Happy Holiday Super Giveaway Winners

I thought that there would be more entries for these contests, but none of them got over 50 entries.  Anyway, here are the winners. I'm sorry that they're a little late, but I was at my Grandparent's house and then it was Christmas, but the winners are here now. 

The winner of the book pendant is isabella who wanted the Catching Fire pendant.
The winner of the personalized pendant is Susan Light.
The winner of the 2012 ARC is Tristen Calnan who wanted Under the Never Sky.

Thanks to all who entered and hopefully I'll do another contest like this soon.

Review-Under the Never Sky

I recently made friends with the amazing author of this amazing book so I decided that since the book is coming out in 11 days, YES ELEVEN, I should read it because I received it for review.  This book has been pitched for people who loved both Graceling and The Hunger Games, neither of which I have actually read (although I've started them both) but now I might need to give them a second chance.  Veronica's book was so good, the world building was amazing, and what made it even more amazing was the fact that she managed to make a whole new world and most of the story took place in a space that wasn't like the world we live in today.  I admire her great skill at the art she has ended up calling her profession.  This book had it all, adventure, danger, some blood thrown in, a cute boy, a strong girl, a super power or two (you'll understand what I mean when you read it), some kissy scenes, and cannibals (and you all know how much I love that last one!).  There's a clear villain in the book, even though he's not in play most of the time, and the choices Aria has to make are life changing.  There have been mixed reviews about this book, and I can understand that because some people could say it starts out slow.  I think for me it wasn't that it started out slow but that we were thrown into the story with no background so I was rather confused, but I just pushed through it (with a little help from Veronica every now and then).  So to clear this up a little for those of you who read the book (so you don't give up and miss out on the awesomeness) there is the sun and then there is the Aether.  The Aether, according to Veronica is "a new layer of atmosphere that sort of acts like electricity, but it moves like water, up in the sky."  And those are her words, not mine, so now you know why they sound so much better then anything I could have come up with.  Be warned, there are a few hot scenes in the book so it's probably not a good gift for someone under the age of 14 (probably a lot like The Hunger Games, which some people say are good for 5th graders, but really, I don't think so.).  If you like dystopian novels definitely give this one a try, and keep in mind, the future may be closer then you think.  Also, GOD that tag line, isn't it great!?

Released January 3, 2012

4.5/5 dust spirits

In Which I Talk About Books (3)

More lists of 5 books, not 10 (so I don't cause your eyes too much harm)!  Yeah, I stole some of these but I also made up a few all by myself! (Well, just because I made them up doesn't mean they haven't been done before, it just means I haven't SEEN them before, okay? Okay.)

FIRST; Books I want to find in my stocking/under the tree/etc.
1. Sean Griswold's Head by Lindsey Leavitt. This book just sounds so me, which kind of makes me sound pathetic, but that's okay. I'm one of those people who fixates on one part of a person (who generally doesn't know I exist) and basically I become all swoony over them.  Yeah, I admit it's dorky but I AM a dork, and you can't tell me this book doesn't sound like fun.
2. Ashes by Ilsa Bick. Michelle Hodkin says this book scared her, and because I LOVE Michelle's book and I LOVE to be scared I don't see any reason why I shouldn't want this book.
3. You Against Me by Jenny Downham.  I read Jenny's first book years ago and it was really good, so when I learned she was writing another book I was interested in that book as well.
4. Catching Jordan by Miranda Kenneally. Although I'm a tomboy I love books with sappy love stories, and I love them even more when Simmone Elkeles says that she loves them, because I love Simone Elkeles.
5. The Dark And Hollow Places by Carrie Ryan. I read the first two books in this series by her and now I really need to finish it up.  I've also heard that this is the fan favorite of the three, so I'm very excited to read it!

SECOND; Sequels I need NOW.
1. Clockwork Princess by Cassandra Clare.  I just finished Clockwork Prince and now I need to know how it all ends. I'm sure because it is Cassie the last book will end up with at least one dead shadowhunter that we all know and love, but I just NEED to know what happens.
2. City of Lost Souls by Cassandra Clare.  The ending of CoFA?  MAJOR CLIFFHANGER!!!  I hate cliffhangers, and this one was HUGE.  I need to know what happens NOW because I sense MORE bad things in store for Jace and Clary. I mean really Cassie, just leave them alone!
3. The sequel to The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin. This doesn't have a title yet, which is okay, but hopefully it will have the words "Mara Dyer" in it, cause I feel that would fit well.  But to the point, another book with a HUGE cliffhanger.  Yeah, you learn major things in the book but just when you think you know everything, BAM, you're left dangling.
4. The sequel to Legend by Marie Lu. This book also doesn't have a title yet, but it comes out net year.  The end of Legend, not really a cliffhanger at all, but I just really want to see what happens!  Lu has such a great writing style that you can't help but want to read the whole thing once you actually start reading.  And I want more kissing, because there wasn't enough kissing in this book, so I hope that gets fixed in book 2!
5. The Last Echo by Kimberly Derting. This isn't actually the last book in the Body Finder series, contrary to some belief, the title is just misleading.  But, you all know how much I love Kim and her books, and she said this was the first book where she actually scared herself while writing a scene, so BRING IT ON!

THIRD; Teen books that will most likely end up being modern classics.
1. Looking for Alaska by John Green. If you've read this book you have to know that it's good.  It makes you think, it makes you cry, and it makes you thankful for the people you have in your life.
2. Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher.  Teen suicide is a HUGE issue, and even though this book is a NYT best seller and rights have been sold in many many countries it's still not a book that people go, "oh yeah, I've heard of that" like To Kill A Mockingbird.  As times change the books that will be remembered do too, and this one should be remembered for a long time, because this will always be an issue.
3. The Harry Potter book by J. K. Rowling.  There are very few modern classics that are fantasy in genre, but this one will sure to be one of the few that make it there.  I have no doubt this book will go down in history for more then one reason.
4. Will Grayson, Will Gryason by John Green and David Levithan. Okay, this one is really just me HOPING it will end up as a modern classic, but I mean, who says classics can't be fun?  I think this book has something to teach every one of us, and isn't that classics are really for in the end, to teach us, inspire us, and make us think?
5. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green. I haven't read this book and it hasn't actually come out yet, but if you've read something by John Green you know what a genius he is, and if you know what the book is about you probably already know it's gonna be on the best seller list.

