Feed Your Imagination

Catching Fire

2010-01-07T20:17:00.002-05:00

An absolutely thrilling sequel to The Hunger Games, Suzanne Collins will blow your mind with Catching Fire. Katniss and Peeta made it out of the Hunger Games alive once, but can they do it again? As the living champions of the Hunger Games are pitted against each other, Katniss and Peeta realize that while being clever may have saved their lives the first time around, their behavior is now perceived as a threat to the Capital’s control and order. Meanwhile, the couple has managed to inspire hope among citizens opposing the Capitol, those who believe there’s a lot more going on than the government would like them to believe. As if survival weren’t enough to deal with, Katniss is still caught up in a sort of love triangle, struggling to understand how she feels about Peeta and Gale.

I enjoyed Catching Fire just as much as I did its predecessor. As expected, Katniss continued to be the strong protagonist I fell in love with in The Hunger Games. Though I was sometimes disappointed with her indecisiveness, I still loved her wit and bravery. I wish her interactions with Peeta and Gale had been developed further and had been less muddy, but I assume that will happen in the conclusion to this trilogy. Nevertheless, I was especially impressed by Collins’ play with time and symbolism in this installment. Though I wasn’t sure if the original premise would remain thrilling without Catching Fire seeming repetitive, Collins seems to do this with ease by focusing on the Quarter Quell, and I was never bored. I could hardly put the book down. This novel ends resolving sufficient loose plot lines to appease the reader, while leaving you desperate for the conclusion. 10 out of 10.

Waiting on Wednesday: January 6

2010-01-06T18:40:00.003-05:00

Title: Mistwood
Author: Leah Cypess
US Release date: April 27, 2010

Summary (from GoodReads): The Shifter is an immortal creature bound by an ancient spell to protect the kings of Samorna. When the realm is peaceful, she retreats to the Mistwod. But when she is needed she always comes. Isabel remembers nothing. Nothing before the prince rode into her forest to take her back to the castle. Nothing about who she is supposed to be, or the powers she is supposed to have. Prince Rokan needs Isabel to be his Shifter. He needs her ability to shift to animal form, to wind, to mist. He needs her lethal speed and superhuman strength. And he needs her loyalty--because without it, she may be his greatest threat. Isabel knows that her prince is lying to her, but she can't help wanting to protect him from the dangers and intrigues of the court . . . until a deadly truth shatters the bond between them. Now Isabel faces a choice that threatens her loyalty, her heart . . . and everything she thought she knew.

Why I'm interested: I'm all for supporting the tenners, and this book really speaks to my fantasy interests. First of all, I love princes (and not just those of the Disney variety, I promise). I also think this take on Shifters sounds awesome, and stands out a bit from the other fantasy that we're seeing a lot of in YA lit. Plus there definitely sounds like there'll be some romance, and I can never pass that up. And I mean, there's a castle on the cover. Sweet.

So... what did you pick this week?

Moonlight

2010-01-05T18:36:00.002-05:00

Moonlight by Rachel Hawthorne follows Kayla, a nature lover who lost her parents to the forest at a young age, as she discovers werewolves – though I suppose I should say Shifters. As Kayla faces her first summer as a sherpa, she struggles to overcome her nightmares while learning more about her identity and her past. As the summer unfolds, Kayla finds herself torn between feelings for Macon, a member of the hiking group she’s working with, and Lucas, their seemingly fearless leader. Meanwhile, Lucas and his fellow Dark Guardians, those charged with protecting the Shifter population, face a threat worse than exposure. Lucas strains to maintain his calm demeanor and lead as he should while protecting those dearest to him.

Though a bit formulaic, I truly enjoyed this start to Rachel Hawthorne’s Dark Guardians trilogy (though I hear now a fourth installment is due out spring 2010, so I suppose it isn't a trilogy anymore). For one, to read a novel dealing with werewolves as opposed to vampires was refreshing. By developing the history of Shifters, Hawthorne creates a more complex side to these fantastic creatures. Moonlight is a light, quick read that will keep the reader engaged through the final page. Full of an interesting group of characters, each with their own quirks, this novel is never dull. The romantic lines are really at the heart of this book, and the chemistry between characters is sure not to disappoint. For those who like adventure and romance and don’t mind a bit of fluff, this is a great book to pick up. 8 out of 10.

Lady Macbeth's Daughter

2010-01-03T16:39:00.002-05:00

From the author of Ophelia comes a new twist on a Shakespearean classic: Lady Macbeth’s Daughter. In Lisa Klein’s take on Macbeth, Lady Macbeth bears a deformed child – a girl, nonetheless. When Macbeth casts away his child, Albia, his wife mourns and a serving woman, Rhuven, along with her sisters (coincidently the witches), takes the baby in, treating her like a daughter. Albia grows up with no knowledge of her rightful birth mother, while Lady Macbeth continues to grieve for the daughter she believes to be dead and for her failure to produce a healthy male heir to inherit the Macbeth name. When King Duncan is murdered, Albia is forced to leave her family to live with Banquo. There, Albia begins to feel an attachment to Banquo as the father she never had, as well as to Fleance – as more than a brother. A curious and brave heroine amidst the war, Albia sets out to learn the truth of her birth and to set things right for new family.

Lisa Klein creates a new and engaging angle on Shakespeare’s story of Macbeth in Lady Macbeth’s Daughter. Albia is a fierce heroine for a novel based off of Shakespeare, courageous and witty, though a bit naïve. Though the Macbeths are not supposed to have any children according to the play, Albia’s story fits perfectly with the drama. This work even unravels the mysteries of the witches and prophecies. I also appreciate how Lisa Klein portrays Lady Macbeth as weak and pained as opposed to power-hungry and manipulative, rendering her sympathetic to the reader. The one disappointing aspect of this book was the timing of the ending. For me, Lady Macbeth’s Daughter ended too early in Albia’s story. Still, 8 out of 10.

P.S. On her website, Lisa Klein summarizes her inspiration for this novel as such: “Lady Macbeth says ‘I have given suck, and know how tender 'tis to love the babe that milks me.’ But the Macbeths have no children! Hmmm. What if Macbeth and his wife DID have a child, and her loss was the catalyst for the crimes and other events of Shakespeare's grimmest tragedy?”

Holiday Break Reading Challenege Finish Line

2010-01-03T15:06:00.017-05:00

I continue to fail majorly. I got so caught up in reading for this challenge that I forgot about the writing reviews and blogging portion. I ended up reading a total of 24 books (way more than my original goal of 15), and I doubt I'll write reviews for all of them (correction: I KNOW I won't write reviews for all of them because I have a tendency to be a lazy ass). So, instead I'm going to write a couple of sentences about each, and will pick my favorites when I decide to get around to full reviews. Let me know if you want to hear more about any of these!

1. Give Up the Ghost by Megan Crewe - I read this for the 1 ARC Tours, so you'll definitely be getting a full review of this one. It took a bit of time before I really got into the book, but once I did I loved it.

2. Where There's a Witch by Madelyn Alt - The fifth installment of Alt's Bewitching Mysteries series. This murder mystery wasn't quite as interesting as the previous ones (it takes way too long to get to the exciting part), but I loved the development of Maggie's personal life and the ending was great, so it all balanced out nicely.

3. Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick - I really rushed through this when I read it back in September for the B&N discussion, and just knew I had to reread it since I was missing so much. This book was such a creative blend of fright, friendship, mystery, and romance, though I think readers will either love or hate it. Lucky for me, I loved it and really liked the writing style -- so much so that after the first 50 pages or so, I couldn't put it down.

4-6. Moonlight, Full Moon, and Dark of the Moon by Rachel Hawthorne - Though a bit formulaic, I truly enjoyed this trilogy (though I hear now a fourth installment is due out this spring, so I suppose it isn't a trilogy anymore). I've always enjoyed the romantic lines Hawthorne writes, and I like that she tackled werewolves and made them a whole lot more complex.

7. The Hollow by Jessica Verday - This was just as awesome as I expected it to be. I admit that I'm not always the best at guessing what will happen, but I never would've guessed the truth behind this story. The Haunted can't come soon enough.

8. Larceny and Lace by Annette Blair - Another cute mystery that's the second in Blair's A Vintage Magic Series. I really like how the series has developed so far, so I'll definitely continue to read them.

9. Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl - So freakin' good. I really loved how magic and history came together, and all of the puzzle pieces resolve so wonderfully in the end. There absolutely must be a sequel.

10. Shadowland by Alyson Noel - This is the first time Ever started to get on my nerves. I stayed interested because the plot was really engaging, but sometimes she annoyed me so much that finishing seemed like a challenge.

11. Bad Apple by Laura Ruby - Interesting concept, but I didn't really like this. The characters felt flat and I didn't like the format very much (Tola's narration is broken up by quotes from other characters in the novel, but they didn't actually add to the story).

12. The Reader by Bernhard Schlink - This book was incredibly moving and some parts even gave me chills. As the narration was so key to the novel's success in my mind, I'm interested in watching the film adaptation now.

13. Scarlett Fever by Maureen Johnson - I've loved Maureen Johnson ever since I got an ARC of The Key to the Golden Firebird. This return to Scarlett's life was thoroughly enjoyable, and I love the new characters she brought in. The ending really left me hanging, so this is another book where there better be a sequel.

14. The Ex Games by Jennifer Echols - Cute and fun new SimonPulse RoCom. I could certainly relate to the stubborn protagonist.

15. Slept Away by Julie Kraut - This wasn't what I expected (I think I went into reading expecting a sweet summer romance), but I still enjoyed it quite a bit. The novel was longer than it needed to be, but the emphasis on friendship and message that appearances aren't everything/the clothes don't make the man was really nice.

16. At Face Value by Emily Franklin - An interesting adaptation of Cyrano de Bergerac that had me laughing. It was longer than it needed to be, and I was a little disappointed by the happy ending, but still enjoyed it.

17. The Silver Blade by Sally Gardner - I liked this sequel more than the first book (The Red Necklace). I think that's because there was more action and the older, mature Yann was a more intriguing protagonist.

18. The Season by Sarah MacLean - This reminded me a lot of Marissa Doyle's books, and that's a good thing. I loved the strong females, sweet romance, and mystery and I always fall for Regency Era fiction.

19. Geektastic edited by Holly Black and Cecil Castellucci - Some stories were great, others not so much. Still, an enjoyable collection of stories about a wide range of geeks. I'll admit that I didn't understand some of the geek language (I suppose I'm not geektastic enough), but they were still fun and I liked seeing the elevation of the geek.

20. Are These My Basoomas I See Before Me by Louise Rennison - A disappointing conclusion to the Georgia Nicolson series. The majority of the book just felt like a jumble of what had already been written in early installments, and the only good part was getting to finally know who Georgia ends up with.

21. A Pearl Among Princes by Coleen Paratore - Absoultely darling story that you can read in a couple of hours. The character's actions didn't feel too realistic, but it was still a sweet fairy tale.

22. Academy 7 by Anne Osterlund - I liked this more than I expected to. I originally read it because I was drawn to the cover and enjoyed Osterlund's writing style in Aurelia, but the story really held its own.

23. Fairest of All by Serena Valentino - I never thought I'd feel sympathy for the Evil Stepmother/Witch in Snow White, but I did. I liked this backstory and it was fairly well-written.

24. Another Faust by Daniel and Dina Nayeri - I loved this Faust retelling. It was absolutely creepy and while I hated some of the characters, I'm pretty positive that was intentional. Even hours after finishing, I'm still wrapping my mind around some parts.

Flash Burnout

2009-12-21T23:03:00.002-05:00

Flash Burnout by L.K. Madigan gets into the mind of fifteen-year-old Blake who is struggling to balance his perfect girlfriend Shannon and his photo partner and friend Marissa who happens to be a girl. After taking a photo of a worn-down, drug addict on the street for his photography class (Blake always sticks to gritty photos), he discovers more about Marissa – that woman was her missing mother. As Blake learns more about Marissa, their relationship changes, and Blake begins to realize that though love and romance are confusing, friendship isn’t necessarily any clearer. While he works to perfect his photography, he realizes it takes just as much work to balance the two most important females in his life that couldn’t be more different.

L.K. Madigan blends comedy with more serious matters perfectly in Flash Burnout. Blake’s dilemmas feel real to the reader, and I must say I laughed at some point during nearly every chapter is this novel. L.K. Madigan does a superb job getting into the mind of a teenage boy – a task many young adult authors have tried without as much success – as Blake’s thoughts feel authentic. This book is fast-paced and, despite its length, easy to read in one sitting because it’s so hard to put down. The references to the craft of photography, especially the tips found at the beginning of each chapter and in the title itself, add to the parallels in Blake’s life and enrich the reader’s experience. The only time I was let down was the very ending of this novel which felt rather abrupt. I wish Flash Burnout had gone further in time and not ended so suddenly, so that the reader could feel more closure with the characters. 8 out of 10.

I'M BACK!!!

2009-12-19T23:06:00.003-05:00

All I can say is FAIL. I am SO sorry I feel so behind this semester. I thought I'd be able to keep up during school, but that only lasted for about a month and then I was too overwhelmed to update. So sad.

Anyway, I have a bunch of reviews to get up and a whole slew of books in my room to read, and I've decided the best way to get myself going again is to participate in a challenge. So, with that in mind, I'm participating in the Holiday Break Reading Challenge. It started yesterday, but so what. Between now and January 3rd, 2010 (a new decade!), I am going to (hopefully) read 15 books. I'm starting now with a book I just got for the 1 ARC Tours - Give Up the Ghost by Megan Crewe. aannnnnnnnnnnddddd... GO!

Waiting on Wednesday: October 14

2009-10-14T16:20:00.000-04:00

Title: The Dark Divine

Author: Bree Despain

US Release date: December 22, 2009

Summary (from GoodReads): I stood back and watched his movements. Daniel had that way about him that could shut me down in an instant. . . . I kicked the gravel a couple of times and worked up my courage again. “Tell me . . . I mean . . . why did you come back? Why now, after all this time?” Grace Divine, daughter of the local pastor, always knew something terrible happened the night Daniel Kalbi disappeared—the night she found her brother Jude collapsed on the porch, covered in blood. But she has no idea what a truly monstrous secret that night really held. And when Daniel returns three years later, Grace can no longer deny her attraction to him, despite promising Jude she’ll stay away. As Grace gets closer to Daniel, her actions stir the ancient evil Daniel unleashed that horrific night. Grace must discover the truth behind Jude and Daniel's dark secret . . . and the cure that can save the ones she loves. But she may have to lay down the ultimate sacrifice to do it—her soul.

Why I'm interested: Even beyond the gorgeous cover, this book looks so intriguing! An ancient evil, dark secrets, sacrificing one's soul? Wow. The Dark Divine looks like it will have a lot of weight to it and won't be a book you want to put down. This synopsis leaves so much to think about, I cannot wait for this to be released in December.

What's your choice this Wednesday?

Secret Society Teen Ambassador Contest

2009-10-12T09:42:00.002-04:00

So sorry I've fallen off the face of the earth. I didn't realize quite how demanding this year would be academically, and while it's sad I've had to choose homework and classes over updating this blog :(

Anyway, this is a really awesome contest to promote Tom Dolby's Secret Society. Enter by the 19th and YOU could win an Ambassador Initiation Kit!

The Teen Ambassador Initiation Kit includes:

• “The Initiates were given what looked like tattoos at the nape of their necks.” A set of 15 temporary ankh tattoos for you and 14 Initiates. Give them out wisely!

• “Anastasia took a sip of her martini, leaving a dark red lipstick print on her glass.” Your ticket to gorgeous lips and cheeks, TheBalm’s Stainiac Beauty Queen tinted gel blush (”a hint of tint for
the lips and cheeks”)! A $15 value! (TheBalm is a fabulous makeup brand launched by my friend Marissa Shipman and sold nationwide at Sephora.)

• “A card was included with the package that simply read, ‘With compliments.’” A one-of-a-kind vintage New York postcard signed by Tom — use it as a bookmark!

• “Patch and Nick used to play this game in class, where they would pass notes.” One beautiful, retro-styled Field Notes mini-notebook, perfect for writing down secrets! At the Bradford Trust, we’re crazy about these little notebooks. Normally, three are $10!

• “Lauren started to open it, but Emily stopped her.” Last, but not least: a secret initiation tool — here’s a hint: it’s sealed with an ankh!

Waiting on Wednesday: October 7

2009-10-07T11:19:00.007-04:00

Title: Hex Hall
Author: Rachel Hawkins
Series: first in a series of Hex Hall books
US Release date: March 2, 2010

Summary (from Amazon.com): Three years ago, Sophie Mercer discovered that she was a witch. It's gotten her into a few scrapes. Her non-gifted mother has been as supportive as possible, consulting Sophie's estranged father-an elusive European warlock-only when necessary. But when Sophie attracts too much human attention for a prom-night spell gone horribly wrong, it's her dad who decides her punishment: exile to Hex Hall, an isolated reform school for wayward Prodigium, a.k.a. witches, faeries, and shapeshifters. By the end of her first day among fellow freak-teens, Sophie has quite a scorecard: three powerful enemies who look like supermodels, a futile crush on a gorgeous warlock, a creepy tagalong ghost, and a new roommate who happens to be the most hated person and only vampire on campus. Worse, Sophie soon learns that a mysterious predator has been attacking students, and her only friend is the number-one suspect. As a series of blood-curdling mysteries starts to converge, Sophie prepares for the biggest threat of all: an ancient secret society determined to destroy all Prodigium, especially her.

Why I'm interested: Hex Hall (as in the school) sounds really interesting. I love how Rachel Hawkins is combining all these supernatural beings - witches, faeries, and more. Then, she adds in a secret society and lots of mystery. Sounds sweet to me.

What's your pick this Wednesday?

Waiting on Wednesday: September 30

2009-09-30T23:03:00.000-04:00

Title: Magic Under Glass

Author: Jackie/Jaclyn Dolamore

US Release date: February 1, 2010

Summary (from GoodReads): Nimira is a music-hall performer forced to dance for pennies to an audience of leering drunks. When wealthy sorcerer Hollin Parry hires her to do a special act - singing accompaniment to an exquisite piano-playing automaton, Nimira believes it is the start of a new life. In Parry's world, however, buried secrets stir. Unsettling below-stairs rumours abound about ghosts, a mad woman roaming the halls, and of Parry's involvement in a gang of ruthless sorcerers who torture fairies for sport. When Nimira discovers the spirit of a dashing young fairy gentleman is trapped inside the automaton's stiff limbs, waiting for someone to break the curse and set him free, the two fall in love. But it is a love set against a dreadful race against time to save the entire fairy realm, which is in mortal peril.

