UPDATE: as of today 9/3/2012 more books and swag were added to this giveaway. Please, check them out.

 

The tans will fade, but the memories will last forever.

Our memories of the ocean will linger on, long after our footprints in the sand are gone.

Summer will be gone in September but it's still something I’ll always remember.

The above quote was found while perusing the internet but an author for that quote was never found. I can say with most certainty that it is NOT me. Yet, I felt that it fit for this new giveaway of mine. While recently moving I found that I did not have the space that I needed for many of my beloved books and thus decided to host an END OF SUMMER EPIC GIVEAWAY. Just look at the lovely novels in the image below. Don't you just want to hug them all? If not, then don't worry because I have already done that as I have bid them all adieu and placed them in box to go to the next good home.

 

 

Unsigned

For What it's Worth by Susan Carlton

Love and Haight by Susan Carlton

The Stone Girl by Alyssa B. Scheinmel

Size 12 and Ready to Rock by Meg Cabot

Uglies by Scott Westerfeld

The Book of Blood and Shadow by Robin Wasserman

Slayers by C.J. Hill

Daughter of the Centaurs by Kate Klimo

Bad Taste in Boys by Carrie Harris

Smart Girls Get What They Want by Sarah Strohmeyer

Dust Girl by Sarah Zettel

Master of Misrule by Laura Powell

Lies Beneath by Anne Greenwood Brown

The Book of the Night by Pearl North

The Map of Time by Felix J. Palma

Forbidden by Tabitha Suzuma

The Monstrumologist by Rick Yancey

The Enchantress by Michael Scott

Destined by Aprilynne Pike

Spirit's Princess by Esther Friesner

Star Crossed by Elizabeth C. Bunce

Texas Gothic by Rosemary Clement-Moore

Everlasting by Angie Frazier

Amy and Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson

SIGNED

White Cat by Holly Black

There is No Dog by Meg Rosoff

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin

Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys

But I love Him by Amanda Grace

In Too Deep by Amanda Grace

It's Kind of Funny by Ned Vizzini

Eternal by Cynthis Leitich Smith

Hallowed by Cynthia Hand

Strings Attached by Judy Blundell

Everneath by Brodi Ashton

Second Chance Summer by Morgan Matson

In Honor by Jessi Kirby

Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor

The Lady of the Rivers by Philippa Gregory

City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare

Ahhh! How can you resist? You cannot, and all you have to do is fill out the form below and spread the word, because I am also including a bunch of swag that will increase with the number of entrants. So, come back and with time I will include some swag.

a Rafflecopter giveaway  

As a bonus, new and old followers of my blog will also get these ARC's

As promised, added swag!!

 

and more books

MacMillan Teen had an amazing FIERCE READS TOUR that traveled the US earlier this year and because that was so successful they have decided to unite some of their fabulous FALL Lineup authors for another FIERCE READS TOUR this fall. Check out the following lineup and see if they are coming to a city near you.

  

Featuring  Ann Aguirre, Elizabeth Fama, Lish McBride and Marissa Meyer:

• September 18: Changing Hands Bookstore in Pheonix, AZ
• September 19: Tattered Cover in Denver, CO
• September 20: Left Bank Books in St. Louis, MO (This stop also features author Jessica Brody!)
• September 21: Joseph-Beth Booksellers in Cincinatti, OH
• September 22: Next Chapter Bookshop in Milwaukee, WI
• September 23: Malaprop’s Bookstore in Asheville, NC (This stop will not feature author Marissa Meyer)

  

Featuring Gennifer Albin, Caragh O’Brien, Marie Rutkoski and Leigh Bardugo:

• October 16: Lake Forest Bookstore in Lake Forest, IL
• October 17: Politics & Prose at the Bethesda Library outside of Washington D.C.
• October 18: Cover to Cover Bookstore in Columbus, OH
• October 19: Square Books in Oxford, MS
• October 20: Children’s Book World in Haverford, PA
• October 21: New York City (Exact location TBD!)

I know I am so bummed that this tour is not coming out my way. I had my heart set on it, but I am happy for the other cities involved.

CHECK OUT THIS NEW FIERCE READS VIDEO SHOWCASING THIS AMAZING NEW FALL LINE UP.