FOURTH; If you haven't read these books you must go forth and do so.
1. Anything by Cassandra Clare. Her world is just so magical, and her writing is perfect, and her kissy scenes are oh so swoon-worthy.
2. Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green and David Levithan.  This book is just so funny, and it's great, and it's mind blowing, and it's just...there are no words for this book.
3. Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher. This book is heartbreaking and wonderful and insightful and thought provoking all in one.  A true gem in the teen literary world.
4. Beauty Queens by Libba Bray. I'm sure this one is making you go "wait, what, how is this book one that I NEED to read?"  But I think that this is one of the most important books you could read, because it gives you a whole new look on the way we as Americans see so many things.  As a girl who takes little heed in the way she looks when she goes outside and is rather disgusted at all of the things we value now it was really great to see I'm not the only person with this opinion.
5. The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson. This book deals with loss, which, unless you are VERY VERY lucky, you have delt with or will deal with at one point or another in your life.  Nelson somehow manages to make loss beautiful in a way.

FIFTH; Books with swoon-worthy boys.
1. Anything by Cassandra Clare.  Jace, Alec, Jem, Will, Magnus, ALL of her guy characters are SO swoon-worthy.  They are badass, they have a sweet-side, and man are they ripped! ;)
2. The Hush, Hush Saga by Becca Fitzpatrick. Patch is just, yum.  We all love a cute guy with a bad boy side but Patch has such a soft side too. I mean, who doesn't want the ultimate bad boy devoted to them?
3. The Wolves of Mercy Falls by Maggie Stiefvater. Sam is one of those rare boys in YA literature that isn't a bad boy but still makes us all swoon.  He's so sweet and so in love with Grace (which happens to be my name, but I've yet to find a Sam who's crazy in love with me).  Sometimes we just need one of those boys that loves you no matter what and doesn't end up breaking your heart because of something stupid he says/does trying to be "cool"
4. The Perfect Chemistry Series by Simone Elkeles. The Fuentes boys are just SO great.  They're bad, they're passionate, they're Latino (okay, that really doesn't have anything to do with anything), and they're good looking.  They're also very protective about their girls, but they understand that their girls can totally hold their own.
5. Anything by Stephenie Perkins. Gosh are her boys swoon-worthy or WHAT!? And the best part, they're just ordinary boys!  They have flaws!  The other great thing, they fall for girls that are just like us, nothing magical about it.  Yeah, they're a little infuriating because they're sometimes blind, but what boy isn't?
EXTRA; The Body Finder Series by Kimberly Derting. Kim can write some great guys, she really can!  I've always been one of those girls who wants to fall in love with their best friend and live happily ever after, although Rafe isn't half bad either.

SIXTH; Books with kick-ass girls.
1. Anything by Cassandra Clare. You guys, let me just say it now, Cassandra Clare is a great writer and all her characters are great.  Clary, Tessa, Isabelle, they all hold their own and all of them could kill you without help.  And they're all very fashionable to boot.
2. The Body Finder Series by Kimberly Derting. Violet may not know how to fight or carry a sword or anything like that, but she is fearless because she doesn't worry about herself.  She senses an echo and goes to help whoever or whatever it is that is dead.  That, to me, is just as good as a person who goes out and fights demons.
3. The Nightshade Series by Andrea Cremer. Calla Tor is fierce and she takes crap from nobody!  There are so many YA books out there right now that have people torn between two guys, and yes, that's the way it is for us now, but as Andrea said, Calla might end up not picking either Ren OR Shay, because she's independent!  She sought the truth even when it meant destroying her standing in her home and she's not afraid to fight for what she thinks is right.
4. Legend by Marie Lu. June reminds me of the girl version of Patrick Jane (The Mentalist).  She can hold a gun, she's fast, she's smart, she does what's right, she loves her family so much, and even though it could mean her death she stands up for what she KNOWS is right and fights against what is wrong. 
5. Beauty Queens By Libba Bray. All of the girls in this book kick ass. They're stranded on a deserted island (or so they think) and have to survive the hardships of surviving by themselves.  And did I mention they are beauty pageant girls? Yeah, I think you have to be pretty kick ass just to survive in that situation, but to be a pampered girl for your whole life and then have to stop a conspiracy, that is bad-ass.

SEVENTH; New books you might ask for for the holidays.
1. Legend by Marie Lu. So much fun, told from the point of view of the two main characters (a boy and a girl) and it's dystopian.  And half the print is in gold!  Fancy.
2. Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi. A dystopian debut that's different then pretty much anything else out there to this point.  It's full of action and kissing (and who doesn't love both!?) and the story is really original.
3. The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater.  Here's a book with a kick-ass girl and man-eating horses.  The thing that really got me was the man-eating horses.  Also very different then anything else out there.
4. Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor. This is a beautiful book with an intricate story line and it's pretty much the only thing out there of it's kind at this moment in time.  She's not a debut author, but this is a book that's on pretty much everyone's radar for 2012.
5. Shattered Souls by Mary Lindsey. Another book that's different (and it also needs a sequel) that has a nice air of Victorian England even though it's set in the modern day US. A unique idea that's beautiful and somewhat chilling at the same time. And the boy is pretty cute too.

EIGHTH; Lesser known creatures.
1. The Monstumologist by Rick Yancy. How many of you have heard of a Anthropophagi? Enough said.
2. The Replacement by Brenna Yavanoff. Changelings are sort of like faeries, but for the point of this post we'll say they're different.
3. The Need series by Carie Jones. Pixies!  Now that's different. No, not faeries, Pixies. And they're not small little things that help you fly with their dust.
4. Zombies Vs. Unicorns Edited by Holly Black and Justine Larbalestier. Zombies AND Unicorns? Now that's weird.
5. Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi. I'm not really sure what Juliette is, but whatever it is it's different.  Something like a mutant.  That counts as a creature, right?  I mean that in the best way possible.

