Along For the Ride

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T13:42:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I have so much to be thankful, but one of them would definitely have to be my amazing followers. ♥ Hope ya'll have a great day :)

Waiting on Wednsday (32)

2011-11-23T11:58:00.000-05:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly meme, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we "can't-wait-to-read".

Bittersweet by Sarah Ockler

Summary:
Once upon a time, Hudson knew exactly what her future looked like. Then a betrayal changed her life, and knocked her dreams to the ground. Now she’s a girl who doesn’t believe in second chances... a girl who stays under the radar by baking cupcakes at her mom’s diner and obsessing over what might have been.

So when things start looking up and she has another shot at her dreams, Hudson is equal parts hopeful and terrified. Of course, this is also the moment a cute, sweet guy walks into her life...and starts serving up some seriously mixed signals. She’s got a lot on her plate, and for a girl who’s been burned before, risking it all is easier said than done.

It’s time for Hudson to ask herself what she really wants, and how much she’s willing to sacrifice to get it. Because in a place where opportunities are fleeting, she knows this chance may very well be her last....

Sarah Ockler is one of my favorite authors, so I was super excited when I found out she's coming out with a new book! The plot sounds great; I have high expectations for this one. :)

Stay by Deb Caletti

2011-11-21T03:30:00.000-05:00

Book review #67
Stay by Deb Caletti
Rating: Five stars

Summary:
Clara's relationship with Christian is intense from the start, and like nothing she’s ever experienced before. But what starts as devotion quickly becomes obsession, and it's almost too late before Clara realizes how far gone Christian is—and what he's willing to do to make her stay.

Now Clara has left the city—and Christian—behind. No one back home has any idea where she is, but she still struggles to shake off her fear. She knows Christian won't let her go that easily, and that no matter how far she runs, it may not be far enough....

Is it normal to think about a book days after you've read it? It's been a week or two and I can't seem to get Stay out of my head. I have a read a few other Deb Calleti books, but none of them captured me like this one.

Alternating chapters between the present, where Clara and her father have escaped to a small town by the beach, to the past where Clara and Christian's relationship develops from a blossoming love to a violent obsession. The alternating chapters were one of my favorite aspects about the book. The fact that you got to see both Clara in the relationship and how she reflected about it after, added so much to the story. It was almost shocking to see how much of herself was lost from her relationship with Christian.

Although the book is about a very delicate subject, it was surprisingly easy to read. The writing is beautiful and rich. At times the plot seemed so alive, making my heart race, scared to discover what was going to happen next. On a lighter note, including footnotes about her own comments, which brought humor to the story.

One might think the story is mainly about Clara and Christian's relationship, but embedded is the relationship with her father, her dead mother, and even her parent's relationship. What captured my attention most was the relationship between Cara and her father. The strong bond they have and the way they care about each other was refreshing.

The beach setting was breathtaking. It made me want to get in the car and drive to the nearest beach that had a lighthouse. The characters she met in the present chapters were well developed and likable. Specifically one character, who melted my heart and gave hope.

Stay is an intense, beautiful story that will be sure to stay with you. It's one of those books I love so much that I could write and write about and never stop. My review doesn't do it justice, you have to read it for yourself to see just how amazing it really is. I borrowed if from the library and it was hard to give it back; I think I'll be buying myself a copy.

In My Mailbox (38)

2011-11-20T10:13:00.000-05:00

Please Ignore Vera Diez by AS. King
Summary:

Vera’s spent her whole life secretly in love with her best friend, Charlie Kahn. And over the years she’s kept a lot of his secrets. Even after he betrayed her. Even after he ruined everything.

So when Charlie dies in dark circumstances, Vera knows a lot more than anyone—the kids at school, his family, even the police. But will she emerge to clear his name? Does she even want to?

The Fox Inheritance by Mary E.Pearson

Summary:

Once there were three. Three friends who loved each other—Jenna, Locke, and Kara. And after a terrible accident destroyed their bodies, their three minds were kept alive, spinning in a digital netherworld. Even in that disembodied nightmare, they were still together. At least at first. When Jenna disappeared, Locke and Kara had to go on without her. Decades passed, and then centuries.

Two-hundred-and-sixty years later, they have been released at last. Given new, perfect bodies, Locke and Kara awaken to a world they know nothing about, where everyone they once knew and loved is long dead.

Everyone except Jenna Fox

What's in your mailbox?

HI!

2011-11-19T20:12:00.000-05:00

I can't even remember the last time I blogged and truly makes me sad. But I've still read some amazing books this year! It's senior year and aside from the college applications/scholarships, life isn't too hectic. I have plenty more time to read and blog. I can't wait to be a part of the blogging community again. <3 Thanks a million to everyone who hasn't unfollowed me! Also, a special shout out to my new followers, I will be checking out your blogs soon. :)

Crank by Ellen Hopkins

2011-06-16T17:09:00.000-04:00

Book review #66
Crank by Ellen Hopkins
Rating: Five stars

Summary:

Kristina Georgia Snow is the perfect daughter: gifted high school junior, quiet, never any trouble. But on a trip to visit her absentee father, Kristina disappears and Bree takes her place. Bree is the exact opposite of Kristina -- she's fearless.

Through a boy, Bree meets the monster: crank. And what begins as a wild, ecstatic ride turns into a struggle through hell for her mind, her soul -- her life.

I have always heard wonderful things about Ellen Hopkin's books, but they never seemed like my cup of tea. After some peer pressure, I decide to cave in and see what all the hype was about. One sitting and two hours or so later I had devoured every word. Crank was extremely addicting and although painful and honest, it was one of the most fascinating books I have read in a very long time.

To be honest, I don't know much about drugs and their effects. Of course I know the typical stereotypes and such, but Crank brought drugs into a whole other perspective. I really got to understand what crystal meth does to a person and how much it changes a person's life.

Kristina was an easy, likable main character. The story begins unveiling her shy, normal persona and the course she takes after meeting a rebellious boy while visiting her unstable father. There Kristina is introduced to the world of meth. Also introduced his her violent, spontaneous alter ego- Bree. Her journey is quite horrifying and painful to read about, but none other than intriguing. I loved how you got to see both sides of Kristina, making her relationships and interests more realistic.

I am a fan of verse novels and I have to admit Ellen Hopkins does it exceptionally well. Her writing was beautiful and will leave you hooked. The words were poetic and so descriptive, it really captivates the reader. The poems are spaced and structured, giving the words an even deeper meaning.

Crank is not an easy book to read, but I am glad to have given it a chance. It's raw and shocking, exploring very important issue. Crank will make you think and see the world from a different view. I'm eager to get my hands on her follow up books!

Daily Dose Monday (31)

2011-05-16T15:48:00.000-04:00

Daily Dose Monday is hosted by Holly over at Good Golly Miss Holly and features inspiring/magical images that you would like to share with your readers :)

Remember me?

2011-05-01T14:24:00.001-04:00

Hey everyone!

It's been way too long. Thankfully, junior year is almost over! I have AP tests this week and the next, so I will be super busy and stressed until then. But, I decided to still squeeze in some time for blogging. Blogging really helps me relieve some of that stress and I REALLY miss it. I'm excited to somewhat get back into the blogging community and catch up on some of your wonderful blogs. After the school year is over, I'll be back for good. ♥ I've been reading some wonderful books lately! Look out for reviews of Sometimes It Happens, Where She Went, So Much Closer and more. :)

And a huge thanks goes out to all my lovely followers who have stuck with me all this time.

Waiting on Wednesday (31)

2011-03-23T16:25:00.000-04:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly meme, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we "can't-wait-to-read".

My Life Undecided By Jessica Brody

Release date: June 7th, 2011

Summary:

PLEASE READ THIS! MY LIFE DEPENDS ON IT!

Okay, maybe that was a bit melodramatic, but I’m sorry, I’m feeling a bit melodramatic at the moment.

Here’s the deal. My name is Brooklyn Pierce, I’m fifteen years old, and I am decisionally challenged. Seriously, I can’t remember the last good decision I made. I can remember plenty of crappy ones though. Including that party I threw when my parents were out of town that accidentally burned down a model home. Yeah, not my finest moment, for sure.

But see, that’s why I started a blog. To enlist readers to make my decisions for me. That’s right. I’m gave up. Threw in the towel. I let someone else be the one to decide which book I read for English. Or whether or not I accepted an invitation to join the debate team from that cute-in-a-dorky-sort-of-way guy who gave me the Heimlich Maneuver in the cafeteria. (Note to self: Chew the melon before swallowing it.) I even let them decide who I dated!

Well, it turns out there are some things in life you simply can’t choose or have chosen for you—like who you fall in love with. And now everything’s more screwed up than ever.

But don’t take my word for it, read the book and decide for yourself. You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll scream in frustration. Or maybe that’s just me. After all, it’s my life.

I loved The Karma Club by Jessica Brody and this sounds just as good! I can definitely relate to the summary; I can't wait to see how this one turns out.

Daily Dose Monday (30)

2011-03-21T15:30:00.001-04:00

Daily Dose Monday is hosted by Holly over at Good Golly Miss Holly and features inspiring/magical images that you would like to share with your readers :)

In My Mailbox (37)

2011-03-20T13:49:00.000-04:00

Where She Went by Gayle Forman
Summary:

It's been three years since the devastating accident ... three years since Mia walked out of Adam's life forever.

Now living on opposite coasts, Mia is Julliard's rising star and Adam is LA tabloid fodder, thanks to his new rock star status and celebrity girlfriend. When Adam gets stuck in New York by himself, chance brings the couple together again, for one last night. As they explore the city that has become Mia's home, Adam and Mia revisit the past and open their hearts to the future - and each other.

Told from Adam's point of view in the spare, lyrical prose that defined If I Stay, Where She Went explores the devastation of grief, the promise of new hope, and the flame of rekindled romance.

I just got this yesterday from Around the World Tours and I'm beyond excited to start it. If I Stay was one of my favorite books, so I have high hopes for this one.

From library/for review:

Love Drugged by James Klise
Summary:

Fifteen-year-old Jamie Bates has a simple strategy for surviving high school: fit in, keep a low profile, and above all, protect his biggest secret--he's gay. But when a classmate discovers the truth, a terrified Jamie does all he can to change who he is. At first, it's easy. Everyone notices when he starts hanging out with Celia Gamez, the richest and most beautiful girl in school. And when he steals an experimental new drug that's supposed to "cure" his attraction to guys, Jamie thinks he's finally going to have a "normal" life.

But as the drug's side effects worsen and his relationship with Celia heats up, Jamie begins to realize that lying and using could shatter the fragile world of deception that he's created-and hurt the people closest to him.

This was my WoW a few months back, so I'm excited to finally get a hold of it. And I just adore the cover.

Jumpstart the World by Catherine Ryan Hyde
Summary:

Elle is a loner. She doesn’t need people. Which is a good thing, because she’s on her own: she had to move into her own apartment so her mother’s boyfriend won’t have to deal with her.

Then she meets Frank, the guy who lives next door. He’s older and has a girlfriend, but Elle can’t stop thinking about him. Frank isn’t like anyone Elle has ever met. He listens to her. He’s gentle. And Elle is falling for him, hard.

But Frank is different in a way that Elle was never prepared for: he’s transgender. And when Elle learns the truth, her world is turned upside down. Now she’ll have to search inside herself to find not only the true meaning of friendship but her own role in jumpstarting the world.

Doesn't this just sound amazing?

What's in your mailbox?

The Lying Game by Sarah Shepard

2011-03-19T17:44:00.000-04:00

Book review #65
The Lying Game by Sarah Shepard
Rating: Four stars

Summary:

I had a life anyone would kill for.

Then someone did.

The worst part of being dead is that there’s nothing left to live for. No more kisses. No more secrets. No more gossip. It’s enough to kill a girl all over again. But I’m about to get something no one else does—an encore performance, thanks to Emma, the long-lost twin sister I never even got to meet.

Now Emma’s desperate to know what happened to me. And the only way to figure it out is to be me—to slip into my old life and piece it all together. But can she laugh at inside jokes with my best friends? Convince my boyfriend she’s the girl he fell in love with? Pretend to be a happy, carefree daughter when she hugs my parents good night? And can she keep up the charade, even after she realizes my murderer is watching her every move?

The Lying Game is down right creepy, entertaining, and will have you on edge at all times. As most Pretty Little Liars fans, I was extremely excited that Sarah Shepard was coming out with another series. I'm happy to say it was just as good. The plot was so innovative, that it provokes lingering thoughts long after finishing the last few pages.

The story unfolds with Emma's "normal" life, living with her foster family, trying to get by. Quickly, Emma stumbles across her long lost twin, Sutton. She decides to pack up and meet up with her, hoping for a heart-warming reunion. Emma never gets to actually meet Sutton, she gets something way more personal. Sutton is dead and it's Emma's job to live her in shoes, hopefully unraveling the mystery of her murder.

