Title: Unraveling
Author: Elizabeth Norris
Publisher: Balzer & Bray
Publish Date: April 24, 2012
Genre: YA, Sci-Fi
Pages: 445
Source: Personal Copy

Two days before the start of her junior year, seventeen-year-old Janelle Tenner is hit by a pickup truck and killed—as in blinding light, scenes of her life flashing before her, and then nothing. Except the next thing she knows, she's opening her eyes to find Ben Michaels, a loner from her high school whom Janelle has never talked to, leaning over her. And even though it isn't possible, she knows—with every fiber of her being—that Ben has somehow brought her back to life.

But her revival, and Ben's possible role in it, is only the first of the puzzles that Janelle must solve. While snooping in her FBI agent father's files for clues about her accident, she uncovers a clock that seems to be counting down to something—but to what? And when someone close to Janelle is killed, she can no longer deny what's right in front of her: Everything that's happened—the accident, the murder, the countdown clock, Ben's sudden appearance in her life—points to the end of life as she knows it. And as the clock ticks down, she realizes that if she wants to put a stop to the end of the world, she's going to need to uncover Ben's secrets—and keep from falling in love with him in the process.

Janelle is your average, everyday 17-year-old with all the fixings of a perfect life. She has a great family, a good job and a boyfriend that is, by all accounts, super cute. However, Janelle also has a father in the FBI, and her snooping little hands can’t help but search through his files every now and again. When she discovers that a mystery event is going to take place in just 24 hours, Janelle sets actions in motion without even knowing it. It also sets her on a collision course for a whirlwind that includes death, revival and some sort endgame master plan that might just involve Janelle, her father…and the entire world.

I don’t know why, but while I enjoy action films, action books are usually really not my cup of tea. I find them to be a bit trite, at times and, frankly, they often feel a bit tired and redundant halfway through. Needless to say (after that disclaimer), author Elizabeth Norris had her work cut out for her when trying to entertain me with her debut novel, Unraveling. With careful sleight of hand, slippery words and a plot that weaves and folds you into its tumultuous embrace, this novel is part mystery, part science-fiction and all action as it renders you powerless in its grip.

Despite, or perhaps in spite of all the glowing reviews, Unraveling had me a bit concerned when I started it. I hate when hype is splashed around because I’m always worried that a story isn’t going to live up for me, and I hate being the one blogger that doesn’t like something. Well, I’m pleased to say I sure breathed one heck of a sigh of relief when I read this one because it was so much more than I expected. The novel starts with a bang – no pretenses or falsities. We meet Janelle, we watch her demise and we see as the entire plot is set in motion barely a few pages in. One singular event plays out like a veritable Pandora’s Box as the story arcs and characters are spun into an intricate maze and web. Part of the beauty of Unraveling lies within the fact that we’re given a family that is, for all intents and purposes, extremely normal. Janelle’s father lives and breathes his job, her mother is emotionally absent and her little brother is just like any other little brother. The fact that her home life and school life were so normal perfectly balanced the sci-fi-esque events that fueled the plot. I enjoyed watching Janelle and Ben’s relationship slowly bloom over time – something that is often rushed, and it helped move the story along, as well. Perhaps the biggest strength of the novel lies in the fact that, despite how big and all-encompassing this master plan was, it had deliberate and powerful effects on the characters that mattered most to us. I will, however, say that at times I felt the wording of Unraveling was a bit repetitive and redundant, and I wish that some of the secondary characters stood out more. Despite a few little hiccups though, Unraveling was riveting.

I love when books live up to the hype, and I love it even more when bloggers and readers fuel that hype. I’m so glad that Unraveling embodied its name as it slowly, deliberately hooked me as the plot unraveled. I give it a 4 out of 5, and I highly recommend it to all fans of YA, especially those who enjoy science-fiction, action and adventure.

Help #TeamAmity One More Time

Guys, it's almost time! Insurgent by Veronica Roth releases TOMORROW from HarperTeen! I can't tell you how much I (and the rest of #TeamAmity) appreciate your hard work and dedication to getting our team and our links out there...but it's time for one final push! If you get a chance sometime today, please click the #TeamAmity links, or just click on the image below.

Also, our team leader, Divergent Lexicon, is featuring our awesome #TeamAmity playlist! Check it out, and let us know what your favourite songs are.

AND if you haven't already, you have until midnight tonight to enter to win an ARC of Insurgent from yours truly! 

Good luck, and go #TeamAmity!

Let's Talk is a new weekly feature here at i swim for oceans. I think it's important that we all have our say, and there's something to be said for raising our voices. Simply put, here on the little old blog, I like to host some of my very own discussion posts because, well, I like to converse with you all.

And so, Let's Talk will feature questions or prompts, which I will answer, too. Love it or hate it, weigh in or don't, it's my hope that Let's Talk will at least get you thinking...and maybe even get you discussing with the rest of us!

Question: What ONE underrated book book do you want to share with the blogosphere - new or old?

Sometimes I stump myself with my own questions, guys. Seriously. I'm cruel even to myself! There are so many underrated books that I've read since starting blogging that I'm still blown away by and wish more people had read. That said, there are a ton of books I read even before I started blogging that I wish the blogging community knew, too. Some of those books remain my favourites today, and you probably hear me touting them all the time.  One such book is Many Waters by Madeleine L'Engle. I wish I could say it had the world's prettiest cover, but it doesn't. It's what you'll find in the pages though, that really counts.