NINTH; Top contemporary books of the year (in no particular order).
1. The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson.  I loved the inserts in the book, for me those were the best part! But I liked the actual page parts too, that part was good as well.
2. The Pull of Gravity by Gae Polisner. A cute indie book about the lengths one boy would go for his best friend (and a girl that he may or may not have a crush on). 
3. Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephenie Perkins. Loved Anna, loved Lola more! Cricket is mine! Enough said.
4. Chain Reaction by Simone Elkeles.  Luis may be my favorite Fuentes boy of the three. Probably because he's the smart one that takes some risks.  I like smart boys.
5. Beauty Queens by Libba Bray.  A quirky, funny read that made me thrilled that I'm not the only one who thinks American advertising has gone just a LITTLE too far.  And that beauty isn't really the most important thing in the world.

TENTH; Top dystopian/sci-fi/magic/etc books of the year (in no particular order) The 10 book version!
1. Across the Universe by Beth Revis. Yay for space travel, murder mysteries, and space ships!  Can you tell I'm a Star Trek nerd? ;)
2. Delirium by Lauren Oliver. This book BLEW MY MIND. It was just so beautiful and perfect and lyrical and...and...yeah, it was amazing.
3. Imaginary Girls by Nova Ren Suma.  I'm not really sure what category this book falls in, but because it has a few parts in it that could never be real (or that we have yet to discover) it will be in this category.  For some reason I just loved this book.  I'm not sure what it was, maybe the writing style, maybe the characters, maybe just the story idea.  Although I have a sneaking suspicion it was Ruby with her Ruby ways.
4. Hourglass by Myra McEntire. Finally a time travel book that didn't confuse me!  And the whole idea of the book, even though part of it was time travel was still cool and new!
5. The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin. It was spooky, it was sexy, it was a little confusing, and it was all good.  And Noah, WOW Noah.  Also, Mara, she's a bad-ass, watch out for her if you're evil!
6. Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor.  A fresh book that took my breath away and left me pretty much speechless.  My favorite parts may have been the little sections before each part and the first few chapters. ;)
7. Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi. I loved it. So different, but not in a bad way!  I kinda wish I could write like this!  Actually, I REALLY wish I could write like this.
8. The Pledge by Kimberly Derting. Because we all know I kinda stalk Kim and I basically love ALL of her books.  This one was pretty cool.  Also, Klingon on the sticker, that is an EPIC WIN!
9. Legend by Marie Lu. Oh goodness, this was such a thrill ride and so much fun!  The sad thing, I could actually see things like this happening in the future.  Beware!
10. Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare. *Swoon* Goodness. So much happened in such a short amount of time in that book, and some of those kisses, WOW. We also learn SO much about SO much and it's like...it was beautiful. 

Review-Clockwork Prince

First off, I love Cassie's books. She's one of my favorite authors and there is not a book she has written that I don't like.  People have said many things about this book, that it left them heart-broken, it made them cry, it was the best book she's ever written, and while these all may be true to some people only one of them is true for me.  This is, by far, the best book Cassie has ever written.  I can see how some people might cry and how some people might be left heart-broken, because Cassie writes in such a way that plays with your emotions, like a roller coaster of feelings shoved at you in such a way you just have to hold on to them for the time being.  People are also steadily on a side, Team Jem or Team Will, and to begin with I was Team Will, but now I'm Team "Cassie Break My Heart and You Will Die".  I think there's a good way to end the series, a reasonable way to end the series, and a way that will leave half of us broken for the rest of our lives, and based on this book I'm guessing it will be the last one that ends up being written.  The book only takes place between a two week period but I feel that so much is squished into that two weeks, so much happens, we learn so much, and it's just so magical.  Dare I say that this series is shaping up to be BETTER then the Mortal Instruments (although I am still rather partial to Jace).  I wish I could say that the reason I took so long to read this book was because I was savoring every moment of it, but I was sick, and didn't want to read when I was sick, but once I got better it was SO good.  Somehow I just seemed to find myself in Tessa's London, and I was worried for all of the character's safety, even the main ones, because we all know Cassie isn't afraid to kill of a main character.  If you haven't read the first book in this series I highly recommend you pick it up, then grab this one.  If you haven't read anything by Cassie at least pick up ONE of her books, either of her series will do, but this one really does stand out against other books in the genre at this time.  Bravo Cassie, Bravo.

5/5 dust spirits

Happy Holiday Super Giveaway!

I've been terrible at keeping up the blog. No reviews, no posts, no giveaways, bad me!  So let's fix that. I will have a review up by Monday at the latest and here's a giveaway!  This giveaway has 3 parts, because...well, it's better then one, and two is just an odd number for giveaways in my mind. Let's start with rules, because, well, we all hate them, but they make up our society and keep things in order.  One entry per person per each contest. You MUST be a follower in some way, aka blog or facebook, to enter.  If you want to tweet/facebook/blog about the contest feel free to do so, but for the sake of my sanity one entry per person (that means no extra entries).  Now, I'm sure you're all wondering what you can win, right? Right.  So, three prizes, three winners (or in the case someone is REALLY lucky two winners, or just one [I want to be that person right there]) and they're ALL book related. Shocking right, I mean, this is a BOOK blog, but a giveaway for book related things (books included), CRAZY!  So, prizes.

Prize #1: 1 Pendant (Necklace not included)! It has to be one of these covers, but please note that not all of them are available.  This contest is INTERNATIONAL

       

*Please note that these are not specific ones, although if you want one of these I would be happy to make you one with one of these images on it.  This one may also take a few days (a week or so) to create, seeing as I have to make them by hand.

Enter here

Prize #2: A pendant with a picture of your choice on it (Necklace not included). But please note that you might have to give me a few options because the pictures have to fit on these small tiles, and not all pictures can do that without looking weird. (see above pictures only you can put whatever you want on them).  This contest is INTERNATIONAL.

Enter here

Prize #3: A 2012 ARC.  You can choose one ARC that comes out in 2012 that I have an extra copy of.  Some of the choices include the following;

*Please note that this contest is for US residents only because the ARCs are all US ARCs.