Hello audiobook fans. Recently Audible made a special post showcasing 25 audiobooks that represent some of the best loved novels in the Young Adult genre. The titles include some well known classics to the recent uprising of the dystopian genre. As I looked over this aptly titled AUDIBLE ESSENTIALS: Teen Edition list I was pleased to note that I have listened to some of the selected novels while realizing that I have missed out on a few and I was also surprised that some did not make the cut. Please check out this list and see what you think? Then we can discuss.

click it and check the list of 25

Did you get to check out this interesting list? What did you think of it?  I know that I now want to listen to THE BOOK THIEF and A TREE GROWS IN BROOKLYN and hope to keep expanding my listening library. Did any audiobooks catch your interest and make you want to listen to them straight away?

I was surprised that none of the Cassandra Clare novels made the list because her books are wonderful and the audiobook versions are entertaining and great to listen to. I also think that I HUNT KILLERS by Barry Lyga is amaze balls crazy creepy good. While Libba Bray's BEAUTY QUEENS is the stuff that audiobook magic is made of. What audiobook do you believe would have made the list? I would like to know.

Jill at Breaking the Spine started this and I believe that it's awesome" This blog post is to alert those that visit about "the" book that we cannot wait to get our hands on. This Wednesday I am ravenously salivating over PREMEDITATED by Josin McQuein. Not only does this cover just scream "WICKED" it also has one of the most creepily enticing book summaries around. EEEP!! I just cannot believe I will have to wait until next fall to read it.

Now that you know my WoW what is yours?

 PREMEDITATED

Josin McQuein

October 2013

Delecorte Press

A week ago, Dinah’s cousin Claire cut her wrists.

Five days ago, Dinah found Claire’s diary and discovered why.

Three days ago, Dinah stopped crying and came up with a plan.

Two days ago, she ditched her piercings and bleached the black dye from her hair.

Yesterday, knee socks and uniform plaid became a predator’s camouflage.

Today, she’ll find the boy who broke Claire.

By tomorrow, he’ll wish he were dead.



My WOW

Audible has a BEACHCOMBER SALE showcasing 25 books for $6.95 each until Friday, August 31, at 11:59PM ET. As part of that sale there are two Young Adult reads that are truly great and with such an amazing sale price how can you resist.

AUDIOBOOK

Ashes: Ashes Trilogy, Book 1

UNABRIDGED

It could happen tomorrow....

An electromagnetic pulse flashes across the sky, destroying every electronic device, wiping out every computerized system, and killing billions. Alex hiked into the woods to say good-bye to her dead parents and her personal demons. Now desperate to find out what happened after the pulse crushes her to the ground, Alex meets up with Tom, a young soldier, and Ellie, a girl whose grandfather was killed by the EMP. For this improvised family and the others who are spared, it's now a question of who can be trusted and who is no longer human.

 

AUDIOBOOK

Under the Never Sky

UNABRIDGED

 

 

Since she’d been on the outside, she’d survived an Aether storm, she’d had a knife held to her throat, and she’d seen men murdered. This was worse. Exiled from her home, the enclosed city of Reverie, Aria knows her chances of surviving in the outer wasteland - known as The Death Shop - are slim. If the cannibals don’t get her, the violent, electrified energy storms will. She’s been taught that the very air she breathes can kill her. Then Aria meets an Outsider named Perry. He’s wild - a savage - and her only hope of staying alive.
A hunter for his tribe in a merciless landscape, Perry views Aria as sheltered and fragile - everything he would expect from a Dweller. But he needs Aria’s help too; she alone holds the key to his redemption. Opposites in nearly every way, Aria and Perry must accept each other to survive. Their unlikely alliance forges a bond that will determine the fate of all who live under the never sky.

Hey! bay area peeps!! One of our authors, CORRINE JACKSON is having a book launch on Tuesday, August 28th @7pm with @NYMBC

Can I just tell you how very excited about this event. SQUEEE!!! Corrine and I are purse buddies and I just adore her to bits. So, please come out and support one of our very own and have some fun. See you there.

Today I am pleased to be a part of the Inbetween Blog Tour with Tara Fuller.

"Tara Fuller writes novels. Some about grim reapers​. Some about witches. All of course are delightfully full of teen angst and kissing. Tara grew up in a one stop light town in Oklahoma where once upon a time she stayed up with a flash light reading RL Stine novels and only dreamed of becoming a writer. She has a slight obsession with music and a shameless addiction for zombie fiction, Mystery Science Theater, and black and white mochas. Tara no longer lives in a one stop light town. Now she lives with her family in a slightly larger town in North  Carolina where they have at least three stoplights."

Please take a few minutes to read the following interview and don't forget to also enter the contest below... good luck!