Why I'm interested: Sort of like last week, I love that there's a fairy realm, along with sorcerers and ghosts -- all these supernatural elements coming together is fascinating. And of course, I'm such a sucker for a romance that's fighting against the odds. I'm already sighing.

What are you looking forward to right now?

Waiting on Wednesday: September 23

2009-09-23T10:37:00.003-04:00

Title: Dragonfly

Author: Julia Golding

US Release date: October 20, 2009

Summary (from Amazon): Princess Taoshira of the Blue Crescent Islands is appalled when she is ordered to marry Prince Ramil of Gerfal in order to unite their lands. And he's not too pleased, either. They hate each other on sight. So, when Tashi and Ramil are kidnapped, they fear there's no escape - from their kidnappers or from each other. Can they put aside their differences long enough to survive ambush, unarmed combat, brainwashing, and imprisonment? And will the people they meet on their adventure help them or betray them to the enemy?

Why I'm interested: I'll admit that the cover is what really caught my attention, because it looks so simple, except it's really not. After reading the summary, I'm really curious, as titles are always deliberate: what does "dragonfly" have to do with anything? Plus, this looks like it will be full of adventure and romance. :)

What are you looking forward to this week?

Feed Your Ears XVIII: Shiver

2009-09-18T19:06:00.004-04:00

Sorry I haven't been posting as much :( Adjusting to school has been a little stressful, but I should be able to keep up with a few posts a week again now that my schedule is settled and I'm back into a routine.

SO... while I wasn't able to get an interview in with this wonderful author, she said I could steal a playlist she's made and share it with everyone. I don't want to keep you wondering any longer, so let's just say this author is Maggie Stiefvater and the playlist is the one she came up with for Shiver.

1. "The Ocean" - The Bravery (the general thematic song)
2. "Sundrenched World" - Joshua Radin
3. "Run" - Snow Patrol
4. "Cemeteries of London" - Coldplay (hunt scene)
5. "Make This Go On Forever" - Snow Patrol
6. "Matroshka" - Dredg
7. "Underwater" - Vertical Horizon
8. "Star Mile" - Joshua Radin (making quiche)
9. "Set the Fire to the Third Bar" - Snow Patrol
10. "Jeremiah" - Starsailor
11. "Bug Eyes" - Dredg
12. "Everything'll Be Alright" - Joshua Radin (bookstore scene)
13. "Hide and Seek" - Imogen Heap (car scene near end)
14. "A Clock is Ticking" - Snow Patrol (Jack scene near end)
15. "Peter Returns" - James Newton Howard (last scene)
16. "Wake Up, Open the Door, & Escape to the Sea" - Blaqk Audio (ultimate nookie scene)

Such an awesome playlist! And mega thanks to Maggie for letting me use this for Feed Your Ears this week. Her original post of this playlist is over at her blog, where you can also find an audio version of most of these great songs. So go check it out!

Waiting on Wednesday: September 16

2009-09-16T15:16:00.000-04:00

Title: The Indigo Notebook
Author: Laura Resau
Series: 1st in The Notebook series

US Release date: October 13, 2009

Summary (from GoodReads): Zeeta's life with her free-spirited mother, Layla, is anything but normal. Every year Layla picks another country she wants to live in. This summer they’re in Ecuador, and Zeeta is determined to convince her mother to settle down. Zeeta makes friends with vendors at the town market and begs them to think of upstanding, “normal” men to set up with Layla. There, Zeeta meets Wendell. She learns that he was born nearby, but adopted by an American family. His one wish is to find his birth parents, and Zeeta agrees to help him. But when Wendell’s biological father turns out to be involved in something very dangerous, Zeeta wonders whether she’ll ever get the chance to tell her mom how she really feels—or to enjoy her deepening feelings for Wendell.

Why I'm interested: First, I absolutely loved Laura Resau's writing in Red Glass. While the plot is entirely different, this book looks like it will have many of the same themes, which would be great. I also love to travel, so I really like Zeeta's background.

In My Mailbox: Week 14

2009-09-13T22:40:00.000-04:00

:( No books this week... hopefully better luck next week!

What about you all?

Feed Your Ears XVII: Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist

2009-09-11T10:11:00.000-04:00

To read about the origins of Feed Your Ears, check out my first post.

So this week I'm going with something a little different again. Obviously, Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan is FULL of music. On the book's webiste, Rachel Cohn has put together three great playlists.

The first playlist is a compilation of many of the songs and artists that appear in Nick & Norah's Infinite Playlist. This playlist includes Stevie Wonder's "Living For The City," Rancid's "Ruby Soho," Belle & Sebastian's "Wrapped Up In Books" and more.

There's another playlist Rachel Cohn calls the (T)rainy/Dreamy Playlist. This one was inspired by Norah's desire to make a mix for Nick with "rain" and "train" in the title, with songs like The Weather Girls' "It's Raining Men," and Anita O'Day's "Take the 'A' Train."

The last playlist on the book's site is one Rachel Cohn put together of songs she could imagine Norah listening to. This playlist has got some great hits such as Frank Sinatra's "Come Fly With Me" and Elvis Costello's "You Belong to Me."

Catching Fire contest winner

2009-09-10T19:16:00.003-04:00

Sorry it took me a few days to get all the entries together and thanks for waiting while I did so, as now it is time to announce the winner of my Catching Fire contest. Without further ado, the winner of an ARC of Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins is...

Shal!

Congrats Shal! I'll be getting in touch soon to get your mailing address so I can send the book out. Thanks to everyone who entered! I was thrilled to have a ton of entries, and will try to get another contest going before the month ends.

Waiting on Wednesday: September 9

2009-09-09T13:03:00.000-04:00

Title: Beautiful Creatures
Authors: Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl
US Release date: December 1, 2009

Summary (from Amazon.com): Lena Duchannes is unlike anyone the small Southern town of Gatlin has ever seen, and she's struggling to conceal her power and a curse that has haunted her family for generations. But even within the overgrown gardens, murky swamps and crumbling graveyards of the forgotten South, a secret cannot stay hidden forever. Ethan Wate, who has been counting the months until he can escape from Gatlin, is haunted by dreams of a beautiful girl he has never met. When Lena moves into the town's oldest and most infamous plantation, Ethan is inexplicably drawn to her and determined to uncover the connection between them. In a town with no surprises, one secret could change everything.

Why I'm interested: Well, I've spent a fair amount of time reading Kami Garcia's and Maragert Stohl's blogs, and I can say that if Beautiful Creatures is even half as interesting as they appear to be, it'll be pretty darn interesting. And as I've mentioned with a few other of my Waiting on Wednesday picks, I adore old houses and history and a bit of mystery, so this looks great. Plus I cannot wait to know what the powerful secret is.

What's your selection this week?

Teaser Tuesday: Week 12

2009-09-08T23:47:00.001-04:00

Teaser Tuesdays is sponsored by MizB of Should Be Reading. Teaser Tuesdays go like this:

Grab your current read
Open to a random page
Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

My teaser this week:

"She leafed through a few more pages of my file. I had no idea what observation Dr. Hendrickson had immortalized there, and I didn't want to wait around long enough to find out."

--page 147-8, Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick

What's your teaser this Tuesday?

Interview with Carolyn MacCullough

2009-09-08T12:04:00.001-04:00

Today I have the pleasure of introducing Carolyn MacCullough, author of Falling Through Darkness, Stealing Henry, Drawing the Ocean, and most recently, Once a Witch (read my review). Born in Connecticut, she has now moved on to a more exciting life reading, writing, and teaching in New York (not I’m jealous, of course).

-------------

KB: When did you know you wanted to be an author?
CM: Probably in 3rd grade. I won a short story contest for my story about a princess and a dragon and thought hey, this writing thing is fun. It took me awhile though (like 18 years) to stop writing about princesses and dragons!

KB: Why did you decide to write for young adults?
CM: I never consciously set out to write for young adults. I just wrote my first book, Falling Through Darkness, from the perspective of a 17 year old because that was the character in my head. That said, however, I've discovered that teens/young adults happen to be one of the most rewarding and inspirational audiences to write for.

KB: What inspired you to write Once a Witch?
CM: Oh, who doesn't dream of having a special talent or power that sets you apart from the rest of the world? Then I started thinking about a character who was an outcast in her own family since they were all extremely Talented while she was not. Or so she thinks at the beginning of the book...

KB: What sort of research went into your writing?
CM: Lots of time spent on Google! Actually, the most fun sort of research was just to walk around Washington Square Park in New York (where some of the book is set) studying the beautiful architectural details of all those 19th century townhouses. I spent a lot of time imagining what the insides of those places looked like and all the parties that must have gone on.

KB: Do you identify with any of your characters?
CM: Definitely with Tamsin. I think a lot of people feel like a bit of an outsider at certain points in their lives. Tamsin also has a habit of comparing herself (unfavorably) to her beautiful and perfect older sister, Rowena,--I have two older sisters so I definitely did some of that while growing up.

KB: What Talent do you wish you possessed?
CM: Oh, good question! I would like to be able to rewind time--just for a few seconds or a few hours or even a day in case I need to redo something. Then again, interfering with time has disastrous results in the book for Tamsin, so maybe that's too dangerous of a Talent to pick.

KB: Can we expect another book about Tamsin? (I’m crossing my fingers here!)
CM: Yes! I'm working on the sequel right now. It's tentatively titled, Always a Witch and features more time travel, spywork, Talents, and of course, some romance!

KB: *does happy dance*

KB: If you had to pick one song (or maybe two) to associate with Once a Witch, what song would it be?
CM: I love Marco Polo by Loreena McKennitt and also Teardrop by Massive Attack. I listened to those on repeat a lot!

KB: And to finish this up, what was your favorite book as a teen?
CM: Such a hard question! If I had to pick one--The Blue Sword by Robin McKinley. I still reread it every few years.

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Thanks so much for joining us!

Carolyn MacCullough’s latest novel, Once a Witch, goes on sale September 14th. Catch my review here, and make sure to visit the book’s awesome website (with lots of bonus material such as quizzes and the truth about witches) over here.

Once a Witch

2009-09-07T08:39:00.000-04:00

Once a Witch tells the story of Tamsin Green, a member of very Talented witch family. At the time of her birth, Tamsin is predicted to be the most Talented of them all. Now that Tamsin is a teenager, it seems unusual that her abilities never developed, leaving her as the black sheep of the family. When a mysterious stranger shows up at her grandmother’s store asking for help retrieving a valuable heirloom, Tamsin agrees, hoping to prove her self-worth despite a lack of Talent. The same day, Aunt Lydia (a family friend, not really her aunt) and her son, Gabriel, return from California. Gabriel winds up joining Tasmin on her search, and along the way Tasmin gets reacquainted with the childhood friend she didn’t write to for years, realizing that he’s done a lot of growing up during their time apart. Together, Tasmin and Gabriel travel through time uncovering secrets of the Green family’s history and growing closer.

Carolyn MacCullough creates an exciting urban fantasy in Once a Witch. A complex story full of intrigue, romance, power, and conflict, this novel will utterly absorb the reader. I was impressed by the way Carolyn MacCullough cleverly plays with time, weaving an intricate web of clues and adventures for Tamsin and Gabriel. Not a single character in this story is there for padding – even the minor ones are important. Rather than being a classic novel of good-versus-evil, the Green’s shady history leads Tamsin, and with her the reader, to question otherwise accepted truths and individuals’ motivations. Above all, this is a story about discovering one’s identity and protected those you care for. Once a Witch is a thrilling race through time with an enchanting love story that leaves the reader desperate for a sequel. 8 out of 10.

P.S. Once a Witch has a really awesome website including quizzes, a family tree, and information about witches.

In My Mailbox: Week 13

2009-09-06T12:23:00.000-04:00

Moonlight by Rachel Hawthorne (for review) - Kayla is the nature lover, the all-American beauty who can't understand why she's so drawn to distant, brooding Lucas. Adopted as a young child, she has no way of knowing that she's inherited a terrifying—and thrilling—gene that will change her life forever. Lucas is dangerous, gorgeous . . . and a werewolf. As leader of the Dark Guardians, shape-shifters who gather deep within the state park, he has sworn to protect his pack. But when Lucas finds his true soul mate, his love could put them all in harm's way. As Lucas and Kayla struggle with their feelings for each other, a greater danger lurks: Humans have discovered the Dark Guardians and are planning their destruction. Kayla must choose between the life she knows and the love she feels certain is her destiny.

The Hollow by Jessica Verday - When Abbey's best friend, Kristen, vanishes at the bridge near Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, everyone else is all too quick to accept that Kristen is dead?and rumors fly that her death was no accident. Abbey goes through the motions of mourning her best friend, but privately, she refuses to believe that Kristen is really gone. Then she meets Caspian, the gorgeous and mysterious boy who shows up out of nowhere at Kristen's funeral, and keeps reappearing in Abbey's life. Caspian clearly has secrets of his own, but he's the only person who makes Abbey feel normal again...but also special. Just when Abbey starts to feel that she might survive all this, she learns a secret that makes her question everything she thought she knew about her best friend. How could Kristen have kept silent about so much? And could this secret have led to her death? As Abbey struggles to understand Kristen's betrayal, she uncovers a frightening truth that nearly unravels her—one that will challenge her emerging love for Caspian, as well as her own sanity.

The Little Prince by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry - An aviator whose plane is forced down in the Sahara Desert encounters a little prince from a small planet who relates his adventures in seeking the secret of what is important in life.

And such is my mailbox for the week... what about your's?

Interview with Malinda Lo

2009-09-05T13:11:00.004-04:00

So, this is an exciting week, because I get to share with you not one, but TWO interviews. Now I have the honor of introducing one of the ’09 debs, Malinda Lo. Malinda Lo’s novel, Ash, in the most simple of terms is a lesbian retelling of Cinderella. I read and reviewed this one awhile ago, so to hear more about Ash see my review.

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KB: First, can you tell us a little about your road to publishing?
ML: It's been about seven and a half years between first inspiration and my book hitting the shelves, so it's definitely been a long road! To briefly summarize, I wrote three or four drafts of Ash before I even submitted it to agents in 2007. My agent offered to represent me in December 2007; I did another revision for her by January 2008; and we got our first offers in February 2008. Since then, things have been moving at lightning speed, but I still did three revisions along the way. A lot of revising goes into publishing!

KB: Why did you decide to write fiction for young adults?
ML: I actually didn't make a conscious decision to write YA fiction. I simply wrote Ash the way I wanted to write it, and when I was finally ready to submit it to agents, I saw that it fit best within the YA genre. It's actually not so surprising because I was so inspired by other YA fairy tale retellings I read when I was a teen.

KB: The cover of Ash is gorgeous! What role did you play in its cover design?
ML: Pretty much none! I just wrote the book, and the talented Alison Impey took what she read and translated it perfectly into an image. I am so happy with the cover!

KB: Why did you choose the tale of Cinderella?
ML: Cinderella was always my favorite fairy tale when I was a kid. I've also long been a fan of Robin McKinley's fairy tale retellings, and I always wished she would write a retelling of Cinderella. Since she didn't (or hasn't so far), I decided to write the story I've always wanted to read.

KB: How did you decide to make Cinderella a lesbian? Did this make the Cinderella story more difficult to rework?
ML: Well, in the first draft, Ash (the Cinderella character) fell in love with the prince. But then I sent that draft to a friend to read, and she told me she felt that the prince was kinda boring, but this other woman (the huntress) was much more intriguing. I looked closely at the draft and realized that Ash was falling in love with this woman, not the prince. That's when I decided to rewrite it as a "lesbian Cinderella." It didn't make retelling the story any more difficult; in fact, I think it made it easier, because this was the story that was trying to get out of my subconscious.

KB: What was the most challenging part about writing Ash? What about the most rewarding?
ML: Honestly, the most challenging part about the actual writing of Ash was writing the romantic scenes. Writing romance doesn't come easily to me, and I have to spend a lot of time thinking about words and how to spin them into a romantic feeling without becoming overly sweet. Partly as a result of this, I think some of the most rewarding parts are when I finish those scenes and reread them. When they evoke the effect in me that I was aiming for -- that's when it's wonderful.

KB: Can you tell us a bit about what you are working on now?
ML: I am working on a companion novel to Ash. It's set in the same world, but several hundred years earlier, so there are no crossover characters. Or are there? (evil laugh)

KB: What do you do when writer’s block hits?
ML: Well, I usually encounter writer's block when I haven't given enough time to thinking about what I want to happen. Not what I want to write, specifically, but which direction the story should go in. Unfortunately, if I'm on a deadline, I just have to power through it -- I kind of force myself through the trouble spots, writing basically anything, and then go back and rewrite and rewrite and rewrite. This is what I learned from being a reporter. Once there's something on the page, I can go back and work things out and improve it.
If I have a little more time, or if my deadline is a little farther ahead and I encounter writer's block, I'll take a break from it. I'll actually leave my desk and go for a walk in the woods or something. Being away from the computer is very helpful, actually -- sometimes I'll solve the block just by going to sit on the couch and writing longhand for a while. It's mostly about changing the physical situation I'm in, which seems to break through the mental block.

KB: If you had to pick one (or maybe two) song(s) to associate with Ash, what would you pick?
ML: KT Tunstall's "Universe & U" -- I listened to this song repeatedly when writing one scene in Ash. And "Bonfire" by Lamb -- this song makes me think of the character of Sidhean. Kind of creepy and weird. :) And I've created an Ash playlist; you can see it here.

KB: Thank you so much for joining us! I love that playlist for Ash and highlighted it yesterday in my Feed Your Ears post :)

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Malinda Lo’s debut release, Ash, was released this past Tuesday, September 1st, so get it NOW in stores. Also, she keeps a really awesome author blog, which you can find here.

Feed Your Ears XVI: Ash

2009-09-04T23:35:00.004-04:00

To read about the origins of Feed Your Ears, check out my first post.

This week's selection is Malinda Lo's debut, Ash. About a month ago, Malinda Lo posted a playlist of some of the songs she listened to while writing Ash. Today's Feed Your Ears post is going to be a sample from this really great playlist.

