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In My Mailbox (17)

2010-06-20T11:59:00.001-05:00

In My Mailbox was started by The Story Siren and Alea from Pop Culture Junkie. If you want more details, click here. In My Mailbox explores all the books that I get in a week, whether it's in the mail, borrowed from a friend, borrowed from the library, or bought from a bookstore.

Recived:

Invisible Things by Jenny Davidson (Paperback/ HarperCollins/ December 2010/ Two Copies)

Sixteen-year-old Sophie knows there is more to the story of her parents' death. And she is on a mission to find the truth. To aid her in solving the decades-old mystery, she has enlisted her best friend, Mikael, whose friendship has turned into someone more. It's soon clear that Sophie's future is very much wrapped up in the details of her family's past, and the key lies with information only one man can provide: her parents' former employer, the elusive billionaire Alfred Nobel. But the more Sophie learns, the more she realizes that nothing- and no one- in her life is what it seems. And coming to terms with the dark secrets she uncovers means imagining a truth that she never dreamed possible. Full of gorgeour settings, thrillin adventure, and romance, INVISIBLE THINGS is a novel that dares to ask, what if?

Stranded by J.T. Dutton (Paperback/ HarperCollins/ June 2010)

Who abandoned Baby Grace?

A farmer’s discovery in his cornfield thrusts a small farm town into a raging media frenzy—and Kelly Louise into a new home. Who knew a person could feel so completely stranded somewhere with national news coverage?

How is Kelly Louise supposed to shed her virginal status when the baby in the cornfield shadows her every hair flip, every wink? And the one boy around who rates anywhere near acceptable on the Maximum Man Scale only has eyes for her cousin, Natalie (who only has eyes for Jesus).

But Natalie has a secret. Everyone is so busy burying the truth about Baby Grace, they can’t see who they’re burying alive.

Welcome to Heaven, Iowa.

I Now Pronounce You Someone Else by Erin McCahan (Paperback/ Scholastic/ June 2010)

Seventeen-year-old Bronwen Oliver doesn't just want a family. She has one of those, and there's nothing terribly wrong with them apart from bickering grandparents, an image-obsessed mother and a brother she describes simply as Jesus. But there's no natural sense of connection between Bronwen and her family, leaving her with the belief -- and the hope -- that she was switched at birth, that she was never supposed to be Bronwen Oliver but someone else entirely.

When she begins dating college senior Jared Sondervan, she finds herself thoroughly embraced by the loving family she has always wanted and does not hesitate to say yes when Jared proposes on her 18th birhday. Plans for the Perfect Beach Wedding before her junior year of college become plans for the Perfect Beach Wedding before her freshman year of college. And a wedding so soon isn't exactly what Bronwen wants. But Jared is. And his family is. Or so she thinks.

Before Bronwen can determine what she truly wants, she must first determine who she truly is, and the answer, she discovers, is only partially what she thought it was. She wasn't switched at birth, but she's also not Bronwen Oliver and hasn't been for a very long time.

Sellout by Ebony Joy Wilkins (Paperback/ Scholastic/ July 2010)

NaTasha has a wonderful life in affluent Park Adams. She fits in, she has friends, and she's a member of the all-white ballet troupe. Being nearly the only African American in her school doesn't bother NaTasha. But it bothers Tilly, NaTasha's spitfire grandmother from Harlem, who decides NaTasha needs to get back to her roots or her granddaughter is in danger of losing herself completely. Tilly whisks NaTasha away to a world where all of a sudden nothing in NaTasha's life makes any sense: Harlem and Comfort Zone in the Bronx, a crisis center where (cont'd)
Tilly volunteers her time to help troubled girls get on the right track. Girls who are completely unlike anyone NaTasha has ever encountered. These girls are rough, beautiful, streetwise, sure of themselves, and wield their secrets like knives--and they dislike NaTasha and her world of privilege with a passion.

If there is ever a time when NaTasha feels like running away from something, now is it. But she doesn't. She stands her ground. And what she discovers surprises everyone, especially NaTasha.

The Six Rules of Maybe by Deb Caletti (Hardback/ Simon & Schuster/ March 2010/ Two Copies)

Scarlet spends most of her time worrying about other people. Some are her friends, others are practically strangers, and then there are the ones no one else even notices. Trying to fix there lives comes naturally to her. And pushing her own needs to the side is part of the deal.

So when her older sister comes home unexpectedly married and pregnant, Scarlet has a new person to worry about. But all of her good intentions are shattered when the unthinkable happens: She falls for her sister's husband. For the first time in a long time, Scarlet's not fixing a problem, she's at the center of one. And ignoring her feelings doesn't seem to be an option.

And Then I Found Out the Truth by Jennifer Sturman (Paperback/ Scholastic/ July 2010)

Delia Truesdale is still searching for the truth about her mother, who is in hiding somewhere in South America. But for now, Delia has to make do with her mystery-solving in New York City, alongside her Aunt Charley (a downtown hipster), her Aunt Patience(an uptown ice queen), a detective with a questionable taste in neckties, an eccentric psychic, her brainiac friend, and Quinn, the wealthy, gorgeous boy who--gasp!-- seems to return Delia's affections. Too bad Quinn's shady CEO dad may be involved in the scheme Delia is trying to crack. And a trip to South America may be in order after all.

Plain Kate by Erin Bow (Paperback/ Scholastic/ September 2010)

Plain Kate lives in a world of superstitions and curses, where a song can heal a wound and a shadow can work deep magic. As the wood-carver's daughter, Kate held a carving knife before a spoon, and her wooden talismans are so fine that some even call her “witch-blade”: a dangerous nickname in a country where witches are hunted and burned in the square.

For Kate and her village have fallen on hard times. Kate’s father has died, leaving her alone in the world. And a mysterious fog now covers the countryside, ruining crops and spreading fear of hunger and sickness. The townspeople are looking for someone to blame, and their eyes have fallen on Kate.

Enter Linay, a stranger with a proposition: In exchange for her shadow, he’ll give Kate the means to escape the angry town, and what’s more, he’ll grant her heart’s wish. It’s a chance for her to start over, to find a home, a family, a place to belong. But Kate soon realizes she can't live shadowless forever -- and that Linay's designs are darker than she ever dreamed.

Grace by Elizabeth Scott (Paperback/ Dutton Books/ September 2010)

A fable of a terrifying near future by critically acclaimed author Elizabeth Scott.

Grace was raised to be an Angel, a herald of death by suicide bomb. But she refuses to die for the cause, and now Grace is on the run, daring to dream of freedom. In search of a border she may never reach, she travels among malevolent soldiers on a decrepit train crawling through the desert. Accompanied by the mysterious Kerr, Grace struggles to be invisible, but the fear of discovery looms large as she recalls the history and events that delivered her uncertain fate.

Told in spare, powerful prose, this tale of a dystopian near future will haunt readers long after they've reached the final page.

You Wish by Mandy Hubbard (Paperback/ Penguin Group/ August 2010)

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

Kayla wakes the next day to a life-sized, bright pink My Little Pony outside her window. Then a year’s supply of gumballs arrives. And a boy named Ken with a disturbing resemblance to the doll of same name stalks her. As the ghosts of Kayla’s wishes-past appear, they take her on a wild ride… but they MUST STOP. Because when she was 15? She wished Ben Mackenzie would kiss her.

And Ben is her best friend's boyfriend.

Lifted by Wendy Toliver (Paperback/ Simon and Schuster/ June 2010)

Poppy isn’t happy with her single mother for moving her to Texas and enrolling the decidedly secular 16-year-old in a private Baptist high school. Soon, however, she becomes fascinated with the two most elite girls in class. Befriended, she ignores (to her later peril) her initial contact at Calvary High, the frumpy Bridgette. Instead, Poppy becomes caught up in whirlwind mall trips; her new friends, despite their pious attitudes, are shoplifters. Toliver does a good job of making clear the thefts are less about the desire for things like designer jeans than about the adrenaline rush of getting away with something. She is also sensitive to the school’s core values while still making clear the hypocrisy of people who hide behind veneers of holiness. Especially well drawn is Poppy’s crush, a quirky, sincere minister’s son, who—as Poppy’s world spins out of control—comforts her with unconditional support: We all make mistakes. It says so in the Bible, so it’s gotta be true. Will appeal to all teens interested in wayward behavior.

Wildwing by Emily Whitman (Paperback/ HarperCollins/ October 2010)

Addy knows there's so much more to life than what she has. She must be destined for more than being a maid to an eccentric elderly man. And so when she finds a mysterious contraption in the gentleman's study, of course she steps inside. Of course she bumps into the wrong button. Suddenly Addy is in medieval England, mistaken for the young woman betrothed to the lord of the nearby manor. It's destiny. But is it home? And will she ever find her way back to her own time? Will she want to, once she's met the shy, handsome falconer's apprentice?

The White Horse Trick by Kate Thompson (Paperback/ HarperCollins/ September 2010)

It is the latter part of the 21st century, and dramatic climate change has made life in Ireland almost impossible. Meanwhile, Tir na n'Og is faced with a refugee problem, and the king of the fairies is not happy about it and when it is revealed that the warlord who is behind the problem is a member of the Liddy family, JJ is sent to sort him out...Following on from The New Policeman and The Last of the High Kings, The White Horse Trick travels from the now to far distant futures: from world's end to world's beginning..

-Lexi (:

Update!

2010-06-17T15:56:00.002-05:00

Hey guys! I've been majorly slacking on my blog lately and I feel horrible about it!

I got so busy with school and preparing for finals, that after school, I was totally just out of the whole blogging thing.

BUT I'M BACK NOW. (:

So here's a little list of what you should be expecting!

Reviews:

Swoon at Your Own Risk by Sydney Salter
The Six Rules of Maybe by Deb Caletti
House Rules by Jodi Picoult
Snap by Carol Snow
Dawn by Kevin Brooks
Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick
Airhead by Deb Cabot
The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks
I Know It's Over by C. K. Kelly Martin
Twenty Boy Summer by Sarah Ockler
Hate List by Jennifer Brown

Posts:

In My Mailbox
Review Rewind
Old vs. New
GIVEAWAYS
Author Guest Posts

I have a lot of fun stuff planned for my blog this summer so keep checking back! I wouldn't want you to miss a giveaway! (:

Oh! And I have some exciting news.. After my mom found out how well I did in school this year and on my finals... She bought me a Sony Reader! I've already read 3 books on it, I'm in love with it. (:

- Lexi (:

Review Rewind (5)

2010-04-30T10:00:00.000-05:00

Hosted by Ashley at Books Make Great Lovers.

So, in this post I'm just going to link some of my reviews that never got any comments or reviews that only got one comment. I think that everyone should have the chance to see them and be reminded of the good books that aren't so new!

Review Rewind (1)

Review Rewind (2)

Review Rewind (3)

Review Rewind (4)

The Exile of Gigi Lane by Adrienne Maria Vrettos.
4 Star review.

Sing Me To Sleep by Angela Morrison.
4 Star review.

Love You Hate You Miss You by Elizabeth Scott.
4 Star review.

Kiss Me Kill Me by Lauren Henderson.
2.5 Star review.

Thanks guys!

-Lexi (:

Old vs. New

2010-04-29T10:00:00.000-05:00

The book I choose for this week is Taken By Storm by Angela Morrison.

I reveiewed this book awhile ago, if you want to read my review just click here.

And Angela Morrison also did a guest blog, if you would like to read it click here.

For this post, I'll be showing you the US hardback cover and the US paperback cover.

Old Cover:
Also the US hardback.

I really like this cover. The effect of the boy and girl looking at each other like you caught then in a moment, is nice touch. I also really like the colors. They fit the cover well.

New Cover:
Also the US paperback.

I actually don't like this cover as much as I like the Old Cover. I think this one is kind of cheesy with the boy and girl standing apart and sort of reaching towards each other. It goes the main plot of the novel well, but it's not appealing to the eye. The colors on the other hand, add detail to the cover.

The winner for this week, is the old cover/US hardback. I like the colors and how the boy and girl are facing each other more.

But this post isn't just about me, leave a comment and tell me what your favorite cover was this week!

-Lexi (:

Review Rewind (4)

2010-04-23T10:00:00.001-05:00

Hosted by Ashley at Books Make Great Lovers.

So, in this post I'm just going to link some of my reviews that never got any comments or reviews that only got one comment. I think that everyone should have the chance to see them and be reminded of the good books that aren't so new!

Review Rewind (1)

Review Rewind (2)

Review Rewind (3)

Deadly Little Secret by Laurie Faria Stolarz.
5 Star review.

Lost It by Kristen Tracy.
4.5 Star review.

After Ever After by Jordan Sonnenblick.
3.5 Star review.

The Life of Glass by Jillian Cantor.
3.5 Star review.

Switch by Carol Snow.
3 Star review.

Thanks guys!

-Lexi (:

Old vs. New

2010-04-22T10:00:00.006-05:00

The book I chose for this week is If I Stay by Gayle Forman.

I reviewed this book awhile ago, if you want to read my review just click here.

For this week, I'll be posting the hardback and two other covers that I think are the paperback and UK versions.

Old Cover:
Also the US hardback.

I love the simplicity of this cover. You can just let your imagination run wild about the characters, the setting.. pretty much every part of this book can have whatever picture in your mind that you want it to have.

New Cover:
Also the US paperback.