I really liked how readers were told that Sutton was dead right off the bat; even though that was one of the few things you were sure of. I actually enjoyed how I was kept guessing the whole way through. What did help quite a bit, was the intertwining of thoughts between Emma and Sutton. Shepard did a wonderful job and creating a distinction between the two, although it did take time to get used to. They are complete opposites of each other, which allows readers to see the twos perspective of the other's life.

Drama, lies, and mystery fill each and every page. At times, it became dangerous, which definitely helped kept me intrigued. One thing is for sure, no one does a mystery quite like Sarah Shepard. I have a feeling each book is going to get better and better. Regardless, Pretty Little Liars fans will fall in love with this book. The Lying Game was a great start to one dangerous, suspenseful series.

Daily Dose Monday (28)

2011-03-14T15:55:00.000-04:00

Daily Dose Monday is hosted by Holly over at Good Golly Miss Holly and features inspiring/magical images that you would like to share with your readers :)

Help, tips & opinions please!

2011-03-13T20:14:00.002-04:00

Hey everyone! :)

On Tuesday, I'm very honored to be hosting a workshop about blogging at a center downtown. This is my first time doing something like this and I'm not exactly a blogging "expert", so I would love your help!

The tagline is, "Do you dream of creating a blog about something you adore? Learn from a fellow teen, Sara Shalash, who has created a wonderful and successful blog (www.SarasBookJourney.blogspot.com). She’ll teach you how to get started and how to keep it going!"

Based on that, I'm thinking of sharing my own personal story of how and why I started my blog. I also had the idea of making a handout beforehand of tips and steps on keeping up/starting a blog. Any ideas on what to include?

Also, I'm thinking about discussing, layout/theme, content, advertising, and communication. Is there anything else I should add? Or any feedback or comments would help out a ton!

Thank you!

In My Mailbox (36)

2011-03-13T14:23:00.000-04:00

Designated Ugly Fat Friend by Kody Keplinger
Summary:

Seventeen-year-old Bianca Piper is cynical and loyal, and she doesn’t think she’s the prettiest of her friends by a long shot. She’s also way too smart to fall for the charms of man-slut and slimy school hottie Wesley Rush. In fact, Bianca hates him. And when he nicknames her “the Duff,” she throws her Coke in his face.

But things aren’t so great at home right now, and Bianca is desperate for a distraction. She ends up kissing Wesley. Worse, she likes it. Eager for escape, Bianca throws herself into a closeted enemies-with-benefits relationship with him.

Until it all goes horribly awry. It turns out Wesley isn’t such a bad listener, and his life is pretty screwed up, too. Suddenly Bianca realizes with absolute horror that she’s falling for the guy she thought she hated more than anyone.

Not that Kind of Girl by Siobhan Vivian

Summary:

Natalie Sterling wants to be in control. She wants her friends to be loyal. She wants her classmates to elect her student council president. She wants to find the right guy, not the usual jerk her school has to offer. She wants a good reputation, because she believes that will lead to good things.

But life is messy, and it's very hard to be in control of it. Not when there are freshman girls running around in a pack, trying to get senior guys to sleep with them. Not when your friends have secrets they're no longer comfortable sharing. Not when the boy you once dismissed ends up being the boy you wants to sleep with yourself - but only in secret, with nobody ever finding out.

Slut or saint? Winner or loser? Natalie is getting tired of these forced choices - and is now going to find a way to live life in the sometimes messy, sometimes wonderful in-between.

I Will Save You by Matt De La Pena

Summary:

Kidd is running from his past and his future. No mom, no dad, and there’s nothing for him at the group home but therapy. He doesn’t belong at the beach where he works either, unless he finds a reason to stay.

Olivia is blond hair, blue eyes, rich dad. The prettiest girl in Cardiff. She’s hiding something from Kidd—but could they ever be together anyway?

Devon is mean, mysterious, and driven by a death wish. A best friend and worst enemy. He followed Kidd all the way to the beach and he’s not leaving until he teaches him a few lessons about life. And Olivia.

Please Ignore Vera Dietz by A.S. King

Summary:

Vera’s spent her whole life secretly in love with her best friend, Charlie Kahn. And over the years she’s kept a lot of his secrets. Even after he betrayed her. Even after he ruined everything.

So when Charlie dies in dark circumstances, Vera knows a lot more than anyone—the kids at school, his family, even the police. But will she emerge to clear his name? Does she even want to?

Blood on My Hands by Todd Strasser

Summary:

Callie is at an October keg party in the woods, when she notices that her friend Katherine has gone missing. The kids spread out to look for her and Callie finds her, lying on a path, with a big, bloody fake knife in her. She reaches for the knife and raises it, only to discover, to her horror, that it is real. At that moment, another of the search party stumbles on them, and takes a photo of Callie holding the bloody knife. Now she is the suspect in a grisly murder. How can she prove her innocence - and find the true murderer?

What's in your mailbox?

Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins

2011-03-12T12:13:00.003-05:00

Book review #64
Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins
Rating: Five stars

Summary:
Anna is looking forward to her senior year in Atlanta, where she has a great job, a loyal best friend, and a crush on the verge of becoming more. Which is why she is less than thrilled about being shipped off to boarding school in Paris—until she meets Étienne St. Claire: perfect, Parisian (and English and American, which makes for a swoon-worthy accent), and utterly irresistible. The only problem is that he's taken, and Anna might be, too, if anything comes of her almost-relationship back home.

I've heard so many amazing things about this book, but I never fully understood. Reading the summary, it sounds interesting, but nothing special. I finally understand what all the hype is about.

My love for Anna and the French Kiss is going to make it very difficult to review. I want to marry this book. I want to live in this book. Most of us are familiar with the moment when you're reading a book and suddenly the whole world around you does not exist anymore; this is the case for Anna and French Kiss. It has an element of some sort that makes it extremely addicting, allowing me to devour it in close to one sitting. Near the end, I found myself rationing out the last pages to savor every last minute of it.

The story began with Anna being sent to boarding school in Paris for her senior year of high school. At first, she's reluctant to leave her friends and job at the movie theater, terrified of being away from home. But almost immediately, Anna and the readers are transported to Paris- a new world, a new life of endless possibilities.

I can't pinpoint exactly what made this book so amazing; it's a tie between the romance and the characters. The romance was one of the most flawless amazing things I've ever read about it. The romance is very gradual and starts out as a friendship based level. Friends or more, they always had a bond, they were there for each other through thick and thin. St.Clair or Entienne was so swoon-worthy, I'll admit if I fell for him too. I don't think I've ever read about a male in fiction, so perfect in my eyes, flaws and all. Their relationship was more than real, it was the closest thing I've read that compares to a real life romance.

The characters are so realistic, you start to feel as if they are your own real life friends. They are flawed actual people, that will leave your heart aching. Anna is quirky and authentic. I love the fact that she loves old movies and is always herself no matter what. She was very easy to relate to and at times reminded me of myself. It was refreshing to finally read about someone who didn't let boys control her, who had interests other than the opposite sex. Not to mention she is hilarious; Anna's commentary will leave you laughing out loud and most likely having a huge grin on your face throughout the book. The minor characters- Josh, Rashmi, and Meredith- were just as well developed and fantastic as the main characters. Together they formed their own little family.

This book will have you wanting to drop everything and fly to Paris as soon as possible. The descriptions of the food had my mouth watering. The scenery, the beauty, and the architecture had me yearning to experience it for myself. Paris is such a beautiful setting for a book, it makes things appear magical.

You honestly won't be able to understand the amazement of this book without reading it for yourself. Not only is Anna and the French Kiss a love story, but it deals with more serious issues like family and illnesses, which made it even more lovable. Anyone who enjoys charming, well written books, set in one of the most romantic/amazing cities in the world will fall in love with this book.

Waiting on Wednesday (30)

2011-03-09T19:08:00.000-05:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly meme, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we "can't-wait-to-read".

Bitter End by Jennifer Brown

Release date: May 10th, 2011

Summary:

When Alex falls for the charming new boy at school, Cole, a handsome, funny, sports star who adores her, she can't believe she's finally found her soul mate-someone who truly understands her and loves her for who she really is.

At first, Alex is blissfully happy. Sure, Cole seems a little jealous of her relationship with her best friends, Zack and Bethany, but what guy would want his girlfriend spending all of her time with another boy? But as the months pass, Alex can no longer ignore Cole's small put-downs, pinches, or increasingly violent threats. As Alex struggles to come to terms with the sweet boyfriend she fell in love with and the boyfriend whose "love" she no longer recognizes, she is forced to choose - between her "true love" and herself.

I was so excited when I discovered Jennifer Brown was coming out with another book. The Hate List by her was amazing, so I'm sure this will be just the same. It sounds like a very relatable story that many teenagers go through. I can't wait to try it out. :)

In My Mailbox (35)

2011-02-27T09:23:00.000-05:00

Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins
Summary:

Anna is looking forward to her senior year in Atlanta, where she has a great job, a loyal best friend, and a crush on the verge of becoming more. Which is why she is less than thrilled about being shipped off to boarding school in Paris—until she meets Étienne St. Claire: perfect, Parisian (and English and American, which makes for a swoon-worthy accent), and utterly irresistible. The only problem is that he's taken, and Anna might be, too, if anything comes of her almost-relationship back home.

I already started this one and it's so good and addictive. ♥

The Lying Game by Sara Shepard
Summary:

I had a life anyone would kill for.

Then someone did.

Sara Shepard is amazing. I've been waiting to read this since I first found about it. I'm sure it'll be just great. :) And I heard it was going to be a TV show this summer!

What's in your mailbox?

Teaser Tuesday (19)

2011-02-15T19:59:00.000-05:00

Teaser Tuesday is hosted by MizB over at Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along. Just do the following:
-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!

Teaser:

"He says my name and his voice his so hoarse and hypnotic it pulls me up onto my feet, pulls me across miles of shame and guilt. I don't want to go to him, but I do want to too. "

-Pg.36,The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson

"I almost expect the trees to lower their branches when we pass, the stars to hand down some light. I breathe in the horsey scent of eucalyptus, the thick sugary pine, aware of each breath I take, how each one keeps me in the world longer. "

pg. 76, The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson

Sorry, I definitely cheated this time! I even wanted to post a third teaser. The whole book was filled with amazing lines to choose from. I'm not even half way done yet, I'm trying to ration it out, so it won't end. <3

You Wish by Mandy Hubbard

2011-02-11T15:41:00.000-05:00

Book review #63
You Wish by Mandy Hubbard
Rating: Four and 1/2 stars

Summary:

Kayla McHenry's sweet sixteen sucks! Her dad left, her grades dropped, and her BFF is dating the boy Kayla's secretly loved for years. Blowing out her candles, Kayla thinks: I wish my birthday wishes actually came true. Because they never freakin' do.

Kayla wakes the next day to a life-sized, bright pink My Little Pony outside her window. Then a year's supply of gumballs arrives. A boy named Ken with a disturbing resemblance to the doll of the same name stalks her. As the ghosts of Kayla's wishes-past appear, they take her on a wild ride . . . but they MUST STOP. Because when she was fifteen? She wished Ben Mackenzie would kiss her. And Ben is her best friend's boyfriend.

You Wish has to be one of the funnest, cutest, quirky books I've ever read. The insane humor and interesting concept made it a perfect read to lighten up your mood. Romance and some more serious events balance out the fun, turning You Wish into a perfect read. Before picking this one up, I expected a predictable fluffy read, but it surprised me in more than one way.

Hubbard creates an average teen named Kayla. She doesn't care what anyone else thinks and is just herself. She also has a great personality, making her likable. Her main problems mostly consist of the whole being in love Ben, her best friend's boyfriend, and dealing with her workaholic problem. But bigger problems arise when her sixteen birthday wish comes true. All her past birthday wishes start coming to life. Imagine a real life Ken, a pink pony, a lifetime supply of gumballs, and worst of all a kiss from Ben...

The characters were hilarious, as were the wishes. The wishes kept on getting better and more crazy as they went along. I would eagerly wait to see what was thrown at Kayla next. As for the characters, I easily connected with each and every one of them. Ben and "Raggedy Ann" were my favorite. Ben was what most girls look for in a guy-down to earth, sweet, and funny. I absolutely loved whatever connection Kayla and Ben had. Anne on the other hand, was the funnest thing to watch transition from doll to human.

Even though the plot was funny and entertaining, it had a more serious note, giving readers a powerful message. Over the course of the wishes, Kayla really got to find herself while learning not to grow up too fast.

You Wish is very original and definitely one of my favorites of the year! Anyone who loves romances and laugh out loud books, will eat this up. In fact, pretty much anyone would enjoy this one. I know I'm going out to by myself a copy to reread in the future.

Waiting on Wednsday (29)

2011-02-09T15:45:00.000-05:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly meme, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we "can't-wait-to-read".

