In My Mailbox (30)

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In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. It's a great way to showcase the books you've gotten over the week, whether they are bought, borrowed or free.

Review
Lottie Biggs is (Not) Tragic by Hayley Long
Already read this! I loved it, it so funny and enjoyable to read!
Shimmer by Alyson Noel
Love the cover (:
--
Gifted
So Shelly by Ty Roth
This sounds so good and oh I got it signed too! How frickin awesome :D
Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead
One of my favourite series! Thank you! Emilie @ Emilie Book World

(Clcik to enlarge)
And, this is So Shelly signed!!! :D

What's in your mailbox?

Radiance by Alyson Noel

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Radiance
by Alyson Noel

Pages: 183
Release Date: February 4th 2011
Publisher: Macmillan Children Books
Series: Riley Bloom #1
Other books in series: Shimmer
Buy the Book: Amazon UK | Amazon US



Riley has crossed the bridge into the afterlife—a place called Here, where time is always Now. She has picked up life where she left off when she was alive, living with her parents and dog in a nice house in a nice neighborhood. When she’s summoned before The Council, she learns that the afterlife isn’t just an eternity of leisure. She’s been assigned a job, Soul Catcher, and a teacher, Bodhi, a possibly cute, seemingly nerdy boy who’s definitely hiding something. They return to earth together for Riley’s first assignment, a Radiant Boy who’s been haunting a castle in England for centuries. Many Soul Catchers have tried to get him to cross the bridge and failed. But all of that was before he met Riley . . .
My Thoughts
While reading Radiance I realised that this wasn't a book that was for me. I think it's mainly because there wasn't any romance. However, Even though it just didn't appeal to me, the story overall was pretty great. I'll say it's mainly aimed at younger teens, considering the writing style.

However, as I've read the Evermore series I already had a connection to Riley. I absolutely adore her. I instantly loved her personality, character and simply everything about her. And, I really love the way she acts and handles different situations. It's quite awesome.

I think that Radiance would many suit younger teens and definitely children above 11. It seems like their kind of book as its full of young action and adventure. Because Riley is only around 13-14 years old the book would be in her perspective and the way she see's things. A great plot with great characters. A definite recommendation to younger teens.

Pretty Twisted by Gina Baxill

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Pretty Twisted
by Gina Baxill

Pages: 275
Release Date: May 6th 2011
Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books
Buy the Book: Amazon UK | Amazon US



Ros has a secret crush on Jonathan. Jonathan is massively hung up on Freya (even after she dumps him). And Freya? Well, Freya is a beautiful enigma. Even more so when she goes missing without a trace..."Pretty Twisted" is narrated in alternating chapters by Jonathan (16) and Ros (14) who meet online at a time when things are going sour for Jonathan. His stunning girlfriend, Freya, is away at college and they are growing apart - consequently, he is struggling with his own sense of identity. Ros is also experiencing some problems - one of her friends is dating an older man whose strange behaviour gives Ros cause for concern. Meanwhile, the local news has been reporting some kidnappings of teenage girls. So when Freya dumps Jonathan, then seems to disappear off the face of the earth, he enlists Ros' (somewhat reluctant) help in tracking down the girl he still loves. With danger lurking around every corner, their stories become inextricably linked in a way nobody could have predicted...



My Thoughts
I knew that I'll really like Pretty Twisted as soon I read the synopsis. It says it all. A girl goes missing and no one knows a thing about it. And so people go and try and find her. It' a mystery sort of book. Mysteries I love.

Pretty Twisted is divided between a girl, Ros and a guy, Jono. I loved Jono instantly. One reason? His geekyness! He's so cute and that his girlfriend, well ex-girlfriend, Freya transformed him. I was more than glad. He really sounded hot and sophisticated too. Ros is like one of those typical teenagers. She struggles through her friendships and than confides in another through the Internet on MyPlace- Jono.

Jono and Ros have their share of problems. I love how they confide in each other and how they be for one another. Especially, when Freya goes missing they both play a key role in getting her back. Though, even though Freya was a central part of the plot, I don't think we got to see much of her character.

Nevertheless, I really really loved this book. One tiny thing though, I'm not a big fan of the way things ended with Jono and Ros. Why couldn't- ...nope I'm not giving anything away. I'm sure it's pretty obvious though!Pretty Twisted is a hell of a book. Fast paced, engaging and pretty unpredictable, I found this to be a truly gripping read.

Frostbite by Richelle Mead

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Frostbite
by Richelle Mead

Pages: 327
Release Date: October 1st 2009
Publisher: Puffin
Series: Vampire Academy
Other books in series: Vampire Academy, Shadow Kiss, Blood Promise, Spirit Bound & Last Sacrifice
Buy the Book: Amazon UK | Amazon US

Rose loves Dimitri, Dimitri might love Tasha, and Mason would die to be with Rose…
It's winter break at St. Vladimir's, but Rose is feeling anything but festive. A massive Strigoi attack has put the school on high alert, and now the Academy's crawling with Guardians—including Rose's hard-hitting mother, Janine Hathaway. And if hand-to-hand combat with her mom wasn't bad enough, Rose's tutor Dimitri has his eye on someone else, her friend Mason's got a huge crush on her, and Rose keeps getting stuck in Lissa's head while she's making out with her boyfriend, Christian! The Strigoi are closing in, and the Academy's not taking any risks… This year, St. Vlad's annual holiday ski trip is mandatory.
But the glittering winter landscape and the posh Idaho resort only create the illusion of safety. When threefriends run away in an offensive move against the deadly Strigoi, Rose must join forces with Christian to rescue them. But heroism rarely comes without a price…

My Thoughts
In this second addition to the Vampire Academy series, everything just got even hotter. I was not disappointed at all. Mead took everything to a whole new level. I loved every minute of it. It was just that awesome.