1) What inspired you to write stories for Young Adult readers?
I love writing YA because I love reading it. I love writing about first love and helping a character develop into the person they are supposed to be.

2) Can you tell me about your novel INBETWEEN?

INBETWEEN is about a grim reaper that falls in love with the girl he sent to reap.
Here’s the blurb:
Since the car crash that took her father's life two years ago, Emma's life has been a freaky-and unending- lesson in caution. Surviving countless "accidents" has taken priority over being a normal seventeen-year-old, so Emma spends her days taking pictures of life instead of living it. Falling in love with a boy was never part of the plan. Falling for a reaper that makes her chest ache and head spin? Not an option.
It's not easy being dead-especially for a reaper who is in love with a girl fate has put on his hit list not once, but twice. Finn's fellow reapers give him hell about spending time with Emma, but Finn couldn't let her die before, and he's not about to let her die now. He will protect the girl he loves from the evil soul hell bent on stealing her body, even if it means sacrificing the only thing he has left...his soul.

3) What can fans look forward to next?

INBETWEEN is the first book in the Kissed by Death series, so in 2013 they can look for book two in the series. Kissed by Death is a companion series, so the next book will be from Cash and Anaya’s POV.

4) What is your favorite aspect about the writing process?

It’s different with every book for me, but for Inbetween it was the research. I had to do quite a bit of research on the supernatural for this book. A little spooky, but very cool.

5) What is on your nightstand now?

Notepad, pen, and a copy of Insurgent by Veronica Roth.

6) What inspired you to write a story centered on a Reaper?

I knew I wanted to write a story where the boy was dead and the girl was alive. I’d say the idea for a reaper got stuck in my head after reader Rachel Vincent’s Soul Screamers series.

7) Without being spoilerish, what is your favorite passage of INBETWEEN?

There are so many scenes that I love, but here is one of my favorites from Finn’s POV. J

I ran an iridescent finger down her arm to her wrist, watched it scatter like stars across her skin. Her breath hitched in her throat. Her heart beat so hard the sound rippled through
me like a shock wave. When her eyes met mine, the amount of want in them nearly brought me to my knees. Even through the fear and anger she had to be feeling, I knew she felt what Ifelt. The connection. The warmth. The rightness of this moment.
“Tell me you feel it,” I whispered.
“I-I—”
“Do you?”
She released the breath she’d been holding. “Yes.”

Here is the Inbetween  Contest Link... Good luck!
 a Rafflecopter giveaway
 

THE RISE OF NINE by Pittacus Lore

Hardcover, 416 pages

Expected publication: August 21st 2012 by HarperCollins

ISBN: 0061974587

Source: Publisher

Rating: ♥♥♥♥

Until the day I met John Smith, Number Four, I'd been on the run alone, hiding and fighting to stay alive.

Together, we are much more powerful. But it could only last so long before we had to separate to find the others. . . .

I went to Spain to find Seven, and I found even more, including a tenth member of the Garde who escaped from Lorien alive. Ella is younger than the rest of us, but just as brave. Now we're looking for the others--including John.

But so are they.

They caught Number One in Malaysia.
Number Two in England.
And Number Three in Kenya.
They caught me in New York--but I escaped.
I am Number Six.
They want to finish what they started.
But they'll have to fight us first.

My Thoughts:

Are you ready for an amazing read? Because THE RISE OF NINE by Pittacus Lore is a crazy insane, roller coaster ride of action packed adventure.

This story takes off with a tremendous velocity that is worthy of voracious white-knuckle reading. I was left instantly breathless as I returned to this world of remaining Lorian citizens seeking to reunite with one another while trying to fight off Setrakus Ra and the impenetrable Mogadorian empire. While Six locates a few gardes number Four encounters a most reckless and powerful garde member that is hell bent on revenge (heck yeah!). Together they embark on a journey that will hopefully reunite them, but along the way they encounter some incredulous obstacles.

As always I am most happy to return to this world of Lorien and Mogadorian madness. The writing team behind this series continues to kick up the intensity notch and the action never stops. Just when I try to recover from one intense moment then another begins keeping me in perpetual gut clenching agony. AHHH!! Another aspect that adds to my happiness is becoming reacquainted with the characters that I have come to adore like number four and six while absolutely fan girling over new comers number eight and nine. I cannot go into much detail without being spoilerific but lets just say that you will enjoy certain aspects of this novel very much and will want to know what happens next????