Enter here

Winners will be announced later today or early tomorrow morning!

Review-12 Things To Do Before You Crash and Burn

I saw this book in an indie bookstore I went to because I thought they had Clockwork Prince out early (they didn't) and for some reason it reminded me of Gae Polisner's The Pull Of Gravity so I just had to pick it up.  I read it in less then a day (mostly at Costco. Man that store is HUGE) and although it wasn't amazing by any means it was a cute quick read.  There were a few laugh out loud moments (which I'm sure earned me a few odd glances at the store) and it was also a great book for guys.  There aren't a lot of books out there that appeal to guys, especially in the YA genre, and even fewer that have male narrators, but this one does.  Although it's a little crude in some places, and there is some language that's a little harsher then what may be in other YA books I still think it's a book that everyone could enjoy.  I myself am not a teenage boy, but seeing as I do have to put up with many of them in school, and I used to have many guy friends I can tell you this is a pretty accurate portrayal of the average teenage guy.  It's also got a whole adventure thing going on, and even though it's not life and death (although there is a scene with some pretty mean dogs, and then a crazy linebacker) it's amusing and enjoyable.  Basically this is a short read that has no profound statements in it that will change your life, but it will make you chuckle once or twice and is a good light read.  I do suggest caution for those of you under the age of 15 though, there are choice words and some various sexual parts referenced.

4/5 dust spirits

Review-Legend

With dystopian novels becoming the new trend in YA there are bound to be some flops out there, but Legend is not one of them.  As a debut novel Lu knocks the socks off my feet, and I'm so glad that she is a new edition to the YA world.  Her characters are fierce and her plot is nothing short of awesome.  The world she created is completely new, but I could see it happening one day.  The images in her books are so startling, and the interaction between characters is so perfect that it makes you not want to put the book down when you pick it up.  With some of these books everything is packed into the very end, and while it's true the end is a good punch to the gut there are also some good jabs in the middle and the very beginning.  And there's a plague in the book, which, if I would have known sooner I would have been ALL OVER it the moment I got it in the mail.  If dystopian is the new vampire I can't say I'm upset with the trend.  Legend is fast paced and well written, and the fact that Day's chapters are in gold print makes it that much cooler.  Day is also now one of my favorite dystopian boys because, I mean, who doesn't want a boyfriend who would do anything for his family, is really smart, incredibly agile, and the corrupt government's number one enemy?  And I secretly wish I could be June sometimes too, because even though she's been through so much she's still so strong, and even though she could easily become a bad guy, she has the courage to do what's right in the end, even though it costs her so much.  If you are a fan of any dystopian novel out there, or if you just want a change you should definitely pick up this debut. I'm sure that by the time you finish you'll want the second one just like me.  And just so you know, I want the second one now. ;)

5/5 dust spirits

December Book Giveaway

So you all said that a monthly giveaway would be a good idea, so here's how it's going to work. There will be six books you can choose from that come out during the month the contest is for, so because it's September the book you choose will have come out in December, not in November, or January, or any other month, just December. The book will be shipped at the beginning of the next month, so if you're looking to get the book right when it comes out you're out of luck, because that's not going to happen. Winners will be announced on the first of the month and a new giveaway will be posted then as well. You can only enter ONCE, if you enter more than that you will be disqualified. The contest will be international as long as the Book Depository ships to your country for free (want to know if it does? Check here). All you have to do is fill out the form and press "send" or whatever it is at the end of the form, and then wait. You have until December 31st at 12:00 Midnight Pacific Standard Time to enter. Good luck.

Note, the reason CP isn't on the list this month is because I'm sure we ALL want to get it the moment it comes out, and if not, we will all be asking for it for the holidays! You can change your book later if you win and happen to have gotten the book for Christmas/ect.

November Book Winner

Again there were 6 books to choose from, and this time 57 people entered .  There were 192 entries, but again there can only be one winner.

That winner is Kristi S. who wanted The Pledge, which is AMAZING!   Congrats Kristi S. and I hope you enjoy your book.  If you didn't win don't worry, there will be another giveaway up shortly for December!!!

In Which I Talk About Books For The Holiday

You guys seemed to like the posts I did where I listed books and such, and I thought that since it was almost time for people to be buying holiday presents (you know you're already thinking about it) why not make a list of books that you might want to give to people!? And if you don't celebrate holidays then you can just pick them up as a thank you gift, or keep them for yourself. Maybe you'll find something you want on the list too. 

For the die-hard Vampire lover in your family;
*Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead
*Blue Bloods by Melissa De La Cruz
*Eighth Grade Bites by Heather Brewer
*Marked by P.C. and Kristin Cast
*Glass House by Rachel Cain

Werewolf addicts;
*Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater
*Nightshade by Andrea Cremer
*The Dark Divine by Bree Despain
*Raised By Wolves by Jennifer Lynn Barnes
*13 To Life by Shannon Delany

Crazy Witches;
*Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl
*Hex Hall by Rachel Hawkins
*Possessions by Nancy Holder
*The Near Witch by Victoria Schwab
*Always A Witch by Carolyn MacCullough

For the Angel (fallen or otherwise) lovers;
*Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick
*Fallen by Lauren Kate
*Unearthly by Cynthia Hand
*A Touch Mortal by Leah Clifford
*Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor

The Contemporary lovers;
*Anna and the French Kiss/Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephanie Perkins
*Impulse by Ellen Hopkins
*Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles
*Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher
*The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson

Good Boy books;
*Will Grayson, Will Grayson by John Green and David Levithan
*Thirteen Days To Midnight by Patrick Craman
*Zombies Vs. Unicorns edited by Holly Black and Justine Larbalestier
*The Eleventh Plague by Jeff Hirsch
*The Pull Of Gravity by Gae Polisner

Creep-Out reads;
*The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting
*The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin
*Bad Girls Don't Die by Katie Alender
*The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan
*Cryer's Cross by Lisa McMann

Dystopian nuts;
*Delirium by Lauren Oliver
*Matched by Ally Condie
*Across the Universe by Beth Revis
*Wither by Lauren DeStefano
*Uglies by Scott Westerfeld