1. Moved Through the Fair” by Loreena McKennitt

2. “Far Away” by Martha Wainwright

3. “Lust” by Tori Amos

4. “The Unforgettable Fire” by U2

5. “Universe & U” by KT Tunstall

And to think... there are 14 songs on Malinda Lo's playlist. That means you should head to her blog to check out the Ash playlist in its entirety.

P.S. Check back tomorrow for my interview with Malinda Lo!

Interview with Lauren Baratz-Logsted

2009-09-02T14:54:00.001-04:00

To start off this month full of author interviews, I had the pleasure of introducing Lauren Baratz-Logsted, author (from Connecticut!) of many books for children, teens, and young adults. Her most recent young adult novel is Crazy Beautiful, a modern adaptation of Beauty & the Beast (I posted my review yesterday). For more about Lauren Baratz-Logsted and her writing, check out her website.

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Me: As an accomplished author, can you tell us a little bit about your road to publishing?
LBL: A little bit? I'd need to write a whole book to tell that story! Short version? I left my day job in 1994 to take a chance on myself as a writer. It took me nearly eight years and seven books written before I sold the sixth, an adult novel called THE THIN PINK LINE. I've since sold a total of 20 books to various publishers in various genres and for various age groups.

Me: How did you decide to retell the story of Beauty and the Beast?
LBL: I'd just seen the stage version on Broadway and I got to thinking about how out of all the Disney-fied fairy tales, it makes for the most successful stage and screen adaptations. I started wondering why that would be and decided it's the only one where the male is more than just window dressing for the female. And then I got to thinking how much fun it would be to do a contemporary version where, like the Beast, the male's otherness is a result of his own tragic mistakes and then find a way for him to redeem himself.

Me: Have you considered writing a modern adaptation of any other fairy tales?
LBL: Finally! A question I can give a short answer to! Yes.

Me: Yay! I can’t wait. So, names are important to any story. How did you decide on Lucius for the Beast and Aurora for Beauty?
LBL: Lucius Wolfe - both elements of his name are variations on wolf. Aurora Belle - Aurora is the goddess of the dawn in Roman mythology and Belle of course is beautiful.

Me: The cover of Crazy Beautiful certainly catches the eye. What role did you play in its design?
LBL: Zero! I had absolutely no say in the cover although I did mention I'd like to see something resembling a hook on it. I absolutely love the cover that the artistic design team at Houghton Mifflin Harcourt came up with.

Me: What is the most exciting part of the writing process for you?
LBL: I love it all, but I guess if I had to pick the most exciting it'd be the moment an idea comes and I realize the idea is so big and fresh, at least to me, it can fill a whole book. Wait. Can I pick two most exciting parts? If so, the other would be when I complete the book and realize I've gone the distance in telling the story I wanted to tell in the way I wanted to tell it.

Me: As you write books for all ages, how is writing for teenagers/young adults different than writing for children or adults?
LBL: Teens these days have more demands on their time and distractions than any teens in recent memory. As a result, an author needs to really be on her best game in terms of holding the reader's interest. You need to write tighter. The other big difference I find is the sense of responsibility. I give my readers credit for being intelligent but I still am very careful not to send the wrong messages through my work. I'd hate it if anyone ever jumped off a bridge just because they thought I told them to.

Me: Are you working on anything right now that you can tell us about?
LBL: I'm always working on something! I have two more YA novels scheduled for 2010. THE EDUCATION OF BET, due out in spring 2010, is about a 16-year-old girl in Victorian England who impersonates a boy in order to get a proper education. THE TWIN'S DAUGHTER, also set in Victorian England and due out in fall 2010, is about a teen whose life is changed forever when she discovers her wealthy mother has an identical twin who grew up in the poorhouse. Oh, and 2010 will also see the publication of Books 5 and 6 in THE SISTERS 8, the series for young readers that I've created with my YA novelist husband Greg Logsted - http://www.greglogsted.com/ - and our nine-year-old daughter Jackie. Phew!

Me: Now for a couple of random questions. Do you listen to music while you write? If so, can you tell us a few songs that show up on your playlist most frequently?
LBL: I almost never listen to music when I'm writing although I do listen to "General Hospital" on television every afternoon from three to four. The one exception to the no-music-while-writing rule would be the adult novel VERTIGO which I wrote while repeatedly listening to the sountrack from The Piano.

Me: Now one that seems to be on everyone’s mind: how DO you pronounce your last name?
LBL: HA! Baratz is like Barrett would sound if you made it plural and Logsted is exactly as it looks although for some reason people are always trying to insert the letter 'a' into it. Thanks for having me!

Me: Thanks for joining us!

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Lauren Baratz-Logsted's Crazy Beautiful will be released September 7th. Don't miss out!

Waiting on Wednesday: September 2

2009-09-02T10:14:00.000-04:00

Title: Almost Perfect
Author: Brian Katcher
US Release Date: October 13, 2009

Summary (from Amazon): Logan Witherspoon recently discovered that his girlfriend of three years cheated on him. But things start to look up when a new student breezes through the halls of his small-town high school. Sage Hendricks befriends Logan at a time when he no longer trusts or believes in people. Sage has been homeschooled for a number of years and her parents have forbidden her to date anyone, but she won’t tell Logan why. One day, Logan acts on his growing feelings for Sage. Moments later, he wishes he never had. Sage finally discloses her big secret: she’s actually a boy. Enraged, frightened, and feeling betrayed, Logan lashes out at Sage and disowns her. But once Logan comes to terms with what happened, he reaches out to Sage in an attempt to understand her situation. But Logan has no idea how rocky the road back to friendship will be.

Why I'm interested: Books about relationships from a male perspective seem to be rare, which is really a shame, so I'm looking forward to this one. I also think it should be interesting to see how Brian Katcher deals with gender identities and phobias.

Teaser Tuesday: Week 11

2009-09-01T13:39:00.003-04:00

Teaser Tuesdays is sponsored by MizB of Should Be Reading. Teaser Tuesdays go like this:

Grab your current read
Open to a random page
Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

My teaser this week:

"I couldn't keep my thoughts together.... The vision of him shaking in the woods right before I realized what was happening to him replayed over and over in my head."

--page 143, Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater

What's your teaser this Tuesday?

Crazy Beautiful

2009-09-01T10:31:00.000-04:00

In Crazy Beautiful, Lauren Baratz-Logsted revisits Beauty and the Beast, adapting this tale of love and transformation to a present-day setting. First meet the Beast, Lucius, who lost his hands in an explosion of his own doing. As an act of self-punishment and to keep others at a distance, Lucius chooses to live with hooks rather than prosthetic hands. Now meet Aurora, absolutely radiant, not to mention talented, but unhappy after losing her mother. Both new kids at school, they go in different directions: Lucius becomes a brooding loner while Aurora’s beauty and clothing instantly attract the popular crowd. Nevertheless, small waves and smiles exchanged between the two quickly add up as Lucius realizes that not even his hooks will scare Aurora away. Together, they learn how to forgive, accept, and love.

To start, the cover of Crazy Beautiful is to die for. The stark contrast of the black and white, the unique font, and the smoke give the cover an edgy look that will instantly attract young adults. This fairy tale retelling is fast-paced, with short, to-the-point chapters. Unlike the original tale, the weight of the story is told from Lucius’s point of view. Still, the chapters alternate perspectives, providing the reader with insight from both sides of various situations. Crazy Beautiful is full of raw emotion, as both narrators reveal their fears and insecurities, just like those any teenager tries to hide. Lauren Baratz-Logsted adds a nice touch by complicating the story with the high school’s production Grease and Jessup’s role as a parallel to Gaston. Though I couldn’t pull myself away from this book, I found that the climax resolved itself too quickly. As a result, the end conflict was rather anticlimactic and difficult to believe. Overall, Crazy Beautiful is a well-done modern retelling of Beauty and the Beast that will captivate its readers. 8 of 10.

SEPTEMBER!

2009-09-01T01:54:00.001-04:00

SURPRISE! It's officially September. Well, I suppose that's not much of a surprise, eh? BUT I've decided to try to make September special. And that's kind of a surprise, right? So, I've generally found that September is always a sort of weird time of year, since September means time to return to school. This is good because you get to see friends on a regular basis again, but not so great because homework sucks away lots of time. In order to make the entirety of September a time to look forward to, over the summer I interviewed a bunch of authors with September and October releases (and reviewed those releases for you) so EVERY WEEK you can look forward to an author interview or guest post! To kick off the month, you can expect my interview with Lauren Baratz-Logsted on Wednesday and Malinda Lo on Saturday. Enjoy!

Flashback of the Month V: The Pursuit of Happiness

2009-08-31T23:40:00.006-04:00

For a short explanation and the first Flashback of the Month post, go here. And, yes, I'm getting this in just in time - August is just about over.

After long battle with cancer, Betsy loses her mother and is left feeling lost in Tara Altebrando’s The Pursuit of Happiness. After the funeral, Betsy’s boyfriend dumps her and her best friend disappears from her life. As if things aren’t miserable enough, her summer plans include dressing like an early American to work at a colonial village (all her father’s fault, of course) along with the class freak, Liza. What begins as work soon turns into an escape for Betsy – from her judgmental classmates, from her breakup, from her mother’s death, and from her uncomfortably quiet home. With the help of her co-workers Liza and James, Betsy learns to work her way through the stages of grief and discover hope for normalcy in the future. While she is taught many colonial crafts and means of cooking, it seems that cutting silhouettes out of paper combined with a certain surfer’s woodcarvings are the perfect recipe for beginning to mend a broken heart.

Though sometimes it’s hard to look past the MTV logo, The Pursuit of Happiness is hardly a fluff novel. So, looking past the cover (and the corny “Declare your independence.”), Tara Altebrando’s novel will appeal to fans of Sarah Dessen, Elizabeth Scott, and Susane Colasanti. This is certainly one of the best young adult novels I’ve read that deals with overcoming grief. Betsy is easy to connect to as a reader (and respect, as she turns into a more proactive character), and Tara Altebrando truly succeeds in writing dialogue that sounds like it actually came out of a few teenagers’ mouths. I also love the setting, having always been fascinated by historical villages, and enjoyed this peak into what it could be like working at one. 9 out of 10.

A Shakespearean Summer: Much Ado About Nothing

2009-08-31T22:33:00.002-04:00

Synopsis: Much Ado About Nothing is one of Shakespeare’s romantic comedies. With the encouragement of Don Pedro, a prince from Aragon, Claudio decides to romance Hero, and at a masquerade ball she accepts his hand in marriage. Don Pedro, impatient to wait the week for their wedding, sets forth as a matchmaker with the help of this couple, trying to set up Benedick and Beatrice (who constantly fight with each other). During this time, Don Pedro’s illegitimate half brother, Don John, works to deceive Claudio and trick him into believing Hero was unfaithful.

My thoughts: Though it’s an overused phrase, I think this is a play where lots of characters and situations are thrown together and “hilarity ensues.” Much Ado About Nothing is full of deception, plays on language (pay particular attention to names), and, of course, double entendres. This play was loads of fun to read, and I only wish I could see it performed sometime. At first it was a little difficult to keep all of the characters straight, but a few notes on a post-it took care of that. This is also a great play to read if you want to read one of the first examples (I believe) of the classic boy-and-girl-fight-a-lot then boy-and-girl-realize-they-have-feelings-for-one-another plot line.

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After taking a course all about Shakespeare in the modern day, I’ve become absolutely intrigued by adaptations of Shakespeare’s works and references to Shakespeare in pop culture. So, for these Shakespearean Summer posts, I’ve decided to include other ways to take in Much Ado About Nothing. Here are a few of them:

Béatrice et Bénédict – A nineteenth-century opera by Berlioz that’s loosely based on Much Ado About Nothing. As you might guess by the title, this really focuses on the budding romance between Beatrice/ Béatrice and Benedick/ Bénédict, so the Hero’s supposed infidelity part doesn’t play a role in this opera. The overture is pretty well known :D

ShakespeaRe-Told – Recently discovered this series (thanks Jazz!). The Much Ado About Nothing episode is retold with anchors at a news station. The plot/big ideas seemed more or less consistent until the end.

The Boys Are Coming Home – A musical! Written a few years ago, I think (with admittedly mediocre music). This one’s a modern adaptation, moving the play to 1945 with soldiers returning from after World War II.

In My Mailbox: Week 12

2009-08-30T22:35:00.004-04:00

Sea Glass by Maria V. Snyder - Student glass magician Opal Cowan's newfound ability to steal a magician's powers makes her too powerful. Ordered to house arrest by the Council, Opal dares defy them, traveling to the Moon Clan's lands in search of Ulrick, the man she thinks she loves. Thinks because she is sure another man—now her prisoner—has switched souls with Ulrick. In hostile territory, without proof or allies, Opal isn't sure whom to trust. She can't forget Kade, the handsome Stormdancer who doesn't want to let her get close. And now everyone is after Opal's special powers for their own deadly gain….

The Angel's Game by Carlos Ruiz Zafon - In an abandoned mansion at the heart of Barcelona, a young man, David Martín, makes his living by writing sensationalist novels under a pseudonym. The survivor of a troubled childhood, he has taken refuge in the world of books and spends his nights spinning baroque tales about the city’s underworld. But perhaps his dark imaginings are not as strange as they seem, for in a locked room deep within the house lie photographs and letters hinting at the mysterious death of the previous owner. Like a slow poison, the history of the place seeps into his bones as he struggles with an impossible love. Close to despair, David receives a letter from a reclusive French editor, Andreas Corelli, who makes him the offer of a lifetime. He is to write a book unlike anything that has ever existed—a book with the power to change hearts and minds. In return, he will receive a fortune, and perhaps more. But as David begins the work, he realizes that there is a connection between his haunting book and the shadows that surround his home.

That's it for me. What did you get this week?

A Shakespearean Summer: Othello

2009-08-30T21:48:00.003-04:00

Synopsis: Othello tells the tale of the Moor and general in the Venetian army, Othello. He loves Desdemona and they arrange a secret marriage. In the meanwhile, Iago, a soldier who is under Othello’s command, is jealous, having proposed to Desdemona previously. Combine this jealousy with Iago’s anger over Othello’s choice to promote Cassio over himself, and Iago’s left with a desire for revenge. Iago slowly begins to deceive and twist Othello’s mind so that he begins to destroy his own life.

My thoughts: Unlike my last selection, The Taming of the Shrew, this play isn’t one to enjoy for its humor and witty remarks. Though this play is still full of wit, it is shrewd wit rather than comedic. Iago is probably my favorite character from any of Shakespeare’s plays, not because I like him, but because I’m always impressed by the way he manipulates others. I think that Othello is gripping, and each scene just builds in intensity. Plus, this is really interesting to read in terms of race (if you’re in the mood for a bit of tough thinking and analysis, that is).

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After taking a course all about Shakespeare in the modern day, I’ve become absolutely intrigued by adaptations of Shakespeare’s works and references to Shakespeare in pop culture. So, for these Shakespearean Summer posts, I’ve decided to include other ways to find Othello. Here are some of the more unique ones:

Omkara – Othello meets Bollywood. Enough said.

O – Set in a modern-day high school, where Othello is Odin, the star of the high school basketball team and the only African American at his school. Desdemona is Desi, the dean’s daughter, and Iago is Hugo, the basketball coach’s son. Pretty good film that’s quite intense (especially considering relatively reason school shootings).

All Night Long – A black and white 60’s movie set in London with lots of jazz music. A pretty loose adaptation, but there’s great music.

Feed Your Ears XV: If I Stay

2009-08-28T13:56:00.000-04:00

To read about the origins of Feed Your Ears, check out my first post.

This week my selection is If I Stay by Gayle Forman. I had a blast with this one since I love classical music so much.

1. Cello Concerto in E Minor Op. 85: I. Adagio moderato - Elgar

2. Whole Lotta Love - James Taylor Quartet

3. God Bless the Child - Eva Cassidy

4. Libertango Suite - performed by Yo-Yo Ma

5. Schubert's String Quartet No. 14 minor, D. 810 "Death and the Maiden" : I. Allegro - performed by the Emerson String Quartet

Magic Under Glass Contest

2009-08-26T16:18:00.002-04:00

As you may guess, I am SUPER excited about tenner Jackie Dolamore's Magic Under Glass. So, I was thrilled to find out that she's giving away an ARC of the copy with sketches of the characters, so it's totally unique.

Here's more on Magic Under Glass along with a link to the contest:

Coming 12/22/09 from Bloomsbury...

Nimira is a music-hall girl used to dancing for pennies. So when wealthy sorcerer Hollin Parry hires her to sing accompaniment to a mysterious piano-playing automaton, Nimira believes it will be the start of a better life. In Parry's world, long-buried secrets are about to stir. Unsettling rumors begin to swirl about ghosts, a madwoman roaming the halls, and Parry’s involvement in a group of corrupt sorcerers for whom the rules of the living and dead are meant to be broken for greater power. When Nimira discovers the spirit of a dashing fairy gentleman is trapped within the automaton, she is determined to break the curse. But even as the two fall into a love that seems hopeless, breaking the curse becomes a perilous race against time. Because it's not just the future of these star-crossed lovers that's at stake, but the fate of the entire magical world.

Want to win an ARC with original sketches from the author inside? See http://fabulousfrock.livejournal.com for details!

Waiting on Wednesday: August 26

2009-08-26T14:12:00.001-04:00

Title: Sphinx's Princess

Author: Esther Friesner

US Release Date: September 22, 2009

Summary (from Amazon): Nefertiti may be the dutiful daughter of a commoner, but her inquisitive mind often gets her into situations that are far from ordinary, like receiving secret lessons from a scribe. And she’s the kind of girl who acts first, and apologizes later whenever she witnesses injustice or cruelty. But she is also extraordinarily beautiful. And news of her striking beauty and impulsive behavior attracts the attention of her aunt, the manipulative Queen Tiye, who sees Nefertiti as an ideal pawn in her desire for power. Even though Nefertiti is taken from her beloved family and forced into a life filled with courtly intrigue and danger, her spirit and mind will not rest. She continues to challenge herself and the boundaries of ancient Egyptian society.

Why I'm interested: I love the Nobody's series by her, and I am huge historical fiction fan to begin with. I think her take on Nefertiti should be really interesting.

