exciting as the other books but it was still a good book and it was hilarious.

Book Review: Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi

Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi

Published by HarperCollins Nov 15 2011

Reviewed from ARC provided by the publisher

Summary

Juliette hasn't touched anyone in exactly 264 days. 

The last time she did, it was an accident, but The Reestablishment locked her up for murder. No one knows why Juliette's touch is fatal. As long as she doesn't hurt anyone else, no one really cares. The world is too busy crumbling to pieces to pay attention to a 17-year-old girl. Diseases are destroying the population, food is hard to find, birds don't fly anymore, and the clouds are the wrong color. 

The Reestablishment said their way was the only way to fix things, so they threw Juliette in a cell. Now so many people are dead that the survivors are whispering war-- and The Reestablishment has changed its mind. Maybe Juliette is more than a tortured soul stuffed into a poisonous body. Maybe she's exactly what they need right now. 

Juliette has to make a choice: Be a weapon. Or be a warrior. 

    I have no idea where to begin. The buzz and positive reviews have really said it all. I'm not sure how to articulate how I felt while reading this, in a way that will stand out  do the book justice. 

It was awesome  exceptional from the first page.  The fact that this is my favourite genre to read may have  probably has something to do with my love for this story, but I also think the writing was strong, the plot was compelling and I adored Juliette. I wavered between wanting to be her (um...can we say Adam!) and wanting to rescue her myself.  

I read this is in one sitting. I could not tear myself away, and I know that I'll want to need to go back and re-read again because at the rate I turned the pages I'm sure I missed a few things. :) 

 Tahereh has an lovely, admirable, gifted writing style. She's able to compel the reader forward, but there is still beauty in her words. I marked many phrases and quotes from the book as I read. As I go back to read again, I'm sure I'll find more.  I am looking forward to reading it again, and can not wait for more from this talented author. Highly  Very Highly Recommended.

For more information about the author:   

Her website:  http://taherehmafi.com/ 

Book Review: Hold Me Closer Necromancer by Lish McBride

Hold Me Closer, Necromancer by Lish McBride

Published Oct 12 2010 by Henry Holt and Co.

Hardcover 352 pages

Reviewed from library copy

Summary

Sam leads a pretty normal life. He may not have the most exciting job in the world, but he’s doing all right—until a fast food prank brings him to the attention of Douglas, a creepy guy with an intense violent streak.

Turns out Douglas is a necromancer who raises the dead for cash and sees potential in Sam. Then Sam discovers he’s a necromancer too, but with strangely latent powers.  And his worst nightmare wants to join forces . . . or else.

With only a week to figure things out, Sam needs all the help he can get. Luckily he lives in Seattle, which has nearly as many paranormal types as it does coffee places. But even with newfound friends, will Sam be able to save his skin?

A William C Morris Debut Award Finalist it had a  lot to offer; funny, corny, dark, clever and I couldn't put it down.
Sam is a loveable character, and I rooted for him for the beginning. Initially I had an issue with how ok he seemed with all the freaky things happening around him. But after reading the book as a whole, his attitude toward everything seemed to fit in the big picture.
This was so much more than I expected. I love when that happens. The story has great cross-over appeal for boys and girls, though I'd say it's def. for older teens.

Quotes I Loved:


“Most people felt lost after high school. Sometimes I felt like I'd never really been found in the first place.”


"On top of all that, you're naked. And while I'm going to hate myself for this later, could you put on some clothes? At least just for a little while, so I can think. Then you can go right back to being naked. All the time. With my full blessing.” 


Highly recommended.

Book Review: Darkfall Review and Q & A with Janice Hardy

Darkfall by Janice Hardy -Healing Wars #3

Published by HarperCollins Oct 4th 2011

Hardcover 336 Pages

Reviewed from ARC provided by the author

Summary

Nya’s the one who brought it. And the people love her for it.

With Baseer in shambles and Geveg now an impenetrable military stronghold, Nya and the Underground have fled to a safer location—without Tali. Nya is guilt-ridden over leaving her sister behind and vows to find her, but with the rebellion in full swing and refugees flooding the Three Territories, she fears she never will.

The Duke, desperate to reclaim the throne as his own, has rallied his powerful army. And they are on the move, destroying anyone who gets in the way.

To save her sister, her family, and her people, Nya needs to stay ahead of the Duke’s army and find a way to build one of her own. Past hurts must be healed, past wrongs must be righted, and Nya must decide: Is she merely a pawn in the rebellion, a symbol of hope—or is she ready to be a hero?