I have to admit that while I like the quick pace that this story has it can get a bit overwhelming with the amount of action filled moments. The constant fighting and bouncing between characters can do your head in so I recommend reading while being on your game or having a great cup of coffee on hand.

Fans of this series will be sure to enjoy this novel and if you like an action packed story then you do not have to look any further because this is the series for you.

Hello bay area YA book lovers. LITQUAKE, Palo Alto 8.26 will host an event that will host bay area authors including four of the finest YA authors in the land. Talia Vance, Veronica Rossi, Corrine Jackson and Katherine Longshore. Come and check it out. 

 August 26, 2012, 4-5PM: Palo Alto Litquake, YA Panel with Katherine Longshore (Gilt), Veronica Rossi (Under the Never Sky), and Talia Vance (Silver, Spies and Prejudice). Oshman Family JCC, 3921 Fabian Way, Palo Alto, CA 94303. 

More details here.

For Teens:  Author Frank Portman Frank Portman is a rock musician turned author. He’s written the wildly popular King Dork and Andromeda Klein. Frank will read from his books, sing a few songs, and share his interesting life story. Visit his website 

YA Muses:  A collection of YA authors share their books and writing careers including Katherine Longshore (Gilt), Veronica Rossi (Under the Never Sky), Corrine Jackson (If I Lie, Touched) and Talia Vance (Silver, Spies and Prejudice). Moderated by literary agent Pam van Hylckama Vlieg.

Sneak a Peek Saturday is a feature that I like to indulge in because I cannot wait to read the tasty tid bits that are put out there for us ravenous readers to enjoy.  

Today I have DEFIANCE by C.J. Redwine, one of my favorite reads for this year. I was completely blown away by this novel, being sucked in easily and very willingly. This novel is part of the new wave of high fantasy that is the hot new genre in YA reads and all I can say is "more please!"

 08/28/12

DEFIANCE
by C.J. Redwine
ISBN-13: 978-0062117182
Balzer + Bray, 416 pages.
Amazon, B&N, Goodreads

Click on the Cover to read an excerpt

Within the walls of Baalboden, beneath the shadow of the city’s brutal leader, Rachel Adams has a secret. While other girls sew dresses, host dinner parties, and obey their male Protectors, Rachel knows how to survive in the wilderness and deftly wield a sword. When her father, Jared, fails to return from a courier mission and is declared dead, the Commander assigns Rachel a new Protector, her father’s apprentice, Logan—the same boy Rachel declared her love for two years ago, and the same boy who handed her heart right back to her. Left with nothing but fierce belief in her father’s survival, Rachel decides to escape and find him herself. But treason against the Commander carries a heavy price, and what awaits her in the Wasteland could destroy her.

At nineteen, Logan McEntire is many things. Orphan. Outcast. Inventor. As apprentice to the city’s top courier, Logan is focused on learning his trade so he can escape the tyranny of Baalboden. But his plan never included being responsible for his mentor’s impulsive daughter. Logan is determined to protect her, but when his escape plan goes wrong and Rachel pays the price, he realizes he has more at stake than disappointing Jared.

As Rachel and Logan battle their way through the Wasteland, stalked by a monster that can’t be killed and an army of assassins out for blood, they discover romance, heartbreak, and a truth that will incite a war decades in the making.

Living in the bay area has given me some amazing book signing opportunities and another one is coming my way. GIRL'S NIGHTMARE OUT is Tor Teen's upcoming book tour with some of it's top notch YA authors.  Just check out the information below that is posted on the TOR book site.

Tor Books is sending paranormal young adult authors Kendare Blake, Lisa Desrochers, and Marta Acosta to your town! Catch them out on tour, on Twitter, and read new and excerpts from their new books!

Lisa Desrochers burst onto the YA scene in September 2010 with her debut novel Personal Demons, which was an ALA/YALSA Popular Paperback for Young Adults nominee and a Library Journal "Fall First" selection. Desrochers second installment Original Sin received rave reviews and now Tor Books is proud to announce the release of the conclusion to the thrilling Personal Demons series, Last Rite.

Kendare Blake enthralled New York Times bestselling authors, reviewers, fans, and bloggers alike with her debut novel, Anna Dressed in Blood. Blake adeptly weaves the familiar and the unexpected into a genre-bending, refreshing new take on paranormal romance. Now, she’s back with her eagerly anticipated sequel, Girl of Nightmares.