Sometime It Happens by Lauren Barnholdt
Release date: July 12th 2011
Summary:

On the last day of her junior year, Hannah's boyfriend Ryan dumped her. Facing a summer of loneliness, Hannah turns to her best friend Ava for comfort. Ava does what BFFs do: she stays by Hannah's side...until it's time for Ava to head up to Maine for the summer. Also left behind is Ava's boyfriend, Noah, who's such a great guy he gets Hannah a job at the diner he waits tables at. Slowly, Hannah comes out of her funk thanks to Noah's good conversation and their fun times at the diner. But things get complicated when their friendship turns into attraction--and one night, into a passionate kiss. The novel opens on the first day of senior year; the day Hannah is going to see Ava, Ryan, and Noah all in one place. Over the course of the day secrets and betrayals are revealed, and alliances are broken and reformed. In the end, everyone is paired up once again, but not the way you might think...

Lauren Barnholdt is one of my favorite authors, so I was excited to hear she's coming out with more books! Lucky for me, I signed up for a book tour;hopefully I won't have to wait too long. (:

Daily Dose Monday (27)

2011-02-07T18:44:00.000-05:00

Daily Dose Monday is hosted by Holly over at Good Golly Miss Holly and features inspiring/magical images that you would like to share with your readers :)

In My Mailbox (34)

2011-02-06T10:45:00.001-05:00

In My Mailbox is a meme originally hosted by Kristi over at The Story Siren (click for more information) that shares all the new books you've bought, borrowed, received, or traded for the week.

Here are all the books I bought for a total of 8 dollars! :)

Bought/for review:

Chasing Brooklyn by Lisa Schroeder

Summary:

Restless souls and empty heart.

Brooklyn can't sleep. Her boyfriend, Lucca, died only a year ago, and now her friend Gabe has just died of an overdose. Every time she closes her eyes, Gabe's ghost is there waiting for her. She has no idea what he wants or why it isn't Lucca visiting her dreams.

Nico can't stop. He's always running, trying to escape the pain of losing his brother, Lucca. But when Lucca's ghost begins leaving messages, telling Nico to help Brooklyn, emotions come crashing to the surface.

As the nightmares escalate and the messages become relentless, Nico reaches out to Brooklyn. But neither of them can admit that they're being haunted. Until they learn to let each other in, not one soul will be able to rest.

I've been wanting to read this for awhile and when I saw a hardcover for so cheap I knew I had to get it! I've heard great things, so I can't wait.

The Bermudez Triangle by Maureen Johnson
Summary:

Lifelong best friends Nina Bermudez, Avery Dekker, and Melanie Forrest face their first separation the summer before their senior year when Nina attends a ten-week summer program at Stanford. Nina returns home bursting with stories about Steve, her summer romance. But she soon learns the shocking truth about what her friends were up to while she was gone when she sees Mel and Avery . . . kissing. The friendship is rocked by what feels like the ultimate challenge. But it's only the beginning of a sometimes painful, sometimes funny, always gripping journey as three girls discover who they are and what they really want.

I love Maureen Johnson, so I'm sure this one is great. It also happens to be a splashproof read- aka 100% water proof! :)

How To Take the Ec Out of Ex-Boyfriend by Janette Rallison
Summary:

Sixteen-year-old Giovanna Petrizzo finds it hard enough to fit in. Three years since her family moved to Texas, she's still the newcomer compared to everyone around her. It doesn't help matters when her twin brother, Dante, takes on the mayor's son by running for class president. The least she could expect, though, would be for her boyfriend, Jesse, to support their cause. But Jesse's apparent defection triggers Giovanna's rash emotional side, and before she knows it, she's turned Jesse from the boy of her dreams to the exboyfriend she dreams of winning back.

I haven't heard much about this one, but I"m in love with the cover!

The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants by Ann Brashares
Summary:

A funky pair of dungarees and a strong friendship lie at the heart of this compelling coming-of-age novel. During the first summer they'll be separated from each other, four friends share a pair of second-hand jeans...and experience happiness, heartbreak, and all the complications of growing up.

I've already read and loved this one, but I couldn't pass a 50 cent book to keep on the bookshelf :)

Meet Me at the Boardwalk by Erin Taft
Summary:

Growing up in the resort town of Seashell Point, Jade, Megan, and Miles are best friends, and spend their summers working at the Clam Shack, making fun of the snooty summer people, and chilling on the boardwalk. But this summer, everything's different. Not only does Jade have her house to herself -- can you say parties? - but there's that tiny little issue of Megan's giant crush on Miles. Then there's the mysterious new girl who catches Miles's eye, and the threat that their beloved boardwalk will be torn down. This is one summer the friends will NEVER forget!

I love these fluffy summer reads to lighten up the mood.

This Lullaby by Sarah Dessen
Summary:

When it comes to relationships, Remy doesn't mess around. After all, she's learned all there is to know from her mother, who's currently working on husband number five. But there's something about Dexter that seems to defy all of Remy's rules. He certainly doesn't seem like Mr. Right. For some reason, however, Remy just can't seem to shake him. Could it be that Remy's starting to understand what those love songs are all about?

I love Sarah Dessen and I'm surprised I haven't read this one yet! It sounds great.

Red: Teenage Girls in America Write on What Fires up Their Lives Today edited by Amy Goldwasser
Summary:

For every teen girl who thinks she’s alone, and every adult who’s dared to try to figure her out, comes this eye-opening collection in the spirit of New York Times bestseller Ophelia Speaks. In Red, fifty-eight girls—ranging in age from thirteen to nineteen, and writing from across the spectrum of geographic, socioeconomic, racial, and religious upbringings—share “heartbreaking, hilarious, and often harrowing” (Francine Prose) essays about everything from politics to pop culture; from post-Katrina New Orleans to Johnny Depp; from the loneliness of losing a best friend to the loathing or pride they feel about their bodies.

The authors of Red are brave and honest documentarians of their own lives. These girls are the best shades of red (not pink): a little bit angry, a lot passionate. They’re on fire, and their essays speak gloriously for the future.

I've already read some of this and I LOVE it. It's kind of like Chicken Soup, but more brutal and honest.

What's in your mailbox?

Help please!

2011-02-05T16:36:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone!

I've been asked by the library to set up a book display. The theme for the display are fairytale turned into novels. An example would be Beastly by Alex Flinn. I can't really think of many, so I would LOVE your input and opinions. It would be very much appreciated. Thank you!

I hope everyone is enjoying their weekend. :)

Waiting on Wednesday (28)

2011-02-02T18:29:00.000-05:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly meme, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we "can't-wait-to-read".

Miles From Ordinary by Carol Lynch Williams
Release date: March 15, 2011
Summary:

Thirteen-year-old Lacey wakes to a beautiful summer morning excited to begin her new job at the library, just as her mother is supposed to start work at the grocery store. Lacey hopes that her mother's ghosts have finally been laid to rest; after all, she seems so much better these days, and they really do need the money. But as the hours tick by and memories come flooding back, a day full of hope spins terrifyingly out of control....

I was so delighted to hear Carol Lynch Williams had another book coming out! The Chosen One and Glimpse were both amazing, and this should be no exception. I love the title and cover as well. I can't wait :)

Freefall by Mindi Scott

2011-01-27T20:32:00.000-05:00

Book review # 62
Freefall by Mindi Scott
Rating: Five stars

Summary:
Seth McCoy was the last person to see his best friend, Isaac, alive, and the first to find him dead. It was just another night, just another party, just another time when Isaac drank too much and passed out on the lawn. Only this time, Isaac didn't wake up.

Convinced that his own actions led to his friend's death, Seth is torn between turning his life around . . . or losing himself completely.Then he meets Rosetta: so beautiful and so different from everything and everyone he's ever known. But Rosetta has secrets of her own, and Seth soon realizes he isn't the only one who needs saving . . .

Freefall is one of those books you are sure to not forget. I've been so busy lately, but after lying in bed a couple of nights after finishing Freefall, thinking about a scene between Seth and Rosetta, I knew I had to share the love. I adore and admire Mindi Scott for writing such a powerful, emotional, realistic debut novel. Freefall isn't just any novel, it's one that sends a message; one that could possibly affect or change lives. Scott easily portrayed the importance of making decisions, pushing past fears, and drinking.

Finally, we get to read about an accurate male point of view. I felt so close to Seth; his emotions poured through the pages. I found myself feeling almost as emotional as him. Seth is going through a tough time, with his best friend Issac dying from drinking too much. Drinking and partying is the norm for everyone around him, but Seth isn't sure he wants to live that life anymore. Living in a trailer park, playing in a band with his brother and friends, not passing school; is what Seth is used to. Meeting Rosetta is just the beginning,some things are going to have to change...

What I loved the most was watching the journey and transformation Seth and Rosetta went through. They both seem so different, but the closer you look, the more alike they seem. Their relationship was beautiful, it changed and developed until the very last page. Together they experienced so many firsts, at times it was painfully realistic. I was very grateful for the minor characters as well, they were interesting and vital in helping Seth move on with his life.

There is so many things I have to say Freefall, but I feel like nothing will serve it justice. With the romance, drama, and intensity Freefall is one of a kind. The scenes were written so beautfully, it was almost like a movie. I could easily visulize the characters and places around town; when the characters spoke I could pracrically hear them talking. You become so absorbed that you almost forget what's happening around you. Do yourself a favor and get your hands on Freefall as soon as you can.

Daily Dose Monday (26)

2011-01-24T15:54:00.001-05:00

Daily Dose Monday is hosted by Holly over at Good Golly Miss Holly and features inspiring/magical images that you would like to share with your readers :)

This one is my sister and her husband on her wedding day! <3

Here's another one from the wedding day :)

These last two were taken by my sister from her honeymoon in Hawaii. This was her backyard (:

In My Mailbox (33)

2011-01-23T19:43:00.006-05:00

In My Mailbox is a meme originally hosted by Kristi over at The Story Siren (click for more information) that shares all the new books you've bought, borrowed, received, or traded for the week.

I noticed some of my favorite blogs stopped updating and I really don't want to follow in their footsteps. Although I haven't been really blogging, I've been reading probably more than ever (:

Library books/for review:

Crazy by Han Nolan

Summary:

Fifteen-year-old Jason has fallen upon bad times—his mother has died and his father has succumbed to mental illness. As he tries to hold his crazy father and their crumbling home together, Jason relies on a host of imaginary friends for guidance as he stumbles along trying not to draw attention to his father’s deteriorating condition.

Both heartbreaking and funny, CRAZY lives up to the intense and compelling characters Han Nolan is praised for. As Jason himself teeters on the edge of insanity, Nolan uncovers the clever coping system he develops for himself and throws him a lifeline in the guise of friendship.

The Scorch Trials (Maze Runner #2) by James Dashner
Summary:

Solving the Maze was supposed to be the end. No more puzzles. No more variables. And no more running. Thomas was sure that escape meant he and the Gladers would get their lives back. But no one really knew what sort of life they were going back to.

In the Maze, life was easy. They had food, and shelter, and safety . . . until Teresa triggered the end. In the world outside the Maze, however, the end was triggered long ago.

Burned by sun flares and baked by a new, brutal climate, the earth is a wasteland. Government has disintegrated—and with it, order—and now Cranks, people covered in festering wounds and driven to murderous insanity by the infectious disease known as the Flare, roam the crumbling cities hunting for their next victim . . . and meal.

The Gladers are far from finished with running. Instead of freedom, they find themselves faced with another trial. They must cross the Scorch, the most burned-out section of the world, and arrive at a safe haven in two weeks. And WICKED has made sure to adjust the variables and stack the odds against them.

Thomas can only wonder—does he hold the secret of freedom somewhere in his mind? Or will he forever be at the mercy of WICKED?

All You Get is Me by Yvonne Prinz
Summary:

A summer of love, loss, and justice.
Things were complicated enough for Roar, even before her father decided to yank her out of the city and go organic. Suddenly, she’s a farm girl, albeit a reluctant one, selling figs at the farmers’ market and developing her photographs in a ramshackle shed. Caught between a troublemaking sidekick named Storm, a brooding, easy-on-the-eyes L.A. boy, and a father on a human rights crusade that challenges the fabric of the farm community, Roar is going to have to tackle it all—even with dirt under her fingernails and her hair pulled back with a rubber band meant for asparagus.

A big thanks goes to Goodreads for this one! I won it in Goodreads Firstreads (:

The Sweetness of Salt by Cecilia Galante
Summary:

Julia just graduated as her high school valedictorian, has a full ride to college in the fall and a coveted summer internship clerking for a federal judge. But when her older sister, Sophie, shows up at the graduation determined to reveal some long buried secrets, Julia's carefully constructed plans come to a halt. Instead of the summer she had painstakingly laid out, Julia follows Sophie back to Vermont, where Sophie is opening a bakery—and struggling with some secrets of her own. What follows is a summer of revelations—some heartwarming, some heartbreaking, and all slowly pointing Julia toward a new understanding of both herself and of the sister she never really knew.

The Kid Table by Andrea Seigel
Summary:

Ingrid Bell and her five teenage cousins are such a close-knit group that they don't really mind sitting at the kid table—even if they have to share it with a four-year-old. But then Brianne, the oldest cousin, lands a seat at the adult table and leaves her cousins shocked and confused. What does it take to graduate from the kid table?