I can't say enough how much I love this series. Strong female protagonist, in junior fiction with definite cross over appeal for young adults.  Nya is a such a wonderful main character. I connected with her in Shifter (the first book in the series) and feel like I've watched her grow and develop through these past two books. 

  Still  on the run from the Duke, Nya is thrown into the role of being "hero" and "saviour" for everyone and all she wants to do is save her sister and her friends. She finds out quickly that playing the role of hero can come with unexpected responsibilities and consequences. The characters in this series are so well developed that I began to feel like we were old friends, and when I turned the final page of Darkfall, I was sad that it was over.          One aspect that I wish the author had developed more was the relationship between Daniello and Nya. Their friendship showed signs of becoming more...I could feel it as I read but "more" didn't happen. Maybe it's a good thing? Maybe every book has love develop too quickly and easily? I really wanted a relationship for these two though, they're perfect together.
 The Healing Wars trilogy hasn't garnered a whole lot attention in the Blogger world, but it definitely deserves attention. Compelling and well written. Highly recommended.

I was fortunate to be able to talk Janice Hardy about her series:

1. When did the idea for the Healing Wars series come to you?

I was playing around with common fantasy ideas, trying to see how I could turn them on their heads and do something different. During that time, I went to see the first X-Men movie. One of the characters is named Rogue, who is my favourite superhero, and her power is that she accidentally absorbs other people’s powers when she touches them. I left the movie thinking, “wow, what if you did that with healing? Accidentally healed people when you touched them?”

2. What was your inspiration for writing about healing vs. Pain?

It was that “what if?” idea that really got me thinking about the world and how this magic would work. It was a long process, spread out over several years (my first idea was terrible and got stuck in a drawer for a long time). The thing that really intrigued me though, was that (at that time) healing is almost always portrayed as something positive. I’d never seen any real downsides to it. I wondered what the negatives might be, and could something as good as healing be used for evil. Once I figured out this society bought and sold pain like other goods, the whole thing started coming together.

3. Did you know it would be a trilogy when you began writing? Anyway I can convince you to write more about Nya and Danello?:)

The series idea came to me about halfway through THE SHIFTER. I hadn’t planned on doing a series, but I saw a larger story arc developing that could turn into a trilogy. It started out a one girl’s struggle to save her sister in a dangerous and difficult world, and ended up being a story about a girl who saves her world. The more Nya got drawn into the troubles of her society the more she had to act and do something about it. I had no choice but to go along for that ride.

Folks do ask me about more Nya stories, and while I have no plans right now to do them, if I thought of a new place for the story to go I’d write it. I might do some fun short stories though. Cover some history the books don’t really get into.

4. If there was one thing you hope readers will take away with them after reading your books, what would it be?

That was a great story. I wish I had more profound hopes, but for me it’s all about the storytelling. My favourite authors always whisk me away into their stories, and I love the feeling I get when I finish a fantastic book. I want to give that same feeling to my readers. If they take more away than that, it’s a bonus.

5. Can you tell us what your next project might be?

I’m nearly done with a YA fantasy about an undercover spy. It’s been fun because the protagonist is very different from Nya in how she solves her problems. Nya is all impulse, the new girl is all calculation. 

6. Anything else you’d like to share with your readers?

Let’s see… I just redesigned the website, and you can find some extras up there now. Maps and covers from the foreign editions of the books. Very shortly, I’ll also have some deleted scenes from the books. You’ll be able to read the original ending for THE SHIFTER, and one of my favourite scenes from BLUE FIRE that just didn’t work after revisions.

Thanks so much Janice for stopping by my blog! 

For more information about Janice and The Healing Wars Trilogy, please visit her website:

http://www.janicehardy.com/

You can read my thoughts on The Shifter and Blue Fire, by clicking on the title links.

Book Review: Liesl & Po by Lauren Oliver

Liesl & Po by Lauren Oliver

Published by Harper Collins October 4th 2011

Hardcover 304 Pages

Reviewed from ARC provided by the publisher

Summary

Liesl lives in a tiny attic bedroom, locked away by her cruel stepmother. Her only friends are the shadows and the mice—until one night a ghost appears from the darkness. It is Po, who comes from the Other Side. Both Liesl and Po are lonely, but together they are less alone.

That same night, an alchemist's apprentice, Will, bungles an important delivery. He accidentally switches a box containing the most powerful magic in the world with one containing something decidedly less remarkable

Will's mistake has tremendous consequences for Liesl and Po, and it draws the three of them together on an extraordinary journey.