(The only picture of this cover that I could find was from Amazon.com so it's not that great.)
I don't love this cover as much as the first one, but it deffinitly has a lot of character to it. The dark colors, the mist, the way the girl's face looks all say something about what If I Stay is about. It depicts the novel very well, but it a subtle way.

Another New Cover:
Also the UK cover.

I like this cover about as much as I love the first one. This cover is very nicely donw. I love how there is a slight effect of snow and how it looks like the girl is almost floating without even really noticing. Personally, I think that this cover shows more of the feeling this novel gives you.

This week, I think my favorite cover is... the new cover, also knows as the UK cover!

I think it had a very fun side to it yet it showed the seriousness of the novel.

But this post isn't just about me, leave a comment and tell me what you're favorite cover was!

-Lexi (:

In My Mailbox (4/12 - 4/18)

2010-04-18T10:00:00.000-05:00

In My Mailbox was started by The Story Siren and Alea from Pop Culture Junkie. If you want more details, click here. In My Mailbox explores all the books that I get in a week, whether it's in the mail, borrowed from a friend, borrowed from the library, or bought from a bookstore.

Recived:

The Deadly Sister by Eliot Schrefer (Paperback/ HarperCollins/ May 2010)

Abby Goodwin is sure her sister Maya isn't a murderer. But her parents don't agree. Her friends don't agree. And the cops definitely don't agree. Maya is a drop-out, a stoner, a girl who's obsessed with her tutor, Jefferson Andrews...until he ends up dead. Maya runs away, and leaves Abby following the trail of clues. Each piece of evidence points to Maya, but it also appears that Jefferson had secrets of his own. And enemies. Like his brother, who Abby becomes involved with...until he falls under suspicion.

Is Abby getting closer to finding the true murderer? Or is someone leading her down a twisted false path?

Compromised by Heidi Ayarbe (Paperback/ HarperCollins/ May 2010)

With a con-man dad and a long-gone mom, the only thing that makes sense to Maya is science. In fact, every time her dad’s cons go wrong, she has a scientific way to fix it, to keep both of them safe and together.

Only this time Maya’s scientific method doesn’t work. She finds herself stuck in an orphanage, and then living on the street, where scientific laws don’t apply, with two unlikely allies, and she has to learn to live on instinct alone. But when Maya goes off in search of an aunt she’s never met in hopes of finding some semblance of stability in her chaotic world, she finds something even more important: her own strength.

Alex Van Helsing: Vampire Rising by Jason Henderson (Paperback/ HarperCollins/ May 2010)

A descendant of legendary vampire hunter Abraham Van Helsing, fourteen-year-old Alex is stuck at boarding school near Lake Geneva, Switzerland, when he finds himself drawn into a web of paranormal intrigue. It turns out that Lake Geneva is also home to a secret school for vampires called the Scholomance—and now to a dangerous vampire clan lord known only as Icemaker, who’s using the Scholomance for his own dangerous endgame. With the help of his friends and of special agent Sangster, it’s up to Alex to fulfill his family destiny and stop Icemaker’s frightening plans once and for all.

Alex Van Helsing is a showstopping hero set to leap off the page—stake, naturally, in hand. Drawing from centuries of actual vampire lore and literature (and with a nod to zombies, too!), Jason Henderson delivers a breathlessly paced thriller that will captivate vampire fans as well as readers who loved Alex Rider.

Mistwood by Leah Cypess (Paperback/ HarperCollins/ May 2010)

The Shifter is an immortal creature bound by an ancient spell to protect the kings of Samorna. When the realm is peaceful, she retreats to the Mistwood. But when she is needed she always comes.Isabel remembers nothing. Nothing before the prince rode into her forest to take her back to the castle. Nothing about who she is supposed to be, or the powers she is supposed to have.Prince Rokan needs Isabel to be his Shifter. He needs her ability to shift to animal form, to wind, to mist. He needs her lethal speed and superhuman strength. And he needs her loyalty-because without it, she may be his greatest threat.Isabel knows that her prince is lying to her, but she can't help wanting to protect him from the dangers and intrigues of the court . . . until a deadly truth shatters the bond between them.Now Isabel faces a choice that threatens her loyalty, her heart . . . and everything she thought she knew.

Brilliant by Rachel Vail (Paperback/ HarperCollins/ June 2010)

Everything is going to be fine . . . .Quinn Avery can handle change. It's just paint, right? Bright, blinding white paint covering her once dazzling red bedroom walls. Quinn knows she shouldn't be angry at her mom-she's doing what she must to sell the house-but still, Quinn is beyond mad, and she doesn't know what to do about it.Until now, Quinn was doing a pretty good job at pretending to be her old self-calm and brilliant Avery daughter, responsible big sister to Allison and Phoebe, piano virtuoso, girl who makes everyone proud-but without the sanctuary of her room, a new, wild Quinn is emerging. Lying, sneaking out, partying, Quinn is practically asking to get caught. When Quinn adds kissing the wrong boys-including her sister's boyfriend and her own piano teacher-to her list of crimes, has she gone too far to save herself?Brilliant, the final book in Rachel Vail's critically acclaimed sisterhood series, which includes Lucky and Gorgeous, follows Quinn through a summer of change as she discovers that while letting go is never easy, hanging on can be even harder. Witty and poignant, Brilliant is the perfect ending to this addictive trilogy of interconnected sister stories.

Wayfarer by R.J. Anderson (Paperback/ HarperCollins/ May 2010)

The faeries of the Oak are dying, and it’s up to a lone faery named Linden to find a way to restore their magic. Linden travels bravely into dangerous new territory, where she enlists the help of an unlikely friend—a human named Timothy. Soon they discover something much worse than the Oakenfolk’s loss of magic: a potent evil that threatens the fate of all faeries. In a fevered, desperate chase across the country, Timothy and Linden risk their lives to seek an ancient power before it’s too late to save everyone they love.

R. J. Anderson has artfully crafted a world of stunning magic, thrilling adventure, and delicate beauty, where a girl far from home must defeat the pervasive evil befalling her beloved faery realm.

Bullet Point by Peter Abrahams (Paperback/ HarperCollins/ May 2010)

Wyatt never really thought much about his dad-a hardened criminal, a lifer in a prison somewhere on the other side of the state. But then the economy had to go and tank, and the community had to go and cut the baseball program from Wyatt's high school. And then the coach had to go and show Wyatt a photograph of his dad at sixteen, looking very much like Wyatt himself. Through a series of unfortunate-or perhaps they were fortunate-events, Wyatt meets a crazy-hot girl named Greer with a criminal dad of her own. A criminal dad who is, in fact, in jail with Wyatt's own criminal dad. Greer arranges a meeting, and Wyatt's dad is nothing like the guy he's imagined-he's suave, and smart, and funny, and cool, and-Wyatt's pretty sure-innocent. So Wyatt decides to help him out. A decision that may possibly be the worst he's ever made in his life.This is another hold-your-breath thriller by the New York Times bestselling and Edgar Award nominated Peter Abrahams.

Forgive My Fins by Tera Lynn Childs (Paperback/ HarperCollins/ June 2010)

Lily Sanderson has a secret, and it’s not that she has a huge crush on gorgeous swimming god Brody Bennett, who makes her heart beat flipper-fast. Unrequited love is hard enough when you’re a normal teenage girl, but when you’re half human, half mermaid like Lily, there’s no such thing as a simple crush.

Lily’s mermaid identity is a secret that can’t get out, since she’s not just any mermaid – she’s a Thalassinian princess. When Lily found out three years ago that her mother was actually a human, she finally realized why she didn’t feel quite at home in Thalassinia, and she’s been living on land and going to Seaview high school ever since, hoping to find where she truly belongs. Sure, land has its problems – like her obnoxious, biker boy neighbor Quince Fletcher – but it has that one major perk – Brody. The problem is, mermaids aren’t really the casual dating type – when they “bond,” it’s for life.

When Lily’s attempt to win Brody’s love leads to a tsunami-sized case of mistaken identity, she is in for a tidal wave of relationship drama, and she finds out, quick as a tailfin flick, that happily-ever-after never sails quite as smoothly as you planned.

Summer of the Geek by Piper Banks (Paperback/ New American Library/ May 2010)

The third compulsively readable book in the smart and witty series about a high school for gifted students. Miranda Bloom has scored an adorable, lacrosse-playing boyfriend, Dex McConnell, and an awesomely easy summer job looking after a ten year old mini-genius, Amelia. This summer is going to be sweet... Then reality puts the brakes on everything. Though Dex and Miranda are official, she feels like he's keeping secrets-secrets that may have to do with his fashion model ex-girlfriend. Meanwhile, Amelia is harder to figure out than advanced trigonometry. How can they bond if all she does is practice the piano? Plus Miranda's mom just invited her to live in London with her. Living across the pond would be great, but can she really leave Geek High andDex? Looks like Miranda has a secret of her own...

Hothouse by Chris Lynch (Paperback/ HarperCollins/ August 2010)

Sorry guys, I couldn't find a picture or a summary.

Life, After by Sarah Darer Littman (Paperback/ Scholastic Press/ July 2010)

After a terrorist attack kills Dani's aunt and unborn cousin, life in Argentina--private school, a boyfriend, a loving family--crumbles quickly. In order to escape a country that is sinking under their feet, Dani and her family move to the United States. It's supposed to be a fresh start, but when you're living in a cramped apartment and going to high school where all the classes are in another language--and not everyone is friendly--life in America is not all it's cracked up to be. Dani misses her old friends, her life, Before.

But then Dani meets a boy named Jon, who isn't like all the other students. Through him, she becomes friends with Jessica, one of the popular girls, who is harboring a secret of her own. And then there's Brian, the boy who makes Dani's pulse race. In her new life, the one After, Dani learns how to heal and forgive. She finds the courage to say goodbye and allows herself to love and be loved again.

Borderline by Allan Stratton (Hardback/ HarperCollins/ March 2010)
Fifteen-year-old Sami Sabiri is a typical suburban teen. He is a good student, has a close group of friends, and struggles to live up to his father's expectations. He faces some bullying at school because of his Muslim faith, and does not get the support from the administration to stop it. When his dad cancels a planned trip to Toronto with him, Sami begins to suspect he might be having an affair. He checks up on him and unknowingly stirs up a completely different investigation of the man's behavior. Is Sami's dad a terrorist? What ensues is a tautly paced thriller with well-crafted characters and realistic teen dialogue. It is the plausibility of the plotline that makes it, ultimately, so disturbing. The FBI breaks into the Sabiris' house one night, destroys their belongings, and takes Sami's father away. The teen's troubles at school are neatly juxtaposed with the assumptions made by the FBI about his dad, and ultimately lead toward a positive resolution to Sami's relationship with his father. This is a great, fast-paced read that will have particular appeal to fans of the television show 24. It is also notable for its characterization of a strong male Muslim who is true to his faith and struggles to do the right thing throughout. While the cover art is not compelling, this title will make an excellent booktalk. Once it finds its way into the hands of teens, word of mouth will ensure that it circulates.

Linger by Maggie Stiefvater (Paperback/ Scholastic Press/ July 2010)

In Maggie Stiefvater's "Shiver," Grace and Sam found each other. Now, in "Linger," they must fight to be together. For Grace, this means defying her parents and keeping a very dangerous secret about her own well-being. For Sam, this means grappling with his werewolf past . . . and figuring out a way to survive into the future. Add into the mix a new wolf named Cole, whose own past has the potential to destroy the whole pack. And Isabelle, who already lost her brother to the wolves . . . and is nonetheless drawn to Cole.

At turns harrowing and euphoric, "Linger "is a spellbinding love story that explores both sides of love -- the light and the dark, the warm and the cold -- in a way you will never forget.

-Lexi (:

Angela Morrison Guest Blog

2010-04-06T10:00:00.000-05:00

Today, we have a special guest: Angela Morrison.

Her novel, Sing Me To Sleep, was recently published.

I had the opprotunity to read and review this book before it's publication, if you would like to read my review, just click here!

Now, on with the post!

Thanks, Lexi, for hosting my blog tour today. You are my second to the last stop. I've visited 25 blogs--you are the 26th. The YA book blogging community has given SING ME TO SLEEP a fantastic kick-off. It's doing really well. And I've had a great time visiting with followers from all over the world. So much positive energy. Writing takes a lot of alone time. My kids think I'm a total hermit. It's been wonderful to crawl out of my cave and get to chat with readers and bloggers.

Lexi let me choose my topic today. I wanted to leave you with something new. I've been mulling over a post on the art of cutting (your manuscript ONLY, not the other kind) and how it evolves when you work with an editor for my website's liv2writ blog so I thought I'd preview it here.

I learned my first lessons in cutting from the brilliant pen of Ron Koertge, my first MFA advisor at Vermont College of the Fine Arts. He's a poet and YA novelist (see STONER & SPAZ, etc.) His writing is incredibly succinct--vivid, tight scenes you can step into. He taught me about the dribble effect. I had a tendency to ruin the power of a scene or chapter by dribbling PAST the dramatic point where the scene should stop. This is a common problem in first drafts. Easy fix with Ron's pen to X out the dribble. I got better at doing it myself, too. If you cut the boring tying up stuff--leave the reader wanting more--and jump to the next scene at the start of the next chapter, it makes such a difference.

Ron challenged me to cut entire scenes and chapters that weren't working. It's hard to let go of those words you've sweated out of your creative soul and artfully arranged on the page--but it's a critical skill. I resisted, rewrote, and then finally agreed with Ron. Tough to do, but when it came to working with an editor, I was thankful I'd learned those lessons.