Rose is a true heroine. At first her attitude was very snarky but as the book went on Rose’s character developed making her a completely different girl. She turned out to be more serious and real bad ass. With her training, it finally paid off as she faced off some of her own troubles, battling evil whilst bravely protecting her friends.

More action and suspense was enclosed in the plot. It was much more fast paced and downright enthralling. Probably because of all the Strigoi. They played a big part in destruction and anticipation. It was frustrating yet great reading more about them.

Though, nothing is better than reading about Dimitri. So down to earth, caring and hot I simply LOVE him! Obviously, Rose does too but they have their share of problems. Like, come on already! Oh and that’s where Adrian comes in. Yeah. I don’t really like him.

This was one heck of a rollercoaster. Seriously, I just really loved it. Oh and I really love Mason. He is so not going forgotten. OK! Cannot wait to read Shadow Kiss :D

Waiting on Wednesday (29)

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Circle of Fire
by Michelle Zink

Pages: 352
Release Date: August 1st 2011
Publisher: Little Brown and Company
Buy the Book: Amazon



With time dwindling but her will to end the Prophecy stronger than ever, Lia sets out on a journey to find the remaining keys, locate the missing pages of the Prophecy, and convince her sister Alice to help--or risk her life trying. Lia has her beloved Dimitri by her side, but Alice has James, the man who once loved her sister--and maybe still does. James doesn't know the truth about either sister, or the prophecy that divides them. And Alice intends to keep it that way.

There are some secrets sisters aren't meant to share. Because when they do, it destroys them. This stunning conclusion to Michelle Zink's Prophecy of the Sisters trilogy will make saying good-bye bittersweet for readers


I haven't read the other two books in this series, but after reading this synopsis, I may just have to! It's a great bonus that this book is going to be released next week so then I won't have to wait long! Great cover too :)

What are you waiting for?
Waiting on Wednesday is a meme hosted by Breaking the Spine

High Stakes by Meg Cabot

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High Stakes
by Meg Cabot

Pages: 224
Release Date: November 5th 2004
Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books
Series: The Mediator #2
Other books in series: Love you to Death, Mean Spirits, Young Blood, Grave Doubts & Heaven Sent
Buy the Book: Amazon



Everything is going great for Suze. Her new life in California is a whirlwind of parties and excellent hair days. Tad Beaumont, the hottest boy in town, has even asked Suze out on her very first date. Suze is so excited that she's willing to ignore her misgivings about Tad ... particularly the fact that he's not Jesse, whose ghostly status—not to mention apparent disinterest in her—make him unattainable.
What Suze can't ignore, however, is the ghost of a murdered woman whose death seems directly connected to dark secrets hidden in none other than Tad Beaumont's past


My Thoughts
High Stakes, (US title as Ninth Key) was just as good as the previous book in the series, Love you to Death, I just couldn't stop reading. In this one, there's murder and mystery. My favourite! Suze has to figure out if a guy, Tad Beaumont (Red) is responsible for a particular murder.

It was great going through the events of Suze and Tad. I wanted to know what was going to happen, there was much suspense and action. I've got to say, it was pretty hilarious when he thought that he was a vampire! And there are definitely more LOL moments!

Though, I was more drawn to the scenes with Suze and Jessie. You know Jessie, the hot ghost that lives in Suze's bedroom. I LOVE him! I just wanted more of them and less of Tad! Their relationship is very personal even though they've just knew each other for around a month. But come on Jesse, kiss her already!

I really love this book! I have no doubt that I'm going to love all the other books that follow. An enjoyable and funny read :)

My Soul to Take by Rachel Vincent

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My Soul to Take
by Rachel Vincent

Pages: 368
Release Date: January 1st 2011
Publisher: Mira Books
Series: The Soul Screamers #1
Other books in series: My Soul to Save
Buy the book: Amazon UK | Amazon US




She doesn't see dead people, but…
She senses when someone near her is about to die. And when that happens, a force beyond her control compels her to scream bloody murder. Literally.

Kaylee just wants to enjoy having caught the attention of the hottest guy in school. But a normal date is hard to come by when Nash seems to know more about her need to scream than she does. And when classmates start dropping dead for no apparent reason, only Kaylee knows who'll be next…


My Thoughts
I heard a lot of good things about THE SOUL SCREAMER series, so when I received My Soul to Take for review, I was more than glad to read it. For one, look at the cover! I’ve got to say that the UK cover is so much better than the US one. Another clear selling point, it’s going to look so pretty on my shelf. Besides, the book in question is really good.

I really liked reading it. It was great reading something besides vampires and werewolves for a change. Something different and unique, My Soul to Take is a story about Kaylee, a girl who can sense when someone is going to die. By screaming.

Kaylee is a kiss-ass character. She’s smart and feisty. However, because of her ability, it had landed her in a psychiatric ward and so she will do anything to not to end up there again. She just wants to be a normal teenager. Have a simply worry free life, have fun and go on great dates.

I don’t know about worry free life but she sure does meet someone. Like, the hottest guy from school. Nash.(What a funny and peculiar name). He takes a keen interest in Kaylee and she starts to like him too. Nash is lovable and protective and just so right for Kaylee. Their relationship was a bit fast and abrupt nevertheless I really liked him! However, Kaylee’s worry comes in about what will happen if he discovers her secret.

The story had a well paced and strong plotline. My Soul to Take was definitely interesting and so I can’t wait to read the next book!

