In My Mailbox

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi and she was inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie!

I was so excited that my hold finally came in at the library.  I think I've had this hold in place since before Christmas!

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  The Van Alen Legacy by Melissa De La Cruz

I've also been reading an online book link that I received in my email inbox this week.  I'm intrigued so far but I have such a hard time reading books on the computer.  It's young adult, but so far seems much "cleaner" than a lot of YA I've read.  If your interested check out
http://amostcuriousdestiny.blogspot.com/

Cover Wars - Thirteen Reasons Why

I'm trying out something new.  I've been trying to post reviews 4 days a week while participating in book meme's the other 3.  The problem is I don't always read 4 books a week.  Eventually I'm going run out of reviews (and I like my reviews to post a week or two after I finish reading them).   I don't  really want to participate in another meme.  But, I'm having trouble coming up with something original for my blog.  So, I'm going to play with a couple ideas for my Saturday posts.  I'm thinking something different each Saturday of the month.

       So, my first Saturday post is going to be different countries covers of my favorite book for February.   If you haven't read Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher, I highly recommend it.  It was amazing!

                   

I'm not sure how to tell which cover belong to which countries :)   The first one is the one we get in the US.  And, I know the second one is the paperback version in the UK.   The red one reminds me more of the covers for adult suspense novels.  I assume it's suppose to be Clay on the cover of the blue one.   I like the tape one the last one.

I think my favorite in the US version.  I like the setting (the park fits in so well with the story).  And Hannah looks so lonely.   It's very fitting.

Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl

Title: Beautiful Creatures
Author(s): Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl
Published: December 2009
Pages: 576
ISBN: 9780316042673
Source: Purchased Copy

Description: There were no surprises in Gatlin County. We were pretty much the epicenter of the middle of nowhere.
At least, that's what I thought.Turns out, I couldn't have been more wrong. There was a curse.
There was a girl. And in the end, there was a grave. Lena Duchannes is unlike anyone the small Southern town of Gatlin has ever seen, and she's struggling to conceal her power and a curse that has haunted her family for generations. But even within the overgrown gardens, murky swamps and crumbling graveyards of the forgotten South, a secret cannot stay hidden forever. Ethan Wate, who has been counting the months until he can escape from Gatlin, is haunted by dreams of a beautiful girl he has never met. When Lena moves into the town's oldest and most infamous plantation, Ethan is inexplicably drawn to her and determined to uncover the connection between them.
In a town with no surprises, one secret could change everything.

I Give This Book 4 Stars!

I've noticed the the reviews of this book seem to be situated on both sides of the spectrum with very few in the middle.  You either love it or you hate it.  While not 5 star worthy in my opinion, I really liked it!  I found the male narrative to be interesting and refreshing.  And despite that so many say that he isn't a believable "male" teenager, I think he is.  I don't think we can say what the typical a male teen thinks (we may know how they act, but I think that is entirely different).  I also really liked Lena.  She was the opposite of what a lot of female characters are in today's teen fiction.  I think we get a good look at how she struggles to fit in, and with understanding her own growing powers.  I loved the cast of characters.  Each had something to add to the story, and I thought they were well developed.  I was curious how dual authors would work in this story, but I honestly would not have known if both names weren't on the cover.  The story flows together seamlessly.   The only drawback, in my opinion, was the ending.  I'm not sure why, but I felt that it was a bit of a let down.  You get so much tension and suspense built up to that point, and then I felt I didn't get the resolution I wanted.  Not enough to drag down the book to much.  You can bet I will be reading the sequel (I can't imagine that there won't be one).

 

Magic Under Glass by Jaclyn Dolamore

Title: Magic Under Glass
Author: Jaclyn Dolamore
Published: December 2009
Pages: 225
ISBN: 9781599904306
Source: ARC from Around The World Tours

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

I Give This Book 4 Stars!

I'm being a little generous giving this 4 stars.  But, I really do think it's worth your attention.  Nimira catches your attention right from the start.  You can't help but understand her actions.  Parry is interesting as well.  You've never quite understand him (even after his secrets are revealed).  I had a difficult time grasping the concept of falling in love with a fairy trapped in a machine.  It didn't seem real to me until later.  I also think there are some information gaps.  I think that author could have included a little bit more information on the world the characters  lived in and the events that lead up to the story.  I especially would have liked more information concerning the conflict between the faries and the humans.  I just felt like I didn't get enough background information.  The ending also seemed a little pieced together.  Still, the overall product was fun and I enjoyed it. 