By the time I sold TAKEN BY STORM it was seriously over weight--closing in on 90,000 words. My editor, Lexa Hillyer, who recently left Razorbill to start her own literary development company, Paper Lanterns, Inc., wanted me to cut a third of the novel. Yikes. Some of my favorite scenes and chapters got the ax. Lexa encouraged me to save them for the sequel we planned. (See UNBROKEN CONNECTION.) I used some of that material in UNBROKEN CONNECTION, but many of those scenes will only see the light of day if I ever get around to posting them on my blog.

When I wrote SING ME TO SLEEP, I was prepared to get out the hatchet again. This time, though, Lexa needed me to add scenes. She just asked for one big cut--the epilogue.

I wrote the epilogue in response to my daughter's critique of the ending. She thought it was too abrupt--felt readers needed a bit more denouement. Without her choir experiences and friendships, there wouldn't be a SING ME TO SLEEP, so I wrote short epilogue.

Beth's future surprised even me. I was so proud of her and where the journey she takes in SING leads her.

Lexa's publisher (the boss) objected to the switch to an adult tone and voice, so I agreed to cut it.

One of my favorite novels is Katherine Paterson's JACOB HAVE I LOVED. And my favorite part of that novel is the epilogue--where Louise is delivering babies in Appalachia. I suppose I intuitively wanted to give readers a similar look at Beth in the future as an adult. Not just a few weeks or months down the road.

Perhaps I should have fought harder to keep it in. Lexa suggested I post it on my website as a reader extra--which I've done--so AFTER you've read SING ME TO SLEEP, be sure to visit my ChatSpot Blog and read it and the tributes there. But it isn't the same as having the true beauty Beth becomes as the closing scene the reader walks away with.

Hmm . . . maybe if I'm a really good little author they'll put it back in for the paperback.

Thanks again, Lexi for all your support. If your followers have questions, I'd be happy to stop back in and answer them. Oh, and for all of you who loved the trailer soundtrack, "Beth's Song" is NOW ON ITUNES!!!

All best,

Angela

Thanks for the visit, Angela.

If you have any questions, just leave them in a comment and I will be sure to pass them on!

-Lexi (:

Kiss Me Kill Me by Lauren Henderson

2010-03-15T10:00:00.000-05:00

Pub Date: January 2008

Summary: What do you do when your past suddenly catches up with you?

Scarlett Wakefield has to transfer from her posh private school, St. Tabby’s, to Wakefield Hall Collegiate, a world-renowned prep school that her grandmother runs.

The only thing Scarlett cares about is that no one at her new school knows her dark secret and past.

A few months before transferring schools, Scarlett got invited to an elite part by Plum Saybourne, the queen of St. Tabby’s.

The guest list was full of the hottest names in their society, including Dan McAndrew.

Scarlett’s secret crush.

She has always wondered what it would be like to kiss Dan.

Once they were on the penthouse terrace, she no longer had to wonder.

Dan leaned into kiss her.

It was perfect and magical.

Until, Dan McAndrew suffocated in her arms.

No one knows why or how he died but they all think Scarlett had something to do with it.

All Scarlett wants to do now is forget it ever happened.

Only she can’t.

Scarlett receives an anonymous note.

It says, it wasn’t your fault.

Now Scarlett is on a mission to clear her name and find out what really happened to the first boy she ever kissed.

Rating: 2.5 Stars

Review: Kiss Me Kill Me was not at all what I expected. I had an idea of the plot and such, but I really wasn’t sure. I bought it more on a whim and I wish I hadn’t. Although I did like Scarlett as a character, I didn’t really like all of the other characters. Well at St. Tabby’s that is. Once Scarlett got to Wakefield Hall Collegiate, I found most of the girls a lot more likeable. The mystery of what happened to Dan seemed like it was a big thing at the beginning and the end of the novel. But at the middle, it all seemed pushed aside. It was never really addressed fully until the end of the novel where the whole mystery was simply wrapped up in about 2 or 3 chapters. For me, that was the point when I really started to not like this book. What seemed like it would be an important thing in the story was, then wasn’t, then was, then wasn’t. Sadly I don’t think I would recommend Kiss Me Kill Me to many people.

-Lexi (:

Love You Hate You Miss You by Elizabeth Scott

2010-03-13T10:00:00.000-06:00

Pub Date: June 2009

Summary: How are you supposed to move on after your best friend dies and it’s your fault?

Amy is getting sick of a lot of things.

Her parents suddenly caring. People asking her about Julia.

Amy doesn’t want to talk about Julia.

She was her best friend and how she’s gone.

Amy knows people won’t understand what it’s like for her.

What it’s like to have your best friend ripped away from you.

What it’s like to lose the one thing you really cared about.

What it’s like to lost the one person you would do anything for.

They wouldn’t know what it’s like to know that all of that is your fault.

Her shrinks told her to keep a journal, but of course she didn’t listen.

Amy starts writing letters to Julia instead.

But as she writes, Amy realizes that maybe the past she had with Julia wasn’t as perfect as she thought it was.

Maybe Amy needs to give the present a chance instead of always pushing things away.

Rating: 4 Stars

Review: Love You Hate You Miss You is the first novel by Elizabeth Scott that I have really liked reading. Amy was a really unique character. You could tell within the first few pages that the relationship she shared with Julia was very special and it meant a lot to her. You could also tell that Amy did blame herself for the death of Julia. I didn’t really like Amy at some parts but when I did like her, I could really relate to her. I understood how she felt about drinking and parties, guys and sex. A lot of the time I thought that she was very confused and unsure about the things that were going on around her. She felt empty and alone without Julia. Amy didn’t think anyone could fix that for her. But towards the end, a guy comes into her life and makes Amy feel things that she hasn’t ever felt before. The ending of Love You Hate You Miss You is sort of bittersweet in some ways. I really recommend this book. Now I just need to go out and buy my own copy so I can read it again whenever I want to.

-Lexi (:

Review Rewind (3)

2010-03-12T10:00:00.002-06:00

Hosted by Ashley at Books Make Great Lovers.

So, in this post I'm just going to link some of my reviews that never got any comments or reviews that only got one comment. I think that everyone should have the chance to see them and be reminded of the good books that aren't so new!

Review Rewind (1)

Review Rewind (2)

As You Wish by Jackson Pearce
3 Star review.

In a Heartbeat by Loretta Ellsworth
3.5 Star review.

Secret Society by Tom Dolby
4 Star review.

Invisible I: The Amanda Project by Stella Lennon
3.5 Star review.

Thanks guy!

-Lexi (:

Old vs. New

2010-03-11T10:00:00.002-06:00

The book I choose for this week is Willow by Julia Hoban.

I recently review this book, and I loved it! If you want to read and comment my review just click here.

For this review, I'll be posting the US cover and the UK cover.

Old Cover:
Also the US cover.

I absolutely love this cover. I love how the face is tilted down and it looks like the cover has been cut. To me, it fits the book and Willow well.

New Cover:
Also the UK cover.

Now, I do like this cover just not as much as the other one. I also don't like the new title of the book. I think Scarred just gives a little too much away about the book. I also don't like how the girl on the cover seems to be crying and the background is so dirty but yet her dress is still very yellow.

This week, my favorite cover has to be the old cover/the US one.

But tell me which one was your favorite this week!

-Lexi (:

Sing Me to Sleep by Angela Morrison

2010-03-10T10:00:00.000-06:00

Pub Date: March 2010

Summary: Beth has always been known as, “The Beast”.

Height. Scars. Glasses.

Those are only some of the things that make people scared of Beth.

She only has one true friend, a geek named Scott.

That is until Beth is chosen for her choir’s soloist.

She receives the makeover of her life and now everyone loves her.

Or wants a piece of her.

On a trip to Switzerland, Beth meets Derek.

He seems perfect, maybe too perfect.

Derek soon helps Beth realize that she too can find love.

In Derek’s eyes, she is beautiful.

No longer a beast.

After a confession from Scott, Beth’s heart is torn in two.

If that doesn’t change things, Derek has a secret that could shatter everything.

Should Beth choose sweet and steady or danger and passion?

Rating: 4 Stars

Review: Sing Me to Sleep is the second novel that I’ve read by Angela Morrison and I have to say, I really like her as an author. She comes up with not so new plots but really makes them her own. From the first page, I found myself pulled into this novel. Even though I knew in my head that I couldn’t really relate with Beth, I FELT like I could. I think knowing you can’t but actually feeling like you can is very different. It takes a very skilled author to create a feeling like that. I was so happy for Beth when she actually found someone that liked her for her because I know what that feels like. But at first, I wasn’t so sure if things were going to work out with Derek. I thought “Hmm, he lives somewhere else. That couldn’t be easy for them. But it would be easier for him to end contact with her if he wanted.” Once this the relationship between Beth and Derek really started, my mind completely changed. I was happy for them but I really wanted what was going on behind closed doors with Derek, as Beth did also. The end of Sing Me to Sleep played out very nicely. The ending was so cute and had so much personality. I could tell that Beth and Derek would be headed in a very good direction with each other.

-Lexi (:

FTC: I received this novel from its publishing company/author with the understanding that I would provide an honest review. I am not getting paid in any way for writing and posting this review.

The Exile of Gigi Lane by Adrienne Maria Vrettos

2010-03-08T10:00:00.000-06:00

Pub Date: April 2010

Summary: My name’s Gigi Lane. You wish you were me.

You can call it whatever you want, but everyone knows it’s true.

Gigi Lane is about to be crowned Head Hottie of the infamous Hot Spot.

It’s her job to keep the other girls at Swan’s Lake Country Day School in line.

She’s strict. She’s bossy.

Gigi Lane can’t wait for the night of the Founder’s Ball.

Everyone knows it’s when the new Hot Spot is announced in front of everyone.

But that night, one girl exposes Gigi for what she really is.

A Mean Girl.

Gigi’s world slowly starts to fall apart in just one night.

She ends up at the bottom of the social scale, struggling to find a place for herself.

Somewhere she’s never been before, something she’s never had to do before

Rating: 4 Stars

Review: I’m not quite sure what to say about The Exile of Gigi Lane and I don’t mean this in a bad way. I simply mean, where do I start?There’s a lot to say about this book, its characters, and the plot. Most of it is positive too! Hence the 4 stars I gave it. I loved Gigi, she was one of the best characters in awhile even thought she was kind of stuck up. Her and her friends thought they had it all until someone decided to put them in their place which I can say doesn’t happen all that often in high school. But this book is mostly about how Gigi struggles to make it back to the top of the social scale. This for her is a very hard task. The people who loved her now hate her. The people who hated her now hate her even more. I could feel myself connect with Gigi in some ways, but not in all of them. I myself have never been very popular, but I know what it’s like to try to fit in. Sometimes it’s hard. But you’re true friends will always be there for you in the end. That’s that one thing that Adrienne Maria Vrettos really showed in her novel The Exile of Gigi Lane.

-Lexi (:

FTC: I received this novel from its publishing company/author with the understanding that I would provide an honest review. I am not getting paid in any way for writing and posting this review.

Willow by Julia Hoban

2010-03-06T10:00:00.001-06:00

Pub Date: April 2009

Summary: Some secrets are hard to keep, especially is they aren’t easily hidden.

Seven months ago, Willow’s parents were killed in a car accident.

She blames herself for losing control of the car, even though it wasn’t her choice to drive home.

Now as a seventeen year old, Willow finds herself living with her older brother.

Who barely speaks to her.

Willow has had to leave behind everything she knows.

Her home. Her friends. Her school.

But somehow, Willow has found away to survive.

She has found something that numbs her from the world around her.

But, it’s something she has to keep secret.

Willow has begun to cut herself.

Then Guy comes into her life.

He soon discovers her secret and makes it his mission to help her, to stop her.

Rating: 4.5 Stars

Review: I thoroughly enjoyed reading Willow. Willow had to be one of the best characters yet. I could relate to her in so many ways. I myself use to have a serious problem with cutting and all throughout the novel, I knew exactly how Willow felt. The guilt, the pain she was causing other, the numbness. I knew it all too well and I felt bad for her. But I also knew that once Guy came into her life everything would change. He wanted to help Willow so bad but she didn’t make it easy for him. She didn’t want help. The relationship and loved between Guy and Willow really developed before your eyes. You saw him fall for her first from the first minute he met her. But for her, falling for him and letting him wasn’t easy. In the end, everything fell together. Guy wasn’t the only person Willow had though. She had her brother but she thought she hated him. When he really didn’t, he loved her more after the accident. Once Willow became friends with Guy, she became friends with his friends too. This meant girlfriends who she could go shopping with and get advice from about guys. Willow never had that after moving away from home. For me, the ending was almost beautiful in a way. I really recommend Willow, I think I’m going to have to read it again very soon.

-Lexi (:

Review Rewind (2)

2010-03-05T10:00:00.000-06:00

Hosted by Ashley at Books Make Great Lovers.

So, in this post I'm just going to link some of my reviews that never got any comments or reviews that only got one comment. I think that everyone should have the chance to see them and be reminded of the good books that aren't so new!

Review Rewind (1)

My Big Nose and Other Natural Disasters by Sydney Salter
The first book I've read by Sydney Salter.

Blue Moon by Alyson Noel
Part of the Immortals series.

Giving Up The V by Serena Robar
A good book about your first time.

Thanks guy!