Marta Acosta’s gothic novel Dark Companion, written as an homage to Jane Eyre, is a lush romantic tale about an orphaned teenager who is chosen to attend an exclusive private school where things are not exactly as they seem. It was originally published on Scribd.com where it garnered over 25,000 reads and became the top YA novel on the site.

These wonderful authors will be coming out on tour to the SF bay area at KEPLER'S on Friday, August 24th at 7:00 p.m. It is going to be an awesome event and I am sure to attend. I hope to see you there.

**although KEPLER'S is currently closed for re-construction it will honor this event and will be opened at 6:30pm**

HALLOWED by Cynthia Hand

Hardcover, 403 pages

Published January 17th 2012 by HarperTeen

ISBN: 0061996181

Source: AUDIBLE

Rating: ♥♥♥

For months part-angel Clara Gardner trained to face the raging forest fire from her visions and rescue the alluring and mysterious Christian Prescott from the blaze. But nothing could prepare her for the fateful decisions she would be forced to make that day, or the startling revelation that her purpose—the task she was put on earth to accomplish—is not as straightforward as she thought.

Now, torn between her increasingly complicated feelings for Christian and her love for her boyfriend, Tucker, Clara struggles to make sense of what she was supposed to do the day of the fire. And, as she is drawn further into the world of part angels and the growing conflict between White Wings and Black Wings, Clara learns of the terrifying new reality that she must face: Someone close to her will die in a matter of months. With her future uncertain, the only thing Clara knows for sure is that the fire was just the beginning.

My Thoughts:
  
UNEARTHLY by Cynthia Hand was one of my favorite reads for 2011, it had an original premise and was filled with a good dose of mystery, romance and action. So, it stands to reason that I was very excited to read it's sequel, HALLOWED. Yet, after reading it I was left me a bit unsettled.

Why?

This new story picks up shortly after UNEARTHLY ends, but from the first few chapters I could tell that something was different from it's predecessor. In HALLOWED we have the same place and characters, but now Clara has a new vision, one that confuses her then distresses her making her fight against her fate...yet again. Sound familiar? Yet, despite Clara's interpretation of her vision, nothing can prepare her for the truth.

While HALLOWED presented it's own different mysterious plot points and heart breaking issues, it lacked the faster pace that was a major driving point for me. I was well past the half way mark when it finally picked up it's pace and began to consume. Maybe it was the new dream sequence that Clara  kept going through, I am not sure but it just did not work for me. Then as the truth to her vision came to light I was bummed out, totally not expecting it and then could not get past certain aspects of how situations played out. Especially in regards to Clara and her romantic entanglements? Tucker or Christian? Really? Another aspect of it predecessor that I enjoyed that seemed to crumble away as now she seemed torn between her present and future. I was not left reading this novel with a warm fuzzy but with more of a weighted heart and am not sure how things are going to progress from here especially when a few issues seemed to dangle and I am hopeful that it will be resolved with it's next novel.

For fans of UNEARTHLY I am sure that the lure of reading it's sequel is strong, but am not sure if it is enough to keep you interested in reading what will happen next. I am still on the fence and only time will tell if I continue. 

Today I have an amazing guest post made of RockStar proportions from author  LESLEY LIVINGSTON on my stop for the Authors ARE Rockstars tour, and not only will she have a giveaway of STARLING but she will share some exclusive content showcasing her work on creating the audiobook for STARLING **Bows head and gives rock anthem salute**

When I first read LESLEY LIVINGSTON'S debut novel WONDROUS STRANGE, I became an instant fan girl because I  knew that Lesley had created something magical. She had managed to write an incredibly amazing novel that was the amalgamation of everything that I adore in a story: Romance, Mythology, Adventure, Mystery and a gorgeously hot character named Sonny. Since then, Lesley has written a few more novels and her most recent novel STARLING, will hit  book shelves everywhere on August, 28th 2012.

Being a huge fan of audiobooks you can only imagine how very happy I have been to listen to Lesley's audiobooks because she does her own readings. If you have already listened to any of her audiobooks then you can understand why I enjoy them so much and if you have not,  then you just need to watch the exclusive video showcasing Lesley while she is working on her audiobook of STARLING to understand why you should.

ZOMG!!! How incredibly amazing was that video? Although I have already read STARLING I know that I will have to listen to the audiobook and if you are interested as I am I have some information for you. 

The downloadable audiobook will be on sale 8/28, simultaneous w/the hardcover. The audio can be purchased from Audible.com as well as iTunes, eMusic, and a number of other retailers. Since you can’t preorder audio like you can hardcovers, the title won’t appear on these sites until the on-sale date.

 "Love is just the beginning... of the end."

Mason Starling is a champion fencer for Gosforth Academy, but she’s never had to fight for her life. Until now. When a ferocious storm rips through Manhattan and unleashes terrifying creatures onto Gosforth’s campus, Mason barely escapes alive. Without help from the mysterious stranger who appeared in the midst of the storm, she might not have made it at all. But now, in the aftermath, Mason’s life begins to spin dramatically, mystically out of control, and the only one who seems able to help her is the stranger who can remember nothing but his name: Fennrys Wolf.

As Mason and Fenn uncover more about Fenn’s past and the strange events that surround them, they realize that Mason’s family — and its dark allegiance to the ancient Norse gods — is at the center of everything. A predetermined fate seems to be closing in on Mason, but is it possible to change one’s destiny?

Now for a cool giveaway. Lesley Livington is giving a signed of STARLING and all you have to do is enter fill out the form below to win. GOOD LUCK!! and remember to spread the word.
  a Rafflecopter giveaway

Jill at Breaking the Spine started this and I believe that it's awesome" This blog post is to alert those that visit about "the" book that we cannot wait to get our hands on.

This Wednesday I am WoWing THE PREY by Andrew Fukuda, it is book two in The Hunt series and I absolutely cannot wait to read this next installment. I don't know about you but THE HUNT scared the pants right off me. It was a book that did not romanticize vampires while having a storyline that was insanely wild and intriguing. I simply adored it and cannot wait to find out what happens next...AGGGGG! The torture is killing me.

01/22/13

THE PREY

The Hunt, Book Two

by Andrew Fukuda

ISBN-13: 978-1250005113

Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin

Pages: 304

Amazon, B&N, Goodreads

**If you have not read this series the next bit is Highly Spoilerific, proceed with caution**

The second book in the electrifying The Hunt trilogy — perfect for fans ofThe Hunger Games!

For Gene and the remaining humans, death is just a heartbeat away. On the run and hunted by society, they must find a way to survive in The Vast... and avoid the hungry predators tracking them in the dark. But they're not the only things following Gene. He's haunted by the girl he left behind and his burgeoning feelings for Sissy, the human girl at his side.

When they discover a refuge of exiled humans living high in the mountains, Gene and his friends think they're finally safe. Led by a group of intensely secretive elders, the civilization begins to raise more questions than answers. A strict code of behavior is the rule, harsh punishments are meted out, young men are no where to be found - and Gene begins to wonder if the world they've entered is just as evil as the one they left behind. As life at the refuge grows more perilous, he and Sissy only grow closer. In an increasingly violent world, all they have is each other... if they can stay alive.

SUCH WICKED INTENT by Kenneth Oppel

Hardcover, 310 pages

Published August 21st 2012 by Simon & Schuster Books For Young Readers (first published August 2nd 2012) 

ISBN: 1442403187

Source: Publisher

Rating:  ♥♥♥♥

Devotion turns deadly in this second Gothic thriller from Kenneth Oppel.When does obsession become madness? Tragedy has forced sixteen-year-old Victor Frankenstein to swear off alchemy forever. He burns the Dark Library. He vows he will never dabble in the dark sciences again—just as he vows he will no longer covet Elizabeth, his brother’s betrothed.

If only these things were not so tempting.

When he and Elizabeth discover a portal into the spirit world, they cannot resist. Together with Victor’s twin, Konrad, and their friend Henry, the four venture into a place of infinite possibilities where power and passion reign. But as they search for the knowledge to raise the dead, they unknowingly unlock a darkness from which they may never return.

My Thoughts:

While THIS DARK ENDEAVOR is a fine Gothic read brimming with dark madness, its sequel, SUCH WICKED INTENT by Kenneth Oppel is a perfect example of how a second book in a trilogy can be spot on brilliant and fascinating.  For me, it was an eagerly anticipated novel that was delightfully mysterious and seductive.

The sequel of SUCH WICKED INTENT begins days after it's predecessor with Victor's father obliterating the dark library and Victor's hopes of ever seeing his brother again. Victor understands and is saddened by this act but it is nothing compared to the grief that he and Elizabeth are experiencing over recent events. It is this grief and desperation that causes him to quickly turn on his vow when he finds a gateway into the spirit realm, unleashing a possibility that he cannot deny. Soon he and his trusted accomplices devise a plan that is deadly as it is ingenious, but such hopes and dreams are truly the stuff made of nightmares.

I thought I was prepared for the whatever Kenneth Oppel had in store for me with SUCH WICKED INTENT but I was not ready for the nefarious nature of it's storyline. This world that he has created is unique as it is mysterious and with a gothic edge that only adds to it's glamor. It is beautifully sinister while exuding a seductive quality much like the black butterflies (now I am totally scared of them, eeep!!) that were paramount to this storyline. Yet, despite that I was wholly seduced by this deliciously dark read that was filled with moments of pure adrenaline rushed fear and anticipation.

While hosting a unique storyline this book also presents a very memorable character:  Victor Frankenstein. An individual whom is utterly captivating and his inner dialogue gives one insight to his darker, baser self. He is constantly battling those demons and most times he is in control, but when his innermost beast takes over it provides for some intoxicating reading. Victor is complex and at times intense and conceited but it is always known that love rules his every action and I could read about him all day. Now I cannot wait until the next journey that he embarks on because I know it will be insanely addictive.

SUCH WICKED INTENT is a must read for fans of THIS DARK ENDEAVOR. It is darker, creepier and better than it's predecessor and well worth every minute.

On Saturday Night Kepler's had a pleasant cupcake soiree and book signing with Suzanne Lazear, author of INNOCENT DARKNESS. It was an intimate gathering filled with cupcakes, laughter and fun and I am glad to have went. I won a Steampunk Taro card set and a nice fan, besides stuffing my face with cupcakes that Suzanne made herself. It was great to meet up with old friends and meet new people and talk about books.

**side note: Although Kepler's is closed they are still hosting book events, so make sure to check out my side bar for upcoming events.

Now you can see why NYMBC is the best for bay area YA events! I know I am attending all of them how about you?

CARNIVAL of SOULS by Melissa Marr

Hardcover, 306 pages

Expected publication: September 4th 2012 by HarperCollins

ISBN: 0061659282

Source: Publisher
Offical Website: CARNIVAL OF SOULS

Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

In a city of daimons, rigid class lines separate the powerful from the power-hungry. And at the heart of The City is the Carnival of Souls, where both murder and pleasure are offered up for sale. Once in a generation, the carnival hosts a deadly competition that allows every daimon a chance to join the ruling elite. Without the competition, Aya and Kaleb would both face bleak futures--if for different reasons. For each of them, fighting to the death is the only way to try to live.

All Mallory knows of The City is that her father--and every other witch there--fled it for a life in exile in the human world. Instead of a typical teenage life full of friends and maybe even a little romance, Mallory scans quiet streets for threats, hides herself away, and trains to be lethal. She knows it's only a matter of time until a daimon finds her and her father, so she readies herself for the inevitable. While Mallory possesses little knowledge of The City, every inhabitant of The City knows of her. There are plans for Mallory, and soon she, too, will be drawn into the decadence and danger that is the Carnival of Souls.

My thoughts:

I have been a fan of Melissa Marr for many years. Her skill at turning words into a story that can take steal my breath and quicken my heart have always amazed me. Now after reading her newest novel, CARNIVAL OF SOULS I am again taken to that place that only she can transport me to and I am forever grateful.

CARNIVAL OF SOULS introduces several different characters POV's all tied to an alternate world ruled by Daimons, and while each is intriguing and unique they all are inexplicably connected. The Carnival of Souls is the competition that allows daimons a chance to change their status in life if they are willing to fight till the death.  Aya, belongs to an alternate world ruled by Daimons, a noble born of the higher caste seeking ultimate freedom by fighting at the Carnival of Souls. Kaleb, is of the lowest caste seeking a better life for him and his pack mate by also engaging in the competition. Mallory, lives in the human world but her upbringing is anything but normal. Raised by a Witch and taught to fight and be lethal, but all the training has not prepared her for the one that is tied to the carnival.

WOW! this book just blew me away. I was sucked into the storyline so fast that I when I became aware of my surroundings, hours had flown by. The only thing that momentarily stopped me was my need for sustenance and once that was fulfilled I was back to my story, gripping the pages for dear life and eager to experience what would happen next. As always Melissa Marr has an talent for creating a world filled with characters that are mulch-faceted and intriguing while having a sensual edge that is intoxicating. I became immersed within each of these character's story lines and I wanted more. Of the three main characters introduced I was drawn to Kaleb, his story was the most intriguing to me for it seemed to encapsulate the nature and need for the Carnival of Souls. Through his experiences I came to understand with awe and well deserved fear, how this world operated. Not to mention that I found him to very smexy a quality that Melissa Marr has a great talent for showcasing.

While I did enjoy this story I did find a few scenes to make me go "What-wha???  Did that just happen?" making me go back and reread certain passages. One scene in particular made me even blush and that rarely happens. Yet, it is all part of the rules for this world of which sex is a big part of. I only question how younger teens will view these moments and what they will think of it. 

Melissa Marr's newest literary creation is nothing short of incredible. Carnival of Souls is a  powerful, dark and insanely sensual tale infused with lore, passion and ultimate survival. A must read for her fans and for those seeking to read something wholly engaging and unforgettable.

 

Sneak a Peek Saturday is a feature that I like to indulge in because I cannot wait to read the tasty tid bits that are put out there for us ravenous readers to enjoy. This Saturday, I have a novel that I am most eager to read, DUST LANDS: Rebel Heart by Moira Young. Blood Read Road was one of my very favorite reads and am happy to have found this tasty bit to keep me happy till October.

10/30/12
REBEL HEART
Dustlands, Book Two
by Moira Young
ISBN-13: 978-1442430006
Marion Lloyd Books, 448 pages.
Amazon, B&N, Goodreads

click on the cover above and enjoy

Danger. Betrayal. Destiny. Passion. 


Saba has rescued her kidnapped brother and defeated the fanatical Tonton. But the price to be paid for her violent victory is terrible. Jack has disappeared--and can no longer be trusted. A new and formidable enemy is on the rise in the dustlands. No one is safe. And Saba must confront the terrible secret hidden in the darkest depths of her soul.

BEAUTIFUL DISASTER by Jamie McGuire

Paperback, 432 pages

Published August 14th 2012 by Atria Books (first published May 26th 2011) 

ISBN: 1476712042

Source: AUDIBLE

Rating:  ♥♥♥

The new Abby Abernathy is a good girl. She doesn’t drink or swear, and she has the appropriate percentage of cardigans in her wardrobe. Abby believes she has enough distance between her and the darkness of her past, but when she arrives at college with her best friend, her path to a new beginning is quickly challenged by Eastern University's Walking One-Night Stand.

Travis Maddox, lean, cut, and covered in tattoos, is exactly what Abby needs—and wants—to avoid. He spends his nights winning money in a floating fight ring, and his days as the ultimate college campus charmer. Intrigued by Abby’s resistance to his appeal, Travis tricks her into his daily life with a simple bet. If he loses, he must remain abstinent for a month. If Abby loses, she must live in Travis’s apartment for the same amount of time. Either way, Travis has no idea that he has met his match.

My Thoughts:

I like to listen to suggestions from other bloggers and readers about books because it broadens my horizons and it can introduce me to some novels that I may not otherwise know about. BEAUTIFUL DISASTER is one of those reads that I purely enjoyed for the addicting, mind-candy-book-crack reading that it was.

BEAUTIFUL DISASTER plays out like Lifetime movie of the week with a Abby a virginal, tough as nails girl that falls for the sexy, tattooed fighter boy named Travis.  She has no business being interested in, but she cannot resist (quel surprise!). Their relationship starts off platonic enough, but slowly and knowingly develop into something more even though they won't admit to themselves or one another.

I know I was addicted to this book when I could not seem to make myself stop. I wanted to see how this story would progress even though I was not surprised by it's storyline. I enjoyed Abby's resistance and Travis' over the top protectiveness (even though it was crazy and a bit scary) but while in throes of reading I was enthralled by it all. It's not until afterwards that I am a bit....things that make you go hmmmm??  about it. I personally could not tolerate someone that was crazy possessive and volatile like Travis so how could I romanticize it enough to read it with no hesitation? *scratches head* Yet, I did without issue and enjoyed it. Like I said, it was book crack.

The characters had issues, yes, but no one is perfect. I liked Abby's storyline and her history the best because it added a bit of unexpected danger to the story. I also adored her best friend and found that she seemed to be the only voice of reason throughout this entire novel and her bits of wisdom seemed to anchor some scenes that were a bit out there. 

So, yes while this book is addictive and twistedly romantic with a storyline that you cannot help but want more of. You will also be left wondering what in the heck happened to turn you into such a puddle of disastrous goo.


Book News:

According to THR Warner Bros. have won the movie rights to Beautiful Disaster which is being toted as a YA version of Fifty Shades?  Article HERE