Sandy and Dennys have always been the normal, run-of-the-mill ones in the extraodinary Murry family. They garden, make an occasional A in school, and play baseball. Nothing especially interesting has happened to the twins until they accidentally interrupt their father's experiment.

Then the two boys are thrown across time and space. They find themselves alone in the desert, where, if they believe in unicorns, they can find unicorns, and whether they believe or not, mammoths and manticores will find them. The boys find they have more to do in the oasis than simply getting themselves home--they have to reunite an estranged father and son, but it won't be easy, especially when the son is named Noah and he's about to start building a boat in the desert.

Regardless of whether you're religious or not, this take on Noah's Ark is one you've never heard. It's fantasy, it's paranormal and it's utterly beautiful. You're enmeshed in a battle of light and dark angels, humans and an unknown god named El. There are touches of romance, and it's a sweet, soaring story line that is, at times, heartbreaking and, at other times, intense a riveting. The end is beautiful and triumphant, packaging this fourth installment of the Time series in a neat bow.

And yet, for some reason, this book remains probably the least known of the series. I don't know if it's the face that it revolves around the twins or the Biblical context, but it seems rarely read by bloggers that I've met. Honestly, the Biblical details are there, but it's not a religious book. It is, however, immensely powerful, and I've read my copy so many times that the cover fell off...so I bought a few more. If I could just offer bloggers one piece of advice...try Many Waters! You might very well LOVE it!

Title: Sweet Evil
Author: Wendy Higgins
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publish Date: May 1, 2012
Genre: YA, Paranormal
Pages: 464
Source: Publisher

Tenderhearted Southern girl, Anna Whitt, was born with the sixth sense to see and feel emotions of other people. She’s aware of a struggle within herself, an inexplicable pull toward danger, but it isn’t until she turns sixteen and meets the alluring Kaidan Rowe that she discovers her terrifying heritage, and her will-power is put to the test. He’s the boy your daddy warned you about. If only someone had warned Anna.

A cross-country trip to meet her father forces Anna to face the reality that hope and love are not options for her kind. When she confronts her destiny, will Anna embrace her halo or her horns?

Anna is strong, determined and fearless, but like everyone, she has a past – whether her own, or her destiny – that seeks to bring out her true nature every day of her life. Yet, she’s managed to control it her whole life. Anna can sense people’s emotions, their auras and she sees their true colours…literally. Darkness lurks everywhere though, and it’s only a matter of time before it catches up with her. When Kaiden enters the picture, gorgeous, alluring and oh-so insidious Kaiden, she’s nearly powerless to his charm. The truth is about to come out, and Anna has to figure out which side she is on before it’s too late.

I have a confession to make, guys. Sweet Evil by Wendy Higgins is a novel that latches onto and utilizes pretty much every element of YA paranormal that I hate, and yet, for some reason, it was utterly captivating. From start to finish, the novel is rich, alluring and sweetly sexy, lending a tension-filled tone to each and every page. Rather than spinning a tired tale from the age-old angel and demon storyline, Sweet Evil tackles the Nephilim, spinning the reader into a whirlwind of action, rage and an epic plot. With perfectly balanced characters and a haunting and nearly melodic tone, Sweet Evil will take your breath away.

There were so many incredible strengths to Sweet Evil that I hardly know where to being. It’s a first for me; I’ll tell you that much. Anna was such a brilliant character. There was a sweet vulnerability to her, but it was never misconstrued as weakness or lack of character. Rather, it was her heart that sang through, giving her strength of both mind and will. I felt drawn to her because she was so subtly charismatic, and despite the fact that this is, indeed, another paranormal tale, she was tangible. Kaiden, was her perfect complement. Naturally, he just oozes darkness and boy-boy character, but he somehow does so without becoming the riddled cliché that’s obsolete. His darkness and blatant disregard for rules was perfectly juxtapositioned with her personality so the two balanced and offset one another, adding another layer of depth and intrigue. Plus, the first that burns between them is equal parts engaging and dark, making you just wonder…maybe because that sexual tension was just so dang strong. These fallen angels amp it up a notch, kicking Sweet Evil into the next gear and letting it embody it’s title because it’s oh-so-sweet but Lord, is it deadly. With characters to die for and an ending that should be outlawed because it was so dang brutally awesome and crazy, you’ll be dying for the next installment. Like yesterday.

Honestly, I was just floored by Sweet Evil. It was everything I thought I’d hate, but it was so well done, that’s one of my favourites for 2012. I give it a 5 out of 5, and I highly recommend it to all fans of YA, especially those who enjoy paranormal, paranormal romance and fallen angels.

I received this book 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: Auracle
Author: Gina Rosati
Publisher: Roaring Book Press
Publish Date: August 7, 2012
Genre: YA, Paranormal
Pages: 304

16 year old Anna Rogan has a secret she's only shared with her best friend, Rei; she can astrally project out of her body, allowing her spirit to explore the world and the far reaches of the universe.