-Lexi (:

Old vs. New

2010-03-04T10:00:00.001-06:00

The book I choose for this week is I Know It's Over by CK Kelly Martin.

I have not yet reviewed this book, but I will as soon as I get the chance.

Andddd, here we gooo!

Old Cover:

I really like this cover. I think what I like is how she's walking away, hence the title.

New Cover:

I don't think this picture fits the title as well as the first one.

My favortie of the two would probably have to be the old cover.

But tell me what you think!

-Lexi (:

Switch by Carol Snow

2010-03-03T10:00:00.000-06:00

Pub Date: September 2008

Summary: What would you do if every time there was a thunderstorm, you switched bodies with someone?

Every since Claire Martin became another teenager, this happens to her all the time.

During every thunderstorm, Claire finds herself as someone else.

Usually she’s back into her own body by the next time she wakes up.

But this time, something goes horribly wrong.

Claire gets stuck in Larissa’s body.

Larissa happens to be the new hot blonde.

She’s also got the attention of Nate, Claire’s longtime crush.

Claire isn’t sure she will ever get back to her old body, her old life.

If she can, she’s not even sure if she will want it all back.

Rating: 3 Stars

Review: When I first received Switch in the mail, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect but I was excited to read it. For me, it kind of started out a little slow and at some points I found myself not really connecting with Claire like I hope to in books. But the plot was definitely different than anything else I’ve read. I really liked that about the book. The plot was unique and well written. But not all of the characters flowed and communicated well together. When Claire switches bodies with Larissa, I really didn’t expect her to get stuck. That was the big climax in Switch, but I think it might have came a little late for me. Sometimes the ending felt a little rushed. There wasn’t very much suspense before the book just ended. If you someone who thinks you would really like this kind of book, then you should definitely go for it! Chances are you will like it. It’s not a bad book, I just think some parts could have been a little better.

-Lexi (:

FTC: I received this novel from its publishing company/author with the understanding that I would provide an honest review. I am not getting paid in any way for writing and posting this review.

The Life of Glass by Jillian Cantor

2010-03-01T10:00:00.000-06:00

Pub Date: February 2010

Summary: The stars. That’s the one thing Melissa’s father always told her about.

He told her everything about them especially that the brightest stars weren’t always the most beautiful.

Deep down, Melissa knew that beauty wasn’t just what was on the outside.

But the people around her didn’t view things the same way.

Her older sister, Ashley. The beautiful one.

Her best friend, Ryan. He’s falling for the new girl at school, Courtney.

Then, Melissa’s mother is dating someone new, someone who will never be able to replace her father.

Melissa begins to piece together the parts of her father’s life that she never knew.

She goes through his journals about love and relationships.

When another tragedy happens, Melissa begins to realize that she needs to start living in the present.

Will she finally begin to understand that being beautiful on the outside doesn’t make you beautiful on the in?

Rating: 3.5 Stars

Review: The Life of Glass was a fast read, but that’s not always a bad thing. One of my favorite parts was the relationship between Melissa and Ryan. They were best friends so of course you knew they would end up together in the end! I could find myself relating to Melissa a little bit and I felt very bad for her because she lost her father. But it was nice that she still had something that she knew she could remember him by and it also happened to be something really unique. The contrast between Melissa and her older sister, Ashley, was something that kind of pulled me in. They weren’t all that different on the inside, but on the outside they were. That was all that matter the Melissa though, she never felt close to her sister because her sister was the pretty one and Melissa never felt pretty. But I think at the end of The Life of Glass, both sisters finally understood that what is on the inside is what should really matter.

-Lexi (:

FTC: I received this novel from its publishing company/author with the understanding that I would provide an honest review. I am not getting paid in any way for writing and posting this review.

In My Mailbox (15)

2010-02-28T10:00:00.000-06:00

Review Rewind (1)

2010-02-27T10:00:00.002-06:00

I stole this idea from Ashley at Books Make Great Lovers! Love ya, Ashley! (:

So, in this post I'm just going to link some of my reviews that never got any comments or reviews that only got one comment. I think that everyone should have the chance to see them and be reminded of the good books that aren't so new!

Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult
My first review ever!

The Lovely Bones by Alice Seabold
This book made me fall in love with reading.

Marked by P.C. Cast and Kristin Cast
First novel in the House of Night series.

I would love it if you would comment on these reviews!

They are from when I first started my blog so they aren't great reviews, but they are reviews none the less!

Thanks guy.

-Lexi (:

Old vs. New

2010-02-25T10:00:00.000-06:00

Now, hopefully all of you remember when I used have a weekly post called Alternative Covers.

Well, I have changed the title of my post. I think this one is better (:

But if you have a suggestion, I would be happy to hear it!

Back to the post, the book I choose for this week is Dear John by Nicholas Sparks.

I reviewed the book not to long ago. If you wanna read and comment my review, just click here!

Andddd, here we gooo!

Old Cover:

Personally, I absolutely love this cover! I think the way they Incorporated the horses was really nice since horses actually are a big part of this book. Plus, I love the font and how the colors aren't really bright. Everything about this cover is very delicate but really pretty.

New Cover:

This cover happens to be the one that I own. I like how John and Savannah are placed on the cover and how they are kind of looking out in the distance. But I don't really think I like it more then the other one.

This isn't all about me though!

You guys need to tell me what you think about the covers.

Just leave a comment, I love knowing what you think!

And if you have any suggestions about how I can improve my post, don't be afraid to share.

-Lexi (:

Cracked Up To Be by Courtney Summers

2010-02-24T10:00:00.000-06:00

Pub Date: December 2008

Summary: What causes the perfect girl to make the perfect fall from grace?

Parker Fadley is known as the perfect girl at school.

Cheerleading captain. Girlfriend of the most popular guy. Future Valedictorian.

But she turns into someone completely different.

Someone no one could have ever imagined her as before.

Parker starts drinking at school and failing her classes.

The one thing Parker hates doing is talking about what made her this way.

She just wants everyone to leave her alone.

Parker wants to disappear, she wants everyone to just ignore her.

If she can act like it’s no big deal, then why can’t everyone else follow suit?

But, Parker’s parents put her on suicide watch.

And her counselors are demanding to know the truth.

When a nice guy starts falling for her, Parker doesn’t know how to handle the feelings.

He’s making her feel things that she hasn’t felt in so long.

Parker knows something bad has happened.

She knows it might be her fault.

Rating: 3.5/5 Stars

Review: Cracked Up To Be was a wonderful debut novel by Courtney Summers. It had a dark and haunting angle to it, but it still had a hint of love and romance. Parker was the perfect character. She was haunted by everything that happened to her, everything that she saw. She doesn’t know how to handle things. She feels as if she’s lost it all, so why not act like it? The nice guy (whose name will go unsaid) was pretty much the exact opposite of Parker in every way, but yet they were pretty much perfect for each other. I could picture many parts of this book in my mind, which is always a plus. Most of Cracked Up To Be could be someone’s real life high school experience and I don’t think everyone’s ever had a plot quite like this before. I’m really happy I had the chance to enjoy this book. I think a lot of other people need to read Cracked Up To Be, I’m almost certain they will like it!

-Lexi(:

The Unwritten Rule by Elizabeth Scott

2010-02-22T10:00:00.000-06:00

Pub Date: April 2010

Summary: Best friends are NOT supposed to like their best friends’ boyfriend.

Sarah is breaking that rule.

She’s had a crush on Ryan for years.

Sarah thinks he’s smart, easy to talk to, and he understands her.

But there’s one tiny problem.

Ryan is Brianna’s boyfriend. Brianna is Sarah’s best friend.

So Sarah decides to fix this situation.

She ignores Ryan. She tries to prove to herself that she doesn’t really like Ryan.

The last thing Sarah wants to happen is for Brianna to get hurt.

She’s had a hard enough life with two parents who could care less about her.

But when one night causes something to happen between them, Sarah is torn.

It was wonderful and terrible at the same time.

Sarah can’t help herself from wanting Ryan.

All she wants is him, but she can’t get him without hurting her best friend in the process.

Rating: 5/5 Stars

Review: The Unwritten Rule was something that I had been looking forward to reading for a long time. When I got this book in the mail I couldn’t wait to read it. Every blogger that I know who has read it said it was really good. But I need to take it one step further, I think The Unwritten Rule was actually amazing. I read this book in one night. I found the love triangle between Sarah, Ryan and Brianna intoxicating. I’m sure we’ve all been there. We like a guy but our friend get the guy instead of us. It doesn’t even have to be our best friend, it still hurts. So, I felt bad for Brianna but at the same time I knew exactly how Sarah felt. She really was torn between a great guy and her not so great best friend. To us this might seem like an easy choice but for Sarah it was the exact opposite. As I was reading this, I kept wondering why Sarah was friends with Brianna. I still really wanted Sarah to end up being with Ryan. Every moment of The Unwritten Rule was really good. All I wanted was to know what was going to happen in the end. I recommend this book to everyone!

-Lexi (:

FTC: I received this novel from its publishing company/author with the understanding that I would provide an honest review. I am not getting paid in any way for writing and posting this review.

Dear John by Nicholas Sparks

2010-02-19T10:00:00.000-06:00

Pub Date: October 2006

Summary: Two simple words change their lives forever and broke his heart.

John Tyree knows what it’s like to be in Army.

He knows how hard it is to leave everything behind that you love.

But when Savannah Curtin enters his life, he wasn’t even prepared for how hard it could get.

After high school, John entered the Army, not knowing what to do with his life.

He was an angry rebel, he hoped turning over a new leaf would straighten him out.

While home on leave, John happens to meet the girl of his dreams, Savannah.

The attraction between them is undeniable.

Even from the very beginning.

The love they share is unlike either of them have ever felt before.

Savannah vows to wait for John as he finishes out his last year in the Army.

Then everything comes crashing down when 9/11 happens.

John is forced to choose between the person he loves and the country he loves.

After returning home, he realizes the love can change a person.

In ways he could never have imagined.

Rating: 5/5 Stars

Review: Since Dear John was the book I have ever read by Nicholas Sparks, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. I had heard a lot of positive things about him and his novels. The expectations I had were greatly surpassed. I fell in love with Dear John, it was so hard to choose something negative to say about this book and its characters. I actually found myself falling in love with John right along with Savannah but I defiantly thought that they made the cutest couple! Right away you knew that they were going to fall fast and hard for one another. They were pretty much perfect for each other and they had what seemed to be the perfect relationship. That is until John’s time at home was other and Savannah’s vacation was also over. They promised each other that they would always be in contact with each other, they would always write. Over time their loved actually seemed to grow but a part of me had a feeling that it might now last forever. Knowing what I know about Nicholas Sparks, I never expected the ending that Dear John had but I truly think it really fit the book. I can’t say what the ending was without giving away the whole book. If you want to know what happens, I recommend you read Dear John! And even if you don’t really want to know what happens, read it anyways.

-Lexi (:

After Ever After by Jordan Sonnenblick

2010-02-17T10:00:00.000-06:00

Pub Date: February 2010

Summary: What can you do with your life if you feel fragile?

Jeffery has accomplished a really scary thing.

He battled cancer and is now a teen in remission.

But he still feels so fragile.

Every moment has to be a memory because he still doesn’t know if his cancer will come back.

The affects that Jeffery’s treatment had on him will forever to a reminder.

He isn’t the best student and he can’t walk without a limp.

Jeffery’s parents can’t stop worry about him.

His older brother, Steven, completely lost it.

Now he’s in Africa.

He joined a drumming circle so he could do some soul searching.

Steven isn’t the only one that needs to “find himself” though.

Jeffery also needs to figure out who he is.

He’s not a little boy with cancer anymore.

Anger. Jealousy. Confusion. Secrets.

Jeffery’s lashing out at everyone.

Will it only make him stronger in the end?

Rating: 3/5 Stars

Review: I loved Drums, Girls, and Dangerous Pie by Jordan Sonnenblick but I’m not too sure if After Ever After fully lived up to my expectations. I really enjoyed seeing Jeffery grown up and dealing with his own life problems. But, I thought that Jordan could have added some things and taken away others. Jeffery was a very likable character though and the plot was kind of different. It was a nice was to add on to the DGAP series but with a different main character. I thought the romance part After Ever After was very subtle but it was still there. One could tell that Jeffery was falling for Lindsey but it was very cute. All of characters in this book interacted will and you could almost believe that they were actually real friends. A lot of the situations were believable. There was just some things that I didn’t really enjoy as much as I hoped I would. I think everyone who enjoyed Drums, Girls and Dangerous Pie should read After Ever After.

-Lexi (:

FTC: I received this novel from its publishing company/author with the understanding that I would provide an honest review. I am not getting paid in any way for writing and posting this review.

Lost It by Kristen Tracy

2010-02-15T10:00:00.000-06:00

Pub Date: January 2007

Summary: Tess Whistle’s junior year is starting off to be very bizarre.

Her best friend is plotting to blow up a poodle.

Her parents moved to a survival camp in the middle of the desert.

Her grandmother got her new bras and underwear that happen to be . . . sexy.

Oh, and her shoes explode.

Most people would not have a good reaction to this.

Some might say that their life was spiraling out of control if this happened to them.

With a new boyfriend and her good sense of humor, Tess is dealing quite well.

Or so she thinks.