A Need for Book News (6)

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A Need for Book News is a weekly feature I thought of doing displaying recent book related news that have been announed during the week! For previous Book News posts, click here.
Take a look at all the awesome bookish things! :D


COVER ALERTS!

The Statistical Probability of love at first sight by Jennifer E. Smith
This UK cover was revealed a copule of days back! I love the cover, the writing and well the book sounds really good too. I can't wait to read it!
Spellbound by Rachel Hawkins
Amazing! The cover really does compliment with the other books in the series which is a great thing. I have to really get reading this series!


OTHER NEWS
So, I'm a mega mega Vampire Academy fan and so when I found out you can read the first chapter of Bloodlines online I was ecstatic. Yes, you heard my right! The First Chapter of Bloodlines by Richelle Mead! Yay :) Okay, so just click on THIS LINK to go and read it.
--

Hunger games movie poster!
OMG! I came across this frickin unbelievably awesome Hunger Games Poster! It's official and It is just so so awesome! I love it and especially because of the beautiful, roaring flames, the symbolic Mockingjay pin, and the quote that perfectly captures the story. It’s all there!


And this is the countdown widget! :O ...come on March 23, 2012!
The poster, the countdown widget, what do you think?

In My Mailbox (29)

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In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. It's a great way to showcase the books you've gotten over the week, whether they are bought, borrowed or free.

Review
(click to enlarge)

Forever by Maggie Stiefvater
OMG! I've read Shiver and Linger and I just can't wait to see how everything ends with Sam and Grace in Forever! :D
The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson
This sounds like a really good read and I've read some great reviews about it
Hunting Lila by Sarah Anderson (UK Proof)
Read it and loved it!
Finding Sky by Jess Sterling
By the cover I thought it'll be another werwolf book, thank god it's not! I've read this one too and I really enjoyed it :)
Eight Keys by Suzanne LaFleur (UK Proof)
This sounds like a great read!
Sister, Missing by Sophie McKenzie (UK proof)
I heard Girl, Missing was really good and I'm hoping this one is too
How the Light gets in by MJ Hyland
I just love the cover for this one!
--
 Library
Entangled by Cat Clarke
Jessie ♥ NYC by Keris Stainton

What's in your mailbox?

First sentence. First paragraph. First Chapter. Does is it matter?

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Discussion time!
We always read books we love all the time and so it is inevitable to come across some we don't like too. But how can we determine whether a book is worth reading. After glaring at the cover, re-reading the synopsis we finally get inside the book.

Now we come to the main part. To the first sentence, first paragraph and then to the first chapter. If these elements are not good enough does it affect your views on the book? Do you continue reading? If the first few things are not up to scratch what are your thoughts?

OR,
does it not matter. Do you continue reading and wait for the book to get gradually better. I know I do. I don't like leaving books unfinished I read a little bit more and then see where it goes. If then still don't like the book I completely don't read it as then it's just a waste of time trying to make yourself like the book when you simply know you would not.

What about when you're reading a book in series? You've read a few books to that series and then your are at one of the books that you just don't like. You've started reading the it and it's not getting to you. Will you continue the series? I know that if it's any series at all I will continue it and just see how it all ends.

Anyways, First sentence. First paragraph. First Chapter. Does is it matter?
What are your thoughts?

City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare

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City of Ashes
by Cassandra Clare

Pages: 411
Release Date: July 7th 2008
Publisher: Walker
Series: The Mortal Instruments #2
Other books in series: City of Bones, City of Glass & City of Fallen Angels
Buy it: Amazon
Add it: Goodreads

Clary Fray just wishes that her life would go back to normal. But what's normal when you're a demon-slaying Shadowhunter, your mother is in a magically induced coma, and you can suddenly see Downworlders like werewolves, vampires, and faeries? If Clary left the world of the Shadowhunters behind, it would mean more time with her best friend, Simon, who's becoming more than a friend. But the Shadowhunting world isn't ready to let her go — especially her handsome, infuriating, newfound brother, Jace. And Clary's only chance to help her mother is to track down rogue Shadowhunter Valentine, who is probably insane, certainly evil — and also her father.
To complicate matters, someone in New York City is murdering Downworlder children. Is Valentine behind the killings — and if he is, what is he trying to do? When the second of the Mortal Instruments, the Soul-Sword, is stolen, the terrifying Inquisitor arrives to investigate and zooms right in on Jace. How can Clary stop Valentine if Jace is willing to betray everything he believes in to help their father?

My Thoughts
I LOVED City of Bones, and so when I got my copy of City of Ashes, you can guess I was utterly thrilled! As much as I liked City of Ashes, it didn't live up to City of Bones. But don't get me wrong, I did still enjoy reading it.

I loved how City of Ashes was fueled with more action and adventure. We see so much more other supernatural beings and meet more new characters. As the story goes on the plot continues to thicken making it so much more exciting and vivid.

There was also a fair share of emotional scenes which I love! This includes the moments between Jace and Clary. Jace and Clary are still the same. Confused and utterly lost they have no idea how to handle their feelings. They are just so meant for each other but obviously they can't do anything about it. Just really gross. How unbelievably irritating!

Simon! I just cannot leave him out. His character is finally more developed so he's just not a main chacracter tag along. Oh and I  love Clary's and Simon's friendship. It's one of the my favourite parts of the book. I'll say that as it their scenes feel really genuine.

Once again, City of Ashes leaves us with more questions making us just really want us to read more. I can't wait to read City of Glass!