When there's a fatal accident and her classmate Taylor takes over Anna's body, what was an exhilarating distraction from her repressive home life threatens to become a permanent state. Faced with a future trapped in another dimension, Anna turns to Rei for help. Now the two of them must find a way to get Anna back into her body and stop Taylor from accusing an innocent friend of murder. Together Anna and Rei form a plan but it doesn't take into account the deeper feelings that are beginning to grow between them.

Ok, first of all...that cover. Holy gorgeous. I know, I know. I'm like a broken record, but DANG! That's one pretty cover! Second of all, Auracle sounds like a really intriguing read. There's something about astral projection that totally fascinates me. I blame it on Charmed. In all seriousness though, it seems like this one could be just dark enough to intrigue me...and have just enough romance to kick me while I'm down! I can't wait. What do you think, and what are you waiting on this week?

Top Ten Tuesday is an original feature/weekly meme created by The Broke and the Bookish. The feature was created because they are particularly fond of lists over at The Broke and the Bookish. They'd love to share their lists with other bookish folks and would LOVE to see your top ten lists!

Each week they will post a new top ten list that one of our bloggers at The Broke and the Bookish will answer. Everyone is welcome to join. All they ask is that you link back to The Broke and the Bookish on your own Top Ten Tuesday post AND add your name to the Linky widget so that everyone can check out other bloggers lists! If you don't have a blog, just post your answers as a comment. Have fun with it! It's a fun way to get to know your fellow bloggers.

Top Ten All Time Favourite YA Characters:

1. Sirius Black from Harry Potter - Not too many people will understand/comprehend the magnitude of my love for this character. I was so intrigued by him, found hope in him and was absolutely devastated when we no longer had him in the story. He's probably my all-time favourite.

2. Cinna from The Hunger Games - If you don't know Cinna, you clearly haven't read the books. He makes the entire series for me. Truly. There's something about him that is so genuine and true in a sea of falsities that makes you turn to him throughout.

3. Arya from Game of Thrones - If you've watched the show, or you've read the books as I have, you'll probably understand why this little firecracker is one of my all-time favourite characters. She is so feisty, and she has a take-no-prisoners attitude that is incredible fun.

4. Mr. Darcy from Pride & Prejudice - Let's be honest...what girl doesn't love Darcy? I think I've loved this man since the first time I read the book, and my one-sided love affair continues ardently to this day. It's a shame really, because no man can ever really measure up (sorry!)

5. Mara from The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer - Mara is a little bit twisted and quirky. Ok, quirky is too weak. Mara is a touch psychotic, and I'm pretty sure there's something loose in her head, but she is too entertaining, and her story enthralls me.

6. Martin from Martin the Warrior - Yes, I know he's a mouse. If you haven't read the Redwall series, you most likely simply won't understand. The animals seem so very human in the books that you forget they're animals...and Martin is every bit the hero.

7. Dobby from Harry Potter - I don't care what you say...he likely stole the scenes in both the films and the books. He may have just been a little a house elf, but he had a heart of gold, and he was one of the biggest parts of the whole series for me.

8. Fred & George from Harry Potter - These twins are awesome. Ok, the entire family is kooky and awesome, but they quite often steal the show. Their humour, their charm and, heck, their endless bravery makes them standout characters. They still break my heart, too.

9. Ian O'Shea from The Host - Le sigh. Ok, for those wondering, yes, that is really the guy playing him in the film (which I'm scared won't live up). Ian was this dead-sexy, super macho and utterly gorgeous character that I can't get enough of. I might hate her vampire books, but Ms. Meyer got me with aliens.

10. Emma Mercer from The Lying Game - I know, this one surprises a lot of people. Emma is such a great character though. While her twin sister is this conceited, heinous girl, Emma is down-to-earth, quirky and believable. I'm shocked to say I love this book series so much.

Title: Social Suicide
Author: Gemma Halliday
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publish Date: April 24, 2012
Genre: YA, Mystery
Pages: 272
Source: Publisher

Twittercide [twit-er-sahyd]: the killing of one human being by another while the victim is in the act of tweeting.

Call me crazy, but I figured writing for the Herbert Hoover High Homepage would be a pretty sweet gig. Pad the resume for college applications, get a first look at the gossip column, spend some time ogling the paper’s brooding bad-boy editor, Chase Erikson. But on my first big story, things went... a little south. What should have been a normal interview with Sydney Sanders turned into me discovering the Homecoming Queen-hopeful dead in her pool. Electrocuted while Tweeting. Now, in addition to developing a reputation as HHH’s resident body finder, I’m stuck trying to prove that Sydney’s death wasn’t suicide.

I’m starting to long for the days when my biggest worry was whether the cafeteria was serving pizza sticks or Tuesday Tacos...

Hartley is back with a mystery more dastardly than ever, and she’s going to need to draw on all of her media-savvy, her wits and her crime-solving prowess to solve this one. Law enforcement is convinced that Sydney Sanders’ death was accidental, but Hartley’s not so sure. Lurking in the corners of her mind, Hartley has an idea what might have happened, and she’s determined to uncover it at all costs. But Hartley’s got more on her hands than ever before. She’s working for the paper, keeping up with school and then there’s Chase, who might be exactly what she wished for, in all his bad-boy glory.