Rating: 4 1/2 Stars

Review: I was so excited to be able to finally read Lost It. Everything anyone has ever said about it has been almost 100% positive and I really have to agree. Tess was a character that pretty much anyone could relate to. Unique yet so down to earth. She didn’t always know how to deal with things, so she just ignored it. Kind of like most teenagers do nowadays! Lost It was really close to getting 5 stars, but something just stopped me for giving it that rating. It was a really great book, and I really think that a lot of girls will enjoy it. I mean, it’s about your first time, something girls never get sick of reading about! But I just kind of wish the ending would have been different. I’m a sucker for happy endings, but I do get why Lost It didn’t have such a perfect, happy ending. Others might argue with my rating but I’m sticking to it! This book will always be on my shelf, ready for another read.

-Lexi (:

Deadly Little Secret by Laurie Faria Stolarz

2010-02-13T10:00:00.001-06:00

Pub Date: December 2008

Summary: Sometimes there are certain secrets that shouldn’t be kept.

Camelia’s life had always been ordinary.

Three months ago, Ben started his junior year as the new kid Camelia’s school.

Everything seemed to change for a lot of people, especially for Camelia.

Ben had rumors about him everywhere.

People were saying that he was the reason was his ex-girlfriend’s death.

The rumors were the only thing the students listened to, it caused Ben to be ignored by everyone.

Except for Camelia.

She’s drawn to him, to his touch, to the way he makes her feel.

Soon, Camelia starts to get strange phone calls and presents.

Ben warns her that she’s in danger, that he wants to help.

The only question Camelia has is if he can really be trusted.

He’s hiding something, but he’s not the only one with a secret.

Rating: 5 Stars

Review: So far everything I’ve heard about Deadly Little Secret has been nothing but positive things, and I think I have to add myself to the list of people who love this book! Camelia was such a great character, I found myself feeling the things she did and thinking her thoughts. I love being able to connect with a character like that, it just adds so much more to the book. The plot of this book was very different. It was something that I don’t think I’ve seen before. Ben seemed like such a great guy, even in the beginning I felt the need to learn more about him right along with Camelia. He was a very intriguing character. Ben’s secrets made him have even more of a draw. Deadly Little Secret did have a sort of mystery side to it, and I personally have a soft spot for mystery books. The combination of a mystery and a romance was really enjoyable. Whenever I sat down to read this book, I had such a hard time putting it down! I just wanted to know what was going to happen next, I didn’t want to wait until the next time I was going to be able to sit down and read. This is one of the best series I think I will have read in awhile. Up next, Deadly Little Lies.

-Lexi (:

Boys, Girls and Other Hazardous Materials by Rosalind Wiseman

2010-02-11T10:00:00.000-06:00

Pub Date: January 2010

Summary: Drama free.

That’s all anyone wants their freshman year to be.

And Charlie Healey is no exception to that rule.

For her, middle school was very hard.

Every day mean girls were all around her.

They judged and teased.

Always trying to hurt someone else to raise their own self-esteem.

Charlie thought high school would be completely different.

But now she’s about to find out that girls aren’t the only mean ones.

Charlie now has to add guys into her complicated life.

And try not to get a broken heart in the process.

Rating: 4 1/2 Stars

Review: I really enjoyed reading Boys, Girls, and Other Hazardous Materials. It was a very fun read. It really kept me entertained the whole time and I even found myself giggling at some points. Even though I did thoroughly enjoy this book, I couldn’t give it 5 stars. There was room for some small changes and I have read some better books. But don’t think that I’m telling you this is a bad book or anything, because it really isn’t! Lots of people will read this book and like it a lot. Some will also give it 5 stars, but it wasn’t quite there for me. I really liked Charlie though, she had a great relationship with her friends. She was my favorite character, even though I like almost all of them. They all interacted will and I could picture a lot of the situations in my head because they just seemed that real at time. Boys, Girls, and Other Hazardous Materials really portrayed what high school can really be like. Teenagers and the atmosphere have changed a lot since our parents were in school, even if they don’t want to believe it! I really do recommend this book to pretty much everyone. You’ll enjoy it!

-Lexi (:

FCT: I received this novel from its publishing company/author with the understanding that I would provide an honest review. I am not getting paid in any way for writing and posting this review.

Girl on the Other Side by Deborah Kerbel

2010-02-09T10:00:00.001-06:00

Pub Date: October 2009

Summary: Tabby Freeman and Lora Froggett.

They go to the same school but seem to live in two different worlds.

Tabby. Rich, pretty, popular.

Behind closed doors, her perfect world is falling apart.

Lora. Smart, shy, target for bullies.

She’s becoming nervous. She doesn’t want anyone to find out her family’s secret.

Tabby and Lora might have something in common though.

They’re both hiding secrets and pain.

When a series of events causes the two girls’ lives to intersect, will they be saved or destroyed?

Rating: 3 Stars

Review: Two girls become unlikely friends. This plot is used a lot for Young Adult books, but for some reason it doesn’t get old. Girl on the Other Side was no exception. Yes, I know I only gave it 3 stars but I have my reasons! This book was really short. To me, it could have been a lot better if it would have been longer. Parts needed more description. I couldn’t always picture some of the situations in my mind, which is really an important part of reading for me. But Deborah Kerbel did make the plot unique. That’s why it still got a 3 stars rating. Tabby and Lora were really good representations of the two sides of the social scale. Girl on the Other Side showed that even though you may be really different on the outside, something on the inside could really be a lot alike. I think that’s a good thing of everyone to remember in high school. It’s not necessary to judge someone based on what’s on the outside because the inside could be so different.

-Lexi (:

FTC: I received this novel from its publishing company/author with the understanding that I would provide an honest review. I am not getting paid in any way for writing and posting this review.

Wild Roses by Deb Caletti

2010-01-30T10:00:00.001-06:00

Pub Date: August 2005

Summary: Cassie Morgan, a seventeen-year-old girl, knows what it’s like to live with a ticking time bomb.

Dino Cavalli, her stepfather, has everything together on the outside.

He’s a world-renowned violin player and composer.

But at home it’s a different story.

Cassie knows what he really is, a self-centered bully.

Things at home are starting to get worse now.

Dino never sleeps, he’s paranoid, he starts fights.

At first Cassie was just angry at her mother’s new husband, but now she’s growing afraid.

Then Ian Waters, Dino’s first violin student,enters the picture.

From the moment Cassie sees Ian; she can only imagine what’s going to happen.

She thought she knew that with love could bring pain with it.

But this friendship may have consequences no one ever imagined.

Rating: 4 Stars

Review: Wild Roses was a lot more than I ever expected. I’ve read a couple books by Deb Caletti before but so far nothing has been as memorable as this. I loved almost everything about this book. The relationships all of the characters had with one another were really believable. Cassie was such a great character, you couldn’t help but relate to her. I often found myself hating Dino right along with her. I, like Cassie and her father, didn’t understand why her mother put up with him the way she did. I think that’s why I loved this ending so much. It wrapped up almost everything, BUT the relationship between Cassie and Ian. Ian has probably made it on my list of my top five favorite guy characters. I fell in love with him right along with Cassie! The way the book ended between then really surprised me but I don’t really think it should have. I don’t think I could picture the ending of Wild Roses any different. It’s definitely worth the read.

-Lexi (:

All Unquiet Things by Anna Jarzab

2010-01-28T10:00:00.000-06:00

Pub Date: January 2010

Summary: Carly. Neily. Audrey.

Three friends who thought nothing bad could happen to them.

That is until Neily finds Carly dead.

Carly was sweet and smart and very self-destructive.

She knew secrets, secrets that got her killed.

Neily was Carly’s boyfriend, until she dumped him for the bad boy at Brighton Day School.

He blames himself for what happened, for not answering his cell phone when Carly called.

Audrey was Carly’s cousin and the reason Carly got involved with the bad crowd.

She also blames herself, but she thinks the wrong person is in jail for the murder.

Audrey wants Neily’s help to find the real killer.

They dig into the past that they both shared with Carly.

Finding the real killer will force both Neily and Audrey to face things about themselves and the girl they loved but couldn't’t save.

Rating: 5 Stars

Review: Every review I have read for All Unquiet Things had nothing but positive things to say, and now I know why. This novel is probably one of the best that I’ve read in while. The plot was unique, something I haven’t heard about in awhile, and the characters were all so different but interacted so well. The dialogue never felt forced, it always had some sort of flow to it. The friendship that grew between Neily and Audrey definitely didn’t start out like a normal friendship between strangers would. I found myself feeling sorry of Neily, he lost the one person he loved and he just didn’t really know how to handle himself. He was by far my favorite character even though all of them were just really amazing. Carly was a close second. She was confused by what was going on in her life but yet she kept trying to find some purpose for herself. She did find herself going down the wrong path, but who hasn’t? Carly tried to make it right for everyone even though she put herself in danger. I would really recommend All Unquiet Things to everyone. It’s so powerful and has a lot of insight into what can actually go on someone’s mind when they think that everything has gone wrong.

FTC: I received this novel from its publishing company/author with the understanding that I would provide an honest review. I am not getting paid in any way for writing and posting this review.

-Lexi (:

By The Time You Read This, I'll Be Dead by Julie Anne Peters

2010-01-06T10:00:00.000-06:00

Pub Date: January 2009

Summary: In 23 days, Daelyn plans to be gone.

A suicidal teen is never easy for anyone.

But for Daelyn, being one makes every day a struggle.

After several botched suicides, she plans to make the next one count.

Everyone has tried to help her, tried to get her to stop.

She always has the same reasons.

She’s already made up her mind. She has been suffering her whole life. People were too slow to notice.

Her life sucks. The world sucks. People suck.

Then Santana enters her life.

Daelyn starts to develop feelings for him but she doesn’t plan on letting them interfere with her plan.

Rating: 5 Stars

Review: Mysterious and touching. Those two words are one of the best ways to sum up By the Time You Read This, I’ll Be Dead. Daelyn is a very unique character and within the first page you start to feel sorry for her. You don’t want her to kill herself, you just want to see her happy. Seeing inside her head is a different story, it’s dark and scary at times. Even though it helps you understand why she wants to end her life, it doesn’t really make it more acceptable. I could relate to this book in a lot of ways, I saw myself in Daelyn like I’m sure a lot of people did. This book is not just for teen audiences, even though that’s where it will get its strength. I took this book with me on a church trip and within an hour, one of my adult leaders had already gotten half way through this book. It’s hard to put down By the Time You Read This, I’ll Be Dead; you actually don’t want to put it down at all. Daelyn’s story and struggle is just intoxicating.

-Lexi (:

FTC: I received this novel from it's publishing company with the understanding that I would provide an honest review. I am not getting paid in any way for writing and posting this review.

Invisible I: The Amanda Project by Stella Lennon

2010-01-04T10:00:00.000-06:00

Pub Date: September 2009

Summary: Amanda Valentino changed something for everyone.

Callie Leary, Nia Rivera, and Hal Bennett only have one thing in common.

All three were chosen by Amanda herself to be her guide.

Amanda lied. A lot.

Not just to parents and teachers, but from the first minute so meets someone new.

Callie was told by Amanda that the reason she’s at Endeavor High is she moves around a lot.

Another lie: Amanda always chooses just one person to help her at a new school.

Nia, Callie, and Hal all only have one question, why did she lie?

After finding cryptic clues, they all know they have a course to follow that only Amanda could have planned.

Soon, they all come to realize that Amanda has left behind more questions than answers.

Hal, Nia, and Callie want to find out what happened to their best friend Amanda more than anything.

They put aside all of their differences and learn to get along with others who are different.

But before they can find out what happened to the person who changed their lives…

They must find out, Who exactly is Amanda Valentino?

Rating: 3 1/2 Stars

Review: I love a good mystery novel, and this was no exception. Throughout Invisible I, I had no idea what was going to happen and I definitely couldn’t put it down. I wanted to know what happened to Callie, Nia and Hal so bad. All of the characters just pull you in right from the beginning. You can’t help put want them to get along and find their friend. Even though you couldn’t really get inside Amanda’s head in the usual way, all of the clues she left behind did a good job of letting you see inside her. One could easily tell that Amanda was a very complex character; I always got the feeling that maybe she didn’t exactly know what she wanted. That’s the great thing about this novel though, everything is complex but yet so easy at the same time. I can’t get over the ending either. It will really surprise whoever reads it. I never saw this ending coming but I think a different ending would have changed everything about Invisible I, which wouldn’t be what we wanted. (: Also, who is Stella Lennon?

-Lexi

FCT: I received this novel from it's publishing company with the understanding that I would provide an honest review. I am not getting paid in any way for writing and posting this review.

Secret Society by Tom Dolby

2010-01-02T10:00:00.002-06:00

Pub Date: October 2009

Summary: Secrets. Are they fun or do they just hurt everyone?

Phoebe, the eccentric new girl.

Lauren, the brooding socialite.

Nick, a member of New York’s wealthiest families.

Patch, a filmmaker in the making.

These four teens are about as different as they get.

But, only three get invited to join the Society.

After becoming a member, more doors are opened for them than they ever could have imagined.

Every day their wishes are fulfilled, every day things fall into place for them even more.

On the outside, it all seems so perfect.

Until the body of one of their members is found in Central Park, dead.

The only way to identify the body was by the ankh-shaped tattoo on his neck.

Something all members are required to get.

But once things start to get too dangerous, these teens find that there is no way for them to get out.