Action and Adventure;
*Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi
*The Pledge by Kimberly Derting
*The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater
*Possess by Elana Johnson
*Angelfire by Courtney Allison Moulton

Others to check out;
*Imaginary Girls by Nova Ren Suma
*Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist/Dash and Lily's Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan
*A Need So Beautiful by Suzanne Young
*Hourglass by Myra McEntire
*Paranormalcy by Kiersten White
*Beauty Queens by Libba Bray
*Forgotten by Cat Patrick
*The Mockingbirds by Daisy Whitney
*Shut Out by Kody Keplinger
*Die For Me by Amy Plum

Review-Beautiful Chaos

It took me almost three weeks to read this book, which is pathetic, but I have good reasons.  I was busy watching TV and doing homework.  Okay, those are terrible reasons, but those are the reasons, not because the book was bad.  No, the book was good. I was pleased with where it went, even though I saw exactly where it was going from about half way through.  There were some things I didn't see coming, but the overall big ending was no shock to me.  I did end up crying even though I knew what was coming, which makes me say "bravo Kami and Margie, you truly are masters of your trade".  The ending did leave a huge cliffhanger though, so I can't wait to read the last book in the series.  Even through all of the awful things that happen during the book the tone is light overall, and all the characters we love (and the ones we love to hate) are back.  We dive deeper into the reason for Sarafine's madness, find some new powers we didn't know existed, and find more of those lovely songs I just can't get enough of.  I admit I was a little confused to begin with because it had been so long ago that I read the second book, but slowly it all began to come back to me, and what didn't come back to me was woven into the story just right so it wasn't repetitive and helped refresh my memory in just the right places.  Beautifully written with just the right pulls at the heart there were some parts that just hit me in all the best spots.  If you read and enjoyed the first two books I recommend you pick up this one, but don't read the end in a public place.  Also, be prepared for a cliff hanger, because that's what you're gonna get.  And no, don't read the end first, I know there are those of you who do it, but don't, cause it will ruin everything.  I'm watching you!

5/5 dust spirits

Secret Snowflake Book Swap

I'm still in high school, which means that I'm really fond of the holiday season because, hey, we get two weeks off, TWO WEEKS to do homework, eat good food, open presents (or just enjoy the weather, depending on your life style) and...READ BOOKS!  I know there are some of you out there who don't celebrate holidays but I'm sure you all are familiar with the idea that winter comes with snow (well, in most of the world) and here in good old Seattle it's beginning to look at lot like winter.  Years ago in 7th grade (yeah, okay, it was only 4 years ago) we did something along the same lines, and again in 9th grade, but because we need to respect all of the different religions out there we called it Secret Squirrel (7th grade) and Secret Snowflake (9th) and even though I love squirrels there aren't that many out in the winter, so we'll go with snowflakes.  So the way this is gonna work is easy, first, you have to sign up.  You have until November 21st to sign up.  That's two weeks.  After that I'll work a little magic and give everyone one person to get a book for and in return everyone will get a book from a different person.  If you sign up you will get a book and you will give a book!  If you won't be able to get a book to swap don't sign up because it's not fair to all of the people out there who did buy their people books but then didn't get one back in return.  Make sure to get your book out by January 1st, 2012.  There is going to be a $20.00 spending limit (that way if you buy the book in store it's still viable if it's a HB) so that people don't go overboard or feel that they aren't as good as someone who has money, because I love you all, and you all are amazing.  The one thing that might be a problem is that in the form you will have to give your address and someone else will get it so they can send you the book.  If you are under the age of 16 make sure you have your parents permission, but I promise not to share your address with anyone but the person who is going to be sending you a book, and if you want you can specify that you want me to pair you with someone who lives a good distance from you, but if you think about it this is really no different then when you input your address to enter a contest on a blog.  It's international but do let me know on the form if you are willing to do international or not.  If you're wondering you can send books from the book depository to a number of foreign countries for free.  You're going to pick five books that you want and someone will pick one to give to you (No books that come out in 2012 please).  You can order the book off of a website, get it signed if you want, buy it from a used bookstore (but if you do that make sure it's in good condition!), or just go to a regular old bookstore and pick it up off the shelf. Please don't deviate from the list your person gave you, and that way we won't have people ending up with duplicate copies of a book they already have.  If you're all set with the rules just fill out the form here to be part of the festivities!

Please note that if you buy the book from a bookstore you are responsible for paying the shipping to mail the package.

In Which I'm Thankful for Books

So I found this on Beth Revis' blog, and it's basically a blog post about books I'm thankful for.  Goodness there are so many books I'm thankful for, but let's stick to five, that sounds like a reasonable number, right? And it's nice and round.  These are in no particular order, but will all be very important for me until I'm old and can't even remember what book I last read.

1. Twilight by Stephenie meyer.
  Yeah, it's a cliche, but really, this is the book that got me reading again.  Some people bash it, but I think it really was what got the YA genre going.  And yes, I was one of those crazy fan girls who stood in line for a good hour and a half to meet Stephenie when she came to my local bookstore, and I was up till midnight on the release of Breaking Dawn, at my local Borders (I miss it so much!), and I was even there when the first movie came out on DVD!  I will admit, I'm not fangirling over it now, but it's still a good series, and I understand why people seem to dislike it, it's been overdone, but I think that deep down pretty much everyone who says they hate it read it at one point and was really excited about it.



2. Where The Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls.

  This book was read to me in either second or third grade, then I read it again in 5th grade, and again in 8th.  If this is the pattern I need to read it again this year!  Every time I read this book I cry but I still love it to death.  I think this is a book that all kids should read because it's such a touching story, especially if you're a dog lover.  This book is a classic and I know that before I graduate from high school I'll be reading it again.  I had always had a soft spot for dogs, but this book made my love of dogs even greater.  I would read this book to my little brothers, but I know I would just end up bawling my eyes out, even though I know how it all ends.