Social Suicide is the much-anticipated sequel of author Gemma Halliday’s debut novel, Deadly Cool. Running in the same vein as its predecessor, we’re given a quirky heroine with all the flaws and faults of friends we might find in real life, giving us a realistic take on a crazy murder-mystery ride. Unlike most murder mysteries though, this series has a way of turning them into uproariously hilarious tales that are cringe-worthy, biting and just a touch snarky to whet your appetite for a fun and entertaining read. Heck, if I was murdered, I’d want Hartley on my case.

I remember how completely blown away I was when I read book one. It was witty, didn’t take itself too seriously and it had this protagonist that just had me laughing the entire time. With Social Suicide, we are treated to Hartley’s antics, yet again, and I have to say it’s no less of a treat than before. Her offbeat character voice and subtly ironic humour really complements the layered mystery that, while serious in nature, is still engrossing and entertaining to become involved in. Unlike the first installment, we have a new hint of romance this time around, and it’s every bit as fun and flirtatious as the mystery, itself. Hartley and Chase have an incredibly fun and offbeat romance that truly adds a layer of sweetness to Social Suicide. Hartley’s confusion regarding Chase’s inability to commit to one viewpoint on a relationship was honest and charming, and I’m sure plenty of teen girls can relate. The true strength of Social Suicide lies within the awkward humour that, at times, feels like a nail-biter, but at other times has you wheezing with laughter. Above all else, Hartley’s not the best mystery-buster, but her attempts make us laugh without fail. Just like before, Social Suicide is a teen read, quick and painless – offering you fun without any strings attached. It’s almost like a take it or leave it approach.

Overall, though I think book one was stronger and funnier than Social Suicide, this was still an entertaining and fast-paced sequel – one you can easily finish in a single evening. I give it a 3.5 out of 5, and I highly recommend it to all fans of YA, especially those who enjoy mysteries, touches of romance and humour.

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.

Faction Before Blood: Team Amity

We're just over a week away from Insurgent by Veronica Roth, kiddies! Can you believe it?!

Have you read the most recent teaser from Insurgent? If not...it's just a little something to drive you wild for the next week or so ;)

“The gun goes off. I fall.”

And there you have it. Enjoy! These teasers are killers, aren't they?! Soon though, kids, soon!

Until then, Choose #TeamAmity! Click on the link below to support a team that Four thinks is beautiful!

Let's Talk is a new weekly feature here at i swim for oceans. I think it's important that we all have our say, and there's something to be said for raising our voices. Simply put, here on the little old blog, I like to host some of my very own discussion posts because, well, I like to converse with you all.

And so, Let's Talk will feature questions or prompts, which I will answer, too. Love it or hate it, weigh in or don't, it's my hope that Let's Talk will at least get you thinking...and maybe even get you discussing with the rest of us!

Question: What books have you read because of the recommendations of book bloggers?

Let's be honest, kids. We've all heard (probably more than once, too) that bloggers don't sell books. I adamantly, vehemently disagree. There are so many books that I've read simply based on the excessive reviews and recommendations of other bloggers. I trust what book bloggers have to say because, for the most part, they provide thoughtful, insightful reviews that give me a taste of what a book will do for me. That is so much better than going to a book store and standing in front of the shelves blankly for hours trying simply to go off summaries.

Now, there are far too many books to list them all, but I figured I'd go ahead and tell you my top five. Bear in mind, please, that these are books I would never have otherwise read. I tend to be rather close-minded when it comes to books. It's one of my greatest faults. However, I've come to realize that if I let other bloggers into my head, they my book horizons expand, and that's truly incomparable. Here are my top three:

Contemporary has never been my thing. I used to shout that from the rooftops (or just all over my blog), but this one challenge those preconceived notions of mine that I continue to cling to. Raw Blue is a testament to YA contemporary fiction, embodying its title and breathing new life into a tired and, so sue me, otherwise often petty genre. 

I've since told pretty much every book blogger, reader and person that I know that this is a book, and an author, to watch. With a gritty writing style and true, honest emotion, I was just completely blown away.

After reading and suffering through the entire saga of another vampire series that shall not be named on this blog, I swore up and down I would never read about vampires again. I believe it was the constant insisting of book bloggers across the board that finally convinced me to pick up Vampire Academy and give it a go.

Just by doing so, I was able to see why bloggers and lay-readers, alike, love the series so much. It's about vampires, of course, but it's gritty and challenges the boundaries of YA.

I was way late to the game with this series, I'm ashamed to say. I consistently saw them on those special tables at Barnes & Noble, but I consistently walked past them because I thought they looked like Harry Potter castoffs, and I was still in mourning at Harry Potter being complete. 

When I finally did read The Lightning Thief though, I was hooked. I've read all of the books multiple times, I share them with everyone I know and I'm proud to say I've read them all in under a day each. And despite what any stupid idiots in the media might say about adults being stupid to read YA/MG books...I'm proud to carry this series in public! HA!

Title: Belles
Author: Jen Calonita
Publisher: Poppy
Publish Date: April 10, 2012
Genre: YA, Contemporary
Pages: 356
Source: Publisher

Fifteen-year-old Isabelle Scott loves her life by the boardwalk on the supposed wrong side of the tracks in North Carolina. But when tragedy strikes, a social worker sends her to live with a long-lost uncle and his preppy privileged family.