Rating: 4 Stars

Review: Secret Society was definitely a fun read. I thought this book was going to be a lot different when I first started it, but I’m glad it didn’t turn out the way I thought it would! Because of the cover of the book, I thought this book was going to have an older setting, not something so modern. The modern setting changed this book a lot for me, but in a very good way. If the book would have had an older day setting, I don’t think some of the things would have come as such as a surprise. All throughout the book, I had very clear pictures in my head of the characters, setting, and such. For me, that’s an important piece to the reading experience. I really recommend this book; lots of people will really love it. It has all of the parts that make a book so likable by everyone, young and old.

-Lexi (:

FTC: I received this novel from it's publishing company with the understanding that I would provide an honest review. I am not getting paid in any way for writing and posting this review.

Wrap Up on My '09 Challenges

2009-12-31T16:18:00.002-06:00

Well, the year is almost over. This year I participated in three challenges. Those challenges included 100+ Reading Challenge and the A-Z Challenge (both author and book title).

Sadly, I wasn't able to complete any of my challenges!

I didn't keep the best records though, which I'm sure effected things a lot.

Although I got very close on all of my challenges.

For my 100+, I got 90 books read. At least, that I knew of.. Haha.

As for my A-Z, I only had a few letters left to fill in.

Next year I plan to prepare more for the challenges I choose to try.

If you would like to view my completed list, their just on the left sidebar towards the bottom.

Hopefully within the next few days, I'll post what challenges I'm going to try in 2010! (:

-Lexi

In My Mailbox (11/16 to 11/28)

2009-11-29T10:00:00.000-06:00

In My Mailbox was started by The Story Siren and Alea from Pop Culture Junkie. If you want more details, click here. In My Mailbox explores all the books that I get in a week, whether it's in the mail, borrowed from a friend, borrowed from the library, or bought from a bookstore.

Recived:

Raiders' Ransom by Emily Diamand (Hardback/ The Chicken House/ December 2009)

It's the 22nd century and, because of climate change, much of England is underwater. Poor Lilly is out fishing with her trusty sea-cat when greedy raiders pillage the town--and kidnap the prime minister's daughter. Her village blamed, Lilly decides to find the girl. Off she sails, in secret. And with a ransom: a mysterious talking jewel. "If I save his daughter," Lilly reasons, "the prime minister's sure to reward me." Little does Lilly know that it will take more than grit to outwit the tricky, treacherous piratical tribes!

Hourglass by Claudia Gray (Paperback/ HarperTeen/ March 2010)

Bestselling author Claudia Gray’s Evernight series continues. In Hourglass, Bianca and Lucas have found a way to be together. But it means lying to the people who care about them the most.

After escaping from Evernight Academy, the vampire boarding school, Bianca and Lucas seek refuge with Black Cross, the elite group of vampire hunters led by Lucas’s stepfather. When Bianca’s close friend—the vampire Balthazar—is captured by Black Cross, Bianca knows she has to do whatever it takes to save him. But at what cost?

Hourglass, the third book in this gripping vampire series by the author of the New York Times bestseller Stargazer, has all the romance, suspense, and page-turning drama that have made Claudia Gray’s books runaway successes.

Girl on the Other Side by Deborah Kerbel (Paperback/ Dundurn Press/ October 2009)

Tabby Freeman and Lora Froggett go to the same school, but they live in totally opposite worlds. Tabby is rich, pretty, and the most popular girl in her class. But behind closed doors, her 'perfect' life is rapidly coming apart at the seams.

On the other side, Lora is smart, timid, and the constant target of bullies. While struggling to survive the piranha-infested halls of her school, she becomes increasingly nervous that somebody might discover the unbearable truth about what's been happening to her family.

Despite their differences, Tabby and Lora have something in common - they're both harbouring dark secrets and a lot of pain. Although they've never been friends, a series of strange events causes their lives to crash together in ways neither could have ever imagined. And when the dust finally settles and all their secrets are forced out into the light, will the girls be saved or destroyed?

Love and Peaches by Jodi Lynn Anderson (Hardback/ HarperTeen/ November 2009)

After a not-quite-peachy year apart, three Georgia peaches come home to Darlington Orchard

When Murphy chose New York City, she left her first love behind. Now, a summer in Bridgewater means trading subway trains for pickup trucks and facing the boy she turned her back on.

Leeda expects her trip home to be over faster than her new Manhattan boyfriend can hail a cab—until a surprising inheritance saddles her with a huge responsibility.

Birdie's heart led her all the way to Mexico, and heartbreak brings her back to the orchard. But when the Darlington family decides to leave peach trees for palm trees, Birdie gets a crash course in letting go—and learning when to hold on.

Together for another juicy summer, carefree Murphy, perfect Leeda, and big-hearted Birdie return to the place that allowed them to bloom. Brimming with all the charm, humor, and heart of Peaches and The Secrets of Peaches, this satisfying conclusion to the series reunites three unlikely best friends for a final sweet farewell.

Numbers by Rachel Ward (Paperback/ The Chicken House/ Febuary 2010)

Ever since she was child, Jem has kept a secret: Whenever she meets someone new, no matter who, as soon as she looks into their eyes, a number pops into her head. That number is a date: the date they will die. Burdened with such awful awareness, Jem avoids relationships. Until she meets Spider, another outsider, and takes a chance. The two plan a trip to the city. But while waiting to ride the Eye ferris wheel, Jem is terrified to see that all the other tourists in line flash the same number. Today's number. Today's date. Terrorists are going to attack London. Jem's world is about to explode!

Snow Queen by Emma Harrison (Paperback/ HarperTeen/ November 2009)

Chamberlain Ski Resort and Spa

Welcome to the 10th Annual Snow Queen competition!

I can't believe I got roped into this.

Snow Princesses must attend all pageant rehearsals, with appropriate outfits.

Well, no matter what it takes, I'm going to wipe that smirk off Layla Chamberlain's face.

Our rehearsal space can be booked to practice your talent.

Um, does "looking dumb in a dress" count as a talent?

See Grayson Chamberlain, the assistant director, with any questions.

If you insist! First question: How can someone so sweet (and hot!) be a Chamberlain?

Good luck! One of you will soon be our new Snow Queen!

Oh joy.

Unless Grayson comes with the tiara . . .

Why I Let My Hair Grow Out by Maryrose Wood (Paperback/ Berkley Trade/ March 2007)

Being sent to your room is one thing. But being sent to another country?

Morgan's boyfriend dumped her on the last day of school-it seemed the only thing to do was to hack off her hair and dye the stubble orange. Unfortunately, Morgan's parents freaked and decided a change of scenery would do her good. So they're sending her off on a bike tour of Ireland.

But Morgan gets more than she bargained for on the Emerald Isle-including a strange journey into some crazy, once upon a time corner of the past. There, she meets fairies, weefolk, and a hunky warrior-dude named Fergus, and figures out that she's got some growing to do-and she doesn't just mean her hair.

How I Found The Perfect Dress by Maryrose Wood (Paperback/ Berkley Trade/ May 2008)

Maryrose Wood follows up her hilarious hit Why I Let My Hair Grow Out with another irreverent, teen angst-filled, girl-power romp.

On a bike tour of Ireland last summer, Morgan Rawlinson fell for Colin, the hunky guide, and entered a portal that turned her into the goddess Morganne. Now she’s back to her painfully normal life and her relationship with Colin has fizzled to the occasional e-mail…until he writes saying he’s coming to Connecticut—just in time for the prom.

But when he arrives, he’s exhausted. It seems that when Morgan crossed the portal as Morganne, a spell was cast on Colin. In his dreams he’s being forced to dance ’til dawn with the faeries, who want to boogie with him for eternity. Somehow she has to break the spell on her date, help plan the prom, and find the perfect dress. Oh, what a night…

Prom and Party Etiquette by Cindy Post Senning, Peggy Post and Steven Salerno (Paperback/ HarperCollins/ January 2010)

No Summary for this book yet.

Bought:

Shadowland (The Immortals Series) by Alyson Noel (Hardback/ St. Martin's Griffin/ November 2009)

Ever and Damen have traveled through countless past lives—and fought off the world’s darkest enemies—so they could be together forever. But just when their long-awaited destiny is finally within reach, a powerful curse falls upon Damen…one that could destroy everything. Now a single touch of their hands or a soft brush of their lips could mean sudden death—plunging Damen into the Shadowland. Desperate to break the curse and save Damen, Ever immerses herself in magick—and gets help from an unexpected source…a surfer named Jude.

Although she and Jude have only just met, he feels startlingly familiar. Despite her fierce loyalty to Damen, Ever is drawn to Jude, a green-eyed golden boy with magical talents and a mysterious past. She’s always believed Damen to be her soulmate and one true love—and she still believes it to be true. But as Damen pulls away to save them, Ever’s connection with Jude grows stronger—and tests her love for Damen like never before…

Borrowed:

Burned by Ellen Hopkins (Paperback/ McElderry/ October 2007)

Once again the author of Crank (S & S, 2004) has masterfully used verse to re-create the yearnings and emotions of a teenage girl trapped in tragic circumstances. Poems in varied formats captivate readers as they describe a teen's immobilizing fear of her abusive father, disgust with a church hierarchy that looks the other way, hope that new relationships can counteract despair, joy in the awakening of romance, and sorrow when demons ultimately prevail. Pattyn Von Stratten is the eldest of eight sisters in a stern Mormon household where women are relegated to servitude and silence. She has a glimpse of normal teenage life when Derek takes an interest in her, but her father stalks them in the desert and frightens him away. Unable to stifle her rage, Pattyn acts out as never before and is suspended from school. Sent to live with an aunt on a remote Nevada ranch, she meets Ethan and discovers forever love. Woven into the story of a teen's struggle to find her destiny is the story of her aunt's barrenness following government mismanagement of atomic testing and protests over nuclear waste disposal. Readers will become immersed in Pattyn's innermost thoughts as long-held secrets are revealed, her father's beatings take a toll on her mother and sister, and Pattyn surrenders to Ethan's love with predictable and disturbing consequences. Writing for mature teens, Hopkins creates compelling characters in horrific situations.

Purge by Sarah Darer Littman (Hardback/ Scholastic Press/ April 2009)

Janie Ryman hates throwing up. So why does she binge eat and then stick her fingers down her throat several times a day? That's what the doctors and psychiatrists at Golden Slopes hope to help her discover. But first Janie must survive everyday conflicts between the Barfers and the Starvers, attempts by the head psychiatrist to fish painful memories out of her emotional waters, and shifting friendships and alliances among the kids in the ward.

Liar by Justine Larbalestier (Hardback/ Bloomsbury/ September 2009)

Micah will freely admit that she’s a compulsive liar, but that may be the one honest thing she’ll ever tell you. Over the years she’s duped her classmates, her teachers, and even her parents, and she’s always managed to stay one step ahead of her lies. That is, until her boyfriend dies under brutal circumstances and her dishonesty begins to catch up with her. But is it possible to tell the truth when lying comes as naturally as breathing? Taking readers deep into the psyche of a young woman who will say just about anything to convince them—and herself—that she’s finally come clean, Liar is a bone-chilling thriller that will have readers see-sawing between truths and lies right up to the end. Honestly.

-Lexi (:

FTC: All links and excerpts are from Amazon.com. I am NOT getting paid to link to them.

In a Heartbeat by Loretta Ellsworth

2009-11-23T10:00:00.000-06:00

Pub Date: February 2010

Summary: During one of her skating competitions, Eagan’s slight mistake cost her, her life.

Eagan looks back on all she’s done and all she wishes she could change.

Like reconciling her relationship with her mom.

She watches memories from heaven.

Her heart is still beating in the world.

Amelia, a fourteen-year-old girl receives Eagan’s heart.

At first she feels guilty.

One family has to suffer so she can live.

Soon, Amelia slowly starts to change.

She dreams of figure skating. She starts to prefer grape flavored candy. She develops and attitude towards her mother.

Amelia knows that she needs to know about her donor’s life.

Once she starts digging, she can’t stop.

Her need leads her to her Eagan’s grieving family.

Amelia learns more about herself and Eagan, while also bringing closure to many others.

Rating: 3 1/2 Stars

Review: In a Heartbeat was a lot more than I expected it to be. The characters were very complex, but were able to see inside both Amelia’s head and Eagan’s. As the book grew closer to the end, one could see that the two girls were getting closer to knowing more about themselves and each other. This novel was an easy read, only 195 pages, but making it a little longer might have added a little more. At some parts, I really wanted it to go more in depth and tell more of a story, which was kind of a drawback for me. This was the first novel I have read by Loretta Ellsworth, so I didn’t really know what I expected from her, but I think over all she met my expectations. A few times while reading In a Heartbeat, I wanted to actually jump into the book and be there for everyone involved, but I knew I couldn’t. To me, that feeling can make a book better then more. I’m glad I had the chance to read this book and if you have the time and the chance, read In a Heartbeat.

-Lexi (:

FTC: I received this novel from it's publishing company with the understanding that I would provide an honest review. I am not getting paid in any way for writing and posting this review.

Tricks by Ellen Hopkins

2009-11-20T10:00:00.000-06:00

Pub Date: August 2009

Summary: Can I ever feel okay about myself?

Five teenagers: three girls, three guys.

Four straight, one gay.

Poor vs. Rich

People who care, no one at all.

All of them live differently but ultimately they’re all looking for the same thing.

Safety. Freedom. Love. Family.

When three little words, I love you, are said for all the wrong reasons, everyone can get hurt.

Five separate stories come into one.

The difference between love and sex often get blurred.