* I wanted to point out that there is some controversy surrounding the cover of this book.  Nimira is described as bein dark-skinned (I imagine someone of Arabic decent).  The cover is pictured with a white model (although I still think she has more olive skin tone but this is coming from a redhead with very fair skin).  From what I understand, Bloomsbury has issued a new cover for this book and stopped shipping the old one.  I know copies of this cover are still being sold because I saw it at my local Barnes & Noble just a couple days ago.  I did not realize what a problem this was in the publishing industry (second time in 6 months that Bloomsbury alone has come under fire for this).  I hope in the future, publishing companies will realize that this practice of cover white washing is unacceptable.  This is the new cover

  

Beastly by Alex Flinn

Title: Beastly
Author: Alex Flinn
Published: October 2007
Pages: 304
ISBN: 9780060874162
Source: Library

Description: I am a beast.
A beast. Not quite wolf or bear, gorilla or dog but a horrible new creature who walks upright—a creature with fangs and claws and hair springing from every pore. I am a monster.
You think I'm talking fairy tales? No way. The place is New York City. The time is now. It's no deformity, no disease. And I'll stay this way forever—ruined—unless I can break the spell.
Yes, the spell, the one the witch in my English class cast on me. Why did she turn me into a beast who hides by day and prowls by night? I'll tell you. I'll tell you how I used to be Kyle Kingsbury, the guy you wished you were, with money, perfect looks, and the perfect life. And then, I'll tell you how I became perfectly . . . beastly.

I Give This Book 3 Stars!

I was amazed at how easy it was to hate a main character.  I guess the author was hoping you would look past this and continue on with the story.  I did, but only because I figured it this book was true to the fairy tale, he couldn't stay like this for the entire story.  I was right, but I don't think he redeemed himself very well.  It almost seemed like instead of changing and becoming a better person, he just managed to find someone to overlook his faults and love him anyway.  Which, I guess is the point of the story.   I did like the fact that it was told from the beast's point of view.  But, I don't feel like it added anything new to the fairy tale.  The only difference was it was set in modern day New York.  Everything else felt exactly the same. 

 

Teaser Tuesday

 Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of 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!

My Teaser:
     "Let him go," they all said.
Never was such a train of gunpowder ignited with three small words, when I let him go.

~I, Elizabeth by Rosalind Miles

It's Monday! What Are You Reading?

It's Monday! What Are You Reading? is now brought to you by Sheila from One Person's Journey Through A World of Books!

Last week I decided to read completely from my shelves.  Since I could not make up my mind what I wanted to read, I used Random.org to choose for me.  Since the website was kind enough to choose larger books, I only managed to get 3 read.  I did have to sneak in a book from Around The World Tours in there though!

I read The Hidden Diary of Marie Antoinette by Carolly Erickson first.  While I enjoyed the diary format of the book, it was just ok.  I felt like the book ignored all the "bad" things surrounding Antoinette and glamorize her.  I will be looking for more book about her to see how she is portrayed differently. 

My book for Around the World Tours was Magic Under Glass by Jaclyn Dolamore.  Great new author and I recommend this story to anyone who likes young adult books. 

My last book of the week was The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown.  I was really looking forward to this book (I loved The Da Vinci Code and Angels and Demons).  While it wasn't a let down, I felt it was a bit heavy handed at times.  The revelation didn't hold as much truth to at as the past two novels.  Although, I have to say the book made me really want to visit Washington D.C.!

I'm currently reading I, Elizabeth by Rosalind Miles.  I love books about Queen Elizabeth I, but this book starts out really slow.  It's finally starting to pick up.  I also plan on reading Numbers by Rachel Ward and Secret of the Dragon Sanctuary by Brandon Mull.  I don't think I'll have time for another one as I, Elizabeth and  Dragon Sanctuary are both 500+ page books!

 

In My MailboX & Library Loot

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi and she was inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie!