Isabelle is taken away from everything she’s ever known, and, unfortunately, inserting her into the glamorous lifestyle of Emerald Cove doesn’t go so well. Her cousin Mirabelle Monroe isn’t thrilled to share her life with an outsider, and, in addition to dealing with all the rumors and backstabbing that lurk beneath their classmates’ Southern charm, a secret is unfolding that will change both girls’ lives forever.

Izzie’s life has been far from easy. She’s had to care for her grandmother for a long time, and she bears a burden far greater than girls her age should carry. Nevertheless, life is a far cry from what she’s about to be plunged into. When a social worker sends her to live with a well-to-do distant relative, Lizzie’s world is turned upside down…in the best possible way. When Izzie’s world becomes one of wealth and prestige, a private school and a glamorous home life with a glitzy cousin, Mira though, it might be a bit too much for her. Can she hack it in this new world, or will her place remain in her roots?

In a world where a lot of YA novels take themselves far too seriously and dark/depressing is the new happy, Belles by Jen Calonita takes a new high ground. Funny and sweet, endearing and unapologetic, this drama and tension-filled story takes a simpler approach to the young adult world. It’s a rags-to-riches sort of tale that takes the immediate clichéd notions and spins them into something for more entertaining. Think – Cinderella meets She’s the Man. Peppered with seriousness but alive with lighthearted, feel-good humour and storytelling, Belles is a real treat.

Guys, there are so many things about Belles that I should have hated simply based on my preconceived notions, my qualms with melodrama and more. However, there was something about the story that was just so charming that I found myself completely engulfed in the story. Izzie was a delightful MC. She was honest and true, and I found that her character had a starkness about her that bolstered her internal strength. Mira was carefully crafted as her antithesis. She was very much a follower, and her personality was very weak. Having been raised in a wealthy household, Mira doesn’t truly think for herself, and I found her to be a bit off-putting, which was actually effective because it made me like Izzie even more. Told in alternating perspectives, Belles featured smooth, seamless transitions, though I’ll say I far preferred Izzie’s chapters to Mira’s. Best of all, however, was the fact that the novel was genuine and heartfelt. With just enough drama and touches of romance, Belles whetted my appetite for a sweet read that wasn’t too heavy and wasn’t too boring.

Overall, I was surprised that I really enjoyed Belles. Usually not my cup of tea, it definitely bested my misconceptions. I give it a 4 out of 5, and I highly recommend it to all fans of YA, especially those who enjoy contemporary fiction with lighthearted romance.

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: Blind Spot
Author: Laura Ellen
Publisher: Harcourt Children's
Publish Date: October 23, 2012
Genre: YA, Contemporary, Mystery
Pages: 356

There’s none so blind as they that won’t see.

Seventeen-year-old Tricia Farni’s body floated to the surface of Alaska’s Birch River six months after the night she disappeared. The night Roz Hart had a fight with her. The night Roz can’t remember. Roz, who struggles with macular degeneration, is used to assembling fragments to make sense of the world around her.

But this time it’s her memory that needs piecing together—to clear her name . . . to find a murderer. This unflinchingly emotional novel is written in the powerful first-person voice of a legally blind teen who just wants to be like everyone else.

Guys, you know me...I just can't resist a gorgeous cover. There's something so hauntingly beautiful about dark, eerie colours and eyes. I'm crazy. I know. Despite all that though, I really think that the premise of Blind Spot is original and engaging and, perhaps, just a wee bit disturbing. Does it really get any better than that? Now that contemporaries aren't disappointing me as much these days, I'm really excited to get my hands on this! What do you think, and what are you waiting on this week?

Top Ten Tuesday is an original feature/weekly meme created by The Broke and the Bookish. The feature was created because they are particularly fond of lists over at The Broke and the Bookish. They'd love to share their lists with other bookish folks and would LOVE to see your top ten lists!

Each week they will post a new top ten list that one of our bloggers at The Broke and the Bookish will answer. Everyone is welcome to join. All they ask is that you link back to The Broke and the Bookish on your own Top Ten Tuesday post AND add your name to the Linky widget so that everyone can check out other bloggers lists! If you don't have a blog, just post your answers as a comment. Have fun with it! It's a fun way to get to know your fellow bloggers.

Top Ten Tips for New Book Bloggers:

1. Establish Your Blog Voice – You probably already know that there are hundreds (if not thousands) of book blogs out there. Like it or not, those blogs are all competing for a pretty similar audience. This means that you, your blog and your voice need to somehow stand out from the rest as unique. For me, my blog voice is just me, myself and I. For others, they adopt a personality. It’s entirely your choice! Have fun with it.

2. Pick Your Genre – I think it’s great when blogs can be completely cross-genre and encompass both adult and YA books. I’ve found, over time, that just being a simple YA blog works for me. This way, I can keep my reviews streamlined, and I don’t confuse publishers when they request reviews. There are niche blogs and there are more broad-based blogs. Pick what works for you.

3. Choose a Rating System – Your rating system is your way of separating the books that work for you from the books that don’t. I’ve seen some bloggers out there that don’t post negative reviews, which is fine, but for me, I decided that if I didn’t post what didn’t work for me, I wouldn’t be able to show what did work! I went with a simple 5-star system because it’s pretty much universal, but have fun with it…make it your own.