Sometimes though, the experiences help one un-blur those difference.

Growing up. Falling down. Picking yourself back up. Making decisions. Taking a leap of faith.

Those are all factors into how we live our lives, how we find out how we are, and ultimately how we all become truly happy.

Rating: 5 Stars

Review: There hasn’t been a book yet by Ellen Hopkins that I haven’t loved! Tricks was no exception. The way Ellen writes really just amazes me. She can tell a story in so little words. Her characters always have so many sides but she depicts them all so clearly. Whenever one picks up a novel by Ellen Hopkins, they can expect to be surprised by the content and the topics. Ellen isn’t afraid to tackle something new and controversy and she has yet to repeat a topic. Tricks was mainly about prostitution and how easily people can get sex and love confused. I’ve always been able to relate to novels by Ellen, but this one definitely hit home more than any other one has. Don’t be surprised if you walk away from this book balling, because I did. But it doesn’t change that fact that this book really just quite amazing. I recommend this book to everyone!

-Lexi (:

FTC: I did not received the novel from any publishing company or author. It is my own personally copy that I bought, but still I am not getting paid in any way to do this review.

The Secret Year by Jennifer Hubbard

2009-11-18T10:00:00.000-06:00

Pub Date: January 2010

Summary: If you weren’t with someone to being with, shouldn’t be easier to get over them?

Julia and Colt were with each other for a year.

Just not in the normal sense, no one knew about them.

Julia lived on Black Mountain.

She was rich.

Colt on the other hand, didn’t come from Black Mountain.

People would have never understood what kept Julia and Colt together, but it didn’t matter to them.

When Julia suddenly dies right before her senior year, Colt is the only one left who knows their secret.

He now has to live his life like he didn’t even know Julia existed.

It’s easier said than done for Colt; he’s being haunted by memories of Julia.

Once Julia’s journal is given to Colt, he looks for answers to all of his questions.

He searches every entry, every sentence.

Did Julia really love him?

Was he somehow to blame for the terrible accident?

Not only are these questions answered, Colt finds out more then he bargained for when all of this started.

Rating: 5 Stars

Review: I LOVED THE SECRET YEAR! I literally screamed when I received this book in the mail. I was so excited to read it. Everything I heard about this book just made it seem so amazing, and trust me, it was! It’s only 192 pages long, but those pages definitely pack a punch. I read this whole book in one sitting. Nothing could make me stop reading. I was sucked into Julia and Colt’s romance right when they shared their first kiss. The plot of this book has a lot of different elements in it, like Romeo and Juliet, but Jennifer Hubbard really adds her own spin to everything. Her writing style is impeccable. I usually can’t get into books that are told from a male’s point of view, but this one book that I completely adored. I really don’t think The Secret Year would have been the same if it was written from Julia’s point of view. Getting inside Colt’s head was breathtaking, he just had so many thoughts and his feelings towards Julia and his friends were just so genuine. The Secret Year is now one of my favorite books of all time. By just reading this book you really experience something new and different. I love a book that you can learn from and take something away from it when you read it. I could actually just go on and on about the Secret Year, but I don’t want to give anything away. Everyone should really take the time to read this novel because you will never think of love and passion in the same way again.

-Lexi (:

FTC: I received this book from Viking Publishing Company with the understanding that I would provide an honest review with no benefits for myself, just the opportunity to read this novel.

I Can't Keep My Own Secrets: Six-Word Memoris

2009-11-17T10:00:00.000-06:00

Pub Date: September 2009

Summary: I lost more than my innocence.

Life’s full of “awkward turtle” moments.

Note to all boys: I quit.

God has him. I miss him.

Always helping others. Never helping myself.

Fake Smile. Hidden Tears. Real Laughter.

Skinny girl in a fat body.

You chose pot, I chose poetry.

Freshman: first love. Sophomore: first heartbreak

I won’t need photographs to remember.

Broken. Loved anyway. I’m so thankful.

Rating: 4 Stars

Review: Open to any random page in I Can’t Keep My Own Secrets and you will find something you can relate you. This book was just 600, six word memoirs, from 600 authors but it was very touching. I found so many things that I could relate to, it was almost unreal. Sometimes we don’t always remember that there are a lot of people out there who are going through the same things we are. This novel can help many people remember that very thing. Everything suffers from something someone else does. I Can’t Keep My Own Secrets was surprisingly a lot better than I expected it to be. It was something one could read within 30 minutes and not be able to forget. It’s very touching. I really think more people should take the time to read this novel. I really don’t think they will regret it.

-Lexi (:

FTC: I received this novel from the publisher with the understanding that I would provide and honest review. I am not getting paid in any way for this review.

Taken by Storm by Angela Morrison

2009-11-16T10:00:00.002-06:00

Pub Date: March 2009

Summary: Leesis Hunt has rules.

No making out. Feet must stay on floor. No sex. No falling for a non-Mormon.

Poetry becomes Leesis way of releasing her feelings.

All she wants to do it get out of her little town and go to college at BYU.

Then, Michael Walden enters the picture.

Michael survived the storm that caused his parents’ death and changed the world for him, forever.

Leesis knows that she and Michael couldn’t be more different.

That doesn’t stop her from being drawn to him.

Jealousy. Rules. Memories.

They all try to tear them apart, Leesis won’t let it.

Michael is drowning on the inside.

It’s Leesis job to save him, even though she has no idea how.

When the time comes though, who will be there to save Leesis?

Rating: 4 1/2 Stars

Review: From the very first chapter, I fell in love with Taken by Storm. It surpassed every expectation I had! Every character was beautifully written, they all fit together amazingly. This was definitely a new kind of romance novel in a way, but it was different in a good way. The plot was very unique, just like each character had a very unique background. One couldn’t want anything other than for Leesis and Michael to be together. The way they felt about each other was tell-tailing from the very beginning. It was almost is if they suffered from love at first sight. Really all Leesis wanted to do was to get to know Michael better and help him through. Going into it, she never really expected to end up with him because he was a non-Mormon but she knew she couldn’t hide her feeling from him forever. Their relationship started under hard circumstances but they both made it work. Taken by Storm was a beautifully written novel. I’m happy to say that I read this novel! One lucky person will be able to win a signed copy of this book, so keep a look out for the contest.

-Lexi (:

FTC: I received this book for the author with the understanding that I would provide and honest review. I am not getting paid for this review.

In My Mailbox (10/26 to 11/14)

2009-11-15T10:00:00.000-06:00

In My Mailbox was started by The Story Siren and Alea from Pop Culture Junkie. If you want more details, click here. In My Mailbox explores all the books that I get in a week, whether it's in the mail, borrowed from a friend, borrowed from the library, or bought from a bookstore.

Recieved:

The Exile of Gigi Lane by Adrienne Maria Vrettos (Paperback/ HarperTeen/ April 2010)

I couldn't find a summary for this book, sorry guys!

Stupid Cupid by Rhonda Stapleton (Paperback/ Simon Pulse/ December 2009)

Felicity's no ordinary teen matchmaker...she's a cupid!

Felicity Walker believes in true love. That's why she applies for a gig at the matchmaking company Cupid's Hollow. But when Felicity gets the job, she learns that she isn't just a matchmaker...she's a cupid! (There's more than one of them, you know.)

Armed with a hot pink, tricked-out PDA infused with the latest in cupid magic (love arrows shot through email), Felicity works to meet her quota of successful matches. But when she bends the rules of cupidity by matching her best friend Maya with three different boys at once, disaster strikes. Felicity needs to come up with a plan to set it all right, pronto, before she gets fired and before Maya ends up with her heart split in three.

Envy: A Luxe Novel by Anna Godbersen (Paperback/ HarperTeen/ January 2009)

Jealous whispers.

Old rivalries.

New betrayals.

Two months after Elizabeth Holland's dramatic homecoming, Manhattan eagerly awaits her return to the pinnacle of society. When Elizabeth refuses to rejoin her sister Diana's side, however, those watching New York's favorite family begin to suspect that all is not as it seems behind the stately doors of No. 17 Gramercy Park South.

Farther uptown, Henry and Penelope Schoonmaker are the city's most celebrated couple. But despite the glittering diamond ring on Penelope's finger, the newlyweds share little more than scorn for each other. And while the newspapers call Penelope's social-climbing best friend, Carolina Broad, an heiress, her fortune—and her fame—are anything but secure, especially now that one of society's darlings is slipping tales to the eager press.

In this next thrilling installment of Anna Godbersen's bestselling Luxe series, Manhattan's most envied residents appear to have everything they desire: Wealth. Beauty. Happiness. But sometimes the most practiced smiles hide the most scandalous secrets. . . .

Splendor: A Luxe Novel by Anna Godbersen (Hardback/ HarperTeen/ October 2009)

New beginnings.

Shocking revelations.

Unexpected endings.

A spring turns into summer, Elizabeth relishes her new role as a young wife, while her sister, Diana, searches for adventure abroad. But when a surprising clue about their father's death comes to light, the Holland girls wonder at what cost a life of splendor comes.

Carolina Broad, society's newest darling, fans a flame from her past, oblivious to how it might burn her future. Penelope Schoonmaker is finally Manhattan royalty—but when a real prince visits the city, she covets a title that comes with a crown. Her husband, Henry, bravely went to war, only to discover that his father's rule extends well beyond New York's shores and that fighting for love may prove a losing battle.

In the dramatic conclusion to the bestselling Luxe series, New York's most dazzling socialites chase dreams, cling to promises, and tempt fate. As society watches what will become of the city's oldest families and newest fortunes, one question remains: Will its stars fade away or will they shine ever brighter?

Anastasia's Secret by Susanne Dunlap (Paperback/ Bloomsbery/ March 2010)

“Will I never see you again either?” I asked, feeling as though I was about to jump off a high mountain peak and hope to land without hurting myself. That’s how impossible everything seemed at that moment, no matter what I did.

“Perhaps we will meet again,” Sasha said, softening his voice. “But you must see that it does not matter. You have so much ahead of you. It’s your choice now. Choose the future! Choose life!”

For Anastasia Romanov, life as the privileged daughter of Russia’s last tsar is about to be torn apart by the bloodshed of revolution. Ousted from the imperial palace when the Bolsheviks seize control of the government, Anastasia and her family are exiled to Siberia. But even while the rebels debate the family’s future with agonizing slowness and the threat to their lives grows more menacing, romance quietly blooms between Anastasia and Sasha, a sympathetic young guard she has known since childhood. But will the strength of their love be enough to save Anastasia from a violent death?

Inspired by the mysteries that have long surrounded the last days of the Romanov family, Susanne Dunlap’s new novel is a haunting vision of the life—and love story—of Russia’s last princess.

Girls Acting Catty by Leslie Margolis (Paperback/ Bloomsbury/ November 2009)

What's harder to deal with than a group of boys who act like dogs? How about a clique of catty mean girls? Annabelle has just figured out how to survive in junior high school. She's made great friends, her teachers are nice, and she's got lots of tricks up her sleeve for taming those pesky boys. But now she and her friends must confront a whole new brand of headache-- the mean girl clique. At first Taylor and her friends were out to get Annabelle's bff Rachel, but soon the whole group is involved. Their friendship is getting tenser by the minute -- unless Annabelle can save the day again?

DupliKate by Cherry Cheva (Hardback/ HarperTeen/ September 2009)

To Do List:

Ace SATs

Ace finals

Ace AP physics project

Avoid murdering lab partner

Submit Yale application

Resolve possibly evil twin situation
Due date: December 15th
Countdown: 11 days

By the time Kate Larson accidentally fell asleep at three a.m., she'd already done more work in one night than the average high school senior does in a week. Getting into Yale has been her dream for years—and being generally overworked and totally under-rested is the price of admission. But when she opens her eyes the next day, she comes face-to-face with, well, her face—which is attached to her body, which is standing across the room. Wait, what?

Meet Kate's computer-generated twin. Kate doesn't know why she's here or how to put her back where she belongs, but she's real. And she's the last thing Kate has time to deal with right now. Unless . . .

Could having a double be the answer to Kate's prayers? After all, two Kates can do more work than one. Or will keeping her twin a secret turn her dream future into a living nightmare?

What I Wore To Save The World by Maryrose Wood (Paperback/ Berkley Trade/ December 2009)

Senior year's coming up fast and Morgan still has no clue about college, or a career-the whole rest of-her-life thing is basically a blank. Maybe it's because she spent her junior year obsessing about Colin, the hot Irish guy she fell for last summer (that was right around the same time she discovered she's a half- goddess from the days of Irish lore... you had to be there). She even saved Colin from a nasty enchantment, but he doesn't know that. Colin doesn't believe in magic, not even a little.

But then a mysterious message reunites her with Colin, who turns out to be caught up in the biggest faery-made disaster ever. We're talking the end of reality-not just reality TV. To save the world, she's going to have to tell Colin the truth about her half-goddess mojo. But if he doesn't believe in magic, how will he ever believe in her?

By The Time You Read This, I'll Be Dead by Julie Anne Peters (Paperback/ Hyperion Book CH/ January 2010)

Daelyn Rice is broken beyond repair, and after a string of botched suicide attempts, she's determined to get her death right. She starts visiting a website for "completers"- www.through-the-light.com.

While she's on the site, Daelyn blogs about her life, uncovering a history of bullying that goes back to kindergarten. When she's not on the Web, Daelyn's at her private school, where she's known as the freak who doesn't talk.