Waiting on Wednesday (28)

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Don't Breathe a Word
by Holly Cupala

Pages: -
Release Date: September 20th 2011
Publisher: HarperTeen
Buy the Book: Amazon


Joy Delamere is suffocating...
From asthma, which has nearly claimed her life. From her parents, who will do anything to keep that from happening. From delectably dangerous Asher, who is smothering her from the inside out.
Joy can take his words—tender words, cruel words—until the night they go too far.
Now, Joy will leave everything behind to find the one who has offered his help, a homeless boy called Creed. She will become someone else. She will learn to survive. She will breathe…if only she can get to Creed before it’s too late.
Set against the gritty backdrop of Seattle’s streets and a cast of characters with secrets of their own, Holly Cupala’s powerful new novel explores the subtleties of abuse, the meaning of love, and how far a girl will go to discover her own strength.



I love how the cover kind of says the story and so you already roughly know what it will be about without even having to read the synopsis. And even after reading the synopsis, it just sounds really interesting!

What are you waiting for?
Waiting on Wednesday is hosted by Breaking the Spine

BLOG TOUR: Bryony Pearce Interview

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Bryony Pearce
Bryony Pearce was born in 1976 and has two young children. She completed an English Literature degree at Corpus Christi College Cambridge in 1998 and was a winner of the SCBWI anthology ‘Undiscovered Voices’ in 2008.
--

I've started to have dreams while I'm awake. I remember music I've never heard ... I've got all this extra stuff in my head, but I'm forgetting things from my own life. I feel like I'm being taken over.
Cassie Farrier has always suffered from terrifying nightmares. On a trip to Germany she recognises scenes from her dreams and finds evidence of a sixty year-old massacre. Fearing for her sanity, her family sends Cassie to a retreat where she meets others with symptoms like her own and finds out that she has lived a number of past lives.
However, the Doctor at the retreat is not what she seems. Cassie and the boy she comes to love must escape the Doctor’s influence but can they also escape the misery of their shared past?

--
Describe Angel's Furyin a few sentences  
A teenage girl named Cassie has suffered from nightmares her whole life; events lead her to discover that she has lived before and that all her past lives are being manipulated by a fallen angel bent on destroying mankind.
Angel’s fury is a chilling paranormal psychological thriller romance … it is not easy to classify, but it is unique, gripping and appears to be appealing to both genders and all ages, which is wonderful.

What inspired you to write Angel's Fury?
I’ve always suffered from nightmares, so I guess it makes sense that my first leading lady would suffer from nightmares too.
But Angel’s Fury was very much inspired by a visit to the rock of Gibraltar where I had a strange experience.
Many of my nightmares have the same scenery, a town square, white houses and a clock in the middle. I have no conscious memory of ever having seen such a place and thought I had just made it up somehow. 
Then I went to Gibraltar.

I had lived there as a child (we left when I was seven or eight) and I thought it would be nice to revisit. While I was climbing the Rock I mentioned to the guide that I’d once lived on the RAF base and he pointed behind me and said something like ‘oh, you’ll have lived there then.’ I turned around and there it was – the scenery from my dreams. It was like being smacked between the eyes! I had no memory of that white square but I had retained that memory so clearly in my subconscious that it was being recycled nightly.

That experience really stayed with me and I knew I wanted to make a story out of it.
The scenes when Cassie goes to Germany and recognises scenes from her dreams, are very much inspired by that moment.

I love all the characters! Who's your favourite and why?
Cassie has to be my favourite character, she’s so complex and has lived with me for so long, it was amazing to write her story and bring her through her trials to see her grow and develop as a person and come out the other side.
But I do have to admit a fondness for Pandra – gorgeous, sociopathic, devil-may-care – she was a lot of fun to write.

In Angel's Fury, Cassie speaks German naturally. Why German?
When I realised that Cassie had been reincarnated I asked myself when in history her previous life must have been. For the purposes of the story it had to be the most horrifying historical period I could come up with. There were a number of contenders, but the holocaust of World War II was the obvious answer. Cassie speaks German because in her previous life she lived in Germany in the lead up to the war.
The fact that my in-laws both speak Germany and were able to translate sentences for me was a help too.

Summer is finally here, what books are in your reading pile?
I have a huge reading pile. I’m taking part in the Bookette’s debut author reading challenge, so I have Miriam Halahmy’s Hidden and Caragh O Brien’s Birthmarked to read. I’m also waiting with bated breath for Sara Grant’s Dark Parties, Paula Rawsthorne’s The Truth About Celia Frost, Lauren DeStefano’s Wither and Kate Harrison’s Soul Beach. I also want to read the new Iain M Banks, Gillian Philip’s The Opposite of Amber and I’m very excited about the sequel to Firebrand, Bloodstone also written by Gillian Philip, which should be out in time for my holiday.
--
Links:
Website | Blog | Twitter | Buy the Book

A great big thank you to Bryony for having this interview! The next stop on this blog tour is at Fragments of Life so make sure you go and stop by there tomorrow!
Thanks again Bryony!

Angel's Fury by Bryony Pearce

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Angel's Fury
by Bryony Pearce

Pages: 304
Release Date: July 4th 2011
Publisher: Egmont
Buy the book: Amazon UK | Amazon US
I've started to have dreams while I'm awake. I remember music I've never heard ... I've got all this extra stuff in my head, but I'm forgetting things from my own life. I feel like I'm being taken over.
Cassie Farrier has always suffered from terrifying nightmares. On a trip to Germany she recognises scenes from her dreams and finds evidence of a sixty year-old massacre. Fearing for her sanity, her family sends Cassie to a retreat where she meets others with symptoms like her own and finds out that she has lived a number of past lives.
However, the Doctor at the retreat is not what she seems. Cassie and the boy she comes to love must escape the Doctor’s influence but can they also escape the misery of their shared past?

My Thoughts
As soon as I started reading Angel's Fury I knew that it was a book I would really like. It's a different sort of book and I think that was the main thing that held my interest. It was a combination of genres, a bit of love, thriller, historical and so I really enjoyed reading it!

Cassie, a teenage girl, constantly has these terrible nightmares. As time goes on they get even worse and terrible so she really is desperate for a way for them to stop. But then, one day on a school trip to Germany she realises so many things. Her dreams somehow awaken inside and she discovers that they are in fact scenes from her past lives.

Cassie's emotions go down really deep. As much as the dreams are fascinating she is really frightened and scared. That is when a specialist doctor comes into the picture, called 'The Doctor'. There is no doubt that I despise 'The Doctor', she is just intolerable. Then,  Cassie has to move into this manor in the hope of getting rid of these dreams.

At the manor, she meets Seth and she starts to feel a sort of attraction towards him. Romance isn't a dominant theme in the book but I look forward to reading the moments between them and seeing how their relationship progresses.

I love the ideas behind this book. A great debut from a great British author. It is without doubt an original, and brilliant read. I would definitely recommend this!

A Need for Book News (5)

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A Need for Book News is a weekly feature I thought of doing displaying recent book related news that have been announed during the week! For previous Book News posts, click here.
Take a look at all the awesome bookish things! :D


COVER ALERTS
Perception by Kim Harrington
This is A Clarity novel, I havn't gotten a chance to read it but is very high on my TBR list. I love the cover, it may not be in with Clarity but it has the same kind of grace and well clarity.
A Million Suns by Beth Revis
I have read Across the Universe, I really looooved it and I just cannot wait to read this one too. Just look at that cover! I was awed by... it is really nice!
The Golden Lily by Richelle Mead
WOW. I am a majoy VA fan and when I saw this I instantly fellin love with it! Come one! It so goes with Bloodlines and all that yellow and gold really stands out!
Pandemonium by Lauren Oliver
Another beautiful cover. It lives up to Deliruim definetly. I cannot wait to read this one either, seeing as Delirium was definetly gripping!

UK | US
Can you guess what happened? Yep, the UK publishers decided the change the cover of Bloodlines to fit in with US ones. They're not exactly same, there is a bit of a differnce. Anyways, what can I say! I am so relieved. I really did not like the other cover at at all. I was going to buy the US book after knowing how the UK one looked. It wasn't all bad, but I'm just head over heels about the US one! I'm so so happy ;D


OTHER NEWS

OMG! HARRY POTTER! Yes, I do realise everyone knows that this is the final movie to be made in the series and it just been released but I just have to rave about it! Other than re-reading the books and re-watching the movie, what are we going to do! Well, there is Pottermore but that's in a couple of months. Are you feeling what I'm feeling right now?

BLOG TOURS


BLOG TOURBLOG TOUR

Awesome news this week! Right?

In My Mailbox (28)

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In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. It's a great way to showcase the books you've gotten over the week, whether they are bought, borrowed or free.
(Click to enlarge)

Review
Forbidden by Jana Oliver
I've read Forsaken, the first book in Demon Trappers series so I cannot wait to get into this book!
Love, Inc by Yvonne Collins and Sandy Rideout
Finished this one yesterday! I just loved it :)
Stealing Pheonix by Joss Sterling (UK proof)
I've read Finding Sky (got that for review this week  but forgot to add it in the picture :S) a few days back and it was just awesome so I can't wait to read this!
He's so not worth it by kieran scott
It sounds like a great summer read, I've waiting ages to read this!
Nocturne by Christine Johnson
Another werewolf book I think. Looks pretty interesting.
Invisible Fiends by Barry hutchison
My Gum by Andy Stanton
Scary covers for both books. They're not YA books but sound really good :)
Delirium by Lauren Oliver
I've got Delirium in hardback, I prefer that rather than the paperback. It's still pretty though
Everlasting by Alyson Noel
So relieved to get this book. It was about time the series came to an end. I've  read this one too
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Gifted
Shadowkiss by Richelle Mead
A big thank you to Cait @ The Cait Files, I've got the 3rd and last book in the series and I'm getting the first one too. Anyone want to fill in the gaps? :L
A great mailbox this week. I forgot to include two other books I got for review but you'll see them next week instead! What did you get in your mailbox?

The Iron Daughter by Julie Kagawa

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The Iron Daughter
 by Julie Kagawa

Pages: 384
Release Date: April 15th 2011
Publisher: MIRA Books
Series: The Iron Fey #2
Other books in series: The Iron King, The Iron Queen & The Iron Knight
Buy the Book: Amazon UK | Amazon US


Half Summer faery princess, half human, Meghan has never fit in anywhere. Deserted by the Winter prince she thought loved her, she is prisoner to the Winter faery queen. As war looms between Summer and Winter, Meghan knows that the real danger comes from the Iron fey—ironbound faeries that only she and her absent prince have seen. But no one believes her.
Worse, Meghan's own fey powers have been cut off. She's stuck in Faery with only her wits for help. Trusting anyone would be foolish. Trusting a seeming traitor could be deadly. But even as she grows a backbone of iron, Meghan can't help but hear the whispers of longing in her all-too-human heart.
My Thoughts
I loved The Iron King. And there’s no doubt that I loved The Iron Daughter just as much. As pretty as the cover, this book shimmers with utter brilliance.

The Iron Daughter starts off with Megan as prisoner to the Winter Faery. I love her patience and how caring she is. She’s brave too. The perfect heroine. Though not so perfect when it comes to Ash, the Winter prince. The man believed to have betrayed her love.

I love Ash. I love his iciness. I love it when he gets really serious and love how he loves Megan. But he sure hides it well seeing as Megan believes otherwise. There’s such big issues but can’t they see that they’re a great match.