3. The Tale of Despereaux by Kate DiCamillo.

  Again, this book was read to me in either second or third grade and I just loved it.  I had tried to read Kate's other books, but had never actually succeeded in finishing one of them.  This is also a book I shared with my little brothers and they both loved it.  Whenever a middle grade reader asks about books I recommend this one because it's just so adorable.  Kate is such an amazing writer and I know that I should read some of her other books but I just haven't gotten around to it.  Everyone everyone everyone should read this book because, either for yourself, to your children, to your class, just read it because it's great.

4. The Lorax by Dr. Seuss.

  Yeah, this is a little kids book, but now I just seem to love it.  I read it to my little brother whenever I can because the idea is just amazing.  People seem to forget that some of Dr. Seuss' books are actually important, and this is one of them.  Yeah, it's colorful and has a character that isn't real, but it's all about saving the environment and endangered species.  Maybe if everyone read this book the planet would be in better condition?  If I ever have kids I'll read this to them! Dr. Seuss will never grow old!

5. The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting.

  This book is what got me reading again in 9th grade, when I had no time to read because of all the homework I did and thought it was a lost cause.  Thanks to Kim though I found my great love for reading once again.  Kim was also the first author I got to meet up and personal who actually talked to me like I was a real person.  She had time to talk to me and was more then happy to meet me, even the fifth time I went to see her.  Her book was also deliciously spooky and might be the reason I started loving horror movies...or maybe it was the other way around? I'm not really sure, but this book is just amazing.

Review-Crossed

I was very excited when a friend of mine sent me an ARC of this book because I just loved the first one.  It was supposed to be the new Hunger Games, and although I've never finished those books I don't think it's anything like them.  I liked Crossed more then Matched but then I also liked Matched more then Crossed. Does that make sense? No, probably not, but I think that when you read it you will understand.  I loved the fact that we got to see half of the book from Ky's point of view.  I know there are some people who hate alternating points of view, but I think that Ky's point of view is such a huge part of this book it wouldn't have worked if it was all from Cassia's point of view.  We learn lots of new secrets, some bigger than others.  Thankfully the ending isn't a HUGE cliffhanger, I mean, yeah, there is some suspense as to what's going to happen next, but it's not one that will leave you tossing and turning in bed trying to figure out what's going to happen.  There was adventure, kissing, and some suspense and Ally wrapped it all up perfectly.  There were just a few things that bugged me, namely the fact that it took over 100 pages for Cassia and Ky to finally find each other.  Yeah, I know, that was a little spoilery, but I mean, really, how many of you seriously thought they wouldn't find each other again?  All of the secrets we learn the answers to in this book are definitely leading up to something bigger that better be explained in the last book.  Again Condie writes a beautiful novel that I think everyone who enjoys a good dystopia should read, and if you read and liked the first one this one won't disappoint.  I also have to comment on the covers, the first one was Green, this one is blue.  I love both covers and Ally has said that they are rather symbolic of the story, and I definitely get that.  I have a sneaking suspicion that the last one will be red, because of the tablet colors. Green to calm down (and calming down helps you figure everything out, which is what Cassia did in the first book), blue to survive (what Ky and Cassia both had to do in the second one), and red to forget (or maybe to prove how different Cassia really is).  But then again I would like it if it were purple.

4.5/5 dust spirits

Spooky Giveaway Winners

I thought I had a really great idea, but only about 40 of you entered the contest that required some thought, so maybe it wasn't such a good idea? Let me know in the comments if you liked this contest or not.  Anyways, first the answeres to the giveaway!

The ones in blod are the ones that needed to be right to get an entry.  The ones with stars by them are the ones that people seemed to find most difficult.

1. After Obsession
2. Bad Girls Don't Die
3. Beautiful Creatures
4. Shiver
5. Vampire Academy
6. Strange Angels **
7. Paranormalcy
8. The Forest of Hands and Teeth
9. The Body Finder
10. Shatter Me
11. The Monstrumologist **
12. Blue Bloods
13. The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer
14. The Scorpio Races
15. Eighth Grade Bites
16. Possessions **
17. Shade
18. The Replacement
19. Tiger's Voyage
20. The Dark Divine
21. Personal Demons
22. My Soul to Take
23. Nightshade
24. White Cat
25. Anna Dressed In Blood

1. Soulless
2. The Christopher Killer
3. The Missing Girl
4. I Know What You Did Last Summer
5. Killing Mr. Griffin

And now on with the winners!

• The ARC of After Obsession goes to Ellen Trieu
• The Signed copy of Shiver goes to Brittany Hiester
• The Signed copy of Paranormalcy goes to Alishia Ruly
• The ARC of Shatter Me goes to Hannah Jewett
• The finished copy of The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer goes to Tristen Callnan
• The Signed copy of The Scorpio Races goes to jordyn rose
• The ARC of Tiger's Voyage goes to Ana Lucía
• The finished copy of Anna dressed in Blood goes to Cynthia Neilands
• A copy of one of the 17 other books pictured goes to Samantha Slager

• The Winner of the Extra Spooky Giveaway is Loony Linh

The three winners of the swag giveaway are

1. Bree who's favorite scary movie was The Shining
2. Tristen who's favorite scary movie was Hide and Seek
3. Misha Batac who's favorite scary movie is Coming Soon (it's Thai)

Congrats to all who won, thank you to all who entered, and I hope you at least had a little fun playing!  I'll probably do one of these again soon, maybe for the blog anniversery.  The winner of the October book giveaway is posted here and the monthly giveaway for November is posted here. (There's also a giveaway for a signed copy of Ally Condie's Matched here).  Check back on the blog for more giveaways shortly.

Signed Matched Giveaway

So you all know that I'm going to see Ally Condie on Friday, and I got my dad to buy me a PB copy of Matched for Ally to sign for one of YOU!  Basically this is an easy giveaway, just fill out the form here and then wait to see if you won.  No extra entries, but you MUST either follow the blog or like the facebook page (or both if you love me lots).  If you want the book personalized to someone let me know in that box, if not just leave it blank.  This contest is international, because, I mean, why not! This contest will run until right before I leave to go see Ally on Friday November 4th, so about 6:00 PM Pacific Coast Time. GO FOR IT!
The winner has been notified. Thank you all for entering.