I'm not sure how I'll write a review that will do this book justice. It's also hard to write my thoughts on it knowing how personal this book was to to the author.

    I connected to the characters immediately. Liesl was lovely. Positive, considering all the trauma she had recently been through. Forced to live in an attic alone after the passing of her father. Locked up by her stepmother, she has only her memories to keep her company. Until Po and Bundle  appear in her room one night, it's the memories of her father keep her going, his love and belief in her. Po is from "the other side" and Lisel hopes this means that he might be able to contact her father, that she might be able to say the things to him, she never got to say.
Contrast that with Will. An apprentice to an abusive magician, like Liesl he's alone in the world. They never would have crossed paths if it weren't for the wooden boxes. One containing the "most powerful magic in the world" the other carrying the ashes of Lisel's father.The adventure that ensues is one of friendship, sacrifice and love.

  Lisel and Po feels like a classic. It feels older than it is and I was reminded of the feelings I had reading books like The Little Princess, and the Secret Garden by Frances Burnett. The feeling that you know you are reading something timeless, and special. One thing that really stood out for me were certain words that were repeated in the book...the  word ineffable -which means "to incredible to describe" this is a word that Lisel grew up hearing while sharing moments with her father.  Will grew up hearing the word "useless" and it takes helping Lisel for him to realize his true worth.

    Lauren is a wonderful storyteller, gifted with ability to weave such beautiful words together. The illustrations and cover fit the tone and mood of the story.There is a lot of emotion between the lines of the story and I'm so grateful that Lauren shared it with us. Lisel and Po has appeal for girls and boys and would be a great choice for a read-aloud in a middle grade class or to share at home. Highly recommended.

Everything We Ever Wanted by Sara Shepard

Everything We Ever Wanted by Sara Shepard

Published by Harper Collins October 11th 2011

352 Pages

Reviewed from ARC provided by the publisher

Summary

How do you choose between your family and your history?

A late-night phone call on a Sunday evening rarely brings good news. So when Sylvie, a recently-widowed mother of two, receives a call from the head teacher of the school she's on the board of, she knows it won't be something she wants to hear. The school was founded by her grandfather, and she's inherited everything he strived to build up - a reputation, a heritage, the school and the grand old family house. And with this inheritance comes responsibility.So when her son Scott is whispered to be involved in a scandal that led to the death of one of the boys he coaches at the school, it throws the family into chaos: Sylvie has to decide between her loyalty to the school that has been part of her family legacy for years and her son who she feels wants nothing to do with her. She starts spying on the dead boy's father, making an unlikely connection.Sara Shepard's compelling new novel tells how hard it can be to really, truly connect to people, how making quick, easy judgments can come back to haunt you, and how the life you always planned for - and always dreamed of - often doesn't always turn out the way you  imagined at all...

    I am a Sara Shepard fan. I really enjoyed the Pretty Little Liars series. Fast paced page turners are frequently the books that I love the most. There are a few "slower-moving" stories that I have relished reading as well. Stories whose plot, character development or language draw me in. Unfortunately, Everything We Ever Wanted just wasn't one of those books.
   The book has a lot of things going for it. Strong character development and an interesting storyline, and I had to finish it to find out what happened. I just wasn't able to connect with the characters. I felt apathetic to their lives and problems.  The one character I cared about was Scott, I wanted to know the role he played (if any) in the boys death. I wanted things to work out for him. When I think more about it I wanted life to work out for Joanna too. I really wanted to love this one, and there were moments when I thought the pace would pick up but overall it fell flat for me.

Teen Book Review: The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater

The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater

Published by Scholastic Press October 18 2011

Hardcover 416 Pages

Reviewed from ARC borrowed from a friend.

Summary

It happens at the start of every November: the Scorpio Races. Riders attempt to keep hold of their water horses long enough to make it to the finish line. Some riders live. Others die.

At age nineteen, Sean Kendrick is the returning champion. He is a young man of few words, and if he has any fears, he keeps them buried deep, where no one else can see them.

Puck Connolly is different. She never meant to ride in the Scorpio Races. But fate hasn’t given her much of a chance. So she enters the competition — the first girl ever to do so. She is in no way prepared for what is going to happen.

Maggie Steifvater posted an entry in her livejournal a few weeks ago that completely moved me. It was about one of the things she hoped readers would takeaway from her books. "Be the Hero in Your Own Life" I printed it out and posted it on my bulletin board in a place where I could see it everyday. 

http://m-stiefvater.livejournal.com/212810.html

   While I was reading The Scorpio Races, those words repeated over and over through the characters of Sean and Puck. Both enter the races for seemingly different reasons, but really both are entering to win their freedom. I loved Sean Kendrick, his rough exterior masking his love for Corr. Puck (Kate) was my favourite. Strong, courageous, she fought to save herself and her brothers. Water Horse Mythology was new to me, but I found the thought of these powerful and ruthless animals terrifying and fascinating.