4. Ask for Help – Trust me…there is absolutely no shame in asking other bloggers for help! I remember when I first started blogging, and I had no clue what to do. If it hadn’t been for awesome bloggers offering up their expertise, I probably would have quit two years ago. We all have to start somewhere.

5. Don’t Overwhelm Yourself – It’s great to start your blog off with a bang, but remember that slow and steady wins the race. If you do too many posts too fast, you could well find yourself overwhelmed and burned out. I’ve had my fair share of hiatuses because of that, but there have also been times where I considered ending the blog. Give yourself a break, and take your time.

6. Be Yourself – It is a good idea to see what other blogs do, what works for them and whatnot, but it is NOT a good idea to replicate them. If you aren’t original, bloggers have no reason to follow you as opposed to the other blogger. It is your voice, your personality and your take that is going to build an audience.

7. Don’t Get Discouraged – There are always going to be bigger and better blogs, kiddos. There just are. Are there days when I get bummed? Of course! It’s natural. However, don’t fool yourself into thinking that your small blog is any less than the big blogs. Give it time. It will grow.

8. Be Relevant – If you’ve declared your blog a YA blog, then by all means remain a YA blog. If you’ve decided you’re an adult blog, leave it that way. Don’t cloud the message or the agenda of your blog with ambiguities. People want to know what they are going to find when they visit your blog. If you confuse them, they probably won’t continue to follow you.

9. Use Social Media – This one is huge, and this isn’t just because I’m biased (I’m a social media strategist by day). If you expect to grow your blog without the aid of Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Goodreads, Pinterest and more, you’ll find it taking a lot longer than you might want. These free mediums are your friends. Don’t be afraid to publicize your blog!

10. Have Fun – This is probably the one that I just can’t tout enough. Guys, if you’re not having fun, it’s most likely not worth it. I don’t do this as a job, and I certainly don’t get paid for it. I do, however, love blogging and love my bloggy friends. Enjoy what you’re doing. People will tell if you don’t, and they won’t be as inspired by your posts. Don’t take it too seriously…just have a blast!

Title: Purity
Author: Jackson Pearce
Publisher: Little, Brown BYR
Publish Date: April 24, 2012
Genre: YA, Contemporary
Pages: 224
Source: Publisher

Before her mother died, Shelby promised three things: to listen to her father, to love as much as possible, and to live without restraint. Those Promises become harder to keep when Shelby's father joins the planning committee for the Princess Ball, an annual dance that ends with a ceremonial vow to live pure lives -- in other words, no "bad behavior," no breaking the rules, and definitely no sex.

Torn between Promises One and Three, Shelby makes a decision -- to exploit a loophole and lose her virginity before taking the vow. But somewhere between failed hookup attempts and helping her dad plan the ball, Shelby starts to understand what her mother really meant, what her father really needs, and who really has the right to her purity.

Shelby lost her mother at a tender, impressionable young age, and she promised her mother a few things before she died. She would always listen to her father, love as much as possible and live life without restraint. Life has changed a lot since her mother’s passing, but those promises haven’t. When she and her father’s worlds collide with the Princess Ball – a place where she’ll make a purity pledge she knows she can’t break – Shelby begins to question things. She will not break her vows, but she realizes there’s a loophole. If she loses her virginity before the ball, she’s not breaking any covenants after all. The vows, however, are just the beginning.

I’ve read a few of Jackson Pearce’s books now, and I’ve loved them all. She has this way with words that’s both completely illustrative, but also extremely straightforward and honest. Purity was no exception. With a protagonist that is human with flaws and all, a supporting cast of characters that are entertaining and engaging and a theme that’s tricky and tension-filled, the novel doesn’t back away from potential controversy. Fearless and evocative, emotional and heartfelt, Purity doesn’t back down, and it gives new light to those grey areas that religion and society so often like to gloss over.

Guys, there’s always going to be controversy when it comes to novels that touch on religion, purity, teen sex, death and more. I think the mistake these books often make is taking the situations and painting them in the authors’ points of view, rather than the mindset of the character. Purity, however, did something I found rather refreshing. Shelby was flawed. Trust me. She wasn’t a bad apple, but she wasn’t the nicest to those around her, she was a bit conniving at times and she made rash and often snap judgments without giving thought to the potential consequences. Rather than being obnoxious and cloying, however, I found Shelby almost endearing because she was so very human – flaws and all. Furthermore, Purity doesn’t shy away from the topic of religion and manages to display to very polar opposite sides without being preachy or attempting to sway you to one viewpoint. As readers, we’re allowed to see what we want to see within the novel, as it illustrates the story but has a sort of top-level ambivalence that prevents it from being obnoxious and overbearing. I will, however, state that as a religious person, I did feel my upbringing (my moral high ground, if you will) clashing with parts of the story at times. That, however, is not a flaw of Purity and, as a reader, I’ll choose to look at it as a strength because it made me both think and feel.

All in all, I think that Purity was a great book, and I believe the author brought a fabulous new voice to the topic and issue. I do have to note that those with strong religious convictions, aversions to teen sex and religious themes will probably find issue with this book. I give it a 4 out of 5, and I highly recommend it to fans of YA, especially those who enjoy issue-driven contemporary.

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.

Let's Talk is a new weekly feature here at i swim for oceans. I think it's important that we all have our say, and there's something to be said for raising our voices. Simply put, here on the little old blog, I like to host some of my very own discussion posts because, well, I like to converse with you all.

And so, Let's Talk will feature questions or prompts, which I will answer, too. Love it or hate it, weigh in or don't, it's my hope that Let's Talk will at least get you thinking...and maybe even get you discussing with the rest of us!

Question: How do you review a book?

I think that reviewing books is a very personal process that is entirely individual to the reviewer crafting the review. That basically means that I don't believe and can't say that I think there is a true right or wrong way to do it. I've found a process that works for me, but who knows? It might not work for everyone out there. However, my reviewing process is most certainly not a secret, and it has morphed and developed over time into something that is a bit tried and true. When I try to deviate from it, I find myself missing the mark.

Step One - Read the book. I am not the type of person that can take notes on a book while reading. I actually have to read the entire book before I write a single thing down, or I feel a bit lost in the whole process. If I absolutely cannot read the book, which doesn't happen often mind you, I won't review it. If I can, however, I finish the book, then move to step two.

Step Two - Take notes. Before I actually write my review, I make notes on four points. I make note of the summary, whether it matched the actual book, as well as how it differed. I write my thoughts on the writing style, the prose and the author's ability to convey a theme and scene. I elaborate on the plot so I can distinguish between what truly worked and what may have missed the mark. Finally, I decide how (overall) the book worked for me.

Step Three - Write the Review. Once I have my notes, I start with those four points and craft a wee section on both. I create my own summary that details but doesn't tell too much. I thoroughly discuss the writing, then move on and detail the plots strengths and weakness, as well as the characters'. Finally, I offer up my rating. I rate on a five star scale simply because I think it's effective and universal for understanding.

Step Four - Publish it. When I publish my review, it's more than simply publishing it to my blog. My reviews go anywhere and everywhere they can to get the title and author out there. I publish my reviews on Goodreads, Amazon, Random Buzzers, Barnes & Noble, Netgalley (when applicable) and I always, always send my reviews to publishers and publicists who supply the books.

Step Five - Hype it. When my review has been published, I bring social media into play. I feature all reviews on my Twitter, Facebook and Google+ pages, and I've even gone so far as to start touting them on on my Pinterest, as well!

Like I said though, this reviewing process is my own. It works for me, but it might not be right for others. Heck, some people can read two books at once! I'd die. I think that if you give yourself the right amount of time and space, any blogger can develop a great reviewing style unique to them.

Title: Darkness Before Dawn
Author: J.A. London
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publish Date: May 29, 2012
Genre: YA, Paranormal, Dystopian
Pages: 272
Source: Publisher

This electrifying new trilogy blends the best of paranormal and dystopian storytelling in a world where the war is over. And the vampires won.

Humans huddle in their walled cities, supplying blood in exchange for safety. But not even that is guaranteed. Dawn has lost her entire family and now reluctantly serves as the delegate to Lord Valentine, the most powerful vampire for miles. It isn’t until she meets Victor, Valentine’s son, that she realizes not all vampires are monsters....

Darkness Before Dawn is a fresh new story with captivating characters, unexpected plot twists, a fascinating setting, and a compelling voice. Written under the name J. A. London by a talented mother-son team, the trilogy is perfect for fans of True Blood and the House of Night and Morganville Vampires series.

Dawn lives in a world where darkness rules, and blood is the new currency. In an age where humans are subservient to vampires, human cities are set hundreds of miles apart from one another and are enclosed within large walls – not necessarily meant to protect the humans, but to keep them enclosed. At just 17 years old, Dawn is appointed a Delegate and must negotiate with the oldest vampire, Valentine, when he wants the human’s blood supply to vampires doubled. It’s an arduous task at the best of times, and now, in the worst of times, it is almost impossible. But Dawn’s life is more difficult than most. She’s also a teenager, navigating the realms of first loves, friendships and schooling, and an unwelcome visitor might just turn out to be the most welcome one after all.

In a world of YA paranormal novels where vampires seem to prevail, Darkness Before Dawn by J.A. London takes a stab at the market, hoping to shake things up a bit and breathe new life into a rather time-tested tale. With an air of mystery, a host of characters layered with duplicitous intentions and a plot that undulates in a series of highs and lows, the novel spins the reader into a bleak web. The novel was rich and evocative in prose, providing intricate details to completely captivate the reader from start to finish, giving you the full range of emotions and encouraging you to lose yourself entirely.

I have to admit that I’m entirely conflicted on Darkness Before Dawn. There were some wonderful strengths to this novel. Combining a brilliant dystopian world with futuristic vampires that rule over humans was a great concept and completely, darkly alluring. The world was so vividly described that it was easy to forget that I didn’t actually live in the world, which was a definite strength, lending to incredibly powerful scene-setting. In terms of characters, Valentine was an atrocious and fascinating villain. His character was so very dark that every scene he played a part in was tinged in darkness and blood, as well. I was, I’ll admit, a bit peeved to see yet another villain named Valentine though, especially when the Mortal Instruments series sort of coined it in pop culture. I also had some issues with Dawn’s character. I did enjoy her strength. I thought it was wonderful to finally have an empowered young heroine that didn’t leave all to chance, fate and the men in her life. However, navigating the love triangle was tedious, her relationship with Victor felt too instantaneous and reminiscent of other vampire novels for me to become truly absorbed. Most of all, however, I felt that adding normalcy of high school drama to such a dark and twisted plot actually took away from the story. Was it still entertaining? Of course…I just think that Darkness Before Dawn could have been better.