Over the course of five family events, Ingrid chronicles the coming-of-age of her generation. Her cousins each grapple with growing pains, but it is Ingrid who truly struggles as she considers what it means to grow up. When first love comes in the form of first betrayal (he's Brianne's boyfriend), Ingrid is forced to question her own personality and how she fits into her family. The cousins each take their own path toward graduating into adulthood—only to realize that maybe the kid table was where they wanted to be all along.

I also bought seven books today for about 8 dollars! They are still on hold, so I'll post them for next week's IMM. Miss you all, I hope everyone is enjoying the winter! (:

What's in your mailbox?

Finally...

2010-12-23T22:18:00.002-05:00

Hi everyone! It's finally winter break :) The papers, the homework, the stress is all gone..for now at least. It's been a long semester, I'm definitely planning on doing things differently and prioritizing more efficiently next semester. It's going to be a busy break with my sister getting married on New Years and lots of family time, but I've FINALLY been able to just relax and read, read, and read some more :) I have some great things planned for the blog..upcoming reviews of The View from the Top by Hillary Frank, Party by Tom Leeven, Sea by Heidi King and more! AND my blog anniversary is creeping up! Any contest ideas? Oh and happy holidays everyone <3

Daily Dose Monday (25)

2010-12-06T22:03:00.001-05:00

Daily Dose Monday is hosted by Holly over at Good Golly Miss Holly and features inspiring/magical images that you would like to share with your readers :)

Waiting on Wednesday (27)

2010-12-01T12:10:00.000-05:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly meme, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we "can't-wait-to-read".

The Latte Rebellion by Sarah Jamila Stevenson

Release date: January 1st, 2011

Summary: (taken from Goodreads)

"Our philosophy is simple: Promote a latte-colored world!" — from the Latte Rebellion Manifesto

When high school senior Asha Jamison gets called a "towel head" at a pool party, the racist insult gives Asha and her best friend Carey a great money-making idea for a post-graduation trip. They'll sell T-shirts promoting the Latte Rebellion, a club that raises awareness of mixed-race students.

Seemingly overnight, their "cause" goes viral and the T-shirts become a nationwide fad. As new chapters spring up from coast to coast, Asha realizes that her simple marketing plan has taken on a life of its own-and it's starting to ruin hers. Asha's once-stellar grades begin to slip, threatening her Ivy League dreams, and her friendship with Carey is hanging by a thread. And when the peaceful underground movement turns militant, Asha's school launches a disciplinary hearing.Facing expulsion, Asha must decide how much she's willing to risk for something she truly believes in.

I love finding those occasional reads that really relate to me. I love the message and idea this book comes across. I really can't wait to get my hands on this one! :)

Teaser Tuesday (18)

2010-11-30T12:07:00.000-05:00

Teaser:

"How can he act this way, how can he talk normally to me? I look at him curiously, like a science experiment, at his blue eyes-slate blue, it turns out- and his strangely shaped nose, and I feel as if I'm floating above him, as if I'm a hospital patient flatlining."

-pg. 133 The Mockingbirds by Daisy Whitney

Daily Dose Monday (24)

2010-11-29T18:29:00.000-05:00

Daily Dose Monday is hosted by Holly over at Good Golly Miss Holly and features inspiring/magical images that you would like to share with your readers :)

In My Mailbox (32)

2010-11-28T11:58:00.000-05:00

In My Mailbox is a meme originally hosted by Kristi over at The Story Siren (click for more information) that shares all the new books you've bought, borrowed, received, or traded for the week.

So it was basically Christmas at my school library with a ton of new books coming in! I don't even know where to begin :)

For review:

Confessions of the Sullivan Sisters by Natalie Standiford

Summary:

The Sullivan sisters have a big problem. On Christmas Day their rich and imperious grandmother gathers the family and announces that she will soon die . . .and has cut the entire family out of her will. Since she is the source of almost all their income, this means they will soon be penniless.

Someone in the family has offended her deeply. If that person comes forward with a confession of her (or his) crime, submitted in writing to her lawyer by New Year's Day, she will reinstate the family in her will. Or at least consider it.
And so the confessions begin....

I absolutely adored How to Say Goodbye in Robot, so I'm excited to read another one by her :)

Half Life of Planets by Emily Franklin, Brendan Halpin
Summary:

Lianna is an aspiring planetary scientist…and also a kissing expert. She's got a lot of experience. Maybe too much. So this summer she decides to conduct an experiment: She's going to give up the kissing part. It shouldn’t be too hard for her—after all, none of her kissing partners so far have been worth the lip time. That is, until Hank comes along.

Hank has never been kissed. He’s smart and funny—sometimes without intending to be—and a little socially challenged. Hank’s got Asperger’s syndrome. This means he knows nearly every track that Kirsty Maccoll has ever appeared on, but not when to shut up about it. Despite his loquatiousness, he also doesn’t know when to say the things he should. Things like, I don’t have a father. I want to hold your hand, I want to kiss you.

It would appear that Hank and Liana are in for an interesting summer—if the planets align.

I love the sound of this one! And lucky for me it's been on my wish list for awhile.

Bright Young Things by Anna Godbersen
Summary:

The year is 1929. New York is ruled by the Bright Young Things: flappers and socialites seeking thrills and chasing dreams in the anything-goes era of the Roaring Twenties. Letty Larkspur and Cordelia Grey escaped their small Midwestern town for New York's glittering metropolis. All Letty wants is to see her name in lights, but she quickly discovers Manhattan is filled with pretty girls who will do anything to be a star… Cordelia is searching for the father she's never known, a man as infamous for his wild parties as he is for his shadowy schemes. Overnight, she enters a world more thrilling and glamorous than she ever could have imagined—and more dangerous. It's a life anyone would kill for . . . and someone will. The only person Cordelia can trust is Astrid Donal, a flapper who seems to have it all: money, looks, and the love of Cordelia's brother, Charlie. But Astrid's perfect veneer hides a score of family secrets.

Ahh I've been dying to read this one since I first heard of it. I love The Luxe series, and this sounds possibly even better.

The Carrie Diaries by Candance Bushnell
Summary:

Before Carrie Bradshaw hit the big time in the City, she was a regular girl growing up in the suburbs of Connecticut. How did she turn into one of the most-read social observers of our generation?

The Carrie Diaries opens up in Carrie's senior year of high school. She and her best friends -- Walt, Lali, Maggie, and the Mouse -- are inseparable, amid the sea of Jens, Jocks and Jets. And then Sebastian Kydd comes into the picture. Sebastian is a bad boy-older, intriguing, and unpredictable. Carrie falls into the relationship that she was always supposed to have in high school-until a friend's betrayal makes her question everything. With her high school days coming to a close, Carrie will realize it's finally time to go after everything she ever wanted.
It's the Carrie Diaries. Enough said ;)

Extraordinary by Nancy Werlin
Summary:

Phoebe finds herself drawn to Mallory, the strange and secretive new kid in school, and the two girls become as close as sisters . . . until Mallory's magnetic older brother, Ryland, shows up during their junior year. Ryland has an immediate, exciting hold on Phoebe, but a dangerous hold, for she begins to question her feelings about her best friend and, worse, about herself. Soon she'll discover the shocking truth about Ryland and Mallory: that these two are visitors from the faerie realm who have come to collect on an age-old debt. Generations ago, the faerie queen promised Pheobe's ancestor five extraordinary sons in exchange for the sacrifice of one ordinary female heir. But in hundreds of years there hasn't been a single ordinary girl in the family, and now the faeries are dying. Could Phoebe be the first ordinary one? Could she save the faeries, or is she special enough to save herself?

Hush by Eishes Chayil
Summary:

Inside the closed community of Borough Park, where most Chassidim live, the rules of life are very clear, determined by an ancient script written thousands of years before down to the last detail—and abuse has never been a part of it. But when thirteen-year-old Gittel learns of the abuse her best friend has suffered at the hands of her own family member, the adults in her community try to persuade Gittel, and themselves, that nothing happened. Forced to remain silent, Gittel begins to question everything she was raised to believe.
A richly detailed and nuanced book, one of both humor and depth, understanding and horror, this story explains a complex world that remains an echo of its past, and illuminates the conflict between yesterday's traditions and today's reality.

Restoring Harmony by Joelle Anthony
Summary:

The year is 2041, and sixteen-year-old Molly McClure has lived a relatively quiet life on an isolated farming island in Canada, but when her family fears the worst may have happened to her grandparents in the US, Molly must brave the dangerous, chaotic world left after global economic collapse—one of massive oil shortages, rampant crime, and abandoned cities.

Molly is relieved to find her grandparents alive in their Portland suburb, but they're financially ruined and practically starving. What should've been a quick trip turns into a full-fledged rescue mission. And when Molly witnesses something the local crime bosses wishes she hadn't, Molly's only way home may be to beat them at their own game. Luckily, there's a handsome stranger who's willing to help.

Mostly Good Girls by Leila Sales
Summary:

The higher you aim, the farther you fall….

It’s Violet’s junior year at the Westfield School. She thought she’d be focusing on getting straight As, editing the lit mag, and figuring out how to talk to boys without choking on her own saliva. Instead, she’s just trying to hold it together in the face of cutthroat academics, her crush’s new girlfriend, and the sense that things are going irreversibly wrong with her best friend, Katie.

When Katie starts making choices that Violet can’t even begin to fathom, Violet has no idea how to set things right between them. Westfield girls are trained for success—but how can Violet keep her junior year from being one huge, epic failure?

Virgin Territory by James Lecesne
Summary:

Virgin Territory explores the power of faith and our need to believe in miracles. Sixteen-year-old Dylan Flack is uprooted from his cozy life in New York City by the death of his mother of cancer the night before 9/ll. He finds himself transplanted to Jupiter, Florida, and in the chaos of the move discovers that his father has lost their treasured collection of family photos. Dylan feels that he has begun to lose the memory of his mother's face, and without access to those pictures of their past together, each day stretches darkly into a future without hope. Enter: the Virgin Club, a nomadic group of trailer kids whose mostly single parents drag them all over the country in search of sightings of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Although not looking for membership in any club, Dylan falls in love with their leader, Angela, who believes that change occurs in direct proportion to desire and the willingness to take risks. In a series of misadventures and brushes with the law in what Dylan comes to think of as "virgin territory," she teaches Dylan to risk a future without his favorite parent. Miraculously his newfound courage leads to a long overdue confession from his father that brings them closer together and catapults Dylan into a future that holds more promise.

The Extraordinary Secrets of April, May & June by Robin Bernway
Summary:

Three sisters share a magical, unshakable bond in this witty high-concept novel from the critically acclaimed author of Audrey, Wait! Around the time of their parents’ divorce, sisters April, May, and June recover special powers from childhood—powers that come in handy navigating the hell that is high school. Powers that help them cope with the hardest year of their lives. But could they have a greater purpose?

April, the oldest and a bit of a worrier, can see the future. Middle-child May can literally disappear. And baby June reads minds—everyone’s but her own. When April gets a vision of disaster, the girls come together to save the day and reconcile their strained family. They realize that no matter what happens, powers or no powers, they’ll always have each other.

Because there’s one thing stronger than magic: sisterhood.

Freefall by Mindi Scott
Summary:

How do you come back from the point of no return?

Seth McCoy was the last person to see his best friend, Isaac, alive, and the first to find him dead. It was just another night, just another party, just another time when Isaac drank too much and passed out on the lawn. Only this time, Isaac didn't wake up.

Convinced that his own actions led to his friend's death, Seth is torn between turning his life around . . . or losing himself completely.
Then he meets Rosetta: so beautiful and so different from everything and everyone he's ever known. But Rosetta has secrets of her own, and Seth soon realizes he isn't the only one who needs saving . . .

The Mockingbirds by Daisy Whitney
Summary:

Some schools have honor codes.
Others have handbooks.
Themis Academy has the Mockingbirds
Themis Academy is a quiet boarding school with an exceptional student body that the administration trusts to always behave the honorable way--the Themis Way. So when Alex is date raped during her junior year, she has two options: stay silent and hope someone helps her, or enlist the Mockingbirds--a secret society of students dedicated to righting the wrongs of their fellow peers.

In this honest, page-turning account of a teen girl's struggle to stand up for herself, debut author Daisy Whitney reminds readers that if you love something or someone--especially yourself--you fight for it.

I'm in the middle of this one now and it's super good so far :)

What's in your mailbox?

Dash & Lilly's Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn, David Levithan

2010-11-27T14:55:00.000-05:00

Book review #61
Dash & Lilly's Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn, David Levithan
Rating: Five stars
Summary:
“I’ve left some clues for you.
If you want them, turn the page.
If you don’t, put the book back on the shelf, please.”

So begins the latest whirlwind romance from the New York Times bestselling authors of Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist. Lily has left a red notebook full of challenges on a favorite bookstore shelf, waiting for just the right guy to come along and accept its dares. But is Dash that right guy? Or are Dash and Lily only destined to trade dares, dreams, and desires in the notebook they pass back and forth at locations across New York? Could their in-person selves possibly connect as well as their notebook versions? Or will they be a comic mismatch of disastrous proportions?

I can honestly say I loved everything and anything about Dash & Lilly's Book of Dares. Imagine a cozy holiday winter setting in New York complete with two unique characters who love to read that form a romance through a notebook and a set of dares. Alternating between Dash and Lilly's point of view readers are in for a real treat.

Dash and Lilly were simply wonderful characters to read about. Dash was described as "snarly" and smart. Lilly was strong-willed and lovable (and crazy!), it's actually hard to describe her she has a personality that's not common in YA. Actually Dash and Lilly were kind of weird, but that's what I loved the most about them. The fact that they loved to read and spent their free time at the bookstore, was definitely a high point. I love reading about main characters like me-a total and complete bookie. The smaller characters helped complete the book, each one helping transport and share clues about the notebook to Dash and Lilly. They all added to the book, making it that much better.

The concept and the setting of the book really made this one a winner. The time period of a couple of days before Christmas to New Years put readers in the winter/holiday spirit. Not to mention it was absolutely hilarious, there were so many laugh out loud/roll on the floor laughing moments (to me personally hehe). It was also so fun to see what crazy dares each character dared the other- you got to see cool places in New York. Dash and Lilly cover everything from sitting on Santa's lap, making muppets, to going to night club. The notebook not only contained dares, but a question or journal entry along with each dare, that's where the romance began. Dash and Lilly formed a connection, a sense of longing to the each other-or the persons the notebook held?

Dash & Lilly's Book of Dares makes me happy, it's one of those books that can make you smile just thinking about it. There so much I have to say about this book, that it's quite difficult to review. The bottom line is if you are looking for a funny holiday romance book topped with a unique plot then most definitely pick this one up. I could even see myself rereading this one :)

Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-25T22:11:00.000-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving! I don't even know where to begin on what I'm thankful for. I had a long difficult year, but it was made ten times better the moment I created this blog. I'm eternally grateful for all my amazing readers and blogging buddies :) I haven't been blogging as much lately-I really really appreciate those of you who still stop by, it definitely makes my day. I hope everyone has a wonderful delicious Thanksgiving! :)

Waiting on Wednesday (26)

2010-11-24T13:04:00.000-05:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly meme, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we "can't-wait-to-read".

The Running Dream by Wendelin Van Draanen

Release date: January 11th, 2011

Summary: (taken from Goodreads)

Jessica thinks her life is over when she loses a leg in a car accident. She's not comforted by the news that she'll be able to walk with the help of a prosthetic leg. Who cares about walking when you live to run?As she struggles to cope with crutches and a first cyborg-like prosthetic, Jessica feels oddly both in the spotlight and invisible. People who don't know what to say, act like she's not there. Which she could handle better if she weren't now keenly aware that she'd done the same thing herself to a girl with CP named Rosa. A girl who is going to tutor her through all the math she's missed. A girl who sees right into the heart of her.With the support of family, friends, a coach, and her track teammates, Jessica may actually be able to run again. But that's not enough for her now. She doesn't just want to cross finish lines herself—she wants to take Rosa with her.

I absolutely love reading books with main characters that have lives so different than mine. This sounds like an interesting and inspirational story :)

Daily Dose Monday (23)

2010-11-22T17:41:00.000-05:00

Daily Dose Monday is hosted by Holly over at Good Golly Miss Holly and features inspiring/magical images that you would like to share with your readers :)

Leaving Paradise by Simone Elkeles

2010-11-20T17:55:00.000-05:00

Book review #60

Leaving Paradise by Simone Elkeles

Rating: Five stars

Summary:

Nothing has been the same since Caleb Becker left a party drunk, got behind the wheel, and hit Maggie Armstrong. Even after months of painful physical therapy, Maggie walks with a limp. Her social life is nil and a scholarship to study abroad—her chance to escape everyone and their pitying stares—has been canceled.

After a year in juvenile jail, Caleb’s free . . . if freedom means endless nagging from a transition coach and the prying eyes of the entire town. Coming home should feel good, but his family and ex-girlfriend seem like strangers.

Caleb and Maggie are outsiders, pigeon-holed as "criminal" and "freak." Then the truth emerges about what really happened the night of the accident and, once again, everything changes. It’s a bleak and tortuous journey for Caleb and Maggie, yet they end up finding comfort and strength from a surprising source: each other.

Like most people, I didn't know too much about Leaving Paradise before picking it up from the library. From the first few pages, I was hooked-the book didn't leave my hands unless it was absolutely necessary. With school and homework becoming a priority in my life, I don't have much time to blog, but no way I was going to not share the love and amazingness of Leaving Paradise. Finishing this book moments ago, raw, emotional, and honestly breathtaking are the only words that come into mind.

The first half of the book was good, but didn't compare to the qualities and surprises the second half had in store. Leaving Paradise follows both Maggie and Caleb's point of view, starting with Caleb finally getting released from the juvenile detention center he's had to call home for the past year. Caleb is a hot, popular, average guy who had a little too much to drink one night, accidentally hitting Maggie Armstrong with his car. Maggie has the dreams of becoming a tennis star, is outgoing, and pretty popular, but ever since the accident she hasn't been the same. It took loads of physical therapy to get her leg back into shape, but she still has a limp. The only thing she looks forward to is going to Spain to leave Paradise (her town) and everything behind her. What she doesn't count on is Caleb being back in Paradise changing everything yet once again. Maggie and Caleb find themselves face to face, involuntary spending more time together; together they learn things aren't always what they seem.

Leaving Paradise is a love story, but not the typical love story most are used to. In fact there isn't anything ordinary about Leaving Paradise. Caleb and Maggie seem to have a normal relationship, but it's much more complicated and heartwarming then it looks from afar. A year after the accident, both characters have changed and grown; they find that each other are the only people that will ever understand. It's safe to say Simone Elkeles is one of the best writers out there. The connection she created by Caleb and Maggie flow so easily throughout the book.There are countless heartbreaking, emotional, honest moments making the reader almost frustrated.

While Caleb and Maggie were wonderful characters, Mrs. Reynolds-the lady Caleb and Maggie both end up working with, brings sunshine to the novel. She helps both of them accept themselves for who they are. Anyone with a person like Mrs.Reynolds in their lives are very lucky.

Leaving Paradise let me escape from my own hectic life for a little bit, as I was completely absorbed in what was happening at all times. The ending wasn't my favorite, but lucky me the sequel is already out! I can't wait to see what's going to happen with Caleb and Maggie. Leaving Paradise is one of the best books I've read in awhile, if not this year. Pick up a copy immediately, you won't regret it :)

HELP!

2010-11-06T21:34:00.000-04:00

Hi :)
Unfortunately it's been way to long. I'm having a major dilemma and I need suggestions. How do you fellow bloggers out there balance blogging with school and work? AP classes and tons of homework takes up most of my day. Thankfully I've blocked up just a little bit of time to read some good books, but I have found it hard to squeeze in blogging as well. I'm hoping some trick will fix this hehe ;D Any comments or opinions would be VERY appreciated. Thank you! I hope to post soon :))

Daily Dose Monday (22)

2010-10-18T22:38:00.000-04:00

Daily Dose Monday is hosted by Holly over at Good Golly Miss Holly and features inspiring/magical images that you would like to share with your readers :)

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

2010-10-10T11:20:00.000-04:00

Book review #59

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Rating: Five stars

Summary: (taken from Goodreads)

Katniss Everdeen, girl on fire, has survived, even though her home has been destroyed. Gale has escaped. Katniss's family is safe. Peeta has been captured by the Capitol. District 13 really does exist. There are rebels. There are new leaders. A revolution is unfolding.

It is by design that Katniss was rescued from the arena in the cruel and haunting Quarter Quell, and it is by design that she has long been part of the revolution without knowing it. District 13 has come out of the shadows and is plotting to overthrow the Capitol. Everyone, it seems, has had a hand in the carefully laid plans -- except Katniss.

The success of the rebellion hinges on Katniss's willingness to be a pawn, to accept responsibility for countless lives, and to change the course of the future of Panem. To do this, she must put aside her feelings of anger and distrust. She must become the rebels' Mockingjay -- no matter what the personal cost.

*I know this review is super late and you've read the same thing about a million times, so I'll try to make it short :)*

On the evening of August 24th, I rushed to Walmart to secure my copy of Mockingjay as soon as I could. I set aside the next couple of hours and became absorbed in the many adventures of Katniss and the gang.From then on I was put on a rocky roller coaster full of tears, frustrations, and finally relief. Mockingjay is most definitely a one sitting read so pick a comfortable spot and get ready to expect an action packed journey filled with love, loss, and conflicts along the way.

Although the action in Mockingjay was different than in the other two books, it was just as intense. Poor Katniss doesn’t get a break with nonstop action and battling. Although there isn’t another hunger games, Katniss is still not safe. The capital wants revenge. Ultimately, you will become forced to choose whether you’re going to join the rebellion or fight with the capital.

You can also expect a lot of previous characters to make an appearance. Collin’s excels at further developing the characters allowing you to make empathize and connect with them. Over the course of the three books, I have had the pleasure of watching the characters grow and develop. I have become so attached to them - they have almost become family. For those of you who are on Team Gale, you are definitely in luck. Readers get a chance to see a lot more of Gale. Devoted Team Peeta fans may need to reconsider whose side they are on. As for Katniss, I can now officially call her one of my all time favorite heroines. Without out a doubt she is one daring, courageous character.

After reading the conclusion of the series, I quickly turned back a couple of chapters and relived the ending once again. Mockingjay will dominate your thoughts hours after turning through the last pages. The last couple of pages definitely have some wet spots where my tear drops landed. Mockingjay was a wonderful end to an amazing series. I can honestly say that The Hunger Games series is one of the best out there. If you haven't read them yet, then do yourself a favor and immediately get a copy of The Hunger Games in your possession.

-Most of this content was written for my school newspaper so I hope I didn't give away too many/any spoilers! :)

Updates, Explanations,and Opinions (please!)

2010-10-08T16:12:00.000-04:00

Hi!
As most of you have noticed, I've been mostly absent in the blogging community. School is taking over most of my free time. But thankfully I have a five day weekend (Fall break) so I'm going to catch up on everything! Hopefully I'll be able to keep up with it. Life without blogging just doesn't feel right. I've still been reading though! My latest favorite was Tell Me a Secret which I absolutely loved! Ok so here comes the part where I really need some help. For my school newspaper I've landing a permanent spot for a book review. The newspaper comes out about every monthish. For the last issue (August-September) I reviewed Mockingjay since it had so much hype. My problem is coming up with a book to review for this month. It can be any book, preferably newly released, that has a lot of hype. It's going to be read by the whole high school, so maybe a book that would be read by a diverse audience. Any ideas are welcome! Thank you so much in advance!

PS. It feels so amazing to post again :)
PSS I love you all! Thanks a million to everyone who hasn't unfollowed!

Winner of the What's Your Status Prize Pack!

2010-10-07T19:54:00.000-04:00

The winner of a paperback copy of Top 8 and What's Your Status? by Katie Finn is:

Bere from Suenos En La Luna

Congrats Bere! I'll be e-mailing you shortly :) Thanks a ton to everyone who entered. I'm so sorry for posting the winner so late! Top 8 and What's Your Status? are both wonderful books so if you didn't win, make sure you get your own copy :)

*Winner were chosen from Random.org.

Fixing Delilah by Sarah Ockler

2010-10-06T16:49:00.000-04:00

Book review #58

Fixing Delilah by Sarah Ockler

Rating: Five stars

Summary:

Things in Delilah Hannaford's life have a tendency to fall apart.

She used to be a good student, but she can't seem to keep it together anymore. Her "boyfriend" isn't much of a boyfriend. And her mother refuses to discuss the fight that divided their family eight years ago. Falling apart, it seems, is a Hannaford tradition.

Over a summer of new friendships, unexpected romance, and moments that test the complex bonds between mothers and daughters, Delilah must face her family's painful past. Can even her most shattered relationships be pieced together again?

I honestly have no idea where to begin. Twenty Boy Summer was one of my all time favorite books, so I was nervous that Fixing Delilah wouldn't be as good. Boy was I wrong. Fixing Delilah left me speechless, it's definitely going onto my favorite books list. Better yet I can confirm that Sarah Ockler is without a doubt an amazing author. She has a way to put all my favorite things into one book. Fixing Delilah had everything from romance, mystery, to family relationships.Ockler really knows how to balance everything creating the perfect blend.

Delilah has had a very rough year and to top it all off she's being forced to spend the summer in her old hometown to help plan for her grandmother's funeral. After both her grandparents died and with her aunt dead, she was only one of the three Hannafords left. Right after her grandfather died, her mother packed up and moved to Red Falls. Delilah never knew why she had to leave her hometown behind. Eight years later she's back and she's determined to uncover the truth.

The characters were perfect. If wanted to pick characters to read about it I would chose this cast. There's Emily who is the nice outgoing good friend that Delilah's never had. Then there's the Hannaford sisters. Family is really important to me. I know all about crazy family secrets and sister rivalries. It was so refreshing to see family play such an important part in the book. I loved see how the siblings interacted with each other. Of course Patrick was my absolute favorite. Delilah and Patrick grew up together and now eight years later they realized they have feelings for each other. Childhood best friends turned lovers are just my type of romance :) It was so pure and real. Lastly there was Delilah herself. She has a had a tough time lately, transforming from a good girl into who knows what. Her friendships are falling apart, her love life isn't any better, and to top it all off the family mystery is driving her crazy. But the moment she steps back into Red Falls everything changes...

Sarah Ockler sure does know how to write a love scene! The chemistry and interactions between the two can be compared to scenes written by Simone Elkeles and Jennifer Echols. It made those who haven't experienced those feelings longing to fall in love. Not only does she know how to write a love scene, but her writing over all is impeccable. There were so many memorable quotes and verses. The lines flew effortless almost off the page. I was so engrossed in what was going on, I had forgotten everything I had to do that day. Fixing Delilah became the number one thing on my mind.

I almost forgot about the setting of the book. Red Falls is even better than a summery beach town. It's small and a place I would love to spend my summer at. The descriptions were so vivid, I felt like I knew my way around town.

For those of you exciting for Fixing Delilah to be released, get even more excited! It definitely won't disappoint. Fans of Twenty Boy Summer are guaranteed to fall in love. Realism, coming of age, romance, and the added family tension makes this one unforgettable read. I'm anxiously awaiting for the release date as well, so I can get a copy of my own.

In My Mailbox (31)

2010-09-19T17:47:00.000-04:00

In My Mailbox is a meme originally hosted by Kristi over at The Story Siren (click for more information) that shares all the new books you've bought, borrowed, received, or traded for the week.

Whoa I haven't done one of these in FOREVER! I've got quite a few books so I'll be playing catch up :) And I promise to post this week with updates and everything.

Received/for review:

Fixing Delilah by Sarah Ockler

Summary: (taken from Goodreads)

Things in Delilah Hannaford's life have a tendency to fall apart.

She used to be a good student, but she can't seem to keep it together anymore. Her "boyfriend" isn't much of a boyfriend. And her mother refuses to discuss the fight that divided their family eight years ago. Falling apart, it seems, is a Hannaford tradition.

Over a summer of new friendships, unexpected romance, and moments that test the complex bonds between mothers and daughters, Delilah must face her family's painful past. Can even her most shattered relationships be pieced together again?

I was SO excited to get this one! I love love Sarah Ockler. I already started this one and it's super good so far :)

Kiss Me Deadly: 13 Tales of Paranormal Love

Summary: (taken from Goodreads)

If you can possibly thirst for more mysterious metaphysical accounts of love, Trisha Telep has organized some of the greatest and most thrilling tales of paranormal paramours since The Eternal Kiss. She presents the acclaimed literary talent of thirteen unique authors, creating a collection of stories that will undoubtedly capture the imagination of every soul who dares to read them. Werewolves, ghosts, zombies, vampires, and fallen angels drive the plot of these riveting romances.Kiss Me Deadly includes the exceptional writings of several authors, including: - Sarah Rees Brennan (faeries) - Becca Fitzpatrick (angels) - Caitlin Kittredge (witches) - Karen Mahoney (vampires: sequel to story from The Eternal Kiss) - Daniel Marks (ghost kids) - Justine Musk (sorcerers) - Diana Peterfreund (unicorns) - Michelle Rowen (demons) - Carrie Ryan (zombies) - Maggie Stiefvater (werewolves) - Rachel Vincent (banshees) - Daniel Waters (zombies) - Michelle Zink (gothic ghosts)

All these authors are awesome so I'm sure this is a wonderful book! A big thanks goes to Running Press publishers for sending this one in.

The Jumbee by Pamela Keys
Summary: (taken from Goodreads)

Seventeen-year-old Esti Legard spent her childhood in the Shakespearean world of her famous father, and when he died, she knew she could never give up acting. After she and her mother move to a Caribbean island for her senior year, she realizes that nothing at her new school's theater department is quite as it seems. Stunned by the death of a fellow student on her first da ...more Seventeen-year-old Esti Legard spent her childhood in the Shakespearean world of her famous father, and when he died, she knew she could never give up acting. After she and her mother move to a Caribbean island for her senior year, she realizes that nothing at her new school's theater department is quite as it seems. Stunned by the death of a fellow student on her first day of class, Esti is soon surrounded by legends of the wicked jumbees that haunt the West Indies. She finds herself snubbed by the school’s star actress and relegated to a minor part in Romeo and Juliet.

Only her intriguing new friend, the elusive Alan, shares her passion for Shakespeare. Hiding in the dark recesses of the theater, he leads Esti deep into her own soul to explore the limits of her talent. When Esti's childhood best friend moves to the island and back into her life, however, Alan disappears. Rocked by growing accusations of befriending a jumbee, Esti realizes she must find out who – or what – Alan really is. She is soon forced to defy everyone and everything she’s ever believed in, as she plunges into the mysteries of Shakespeare and the legends of the West Indians, discovering shocking truths about her own past that will forever shape her future.

This sounds simply wonderful. And I'm a big fan of the cover. Thanks to Dial Books for sending this one. :)

The Healer's Apprentice by Melanie Dickson
Summary: (taken from Goodreads)

Two Hearts. One Hope.Rose has been appointed as a healer's apprentice at Hagenheim Castle, a rare opportunity for a woodcutter's daughter like her. While she often feels uneasy at the sight of blood, Rose is determined to prove herself capable. Failure will mean returning home to marry the aging bachelor her mother has chosen for her---a bloated, disgusting merchant who makes Rose feel ill.When Lord Hamlin, the future duke, is injured, it is Rose who must tend to him. As she works to heal his wound, she begins to understand emotions she's never felt before and wonders if he feels the same. But falling in love is forbidden, as Lord Hamlin is betrothed to a mysterious young woman in hiding. As Rose's life spins toward confusion, she must take the first steps on a journey to discover her own destiny.

I've always wanted to read more books like these. I can't wait to give this one a go. A huge thanks goes to Melanie herself for mailing this one in! :D

Library/for review:

So my school library is literally heaven! It's ten times better than the public libraries. It has all the new release which means I don't have to buy as many books anymore. I was tempted to check out a million books, but I controlled myself ;D

Tell Me a Secret by Holly Capala
Summary: (taken from Goodreads)

Tell me a secret, and I'll tell you one…

In the five years since her bad-girl sister Xanda’s death, Miranda Mathison has wondered about the secret her sister took to the grave, and what really happened the night she died. Now, just as Miranda is on the cusp of her dreams—a best friend to unlock her sister’s world, a ticket to art school, and a boyfriend to fly her away from it all—Miranda has a secret all her own.

Then two lines on a pregnancy test confirm her worst fears. Stripped of her former life, Miranda must make a choice with tremendous consequences and finally face her sister’s demons and her own.

I already started this one I'm already attached! I can't wait to finish it.

Take Me There by Carolee Dean
Summary: (taken from Goodreads)

Sometimes sexy, sometimes sad, and always intense, Take Me There is a dark and surprising novel about a boy on the run who's headed nowhere fast.

Dylan has a bad-boy past and a criminal record. He knows that rich, beautiful Jess is way too good for him—but she has always been the one person who sees through his tough exterior and straight to his heart, and he has been hopelessly in love with her from the first time they met. He would change his life for a chance with her.

But trouble follows Dylan wherever he goes, and a deadly mistake soon forces him to hit the road and leave his dreams behind. He’s on the run and in search of answers—answers to questions he wishes he’d never asked.

I've been wanting to read this one since forever! I'm so happy I got my hands on a copy.

The View From the Top by Hillary Frank
Summary: (taken from Goodreads)

Eighteen-year-old Anabelle’s last few months in her coastal hometown are bittersweet. Instead of the quiet precollege summer she expects, Anabelle makes some surprising discoveries about herself as she navigates romantic entanglements and changing friendships. Through shifting points of view in seven interconnected stories, we glimpse the limits of how well her friends really know Anabelle . . . and how little she grasps about the way they see her.

With wry observations and quirky humor, critically acclaimed novelist Hillary Frank gives voice and depth to six unique characters whose stories intertwine to form a complete picture of one shared summer.

This DEFINITELY sounds like my type of book. It almost sounds like a Sarah Dessen novel.

What's in your mailbox?

Daily Dose Monday (21)

2010-09-06T21:40:00.000-04:00

Daily Dose Monday is hosted by Holly over at Good Golly Miss Holly and features inspiring/magical images that you would like to share with your readers :)

What's Your Status? Prize Pack Giveaway!

2010-09-03T09:19:00.001-04:00

Enter to win a paperback copy of Top 8 and What's Your Status? by Katie Finn!

Summary:

Madison MacDonald is seriously freaking out
Madison MacDonald
16
Putnam, CT

Status: Single?

About Me:
Everything in my life was working out. I had my three best friends, a brand-new boyfriend, and the lead in the school play. Aside from that history paper I hadn't started, things felt perfect.
Then I returned from spring break to find my Friendverse profile hacked. Someone clearly out to ruin me had spilled the most damaging secrets - AND posted the worst photos of me ever taken - online.
Now my boyfriend and I are broken up, half the school hates me, and I'm in deep trouble.
Goals:
Get my boyfriend back, figure out who could have done this, and clear my name!
Also, pass history.

Summary:
Sixteen-year-old Madison still loves logging on to Friendverse to see what her BFFs and her cute new boyfriend Nate are up to. But the latest social networking craze is Status Q, which is all about rapid-fire status updates. When one of Mad’s friends has to pull off a high-pressure heist, the gang relies on Status Q to send code messages to each other…all in the middle of a school dance! Will up-to-the-minute social networking save the day…or lead to good old-fashioned disaster?

About the author:

Katie Finn is the author of Top 8 and What’s Your St@tus?. She lives and writes in Los Angeles. Friend her on Facebook, follow her on Twitter @katiefinnwrites and visit her online at www.katiefinn.com.

You can visit HERE and HERE for more information.

Contest details:

-One winner will receive a paperback copy of Top 8 and What's Your Status?

- You must live in the U.S.

-You have until September 17th to enter.

-All you have to do is fill out the form (:

Click here to enter!

Good luck to everyone! And thanks again to Point for providing me with the giveaway copies!

Guess who's on Facebook now?

2010-08-28T19:12:00.000-04:00

Hey all! :)
So I finally made a facebook. I would love to be facebook friends with you! Here's my link- add me (if you want to of course). Or leave me your link in the comments :)

Oh and you know how I said I was back a couple of days ago? Well I've still been really busy, but I'm now officially back. I have reviews for Mockingjay and Delirium all ready to go :D

Waiting on Wednesday (25)

2010-08-25T19:29:00.000-04:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly meme, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we "can't-wait-to-read".

Exposed by Kimberley Marcus

Release date: February 22nd 2011

Summary: (taken from Goodreads)

In the dim light of the darkroom, I'm alone, but not for long.
As white turns to gray, Kate is with me.
The background of the dance studio blurred, so the focus is all on her
legs extended in a perfect soaring split.
The straight line to my squiggle,
my forever-best friend.

Sixteen-year-old Liz Grayson is photogirl—sharp, focused and ready to take the world by storm with her camera. But Liz's entire life is called into question when her brother is accused of a crime—and the accuser is Liz's own best friend. As the aftershocks from that accusation rip through Liz's world, everything she thought she knew about photography, family, friendship and herself, shifts out of focus. And for the first time in her life, Liz finds herself unable to trust her own point of view. Told in stunning, searingly raw free verse, Exposed is Kimberly Marcus's gut-wrenching, riveting debut and will appeal to fans of Ellen Hopkins, Laurie Halse Anderson and Virginia Euwer Wolff.

Three things: I'm definitely intrigued by the summary! It's written in verse, which I've been a big fan of lately. And I'm definitely a fan of Laurie Halse Anderson. I have a feeling I'm really going to enjoy this one :D

In My Mailbox (30)

2010-08-22T20:08:00.000-04:00

In My Mailbox is a meme originally hosted by Kristi over at The Story Siren (click for more information) that shares all the new books you've bought, borrowed, received, or traded for the week.

Since I've been so busy lately I've barely gotten any new books, but I have a lot that are supposed to come in this week! :)

Received/for review:

Delirium by Lauren Oliver

Summary: (taken from Goodreads)

Before scientists found the cure, people thought love was a good thing. They didn’t understand that once love -the deliria- blooms in your blood, there is no escaping its hold. Things are different now. Scientists are able to eradicate love, and the governments demands that all citizens receive the cure upon turning eighteen. Lena Holway has always looked forward to the day when she’ll be cured. A life without love is a life without pain: safe, measured, predictable, and happy.

But with ninety-five days left until her treatment, Lena does the unthinkable: She falls in love.

Oh.my.goodness. I'm already finished with this book and it is definitely one of a kind. Look out for the review coming soon.