   The writing was incredible. There is a depth, tone and style to Maggie's writing that stands out, and I think I could pick out her writing anywhere. Vivid and dark she gets to the heart of the matter often pulling out my heart in the process. But her words are  beautiful and I felt like I was riding along side Dove and Puck smelling the salt in the air and having the wind rip through me.  Highly recommended.

Dear Bully

Dear Bully Edited by Megan Kelley Hall and Carrie Jones

Published by Harper Teen September 1st 2011

ARC provided by the Publisher

Summary

You are not alone

Discover how Lauren Kate transformed the feeling of that one mean girl getting under her skin into her first novel, how Lauren Oliver learned to celebrate ambiguity in her classmates and in herself, and how R.L. Stine turned being the “funny guy” into the best defense against the bullies in his class.

Today’s top authors for teens come together to share their stories about bullying—as silent observers on the sidelines of high school, as victims, and as perpetrators—in a collection at turns moving and self-effacing, but always deeply personal.

     I would never dream of reviewing a book like this because the stories contained within are the personal stories of the author. It wouldn't be possible to review their experiences. I will however say how important a book like this is, how scary the statistics are and how sad it made me to read and remember the cruelty of  others. This book needs to be on the bookshelves of every home with a school-ager, tween or teen. In every school classroom, in every school library and in every public one too. It should be required reading for every teacher and school Principal. It needs to be accessible to everyone because the message that  "you are not alone" is such an important one.

My story: (this is me being brave and personal-because the authors are inspiring)

   I can tell you that when I was in high-school I felt like the "most" alone person in the world.  In between grade 8 and grade 9 was the summer that really started it all. I hung out with my best friends everyday and every evening. We partied, had sleepovers, and watched endless amounts of horror movies. In August of that summer my family took a vacation- I was gone 4 days. That's it. 4 flipping days. And I came back to a complete life change. My friends no longer spoke to me. I had no idea why, I never did find out because they never said. I got the silent treatment, and when they weren't being silent they were calling my house and saying horrible things, and sometimes evening threatening me. When I told my mom she said "they are not your friends then" but they were, they had been and I couldn't for the life of me figure out what had happened. 

  Of course this made starting high-school in the fall terrifying. I switched schools. I went to a school where I thought no one would know me. I sat alone at lunch, and then I skipped school to avoid sitting alone at lunch and then somehow I became a target there as well. I was spit on, shoved, kicked, threatened, held down while a boy did something awful. So I switched schools again- that was my mom's answer- switching schools- I switched 6 times. I never went to Prom or graduated High school (I did much later by doing equivalency exams) I hated myself, and spent a lot of my time wishing I could just disappear. I still have trouble trusting people, and I always have this fear when I go away that when I get back people I love won't be there in the way they were before. I'm not sure that I will ever get over that. But now as an adult I have friends who are there for me, a husband that I'm madly in love with, a son who lights up my life everyday and a job where I can support and encourage kids, adults and teens. Maybe I wouldn't have that if my life as a teen would have been different?
I wish there had been a Dear Bully book 14 years ago.

Highly recommended.

The Night Circus

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

Published by Double Day September 13th 2011

387 pages

Reviewed from ARC-borrowed from friend

Summary:

The circus arrives without warning. No announcements precede it. It is simply there, when yesterday it was not. Within the black-and-white striped canvas tents is an utterly unique experience full of breathtaking amazements. It is called Le Cirque des Rêves, and it is only open at night.

But behind the scenes, a fierce competition is underway—a duel between two young magicians, Celia and Marco, who have been trained since childhood expressly for this purpose by their mercurial instructors. Unbeknownst to them, this is a game in which only one can be left standing, and the circus is but the stage for a remarkable battle of imagination and will. Despite themselves, however, Celia and Marco tumble headfirst into love—a deep, magical love that makes the lights flicker and the room grow warm whenever they so much as brush hands.
True love or not, the game must play out, and the fates of everyone involved, from the cast of extraordinary circus per­formers to the patrons, hang in the balance, suspended as precariously as the daring acrobats overhead. Written in rich, seductive prose, this spell-casting novel is a feast for the senses and the heart.