Note; this is the cover for the hardcover version of the book, the version up for grabs is PB and is just slightly different, if not cooler!  It's also a little banged up, but there's nothing I can do about that. 

November Book Giveaway

So you all said that a monthly giveaway would be a good idea, so here's how it's going to work. There will be six books you can choose from that come out during the month the contest is for, so because it's November the book you choose will have come out in November, not in October, or December, or any other month, just November. The book will be shipped at the beginning of the next month, so if you're looking to get the book right when it comes out you're out of luck, because that's not going to happen. Winners will be announced on the first of the month and a new giveaway will be posted then as well. You can only enter ONCE, if you enter more than that you will be disqualified. The contest will be international as long as the Book Depository ships to your country for free (want to know if it does? Check here). All you have to do is fill out the form and press "send" or whatever it is at the end of the form, and then wait. You have until October 31st at 12:00 Midnight Pacific Standard Time to enter. Good luck.

October Book Winner

Again there were 6 books to choose from, and this time 107 people entered .  There were 353 entries, but again there can only be one winner.

That winner is Mendy Hensley who wanted Carrier of the Mark, which is supposed to be AMAZING!   Congrats Mendy Hensley and I hope you enjoy your book.  If you didn't win don't worry, there will be another giveaway up shortly for the month of November!!!

In Which I Talk About Books (2)

So you guys seemed to really like the last one of these I did, and I came up with (okay, yeah, yeah, yeah, I borrowed a few too) some more!  Without further adue (which is a word dang nabbit Blogger!) a few more little lists with only 5 books so I don't kill your eyes, cause you will need them to read!

FIRST; Books with titles that made me want to read/buy them

1. A Love Story Starring My Dead Best Friend by Emily Horner.  I found this book at Borders before they went out of business and I mean, isn't that a great title? Well, not great as in happy, but great as in like...what-the-hell-is-gonna-happen-in-this-book-great

2. Au Revior, Crazy European Chick by Joe Schreiber. Okay, this title is just too amazing for words really.

3. The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith. HOW FUN DOES THIS BOOK SOUND!?

4. The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting. Yeah, I'm kinda morbid, but I saw this title and I was like "MINE!".

5. The Fine Art of Truth or Dare by Melissa Jensen. ANOTHER FUN SOUNDING BOOK!

SECOND; Books that shouldn't be read in public.

1. Will Grayson, Will Grayson by David Levithan and John Green.  This book had me laughing my a** off.  If you read it in public you're gonna get some weird stares, mostly stares that will be saying "what the hell is so funny!?".

2. Dash & Lily's Book Of Dares by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan. Are you seeing a theme here? David Levithan is really funny! Rachel was brilliant too, don't count her out.

3. Looking For Alaska by John Green. I cried like three times during this book, which is saying something, because very few books make me cry!

4. A Need So Beautiful by Suzanne Young. Another book that made me cry. The ending, THE ENDING!!! I kept going, "I'm not going to cry, I'm not going to cry, I'm not going to cry" and guess what, I cried.

5. The Girl Next Door by Selene Castrovilla. The ending will get you! Have you crying like a baby. Trust me, It happened to me!

EXTRA; Where The Red Fern Grows by Wilson Rawls.  I think the ending to this one was obvious from the start, and even though I've read if three times it still makes me cry every time! EVERY TIME!

THIRD; Series that I have more than one book in but still haven't read.

1. The Hunger Games Series by Suzanne Collins. Here's this series again! I have the first two because I started to read the first one, bought the second one, and then never finished the first one!

2. Vampire Kisses by Ellen Schreiber.  Okay, so this is all in one book, but still, it counts.

3. Curse Workers Series by Holly Black.  I'm listening to White Cat right now, but I have both the first and second one.  I got them so they would be signed, but I really wanted to read them, swear!

4. House of Night Series by P. C. and Kristen Cast. My mom got me the first two or three at Costco because they were cheap, and now they're just sitting on my book shelf waiting to be read.

5. The Wicked Lovely Series by Melissa Marr.  I have the first two, and they're signed. I've had them for years, at least 4.  My friend got them signed for me and I just keep putting them off, even though my friend said they were awesome.

FOURTH; Books that don't have sequels but should.

1. Shattered Souls by Mary Lindsey. I know it's not out yet, but when you read the book you'll see how much this book NEEDS a sequel! And it's not because it's unfinished, but because the story would be AWESOME even if it was continued.

2. Imaginary Girls by Nova Ren Suma. I'm sure this book was ended the way it was for a reason, open to interpretation, like the movie Inception, but I kinda want to know the TRUTH, and Nova built such a great world that I didn't want to leave and wouldn't mind coming back to.

3. Forgotten by Cat Patrick.  Another book that doesn't need a sequel to tie up loose ends, but just because the sequel would be amazing if it were written.

4. The Near Witch by Victoria Schwab.  I would really love to see how this story would continue if there was a sequel.  Would Lexi find another ghost to face, another witch?  Maybe if it was even a companion novel set in the same world?

5. Possess by Gretchen McNeil. This book MAY have a sequel, but nothing has been announced yet.  Gretchen says it will be a series, but seeing as it hasn't been contracted nothing is official yet.

FIFTH; Series I've started but not finished.

1. Vampire Academy Series by Richelle Mead.  For some reason these books didn't grab me like they did for other people, so even though I have all of them, and they're all signed too, I just see no need to finish them.  Also, I feel I know where the story went, so there is no reason for me to read them.

2. The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod by Heather Brewer.  I've only read the first book, and it's not that it wasn't bad, I just don't feel a burning desire to finish this series either.

3. The Forest of Hands and Teeth Series by Carrie Ryan.  I've read the first two, and I want to know what happens in the last one, but it's a HB book and I haven't even bought it yet, so maybe when that book comes along and finds a way to my shelves I'll read it.  This one I do want to read, I just have other books I want to read more!

4. Possessions Series by Nancy Holder.  I have the second book in this series, I bought it and everything, but again there is no dying need to read it RIGHT NOW! Although I did like the first one, very spooky.