Overall, I’ll admit that Darkness Before Dawn was a rather quick and easy read, and it was definitely engaging. I don’t think it was my favourite, but you know me and vampires; that’s always tricky. I give it a 3 out of 5, and I recommend it to fans of YA, especially those who enjoy paranormal and dystopian stories.

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.

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: The Stone Girl
Author: Alyssa B. Sheinmel
Publisher: Random House Children's
Publish Date: August 28, 2012
Genre: YA, Contemporary
Pages: 224

Sethie Weiss is hungry, a mean, angry kind of hunger that feels like a piece of glass in her belly. She’s managed to get down to 111 pounds and knows that with a little more hard work—a few more meals skipped, a few more snacks vomited away—she can force the number on the scale even lower. She will work on her body the same way she worked to get her perfect grades, to finish her college applications early, to get her first kiss from Shaw, the boy she loves, the boy who isn’t quite her boyfriend.

Sethie will not allow herself one slip, not one bad day, not one break in concentration. Her body is there for her to work on when everything and everyone else—her best friend, her schoolwork, and Shaw—are gone.

There is something brutally honest about issue-based YA contemps that really hook me; and I say that with complete and utter sincerity. Many of you know why books regarding eating disorders are so very important to me, and for those that don't, let's just say it's personal. While books like The Stone Girl might be difficult to stomach, triggering, or just plain hard to read, I think they are equally important. I am really looking forward to finding some hidden truth in this one. What do you think, and what are you waiting on this week?

Top Ten Tuesday is an original feature/weekly meme created by The Broke and the Bookish. The feature was created because they are particularly fond of lists over at The Broke and the Bookish. They'd love to share their lists with other bookish folks and would LOVE to see your top ten lists!

Each week they will post a new top ten list that one of our bloggers at The Broke and the Bookish will answer. Everyone is welcome to join. All they ask is that you link back to The Broke and the Bookish on your own Top Ten Tuesday post AND add your name to the Linky widget so that everyone can check out other bloggers lists! If you don't have a blog, just post your answers as a comment. Have fun with it! It's a fun way to get to know your fellow bloggers.

Top Ten Deceiving Book Covers:

1. Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling – I didn’t actually start to read the series until two books in. Shocker. I know. I thought it was going to be a silly kids’ book, so I ignored it (and often made fun of my little sister for reading it). Then, I decided to give it a go and, well, the rest is history.

2. Redwall by Brian Jacques – Come on now…the covers have mice, and shrews, and otters and badgers in armour with swords! I thought they looked ridiculous, to be honest, but I started reading them so I could carry around big books like the pretentious little reader I was. They’re actually beautiful and deep, and I adore the series to this day.

3. Halo by Alexandra Adornetto - Gorgeous cover. Absolutely, positively stunning cover. Seriously, I was obsessed for months before I finally got the book. Unfortunately, the story was FAR overshadowed by the amazing cover.

4. The Water Wars by Cameron Stracher – This is, quite possibly, the most beautiful cover I’ve ever seen in my entire life. I thought it was stunning, and the premise was just incredible. The story, however, was riddled with searing political agendas that completely shrouded whatever plot might have otherwise succeeded.

5. Blood Red Road by Moira Young – The cover is adequate. It’s certainly not special in the realm of incredibly covers, but it’s poignant. The story within the pages, however, is one of the most clever, original takes on dystopian that I’ve read in a while, and the dialect truly sets it apart.

6. Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead – Ok, you all know me. I hate vampires…with a passion. I was finally convinced to try the series even though I was pretty sure the girl on the first book was Angelina Jolie from Lara Croft, and I was just blown away. This is right up there with my favourite series of all time. Do not be fooled by this cover!

7. Raw Blue by Kirsty Eagar – I think the cover looks a bit amateur, to be honest, so when I saw all the great reviews, I couldn’t understand them. Let me just say that this is one of the best books I’ve ever read, and it’s possibly the best contemporary I’ve ever tried. It’s stunning.

8. Tris & Izzie by Mette Ivie Harrison – Holy gorgeous cover. I was blown away from the first second I received it. The content, however? Fluff. Ludicrous, absurd fluff. I rarely give 1 star reviews, but this was very nearly a DNF. I highly recommend steering clear of this one.

9. Twenty Boy Summer by Sarah Ockler – This one is more deceiving due to the title, to be honest, though the cover is still rather weak. When I picked it up, I thought it sounded, well, slutty…if we’re being honest. It’s actually incredibly powerful and sincere though and just happened to have a bit of a lackluster title.

10. Witch & Wizard by James Patterson – I remember when this one first came out and was touted as the “next Harry Potter.” Well, my withdrawals had me sufficiently weak, so I bought it. It’s horrible, guys. Absolutely horrible. There is no plot, there are no real characters and, frankly, it’s an utter waste of space.