How do I even begin sharing my thoughts on this book? This intricately woven story has completely swept me away. The story moves back and forth through time, with many people & pieces and yet they all fit together perfectly. At the heart of it, is the story of love and sacrifice, believing in the unimaginable possibilities the world has to offer. The author's writing has a depth that encaptured all my senses- I was truly transported into The Night Circus and when I had to stop reading because my "real" life interrupted, like the patrons in the book, I rushed to go back as soon as possible. I long for sweet carmel apples, and chocolate mice, a red scarf and a silver card that gives me unlimited admission. I wish this Circus was real. This is not a book I will soon forget, and I hope the feeling that came over me as I finished the final line of the story, will stay with me, I'll hold on to it as long as I can. Highly Recommended -One of my favourites....ever.

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin

Published by Simon & Schuster Sept 27 2011

464 Pages

Reviewed from ARC

Summary

Mara Dyer doesn't think life can get any stranger than waking up in a hospital with no memory

of how she got there.

It can.

She believes there must be more to the accident she can't remember that killed her friends and left her mysteriously unharmed.

There is.

She doesn't believe that after everything she's been through, she can fall in love.

She's wrong.

I had no idea what I was getting into when I picked this one up. I love how vague the summary was- I usually avoid reading entire summaries especially with debut authors as I find too much is given away...not in this case.
  Suspenseful, dark and sometimes creepy I was completely hooked. It was unpredictable and though I had glimmers of where I thought the story was headed, I'd turn the page and something completely unexpected would happen. I love when that happens I want to be surprised when I read and there were a few times where I know my jaw actually dropped open.
I desperately wanted to know what happened to Mara, and her friends. I needed answers and so I found myself racing through the book (which means I'll have to read it again as I probably missed a few details). Noah Shaw was a great *love interest* for Mara, and though there were times that I had intense anger towards him I mostly sighed out loud when I read I about him.  I do have to say . .. holy cliff hanger ending. I can't wait for the next one- Michelle write fast please.

 

Forgotten By Cat Patrick

Forgotten by Cat Patrick

Published by Little Brown for Young Readers

June 2011

288 Pages Hard Cover

Reviewed from Library Copy

Summary:

Each night when 16 year-old London Lane goes to sleep, her whole world disappears. In the morning, all that's left is a note telling her about a day she can't remember. The whole scenario doesn't exactly make high school or dating that hot guy whose name she can't seem to recall any easier. But when London starts experiencing disturbing visions she can't make sense of, she realizes it's time to learn a little more about the past she keeps forgetting-before it destroys her future.

Part psychological drama, part romance, and part mystery, this thought-provoking novel will inspire readers to consider the what-if's in their own lives and recognize the power they have to control their destinies.
 

Favourite Quote:

  "Funny how possibility can lift you. Funny how reality can slam you down"

 

  I have been in a reading slump for just over 2 weeks, everything I picked up, I put back down. Thank goodness for Cat Patrick and Forgotten because it was the book that pulled me from the depths of unsatisfied reading. This one is difficult to review because I don't want to give too much away. So much of the book was surprising and I'd hate to ruin it for anyone.

  London ( I love that name) forgets everything about herself every morning at 4:33am and no one knows why. Inexplicably though she's able to see the future and knows what will/ or could happen to herself and those she loves. A recurring nightmare prompts London to try and solve the mystery of her past for fear that the nightmare is actually a vision from the future. The other characters in the book were understanding and supportive of London (well those that knew of her condition) and even though she forgot him everyday Luke was there for her.

  I loved the premise of the book, I was reminded of scenes from the movie 50 First Dates with Drew Barrymore where she sits across from those who know and love her and doesn't recognize them.
  Our identities  lie in our memories, and I can't imagine knowing you'll lose that every day. A strong debut from this new author. Recommended.

Fury by Elizabeth Miles

Fury by Elizabeth Miles

Published by Simon Pulse August 30 2011

352 Pages

Reviewed from ARC provided by the publisher

Summary

The first book in a paranormal teen trilogy featuring three beautiful, mysterious girls

wreaking havoc on a small New England town.

Sometimes sorry isn't enough....
It’s winter break in Ascension, Maine. The snow is falling and everything looks pristine and peaceful. But not all is as it seems...
Between cozy traditions and parties with her friends, Emily loves the holidays. And this year’s even better--the guy she’s been into for months is finally noticing her. But Em knows if she starts things with him, there’s no turning back. Because his girlfriend is Em’s best friend.
On the other side of town, Chase is having problems of his own. The stress of his home life is starting to take its toll, and his social life is unraveling. But that’s nothing compared to what’s really haunting him. Chase has done something cruel...something the perfect guy he pretends to be would never do. And it’s only a matter of time before he’s exposed.
In Ascension, mistakes can be deadly. And three girls—three beautiful, mysterious girls—are here to choose who will pay.
Em and Chase have been chosen.