5. Bad Girls Don't Die Series by Katie Alender.  I have an ARC of the second book AND a finished copy of the second book but I've still yet to get to it.  The finished copy is sitting only about a yard or so away from me right now, staring at me and going "you were supposed to read me" and it's making me feel bad. Maybe I should put a blanket over it so it can't see me...

SIXTH; Morbid books I own.

1. The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting. Yeah, it's a YA book, but it's about a girl who finds dead bodies, I mean, for YA that's pretty morbid, but I loved every page and can't wait for the third one!

2. Slice of Cherry by Dia Reeves.  This is about killer twins with a serial killer father.  I've heard it's gory and nasty, and that makes me want to read it even more!

3. Bleeding Violet by Dia Reeves.  Same author, same crazy mind, same basic idea, kinda nasty and not a book for everyone, but definitely one for me.

4. The Marbury Lens by Andrew Smith.  This is supposed to be a grizzly book and again I feel the need to read it.  I like grizzly.

5. The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan.  Ryan isn't afraid to kill off characters, and the book has zombies in it.  That's pretty morbid if I do say so myself.

SEVENTH; Fluffy books I own.

1. Both Stephanie Perkins books.  Yes, they're light and fluffy and I love them both very much.  I love morbid things and I love fluffy things, I'm a walking contradiction.

2. Epic Fail by Claire LeZebnic. A fluffy book with really no terribly bad stuff at all in it, and I read it in a day. Yay for happy books!

3. Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan. A happy book with music in it! This book actually has one of my favorite quotes ever in it. I just love it so much.

4. The Education of Hailey Kendrick by Eileen Cook.  This book was so much fun to read, a nice break from all of the crazier books out there.  Just a book about a girl learning to be herself.

5. Dash & Lily's Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan.  This book had me laughing from the first page and just like the other book I read by these authors was just so much fun.  A little adventure, a little romance, another great quote or two. Loved it!

EIGHTH; 24 hour reads.

1. Epic Fail by Claire LeZebnic.  Yup, this book I read in one day. It was fun and I just couldn't seem to help myself.

2. The D.U.F.F. by Kody Keplinger. I started this book on December 31st and finished it that same day.  I put it down a few times but just kept picking it right back up!  An awesome debut.

3. Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist by Rachel Cohn and David Levithan.  I read this book in 7th grade...or maybe it was 8th... This book is short, so it's not hard to believe I read it in one day.

4. Impulse by Ellen Hopkins.  It was a weekend, I read in the car, on the couch, didn't watch TV, finished it right before bed. I needed to see how it ended. It just pulled me in.

5. Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles. I read through two lunches even though I was only supposed to have one (it was an accident I swear!) and then I might have started reading it again right after I finished homework and stayed up a little past my bedtime to finish and write the review. But shh, don't tell my mom.

NINTH; Books you might not expect me to read.

1. Infected by Scott Sigler.  I saw this book at my local Barnes & Noble and I picked it up.  I have a strange fascination with crazy diseases (fictional or real), and even though it was an adult book I picked it up and  read it anyways. It was good.

2. The Silence of the Lambs by Thomas Harris.  When I was watching the movie (which is AMAZING by the way) I saw that it was based on the book, and then, because I love the movie so much, I just had to read it.  So I did.

3. The Mist by Stephen King.  My friend recommended this to me, and seeing as I'm a horror freak I had to read it.  I got it for a dollar and it took me a day to read.

4. Be More Chill by Ned Vizzini. This book is about a guy, told from a guy's point of view, and talks about sex, women, and pretty much everything else a teenage boy deals with, but I'm not a teenage boy, and this book is not as well known as his other book, but still good!

5. Rx by Tracy Lynn. Another not so well known book. It's about a high school drug dealer, and no, not illegal drugs, but prescription drugs.  I really enjoyed this book and read it years and years ago.  If you've heard of this book I'm very impressed!

TENTH; Books with rave reviews that I didn't find amazing.

1. If I Stay by Gayle Forman.  I think it's because so many people had said how amazing this book was, but it really fell short for me.  I wasn't blown away like so many other people were.

2. The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini. I had to read this for school and I know that adults just LOVE this book, but I think it's one of the most depressing books I've ever read.  I will never read it again and curse whoever it was that called this book inspirational.

3. Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead. People love these books, I just didn't.  I didn't love them when I first tried them out a good four years ago and I didn't love them when I read them because Richelle was doing a signing and the last book had come out.

4. Pulse of Heroes by A. Jacob Sweeny. This is an indie book and the author sent me a copy for review and signed it and everything.  I really wanted to love this book, I really did, because it sounded really good, but I just found the main character just a little too immature to be real. I also found it just a little slow, but don't let that stop you from picking it up and loving it!

5. The Name of the Star by Maureen Johnson. I was really excited about this book and people had been saying it was great, but I was just disappointed with the ending and how everything turned out.  I'll probably read the next one though.

Review-Crank

I read Crank for a school project, because I had it on my shelf, and because I had read and really liked the other two books I read by her, Impulse and Perfect.  I do have to admit that i didn't like this book as much as I liked the first two books I read by her, but it was still good.  The raw emotion that it portrayed was just in Ellen's style and the real life factors were right in your face.  The one thing that I couldn't seem to get past was the fact that Kristina was such an average girl, a girl so much like myself, could get dragged into such a mess to begin with.  I wanted to scream at Kristina but now that I've had time to think about it I realize that sometimes it isn't that easy, because sometimes things aren't always your choice.  Peer pressure and teenage years make you see things differently and sometimes love makes you do things that you never thought you would do.  Kristina's story was so informative, and although I did feel very much connected to her in a way I just couldn't accept some of the things she had done because the way she just gave in made no sense to me.  The one thing I don't understand is when people go into things knowing the outcome, knowing what they can do to your body.  I understand feeling the urge to continue when you've stared, but when you know something is so wrong how can you just start.  This is really a book that everyone should read because it shows you what can happen when you start something you never expect to begin.  It's a good lessen for everyone, and maybe if you can see the consequences happen to someone your own age it will stick with you longer then your parents telling you just to not do drugs because they are bad.  I can see why this book is highly controversial, but maybe if we all read things like this things would be a little different.

4/5 dust spirits