The story itself is very magical. There’s more trouble as Megan senses danger. It’s up to her then to save Faery seeing as no one else believes her. The Iron Daughter continues to get more complicated yet all the more beautiful.

Kagawa has done it again! It’s very certain I will continue this series especially to see how everything will enfold with Ash and Megan The Iron Queen, here I come!

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

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Catching Fire
by Suzanne Collins

Pages: 472
Release Date: September 7th 2009
Publisher: Scholastic
Series: The Hunger Games #2
Other books in series: The Hunger Games & Mocking Jay
Buy the Book: Amazon UK | Amazon US


Katniss Everdeen and Peeta Mellark won the annual competition described in Hunger Games, but the aftermath leaves these victors with no sense of triumph. Instead, they have become the poster boys for a rebellion that they never planned to lead. That new, unwanted status puts them in the bull's-eye for merciless revenge by The Capitol


My Thoughts
Catching Fire is without doubt an unforgettable ride. It’s even better and bigger than I had hoped it too be. It’s fiery, malevolent and exasperatingly amazing! Collins has sure got a captivating writing style. I was utterly hooked.

Katniss Everdeen. The best heroine ever. I love her! What I love the most is that we get to see a whole new side to her. Her hurt, worry and dismay when she finds out her loved ones are going to have to go to the games.

Everything is in a sort of muddle with her relationship with Peeta and Gale. It doesn’t get much better. From the Hunger Games, I’ve stuck by Peeta. Team Peeta! I am firm on my feet for Katniss to choose Peeta although he was been distant. I don’t blame him though. As for Gale, he has been giving Katniss the cold shoulder after witnessing Peeta’s ‘star crossed’ lovers role. Honestly, who cares? It’s Peeta she needs anyways. Gotta love him!

The cliff-hanger is simply maddening. It’s that immense! But I really love this series. So if you haven’t read this series what are in heavens are you waiting for? Go buy a copy as there sure is a whole lotta EPIC stuff. I just can’t get enough. Mocking Jay, here I come!

Waiting on Wednesday (27)

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Enshadowed
by Kelly Creagh

Pages: 416 pages
Release Date:  January 24th 2012 
Publisher: Atheneum
Buy the Book: Amazon



While Varen remains a prisoner in the dream-world, Isobel is haunted by his memory. He appears to her in her dreams and soon, even in her waking life. But is she just imagining it? Isobel knows she must find a way back to Varen. She makes plans to go to Baltimore. There, she confronts the figure known throughout the world as the Poe Toaster—the same dark man who once appeared to Isobel in her dreams, calling himself "Reynolds."
Isobel succeeds in interrupting the Toaster's ritual and, in doing so, discovers a way to return to the dream-world. Soon, she finds herself swept up in a realm which not only holds remnants of Poe's presence, but has also now taken on the characteristics of Varen's innermost self. It is a dark world comprised of fear, terror, and anger.
When Isobel once more encounters Varen, she finds him changed. With his mind poisoned by the dream world, he becomes a malevolent force, bent on destroying all—even himself. Now Isobel must face a new adversary, one who also happens to be her greatest love
Nevermore was unbeliveably good. I loved so I cannot wait until this is released and it so doesn't help that the release date is a million years away!
 
 
What are you waiting for?
Waiting on Wednesday is a meme hosted by Breaking the Spine

Stolen by Lucy Christopher

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Stolen
by Lucy Christopher
Pages: 301
Release Date: May 4th 2009
Publisher: Chicken House
Buy the Book: Amazon



Sixteen year old Gemma is kidnapped from Bangkok airport and taken to the Australian Outback. This wild and desolate landscape becomes almost a character in the book, so vividly is it described. Ty, her captor, is no stereotype. He is young, fit and completely gorgeous. This new life in the wilderness has been years in the planning. He loves only her, wants only her. Under the hot glare of the Australian sun, cut off from the world outside, can the force of his love make Gemma love him back? The story takes the form of a letter, written by Gemma to Ty, reflecting on those strange and disturbing months in the outback. Months when the lines between love and obsession, and love and dependency, blur until they don't exist - almost.


My Thoughts
Stolen was one of those books that got me reading from the very first page. Scratch that. From the very first sentence. It was just that good. And the entire book? Remarkable. Just remarkable. I loved it!

Stolen is written in the form of a letter. So, it's in second person. And I really liked that. One of the reasons why it's simply amazing. It gave a more strong connection and I loved how it was written. Complicated? Yes. But, amazing.

Gemma is strong. She hangs in their you know. Ty, her captor, thinks that he can just kidnap a random girl just because he ‘loves’ her. How ridiculous. Gemma is scared and alone and I totally sympathised with her throughout the entire book. She never gave up, always trying to escape in one way or another just hoping and yearning for freedom. Just gotta love that realism.

As the book went on however, I started to like Ty. I don’t know why. Probably because he’s kind, caring and not aggressive in any way whatsoever. I had this little part of me that wished Gemma would gradually like Ty too. See what this book does! It makes you bewildered in such an amzingly weird way.Ty's and Gemma's relationship is just complex and powerful.

That's another thing. You won't know what to feel. Wrong or right. Yes and No. And the ending is something else entirely. I don't know whether I sould be happy or sad. But I truly believe one thing, Ty and Gemma have a connection.

Very profound and intense, there's no doubt that I loved this book. It had me intriguied, alarmed and amazed. Stolen will whisk you off your feet making it an unforgettable fall.

Author Interview: Paige Harbison

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Paige Harbison
 Paige Harbison was 19 when she wrote Here Lies Bridget. She is the daughter of American chick lit Queen Beth Harbison and is currently working toward her Bachelor's Degree at Towson University in
Baltimore, MD. Following in the footsteps of her mother,—who is author of Shoe Addicts Anonymous, which is being made into a movie starring Halle Berry-- 21 year old Paige has already signed a deal to give her book the Hollywood treatment
--


What do you do when the five people you meet in limbo all want you to go to hell?
Bridget Duke is the uncontested ruler of her school. The meanest girl with the biggest secret insecurities. And when new girl Anna Judge arrives, things start to fall apart for Bridget: friends don’t worship as attentively, teachers don’t fall for her wide-eyed “who me?” look, expulsion looms ahead and the one boy she’s always loved—Liam Ward—can barely even look at her anymore.
When a desperate Bridget drives too fast and crashes her car, she ends up in limbo, facing everyone she’s wronged and walking a few uncomfortable miles in their shoes. Now she has only one chance to make a last impression. Though she might end up dead, she has one last shot at redemption and the chance to right the wrongs she’s inflicted on the people who mean the most to her.
And Bridget’s about to learn that, sometimes, saying you’re sorry just isn’t enough.…

--
Describe Here Lies Bridget in just three words!
Big. Skinny. Bitch.

If you found yourself being in Bridget's situation, how would you even react?
I’d freak out. After freaking out, I’d be unbelievably embarrassed to watch myself making a fool of myself.

Here Lies Bridget is definitely a Strong and moving novel. What impact did you want this to have on readers?
I wasn’t all that fixated on teaching a lesson. I mostly just shoved this awful girl out into the spotlight and said to her: “You’re just awful, and here’s why.” And from there I just hope people were amused by it, or that maybe they saw themselves in Bridget and realized they should chill out on the whole ‘hurting people’ thing.
 
How did you feel when you found out Here Lies Bridget was going to made into a movie? I know I was overjoyed! :)
I flipped. But I also am trying not to get my hopes up. I was so excited though. It’s an unreal opportunity.

So, What's next for Paige Harbison?
New Girl, which will be out later this year. It’s a modern take on Daphne du Maurier’s (and Alfred Hitchcock’s) Rebecca. I think my writing has grown since Here Lies Bridget, as is to be expected since it was my debut.
--

A great big thank you to Paige for having this interview! Make sure you read my review of Here Lies Bridget, to just get awed by it and I be sure to buy it!
Thanks again Paige :D

Here Lies Bridget by Paige Harbison

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Here Lies Bridget
by Paige Harbison

Pages: 464
Release Date: June 17th 2011
Publisher: Mira Ink
Buy the Book: Amazon UK | Amazon US


What do you do when the five people you meet in limbo all want you to go to hell?
Bridget Duke is the uncontested ruler of her school. The meanest girl with the biggest secret insecurities. And when new girl Anna Judge arrives, things start to fall apart for Bridget: friends don’t worship as attentively, teachers don’t fall for her wide-eyed “who me?” look, expulsion looms ahead and the one boy she’s always loved—Liam Ward—can barely even look at her anymore.
When a desperate Bridget drives too fast and crashes her car, she ends up in limbo, facing everyone she’s wronged and walking a few uncomfortable miles in their shoes. Now she has only one chance to make a last impression. Though she might end up dead, she has one last shot at redemption and the chance to right the wrongs she’s inflicted on the people who mean the most to her.
And Bridget’s about to learn that, sometimes, saying you’re sorry just isn’t enough.…


My Thoughts
Here Lies Bridget is a book that grew on to me. I'll say it's mainly because of how Bridget, the main character used to be like. She was just very unlikable. She's mean disrespectful, unfriendly, the list can go on. But then everything changes when she one day recklessly drives her car meeting with a horrible accident.

The way Bridget dies wasn't very original however it's portrayed in an awesome way. What's even better is that everything played as a build up so death was quite inevitable. I loved how the crash played another beginning and how from then on Brigit was a whole new person.

I have to applaud Harbinson. At first I really hated Bridget, come on she was a total bitch. But then it was amazing how Harbinson cleverly changed those feelings to sympathy, understanding and care. I couldn't stop reading. I had to know what would happen to her.

I finished Here Lies Bridget in one sitting; I really enjoy reading it. It was a journey of self discovery, realisation and forgiveness. I loved how it was. I even found the ending to be quite surprising, I didn't think it'll be that. I loved it! It is a fantastic inciting book for teens who face social decisions everyday.

In My Mailbox (27)

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In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren. It's a great way to showcase the books you've gotten over the week, whether they are bought, borrowed or free.

 Review
Daughters of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor (UK Proof)
I really like how this looks LOL, even though it is an ARC. I got a postcard too and that had a picture of the feather on the book. Can't wait to read it, it sounds really good :)
--
Won
Demons of the Ocean by Justin Somper
Tide of Terror by Justin Somper
Blood Captain by Justin Somper
Black Heart by Justin Somper
Empire of Night by Justin Somper
Immortal War by Justin Somper
I didn't know that I won all these books! I thought it was a swag giveaway so I was shocked when I got a huge package in the mail... thanks to Sammee @ I Want to Read That
--
Ebooks
Forget You by Jennifer Echols
Invincible Summer by Hannah Moskowitz

What did you get in your mailbox?

Love you to Death by Meg Cabot

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Love you to Death
by Meg Cabot

Pages: 256
Release Date: August 6th 2004
Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books
Series: The Mediator #1
Other books in series: High Stakes, Mean Spirits, Young Blood, Grave Doubts & Heaven Sent
Buy the book: Amazon UK | Amazon US



Suze is a mediator—a liaison between the living and the dead. In other words, she sees dead people. And they won't leave her alone until she helps them resolve their unfinished business with the living. But Jesse, the hot ghost haunting her bedroom, doesn't seem to need her help. Which is a relief, because Suze has just moved to sunny California and plans to start fresh, with trips to the mall instead of the cemetery, and surfing instead of spectral visitations.
But the very first day at her new school, Suze realizes it's not that easy. There's a ghost with revenge on her mind ... and Suze happens to be in the way


My Thoughts
Love you to Death, (also called Haunted as US title) is definitely one of my favourite books. Hell, this series is like one of the best. I was entranced! I enjoyed reading every single YA Meg Cabot book there is and so this book was no disappointment.

Suze is strong, sassy and funny as hell.  She's a sophomore that has just moved to Carmel because of her mother's re marriage. And she sure is different. She can see ghosts. She can talk to them, feel them and hear them too. But most importantly, she can help them move on. I really liked Suze's gift and how she didn't take advantage of it.

This is where Jessie comes in. The unbelievably hot and smokin ghost that resides in her bedroom. I love him! He's so polite, caring and just hot. What else could a girl want? And whenever he says Querida, you can't help but feel your heart melt. Swoon worthy!

Although the plot isn't very original, its certainly not boring. This catchy first book in the Mediator series is just excellent. Faced paced and easy to read, this is a series that I could easily get addicted too. Highly recommended!

A Need for Book News (4)

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A Need for Book News is a weekly feature I thought of doing displaying recent book related news that have been announed during the week! For previous Book News posts, click here.
Take a look at all the awesome bookish things! :D
COVER ALERTS
Torn by Cat Clarke
I havn't read Entangled yet, and I so need to put it near the top of my TBR list because look at torn.  Ctat Clarke released the cover on her blog and it's just so cool right, I'm so loving it!
Hallowed by Cynthia Hand
Just look at the US cover for Hallowed, the book that follows unearthly... it really fits in with the series and I love this cover too. If you havn't read Unearthly, you so should... it is one awesome book!
 
Balthazar by Claudia Hand
Balthazar is the companion novel to the Evernight series. I really loved the Evernight series but I wasn't a really big fan of how everything ended. I don't really like the colour to the Balthazar cover but I'll say it's alright.
Everneath by Brodi Ashton
OMG just look at the Everneath cover! It is just to die for. I havn't read any books by Ashton and can't wait to see wha this one is about!

TRAILERS
NEW Delirium Trailer - would you take the cure?
If love were a disease
would you take the cure?
Watch the brand new interactive trailer for Delirium and decide...

OMG! The trailer for Delirium is so so awesome and do you know what's more, it's interactive so you can click yes or no... watch it and you'll see what I mean. And oh I clicked No obviously :D ...great trailer don't you think?
OTHER NEWS
 
Random House Children's Books have acquired not one, not two, but three new titles from Karen Mahoney, author of The Iron Witch and its upcoming sequel The Wood Queen.
These new titles will include the third and final book in The Iron Witch trilogy, entitled The Stone Demon, to be published in 2013.
RHCB have also snapped up two books in a Karen's new series, Beautiful Ghosts. This one features Moth, a teenage vampire who first appeared in a short story Falling to Ash in The Eternal Kiss anthology.
Here's more about Beautiful Ghosts:

Being a vampire is for life - not just a lifestyle.
Reluctant teenage vampire Marie 'Moth' O'Neal infiltrates a group of Otherkin kids in Boston, teenagers who believe they are reincarnated vampires, in order to find out who or what is killing off the troubled teens... and then turning them into something truly undead with a taste for human flesh. All this while trying to stop sexy young hunter Jace Murdoch from shooting anything that doesn't breathe - including her.

BLOG TOURS
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Some great news this week! Awesome stuff! Right?
MIA

The Iron King by Julie Kagawa

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The Iron King
by Julie Kagawa

Pages: 384
Release Date: February 4th 2011
Publisher: Mira Books
Series: The Iron Fey
Other books in series: The Iron Daughter
Buy the Book: Amazon UK | Amazon US


My name is Meghan Chase. In less than twenty-four hours I'll be sixteen. Countless stories, songs and poems have been written about this wonderful age, when a girl finds true love and the stars shine for her and the handsome prince carries her off into the sunset. I don't think it will be that way for me. Something has always felt slightly off in Meghan's life, ever since her father disappeared before her eyes when she was six. She has never quite fit in at school...or at home. When a dark stranger begins watching her from afar, and her prankster best friend becomes strangely protective of her, Meghan senses that everything she's known is about to change. But she could never have guessed the truth - that she is the daughter of a mythical fairy king and is a pawn in a deadly war. Now Meghan will learn just how far she'll go to save someone she cares about, to stop a mysterious evil no faery creature dare face...and to find love with a young prince who might rather see her dead than let her touch his icy heart

My Thoughts
The Iron King is a book I devoured. I adore this debut. I seriously LOVED it. Okay, so at first I didn't quite much and I'll say because it all just seemed quite fairy tale. I'm not really into this idea of 'faeries' but however I must say, I'll have to make an exception on this case seeing as Kagawa pulled it off  really really well.

Megan is a true heroine. She's strong, caring and independent. Her brother, had been kidnapped and so she made it her misson to find him and then get him back where he belongs. Selfless? Nope! She's a character you just would love to be with especially since she's got all these other awesome characters tagging along. Puck. Grimalkin. Ash. They're all in unique in their very own way making them pretty much amazing characters.

Everything is beautifully enveloped in this debut. Very impressive. I loved how descriptive it was. There was action, romance, and humour found. I just cannot wait for the next book in this installment, The Iron Daughter and I assure you, you NEED this book!