  Aside from the gorgeous cover, it was the stories of Em and Chase that drew me in. I loved the paced unfolding of their stories and the build up to the end. I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. This was an introduction to the mythology of "The Furies" for me. I had never heard of them before, but as soon as I finished reading, I was online learning about them. Imagine having made a horrible mistake, knowing what you've done was wrong and yet having to pay a terrible price. "Eye for an Eye" is what came to mind.
   It can be difficult to relate to characters like Emily and Chase because their actions are unlikeable but that's exactly why I liked them. They were flawed and I related to them better because of it.
   We all make mistakes (some bigger than others). Em & Chase made a couple of huge ones and in the process hurt those around them. I certainly have been burned by others too, and though a part of me would love to see "what goes around come around" come true, there's a larger part of me that realizes that in the long run that doesn't fix or make anything feel better. Thank goodness the Furies are fiction though or I think we'd all be in a heap of trouble. Great Paranormal read from this Debut Author-I'm looking forward to the next. Recommended.
   
I was fortunate to be able to ask the author a few questions:


My Q&A with Elizabeth Miles

     1.    What inspired you to write about the Furies?

I always had an interest in YA literature - that, combined with a longstanding fascination with mythology and folklore, a love-hate relationship with the horror genre, and my personal interest in the questions of mistakes and forgiveness, led to the Fury series.

2.    Is there anything you believe someone could do that would be unforgivable? What does forgiveness mean to you?

What great questions. Hurting the people I love is a pretty non-negotiable in terms of things I won't forgive. As for what forgiveness means... It means really absolving or feeling absolved of feelings of guilt. If those feelings linger, true forgiveness hasn't been achieved.

3.    There is something special about attending an author's event and getting a book signed. If you could go to any author event who would it be and why? What's a question you would ask them?

I would love to meet Stephen King (a fellow Mainer) in person! I would ask him the classic question - Where do you get all your ideas!?! How do you maintain such high levels of productivity!?!

4.    Which character did you relate to most while writing?

While writing Fury, I really connected with Em. For better or for worse, I understand the pull of doing something that you know is wrong because it feels so good

5.    How did you celebrate when you found out your book was going to be published? What's the most exciting thing that has happened since?

I definitely drank some champagne! The past year has brought such a series of amazing developments that it's hard to choose one highlight. But meeting 60 YA bloggers at a Simon and Schuster event during BEA was definitely one of the most fulfilling moments

6.    Anything you'd like your readers to know? Upcoming events? Are you doing a Book tour in Canada?

 I'll be updating my blog (elizabethmilesbooks.com) with news about my upcoming appearances. I REALLY hope to get to Canada!!

I am so thrilled that  I am a part of this blog tour!

The "Playlist" for Fury:

1) "Cabaret" -- Me First and the Gimme Gimmes
2) "Slow Vein" -- Cult Maze
3) "Disturbia" -- Rihanna
4) "Walking With a Ghost" -- Tegan and Sara
5) "Crane Your Neck" -- Lady Lamb the Beekeeper
6) "The Suburbs" -- Arcade Fire
7) "I'm With You" -- Avril Lavigne
8) "Next Girl" -- The Black Keys
9) "Mary's Song (Oh My My My)" -- Taylor Swift
10) "After the Storm" -- Mumford and Sons
11) "What Goes Around Comes Around" -- Justin Timberlake

You can find out more about Elizabeth and Fury here - http://www.elizabethmilesbooks.com/ http://www.furybooks.com/

Withering Tights



Withering Tights by Louise Rennison

Published by HarperCollins July 2011

Hardcover 351 pages

Reviewed from Library Copy

Summary

Hilarious new series from Queen of Teen – laugh your tights off at the (VERY) amateur dramatic antics of Talullah and her bonkers mates. Boys, snogging and bad acting guaranteed!

Picture the scene: Dother Hall performing arts college somewhere Up North, surrounded by rolling dales, bearded cheesemaking villagers (male and female) and wildlife of the squirrely-type. On the whole, it’s not quite the showbiz experience Tallulah was expecting… but once her mates turn up and they start their ‘FAME! I’m gonna liiiiive foreeeeeever, I’m gonna fill my tiiiiights’ summer course things are bound to perk up. Especially when the boys arrive. (When DO the boys arrive?) Six weeks of parent-free freedom. BOY freedom. Freedom of expression... cos it’s

the THEATRE dahling, theatre!!