Library Loot is a weekly event co-hosted by Eva and Marg that encourages bloggers to share the books they’ve checked out from the library.

 

So it took me forever to realize I didn't receive anything in the mail this week.  I was convinced I had, but could not remember what it was lol!
I did make a trip to the library this week.  The library is helping me make good progress on the Complete That Series challenge!

    

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  The Titan's Curse by Rick Riordan


• 
  
  Inkspell by Cornelia Funke

Edited to add:
~Funny thing, up above I stated that I could have sworn I received something in the mail but could not remember what it was.  Well, I finally remembered.  And also remembered why I couldn't find a new book anywhere was because I've already read it and sent it on it's way!  So here it is

• 
  
  Magic Under Glass by Jaclyn Dolamore (Around The World Tours)

The Sea of Monsters (Percy Jackson and the Olympians, #2) by Rick Riordan

Title: The Sea of Monsters
Author: Rick Riordan
Published: April 2006
Pages: 279
ISBN: 9780786856862
Source: Library

Description: After a summer spent trying to prevent a catastrophic war among the Greek gods, Percy Jackson is finding his seventh-grade school year unnervingly quiet. His biggest problem is dealing with his new friend, Tyson, a six-foot-three, mentally challenged homeless kid who follows Percy everywhere, making it hard for Percy to have any normal friends. But things don't stay quiet for long.
Percy soon discovers there is trouble at Camp Half-Blood: the magical borders that protect Half-Blood Hill have been poisoned by a mysterious enemy, and the only safe haven for demigods is on the verge of being overrun by mythological monsters. To save the camp, Percy needs the help of his best friend, Grover, who has been taken prisoner on an island somewhere in the Sea of Monsters, the dangerous waters Greek heroes have sailed for millennia. Only today, the Sea of Monsters goes by a new name: The Bermuda Triangle.
Together with his friends, Percy must retrieve the Golden Fleece from the Island of the Cyclopes or Camp Half-Blood will be destroyed. But first, Percy will learn a stunning new secret about his family, one that makes him question whether being claimed as Poseidon's son is an honor or simply a cruel joke.

I Give This Book 4 Stars!

I'm still amazed at how the author manages to work in Greek mythology into today's world.  And it works wonderfully!  These books are just as believable as the Harry Potter series.  Although, I see the similarities that I'm sure many people pick at.  But, the context is different for me.  And, that makes the story different.   I find the adventures interesting and the Greek stories and lore work right into the story.  These are books that kids can pick up and not realize they are actually learning something while reading it.  I like watching Percy grow into accepting who he is and what his future responsibilities may be.  I'm very happy that I found this series!

Grip of the Shadow Plague (Fablehaven, #3) by Brandon Mull

Title: Grip of the Shadow Plague
Author: Brandon Mull
Published: April 2008
Pages: 487
ISBN: 9781590388983
Source: Library

Description: Kendra and Seth along with Grandpa and Grandma Sorenson discover that someone or something has released a plague that is turning the light creatures of Fablehaven into creatures of darkness. And for the first time, Kendra and Warren must visit another magical preserve called Lost Mesa in Arizona and try to recovery another hidden artifact. Can the plague be stopped? Can the artifact be found? And most importantly, is the Sphinx a traitor?

I Give This Book 4 Stars!

While reading this, it does not feel like a 500 page books.  I breezed right though this anxious to get to the bottom of what was going on.  I've loved the characters since book 1, but in this book, I was surprised to see how much they grew.  Seth may have finally learned a few lessons and proved he belongs to the Fablehaven world.  Kendra continues to surprise me.  She takes everything into stride so well.  I wonder if there will be a time that she might falter a bit though.  It might make her seem more human.  I love how we get a better glimpse of the characters the inhabit this "preserve."  It makes me think we might never even tip the iceberg on all the creatures the exist in this world.  I like that!  I can not wait to get to the next one!

Royal Blood (Vampire Kisses, Book 6) by Ellen Schreiber

Title: Royal Blood
Author: Ellen Schreiber
Published: June 2009
Pages: 192
ISBN: 9780061288876
Source: Library

Description:  Summer break is over, and Raven is hardly eager to be returning to Dullsville High. Not only does school mean daily interaction with preppy pest Trevor Mitchell, but her sleep-filled days and romantic nights with her immortal boyfriend, Alexander, must come to an end. Plus the shock of morning classes isn't the only change in store.
An unexpected letter turns up at Alexander's mansion—announcing his parents will be coming to town. And once they arrive, just about everyone has had a sighting of the macabre couple except Raven. What could be delaying Alexander from introducing Raven to them? Could Alexander be hiding something about his parents' homecoming?
When Raven is finally invited to the most thrilling dinner party of her life, the next turn of events could transform her entire future with Alexander. The sixth book in Ellen Schreiber's bestselling Vampire Kisses series takes an unusual twist in the continuing romance of Raven and Alexander.

I Give This book 3.5 Stars

This book was a little bit of a let down after book 5, although I still enjoyed it.  Raven finally gets to meet the elusive vampire parents.  They are everything I expect and don't expect them to be.  It seemed such a typical teen reaction book.  The parents do something drastic and so in return Raven and Alexander  overreact.  I did think both scenes of the two sets of parents having dinner together were great.  Also, enjoyed watching Alexander get to showcase his art.  Although this book does raise a question for me (surprised I haven't thought about it before).  Do vampires age for awhile and then stop?  In this series, vampires can be born and "grow up", but I don't think they die.  So, at what point to they stop aging?  Confusing for me really...

The Coffin Club (Vampire Kisses, Book 5) by Ellen Schreiber

Title: The Coffin Club
Author: Ellen Schreiber
Published: July 2008
Pages: 192
ISBN: 9780061288852
Source: Library

Description: It's tough for love-struck Raven to imagine what's keeping her nocturnal boyfriend from returning to Dullsville. So there's only one thing to do—find Alexander. Along the way, Raven can't resist the spot where she feels most at home, the Coffin Club. But when she stumbles upon a secret door in the club, she descends into a dim catacomb—to a hidden hangout where the house drink happens to be type A or B. Drawn to one of its shadowy members, Raven suspects she's in over her head. But exploring the covert club is too tempting, even after coming face-to-face with Alexander's trouble-stirring enemy.
Can Raven delve further into the Underworld unbeknownst to Alexander—and also solve the mystery of her true love's own secrecy?

I Give This Book 4 Stars!

This one is by far my favorite of the series.  At first, I was afraid it might be a repeat of things that have already happened since it once again seemed to involve Jasper.   Plus, so much of the book takes place at The Coffin Club, which we get a glimpse of in book 2.  But, this one packed a lot more punch than previous books.  First, Raven gets a much closer look into the vampire world than she has before.  She even make some new friends.  It was nice to see her finally fit in somewhere.  It also had a bit of mystery too it.   Of course, Raven can stay out of things.  Even if it's a matter of life or death she doesn't realize the danger she puts herself in (like a vampire blood vote!).  I also enjoyed the twist that came at the end.  It explained so much that happened throughout the story!

In My Mailbox and Library Loot!

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi and she was inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie!

Library Loot is a weekly event co-hosted by Eva and Marg that encourages bloggers to share the books they’ve checked out from the library.

 

Won From Goodreads First Look

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  Numbers by Rachel Ward

 

From the Library:

• 
  
  Secrets of the Dragon Sanctuary by Brandon Mull

Tempted (House of Night, #6) by P.C. Cast & Kristin Cast

Title: Tempted
Author: P.C. Cast & Kristin Cast
Published: October 2009
Pages: 320
ISBN: 9780312567484
Source: Library

Description:  So…you’d think after banishing an immortal being and a fallen High Priestess, saving Stark’s life, biting Heath, getting a headache from Erik, and almost dying, Zoey Redbird would catch a break.  Sadly, a break is not in the House of Night school forecast for the High Priestess in training and her gang.  Juggling three guys is anything but a stress reliever, especially when one of them is a sexy Warrior who is so into protecting Zoey that he can sense her emotions.  Speaking of stress, the dark force lurking in the tunnels under the Tulsa Depot is spreading, and Zoey is beginning to believe Stevie Rae could be responsible for a lot more than a group of misfit red fledglings.  Aphrodite’s visions warn Zoey to stay away from Kalona and his dark allure, but they also show that it is Zoey who has the power to stop the evil immortal.  Soon it becomes obvious that Zoey has no choice: if she doesn’t go to Kalona he will exact a fiery vengeance on those closest to her.  Will Zoey have the courage to chance losing her life, her heart, and her soul? 

I Give This Book 4 Stars!

I think I have a new favorite in this series.  I had no idea this book was going to go this direction.  The authors dropped some of the horrible "teen talk" that has dominated this series.  Plus, the boy issues took a back burner in this book.  Zoey grew up in this book and it was such a breath of fresh from the drama that has encased the series so far.  I like how Kalona has many faces.  I'm not entirely sure which one is the real one.  The ending of this book was so dramatic.  I did not expect it and I actually had to re-read it to make sure I understood what had just happened!

Dance with a Vampire (Vampire Kisses, Book 4) by Ellen Schreiber

Title: Dance With A Vampire
Author: Ellen Schreiber
Published: July 2007
Pages: 192
ISBN: 9780061132230
Source: Library

Description: The most important night of the year is drawing near . . . but not without a little trouble from the Underworld
Dullsville's newest night-faring intruder may be only a tween, but Raven knows that Valentine Maxwell, the younger sibling of two nefarious vampires, is a full-size menace. Valentine becomes even more of a threat when he befriends her brother, Billy. Raven must try to shield Billy, even as the biggest excitement of the year approaches: attending prom with her immortal love, Alexander. And while Alexander is one kind of vampire—sweet—Raven soon learns Valentine is another.
Could Valentine somehow know Raven's private thoughts about turning into a vampire?

I Give This Book 4 Stars!

I am so glad this series is getting better.  I had my doubts after the first two.  I have figure out two of my issues with this series though.  First, I think some of the books could be combined.  They function all right by themselves, but they are to connected (not to mention short).  Second, I have no problem with Raven being Goth.  But, for some reason it seems so cliché.  I kind of just ignore that, but I do not feel it really adds to the story.   This story I think was more fun.  I liked seeing Raven get excited about something that it is so "high school".  Of course, she did it her own way!  I also thought it was fun watching Raven and Alexander way over react to Valentine.  I don't think he was all bad, more just really lost.  I also love how it seems Billy and Raven are finally starting to form an actual relationship.  I also liked how Raven finally admitted that maybe she was not quite ready to be a vampire.  I think it made her character have more depth.  It also put some substance into her and Alexander's relationship!

Splendor (Luxe, #4) by Anna Godbersen

Title: Splendor
Author: Anna Godbersen
Published: November 2009
Pages: 391
ISBN: 9780061626319
Source: Library

Description: As spring turns into summer, Elizabeth relishes her new role as a young wife, while her sister, Diana, searches for adventure abroad. But when a surprising clue about their father's death comes to light, the Holland girls wonder at what cost a life of splendor comes.
Carolina Broad, society's newest darling, fans a flame from her past, oblivious to how it might burn her future. Penelope Schoonmaker is finally Manhattan royalty—but when a real prince visits the city, she covets a title that comes with a crown. Her husband, Henry, bravely went to war, only to discover that his father's rule extends well beyond New York's shores and that fighting for love may prove a losing battle.
In the dramatic conclusion to the bestselling Luxe series, New York's most dazzling socialites chase dreams, cling to promises, and tempt fate. As society watches what will become of the city's oldest families and newest fortunes, one question remains: Will its stars fade away or will they shine ever brighter?

I Give This Book 4.5 Stars!

I was reluctant to read this book.  Not because I was afraid I wouldn't like it, but because I really didn't want this series to end.  I've loved the parties, the catty girls, the big dresses, and of course all the drama.  This book still had all the drama, but it has evolved.  The drama has become more adult, if that's possible.   I was not expecting the twists that came in the end.   Although not suprising the length that people will go to to come out on top (both for fame and money).  There was enough build up that the story never felt slow.  While, I was shocked at the ending, I didn't feel any of the people acted out of character.  It was a fantastic way to end the series!

Vampireville (Vampire Kisses, Book 3) by Ellen Schreiber

Title: Vampireville
Author: Ellen Schreiber
Published: August 2006
Pages: 192
ISBN: 9780060776251
Source: Library

Description: For goth-girl Raven, dating her dream boyfriend is complicated, especially because Alexander's secret means that they can see each other only at night.
And now the pair must be extra wary in the dark with Alexander's archrival, Jagger, appearing around town. As if Jagger isn't enough cause for worry, Luna, his strikingly pale sister, has also surfaced and seems to have her sights set on Raven's longtime nemesis, Trevor. Together, Raven and Alexander must begin a terrifying search for Jagger and Luna's hideout to drive them away -- that is, if it's not already too late to save Dullsville from becoming Vampireville.

I Give This Book 4 Stars!

I feel like I'm being a little generous giving this 4 stars, but it was such a vast improvement over the first two in the series.  Raven stepped out of the one dimensional goth girl image for awhile in this book.  I was glad for that because for some reason it still bugs me that Raven has to be goth.  And the way it is described seems more a fashion statement than anything.  Anyway, I also feel I learned a little more about Alexander in this book.  He gains a little needed background.  It gives him strength as a character.  I also enjoyed what Jagger and Luna brought to the story.  Jagger was creepy and you never know exactly what he up too.  I couldn't figure out Luna either.  All together a better story that the first two book!

It's Monday! What Are You Reading?

This meme is now hosted by Sheila over at One Persons Journey Through A World of Books. 

I've been really busy the past couple weeks and haven't got as much reading done as I normally do.  Since I've also got things to get done today, I have to go back to my old style of this meme.  Hopefully will be able to continue with my new format next week :)

Read Last Week:

• 
  
  Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl


• 
  
  Hunting Ground by Patricia Briggs

Currently Reading:

• 
  
  Beautiful Dead: Jonas by Eden Maguire

To Read This Week

• 
  
  Shadowland by Alyson Noel


• 
  
  Shudder by Jennie Hansen


• 
  
  Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher

 

 

In My Mailbox!

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi and she was inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie!

I forgot a book last week.  

For review...

Beautiful Dead: Jonas by Eden Maguire

 

Bought...

Distant Waves: A Novel of the Titanic by Suzanne Weyn

 

Iron Kissed (Mercedes Thompson, #3) by Patricia Briggs

Title: Iron Kissed
Author: Patricia Briggs
Published: January 2008
Pages: 287
ISBN: 9780441015665
Source: Library

Description: When her former boss and mentor is arrested for murder and left to rot behind bars by his own kind, it's up to shapeshifting car mechanic Mercy Thompson to clear his name, whether he wants her to or not. And she'll have to choose between the two werewolves in her life-whether she wants to or not.

I Give This Book 4.5 Stars!

I was so close to giving this book 5 stars.  It was wonderful.  I was suprised that I liked that it centered around the fae so much.  For those who haven't read the series, the fae are magical creatures.  This can include gremlins, gnomes, and fairies.  In this book you get a very up front look at a few fae legends and very they're very rigid beliefs.  I really got into the intensity of the story.  Mercy has a knack for sticking her head out for anybody that means something to her.  And for some reason, it makes me like her even more.  I think she's a kick ass heroine.  I liked watching her figure out her love interest issues.  I also appreciated the way the author handled a very sensitive subject without getting graphic (although some people seem to feel differently)!  So far this series has everything paranormal wrapped up in it.  In 3 books I've gotten werewolves, witches, sorcerers, fae, and vampires.

Kissing Coffins (Vampire Kisses, Book 2) by Ellen Schreiber

Title: Kissing Coffins
Author: Ellen Schreiber
Published: May 2007
Pages: 240
ISBN: 9780060776244
Source: Library Book

Description:  Not far from Dullsville, someone's lurking in the dark. . . .
After meeting the handsome and shadowy Alexander Sterling, goth-girl Raven's dark world has a bright, new glow. But as in her favorite movie, Kissing Coffins, Raven knows that love always has its complications, especially when Alexander has a big secret to guard.
When Alexander suddenly disappears, Raven leaves Dullsville to begin a dangerous search to find him. Can she stay safe, no matter who—or what—she encounters on the way?

I Give This Book 3.5 Stars!