Then, a boy named Santana begins to sit with her after school while she's waiting to for her parents to pick her up. Even though she's made it clear that she wants to be left alone, Santana won't give up. And it's too late for Daelyn to be letting people into her life.isn't it?

National Book Award finalist Julie Anne Peters shines a light on how bullying can push young people to the very edge.

Rock 'N' Roll Soldier: A Memoir by Dean Ellis Kohler with Susan VanHecke (Hardback/ HarperTeen/ September 2009)

"During a time when none of us knew for sure if we would live or die, I came to know the true power of music."

Dean Kohler is about to make it big—he's finally scored a national record deal! But his dreams are abruptly put on hold by the arrival of his draft notice. Now he's in Qui Nhon, Vietnam, serving as a military policeman. He keeps telling himself he's a musician, not a killer, and that he's lucky he's not fighting on the front lines. When Captain orders him to form a rock band, it's up to Dean to find instruments and players, pronto. Ingenuity and perseverance pay off and soon the band is traveling through treacherous jungle terrain to perform for troops in desperate need of an escape—even if it's only for three sets. And for Dean—who lives with death, violence, and the fear that anyone could be a potential spy (even his Vietnamese girlfriend)—the band becomes the one thing that gets him through the day. During one of the most controversial wars in recent American history, this incredible true story is about music and camaraderie in the midst of chaos.

Borrowed:

Hold Still by Nina LaCour (Hardback/ Dutton Juvenile/ October 2009)

An arresting story about starting over after a friend’s suicide, from a breakthrough new voice in YA fiction.

dear caitlin, there are so many things that i want so badly to tell you but i just can’t.

Devastating, hopeful, hopeless, playful . . . in words and illustrations, Ingrid left behind a painful farewell in her journal for Caitlin. Now Caitlin is left alone, by loss and by choice, struggling to find renewed hope in the wake of her best friend’s suicide. With the help of family and newfound friends, Caitlin will encounter first love, broaden her horizons, and start to realize that true friendship didn’t die with Ingrid. And the journal which once seemed only to chronicle Ingrid’s descent into depression, becomes the tool by which Caitlin once again reaches out to all those who loved Ingrid—and Caitlin herself.

Suicide Notes by Michael Thoman Ford (Hardback/ HarperTeen/ October 2008)

Jeff, the irreverent, sarcastic, and utterly terrified 15-year-old narrator, wakes up on New Year's Day in a psych ward with bandages around his wrists. He copes with his therapy by using extreme denial and avoidance, attempting to one-up his therapist, Dr. Katzrupus, or Cat Poop, with flippant, deflective wordplay and outrageous stories of faux Sugar Plum Fairy fantasies. Jeff spends the rest of his time with the other teens, including suicidal Sadie the sociopath and the gay teen in jock's clothing, Rankin. While Sadie encourages Jeff's resentment toward the program, it is Rankin's actions that force Jeff to come to terms with his suicide attempt and his own sexuality. This is a story of warped self-perception, of the lies that people tell themselves so they never have to face the truth. Ford is most successful in his withholding of Jeff's secret, a disclosure not made until the last third of the book. While the book could be named Gay Boy, Interrupted due to many similarities to Susanna Kaysen's characters and depictions of the mental-health community, Jeff's wit and self-discovery are refreshing, poignant, and, at times, laugh-out-loud funny. Readers will relate to Jeff as a teen bumbling through horrible embarrassment and the shame that follows, and they will be inspired by his eventual integrity and grace.

Glass by Ellen Hopkins (Hardback/ McElderry/ Reprint: April 2009)

Kristina Snow was a 17-year-old with high grades and a loving family. In Crank (S & S, 2004), one summer in California with a meth-addicted boyfriend destroys her life. Addicted, she's raped, and goes back home to Reno pregnant. Glass picks up a year later. She lives with her mother and works at a 7–11. Depressed about her post-baby figure, she goes back on speed to lose weight. Her mother kicks her out and gains custody of the baby. She continues to spiral to the last page, which sets readers up for a third novel. Glass is even more terrifying than Crank in its utter hopelessness; meth's power is permanent and Kristina is an addict whether she uses or not. Though her recount of events in the first book is dry and self-indulgent, the pace snowballs as soon as she takes her first toke of rock meth, and one desperate, horrifying measure or decision follows another. Like Crank, this title is written in verse, but certainly not poetry. Hopkins's writing is smooth and incisive, but her fondness for seemingly random forms is distracting and adds little to the power of the narrative. Minor characters are flat, and Kristina's overblown self-pity elicits little empathy. The author tries but fails to present meth itself as a character; her descriptions of "the monster" are precious and overwritten. Kristina's story is terrible, and even when she's high, the narrative voice and mood are sobering. Teens, including reluctant readers, may appreciate the spare style and realism of Kristina's unhappy second chapter.

-Lexi (:

FTC: All links and excerpts are from Amazon.com. I am NOT getting paid to link to them.

As You Wish by Jackson Pearce

2009-11-14T10:00:00.002-06:00

Pub Date: August 2009

Summary: It’s been months, and Viola still isn’t over her boyfriend.

Ever since Lawrence ended their relationship, Viola hasn’t been able to focus on anything.

All she wants is to belong again and to have someone love her.

When Viola accidentally summons a genie into her world, she finds herself able to make three wishes.

Jinn, the young genie, only wants to return home.

Viola, on the other hand, wants to make sure she makes the right three wishes.

She wants the wishes to finally make her happy.

But, as Jinn and Viola spend more time together, they find themselves growing closer.

Soon, Jinn realizes that he’s falling for a human girl; he’s falling fast for Viola.

For Viola, it takes more time for her to realize her true feelings for Jinn.

After her first wish, she knows that she’s falling in love with Jinn.

With only two more wishes left, Viola spends all of her time, not wishing.

The sooner she makes those final wishes, the sooner Jinn will leave.

And the sooner Viola will be forced to forget about him.

Rating: 3 Stars

Review: For me, As You Wish was just an average book with a bigger than life plot. I really expected more from this novel and from Jackson Pearce. I’m not saying this book wasn’t good; it definitely had its moments. The friendship and relationship that developed between Viola and Jinn was really cute and you could tell that they cared for each other. Since As You Wish is written from alternating points of view, I think it could have flowed better or just been told by one person. Nonetheless, this was an enjoyable and light-hearted novel. If you don't think you'll be interested in As You Wish, you should still give it a try!

-Lexi (:

In My Mailbox (10/19 to 10/24)

2009-10-20T18:09:00.014-05:00

In My Mailbox was started by The Story Siren and Alea from Pop Culture Junkie. If you want more details, click here. In My Mailbox explores all the books that I get in a week, whether it's in the mail, borrowed from a friend, borrowed from the library, or bought from a bookstore.

Recieved:

Boys, Girls, and Other Hazardous Materials by Rosalind Wiseman (Paperback/ Putnam Juvenile/ January 2010)

Looking for a new beginning after a terrible mean girl past, Charlie Healey realizes there’s no escaping high school drama.

Charlie Healey thinks Harmony Falls is the beginning of a whole new life. Middle school was brutal. But high school is Charlie’s big chance to start over and stay out of drama, except that on her first day she runs into Will, her ex–best friend, who had moved away. Now a varsity athlete and hotter than Charlie remembered, Will hangs with the crowd running the school. But Charlie doesn’t understand their power until an innocent delivery guy falls victim to a near-deadly hazing prank.

Torn between doing what’s right and her secret feelings for Will, Charlie must decide whether to turn in her very best friend or live with the guilt of knowing what he did.

Rosalind Wiseman’s first novel for young adults is a fresh, funny, and juicy read about friendship, betrayal, and how far some will go to be accepted.

After Ever After by Jordan Sonnenblick (Paperback/ Scholastic Press/ February 2010)

Jeffrey isn't a little boy with cancer anymore. He's a teen who's in remission, but life still feels fragile. The aftereffects of treatment have left Jeffrey with an inability to be a great student or to walk without limping. His parents still worry about him. His older brother, Steven, lost it and took off to Africa to be in a drumming circle and "find himself." Jeffrey has a little soul searching to do, too, which begins with his escalating anger at Steven, an old friend who is keeping something secret, and a girl who is way out of his league but who thinks he's cute.

Dawn by Kevin Brooks (Paperback/ The Chicken House/ December 2009)

Dawn's dad is a recovering substance abuser, a one-time child molester, and...a born-again Christian. Religion: That's his latest addiction.

But as far as Dawn is concerned, the Man Upstairs has robbed her of the father she once loved--drugs, drinks, and all.

Which is why Dawn's gone shopping for Bibles. For research. To know her enemy. Because, to get her old dad back, she's going to have to do away with this God guy.

She'd just better pray that the fallout from her father's past life of crime doesn't catch up to her first.

Candle Man by Glenn Dakin (Hardback/ EgmontUSA /September 2009)

Murder, mystery, and adventure aren’t your typical birthday presents . . .

But for Theo, anything that breaks up his ordinary routine is the perfect gift.

A mysterious “illness” and Theo’s guardians force him into a life indoors, where gloves must be worn and daily medical treatments are the norm. When Theo discovers a suspicious package on his birthday, one person from the past will unlock the secret behind Theo’s “illness” and change his life forever.

Molded into an exhilarating steampunk adventure that gives birth to the next great fantasy hero, Theo Wickland, Candle Man: The Society of Unrelenting Vigilance is the first book in a trilogy by debut author Glenn Dakin.

Invisible Lines by Mary Amato (Paperback/ EgmontUSA /November 2009)

An upbeat teen with a talent for drawing and soccer who hails from the wrong side of the tracks learns to bloom where he's planted. When seventh grader Trevor moves to the trashy Hedley Gardens project with his single-parent mom and younger siblings, he decides "it's going to be my year." Entering a new school in a rich neighborhood, Trevor is accidently placed in an advanced science class. Encouraged by the eccentric teacher to discover the world of mushrooms, Trevor applies humor and evasive tactics to fit in. He draws original designs on his classmates' shoes, and he tries out for an elite soccer team knowing he can't pay the fees. However, Trevor's plans for success derail after the star soccer player sabotages him. Narrating in the present tense, Trevor instantly engages readers with a resilient and infectious can-do attitude that eventually enables him to turn the tables on his rival. Amato's mushroom metaphor aptly fits her young hero, who emerges from unpromising surroundings by following his mom's advice "to rise above it."

Bought:

Tricks by Ellen Hopkins (Hardcover/ Margaret K. McElderry/ August 2009)

"When all choice is taken from you, life becomes a game of survival."

Five teenagers from different parts of the country. Three girls. Two guys. Four straight. One gay. Some rich. Some poor. Some from great families. Some with no one at all. All living their lives as best they can, but all searching...for freedom, safety, community, family, love. What they don't expect, though, is all that can happen when those powerful little words "I love you" are said for all the wrong reasons.

Five moving stories remain separate at first, then interweave to tell a larger, powerful story -- a story about making choices, taking leaps of faith, falling down, and growing up. A story about kids figuring out what sex and love are all about, at all costs, while asking themselves, "Can I ever feel okay about myself?"

A brilliant achievement from New York Times best-selling author Ellen Hopkins -- who has been called "the bestselling living poet in the country" by mediabistro.com -- Tricks is a book that turns you on and repels you at the same time. Just like so much of life.

Borrowed:

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (Hardcover/ Scholastic Press/ September 2008)

If there really are only seven original plots in the world, it's odd that boy meets girl is always mentioned, and society goes bad and attacks the good guy never is. Yet we have Fahrenheit 451, The Giver, The House of the Scorpion—and now, following a long tradition of Brave New Worlds, The Hunger Games. Collins hasn't tied her future to a specific date, or weighted it down with too much finger wagging. Rather less 1984 and rather more Death Race 2000, hers is a gripping story set in a postapocalyptic world where a replacement for the United States demands a tribute from each of its territories: two children to be used as gladiators in a televised fight to the death.Katniss, from what was once Appalachia, offers to take the place of her sister in the Hunger Games, but after this ultimate sacrifice, she is entirely focused on survival at any cost. It is her teammate, Peeta, who recognizes the importance of holding on to one's humanity in such inhuman circumstances. It's a credit to Collins's skill at characterization that Katniss, like a new Theseus, is cold, calculating and still likable. She has the attributes to be a winner, where Peeta has the grace to be a good loser.It's no accident that these games are presented as pop culture. Every generation projects its fear: runaway science, communism, overpopulation, nuclear wars and, now, reality TV. The State of Panem—which needs to keep its tributaries subdued and its citizens complacent—may have created the Games, but mindless television is the real danger, the means by which society pacifies its citizens and punishes those who fail to conform. Will its connection to reality TV, ubiquitous today, date the book? It might, but for now, it makes this the right book at the right time. What happens if we choose entertainment over humanity? In Collins's world, we'll be obsessed with grooming, we'll talk funny, and all our sentences will end with the same rise as questions. When Katniss is sent to stylists to be made more telegenic before she competes, she stands naked in front of them, strangely unembarrassed. They're so unlike people that I'm no more self-conscious than if a trio of oddly colored birds were pecking around my feet, she thinks. In order not to hate these creatures who are sending her to her death, she imagines them as pets. It isn't just the contestants who risk the loss of their humanity. It is all who watch.Katniss struggles to win not only the Games but the inherent contest for audience approval. Because this is the first book in a series, not everything is resolved, and what is left unanswered is the central question. Has she sacrificed too much? We know what she has given up to survive, but not whether the price was too high. