Title: Summer (Beautiful Dead #3)
Author: Eden Maguire
Publisher: Hodder Children's
Published: May 6, 2010
Genre: YA, Paranormal
Pages: 274
Source: Publisher

Six months have passed since the last Ellerton teenager died, but Darina is still traumatized by the stabbing of her own beloved Phoenix. But there's work to be done as Darina must now turn her attention to the shooting of Summer Madison - the beautiful and gifted, singer-song-writer with a heart of gold. It's been nearly a year since the random shooting in a shopping mall caused Summer's meaningless death.

Summer left behind recordings of her wonderful songs and a deep sadness amongst high school friends. Now Darina must act as Summerās agent to track down the psychotic killer in a clear search for justice. With the sound of Summer's music constantly playing inside Darina's head, recalling the wonderful months when she was alive and performing her first gigs, Darina, Phoenix and the Beautiful Dead are determined to catch the crazed killer. And all the while Darina's love for Phoenix continues to beat ...

Summer is dead, and she wants to know why. Brought back from limbo, she’s on the track to solve the mystery surrounding the random shooting that killed her in her prime, but she’s frustrated, and it seems like every time she thinks she’s getting close to figuring out the truth, something else pops up and throws a wrench in it all again. As Summer begins to fade into an everlasting limbo, Darina must discover the truth about Summer’s death at all costs, but it might be more than she was expecting, and without a clear suspect or even a place to start, discovering the truth about Summer’s death might just be too much for the Beautiful Dead this time.

Ok, if you haven’t read the series, Summer is book three in the Beautiful Dead series about the Beautiful Dead, souls chosen to return from limbo, marked with angel wings and given unique powers, to discover what happened to them and why they died. Following the same general premise as the first two books, Jonas and Arizona, Summer starts with a bang – literally picking up with Summer’s sudden death. Eden Maguire has created a rich series with an interesting and fluctuating cast of characters that adds depth to each installment of the Beautiful Dead story.

I read the first two books in the series a good while ago, and I quite enjoyed them, so I was excited to tackle Summer. As with the previous books, I enjoyed the dynamic between Darina and Phoenix, her (un)dead boyfriend, but I have to say that Darina’s voice got to me a bit this time. She was so jealous all the time, and I felt that almost hindered the story of Summer. I wanted to know what happened to Summer, but I felt it was weighted down by Darina’s insecurities. That said, I do love that the plot wasn’t so cut and dried this time. I enjoyed the twists and turns that came with a lack of a suspect in Summer’s shooting, and I thought that really propelled the mystery of Summer forward.

All in all, Summer is a good third installment in the Beautiful Dead series. It definitely kept me guessing despite my issues with Darina this time. I give it a strong 3.5 out of 5, and I’d recommend it to YA fans of the series (you should read books one and two first, or you’ll be lost), as well as those who enjoy fantasy and paranormal novels.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

In My Mailbox is an amazing weekly meme hosted by Kristi from The Story Siren that features the books we have received during the week. It's so much fun because we get to see what our fellow bloggers stumbled upon this week and add even more to our piles of books! Without further ado, this week I received the following books:

FOR REVIEW

Awaken by Katie Kacvinsky

(ARC - Thank you, Cornucopia of Dystopia)

Maddie lives in a world where everything is done on the computer. Whether it’s to go to school or on a date, people don’t venture out of their home. There’s really no need. For the most part, Maddie’s okay with the solitary, digital life—until she meets Justin. Justin likes being with people. He enjoys the physical closeness of face-to-face interactions. People aren’t meant to be alone, he tells her. Suddenly, Maddie feels something awakening inside her—a feeling that maybe there is a different, better way to live.

FOR REVIEW

The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter

(eARC - Thank you, Harlequin Teen & Netgalley)

Every girl who has taken the test has died. Now it's Kate's turn. It's always been just Kate and her mom--and now her mother is dying. Her last wish? To move back to her childhood home. So Kate's going to start at a new school with no friends, no other family and the fear her mother won't live past the fall. Then she meets Henry. Dark. Tortured. And mesmerizing. He claims to be Hades, god of the Underworld--and if she accepts his bargain, he'll keep her mother alive while Kate tries to pass seven tests.

FREE NOOK BOOK

The Demon Girl by Penelope Fletcher

(Thank you, Barnes & Noble)

Rae Wilder has problems. Plunged into a world of dark magic, fierce creatures and ritual sacrifice, she is charged with a guarding a magical amulet. 

Rae finds herself beaten up, repeatedly, and forced to make a choice: to live and die human, or embrace her birth-right and wield magics that could turn her into something wicked, a force of nature nothing can control.

Title: Angel in My Pocket
Author: Ilene Cooper
Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
Published: March 15, 2011
Genre: MG, Contemporary
Pages: 288
Source: Publisher

When Bette finds an angel coin among the money collected in a carwash, she puts it in her pocket and forgets about it. But things start to change, especially once Gabby, a mysterious and kind new neighbor, moves into Bette’s Chicago building.

Suddenly, Bette is able to face some big losses—her mother’s recent death; her sister’s departure for college—and move forward. And once the angel coin falls into the hands of three other kids in Bette’s class, their lives change, too. Soon, these two girls and two boys will be connected in ways that open them up to unlikely friendships and new ways to believe in themselves. Here is an entirely new twist on the angel trend.

Bette is lost. Since her mother’s death, she’s lost her will to sing, and she feels like she’s in a long tunnel in the dark with no true way out. Then one day, Bette remembers the unique coin she once found with an angel on it, and she sees a little light in her life again. Things begin to turn around and her life starts getting back on track. Then, we meet Joe, an angry classmate who steals her coin, and his luck begins to change, too. The cycle continues and it becomes apparent that the coin is connecting them in some sweet, magical way, and they’re finding their way back to their futures.

I don’t read too many middle-grade novels because the voices are usually too plain or too dumbed down at my age. However, when I read the premise of Angel in My Pocket, I was intrigued by the sweet and simplistic nature of the story. Ilene Cooper has created the perfect MG voice in Bette and presented four great characters that are honest and heartfelt throughout the story. Enriched with an overall theme of finding oneself, believing in the power to change and the possibility of luck, magic and friendship, Angel in My Pocket is a light, sweet and gentle but powerful read.

What really resonated with Angel in My Pocket was the undercurrent of morals and consistent, steady theme of inner strength. Bette, though a bit younger than most of the characters I read, was a great MC with a fully developed voice and story line. She had me rooting for her throughout. Even Joe, snide and unhappy, had me cheering him on. Gabby, Bette’s kind neighbor, was also powerful, and added depth and intrigue to the story. I don’t feel like I got to know Vivi or Andy, the fraternal twins, as well as the other characters, but I’m sure they’ll still resonate for other readers. I do believe it’s a strong, character and theme-driven book, as they fuel the plot.

All in all, Angel in My Pocket is a bright and positive read for all ages – even those who don’t normally read middle grade fiction. I give it a strong 4 out of 5, and I highly recommend it to all fans of lower YA or Middle Grade fiction, especially those who enjoy contemporary fiction with strong morals and themes.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

The Friday Fix is a takeover of my Friday blog post by other bloggers who have volunteered their time and energy to "star" in their very own guest post on Friday. Only one mandatory rule (you can't get out of it!) - you must answer five of the most random questions I throw your way. The rest is up to you. Remember, if you'd like to be featured on the Friday Fix, send me an email, and let me know! So, without further ado, here are the Sarah from Writer, Reader, Dreamer!

The Most Random Questions in the World...

1. Why is the cereal, Grape Nuts, called that when it contains neither grapes nor nuts?

Mr. Post, who created Grape Nuts, called sucrose "grape sugar" and believed that sucrose was formed in the baking process. Since he thought the cereal tasted a little nutty, he went with Grape Nuts. Then again, the people working for Post claim that the name was inspired by the fact that the cereal looks like grape seeds. It's one of those mysterious name origins. All I know for certain is this: Grape Nuts cereal is delicious.

2. If Jimmy cracked corn and no one cares, then who the heck wrote a song about him?

The song, from the mid-19th century, is actually an old slave song talking about a slave who's job it is to do all sorts of things for his master, including keeping a fly from biting his master's horse. Sometimes it's called "Blue Tail Fly." Dan Emmett is sometimes attributed to the song as songwriter, but this isn't necessarily fact as often, the first person to record a folk song took the credit as author. I'll be honest: I only know the chorus, but apparently there are several verses!

3. Can you buy an entire chess set if you go to a pawn shop?

Oh, the pun! I would imagine regardless of the name of the shop (seeing as, in this case, the word pawn is defined as depositing for money or security and a pawn shop is where unredeemed items are sold), and since you can find just about anything at a pawn shop, that yes, you can probably find an entire chess set. Though I have to admit, I just discovered that the word pawn also means "a person serving as security; hostage" and "to pledge; stake;risk" which makes perfect sense when it comes to chess, huh? I mean, my pawns are always the first to go. (All definitions taken from Dictionary.com.)

4. Why are softballs still hard?

When compared with a baseball, the outer lining of a softball is softer. I've only ever played with a softball, and I know that softballs are bigger, and they do give a little when pressed down on, but they're still pretty hard. I've had the bruises and pains over the years to prove it!

5. If Gilligan can make a radio out of a coconut, why didn't he fix the hole in the boat?

Well, then there wouldn't be a series, now would there? Also, it was technically the professor who made the radio out of a coconut, and he trained in science, not as a shipwright. Ha.

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

Well then. Clearly, someone's been eating their Wheaties for breakfast (or Grape Nuts) because Sarah just bested me. She actually told me legit answers?! Who would've thunk it was possible?! In all seriousness though, Sarah is just brilliant, and you should all check out her sweet blog over at Writer, Reader, Dreamer for your daily dose of awesome!

Title: Wither
Author: Lauren DeStefano
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Published: March 22, 2011
Genre: YA, Dystopian
Pages: 356
Source: Galley Grab

What if you knew exactly when you would die?

Thanks to modern science, every human being has become a ticking genetic time bomb—males only live to age twenty-five, and females only live to age twenty. In this bleak landscape, young girls are kidnapped and forced into polygamous marriages to keep the population from dying out.

When sixteen-year-old Rhine Ellery is taken by the Gatherers to become a bride, she enters a world of wealth and privilege. Despite her husband Linden's genuine love for her, and a tenuous trust among her sister wives, Rhine has one purpose: to escape—to find her twin brother and go home.

But Rhine has more to contend with than losing her freedom. Linden's eccentric father is bent on finding an antidote to the genetic virus that is getting closer to taking his son, even if it means collecting corpses in order to test his experiments. With the help of Gabriel, a servant Rhine is growing dangerously attracted to, Rhine attempts to break free, in the limted time she has left.

Rhine is sixteen years old. In our world, it's the time of your life, made of sweet-sixteens and parties. In Rhine's world though, she's nearing the end of her life, and she only has four years left. Bought into an unwilling polygamous marriage, Rhine is fueled by the hope of escaping to her twin brother. But in this unfamiliar world of holograms, medicine and counted days, Rhine has found sisters in her sister wives, and it's getting harder and harder to escape. Can she escape in time, and will she find Rowan? And what happens to her husband, Linden, who genuinely cares for her, and what will become of Gabriel, the attendant she's come to care for?

Wither is most definitely a unique take on dystopian YA fiction. Lauren DeStefano has merged a strong protagonist, a bitter and crippled world and a fierce cast of characters into a powerful story of what happens when society tries and fails to play the hand of the Creator. DeStefano has a knack for descriptions, both beautiful and painful, making Wither into a story that's exhilarating, thrilling, heart-wrenching and strangely beautiful.

I'm a little bit torn on Wither overall though. Wither presents a great protagonist in Rhine. She has a clear, refreshing voice and a definite goal. I really loved her resolve. I also loved Jenna, the oldest of the three sister wives and, despite my resistance, I found myself really feeling for Cecily (a 13-year-old bride) and Linden, as well. I'm a little lost on Gabriel, Rhine's love interest though. I felt his character was a bit flat and one-sided. All I ever saw was the love interest. I never felt any depth. I also struggled with the world-building aspects at times. I get that one generation was perfect and lived a full lifespan, but I want to know what made the change in the next generations that started this epidemic of youth deaths. So, I felt the characters drove the novel, while the plot and world lagged at times.

Overall, Wither is a very strong and unique debut, and I'll definitely want to read the sequel, despite my reservations and lingering questions from Wither. I believe the positives outweighed the negatives in the end. I give it a high 3.5 out of 5, and I'd recommend it to fans of YA, especially those who enjoy dystopian fiction.

I received this eARC free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event hosted by Jill from Breaking the Spine, and specifically spotlights upcoming novels we can't wait to read. As always, there are some amazing upcoming books, but this week I'm particularly excited for...

Title: Displacement
Author: Thalia Chaltas
Publisher: Viking Children's
Published: June 9, 2011
Genre: YA, Contemporary
Pages: 364

Home is supposed to be a place you belong. It's supposed to be parents who are there and siblings who bug you and a life that feels comfortable. It’s not supposed to be an absentee mother or a drowned sister. But that's Vera's reality, and she can’t stand it anymore.

So she runs. She ends up in an old mining town in the middle of the California desert. It's hot, it's dusty, and it's as isolated as Vera feels. As she goes about setting up her life, she also unwittingly starts the process of healing and–eventually– figuring out what home might really mean for her.

I'm not a fan of yellow, but I'm in LOVE with this cover...especially because of the water. Displacement is right on track with my contemps goal for this year, and I think what I love most about the premise is that it sounds downright gritty. I love the idea of a main character healing from within - not just externally - and I think that could really set this book apart. So, yes. I would like to get my paws on this. Preferably stat. What do you think, and what are you waiting on this week?

Talk to Me Tuesday is a brand new weekly meme where we will discuss anything (and everything) literary-related in an open forum of honesty. Questions for the next week will be posted one week prior to the post on the Features page. If you'd like to participate in this weekly feature, simply create your post, link back to me, and add your post to the wonderful Mr. Linky below. Have fun, and have at it!

This week's question: How do you feel about book banning and censorship?

Let me preface this post by saying that all I’m about to say is of my own personal and humble opinions. If you’re offended by what I have to say, don’t read it…and with that, I think that leads pretty well into the Talk to Me Tuesday topic of the day. We’re in a day and age where people seem to think that book censorship and banning is productive, or at the very least, useful. If you don’t believe me, you’ve probably been hiding under a rock. Some of the most powerful authors have had their books come under attack because of the content being deemed “offensive.” Now, I’m a conservative Catholic with a strong and pretty sheltered upbringing, but I can firmly state that I am completely opposed to book banning and censorship.

Take, for example, Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson. It’s the story of a young girl learning to overcome her rape which, obviously, was brutal and traumatic. She lashes out. She’s angry, and yet, she overcomes. There are some people, however, that have called Speak a work of filth and “soft-core porn.” So where do you draw the line? The book educates teens about the importance of raising your voice for yourself. It expresses the need for self-worth and overcoming. Other books like Twenty Boy Summer by Sarah Ockler are criticized for being “loose,” as well, and while I’m not one for the casual sex scenario, that’s really not the point of the book.

Then, you have people banning books like the His Dark Materials trilogy by Philip Pullman. This series has been challenged and banned based on its fairly blatant criticism of organized religion. As a devoutly religious person, yes, I recognize the references, and sure, I’m not the biggest fan, but aren’t we all entitled to our opinions? Reading The Golden Compass at surface-level only let me enjoy the world the author created without being offended by the opinions or religious context. In the same breath, Harry Potter is being challenged in many areas because of the, and I quote “Pagan” context. Really? That’s utter ignorance.

Here’s what some of your fellow bloggers had to say about book banning and censorship:

Danna from Friendly Reader says, “I hate book banning and censorship. It’s stupid, and there’s really no need for it.”

Aimee from Coffee Table Press says, “Society shouldn’t be able to tell people what they are and aren’t allowed to read based on what they think is inappropriate.”

John from Dreaming Reviews says, “It’s douchery. People ban books because they’re ignorant of the content and misinterpret them to meet a twisted agenda.”

Ashley from What’s Your Story Book Reviews says, “Book banning is the product of extreme ignorance. Some people can’t see the true message, so they shun it.”

Ivy from Ivy's Updates says, “I think it can’t be something one person decides. Every parent and every individual has the right to decide for themselves what is and isn’t right for them and their children.”

Here’s what I really mean to say: Not everyone is going to like every book. Not every book is going to be appropriate for every audience. However, if you are only reading a book to harp on the small details that should be overshadowed by the purpose of the book, perhaps you shouldn’t be reading it to begin with. Yes, there are some books I’d rather not read based on their content, but I have the right to make an informed decision, and an author should have the right to write their own stories. So, you don't like a book? Nobody is forcing you to read it, so don't force others NOT to read it. Just a thought... always remember to #speakloudly.

Want to weigh in and do your own Talk to Me Tuesday post for this week? Go ahead and link up!

Tune In Tuesday {1}

This feature is hosted by the lovely Ginger of GReads & showcases music (her other passion in life besides books!). Each week we will post a new or old song in hopes to gain more interest. Let's all help spread the love of music and find some new favourites on the way!

Everyone should feel free to get involved with this meme - just head on over, and link up, and remember to link back to G's blog, too!

This isn't my usual type of music. I am a self-professed punk-rock and alt-rock fan, but I'm fast becoming a fan of electro-pop music. As a fan of Owl City from before Adam Young got signed, I was introduced to LIGHTS, an awesome Canadian musician with a penchant for World of Warcraft and comic books. Plus, her tunes are great, and her lyrics are sweet. (Oh, and I'm jealous of her tattoos!) I hope you all love Saviour by LIGHTS.

Ramona Wray is a Romanian-born author now living in Plymouth with her husband and young son. Her third book in English, Hex, A Witch and Angel Tale was released on February 1, 2011 and combines a classic fantasy premise with twists of past lives, hexes, and the power to create one's own destiny. 

Self-published in English, which is not her native language, if I might add, Hex, A Witch and Angel Tale is thoroughly fun and refreshing. To view my review, click HERE. So, without further ado, onto the interview!

1. Describe Hex, A Witch and Angel Tale in five words or less, please!

Well, that's easy - pink, pink, and pink :) Or - fun, surprising, easy read.

2. Who is (are) your favourite authors, and why?

Ooh, tough question. Jane Austen, because she's so subtle, and funny, and - well - Jane Austen. Annette Curtis Clause, because her novels have amazing depth. Jenny Downham, because Before I Die was like nothing I ever read before. Holly Black, because she is such an innovative writer. Sarah Rees Brennan because she's unique. Cassandra Clare because she writes so elegantly.

3. Do you model your characters' personalities after real-life people?

I'm often inspired by real-life people, but my characters are purely fictional. They live in my head only.

4. Where do you draw your information from?

Different sources. I'm a meticulous observer and I always watch people (though not in a creepy way :). But the way they act, the way they handle emotion, and so on. I was raised by my grandparents so I grew up listening to all kind of myths and legends. After I left Romania, I lived in many different places and everywhere I went I did some degree of research into the local folklore. I carry around a bag of stories that grows a bit heavier every year.

5. What is the first song that comes to mind when you think "Hex, A Witch and Angel Tale"?

Snow Patrol ft. Martha Wainwright "Set The Fire To The Third Bar". To me, that song is perfect to describe the relationship between my main characters. A duet, but one in which, each voice carries quite distinctly on its own.

6. If your readers could come away from your book with one message, what would you hope that message to be?

That even the most peculiar of us can be happy.

7. Is there anything else you'd like to tell your readers?

Thank you so much for buying my book and for sending me your thoughts on it. Most of all, thank you for reading it.


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

And now, onto the giveaway! Ramona has generously offered TWO copies of her novel, Hex, A Witch and Angel Tale to my readers. To enter, please follow the link below to fill out the form. The Rules: This giveaway is US ONLY, and the giveaway ends at precisely at midnight EST on February 27th. You do NOT have to be a follower to enter, but it's greatly appreciated! I will notify winners by email the following day.

To enter, click HERE

Hex, A Witch and Angel Tale Review

Title: Hex, A Witch and Angel Tale
Author: Ramona Wray
Publisher: CreateSpace
Published: February 1, 2011
Genre: YA, Fantasy
Pages: 254
Source: Author

Like most girls at Rosemound High School, seventeen-year-old Lily Crane is acutely aware of Ryder Kingscott. Hands down the cutest guy in school, Ryder is cool, mysterious, and utterly untouchable…especially for Lily. 

For when she touches someone, Lily instantly learns all about their lives. And while such a skill might seem nifty, in truth it is wrecking Lily’s life. So she is shocked when Ryder asks her out — and even more shocked to discover he has a rival. 

Lucian Bell is the gorgeous new kid who can’t take his eyes off of Lily. Being pursued by two hotties should make a girl happy, but Lily is skeptical. The boys act as if they’ve met before, hating each other with a passion that could only be rooted in a dark, dangerous past. A past full of terrible secrets. The kind of secrets that could get a girl killed.

Lily is pretty much your everyday teenage girl, unless you take into account her incredible psychic abilities. With a single touch, Lily can learn everything about a person, including their entire past and present. This, unfortunately, leaves Lily crippled in the realm of a social life, so she pines over the handsome Ryder from a distance. When he asks her out one day though, Lily is floored, and even more so when she’s asked out by a second, equally good-looking guy, Lucian. But when Lily discovers the truth about her own past, she’s forced to confront the truth about these two cute boys, a dangerous hex, and a past life that continues to haunt her to this day.

I was expecting Hex, A Witch and Angel Tale to be cutesy, if I’m being honest. I think I was expecting fluff and fun, based purely on the cover (I’m not really a cartoon cover person), but I was certainly not expecting the depth of the story to be so rich. Hex, A Witch and Angel Tale is the third English book by author, Ramona Wray, a Romanian-born writer now living in Plymouth. Blending the fantastic stories from her youth with a fresh take on fantasy and paranormal in the YA genre, Ramona has created an adventure-filled whirlwind sure to keep you riveted to the very end.

While I’m not into the whole love-triangle shebang, Hex, A Witch and Angel Tale truly is a refreshing take on the age-old premise. Lily is an empowering protagonist despite her crippling gift, and both Lucian and Ryder had strong motives and great character-building. I loved how Hex, A Witch and Angel Tale carefully wove the past and present into an intricately woven web that was designed to determine all three characters’ futures. And yet, in the midst of a story of destiny, fate and curses, Hex, A Witch and Angel Tale shows Lily, Ryder and Lucian making choices to determine their own fate. Furthermore, the self-discovery within the story, was rich and powerful, fueling the strong premise.

Overall, I was really, really surprised by just how good and interesting Hex, A Witch and Angel Tale was. I definitely had a few questions lingering after it was done, but when done right, that leaves me with a lasting impression of a book. I give it a 4.5 out of 5, and I’d recommend it to all fans of YA, especially those who enjoy fantasy and paranormal stories, as well as a bit of romance.

I received this book free of charge from the author in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

In My Mailbox is an amazing weekly meme hosted by Kristi from The Story Siren that features the books we have received during the week. It's so much fun because we get to see what our fellow bloggers stumbled upon this week and add even more to our piles of books! Without further ado, this week I received the following books:

FOR REVIEW

Forsaken by Keary Taylor

(Thank you, Keary)

It's been four months since Alex gave everything to save Jessica. Life should be perfect; she has Alex, she's been freed of the nightmares, and most of all- she's alive. But some things have changed, some things haven't. That's the problem. Alex still hasn't asked "the question". Jessica can't see the reason why and it's tearing her apart. He's keeping something from her.

Alex isn't the only one who has changed though. Something is different about Jessica but she doesn't understand what's happened.

FOR REVIEW

Hex, A Witch & Angel Tale by Ramona Wray

(Thank you, Ramona)

Like most girls at Rosemound High School, seventeen-year-old Lily Crane is acutely aware of Ryder Kingscott. Hands down the cutest guy in school, Ryder is cool, mysterious, and utterly untouchable…especially for Lily. For when she touches someone, Lily instantly learns all about their lives. 

And while such a skill might seem nifty, in truth it is wrecking Lily’s life. So she is shocked when Ryder asks her out—and even more shocked to discover he has a rival. Lucian Bell is the gorgeous new kid who can’t take his eyes off of Lily. 

FOR REVIEW

Wither by Lauren DeStefano

(eARC - Thank you, S&S Galley Grab)

Thanks to modern science, every human being has become a ticking genetic time bomb—males only live to age twenty-five, and females only live to age twenty. In this bleak landscape, young girls are kidnapped and forced into polygamous marriages to keep the population from dying out. 

When sixteen-year-old Rhine Ellery is taken by the Gatherers to become a bride, she enters a world of wealth and privilege. Despite her husband Linden's genuine love for her, Rhine has one purpose: to escape.

FOR REVIEW

We'll Always Have Summer by Jenny Han

(eARC - Thank you, S&S Galley Grab)

It's been two years since Conrad told Belly to go with Jeremiah. She and Jeremiah have been inseparable ever since, even attending the same college-- only, their relationship hasn't exactly been the happily ever after Belly had hoped it would be. And when Jeremiah makes the worst mistake a boy can make, Belly is forced to question what she thought was true love. Does she really have a future with Jeremiah? Has she ever gotten over Conrad? It's time for Belly to decide, once and for all, who has her heart forever.

Title: The Pace
Author: Shelena Shorts
Publisher: Lands Atlantic Publishing
Published: August 19, 2009
Genre: YA, Sci-Fi, Fantasy
Pages: 302
Source: Personal Copy

Nineteen-year-old Weston has everything. He's super hot, mysterious, dangerous, sincere, and vulnerable. He’s also a one-of-a-kind evolution that will change the idea of immortality forever. Anyone would be drawn to him, even without fate's intervention, and when eighteen-year-old Sophie crashes into him, there's no turning back.

All that remains is figuring out who, or what, he is, and with a little perseverance, she'll find out the indelible truth—right along with a century-old secret...and a threat for which neither of them are prepared.

Intensely fascinating and rich with determination, The Pace brings together romance, mystery, and suspense in a compelling bond that will have readers asking for more.

Sophie knows that Weston has a secret. Somehow, he’s different from other boys his age, and she wants to know why. She’s new to California, and there’s something about Wes that resonates, and it’s something she’s drawn to discover. He’s attractive, yes, but there’s more. As Sophie gets to know Wes, she starts to realize that Wes doesn’t have a singular secret, but several. As Sophie discovers more about Wes, she grows closer to him, and a relationship begins to bloom, but the secrets might be too much to conquer. And time might be to twisted to keep their budding romance alive.

The Pace was completely and utterly refreshing in a sea of YA that is so formulaic. Usually, we get these “Boy meets girl. Boy and girl fall madly in love. Boy and girl can’t live without one another.” Blah. Yawn. The Pace, however, took your average YA formula, turned it on its end, added two dynamic and powerful characters, and threw science, destiny, love and time into a beautiful and haunting story. Author Shelena Shorts has redeemed your YA love story with a rich plot, endearing characters and a powerful message that stays with you.

Sophie was truly a fantastic character. I loved that she was strong and independent, and she wasn’t the least bit wishy-washy! Her voice was honest and had hints of vulnerability, but she never seemed weak – just approachable. Wes was your handsome YA male, but he had depth (thank the Lord!). He had this honest demeanor despite his secrets, and I loved watching the actual relationship between the two characters develop. Most of all though, time was a character, and single action in The Pace had a legitimate reaction. I could actually see the first events in the novel lead to the last, twirling the characters on this mysterious and tumultuous roller-coaster ride.

I am absolutely blown away by The Pace. I expected a pretty good read from the premise, but I didn’t expect it to be that good, and the ending just killed me. I can’t wait to read book two, The Broken Lake. I give The Pace a 4.5 out of 5 (the only deduction being the mildly average premise), and I’d recommend it to all fans of YA, especially those who enjoy fantasy and sci-fi.

The Friday Fix is a takeover of my Friday blog post by other bloggers who have volunteered their time and energy to "star" in their very own guest post on Friday. Only one mandatory rule (you can't get out of it!) - you must answer five of the most random questions I throw your way. The rest is up to you. Remember, if you'd like to be featured on the Friday Fix, send me an email, and let me know! So, without further ado, here are the Kristin from My Bookish Ways!

The Most Random Questions in the World...

1. Why do we sing about the London Bridge falling down if it's still standing?

A couple of really uplifting and fun theories surround what the song is about. Some think it refers to the difficulty of bridging the River Thames, but other theories include possible Viking attack, age and damage of the bridge, and my personal fave, child sacrifice. This pleasant theory states that children were buried alive in the foundation because it was believed that the bridge would collapse unless a human sacrifice was made. More happy facts about the song can be found HERE.

2. If Mars had earthquakes, would we have to call them Marsquakes?

Well, yeah, cause an article on space.com says so: Check it.

3. So many Americans choose Chinese letters as tattoos - do the Chinese choose English words for theirs?

I’m fairly sure they might consider that tacky…

4. Why does lemon juice contain artificial flavouring if lemon dish soap contains real lemons?

That’s one of those questions that we might never know the answer to. Believe me, I’ve lost sleep over it.

5. Can bald people get dandruff?

I’m so glad you asked! The answer is, in fact, yes! ‘Cause dandruff is all the nasty little dead skin cells that falls off of your dry, parched little scalp. No hair needed! So, moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. Or wear a hair net. I prefer to use a moisturizing shampoo, but that’s just me.


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

Kristin, thanks SO much for playing along and answering all my silly questions because, Lord knows, I have a ton of these! By the way, I love your answer to the dandruff question. I feel so knowledgeable now. As for the rest of you, be sure to check out Kristin's awesome blog, My Bookish Ways! 

Title: Across the Universe
Author: Beth Revis
Publisher: Razorbill
Published: January 11, 2011
Genre: YA, Dystopian, Sci-Fi
Pages: 398
Source: Personal Copy

A love out of time. A spaceship built of secrets and murder.

Seventeen-year-old Amy joins her parents as frozen cargo aboard the vast spaceship Godspeed and expects to awaken on a new planet, three hundred years in the future. Never could she have known that her frozen slumber would come to an end fifty years too soon and that she would be thrust into the brave new world of a spaceship that lives by its own rules.

Amy quickly realizes that her awakening was no mere computer malfunction. Someone-one of the few thousand inhabitants of the spaceship-tried to kill her. And if Amy doesn't do something soon, her parents will be next.

Now Amy must race to unlock Godspeed's hidden secrets. But out of her list of murder suspects, there's only one who matters: Elder, the future leader of the ship and the love she could never have seen coming.

Amy is just a mere piece of the puzzle and cargo on board the Godspeed, a ship of hundreds of people held in a cryostatic sleep until they reach a new planet for their new lives 300 years in the future. Something goes wrong though, and Amy wakes up, far earlier than she should have. It’s supposedly a computer malfunction, but it becomes apparent that someone was actually behind it. She wasn’t meant to live. She was supposed to die. Now Amy’s on a ship of thousands of inhabitants with a life or death mystery on her hands. Someone’s after her, and they might be after her next. Who can she trust, and how will she know she can trust them?

Across the Universe is one of those books that has been hyped from day one. I’ve heard SO much about it, and part of the reason I held off reading it was because I didn’t want it to fall short of the rave reviews. Beth Revis has created a gorgeous, haunting and oddly beautiful and terrifying world within Across the Universe. She has a flowing writing voice – easy to follow and fluid, taking you from event to event in a harrowing plot filled with twists and turns that kept me guessing the whole time.

While I definitely agree that the world within Across the Universe is incredible, weaving an amazing background into the forefront of the story, even though it’s in a future and somewhat sci-fi realm. I felt like I was onboard the Godspeed with Amy, and I loved that I could put myself in her shoes. She’s definitely a relatable character. I also really enjoyed the dual perspectives between Elder and Amy. It let me so the story from two angles, providing more depth and adding tension to the mystery. I also really appreciated a hint of humour that was added by Harley, adding a nice lighthearted touch. That said though, I guess I was expecting a little more romance in Across the Universe, and I felt that it was pretty flat in that department. I also felt a little unsatisfied with the end – in fact, I kind of felt hollow when it was done.

All in all, Across the Universe is a well-written debut with great characters and a plot that moves well – all of which temper the pretty significant flaws. I enjoyed it for the most part, and I give it a high 3.5 out of 5. I’d recommend Across the Universe to fans of YA, sci-fi and dystopian stories.

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event hosted by Jill from Breaking the Spine, and specifically spotlights upcoming novels we can't wait to read. As always, there are some amazing upcoming books, but this week I'm particularly excited for...

Title: Blood Red Road
Author: Moira Young
Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry
Published: June 7, 2011
Genre: YA, Dystopian
Pages: 448

Saba has spent her whole life in Silverlake, a dried-up wasteland ravaged by constant sandstorms. The Wrecker civilization has long been destroyed, leaving only landfills for Saba and her family to scavenge from. That's fine by her, as long as her beloved twin brother Lugh is around. But when a monster sandstorm arrives, along with four cloaked horsemen, Saba's world is shattered. Lugh is captured, and Saba embarks on an epic quest to get him back.

Suddenly thrown into the lawless, ugly reality of the world outside of desolate Silverlake, Saba is lost without Lugh to guide her. So perhaps the most surprising thing of all is what Saba learns about herself: she's a fierce fighter, an unbeatable survivor, and a cunning opponent. And she has the power to take down a corrupt society from the inside. Teamed up with a handsome daredevil named Jack and a gang of girl revolutionaries called the Free Hawks, Saba stages a showdown that will change the course of her own civilization.

Blood Red Road has a searing pace, a poetically minimal writing style, violent action, and an epic love story. Moira Young is one of the most promising and startling new voices in teen fiction.

Action? Check. Epic love? Check. Crazy/freaky dystopian world? Check. Haunting cover? Check check check! We all know I judge with my eyes first (it's a disease), but Blood Red Road seems to have a little bit everything that I love in YA literature, and it's right on track with my new dystopian obsession. This sounds a bit dangerous and exciting - both of which could very well lead to a fantastic read! What do you think, and what are you waiting on this week?

Talk to Me Tuesday is a brand new weekly meme where we will discuss anything (and everything) literary-related in an open forum of honesty. Questions for the next week will be posted one week prior to the post on the Features page. If you'd like to participate in this weekly feature, simply create your post, link back to me, and add your post to the wonderful Mr. Linky below. Have fun, and have at it!

This week's question: Who are your all-time favourite male and female characters?

Ahhh yes, the age-old question. A good friend asked me who my favourite all-time characters were, and it got me to thinking. See, the problem is that there are SO many characters in the genres I read that have characters that resonate on different levels, you know? I think it’s impossible and completely untrue for me to say that I have one true favourite for both male and female characters, but that said, I definitely have those that continue to stay with me long after I’ve finished a book or series, so I decided that I’d tell you my two (read: current) all-time favourites.

Sirius Black played such an important role in the Harry Potter series, though his role was far too fleeting for my liking. No, he’s not the youngest, or the hottest, or even the smartest, most likely, but there is something about his character that stays with me, no matter what book I pick up next. He’s an unlikely hero with a clouded past, but he resonates familial love, true courage and a depth of personality that doesn’t often appear for characters that don’t in a long series for a long period of time. No, he may not have played a role continuously through the series in terms of face-time, but his personality, spirit and heart remained long past his exit.

Annabeth from the Percy Jackson series wasn’t your typical female MC from the first second she entered the series. She’s strong and resourceful, she has no desire to be coddled in any way, shape or form, and she most certainly doesn’t want a boy to take care of her. She’s got this hardened exterior because of how she was raised, but inside, she’s just a teenage girl with the same angst as every teen. There are little hints of angst that appear now and again, but they’re peppered and punctuated by her sassy attitude and no-holds-barred demeanor. Most of all though, Annabeth doesn’t want to fit in. She’s special, and she will try her damndest to stand out.

Obviously, there are a ton of fantastic characters out there. To name just a few of my other favourites – Mr. Darcy from Pride & Prejudice, Hagrid from Harry Potter, Anna from My Sister's Keeper, Lloyd & Sam from The Long Weekend, Jo from Little Women and far too many others to name. So what about you? Do you have all-time favourite male & female characters?

Want to weigh in and do your own Talk to Me Tuesday post for this week? Go ahead and link up!

Title: The Liar Society
Author: Lisa & Laura Roecker
Publisher: Sourcebooks Fire
Published: March 1, 2011
Genre: YA, Contemps, Mystery
Pages: 361
Source: Publisher

Kate Lowry didn't think dead best friends could send e-mails. But when she gets an e-mail from Grace, she’s not so sure.

To: KateLowry@pemberlybrown.edu

Sent: Sun 9/14 11:59 PM

From: GraceLee@pemberlybrown.edu

Subject: (no subject)

Kate,

I'm here…

sort of.

Find Cameron.

He knows.

I shouldn't be writing.

Don't tell.

They'll hurt you.

Now Kate has no choice but to prove once and for all that Grace’s death was more than just a tragic accident. But secrets haunt the halls of her elite private school. Secrets people will do anything to protect. Even if it means getting rid of the girl trying to solve a murder...

The Liar Society follow Kate Lowry, living in a prestigious boarding school in the aftermath of her best friend Grace’s death. Kate is confused and lost, wondering what could possibly have turned life so horribly upside down when she receives an email from Grace, saying that she needs Kate to figure out what happened to her – and to be careful. Up until now, Kate was certain that dead girls didn’t send emails, but now Kate has the chance to prove that Grace’s death was more than the accident it seemed. Teaming up with the cute and nerdy neighbor, Seth, and the ultimate bad boy at school, Liam, Kate is determined to find the truth once and for all.

I’ve been stalking reading Lisa and Laura Roecker’s blog forever, and when I say forever, I mean since the day I started my blog. Literally. Debut authors, Lisa and Laura are a sister duo, self-described as “The Hilton sisters – spray tans + brains – 4 inches + 20 (ok, 30) pounds / Cleveland, OH.” Seriously witty and original, the sisters have created a mystery story in The Liar Society that’s equal parts adventure, mystery and intrigue. Throw a little pinch of oh-so-cute romance into the mix, and The Liar Society is, essentially the epitome of a slam-dunk debut.

The Liar Society presents one of the most likeable heroines I’ve ever read. Kate has these hilarious one-liners that are so fresh and fantastic that I want to slap myself for ever having read books with whiny little female MCs. Kate, Liam and Seth perfectly complement one another and add a dynamic of intrigue and fun to their already-developed personalities. Furthermore, I am pleased to say that, though set in a boarding school, The Liar Society is NOT rife with your stereotypical mean girls/rich students with all their baggage. Rather, the mystery fuels the plot, and the flashbacks that let us experience the friendship between Kate and Grace give us even more depth. You know what? Kate is like Veronica Mars – full of snark and sass, but with a mushy marshmallow interior hiding beneath her resilient personality.

I am going to sing the praises of The Liar Society from here until the sequel, so help me God. A twist between Nancy Drew and Veronica Mars, The Liar Society is fresh and fabulous, leaving us hanging just a little with an ending I truly did not expect. I give it a 5 out of 5, and I want the sequel. Now. I would recommend this books to all YA fans, especially those who like mysteries and contemporary fiction.

I received this book free of charge from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This, in no way, affected my opinion or review of this book.

Happy (Anti)Valentine's Day!

Happy (Anti)Valentine’s Day, my friends! I know a lot of you (Ginger) love this pesky little holiday, but I’ve truly never been a fan. Ever. So, in honour of my supreme dislike of this holiday, I decided I would do my very own UnValentine’s Day post for you all. Today, I’ve decided to talk about those characters in YA that you can’t help but love to hate. No matter how hard you try, you just want to pull your hair out and punch these characters in the face for their idiocy. So, without further ado, let me introduce to you the ultimate characters I LOVE to hate in literature (for various reasons).

Bella Swan. You silly, son of a B. You whine, and moan, and cry about everything. You break easily. You can’t make up your own mind unless someone makes it up for you first and, frankly, you’re as wishy-washy as they come. You cry in the woods like a baby when your glittery boyfriend breaks up with you to save your life. You decide to sacrifice yourself to save someone that’s immortal (redundant much?) You are everything that girls should NOT be. Way to not be empowering at all and convince all little girls to believe there is a glittery undead man out there for them, too.

Voldemort, you're a tricky b*tch. You tried, and failed to kill a baby? Yes, LOVE protected him, but you being the badass you claim to be really should have known better. That's a pretty huge fail on your part, dude. Then, you go after immortality after the whole "rawr! must kill baby!" thing, and you end up looking like a snake? Where's the plus in that? Minions will bow at your feet, yes, but we're all secretly dry-heaving.

Sauron, you're a big eye. Need I really say more? First of all, you kill little hobbits. Second, you really, really want this lil' gold ring that will make you super duper powerful. Good God, man. Go buy a ring, say it makes you powerful because everyone's scared of you already and they'll believe you, and then get some Visine. Your bloodshot eye is creeping me out.

And the runners up are as follows:

Patch from Crescendo - Thank you for losing every redeeming quality you had in book one to become a truly inconsequential douche in book two. How utterly refreshing.

Bridget from Here Lies Bridget - You should be on The Real Housewives of wherever you live. You would fit in perfectly with your divatude. 

Edward from Twilight - Please. Comb. Your. Hair. Also, please stop sparkling, and go easy on the pasty foundation. You look like a corpse...oh wait...

Quincie from Tantalize - Wait. Who? Guess I don't remember her at all. Oopsies.

As a quick closing note to cover my butt because we book bloggers seem to need to do so these days. These are my very own personal opinions and, frankly, some of these books are absolutely favourites of mine, so please don't take offense to my humble witticisms here.

So tell me, my (Anti)Valentines, which characters do you absolutely love to hate?

In My Mailbox is an amazing weekly meme hosted by Kristi from The Story Siren that features the books we have received during the week. It's so much fun because we get to see what our fellow bloggers stumbled upon this week and add even more to our piles of books! Without further ado, this week I received the following books:

FOR REVIEW

The Liar Society by Lisa & Laura Roecker

(ARC) - (Thank you, Sourcebooks Fire)

Kate Lowry didn't think dead best friends could send e-mails. But when she gets an e-mail from Grace, she’s not so sure.

To: KateLowry@pemberlybrown.edu

Sent: Sun 9/14 11:59 PM

From: GraceLee@pemberlybrown.edu

Subject: (no subject)

Kate,

I'm here…sort of. Find Cameron. He knows. I shouldn't be writing. Don't tell. They'll hurt you.

FOR REVIEW

Griffin Rising by Darby Karchut

(ARC) - (Thank you, Darby)

For centuries, rumors have abounded of a lowly caste of supernatural beings known as the Terrae Angeli. Armed with the power to control Earth, Fire, Wind and Water, these warriors secretly serve as guardians for mortals in danger.

But for one young angel-in-training, Griffin, life is hell as a cruel master makes his apprenticeship a nightmare. On the verge of failing, a new mentor, Basil, enters his life and changes it forever. It is their father-and-son relationship, sometimes turbulent, often hilarious, always affectionate, that sings through the story like a pure note.

EARNED FROM RANDOMBUZZERS

The Nightmarys by Dan Poblocki

Timothy July is having nightmares. About his brother, who is in a coma after being wounded in Iraq; about his best friend, Stuart, who is behaving like a jerk; about the old biology specimens in jars lining the walls of his classroom; and about Abigail, the new girl who seems to be a magnet for trouble. Or perhaps she is the cause.

Suddenly Timothy’s nightmares are coming true. His brother, his face decaying, approaches Timothy on the street. Stuart ends up in the hospital, terrified that monsters are stalking him. And the specimen jars are tormenting not only Timothy but his teacher as well.

I'm pretty pleased with my week in books! Three is a good number for me, and I'm loving the variety...pretty rad, eh? As a quick aside, please take note of this post, in which I'm desperately seeking about 10 weeks worth of guest bloggers (because you're all dang awesome), and I'll be MIA for awhile. Anyhoo...leave me a link to your mailboxes, and I'll be sure to check them out!