Library/for review:

Graceling by Kristin Cashore

Summary:(taken from Goodreads)

Katsa has been able to kill a man with her bare hands since she was eight — she’s a Graceling, one of the rare people in her land born with an extreme, and in her case horrifying, skill. As niece of the king, she should be able to live a life of privilege, but Graced as she is with killing, she is forced to work as the king’s thug. When she first meets Prince Po, Graced with combat skills, Katsa has no hint of how her life is about to change.

She never expects to become Po’s friend. She never expects to learn a new truth about her own Grace — or about a terrible secret that lies hidden far away... a secret that could destroy all seven kingdoms with words alone.

This isn't really my cup of tea, but I got many high recommendation so I decided to try it :)

What's in your mailbox?

I'm back!

2010-08-20T23:44:00.000-04:00

Hey!

It's been way too long. I have definitely missed the blogging community. A lot has been going on lately. This week I started a brand new school which has taken up a lot of my time. I've never had so much work to do in my life. This month is also a special month called Ramadan. Ramadan is a month where you fast from food and drink from sunrise to sunset. You don't only fast from food, but also from bad words, rudeness, and basically anything inappropriate. So with a new school and Ramadan happening I haven't really been blogging. But I'm definitely back! I have plenty of book reviews and even a giveaway scheduled for next week :)

On a side note: Who's excited for Tuesday??! I absolutely can't wait to read Mockingjay. I joined the newspaper at school and I'm really excited to be doing a feature/book review on Mockingjay. Does anyone have any title ideas for the article?

Daily Dose Monday (20)

2010-08-09T10:00:00.000-04:00

Daily Dose Monday is hosted by Holly over at Good Golly Miss Holly and features inspiring/magical images that you would like to share with your readers :)

In My Mailbox (29)

2010-08-08T12:40:00.001-04:00

In My Mailbox is a meme originally hosted by Kristi over at The Story Siren (click for more information) that shares all the new books you've bought, borrowed, received, or traded for the week.

I didn't have the best week, but it's OK since now I have time to catch up on all my other reads! :)

Received/for review:

Top 8 by Katie Finn

Summary: (taken from Goodreads)

Madison MacDonald

Putnam, CT

Status: Single?

About Me:

Everything in my life was working out. I had my three best friends, a brand-new boyfriend, and the lead in the school play. Aside from that history paper I hadn't started, things felt perfect.

Then I returned from spring break to find my Friendverse profile hacked. Someone clearly out to ruin me had spilled the most damaging secrets - AND posted the worst photos of me ever taken - online.

Now my boyfriend and I are broken up, half the school hates me, and I'm in deep trouble.

Goals:

Get my boyfriend back, figure out who could have done this, and clear my name!

Also, pass history.

This sounds like a really cool read! :)

What's Your Status? by Katie Finn

Summary: (taken from Goodreads)

Madison MacDonald thinks things are finally working out!

Followers: 300

Status Updates:

mad_mac   Nate and I have been together for two months, and it’s wonderful! Life is good!

mad_mac Well, except for the fact that I still might be failing history.

mad_mac         And I no longer have a BFF.

mad_mac         But aside from those things!

mad_mac         Okay. So, um, apparently I’ve just been put in charge of the school’s priceless heirloom.

mad_mac         And the assistant headmaster has a vendetta against me.

mad_mac         And it seems I’m being blackmailed.

mad_mac         Gathering together a crew. I’m going to try and pull off a heist. Without getting caught. Or expelled. Or arrested.

mad_mac         Also, I think I may have just accidentally wrecked my relationship. . . .

Madison MacDonald is trying not to panic.

I think I'm going to love the format of this one. This is the sequel for Top 8, but I'm pretty sure you can read it without reading Top 8 first. Thanks so much to Chelsey Hall and Big Honcho Media for sending in these two books. Look out for a giveaway of both coming very soon :)

*I didn't get any books from the library since unfortunately it's closed for repairs for another week or so :( Also you've probably noticed that I haven't had many new posts lately. I've been going through a lot of personal issues I need to fix and I'm going to be transitioning from homeschooling back to public school in the next couple of days so I"ll be taking a mini blogging break. I'll write up an official post soon :)

What's in your mailbox?

Waiting on Wednesday (24)

2010-08-04T13:04:00.000-04:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly meme, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we "can't-wait-to-read".

Stay by Deb Caletti

Release date: April 19th 2011

Summary: (taken from Goodreads)

Clarar's relationship with Christian is intense from the start, and like nothing she's ever experienced before. But what starts as devotion quickly becomes obsession, and it's almost too late before Clara realizes how far gone Christian is--and what he's willing to do to make her stay.Now Clara has left the city-and Christian-behind. No one back home has any idea where she is, but she still struggles to shake off her fear. She knows Christian won't let her go that easily, and that no matter how far she runs, it may not be far enough....

I was so delighted to discover that Deb Caletti was coming out with another book! All of her books are so honest and real, it's hard for them to not be amazing. Just for reading the summary I have a feeling this will definitely be my type of book. Can't wait! :)

Teaser Tuesday (17)

2010-08-03T17:19:00.000-04:00

Teaser Tuesday is hosted by MizB over at Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along. Just do the following:

-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!

Teaser:

"It took me a second to speak because I was still regaining my breath from the combined effects of how horribly tense that situation had been and the stench in there. 'I definitely think you've traumatized that boy for life,' I said. "

-pg. 172, Boy's, Girl & Other Hazardous Materials by Rosalind Wiseman

Wow. This book is definitely unlike other books I've read. It's so honest, it's almost scary. I'm almost finished with it so look our for the review ;D

In My Mailbox (28)

2010-08-01T11:45:00.000-04:00

In My Mailbox is a meme originally hosted by Kristi over at The Story Siren (click for more information) that shares all the new books you've bought, borrowed, received, or traded for the week.

I had an awesome week! I finally caved in and bought all the books I've been dying to read :D

Bought/for review:

Sea by Heidi R. Kling

Summary: (taken from Goodreads)

Haunted by recurring nightmares since her mother’s disappearance over the Indian ocean three years before, fifteen-year old California girl Sienna Jones reluctantly travels with her psychiatrist father’s volunteer team to six-months post-tsunami Indonesia where she meets the scarred and soulful orphaned boy, Deni, who is more like Sea than anyone she has ever met.

She knows they can’t be together, so why can’t she stay away from him? And what about her old best friend-turned-suddenly-hot Spider who may or may not be waiting for her back home? And why won’t her dad tell her the truth about her mother’s plane crash? The farther she gets from home, the closer she comes to finding answers.

And Sea’s real adventure begins.

I haven't read a negative review about this one. It sounds so amazing and the cover is just stunning. I have a feeling I'm going to love this one :)

The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson
Summary: (taken from Goodreads)

Seventeen-year-old Lennie Walker, bookworm and band geek, plays second clarinet and spends her time tucked safely and happily in the shadow of her fiery older sister, Bailey. But when Bailey dies abruptly, Lennie is catapulted to center stage of her own life—and, despite her nonexistent history with boys, suddenly finds herself struggling to balance two. Toby was Bailey’s boyfriend; his grief mirrors Lennie’s own. Joe is the new boy in town, a transplant from Paris whose nearly magical grin is matched only by his musical talent. For Lennie, they’re the sun and the moon; one boy takes her out of her sorrow, the other comforts her in it. But just like their celestial counterparts, they can’t collide without the whole wide world exploding.

This is another book I've heard such good things about it. I have very high hopes for this one.

Wanted (Pretty Little Liars #8) by Sara Shepard
Summary: (taken from Goodreads)

In Rosewood, majestic estates sprawl for acres, and Tiffany toggle bracelets dangle from every girl's wrist. But not all that glitters is gold, and the town harbors secrets darker than anyone could imagine—like the truth about what really happened the night Alison DiLaurentis went missing. . . .

Back in middle school, Ali plucked Emily, Hanna, Aria, and Spencer from obscurity and turned them into the beautiful, popular girls everyone wanted to be. Ali was the best friend they ever had. But she also made them do terrible things and taunted them with their worst secrets. Now, three years later, all their questions about Ali have finally been answered and they can put this awful chapter of their lives behind them. Or so they think.

Not every story has a happy ending, especially when four pretty little liars have done so many wicked things. In the dramatic conclusion of Sara Shepard's bestselling Pretty Little Liars series, Emily, Hanna, Aria, and Spencer could get everything they've ever wanted—unless A has one more horrifying twist in store.

I'm in love with this series so I'm dying to see how it all ties together.

Rules of Attraction by Simone Elkeles
Summary: (taken from Goodreads)
When Carlos Fuentes returns to America after living in Mexico for a year, he doesn’t want any part of the life his older brother, Alex, has laid out for him at a high school in Colorado . Carlos likes living his life on the edge and wants to carve his own path—just like Alex did. Then he meets Kiara Westford. She doesn’t talk much and is completely intimidated by Carlos’ wild ways. As they get to know one another, Carlos assumes Kiara thinks she’s too good for him, and refuses to admit that she might be getting to him. But he soon realizes that being himself is exactly what Kiara needs right now.

I fell in love with Perfect Chemistry so I'm really excited to read this one. I'm not sure it can beat it, but we'll see...

And I finally pre-ordered Mockingjay! I couldn't be more excited to read it :) So...I got all four (five) of these hardback books for fifty bucks. I love cheap books ;D

What's in your mailbox?

Forget You by Jennifer Echols

2010-07-31T22:15:00.000-04:00

Book review #57
Forget You by Jennifer Echols
Rating: Five stars

Summary:(taken from Goodreads)
WHY CAN’T YOU CHOOSE WHAT YOU FORGET . . . AND WHAT YOU REMEMBER? There’s a lot Zoey would like to forget. Like how her father has knocked up his twenty-four- year old girlfriend. Like Zoey’s fear that the whole town will find out about her mom’s nervous breakdown. Like darkly handsome bad boy Doug taunting her at school. Feeling like her life is about to become a complete mess, Zoey fights back the only way she knows how, using her famous attention to detail to make sure she’s the perfect daughter, the perfect student, and the perfect girlfriend to ultra-popular football player Brandon. But then Zoey is in a car crash, and the next day there’s one thing she can’t remember at all—the entire night before. Did she go parking with Brandon, like she planned? And if so, why does it seem like Brandon is avoiding her? And why is Doug—of all people— suddenly acting as if something significant happened between the two of them? Zoey dimly remembers Doug pulling her from the wreck, but he keeps referring to what happened that night as if it was more, and it terrifies Zoey to admit how much is a blank to her. Controlled, meticulous Zoey is quickly losing her grip on the all-important details of her life—a life that seems strangely empty of Brandon, and strangely full of Doug.

I don't even know where to begin. I'm kind of beating myself up for not reading any of Jennifer Echols's books before. After reading Forget You, she has officially made it to my favorite author's list. She just has this way of creating realistic characters combined with intense scenes that it's almost...magical.

Zoey is living a complicated life, but her main goal is to trying to block it all out by being perfect. Her dad is living with his knocked up girlfriend-who is his main priority at the time. Her mother got sent to the mental hospital and then there's Brandon, her guy friend, who she finally went farther with. Things are going OK at the moment, she just made the move on Brandon and things on the swim team or going good. But everything changes the night after the accident. She doesn't remember anything and suddenly mysterious Doug carved a space into her life. She struggles to piece together the details of the night to actually make sense of her life.

There's a lot of things I loved about this book, but I would have to say the writing was my favorite. The writing was scrumptious. After I finished reading the book, I curled back into bed and reread my favorite scenes. Jennifer Echols has a way of making the words flow off the pages making it impossible to stop reading. It wasn't even that much of a mystery, but I had to find out what really happened that night. Oh and did I mention the love scenes? They were hot! Each and every moment Doug and Zoey shared together were pretty unforgettable, sexual tension filled the air no matter where they were.

The characters were the second key to making this such an amazing read. Zoey. Some may hate or love her. I think the reason some people didn't love this book so much is mainly because Zoey can come off as annoying. Her feelings towards Brandon were unexplainable (I don't want to give anything away), but honestly I knew that she really knew what kind of guy Brandon was. It was all to keep her "perfect" image. I could relate to the trouble she was going through, so to me she wasn't an unlikeable character at all. Doug! Oh my goodness. I think it's impossible not to love him. Sexy, sweet, and sensitive, but not perfect with his "criminal" history. It's safe to say I would love to have a Doug in real life. Even the smaller characters were very well developed and memorable.

Overall, Forget You is addictive, sexy, and thoughtful. It's simple, yet so complex. And I almost forget to mention how honest it is. Jennifer Echol's actually goes there and addresses those sometimes embarrassing subjects. If you were wondering if Forget You lives up to the hype, personally I think it certainly does. I would reread this book in a heartbeat, so go ahead and buy yourself a copy :)

Book Blogger Hop (12) + Follow Friday

2010-07-30T12:44:00.001-04:00

Hey! It's Friday and you know what that means-it's time for the book blogger hop! I absolutely love this, I've found so many great blogs over the process. Hop on over to Crazy for Books and join in! Oh and if you're visiting make sure to let me know, so I can return the favor! I'm also joining in on Parajunkee's Follow Friday, so check that out as well :)

To answer this week's question, my favorite new to me author this year would be...well I was introduced to some amazing authors this year so I'm going to choose three. First I would pick Lauren Oliver for her wonderful novel Before I Fall. After reading that I'm confident I'll love anything else she'll write. Morgan Matson who wrote Amy & Roger's Epic Detour would be next to make the list. And lastly I would have to say Kimberley Darling for writing The Body Finder.