So many awards, so little time

2009-08-25T21:42:00.015-04:00

Didn't y'all love that show, So Little Time? You know, with the Olsen twins? Uh, but yeah... anyway, to the point of this post:

I've been nominated for two blog awards. Yay!

The Zombie Chicken Award!

From Briana at The Book Pixie and Rachel at The Obsessive Reader. Thank you both! You're so awesome.

The blogger who receives this award believes in the Tao of the zombie chicken - excellence, grace and persistence in all situations, even in the midst of a zombie apocalypse. These amazing bloggers regularly produce content so remarkable that their readers would brave a raving pack of zombie chickens just to be able to read their inspiring words. As a recipient of this world-renowned award, you now have the task of passing it on to at least 5 other worthy bloggers. Do not risk the wrath of the zombie chickens by choosing unwisely or not choosing at all...

So, now for my nominees:
J. Kaye at J. Kaye's Book Blog
Khy at Frenetic Reader
Lauren at Lauren's Crammed Bookshelf
Lenore at Presenting Lenore
Yan at Books By Their Cover

And then I was also nominated for the Lemonade Award a second time by Rachel of The Obsessive Reader. Thank you Rachel!!

The Lemonade Award is a feel good award that shows great attitude or gratitude. Here are the rules for accepting this award:
•Put the Lemonade Award logo on your blog or post.
•Nominate at least 10 blogs that show great attitude or gratitude.
•Link your nominees within your post.
•Let the nominees know they have received this award by commenting on their blog.
•Share the love and link to the person from whom you received the award.

And my Lemonade Award nominees are:
Allison at Read Into This
Alyssa at The Shady Glade
Ashley at Books Obsession
Casey at A Passion for Books
Faye at Ramblings of a Teenage Bookworm
Laina at Laina Has Too Much Spare Time
Lee Verday at Lee A Verday's Book/Writing Blog
Rebecca at Everything To Do With Books
Rebecca at Rebecca's Book Blog
Taschima at Bloody Bookaholic

All of the blogs mentioned in this post are totally awesome, so you should check them out, comment on some posts, that sort of thing. :)

Teaser Tuesday: Week 10

2009-08-25T21:18:00.000-04:00

Teaser Tuesdays is sponsored by MizB of Should Be Reading. Teaser Tuesdays go like this:

Grab your current read
Open to a random page
Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

My teaser this week:

"It was my nemesis Prince Siegfried, of the house of Hohenzollen-Sigmaringen, whom everyone expected me to marry.... I'd been whisked back to Scotland not to solve any crime but to be thrust together with the man I so vehemently avoided."

--page 87, Royal Flush by Rhys Bowen

What was your teaser this Tuesday?

In My Mailbox: Week 11

2009-08-23T23:42:00.003-04:00

In My Mailbox was created by Kristi from The Story Siren. Here's what I found in my mailbox, at the bookstore, and at the library these last two weeks. Summaries are taken from Amazon, B&N, and GoodReads.

I seem to be having an issue uploading photos on Blogger, so no pictures this week. Sorry!

My Name is Will by Jess Winfield (won in a contest by A Journey of Books) - A Tale of two Shakespeares... Struggling UC Santa Cruz grad student Willie Shakespeare Greenberg is trying to write his thesis about the Bard. Kind of... Cut off by his father for laziness, and desperate for dough, Willie agrees to deliver a single giant, psychedelic mushroom to a mysterious collector, making himself an unwitting target in Ronald Reagan's War on Drugs. Meanwhile, would-be playwright (and oppressed Catholic) William Shakespeare is eighteen years old and stuck teaching Latin in the boondocks of Stratford-upon-Avon. The future Bard's life is turned upside down when a stranger entrusts him with a sacred relic from Rome... This, at a time when adherents of the "Old Faith" are being hanged, drawn, and quartered as traitors. Seemingly separated in time and place, the lives of Willie and William begin to intersect in curious ways, from harrowing encounters with the law (and a few ex-girlfriends) to dubious experiments with mind-altering substances. Their misadventures could be dismissed as youthful folly. But wise or foolish, the bold choices they make will shape not only the 'Shakespeare' each is destined to come... but the very course of history itself.

Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater (ARC from 1 ARC Tours) - For years, Grace has watched the wolves in the woods behind her house. One yellow-eyed wolf--her wolf--is a chilling presence she can't seem to live without. Meanwhile, Sam has lived two lives: In winter, the frozen woods, the protection of the pack, and the silent company of a fearless girl. In summer, a few precious months of being human . . . until the cold makes him shift back again. Now, Grace meets a yellow-eyed boy whose familiarity takes her breath away. It's her wolf. It has to be. But as winter nears, Sam must fight to stay human--or risk losing himself, and Grace, forever.

Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick (ARC for review) - For Nora Grey, romance was not part of the plan. She's never been particularly attracted to the boys at her school, no matter how much her best friend, Vee, pushes them at her. Not until Patch came along. With his easy smile and eyes that seem to see inside her, Nora is drawn to him against her better judgment. But after a series of terrifying encounters, Nora's not sure who to trust. Patch seems to be everywhere she is, and to know more about her than her closest friends. She can't decide whether she should fall into his arms or run and hide. And when she tries to seek some answers, she finds herself near a truth that is way more unsettling than anything Patch makes her feel. For Nora is right in the middle of an ancient battle between the immortal and those that have fallen - and, when it comes to choosing sides, the wrong choice will cost her life.

Once Was Lost by Sara Zarr (ARC for review) - Samara Taylor used to believe in miracles. She used to believe in a lot of things. As a pastor's kid, it's hard not to buy in to the idea of the perfect family, a loving God, and amazing grace. But lately, Sam has a lot of reason to doubt. Her mother lands in rehab after a DUI and her father seems more interested in his congregation than his family. When a young girl in her small town is kidnapped, the local tragedy overlaps with Sam's personal one, and the already-worn thread of faith holding her together begins to unravel.

Godmother: The Secret Cinderella Story by Carolyn Turgeon (ARC) - Lil is an old woman who spends her days shelving rare books in a tiny Manhattan bookstore and lonely nights at home in her apartment. But Lil has an intriguing secret. Tucked and bound behind her back are white feathery wings–the only key to who she once was: the fairy godmother responsible for getting Cinderella to the ball to unite with her Prince Charming. But on that fateful night, something went terribly and beautifully wrong. Lil allowed herself the unthinkable: to feel the emotions of human beings and fall in love with the prince herself, going to the ball in place of Cinderella in her exquisitely gorgeous human guise. For her unforgivable mistake, she was banished to live among humans, far from her fairy sisters and their magical underwater world. But then one day she meets Veronica–a young, fair-skinned, flame-haired East Village beauty with a love of all things vintage and a penchant for falling in love with the wrong men–and suddenly it becomes clear to Lil that she’s been given a chance at redemption. If she can find a soul mate for Veronica, she may right her wrong and return to the fairy world she so deeply longs for. . . .

Twenties Girl by Sophie Kinsella - Lara Lington has always had an overactive imagination, but suddenly that imagination seems to be in overdrive. Normal professional twenty-something young women don’t get visited by ghosts. Or do they? When the spirit of Lara’s great-aunt Sadie–a feisty, demanding girl with firm ideas about fashion, love, and the right way to dance–mysteriously appears, she has one last request: Lara must find a missing necklace that had been in Sadie’s possession for more than seventy-five years, and Sadie cannot rest without it. Lara, on the other hand, has a number of ongoing distractions. Her best friend and business partner has run off to Goa, her start-up company is floundering, and she’s just been dumped by the “perfect” man. Sadie, however, could care less. Lara and Sadie make a hilarious sparring duo, and at first it seems as though they have nothing in common. But as the mission to find Sadie’s necklace leads to intrigue and a new romance for Lara, these very different “twenties” girls learn some surprising truths from each other along the way.

That's my mailbox! What did you find in your's this week?

Back again...

2009-08-22T20:31:00.002-04:00

and it looks like I have a ton to catch up on. My flight got in really late last night (curse those stupid storms) so I spent most of today sleeping late and then unpacking. Anyway, thanks for continuing to visit while I was gone! I was thrilled to come home to a bunch of books to review, lots of comments, and two blog awards. Sooooo... I'll get to that all tomorrow (yeah, I know, I'm lazy right now). Keep reading! :D

GUEST POST BY LISA MANTCHEV: Feed Your Ears XIV: Eyes Like Stars

2009-08-21T20:15:00.009-04:00

Today's Feed Your Ears post is super special :) That's because Lisa Mantchev is visiting! Her novel, Eyes Like Stars, was released this July, and I'm thrilled that she was willing to put a playlist together for us to go with the book.

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Lisa Mantchev's Eyes Like Stars playlist with her commentary:

1. "Eyes Like Stars" - Faulter - Darling Buds of May

I found this song only after we retitled the novel... I think it speaks for itself (and is especially shiny, given that "Darling buds of May" is a Shakespearean reference.)

2. "The Chairman's Waltz" - John Williams - Memoirs of a Geisha soundtrack

This is the music that would accompany Bertie and the fairies moving past the velvet curtains, around the half-lit backstage area, in the places only they really know about at the Théâtre.

3. "Moonlight Serenade" - Klaus Badelt - Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl soundtrack

Nate's entrance song.

4 and 5. "The Wedding Samba" - Edmundo Ros & His Rumba Band and "Je Chante" - Charles Trenet - A Good Year soundtrack

Two numbers I'm pretty sure Mr. Hastings would play on the Victrola in the Properties Department.

6. "Koop Island Blues" - Koop, featuring Ane Brun - Koop Islands

Very "By The Sea"-esque (you know your Sweeney Todd, yes?) and something I can hear playing in the background as Bertie and the fairies frolic in old-fashioned flannel bathing costumes at the seaside set.

7. "Falling Slowly" - Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova - Once soundtrack

Bertie and Nate, summed up in a song.

8. "The Assassins' Tango" - John Powell - Mr. & Mrs. Smith soundtrack

Bertie and Ariel's Tango Music

9. "The Only One"/"Call Me When You're Sober" - Evanescence - The Open Door

The sort of music Bertie probably would have listened to when mad at either one of the boys, had she an iPod.

10. "Prendersi per mano" - Cirque Du Soleil - Corteo soundtrack

Almost ALL the Cirque music instantly transports me to the stage... it's very theatrical and evocative... this soundtrack and the other Cirque music comes even more into play for Perchance To Dream

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So, I think this is one AWESOME playlist. Thank you so much Lisa! Plus, Lisa put together this awesome playlist so you can listen to most of the songs:

If you haven't already, check out Lisa Mantchev's Eyes Like Stars, already on shelves, and the Theatre Illuminata website.

Eyes Like Stars

2009-08-20T15:14:00.006-04:00

All Beatrice (Bertie) Shakespeare Smith knows is the Théâtre Illuminata. At the Théâtre, players are born to fill their particular role, bound to the building itself by The Book. Bertie has no idea who her parents are; just that she was left at the Théâtre to be taken care of. Despite not being a player, at the Théâtre she feels like she belongs. Living with the stage as her bedroom and the four fairies from Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream as her closest companions, Bertie grows up to love the written word, action, and chaos (well, maybe she doesn’t love chaos but she can’t seem to help but create it). Unfortunately, it’s this attraction to disaster that constantly gets Bertie in trouble. When it finally goes too far, Bertie needs to find out what makes her indispensible before she loses her home and her family.

Lisa Mantchev’s Eyes Like Stars is a truly unique new fantasy. Though the beginning of the novel was a bit confusing, it didn’t take very long to become engrossed in Bertie’s story. Eyes Like Stars weaves script with narrative, so that Bertie’s story can’t be told without both. Along these lines, I love how Lisa Mantchev emphasizes the power of words and blurs the distinction between what is written and what is real. Plays that are likely familiar to the reader (such as Hamlet) come to life, and even with such liberty, Lisa Mantchev manages to stay true to the nature of each character. Though sometimes irksome, the four fairies from Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream increase the hilarity of the story so that the reader can’t help but laugh. As the scenes unfold, the charismatic yet dangerous Ariel (from Shakespeare’s The Tempest) enters the story, as does the modest and kind pirate Nate (from The Little Mermaid). It is particularly interesting to read how they play off of each other as they vie for Bertie’s attention. Overall, Eyes Like Stars is a really enjoyable read once you get past the very beginning. The characters are wonderful, and the imagination that went into this story is incredible. As the first installment in a trilogy, I was pleased to say that the end of Eyes Like Stars felt resolved enough to leave the reader satisfied while leaving plenty of storylines hanging in order to build anticipation for Act II. 8 out of 10.

P.S. Check back tomorrow for Lisa Mantchev's Eyes Like Stars playlist!

Waiting on Wednesday: August 19

2009-08-19T12:36:00.000-04:00

Title: Winter's Child
Author: Cameron Dokey
Series: Once Upon a Time
US Release date: September 8, 2009

Summary (from GoodReads): Kai and Grace are best friends who live in adjoining homes. But when Kai declares his love for Grace, everything changes. Grace years for freedom and pushes away Kai - and their friendship. Dejected Kai dreams of a dazzling Snow Queen, who entices him to leave home and wander to faraway lands. When Grace discovers Kai is gone, she learns how much she has lost - and sets out on a mystical journey to find him...and discover herself.

Why I'm interested: I've read every book in the Once Upon a Time series that's been released so far. Cameron Dokey's are some of my favorites. I like that this is a retelling of "The Snow Queen" because it's a fairy tale I know but am not too well familiar with.

Interview with Amy Efaw

2009-08-18T12:35:00.003-04:00

Today I have the pleasure of sharing with you all my first author interview :) So without further ado, I welcome Amy Efaw, author of Battle Dress and After. A mother of five, I’m impressed that she has any time to write, let alone do a ton of radio interviews (read more about those on her blog) and even respond to me :D. Amy Efaw’s most recent novel for young adults, After, does a fantastic job dealing with the “Dumpster baby” phenomenon (see my review from yesterday for more on the book).

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KB: What was your inspiration for After?
AE: I first got the idea for AFTER while living in Philadelphia with my law student husband and then 3 little kids, all under the age of 5. One cold winter day, the big news story in Philly was of an off-duty police officer and his pit bull. During their early morning walk, they stumbled across a live baby in a trash bag that was left at the curb. That incident got me thinking about the issue – how could someone do something like that? And why? Then a couple of years later, I had just published my first book for teens, BATTLE DRESS, and I was trying to figure out the topic of my next novel. We were living in Washington State, I was pregnant with my fifth child, and my Army prosecutor husband got his own “Dumpster baby” case to try! At that point, I just knew that I had to write a novel involving the “Dumpster baby” phenomenon.

KB: How did you choose the title?
AE: Actually, the working title I used while I was writing the book was AFTER BIRTH (which I thought was perfect – gritty and graphic, but also clever because of its double meaning). But my publisher thought it was just too icky (“afterbirth” – one word – is another term for “placenta,” and my publisher felt that too many people would’ve been grossed out by that title). So, we tossed around many different ideas, which just weren’t working for one reason or another. And then one day, my amazing editor Joy Peskin and some of the other “decision-makers” at Viking were meeting around some conference room table (at least, that’s how I imagine it happened), and they came up with the simple, but intriguing, title AFTER. And I really liked it, too!
In fact, Joy emailed me about their choice right after the meeting, hoping I’d like it. She wrote, “And, hey “After” is half of your original title :)!”

KB: When did you start writing?
AE: When did I start writing, period? Well, one day in junior high, my 7th grade English teacher called me up after class. She told me she was so impressed with one of the creative writing stories I had turned in to her, that she wanted to submit it for publication. That was the first seed – a teacher telling me I wrote well. A couple of years later in high school, I started writing a novel, but I never finished it. Over the years, I’d write poetry just for myself. But I seriously considered trying to become a writer when I became a mom. I’d sit around in the children’s section of this really cool Borders Bookstore in Philadelphia and read picture books to my kids, and I thought, “Hey! I can do this!” So, I got to work.
I wrote a couple of picture book manuscripts first and sent them off to publishers. But I didn’t have much luck besides collecting rejection letters. But I didn’t give up. Then I attended a weeklong children’s writer’s conference in Chautauqua, New York (I had won a full-ride scholarship to it), and when I returned home all inspired, I started a novel, based on my experience as a female cadet at West Point. It sold before I had even finished it! That was my first book for teens, BATTLE DRESS.

KB: Why did you choose to write for teens?
AE: I might get into trouble for saying this, but I’m going to do it anyway – I think in many ways you have to be a better writer to hold a teen’s attention than an adult’s. We young adult authors have a lot of competition – video games and MySpace and TV and iPods and text messaging, etc. If we don’t grab our audience right away, our book will be tossed, relegated to some corner in a closet or under the bed, never to be cracked again. Adults tend to be more patient when they read; they’ll give a book more time to draw them in.
Also, I believe that teens tend to be more open to new ideas than adults tend to be. Not that I write with an agenda in mind, but as an author, I think it’s a powerful thing to possibly affect the way people look at a particular issue or expose them to a new concept.

KB: What do you hope readers will get out of reading After?
AE: Of course I’d like to bring more awareness to the “Dumpster baby” issue. But even more than that, I’d hope AFTER encourages readers to get involved in other people’s lives. Don’t sit by when your friends withdraw into themselves or change. Take a risk, step up, and ask, “What’s going on with you?” OR “I’m worried about you.” And don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it. Life can be tough; we need to help each other get through it when we can.

KB: Are you working on anything right now?
AE: Yep, I’ve started working on my next novel for teens. It’ll be another psychological, “get into the head” type story. The going is kind of slow at the moment since AFTER is just coming out, and I’ve been bombarded with tons of radio and blog interview requests, so I’ve been funneling my time in that direction lately. I get distracted very easily, unfortunately! And having five busy kids, my writing often gets shoved onto the back burner.

KB: Thanks, now for a few random questions. Since it’s August, what’s your favorite summer food?
AE: I really love a good burger, grilled out. Lots of ketchup. And ice cream – anything with chocolate. I have a couple of really cool ice cream shops within walking distance of my house in North Denver, so that’s been my vice this summer – taking a walk in the evenings with my husband, Andy, and stopping to grab a scoop!

KB: What song is playing in your head the most right now?
AE: “Paper Planes” by M.I.A.

KB: What question do you wish you were asked more often?
AE: “So, when is that next book coming out?” Because I could always use that extra kick in the butt to stay on task!
KB: Haha, I’m sure we’ll all have to keep that in mind ;) Thanks so much for visiting and best of luck to you.