I have to be honest in saying if I would have bought this series I would have be extremely disappointed after the first couple books.  But, since I got these from the library, I don't feel as let down.  I'm not saying that this is the worst book I've ever read.  Because they are a quick and easy read.  I just don't feel anything for the characters.  I can't put my finger on what it is.  The characters lack depth.  I don't feel like I know much about them besides what is obvious.  I don't think the words Goth and Vampire are character descriptions.  I like the story line though.  I just wish the lead characters added more to the story. 

 

Extras (Uglies, #4) by Scott Westerfeld

Title: Extras
Author: Scott Westerfeld
Published: October 2007
Pages: 417
ISBN: 9781416951179
Source: Library

Description: It's a few years after rebel Tally Youngblood took down the uglies/pretties/specials regime. Without those strict roles and rules, the world is in a complete cultural renaissance. "Tech-heads" flaunt their latest gadgets, "kickers" spread gossip and trends, and "surge monkeys" are hooked on extreme plastic surgery. And it's all monitored on a bazillion different cameras. The world is like a gigantic game of American Idol. Whoever is getting the most buzz gets the most votes. Popularity rules.
As if being fifteen doesn't suck enough, Aya Fuse's rank of 451,369 is so low, she's a total nobody. An extra. But that's just until she gets to kick a good story for herself.
Then Aya meets a clique of girls who pull crazy tricks, yet are deeply secretive of it. Aya wants desperately to kick their story, to show everyone how intensely cool the Sly Girls are. But doing so would propel her out of extra-land and into the world of fame, celebrity...and extreme danger. A world she's not prepared for.

I Give This Book 4 Stars!

I wasn't sure of an add on book to a trilogy.  Especially when I didn't think the third books was all that great.  But, the included chapter at the end of Specials had me intrigued.  I was pleasantly surprised.  I ended up liking this way more than the last.  Aya was a refreshing change from Tally.  I even understood her desire to be famous.  But, along the way she found what was important and the fame was just a side effect.  I also enjoyed having Tally included in the story as a side character.  It was interesting to see how she's still struggling with herself.  I wasn't expecting the ending to go the way it did.  But, now the story can end and I don't think there is much to continue on from.

Blood Game: An Eve Duncan Forensics Thriller by Iris Johansen

 

Title: Blood Game
Author: Iris Johansen
Published: October 2009
Pages: 384
ISBN: 9780312368128
Source: person copy 

description: First comes darkness, then comes fear
Eve Duncan is back! Blockbuster New York Times bestselling author Iris Johansen’s latest thriller brings Eve closer to discovering her daughter’s killer…and into a web of danger from which she may not be able to escape… 
Eve Duncan returns in a thriller that pits her against the most evil mind she has ever encountered: a ruthless killer who taunts her with his every move…and who has a special affinity for blood. When a Georgia senator’s daughter is found murdered, and her body drained of blood, Eve Duncan is drawn into the web of Kevin Jelak—a serial murderer who is on Eve’s short list of killers who might know something about her missing daughter Bonnie. When a goblet of blood is found in Eve’s refrigerator, she knows the taunting is over…and the games have begun. As Eve and Jelak engage in a dance of death, Eve must call upon those she loves and trusts the most…even if it means bringing them into the game as well.  

I Give This Book 3 Stars! 

I've always liked Eve Duncan books.  I like the cast of characters and what they bring to the story.  This one didn't work for me as much.  It felt very repetitive (I know some information needs to be repeated for those new to the story).  And I really wish the author would have stayed away from what is so huge in pop culture right now.  And yes, I'm talking about vampires.  And this guy wasn't even a vampire in the traditional sense.  The story gets warped around the idea of becoming a vampire just by drinking "worthy" peoples blood.  And then the book brings in a new character who has a history with the vampire.  He didn't fit into the story as well, and I didn't really understand who or what he was.  I did like Joe's new "gift" and would like to see were this goes in the future.  But, this story, I can take it or leave it.

Teaser Tuesday!

 Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of 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!

My Teaser:
How could a Mortal break a Sanguinis Circle?  How could a Mortal ward off a Mentem Interficere so powerful that Ravenwood itself came all but Unbound?

~from Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl

Truly, Madly by Heather Webber Giveaway Winner

And the winner (chosen by random.org) is...

SUSAN! 

I've sent her an email and she has 48 hours to get me her address.  Congrats Susan!