I was so thrilled when I first heard about this book. Louise Rennison's Georgia Nicholson series had me laughing out loud, and this one did the same. This author knows how to write humour and thank god she puts a glossary in the back for all of us non-brit readers.

  Fun, light and thoroughly enjoyable, exactly what I needed after all the heavy dystopians I've been reading. That's not to say that Withering Tights didn't have substance, Talluah was an over the top lovable character but she had to deal with all the insecurities and self doubts teen-age girls (and adult women for that matter) contend with on a daily basis. I wish there had been a Summer Performing Arts School when I was teen. Especially with a boys school next door! :) I can't wait for more Tallulah adventures. Recommended.

You can find out more about Louise Rennison here: http://witheringtights.com/
And if you haven't read "Angus, Thongs and Full-Frontal Snogging" go now and get it.......

The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter

The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter

Published April 2011 by Harlequin Teen

Reviewed from library copy

Summary

It's always been just Kate and her mom—and her mother is dying. Her last wish? To move back to her childhood home. So Kate's going to start at a new school with no friends, no other family and the fear her mother won't live past the fall.

Then she meets Henry. Dark. Tortured. And mesmerizing. He claims to be Hades, god of the Underworld—and if she accepts his bargain, he'll keep her mother alive while Kate tries to pass seven tests.

Kate is sure he's crazy—until she sees him bring a girl back from the dead. Now saving her mother seems crazily possible. If she succeeds, she'll become Henry's future bride, and a goddess.

    I think we may be seeing a growing trend of "mythology" in ya in the next year or so. The last 4 books I've read have had this common thread, and I'm loving it. What's great about Mythology is I find it makes me want to know more, I've taken out books on the subject recently just because I've enjoyed reading about them so much.
   The Goddess Test is a quick read. I couldn't put it down and I connected with Kate right away. Maybe because I understood how she was feeling and could relate to her desperation to save her mother. I was surprised at how quickly we learned that Henry was Hades. There wasn't a lot of build up to this, just a chapter or so, and I actually felt there could have been more to the story leading up to it, I felt like a few parts were skipped over.
   I did like how the relationship between Henry and Kate grew over time, and developed from friendship. All in all, it was a great page turner and I'll definitely be reading the next one.

Candor by Pam Bachorz

Candor by Pam Bachorz

Hardcover, 256 pages

Published September 22nd 2009 by EgmontUSA

Reviewed from Library Copy

Summary:

In the model community of Candor, Florida, every teen wants to be like Oscar Banks. The son of the town''s founder, Oscar earns straight As, is student-body president, and is in demand
for every club and cause.
But Oscar has a secret. He knows that parents bring their teens to Candor to make them respectful, compliant-perfect-through subliminal Messages that carefully correct and control their behavior. And Oscar'' s built a business sabotaging his father''s scheme with Messages of his own, getting his clients out before they''re turned. After all, who would ever suspect the perfect Oscar Banks?
Then he meets Nia, the girl he can''t stand to see changed. Saving Nia means losing her forever.  in Candor, Oscar risks exposure . . . and more

    This was an unnerving read. Think Stepford Wives but with teens. As much as perfection is a social standard that we are often pushed to strive for, this book depicts why forcing it, is not a good idea. I had trouble connecting with Oscar initially- I think because I often read books where the main characters are girls. The male voice was a bit more challenging to relate to. When Nia arrived in Candor and started seeing Oscar- that was when the story picked up for me.

   Oscar's father, was awful. I just hated him and I desperately wanted him to see the damage he was doing to those families and children around him. I was just as angry with his mom for abandoning him in such a place. I think that well developed characters have the power to evoke strong emotions in the reader and I would say I felt very strongly about nearly all the characters in this story.

  The book did drag a bit in parts for me, as I grew frustrated with the characters acceptance of the status-quo, but the ending was definitely creepy......

Worth Reading.

Die for Me by Amy Plum

So I'm a bit behind on the challenge- today was packed full of errands etc and it's now past 24 hours later and I only have finished 1 book- but I have to say it was a really good one! I'm hoping to make up some time tonight. I've read for 5 hours in total.....

Die for Me by Amy Plum

Published May 10 2011 by HarperTeen

352 Pages

Reviewed from Arc (but it's one I'll still buy for my shelves)

Summary from GoodReads

In the City of Lights, two star-crossed lovers battle a fate that is destined to tear them

 apart again and again for eternity.

When Kate Mercier's parents die in a tragic car accident, she leaves her life--and memories--behind to live with her grandparents in Paris. For Kate, the only way to survive her pain is escaping into the world of books and Parisian art. Until she meets Vincent.

Mysterious, charming, and devastatingly handsome, Vincent threatens to melt the ice around Kate's guarded heart with just his smile. But Vincent is full of secrets and Kate soon realizes that if she follows her heart, she may never be safe again.

Die for Me has had mixed reviews, but I have to say I loved this one. I loved the setting in Paris, I loved the writing style, I loved the main character Kate and I loved the love-interest Vincent-Boy did I love Vincent(swooning)
This book is escapism at it's best. I know that readers have said that it echoes many themes & elements from Stephenie Meyer's Twilight, and I saw the similarities in story line, and even character development but I'm totally ok with it. Twilight was a wonderful book to escape the world in and so is Die for Me.
It will be interesting to see where the author goes in the next book, but I for one can not wait!
Definitely recommended.
 
Next book- Across the Universe
 

Where Things Come Back by John Corey Whaley

Where Things Come Back by John Corey Whaley

Published by Atheneum (Simon & Schuster)May 2001

228 pages

Reviewed from ARC provided by the publisher.

Summary from Goodreads

Just when seventeen-year-old Cullen Witter thinks he understands everything about his small and painfully dull Arkansas town, it all disappears. . . .

In the summer before Cullen's senior year, a nominally-depressed birdwatcher named John Barling thinks he spots a species of woodpecker thought to be extinct since the 1940s in Lily, Arkansas. His rediscovery of the so-called Lazarus Woodpecker sparks a flurry of press and woodpecker-mania. Soon all the kids are getting woodpecker haircuts and everyone's eating "Lazarus burgers." But as absurd as the town's carnival atmosphere has become, nothing is more startling than the realization that Cullen’s sensitive, gifted fifteen-year-old brother Gabriel has suddenly and inexplicably disappeared.
While Cullen navigates his way through a summer of finding and losing love, holding his fragile family together, and muddling his way into adulthood, a young missionary in Africa, who has lost his faith, is searching for any semblance of meaning wherever he can find it. As distant as the two stories seem at the start, they are thoughtfully woven ever closer together and through masterful plotting, brought face to face in a surprising and harrowing climax.
Complex but truly extraordinary, tinged with melancholy and regret, comedy and absurdity, this novel finds wonder in the ordinary and emerges as ultimately hopeful. It's about a lot more than what Cullen calls, “that damn bird.” It’s about the dream of second chances.

    It took me a while to get through this one. It's not a plot driven book like many YA are, though I have to say the last few chapters had me holding my breath. This story is more about the characters and I find I read books like this much more slowly.
   Cullen is a genuine and likable character, his journal of Book Titles was hilarious. I adored his best friend Lucas and admired his loyalty to Cullen. The story seemed real. Like I was there beside him watching him go through the motions of daily life after his brothers disappearance. His guilt, his fear, his pain- all of it.
  But it's not just Cullen's story. There's another story weaving in and out and you are given just subtle glimpses of the how stories intertwine as you read along. The author does an absolutely fantastic job of the connecting the lives of all the characters in the book and that had me thinking about the impact (or lack of impact) I might make in the lives of people I have known, or are yet to know. Where Things Come Back is a powerful read. One that will leave you appreciating what you have and thinking about what you can do for others. Highly recommended.

Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr

Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr

Published by HarperTeen 2007

328 pages

Reviewed from library copy

Summary from goodreads

All teenagers have problems, but few of them can match those of Aislinn, who has the power to see faeries. Quite understandably, she wishes that she could share her friends' obliviousness and tries hard to avoid these invisible intruders. But one faery in particular refuses to leave her alone. Keenan the Summer King is convinced beyond all reasoning that Aislinn is the queen he has been seeking for nine centuries. What's a 21st-century girl to do when she's stalked by a suitor nobody else can see?

   I know that many bloggers have already read this one, and I don't know what took me so long to pick it up. For those that haven't read Wicked Lovely, prepare yourselves as I'm about to gush.
    I loved the story line, even though I have read a number of Faery books, I though Marr's approach was refreshing. I was completely transported and totally could have stayed there.
    The chemistry between Seth and Ash was incredibly well written, it was intense and I think my heart beat faster any time I saw Seth's name in print.(still does)
    The book has everything going for it. An amazing lead character, swoon worthy love interest, evil to overcome, hearts to change, challenges to meet and it's all balanced so well. Highly Recommended.