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After was released just last week - August 11th - so that means you don’t even have to wait to get a copy. And for even more about Amy Efaw, visit her website and check out this website for After.

Catching Fire contest

2009-08-17T16:17:00.002-04:00

Since I reached 100 blog posts and 75 followers and I'm super excited, I've decided it's time to celebrate. So, one of you lucky readers will be receiving my copy of... Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins.

To enter, just leave a comment below including your email address so that I can get in touch if you win. I'm a poor college kid, so unfortunately I have to say that I can only mail to U.S. addresses.

For extra entries (lots of 'em):

+1 if you tell me the best book you've read this summer

+2 if you become a follower

+3 if you already were a follower

+2 if you add me to your blog roll

+2 for each time you blog about/link to/twitter about this contest (unlimited amount of times)

+3 if you comment on one of my reviews or interview

+2 if you comment on a Feed Your Ears playlist

So... Ready, set, GO! This contest will end September 5th.

After

2009-08-17T11:05:00.005-04:00

First, I just HAVE to share the captivating book trailer that Penguin released:

After tells the story of Devon, a girl who was once a completely normal teenager. Scratch that – Devon was never just normal. She was a hardworking straight-A student with an undeniable talent for soccer who as a high school student acted as mature as a college grad. Then one day a newborn baby appears abandoned in a dumpster – the same day that Devon is home sick. It’s not long before the connection is made, identifying the baby as Devon’s and leaving her with multiple criminal charges, the most serious of which being attempted homicide.

I’ve always been horrified and almost disgusted by the concept of dumpster babies, so After really opened my mind. I was incredibly impressed by Amy Efaw’s ability to make Devon a sympathetic character, especially considering that After isn’t even narrated directly by Devon. Amy Efaw creates a likeable though desperate protagonist who is not yet sixteen to make the issue far more complex than today’s media generally makes it out to be. Especially due to the emphasis put on intent, the courtroom scenes were fascinating, and as a reader it felt like you were there in the courtroom with Devon and Dom.

After makes great use of flashbacks to slowly reveal the entire story behind Devon’s pregnancy and her baby’s birth. These flashbacks truly contribute to the novel’s intensity without confusing the reader. Amy Efaw’s characters, especially Devon and her mother, felt very realistic, even when, in the case of Devon’s mother, they weren’t always likeable. I was really moved by the ending and impressed by Devon’s maturity, something you can hardly say about many the protagonists in many young adult novels. Though I only finished reading After a few hours before writing this review, I can say honestly say that I haven’t been able to get my mind off of the book since finishing it. The questions posed by After are incredibly thought provoking, and I expect to continue thinking it over for some time to come. I should warn you, though. After is a gritty novel about a sensitive subject and some of the excerpts are graphic. I believe readers need to approach After knowing you’re in for a serious read in order to really appreciate it. I give it a 9 out of 10.

P.S. Check back tomorrow for an interview with Amy Efaw!!
P.P.S. Don’t you love the cover? The subtlety of the girl’s reflection is ingenious.

In My Mailbox: Week 10

2009-08-16T13:37:00.008-04:00

The Awakening by Kelley Armstrong - If you had met me a few weeks ago, you probably would have described me as an average teenage girl—someone normal. Now my life has changed forever and I'm as far away from normal as it gets. A living science experiment—not only can I see ghosts, but I was genetically altered by a sinister organization called the Edison Group. What does that mean? For starters, I'm a teenage necromancer whose powers are out of control; I raise the dead without even trying. Trust me, that is not a power you want to have. Ever. Now I'm running for my life with three of my supernatural friends—a charming sorcerer, a cynical werewolf, and a disgruntled witch—and we have to find someone who can help us before the Edison Group finds us first. Or die trying.

Distant Waves: A Novel of the Titanic by Suzanne Weyn - Science, spiritualism, history, and romance intertwine in Suzanne Weyn's newest novel. Four sisters and their mother make their way from a spiritualist town in New York to London, becoming acquainted with journalist W. T. Stead, scientist Nikola Tesla, and industrialist John Jacob Astor. When they all find themselves on the Titanic, one of Tesla's inventions dooms them...and one could save them.

Along for the Ride by Sarah Dessen (ARC, won in a contest by Jennifer of YABOOKNERD) - It’s been so long since Auden slept at night. Ever since her parents’ divorce—or since the fighting started. Now she has the chance to spend a carefree summer with her dad and his new family in the charming beach town where they live. A job in a clothes boutique introduces Auden to the world of girls: their talk, their friendship, their crushes. She missed out on all that, too busy being the perfect daughter to her demanding mother. Then she meets Eli, an intriguing loner and a fellow insomniac who becomes her guide to the nocturnal world of the town. Together they embark on parallel quests: for Auden, to experience the carefree teenage life she’s been denied; for Eli, to come to terms with the guilt he feels for the death of a friend.

Eyes Like Stars by Lisa Mantchev (ARC from 1 ARC Tours) - All her world's a stage. Beatrice Shakespeare Smith is not an actress, yet she lives in a theater. She is not an orphan, but she has no parents. She knows every part, but has no lines of her own. Until now. Welcome to the Théâtre Illuminata, where the characters of every place ever written can be found behind the curtain. They were born to play their parts, and are bound to the Théâtre by The Book—an ancient and magical tome of scripts. Bertie is not one of them, but they are her family—and she is about to lose them all and the only home she has ever known.

After by Amy Efaw (ARC from 1 ARC Tours) - An infant left in the trash to die. A teenage mother who never knew she was pregnant . . . Before That Morning, these were the words most often used to describe straight-A student and star soccer player Devon Davenport: responsible, hardworking, mature. But all that changes when the police find Devon home sick from school as they investigate the case of an abandoned baby. Soon the connection is made—Devon has just given birth; the baby in the trash is hers. After That Morning, there's only one way to define Devon: attempted murderer.

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins (ARC for review) - Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has won the annual Hunger Games with fellow district tribute Peeta Mellark. But it was a victory won by defiance of the Capitol and their harsh rules. Katniss and Peeta should be happy. After all, they have just won for themselves and their families a life of safety and plenty. But there are rumors of rebellion among the subjects, and Katniss and Peeta, to their horror, are the faces of that rebellion. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge.

So there you have it, my mailbox for the last two weeks. What found its way into your hands this week?

Feed Your Ears XIII: Taken By Storm

2009-08-14T09:53:00.001-04:00

To read about the origins of Feed Your Ears, check out my first post.

This week for my Feed Your Ears post, I've picked Taken By Storm by Angela Morrison.

1. Weather the Storm - Craig Armstrong

2. Storm at Sea from The Little Mermaid (instrumental)

3. I'm Not Really Sure - The Superfallingstars

4. How to Save a Life - The Fray

5. Rescued - Jack's Mannequin

Just returned, but gone again

2009-08-13T17:29:00.001-04:00

Hey everyone. I know I only got back earlier this week, but I have to say goodbye again (only for one week though!). This time, I'm headed to California for a week (to visit the boyfriend who's being stupid and studying abroad all fall). I'm hoping blogger will actually cooperate this time around, so that there are posts every day for you guys. Since I feel bad leaving again, especially so soon, I've made sure to have lots of interesting stuff going up while I'm gone... reviews for After by Amy Efaw and Eyes Like Stars by Lisa Mantchev, an interview (my first!) with Amy Efaw, and a guest post by Lisa Mantchev (a playlist for Eyes Like Stars). Plus, because I was so excited to find that while I was gone, I hit 100 posts and reached 75 followers, I will be announcing a special contest next week so stay tuned :D

Lemonade Award

2009-08-12T22:11:00.007-04:00

Thank you thank you thank you to OIKZ from Strange Epiphanies for my first blog award! It's the lemonade award for bloggers who display and portray great attitude or gratitude. I am so honored to be nominated for this award. Now it's my turn to nominate 10 other bloggers, and I couldn't be more excited to spread the love (especially since there seems to be a lack of love recently in the blogosphere). I had a really hard time narrowing it down, but here are ten magnificent bloggers who totally deserve the lemonade award:

Alex and Lauren from A Flight of Minds

Briana, Arielle, and Marisa from B.A.M. Book Reviews

Kristen from Bookworming in the 21st Century

Steph Bowe from Hey! Teenager Of The Year

Jazz from Miss Danaidae

Zia from My Life In Not So Many Words

Lauren from Shooting Stars Mag

Steph Su from Steph Su Reads

Briana from The Book Pixie

Harmony from Harmony Book Reviews

Waiting on Wednesday: August 12

2009-08-12T09:48:00.000-04:00

Title: Candor

Author: Pam Bachorz

US Release date: September 22, 2009

Summary (from GoodReads): Oscar Banks has everything under control. In a town where his father brainwashes everyone, he's found a way to secretly fight the subliminal Messages. He's got them all fooled: Oscar's the top student and the best-behaved teen in town. Nobody knows he's made his own Messages to deprogram his brain. Oscar has even found a way to get rich. For a hefty price, he helps new kids escape Candor, Florida before they're transformed into cookie-cutter teens. But then Nia Silva moves to Candor, and Oscar's carefully-controlled world crumbles.

Why I'm interested: I like stories where the main character fights the norm (i.e. Scott Westerfeld's books) and I love a book that features a bit of dangerous. This book has a whole lot of both, plus it has a fantastic-looking cover.

Teaser Tuesday: Week 9

2009-08-11T23:16:00.003-04:00

Teaser Tuesdays is sponsored by MizB of Should Be Reading. Teaser Tuesdays go like this:

Grab your current read
Open to a random page
Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

This week, since I don't want to give away too much, my teaser is only one sentence long. So, without further ado...

"Trusting him, even for one second, was the stupidest thing I've ever done."

--page 191, Eyes Like Stars by Lisa Mantchev

What was your teaser this Tuesday?

I'm Back!

2009-08-11T22:02:00.009-04:00

Hey everyone! I'm back from Disney World and I had a FANTASTIC time, though of course I missed you all. I figured I'm share a few photos from my trip...

^Here's the view from the balcony of our first room at Animal Kingdom Lodge's Kidani Village. First, notice how long that is. That was only half of the walk from the lobby! I doubt anyone'll believe me, but it was a quarter of a mile walk to get to our room.

^The best part of the room (other than the Lion King theme) was the savannah view, where I could see animals like these.

^Yup, that's me on the balcony (note the slightly crooked smile that I can't seem to get rid of, so instead I decided to think it builds character).

^While there, we also went out for some mother-daughter tea. In my hand is the Mad Hatter blend - a black tea that blends passion fruit, pomegranate, and vanilla.

^Super-awesome pool at the Beach Club - 3 acres with a sand bottom and a big pirate ship of a water slide

^This was my favorite reading spot. I wish those shelves had been filled with books though!

So, there you go! Some snapshots into my trip. Since I was having some issues with my digital camera, a bunch of my photos were just taken on a disposable one, so these photos will have to do. Thanks for checking in while I was gone and I can't wait to get back into blogging (well, for a couple of days at least until I head off to another sunny place, but I'll fill you all in about that at the end of the week).

In My Mailbox: Week 9

2009-08-09T16:08:00.000-04:00

Since I haven't been home this week, I have no clue what's been in my mailbox this week. But that just means twice as much for next week's post!

Feed Your Ears XII: Kiss Me Kill Me

2009-08-07T13:08:00.000-04:00

To read about the origins of Feed Your Ears, check out my first post.

So for this week I've picked Kiss Me Kill Me by Lauren Henderson.

1. Secrets - Bloc Party

2. A Little Less Sixteen Candles, A Little More Touch Me - Fall Out Boy

3. Mr. Kiss Kiss Bang Bang - Dionne Warwick

4. Hide and Seek - Imogen Heap

5. Killing Lies - The Strokes

Laura Resau Love

2009-08-06T11:28:00.004-04:00

First of all, much love to author Laura Resau for not only linking to my review of Red Glass, but sharing my review with the readers of her blog. :)

And since I've stopped being a lazy butt and have finally started working my way down the long checklist of things I have to write, I have finally finished said review by writing my own summary. You can find the entire review here, but for those of you just wondering what Red Glass is about, look no further:

High school student Sophie had no idea how much her life would change after her family received a phone call, bringing them to a nearby hospital. There they found the six-year-old Pablo, the only survivor of a group of Mexicans attempting to cross the Arizona border. The young Pablo quickly becomes a member – Sophie’s Principito, her Little Prince. A year later, contact is made with Pablo’s remaining family, and so Sophie joins her Aunt Dika, Dika’s boyfriend Mr. Lorenzo, and Mr. Lorenzo’s son Angel on a journey to rejoin Pablo with the only family he has left. Along the way, Sophie is torn knowing the decision Pablo must make and recognizing the risks she faces by allowing herself to get close to Angel.

Waiting on Wednesday: August 5

2009-08-05T02:28:00.002-04:00

Title: Bleeding Violet
Author: Dia Reeves
US Release date: January 5, 2010

Summary (from Amazon.com): Love can be a dangerous thing.... Hanna simply wants to be loved. With a head plagued by hallucinations, a medicine cabinet full of pills, and a closet stuffed with frilly, violet dresses, Hanna's tired of being the outcast, the weird girl, the freak. So she runs away to Portero, Texas in search of a new home. But Portero is a stranger town than Hanna expects. As she tries to make a place for herself, she discovers dark secrets that would terrify any normal soul. Good thing for Hanna, she's far from normal. As this crazy girl meets an even crazier town, only two things are certain: Anything can happen and no one is safe.

Why I'm interested: 1. It's another tenner! yay! 2. All of the secrecy sounds really interesting, and the summary totally leaves me hanging wondering exactly what's up with Hanna and what exactly makes her not-so normal. 3. I like violet dresses.

So, what book are you waiting on?

Teaser Tuesday: Week 8

2009-08-04T00:19:00.002-04:00

Teaser Tuesdays is sponsored by MizB of Should Be Reading. Teaser Tuesdays go like this:

Grab your current read
Open to a random page
Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

This week, my teaser is...

"So I let Dr. Davidoff blather on, telling me about their study, about the other
kids, about how we'd be 'fixed' and out of here in no time. And I smiled and
nodded and started making my own plans."

--page 26, The Awakening by Kelley Armstrong

What's your teaser today?

The Happiest Place in the World

2009-08-03T17:17:00.001-04:00

Hello lovlies. So, as sad as I am to say goodbye to my blog for a week, I am super super super excited to be going to Disney. Some people seem to think that once you're like over 13 it's no longer cool to go to Disney World, but I think they're stupid. I mean, I love that my mom is in love with Disney because it means we head to Florida every couple of summers and I get to see lots of Disney princesses. And of course I get to spend time pretending I tan. But anyway, I'm sure you're not interested in my ramblings (*breaks out into Led Zeppelin's Ramble On*). I've set up posts for every day that I'm gone so it will almost be like I'm really here. Except not quite because I won't be contactable (is that a word?) until next Monday night. I'm going to try to borrow my Dad's laptop to check emails quickly a few times while we're away so if there's something important I'll probably see, but in general you won't hear from me again for real for a week. Soooo... yes. That's all.

In My Mailbox: Week 8

2009-08-02T11:55:00.006-04:00

In My Mailbox was created by Kristi from The Story Siren. Here's what I found in my mailbox, at the bookstore, and at the library this week. Summaries are taken from Amazon, B&N, and GoodReads.

Sea Change by Aimee Freidman - 16-year-old Miranda Merchant is great at science...and not so great with boys. After major drama with her boyfriend and (now ex) best friend, she's happy to spend the summer on small, mysterious Selkie Island, helping her mother sort out her late grandmother's estate. There, Miranda finds new friends and an island with a mysterious, mystical history, presenting her with facts her logical, scientific mind can't make sense of. She also meets Leo, who challenges everything she thought she knew about boys, friendship...and reality. Is Leo hiding something? Or is he something that she never could have imagined?

The Wedding Girl by Madeleine Wickham - At the age of eighteen, in that first golden Oxford summer, Milly was up for anything. Rupert and his American lover, Allan, were an important part of her new, exciting life, so when Rupert suggested to her that she and Allan should get married to keep Allan in the country, Milly didn’t hesitate. Ten years later, Milly is a very different person and engaged to Simon—who is wealthy, serious, and believes her to be perfect. Milly’s secret history is locked away so securely she has almost persuaded herself that it doesn’t exist—until, only four days before her elaborate wedding. To have and to hold takes on a whole new meaning when one bride’s past catches up with her and bring the present crashing down.

Flash Burnout by L.K. Madigan (ARC) - Fifteen-year-old Blake has a girlfriend and a friend who’s a girl. One of them loves him; the other one needs him. When he snapped a picture of a street person for his photography homework, Blake never dreamed that the woman in the photo was his friend Marissa’s long-lost meth addicted mom. Blake’s participation in the ensuing drama opens up a world of trouble, both for him and for Marissa. He spends the next few months trying to reconcile the conflicting roles of Boyfriend and Friend. His experiences range from the comic (surviving his dad’s birth control talk) to the tragic (a harrowing after-hours visit to the morgue). In a tangle of life and death, love and loyalty, Blake will emerge with a more sharply defined snapshot of himself.

That's my collection for the week. What books did pick up?

Storm Glass

2009-08-01T19:38:00.004-04:00

After selecting Maria V. Snyder's Sea Glass as my pick for this week's Waiting on Wednesday post, I figured it was about time that I post my review for Storm Glass.

Despite being a uniquely talented glassmaker and apprentice to a Master Magician, Opal Cowen is always questioning her magical abilities. When the glass orbs of the Stormdancers begin to explode, killing several clan powerful members, Opal is forced to gain confidence in her own abilities in order to help save these weather-controlling orbs and discover who is behind such sabotage. Before long, Opal realizes that she carries more power than she ever believed. With the help and protection of many others, including Ulrick, a childhood family friend, and Kade, a Stormdancer who lost his sister to a faulty orb, Opal faces her fears in this novel of magic, adventure, and romance.