Waiting on Wednesday (23)

2010-07-28T15:03:00.000-04:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly meme, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we "can't-wait-to-read".

Blood On My Hands by Todd Strasser

Release date: September 28th 2010

Summary: (taken from Amazon)

I've been waiting for like forever for the summary to come out for this one. I'm definitely intrigued! A girl accused of her murdering her best friend? Sounds interesting for sure. And it's Todd Strasser, he's amazing :) I can't wait to see how it turns out.

Daily Dose Monday (19)

2010-07-26T13:38:00.000-04:00

Daily Dose Monday is hosted by Holly over at Good Golly Miss Holly and features inspiring/magical images that you would like to share with your readers :)

In My Mailbox (27)

2010-07-25T11:54:00.000-04:00

In My Mailbox is a meme originally hosted by Kristi over at The Story Siren (click for more information) that shares all the new books you've bought, borrowed, received, or traded for the week.

I had a pretty decent week. I actually might have to take a little blogging break in the next couple of weeks unfortunately. I'll keep you guys posted :)

Received/for review:

Forget You by Jennifer Echols
Summary: (taken from Goodreads)

WHY CAN’T YOU CHOOSE WHAT YOU FORGET . . . AND WHAT YOU REMEMBER? There’s a lot Zoey would like to forget. Like how her father has knocked up ...more WHY CAN’T YOU CHOOSE WHAT YOU FORGET . . . AND WHAT YOU REMEMBER? There’s a lot Zoey would like to forget. Like how her father has knocked up his twenty-four- year old girlfriend. Like Zoey’s fear that the whole town will find out about her mom’s nervous breakdown. Like darkly handsome bad boy Doug taunting her at school. Feeling like her life is about to become a complete mess, Zoey fights back the only way she knows how, using her famous attention to detail to make sure she’s the perfect daughter, the perfect student, and the perfect girlfriend to ultra-popular football player Brandon. But then Zoey is in a car crash, and the next day there’s one thing she can’t remember at all—the entire night before. Did she go parking with Brandon, like she planned? And if so, why does it seem like Brandon is avoiding her? And why is Doug—of all people— suddenly acting as if something significant happened between the two of them? Zoey dimly remembers Doug pulling her from the wreck, but he keeps referring to what happened that night as if it was more, and it terrifies Zoey to admit how much is a blank to her. Controlled, meticulous Zoey is quickly losing her grip on the all-important details of her life—a life that seems strangely empty of Brandon, and strangely full of Doug.

I received two copies of this book. One was from the We Love YA tours and the other one was sent from the publishers. A huge thanks goes to Jennifer Echols for that (: Anyways I'm almost finished with this one and whoa! I absolutely love it so far.

Passing Strange (Generation Dead #3) by Daniel Waters
Summary: (taken from Goodreads)

Karen DeSonne always passed as a normal (if pale) teenager; with her friends, with her family, and at school. Passing cost her the love of her life. A...more Karen DeSonne always passed as a normal (if pale) teenager; with her friends, with her family, and at school. Passing cost her the love of her life. And now that Karen’s dead, she’s still passing—this time, as alive. Karen DeSonne just happens to be an extremely human-like zombie. Meanwhile, Karen’s dead friends have been fingered in a high-profile murder, causing a new round of antizombie regulations that have forced them into hiding. Karen soon learns that the “murder” that destroyed their non-life was a hoax, staged by Pete Martinsburg and his bioist zealots. Obtaining enough evidence to expose the fraud and prove her friends’ innocence means doing the unthinkable: becoming Pete’s girlfriend. Karen’s only hope is that the enemy never realizes who she really is—because the consequences would be worse than death.

I haven't read the first two books yet, but I'm going to very soon. It sounds like a great series. Thanks goes to Non-Fiction Books.

Won:

Privilege by Kate Brian
Summary: (taken from Goodreads)

Most girls would die for a life of privilege...
Some would even kill for it.

Ariana Osgood ruled exclusive Easton Academy -- until she was arrested for murdering Thomas Pearson. She's spent the past two years at the Brenda T. Trumbull Correctional Facility for Women plotting her escape and is determined to get a second chance at the glamorous life she left behind. And Ariana will do anything to get her way....

I snagged this book for completing the summer reading program at my local library. I literally fell in love with Kate Brian's Private series and I've always wanted to try this one out.

Library/for review:

The Awakening and The Struggle (Vampire Diaries #1 and #2) by L.J. Smith
Summary: (taken from Goodreads)

Elena: the golden girl, the leader, the one who can have any boy she wants.
Stefan: brooding and mysterious, he seems to be the only one who can re
...more Elena: the golden girl, the leader, the one who can have any boy she wants.

Stefan: brooding and mysterious, he seems to be the only one who can resist
Elena, even as he struggles to protect her from the horrors that haunt his past.

Damon: sexy, dangerous, and driven by an urge for revenge against Stefan, the brother who betrayed him. Determined to have Elena, he'd kill to possess her.

Collected here in one volume for the first time, volumes one and two of The Vampire Diaries, the tale of two vampire brothers and the beautiful girl torn between them.

I thought it was finally time to give this series a go. If I like it I plan to read all the books and then catch up on the TV show (:

What's in your mailbox?

Laguna Cove by Alyson Noel

2010-07-23T16:11:00.000-04:00

Book review #56

Laguna Cove by Alyson Noel

Rating: Three and a half stars

Summary: (taken from Goodreads)

Moving to sunny Southern Cal feels like punishment to 17-year-old Anne. the hippie-ish school is different from her old one on the East Coast, and the social scene is all about hanging out at the beach and surfing. And then there's Ellie: beautiful, competitive queen of the social scene who takes an instant disliking to Anne. So when Chris--one of Ellie's oldest friends and, oh yeah, the most gorgeous guy in school--reaches out to Anne and offers to teach her how to surf, sparks fly...in more ways than one.

After reading such a heavy read earlier, Laguna Cove was just what I needed to lighten the mood. It was fast, enjoyable, and very fluffy. It was the perfect mindless read to take your mind of things. It felt nice to jump into the warm environment of Laguna Cove. Although I did enjoy this one, I did have some issues about it.

Anne is being forced to move to luxury California to live with her dad. It sounds really great to most people, but not to Anne. Things were great back home, she had a great boyfriend, was number one of the dive team, and awesome friends. She begins to slowly adjust when she meets some friends and tries to learn how to surf. Things start getting way better when her and Chris connect. Now the only problems she has is dealing with stone cold Ellie and then of course her family issues on the side.

Laguna Cove was told through the point of views of four different girls. Usually I love when stories are told through different narrators. But I feel like it didn't really work in this case. Each girl had a LOT going on in their lives, and most of the things didn't connect. I feel like it would have been nicer if it was just focused on Anne and Ellie's point of views. Although saying that, the characters were pretty great. I didn't love them, but it was nice seeing such a diverse cast. There was Anne of course, who I definitely understood where she was coming from. Then there was Ellie. I saw her pain and her thirst for competition, I'm glad I got to see her side or else I wouldn't have understood her at all. The two other girls were Lola and Jade who both had their share of boy problems.

One of my favorite things about the book would be the fact that it was in a summer location, but it wasn't summer vacation. It was at that time of year where school was just starting, which is creeping up pretty quickly for most of is. It was nice seeing school actually play a big part of the plot. The other thing I enjoyed was the role of surfing in the book. Who wouldn't love reading about the beach and waves?

The last thing I had a problem with was the ending. It was very vague, but I could at least tell that things came together a bit too nicely. Overall, I think this is a great summer read if you have some time to spare. It wasn't the best book in the world, but I definitely don't regret picking it up :)

New Award!

2010-07-22T20:31:00.000-04:00

So I received like the coolest award ever from The Twisted Book Junkie over at Broken Day Dreams and A Literary Odyssey. She has a seriously awesome blog that you should definitely check out. And I just love the name of it :) Thanks again!

There are a couple of rules that go along with the Oh My Blog award which are:

1.) Get really excited that you got the coolest award EVER!! (Already done!)
2.) Choose ONE of the following options of accepting the OMB Award:

Get really drunk and blog for 15 minutes straight, or for as long as you can focus.
Write about your most embarrassing moment.
Write a "Soundtrack of your childhood" post.
Make your next blog a "vlog" (video blog). Basically, you're talking to the camera about whatever.
Take a picture of yourself first thing in the morning, before you do anything else (hair, make-up, etc.) and post it.

3.) Pass the award on to at least three, but preferably more, awesome bloggers. Don't forget to tell them.

So all of these options kind of scare me, but I'll brave it out and tell you guys about one of my most embarrassing moments.

My first driving lesson:
The day I had my first driving lesson is a day I definitely won't forget. It was on Mother's Day and it was the parking lot of the nearby elementary school. I get into the car and I start laughing, I don't even know why. I was kind of freaked out that the car was moving. My mom was sitting next to acting extremely nervous. I went around the parking lot a couple of times, jerking here, almost going onto the grass once. My mom had her hand on the wheel half the time. And then I don't know what happened. My life flashed before my eyes (not really haha). Somehow as I was turning my foot slipped onto the gas hard instead of the brake. Out comes a huge thud that could literally be heard a mile away. I crash right into the sidewalk sideways. The tire deflates. I'm sitting there. In shock. My mom is traumatized. We frantically call my dad and after a long hour (hourish) we get the tire changed. But! The spare tire is flat too! My dad rushes to the house to get the air pump. As we try to pump the tire we realize the pump is out of charge! In the end, my older brother ends up bringing us another pump. So...when we drove it home there were weird noises. Turns out not only did a pop the tire, but something more serious. It took lots of repairing to do. The rest of my family was in historical laughter when they found out what happened, while I've been scared every since...

I'm going to pass this on to these amazing blogs:
Michelle's Bookshelf
YA Addict
Reading Nook
Reading Is Sexy
Une Parole
Chick Loves Lit
I Have a Dream
Suenos En La Luna

I want to give a special shout out to Bere at Suenos En La Luna. She has an amazing blog that is definitely one of my favorites. Her posts are so thoughtful and inspiring. If you haven't checked it out, then you are definitely missing out :) And I almost forgot to mention that she's one of the sweetest bloggers out there :D

Oh and I also received the Versatile Blogger Award from Savannah over at Books With Bite. Thank you so much Savannah. Her blog is also really cool and she has an awesome layout :) I already received this award so I won't be passing it on again.

Waiting on Wednesday (22)

2010-07-21T16:31:00.000-04:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly meme, hosted by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we "can't-wait-to-read".

Playing Hurt by Holly Schindler

Release date: March 1st 2011

Summary: (taken from Goodreads)

Playing Hurt centers on two former athletes: Chelsea Keyes, a basketball star whose promising career has been catastrophically snipped short by a horrific accident on the court, and Clint Morgan, an ex-hockey player who gave up his much-loved sport following his own game-related tragedy.

Chelsea meets Clint (who's working as a resort fishing guide) soon after arriving with her family for a summer vacation in Lake of the Woods, Minnesota. Sparks fly, igniting the pages, even though Chelsea has a boyfriend back home in Missouri...and even though Clint has sworn never to put himself in the position to be hurt emotionally again.

Their unlikely romance has the potential to heal their heartache and force Chelsea and Clint to realize just how timidly they've been living - but are they really ready to give themselves completely to one another? How will the weeks spent in another man's arms play into Chelsea's feelings for her boyfriend when she returns home? Will Clint allow himself to fall for a woman who's bound to leave him at the end of her summer vacation? By playing hurt - entering into a romance with already-broken hearts - are they just setting themselves up for the kind of injury from with they could never recover? Will Chelsea and Clint pull away from each other before they have a chance to find out just how beautiful their story could be?

I first saw this on Michelle's Bookshelf yesterday and thought it sounded pretty darn awesome! I haven't read her other novel A Blue S Dark yet, but I heard it was wonderful. Oh and I love the cover! :)

Teaser Tuesday (16)

2010-07-20T17:40:00.001-04:00

Teaser Tuesday is hosted by MizB over at Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along. Just do the following:

-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!

Teaser:

"Lola stood in front of the mirror, dripping water all over the mosaic-tiled floor, wondering how her life had gotten so complicated. True, she may have been just the tiniest bit responsible for keeping secrets from those who she loved, but was it really such a bad thing to want to make everyone around you happy?"

-pg.61, Laguna Cove by Alyson Noel

I'm really loving this one so far. It's exactly the type of book I needed after reading Forbidden. Look out for the review coming soon :)

Daily Dose Monday (18)

2010-07-19T21:48:00.000-04:00

Daily Dose Monday is hosted by Holly over at Good Golly Miss Holly and features inspiring/magical images that you would like to share with your readers :)