Maria V. Snyder’s Storm Glass returns to the world(s) of the Study series without the novel feeling repetitive. Though both somehow end up in life-threatening situations, as heroines, Yelena and Opal are nothing alike. I was really intrigued by the importance of weather and the way Maria V. Snyder developed the magic in glassblowing. As much of fantasy nowadays seems dedicated to vampires, this felt refreshing. I also like the way local legend plays into this novel. Though the very beginning is slow, Storm Glass as a whole is packed with action and mystery, so once the story begins the book is hard to put down. There is plenty of violence as well, but it is not written in a gory way that would disgust readers. While the romance is certainly there, I felt that Opal’s connections with Ulrick and Kade are a bit underdeveloped. Unlike Opal’s feelings about her powers, her emotions surrounding these men weren’t explored thoroughly enough. I’m hoping the sequel, Sea Glass, will address this. 9 out of 10.

P.S. If you haven't read Storm Glass yet, you can read chapter 1 right on Maria V. Snyder's site.

Feed Your Ears XI: Sea of Love

2009-07-31T15:17:00.000-04:00

To read about the origins of Feed Your Ears, check out my first post.

This week I'm featuring a cute Simon Pulse romantic comedy, Sea of Love by Jamie Ponti.

1. Sea of Love - Cat Power

2. Wouldn't it be Nice - Beach Boys

3. The Beauty in Ugly - Jason Mraz

4. My Funny Valentine - Miles Davis

5. Sea of Love - Israel Kamakawiwo'ole

Review Policy

2009-07-30T18:06:00.006-04:00

I figured that while I’ve been sprucing up my blog – got a lovely new layout from Laina, started archiving, and so on – I should probably write up my policy for reviews. Let me know if there’s anything I didn’t cover.

How to contact me:

Email: Kristin at dazdnconfusd@comcast.net

What I’ll review:

Age and genres: I will review nearly any young adult books. I particularly enjoy fantasy and historical fiction, as well as anything with some romance and/or a mystery. I generally (there of course have been exceptions) do not enjoy non-fiction and memoirs. I also read and review some adult books that are “crossovers” and would interest young adults (for example, Maria Snyder’s Storm Glass). You can see all of the titles I have reviewed previously and have highlighted through the Waiting on Wednesday meme to get a better sense of my interests over here.
Format: I much prefer hard copies of books. Still, I will accept e-books and pdf files if acquiring a physical copy is not possible.
Self-published: I will occasionally accept self-published books. Contact me for more information.

What to expect if you send me a book:

Timeline: I will try to read and review all books I receive within six weeks. If the book is not yet released, then I will wait in order to try to post the review a week or so before the release date (unless requested otherwise).
Guarantee: If I receive a book, I guarantee I will review it at some point. As mentioned above, I hope to read and review all books within six weeks. The only two exceptions I can imagine are: 1) if I am sent a large bundle of books at one time. In this case, I will at least read and review some of these right away, but depending on how many books I have at the time, I may not be able to get to every single one within six weeks. 2) if something bad happens to me (super sick, start failing school, etc). I’m hoping this won’t EVER be the case, but I figured I should mention it just in case.

My reviews:

Format: Generally my reviews are two to three paragraphs in length. The first paragraph will include my own summary of the book, and then one to two paragraphs of my opinion. I also give every book I read a rating from 1 to 10.
Opinion: First of all, I use “I” in my reviews. I think it’s important to emphasize that in any review, what’s being said are my personal thoughts and therefore not everyone is going to agree. Which brings me to my second point. I am completely honest when I write reviews. This means that if I did not enjoy a book, I will say so in my review. I try to be completely fair in these reviews, and am never cruel. I should mention, though, that it’s rare that I dislike a book.
Other locations: I also post all of my book reviews on GoodReads. If requested, I will also post on Amazon.com, BN.com, and/or other book review sites.

Other stuff you might want to know:

Traffic and other stats: Feed Your Imagination was started in mid-March 2009, and a Sitemeter tracker installed at the beginning of July 2009. As of the end of August, I have 103 followers, and for the months of July and August I received over 1,200 visits and 2,400 page views. To see the traffic on my blog at any given moment, scroll to the bottom of the blog and click on the Sitemeter rectangle (it will link you to a page full of stats).
What happens to books I receive: The books I receive often end up on my bookshelf and stay there, or I will pass them on to a friend. I never sell the books I receive, though I may pass them on to other readers through a contest or donation to my public library.
Authors: I think you are all so fascinating! I would love to do an interview or have you do a guest blog here. Just send me an email; I’d be honored to have you. :)
Giveaways/contests: I love them! If you’re interested in having me host a giveaway or contest, email me. I’ll try to come up with something creative.
Bloggers: I like meeting new people so don’t hesitate to drop me an e-mail about anything, really. I’m also up for link exchanges if you’re interested.

I think that’s everything! Don’t hesitate to leave a comment if there’s something else I should add.

A Shakespearean Summer: The Taming of the Shrew

2009-07-30T12:19:00.000-04:00

I'm participating in A Shakespearean Summer, a challenge hosted by Liv of Liv's Book Reviews. For this challenge, you read three of Shakespeare's plays and post about them. I love Shakespeare and I'm thrilled to be participating. So for my first play, I reread The Taming of the Shrew.

Summary: The Taming of the Shrew is framed by the story of a Lord who tricks the drunken Sly into believing he is a nobleman. The Lord proceeds to have a play enacted out for Sly, and it is this play that most people recognize. The Taming of the Shrew centers around four individuals: Katherina Minola, her younger sister Bianca, Petruchio Guicciardini and Lucentio della Rovere. Bianca, with her many suitors, is frustrated as she is not permitted to marry until her elder sister does. However, with Katherina’s insolence and temper, this shrew frightens off any man who dares to get to close. In the meanwhile, Lucentio and Petruchio arrive in Padua. In order to compete with Bianca’s other suitors, Lucentio disguises himself as her tutor in order to get close to her. At the same time, Petruchio, aware of Katherina’s wealth and reputation, sets forth to marry her, return her to his home, and ultimately, tame this shrew.

My thoughts: There's something weird about reviewing a Shakepeare play (maybe it's all those analytical English lit courses), so instead I'll just say what I think about this play. This is one of my favorite Shakespeare comedies, mainly for the witty banter. Plus, in my personal opinion, Grumio (Petruchio’s servant) is one of the funniest characters in any of Shakespeare’s plays. The ending, of course, is controversial. I don’t want to give away too much, but I think it’s pretty well-known (or at least predictable) that Katherina is tamed by the end of the play. I don’t read The Taming of the Shrew as a completely anti-feminist work (trust me, if I thought that was how this play should be interpreted, I wouldn’t like it). Instead, I think the taming and Katherina’s speech can’t be taken at face value, but rather read in a Shakespeare’s-bringing-an-issue-to-the-table and Katherina’s-speech-is-tongue-in-cheek sort of way. But that’s just my take, of course. Anyway, as far as Shakespeare goes, I found this play easier to understand, and all of the plotting and messing around with identity is very entertaining.

-------------

Kiss Me Kate – This Cole Porter musical has an interior play that’s a musical version of Taming of the Shrew. Great music and lots of witty banter. You can see it on stage and there’s also an OK video version.

10 Things I Hate About You – Teen romantic comedy featuring Heath Ledger and Julia Stiles set in high school. Full of other Shakespeare references (including his sonnets, Macbeth, and more). I love it because it’s part of a golden age of teen movies (gotta love the 90’s). The new TV series, though, you should avoid.

Deliver Us From Eva – A modern, urban adaptation of The Taming of the Shrew with LL Cool J and Gabrielle Union. It’s pretty awful, but I’ll admit that sometimes I love those movies that are so bad they’re almost good (well, at least good in the entertaining because you can poke fun sense).

Lipstick Apology

2009-07-29T22:28:00.001-04:00

Here's another book trailer for y'all. Of the two trailers for this book that are out there, this is my fave. This one is for Lipstick Apology by Jennifer Jabaley, due out August 6th (so soon!). First, here's the video description, which is basically just the book synopisis:

Four little words written in lipstick mean Emily must say goodbye to everything she knows. Emily Carson has always been a good girl. So when she throws a party the night her parents leave for vacation, she's sure she'll get busted. What Emily doesn't know is that her parents will never return. That their plane will go down. And the only thing left amidst the wreckage will be a tray table with the words: Emily please forgive me scrawled in lipstick - her mother's last words. Now it's fall in New York City and Emily's trying to pick up the pieces of her shattered life. Her public tragedy captures the attention of more than just the media - and soon two very different boys at her new school are pursuing her: the cute, popular Owen, and the quirky chemistry partner slash pastry-baker-by-night, Anthony. But even with such delicious distractions, Emily can't let go of her mother's mysterious apology. Does she have the courage to face the truth? With help of a whole new kind of family - one that includes a make-up artist to the stars, a teen hand model, and a wacky hairdresser - Emily must choose between the boy who makes her forget it all, and the one who encourages her to remember, and ultimately, heal. Sometimes goodbye is just the beginning.

Enjoy!

Waiting on Wednesday: July 29

2009-07-29T10:35:00.000-04:00

Title: Sea Glass

Author: Maria Snyder

Series: Glass series, book #2

US Release date: September 1, 2009

Summary (from Maria Snyder's website): Like the colorful pieces of sea glass washed up on shore, Opal has weathered rough waters and twisting currents. But instead of finding a tranquil eddy, Opal is caught in a riptide. Her unique glass messengers which allow instant communication over vast distances have become a vital part of Sitian society. Once used solely by the Councilors and magicians, other powerful factions are now vying for control. Control of the messengers equals control of Sitia. Unfortunately that also means control of Opal. If that isn’t enough of a problem, Opal’s determination to prove blood magic is still being used is met with strong resistance. The Council doubts her, her mentor doubts her, and even her family is concerned. When her world is turned upside down, she begins to doubt herself. In the end, Opal must decide who to believe, who to trust, and who has control—otherwise she will shatter into a million pieces and be swept out by the tide.

Why I'm interested: Simple: I read Maria Snyder's Study trilogy and loved them all. Then I read Storm Glass and loved it even more (and I didn't think that was possible). And then finally I read the chapter 3 excerpt from Sea Glass and now I don't want to wait a moment longer.

So what are you waiting on today?

Teaser Tuesday: Week 7

2009-07-28T20:42:00.000-04:00

Teaser Tuesdays is sponsored by MizB of Should Be Reading. Teaser Tuesdays go like this:

Grab your current read
Open to a random page
Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

This week, my teaser is...

"There was, of course, nothing to beware of on Selkie Island. But I couldn't shake the sense that there would be plenty to discover."

--page 12, Sea Change by Aimee Friedman

What's your teaser this Tuesday?

Flashback of the Month IV: Legacy

2009-07-27T21:57:00.003-04:00

For a short explanation and the first Flashback of the Month post, go here.

So this month I decided to go with a book that's sort of a flashback and flash-forward hybrid. The book I'm talking about is Cayla Kluver's Legacy - the self published paperback edition is out of print, but AmazonEncore will be releasing a hardcover edition this August. On to my review...

Set primarily in the world of Hytanica, Legacy by Cayla Kluver is a fantasy flushed with detail and full of romance. After years of war between the kingdoms of Cokyri and Hytanica, the Cokyrians draw away and cease fighting. Or so everyone thought. Instead, a total of forty-nine infant boys are abducted and returned dead by the Hytanica city gates as a final warning from the Cokyrians. Despite the following peace, one mystery remained – only forty-eight bodies were returned. Sixteen years after this ceasefire, while the dutiful Princess Alera of Hytanica is occupied balancing suitors (namely the man her father has in mind, Lord Steldor), a teenage Cokyrian is found within the walls of Hytanica. As Alera develops a kinship with this boy, Narian, she realizes that being a princess doesn’t just mean being a good, submissive wife. At the same time, Narian discovers the truth about his past and his nature and is forced to fight against everything he is accustomed to.

At the time Legacy was written, Cayla Kluver was only fourteen. I don’t care what anyone says, writing a nearly 500 page novel as a young teen is an incredibly impressive feat, so I respect Legacy just for that. As the first book in a trilogy, Legacy does a fantastic job capturing the reader’s attention and developing the kingdom of Hytanica without resolving. Cayla Kluver’s writing is full of elaborate descriptions that at times are a bit overdone, but generally help the reader create vivid images in his or her head. Legacy presents stereotypes and then creates characters that challenge them, a message that should certainly resonate with teens today. Despite its length, this book is fast-paced and difficult to put down once you’ve gotten into it. Legacy is full of action, well-developed kingdoms, mystery, and romance - everything I could hope for in a fantasy. Cayla Kluver’s Legacy leaves enough loose ends that I cannot wait until its sequel, Allegiance, is released. 8 out of 10.

P.S. Check out the FAQ with Cayla Kluver on her website.
P.P.S. If you’re in a gaming sort of mood, head over to Legacy’s page on Amazon, then scroll down to play the Legacy game.

In My Mailbox: Week 7

2009-07-26T15:25:00.003-04:00

In My Mailbox was created by Kristi from The Story Siren. Here's what I found in my mailbox, at the bookstore, and at the library this week. Summaries are taken from Amazon, B&N, and GoodReads.

Blue Moon by Alyson Noel - Eager to learn everything she can about her new abilities as an Immortal, Ever turns to her beloved Damen to show her the way. But just as her powers are increasing, Damen’s are waning. In an attempt to save him, Ever travels to the magical dimension of Summerland, where she learns the secrets of Damen’s tortured past; a past which he has always kept hidden from her. But in her quest to cure Damen, Ever discovers an ancient text that details the workings of time. Now Ever must choose between turning back the past and saving her family from the accident that claimed their lives—or staying in the present and saving Damen, who grows sicker every day...

Bad Apple by Laura Ruby (ARC) - from a book trade with Alyssa from The Shady Glade - Junior Tola Riley doesn’t care what people say about her. She knows her ever-changing hair color and goth clothes make her an easy target. Whatever. But the latest rumor is different.... The entire school believes she had an affair with her art teacher. The rumors may be a lie, but the fallout is all too real. Will Tola finally stand up for the truth? With a heroine you'll root for and a truly relevant story, Laura Ruby has once again brought the authentic teen experience to life for readers who relish dark humor and razor-sharp wit.

Radiant Darkness by Emily Whitman - He smiles. "Hello." It's a deep voice. I can feel it reverberate in my chest and echo all the way down to my toes. I know I should leave, but I don't want to. I want to keep my senses like this forever. I'm all eye, all ear, all skin. Persephone lives in the most gorgeous place in the world. But her mother's a goddess, as overprotective as she is powerful. Paradise has become a trap. Just when Persephone feels there's no chance of escaping the life that's been planned for her, a mysterious stranger arrives. A stranger who promises something more—something dangerous and exciting—something that spurs Persephone to make a daring choice. A choice that could destroy all she's come to love, even the earth itself. In a land where a singing river can make you forget your very name, Persephone is forced to discover who—and what—she really is.

Taken By Storm by Angela Morrison - Leesie Hunt has many rules: No kissing. No sex. No dating outside the Mormon faith. When Michael Walden—a deep-sea diver who lost his parents in a violent hurricane—arrives in town, Leesie sees someone who needs her. They fall for one another, even though his dreams are tied to the depths of the ocean and hers to salvation above. Will their intense chemistry be too strong to resist? Leesie and Michael must make the hardest choice of their lives: whether to follow their beliefs or their hearts. Readers will be swept away by this tale of forbidden romance told in online chats, Leesie's chapbook poems, and Michael's dive log. It's as steamy as Twilight and just as clean.

That's it for me this week. What books did you find?

Feed Your Ears X: Front and Center

2009-07-24T22:43:00.000-04:00

To read about the origins of Feed Your Ears, check out my first post.

This week I'm doing something a little different. After spending a bunch of time on Catherine Murdock's website, I found Beaner's playlist. Though he's in the first two DJ novels, he's much more important in Front and Center. So anyway, for today's Feed Your Ears post, I recommend heading over to Catherine Murdock's site for Beaner's playlist from Front and Center, including hits such as Elvis Presley's A Little Less Conversation and Aretha Franklin's Respect. You can even download it on iTunes. Enjoy!

Candor trailer

2009-07-24T21:19:00.002-04:00

Check out the awesome trailer for Pam Bachorz's Candor. Well, first read this summary of Candor, then check out the trailer below.

Oscar Banks has everything under control. In a town where his father brainwashes everyone, he's found a way to secretly fight the subliminal Messages. He's got them all fooled: Oscar's the top student and the best-behaved teen in town. Nobody knows he's made his own Messages to deprogram his brain. Oscar has even found a way to get rich. For a hefty price, he helps new kids escape Candor, Florida before they're transformed into cookie-cutter teens. But then Nia Silva moves to Candor, and Oscar's carefully-controlled world crumbles.

Wings

2009-07-24T14:10:00.005-04:00

Aprilynne Pike’s Wings lifts readers up and sweeps them into a world with a faerie realm at their fingertips. When Laurel and her family move to a new town, she has a hard time fitting in her new high school, what with her unusual eating habits and attachment to the outdoors despite the cold. Once a zit on her back blossoms into lovely petals, Laurel becomes determined to figure out what makes her different. With the help of her only friend (and perhaps more…), David, and the dangerous Tamani she meets in the woods by her old home, Laurel begins to learn the truth about herself and figure out what’s worth fighting for.

In this first installment of a tetralogy, Aprilynne Pike creates a world of faeries and wonder that readers can escape to. This new take on faeries and their origins is absolutely refreshing. Aprilynne Pike’s writing is marvelously fluid and filled with remarkable imagery that will draw the reader in to Laurel’s story. While the romance between Laurel and David is not as developed as I would have liked it to be, the love triangle that develops once Tamani is introduced adds interest to this story. Readers are likely to pick one to root for throughout the course of the novel and those to come (I’ll admit that personally I’m going for Tam). I would say that Wings is geared towards a younger teen audience, so I probably would have appreciated it more a few years ago. Nonetheless, Wings is an impressively charming quick read. 9 out of 10.

P.S. I assume everyone’s already heard about the possibility of a movie by Disney, so instead check out deleted scenes from Wings at Aprilynne Pike’s website.

Waiting on Wednesday: July 22

2009-07-22T09:46:00.002-04:00

Title: A Pearl Among Princes

Author: Coleen Paratore

US Release date: September 17, 2009

Summary (from Amazon.com): Gracepearl Coal is the cook’s daughter on Miramore, the island all princes visit for their summer program in the Charming Arts. Each year, the princes-in-training arrive on gallant seacraft, guided by captains trained to navigate the island’s treacherous waters. Passage on one of these boats is the only method to leave the island—thus betrothal to a royal is the only way for Pearl to find her far-off destiny, the one that’s started haunting her dreams. Luckily, this year’s crop of princes include some promising prospects, but how will Pearl leave behind her ailing father or—hardest of all—marry a boy other than her long-time beloved, Mackree . . . who now finds it too painful to even speak to her?

Why I'm interested: First the cover caught my eye. Then, as someone who loves fantasy and romance, I got completely hooked by the summary. And I mean, a summer program in the CHARMING ARTS? What an awesome, clever idea. I'm not sure whether this is going to be a stand alone title or the first in the series, but it sounds like it could be the latter and I think I'd love to read more stories about Miramore.

This Wednesday what are you waiting on?

Teaser Tuesday: Week 6

2009-07-21T01:12:00.003-04:00

Teaser Tuesdays is sponsored by MizB of Should Be Reading. Teaser Tuesdays go like this:

Grab your current read
Open to a random page
Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

This week, my teaser is...

"Celia had never liked the idea of Lara to begin with - she wanted to be the most important woman in Bree's life, and it was clear that Lara had won that title. April always marveled at how competitive some Smith women could be, over friendships, and boyfriends, and grades, and weight, and pretty much everything else."

--page 99, Commencement by J. Courtney Sullivan

What have you got for a teaser this week?

Give Up The Ghost Quiz

2009-07-19T22:08:00.003-04:00

Megan Crewe has put together a cool quiz to figure out what character you are from her novel, Give Up The Ghost.

Here are my results:

You're most like Paige!

Paige McKenna loved nothing more than to be out on the town or down by the lake, having fun with her friends and boyfriend. Mostly she just wanted to be happy, and for everyone around her to be happy--just without making too many waves. Even when she found her younger sister incredibly annoying, she'd have defended her to the death from anyone who said one unkind word about her."

Follow below to take the quiz yourself:

Contest winners!

2009-07-19T21:23:00.002-04:00

First, thank you to everyone who entered these contests and thank you to Lauren at Shooting Stars Mag for hosting the YA Book Carnival. I'm sure everyone could agree it was a great idea that will hopefully become an annual thing. Anyway, now for the moment you've all been waiting for...

The winner of Secret Society is...

Steph Su

The winner of two YA books is...

Bianca

who selected The One and Cruel Summer.

Congrats Steph and Bianca! I'll be emailing you soon so that I can get your addresses and send out the books.

In My Mailbox: Week 6

2009-07-18T23:57:00.012-04:00

In My Mailbox was created by Kristi from The Story Siren. Here's what I found in my mailbox, at the bookstore, and at the library this week. Summaries are taken from Amazon and B&N.

The Impostor's Daughter by Laurie Sandell - Won in a giveaway by Bridget3420 (thanks!). Laurie Sandell grew up in awe (and sometimes in terror) of her larger-than-life father, who told jaw-dropping tales of a privileged childhood in Buenos Aires, academic triumphs, heroism during Vietnam, friendships with Kissinger and the Pope. As a young woman, Laurie unconsciously mirrors her dad, trying on several outsized personalities (Tokyo stripper, lesbian seductress, Ambien addict). Later, she lucks into the perfect job--interviewing celebrities for a top women's magazine. Growing up with her extraordinary father has given Laurie a knack for relating to the stars. But while researching an article on her dad's life, she makes an astonishing discovery: he's not the man he says he is--not even close. Now, Laurie begins to puzzle together three decades of lies and the splintered person that resulted from them--herself?

Sea of Love by Jamie Ponti - As if it's not bad enough that Darby had to leave NYC and her BF to move to Florida, where her family's started running a hotel, now she has to help with the hotel's annual Valentine's Day Cupid's Ball. Things start looking up when local beach hottie Zach takes Darby surfing and shows her around. Beach life actually starts to grow on this fish out of water. Then -- surprise! A week before the ball, Darby's NYC ex decides to pay her a visit. Darby's knee-deep in guilt because she realizes she's fallen for Zach! This Valentine's Day, is Darby ready to dive into a new relationship with the guy who's captured her heart?

Kisses and Lies by Lauren Henderson - After discovering that someone saw what looked like Dan’s emergency EpiPen in A-lister Plum’s designer handbag, Scarlett and her tough American sidekick, Taylor, sneak into a posh London nightclub, where Plum has a private table. Scarlett is stunned to discover a piece of evidence that might implicate another girl in Plum’s exclusive circle, Lucy Raleigh. Which means Scarlett must cast a wider net in order to catch the right suspect.Back at school, groundskeeper Jase is hoping to take Scarlett’s mind off her troubles with some heart-stopping kisses. Scarlett can’t help but feel guilty for indulging in romantic rendezvous when she should be hunting down Dan’s killer. However, once Scarlett finds out how Lucy is connected to Dan, she knows she must drop everything and travel to the McAndrew estate in Scotland to hunt for more clues. But when she arrives, Scarlett becomes the target of a dangerous hunt herself.

The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane by Katherine Howe - Harvard graduate student Connie Goodwin needs to spend her summer doing research for her doctoral dissertation. But when her mother asks her to handle the sale of Connie's grandmother's abandoned home near Salem, she can't refuse. As she is drawn deeper into the mysteries of the family house, Connie discovers an ancient key secreted within a seventeenth-century Bible. The key contains a yellowing fragment of parchment with a name written upon it: Deliverance Dane. This discovery launches Connie on a quest to find out who this woman was, and to unearth a rare colonial artifact of singular power: a physick book, its pages a secret repository for lost knowledge of herbs and other, stranger things. As the pieces of Deliverance's harrowing story begin to fall into place, Connie is haunted by visions of the long-ago witch trials, and begins to fear that she is more tied to Salem's dark past then she could have ever imagined.

Commencement by J. Courtney Sullivan - Assigned to the same dorm their first year at Smith College, Celia, Bree, Sally, and April couldn’t have less in common. Celia, a lapsed Catholic, arrives with her grandmother’s rosary beads in hand and a bottle of vodka in her suitcase; beautiful Bree pines for the fiancé she left behind in Savannah; Sally, pristinely dressed in Lilly Pulitzer, is reeling from the loss of her mother; and April, a radical, redheaded feminist wearing a “Riot: Don’t Diet” T-shirt, wants a room transfer immediately. Together they experience the ecstatic highs and painful lows of early adulthood: Celia’s trust in men is demolished in one terrible evening, Bree falls in love with someone she could never bring home to her traditional family, Sally seeks solace in her English professor, and April realizes that, for the first time in her life, she has friends she can actually confide in. When they reunite for Sally’s wedding four years after graduation, their friendships have changed, but they remain fiercely devoted to one another. Schooled in the ideals of feminism, they have to figure out how it applies to their real lives in matters of love, work, family, and sex. For Celia, Bree, and Sally, this means grappling with one-night stands, maiden names, and parental disapproval—along with occasional loneliness and heartbreak. But for April, whose activism has become her life’s work,it means something far more dangerous.

The Actor and the Housewife by Shannon Hale - What if you were to meet the number-one person on your laminated list—you know, that list you joke about with your significant other about which five celebrities you’d be allowed to run off with if ever given the chance? And of course since it’ll never happen it doesn’t matter… Mormon housewife Becky Jack is seven months pregnant with her fourth child when she meets celebrity hearththrob Felix Callahan. Twelve hours, one elevator ride, and one alcohol-free dinner later, something has happened…though nothing has happened. It isn’t sexual. It isn’t even quite love. But a month later Felix shows up in Salt Lake City to visit and before they know what’s hit them, Felix and Becky are best friends. Really. Becky’s husband is pretty cool about it. H er children roll their eyes. Her neighbors gossip endlessly. But Felix and Becky have something special…something unusual, something completely impossible to sustain. Or is it? A magical story, The Actor and the Housewife explores what could happen when your not-so-secret celebrity crush walks right into real life and changes everything.

That's all for me this past week. What did you find in your mailbox?

Evermore

2009-07-18T17:30:00.003-04:00

In this opening volume of The Immortals series, Evermore, Alyson Noel brings the paranormal into the life of an otherwise normal teenager girl, Ever Bloom. After a terrible car accident leaves Ever practically alone (well, other than the ghost of her dead sister, Riley), she is taken in by her aunt, Sabine. If only adjusting to this new life was the only thing to worry about. When Ever wakes up after the traumatic accident, she finds that she can not only see people’s auras, but hear their inner thoughts. This certainly doesn’t make fitting in at her new school simple, especially since she now lives life with her headphones in order to block the sounds of her peers’ thoughts. Then a new boy transfers to her high school, and when she’s with him her powers don’t feel so overwhelming. She can’t help but feel drawn to this Damen and his secrets (and it’s not just because of his handsome looks).

With Evermore, Alyson Noels begins what’s sure to be an addicting series of mystery, powers, growing up, forgiveness, and love through the ages. As a long time fan of Alyson Noel’s books, I can honestly say that this is one of my favorites. I love the way colors are featured in this book with such importance. From auras to flowers, Alyson Noel puts a lot of emphasis on the meanings of different colors, using this to more subtly reveal emotions. Ever is a fascinating narrator, and as a reader I was able to connect with her easily. Though I have little in common with Ever, Alyson Noel did a great job writing from her perspective, so that when Ever was lost I felt just as confused, and the same when she was excited, heartbroken, and so on. On the other hand, Damen felt a bit flat to me, but I’m hoping to see him developed more and learn more about his long history in future installments.

Now, a lot of comparisons have been made between this book and Twilight, and all I can say to that is, yes, they’re sort of similar because they deal with similar topics (and how is that surprising considering how popular literature about vampires/witches/zombies/etc. has become?). But the similarities ended there for me. Alyson Noel’s writing is better, the characters more interesting (and realistic), and the powers different. As a whole, I give Evermore 9 out of 10.

P.S. You can win your own copy of Evermore over at Taste Life Twice. The contest runs through July 31st.

Thank you!

2009-07-17T17:38:00.001-04:00

As you can see, I have this GORGEOUS new blog layout :) I just want to thank Laina for creating this layout for me. You can see other layouts she's done over at her blog, so check them out!

Feed Your Ears IX: Suite Scarlett

2009-07-17T17:12:00.004-04:00

To read about the origins of Feed Your Ears, check out my first post.

Now as a suggestion from Ninja Fanpire, I'll be featuring Maureen Johnson's Suite Scarlett this week (it's now available as a cute paperback, so now's a perfect time to pick up a copy).

1. Summertime - Scarlet Johansson

2. On Broadway - The Drifters

3. Hotel Song - Regina Spector

4. New York Minute - The Eagles

5. What a Piece of Work is Man from Hair

P.S. Check out Scarlett's map of NYC - it includes hints about book 2.

Waiting on Wednesday: July 15

2009-07-15T10:29:00.003-04:00

Title: Ruined

Author: Paula Morris

US Release date: August 1, 2009

Summary (from Amazon.com): Rebecca couldn't feel more out of place in New Orleans, where she comes to spend the year while her dad is traveling. She's staying in a creepy old house with her aunt. And at the snooty prep school, the filthy-rich girls treat Rebecca like she's invisible. Only gorgeous, unavailable Anton Grey seems to give Rebecca the time of day, but she wonders if he's got a hidden agenda. Then one night, in Lafayette Cemetery, Rebecca makes a friend. Sweet, mysterious Lisette is eager to talk to Rebecca, and to show her the nooks and crannies of the city. There's just one catch: Lisette is a ghost. A ghost with a deep, dark secret, and a serious score to settle. As Rebecca learns more from her ghost friend - and as she slowly learns to trust Anton Grey-she also uncovers startling truths about her own history. Will Rebecca be able to right the wrongs of the past, or has everything been ruined beyond repair?

Why I'm interested: I really like ghost stories and old houses (what can I say? my town was founded in 1675 so I'm into the whole historic ghost scene). Beyond that, I like how this sounds like a coming-of-age novel combined with a mystery.

What're you waiting on this Wednesday?

All Around the Blogosphere

2009-07-14T22:46:00.008-04:00

Hi! I just wanted to share with everyone a few contests being held at other blog locations that are definitely worthy of being checked out. Best part is, they all end soon, so you don't even have to wait that long to see if you won! OK, so maybe that's just the best part for me since I'm so darn impatient. Anyway, here they are...

Enter by July 15th:

-Library Lounge Lizard is having a contest for Intertwined by Gena Showalter. This is a paranormal romance that's part of Harlequin's awesome new line for teens!

-Fantastic Book Review is giving away 2 ARCs of Suzanne Crowley's The Stolen One. And as if that's not enough, each copy comes with lots of great goodies (remember the days when we got goodie bags at parties? yeah, well it's like that except better).

-The Book Girl Reviews is holding a contest for Jacqueline Kolosov's A Sweet Disorder (you know, with the beautiful cover). She was given the book by a friend of Jacqueline's and is now fulfilling a request to pass the book on for another blogger to enjoy. Sweet, right?

Ends after July 15th:

-Over at Megan Crewe's blog, she's holding a contest to win an ARC of her book Give Up The Ghost, along with some really awesome swag. The prize pack includes a tote bag, paper lantern, bracelet and more awesome goodies. There are lots of ways to enter, just head over by July 20th.

-Word has spread quickly about this one, but if you haven't already heard, Lee Verday (Jessica Verday's husband) is giving away an ARC of The Hollow (which is one of my past Waiting on Wednesday picks). Head over to his blog to enter sometime over the next 13 days (all it takes is a comment) and say Feed Your Imagination sent you ;)

Also, there's still time to enter my two contests - you have through July 18th, so check them out if you haven't already.

Teaser Tuesday: Week 5

2009-07-14T00:56:00.002-04:00

Teaser Tuesdays is sponsored by MizB of Should Be Reading. Teaser Tuesdays go like this:

Grab your current read
Open to a random page
Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

This week, my teaser is...
"The man watched her, and Connie felt the dust of his overcrowded office beginning to sneak into her nasal passages and down the back of her throat... Why would someone back then buy old books, anyway?"
--page 230, The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane by Katherine Howe

What's your teaser this week?

They like me! They really like me!

2009-07-13T00:42:00.004-04:00

First, I want to thank J. Kaye! She's an incredible book blogger (one of the first I ever followed) and I am so honored that she chose to feature me last Friday (July 10th) as part of her 'A Book Blogger's New Discovery.' So again, thanks J. Kaye!

I've also found links to my reviews by two authors fairly recently (okay, so from June, but I only found them recently, so that counts, right?) and was so excited I just had to share. :)

The first mention of one of my reviews I found was by Jim C. Hines At the beginning of June, I reviewed the anthology Terribly Twisted Tales, and his story "The Red Path" was one of my favorites, so he linked to that review from his LJ.

Then, I found out that Malinda Lo has seen my review of Ash. I found one of her June twitter updates that quotes my review!

Thanks everyone!

In My Mailbox: Week 5

2009-07-12T21:04:00.004-04:00

In My Mailbox was created by Kristi from The Story Siren. Here's what I found in my mailbox, at the bookstore, and at the library this week. Summaries are taken from Amazon and B&N.

Miss Match by Wendy Toliver - Sasha Finnegan has always had a knack for setting people up, and at sixteen, she's turned her talent into an online business, molding high school crushes into true love. But Sasha finds her toughest match yet when hottie Derek Urban asks her to set him up with Sasha's gorgeous sister, Maddie. It's not that Derek isn't a good catch. In fact, after spending so much time with him, Sasha can't help but think he's perfect -- for her, that is. Can Sasha push her feelings aside for the sake of her business? Or has this miss finally found her match?

Once a Witch by Carolyn MacCullough (ARC) - Tamsin Greene comes from a long line of witches, and she was supposed to be one of the most Talented among them. But Tamsin's magic never showed up. Now seventeen, Tamsin attends boarding school in Manhattan, far from her family. But when a handsome young professor mistakes her for her very Talented sister, Tamsin agrees to find a lost family heirloom for him. The search—and the stranger—will prove to be more sinister than they first appeared, ultimately sending Tamsin on a treasure hunt through time that will unlock the secret of her true identity, unearth the sins of her family, and unleash a power so vengeful that it could destroy them all.

Kissing Booth by Lexie Hill - Lisi has never been kissed. Sure, she could practice on her guy friend, Johnny, but he’s like a brother to her! So when it comes time to pick a theme for the Spring Carnival booth, Lisi suggests a "Kissing Booth," hoping it will give her the chance to get a cheek-kiss from her crush, the handsome, popular Brett. But on the day of the carnival, as rumors fly and kisses are stolen, Lisi discovers that the person she should really kiss may have been right in front of her all along.

Love You Hate You Miss You by Elizabeth Scott - It's been seventy-five days. Amy's sick of her parents suddenly taking an interest in her. And she's really sick of people asking her about Julia. Julia's gone now, and she doesn't want to talk about it. They wouldn't get it, anyway. They wouldn't understand what it feels like to have your best friend ripped away from you. They wouldn't understand what it feels like to know it's your fault. Amy's shrink thinks it would help to start a diary. Instead, Amy starts writing letters to Julia. But as she writes letter after letter, she begins to realize that the past wasn't as perfect as she thought it was—and the present deserves a chance too.

That's it for me this week. What was in your mailbox?

Red Glass

2009-07-11T09:01:00.001-04:00

High school student Sophie had no idea how much her life would change after her family received a phone call, bringing them to a nearby hospital. There they found the six-year-old Pablo, the only survivor of a group of Mexicans attempting to cross the Arizona border. The young Pablo quickly becomes a member – Sophie’s Principito, her Little Prince. A year later, contact is made with Pablo’s remaining family, and so Sophie joins her Aunt Dika, Dika’s boyfriend Mr. Lorenzo, and Mr. Lorenzo’s son Angel on a journey to rejoin Pablo with the only family he has left. Along the way, Sophie is torn knowing the decision Pablo must make and recognizing the risks she faces by allowing herself to get close to Angel.

Red Glass by Laura Resau is easily one of the best books I've read this year, and is one of the few books that has brought me to tears. Despite all of the awards it's been recognized with, Red Glass receives nowhere near enough attention considering how much it deserves. Above all, this is an exceptional story about love – love across the generations, romantic love, familial love, and love for one’s heritage. Even if it is difficult to relate to the exact situation any of the characters are in, their emotions are universal and their dignity is certainly to be admired and respected. This story teaches us about human kindness and forgiveness, even in circumstances that seem unforgiveable. And of course, the quotes from The Little Prince not only extend the multicultural aspect of Red Glass – they help make Sophie and her companions’ journey universal. Laura Resau’s writing is entrancing and this story fascinating, so everyone should pick it up. 10 out of 10.

Feed Your Ears VIII: The Truth About Forever

2009-07-10T22:32:00.008-04:00

To read about the origins of Feed Your Ears, check out my first post.

Anyway, as I continue to work through the suggestions I've gotten from you guys, these week I'm featuring Sarah Dessen's The Truth About Forever as suggested by Briana from The Book Pixie.

The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen

1. Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again from The Phantom of the Opera

2. Whatever it Takes - Lifehouse

3. Let Go - Frou Frou

4. Wishful Thinking - Wilco

5. Let There Be Love - Oasis (I especially like that this is off their album entitled Don't Believe the Truth)

Contest close date changed

2009-07-10T21:57:00.003-04:00

Sorry for the late notice, but I've decided to postpone picking the winner for Tom Dolby's Secret Society. Now, the mixed giveaway and the Secret Society will both end July 18th (to make my life a little easier).

Waiting on Wednesday: July 8

2009-07-08T10:08:00.000-04:00

Title:The Unwritten Rule

Author: Elizabeth Scott

US Release date: April 6, 2010

Summary (from Elizabeth Scott's site): I liked him first, but it doesn't matter. I still like him. That doesn't matter either. Or at least, it's not supposed to.

Why I'm interested: So, I know it's not released until 2010, but I couldn't help but choose this book since the cover was just released. I 've read all but one of Elizabeth Scott's books so far and loved them all. I'm glad they released the cover finally - it reminds me of the cover for Perfect You. But anyway, I want to read this not just because I like her books, but because by being about about a girl who falls for her best friend's boyfriend, who can't relate on some level? Considering girl code forbids even looking at a friend's bf or dating him too soon after a break-up, I think this should be a really interesting read.

What are you waiting on?

Teaser Tuesday: Week 4

2009-07-07T23:44:00.004-04:00

Teaser Tuesdays is sponsored by MizB of Should Be Reading. Teaser Tuesdays go like this:

Grab your current read
Open to a random page
Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

My teaser this Tuesday is...

"Little do I know that by the end of that longed-for party, I'll be looking back and yearning for the chance to take back that nod. To rewind this entire encounter, like running a DVD backward on fast speed, as I get up, walk backward down the path, seemingly followed by Nadia, cross the road backward (not too safe, that, but I don't get knocked over), reach my friends, and press Stop and then Play again - and change the outcome."

--page 34, Kiss Me Kill Me by Lauren Henderson

What's your teaser?

YA Book Carnival: Hunted Winner

2009-07-05T21:20:00.005-04:00

Sorry I'm getting this up so late. After writing out lots of little slips of paper and digging through my closet for a hat, I have a winner. So, the moment you've all been waiting for, the winner of my first contest, part of Shooting Star Mag's YA Book Carnival, is...

Briana, The Book Pixie!

CONGRATS BRIANA! You won a copy of P.C. and Kristin Cast's Hunted. I'll be e-mailing you soon to get your mailing address.

Anyway, thank you to everyone who entered! I'm glad my first contest was such a success (and that I got such a great summer playlist out of it heh). If you didn't win, I still have a pick two of five YA titles contest going on, plus a contest for Tom Dolby's Secret Society. If you're not interested in either of these, don't worry, I have more books to give away later in the summer.

In My Mailbox: Week 4

2009-07-05T20:32:00.015-04:00

In My Mailbox was started by Kristi, The Story Siren. :)

After missing last weekend, I've got two weeks' worth of books to post, so this is gonna be a long one (sorry!). Here's what I've found in my mailbox, at the bookstore, and at the library this week. Summaries are taken from Amazon and B&N.

Front and Center by Catherine Murdock (ARC) - After five months of sheer absolute craziness I was going back to being plain old background D.J. In photographs of course I’m always in the background . . . -- But it turns out other folks have big plans for D.J. Like her coach. College scouts. All the town hoops fans. A certain Red Bend High School junior who’s keen for romance and karaoke. Not to mention Brian Nelson, who she should not be thinking about! Who she is done with, thank you very much. But who keeps showing up anyway . . .

Drive Me Crazy by Erin Downing - Kate and her two best friends, Sierra and Alexis, are geared up for a week of fun and freedom on the road to their family lake houses in Love, Wisconsin. Best of all, when Kate reaches Love, she'll be reunited with Lucas, with whom she shared a steamy end-of-summer kiss last year. She can't wait to see Lucas again and pick things up exactly where they left off. Then Kate gets some seriously bad news: Alexis's sarcastic, condescending, hot-but-he-knows-it cousin is crashing the girls' road trip. Adam bugs Kate in every possible way. Now Kate just wants to get the road trip over with so she can spend the summer in Lucas's arms. But the road to Love is full of surprises....

Wicked: Resurrection by Nancy Holder and Debbie Viguie - What the Cahors witches thought was the end of their troubles was only the beginning. A threat more powerful and more frightening than anything they have faced has been watching and waiting. The Cahors witches must come together and find Jer and Eli as both the Deveraux and the Cahors family lines face eradication. All the secrets of the Cahors will be revealed, forcing them to overcome their greatest weaknesses in order to achieve their most powerful strengths. And only united do they have any chance at victory. Before the end, sacrifices will be made, alliances forged, and old friends lost forever.

The Diamond Secret by Suzanne Weyn - A Retelling of "Anastasia." Nadya is a mischievous kitchen girl in a Russian tavern. Having nearly drowned in the Iset River during the turmoil of the Revolution, she has no memory of her past and longs for the life she cannot remember. Then two young men arrive at the tavern and announce that Nadya's long-lost grandmother has sent them to find her. Yearning for family and friendship, she agrees to accompany them to Paris for the joyful reunion. Nadya eagerly embarks on her journey, never dreaming it will be one of laughter, love -- and betrayal.

If I Stay by Gayle Forman - In a single moment, everything changes. Seventeen-year-old Mia has no memory of the accident; she can only recall riding along the snow-wet Oregon road with her family. Then, in a blink, she finds herself watching as her own damaged body is taken from the wreck...

Princess of the Midnight Ball by Jessica Day George - A tale of twelve princesses doomed to dance until dawn… Galen is a young soldier returning from war; Rose is one of twelve princesses condemned to dance each night for the King Under Stone. Together Galen and Rose will search for a way to break the curse that forces the princesses to dance at the midnight balls. All they need is one invisibility cloak, a black wool chain knit with enchanted silver needles, and that most critical ingredient of all—true love—to conquer their foes in the dark halls below. But malevolent forces are working against them above ground as well, and as cruel as the King Under Stone has seemed, his wrath is mere irritation compared to the evil that awaits Galen and Rose in the brighter world above.

Crazy Beautiful by Lauren Baratz-Logsted (ARC) - In an explosion of his own making, Lucius blew his arms off. Now he has hooks. He chose hooks because they were cheaper. He chose hooks because he wouldn’t outgrow them so quickly. He chose hooks so that everyone would know he was different, so he would scare even himself. Then he meets Aurora. The hooks don’t scare her. They don’t keep her away. In fact, they don’t make any difference at all to her. But to Lucius, they mean everything. They remind him of the beast he is inside. Perhaps Aurora is his Beauty, destined to set his soul free from its suffering. Or maybe she’s just a girl who needs love just like he does.

The Dust of 100 Dogs by A.S. King - In the late seventeenth century, famed teenage pirate Emer Morrisey was on the cusp of escaping the pirate life with her one true love and unfathomable riches when she was slain and cursed with "the dust of one hundred dogs," dooming her to one hundred lives as a dog before returning to a human body-with her memories intact. Now she's a contemporary American teenager and all she needs is a shovel and a ride to Jamaica.

Red Glass by Laura Resau - One night Sophie and her parents are called to a hospital where Pedro, a six-year-old Mexican boy, is recovering from dehydration. Crossing the border into Arizona with a group of Mexicans and a coyote, or guide, Pedro and his parents faced such harsh conditions that the boy is the only survivor. Pedro comes to live with Sophie, her parents, and Sophie's Aunt Dika, a refugee of the war in Bosnia. Sophie loves Pedro—her Principito, or Little Prince. But after a year, Pedro’s surviving family in Mexico makes contact, and Sophie, Dika, Dika’s new boyfriend, and his son must travel with Pedro to his hometown so that he can make a heartwrenching decision.

Sophomore Switch by Abby McDonald - Take an administrative snafu, a bad breakup, and what shall heretofore be known as "The Hot-Tub Incident," and you’ve got two unprepared sophomores on a semester abroad. For American party girl Tasha, an escape to Oxford may be a chance to ditch her fame as a tabloid temptress, but wading Uggs-deep in feminist theory is not her idea of a break. Meanwhile, the British half of the exchange, studious Emily, nurses an aching heart amid the bikinis and beer pong of U.C. Santa Barbara. Soon desperation has the girls texting each other tips — on fitting in, finding love, and figuring out who they really are.

Braless in Wonderland by Debbie Reed Fischer - Allee Rosen is a lot of things: high school senior, overachiever, brain. The one thing Allee is not is supermodel material-at least that's what she thinks until modeling scouts spot her and she moves to Miami to work with an elite modeling agency. Suddenly Allee is swept up?p in a whirlwind of designer labels, photo shoots, go-sees and some seriously backstabbing models. Will this fabulous new life go to her head?

Being Nikki by Meg Cabot - Things aren't pretty for Emerson Watts. Em was sure there couldn't be anything worse than being a brainiac the body of a teenaged supermodel. But it turned out she was wrong. Because that supermodel could turn out to have a mother who's gone mysteriously missing, a brother who's shown up on her doorstep demanding answers, a former best friend who's intent on destroying Stark Enterprises to avenge the death of his lost love, and a British heartthrob who's written a song about her that's topping the charts. How can Em balance all that with school, runway shows, and weekend jaunts to St. Johns - especially when she's got ex-boyfriends crawling out of the woodwork who want more than just a photo op; a sister who is headed to the high school cheerleading championships; a company she represents that seems to be turning to the dark side... Not to mention trying to convince the love of her life that models aren't really airheads after all...especially one model in particular. But then, nobody said it was going to be easy being Nikki.

That's all for me. What's in your mailbox?

Books + Boys + Summer

2009-07-05T16:19:00.009-04:00

So... this is my first vlog ever. As clue 20 of Sarah Ockler's 20 Things in 20 Days scavenger hunt, I put together this video about great beach reads that feature dreamy guys (and then thought of drool-worthy celebs to match). It was scary, but I'm glad I did it. I think I'll try vlogging every once in a while. Anyway, I hope you enjoy it :)

Books mentioned in this post:
Lovestruck Summer by Melissa Walker
Something, Maybe by Elizabeth Scott
Wings by Aprilynne Pike
Thrill Ride by Rachel Hawthorne

Feed Your Ears VII: Harry Potter and Wicked

2009-07-04T21:08:00.008-04:00

Ahhh... sorry again! I was so caught up in baking/meal-planning for today that I forgot yesterday was Friday! Speaking of which, happy July 4th everyone! Hope the fireworks and BBQs and such are/were spectacular.

So now for two weeks worth of Feed Your Ears posts (coincidently, both are series, which made choosing songs really tough). Thanks to Lauren at Shooting Stars Mag and Sarah at The Blog That Must Not Be Named for this week's book suggestions!

To read about the origins of Feed Your Ears, check out my first post.

Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling

Harry’s Wondrous World (theme) – John Williams (OK, it’s not my fault that since the movies came out, this song plays in my head whenever I crack open the cover to one of the HP books)
Don’t Panic – Coldplay
Strange Magic – Electric Light Orchestra
The Real Mad-Eye Moody – Philosopherock (I promise that I really did mean to stay away from Wizard Rock when choosing these songs. It’s just that this is so funny, I couldn’t resist)
With a Little Help From My Friends – The Beatles

Wicked series by Nancy Holder and Debbie Viguié

Soulmate – Natasha Bedingfeld
Dare You To Move - Switchfoot
True Love Waits – Radiohead
Strange – Jason Mraz
Romeo Had Juliette – Lou Reed

P.S. Don't forget, today's the last day to enter my contest for Hunted.

Front and Center

2009-07-02T11:13:00.000-04:00

DJ Schwenk returns in Catherine Murdock’s conclusion to the Dairy Queen trilogy, Front and Center. After receiving more attention than she ever desired during football season, DJ looks forward to returning to basketball and her life in the background. It turns out, though, that fading into the background isn’t going to be possible for her. From college basketball scouts to her paralyzed brother to her best guy friend, DJ is getting just as much attention as before, and she certainly doesn’t want it all. And of course, DJ can’t seem to get her ex, Brian Nelson, out of her mind. In this final novel, DJ faces challenges on the basketball court and at home, learning how to build self-confidence, front and center.

Though not as exciting as Dairy Queen or The Off Season, Catherine Murdock brings DJ’s story to a close in this strong, well-written conclusion to the trilogy. Like the other DJ novels, Front and Center captures the reader’s attention through DJ’s down-to-earth voice. Though told from the perspective of a female, teens of both genders will appreciate DJ’s honesty and wit. At the same time, Front and Center will gain the approval of any parent with its mild language and DJ’s moral dilemmas.

Catherine Murdock addresses the fears and concerns of any high school student through DJ and her struggles. While DJ’s personal situation is unique, her feelings and emotions are not, and these will resonate with young adult readers. Murdock develops a cast of characters, each with their own flaws, to surround DJ, and while some of these players lack depth, they are all realistic and needed to complete DJ’s world. All in all, Front and Center by Catherine Murdock is a satisfying conclusion to the Dairy Queen trilogy with a message that lasts long after you’ve read the last page. By emphasizing the importance of family, friendship, and support, all of which are sometimes overlooked in young adult literature, this book will motivate its reader to reach out and take risks. 8 out of 10.

Waiting on Wednesday: July 1

2009-07-01T22:09:00.003-04:00

Title: Metamorphosis: Junior Year

Author: Betsy Franco

US Release date: October 13, 2009

Summary (from Amazon.com): Life. Love. Death. Identity. Ovid’s got a lot on his mind, and he pours it all — as confessions, observations, narrative poems, and drawings — into the pages of a notebook. Inspired by his namesake, he wryly records his classmates’ dramas as modern-day Roman mythology. There’s Sophie and Caleb, the Psyche and Cupid of cyber-couples; poetic Paula, who pursues filmmaker Franny like Apollo chasing Daphne; and graphic novelist Duwayne, a Proserpina shuttling between divorced parents. Meanwhile, Ovid hides his own Olympian struggles: his meth addict sister Thena has run off, leaving him with a suffocating home life and a disturbing secret.

Why I'm interested: First, I'm excited about a YA book nowadays referencing Ovid's "Metamorphoses" (again, I'm an English dork), plus I love notebook-style books. Beyond that, it looks like the graphics (done by Betsy Franco's son) will add a lot to the novel.

Back!

2009-06-29T15:30:00.003-04:00

Sorry for my out-of-the-blue absence these past few days! Friday afternoon a really strong storm blew through, leaving my entire town without electricity. While this generally sucked, it did make for lots of reading time. I only just got power back, so it'll be awhile before I'm caught up. Since I haven't posted since Thursday, that just means even more posts this week (including two weeks worth of Feed Your Ears Friday and In My Mailbox). I'm also going to try to get a few reviews up this week, so stay tuned!

YA Book Carnival: Secret Society

2009-06-25T19:24:00.003-04:00

Now for my final contest that's part of Shooting Star Mag's YA Book Carnival. This one is a follower appreciation contest, because I love you guys and really appreciate having readers. Anyway, for the details:

I am giving away an ARC of Tom Dolby's Secret Society, to be released September 29th. So, if you would like to enter, you must be a follower. If you were a follower before this post, let me know and you'll get an extra entry.

To enter: Just comment below :) Include your email address so that I can contact you if you win. And sorry, but U.S. addresses only.

For extra entries:
+1 if you were a follower before this post
+1 if you suggest a book for me feature in a Feed Your Ears Friday post
+2 if you add me to your blog roll
+2 for each time you blog about/link to/twitter about this contest (unlimited amount of times)
+4 if you comment on and/or link to my review of Secret Society

So... GO! This contest will end July 10th.

Update: This contest will now end July 18th.

Secret Society

2009-06-25T16:52:00.002-04:00

In the first installment of The Secret Society Chronicles, new girl Phoebe Dowling doesn’t care about fitting in at the Chadwick school. As an artist, she just wants to experience the city (New York City that is). Phoebe never expected that a single night at a party, one of Nick Bell’s notorious parties, of course, would make all the difference. First, socialite Lauren Mortimer takes Phoebe under her wings (who wouldn’t? Phoebe’s silver ballet flats were too cute). Then Phoebe receives a mysterious text message, along with Lauren and Nick, and wakes up the next morning as an initiate of the Society. Having been promised success thanks to the network of Society members, the three don’t bother questioning the unusual meetings and secrecy. Things seem to be going well, until a dead body is found in Central Park with only a tiny ankh-shaped tattoo as identification.

At its surface, Secret Society by Tom Dolby has a stunning cover. The cover’s sleek, seductive look only makes the book more intriguing. Secret Society complete sucks you in, drawing you into the lives of the elite networks of secret societies in NYC. Tom Dolby’s book is absolutely entrancing and the danger is exciting. The reader is drawn into the secrets and all the complications, in a way that’s almost disturbing, but is approached so thoughtfully that the reader can hardly look away. Secret Society is full of complexities, and this certainly does not exclude the characters. By rotating through Phoebe, Lauren, Nick, and Patch, this book expertly offers multiple perceptions of NYC, the Society, and more, each one uniquely contributing to the development of the novel.

Tom Dolby’s B.A. in the history of art definitely shows, particularly with the symbolism of the ankh, but really through all of the art and history that is brought into the story. As a whole, Secret Society is a captivating novel, full of mystery and romance. With today’s fascination surrounding boarding schools (think Gossip Girl, Private, etc.) and secret societies, this book is sure to draw attention. Plus, compared to these, Secret Society isn’t wholly predictable or superficial, but rather complex and thrilling. With its cliffhanger ending, I simply cannot wait for a sequel. 9 out of 10.

P.S. Check out Tom Dolby’s blog.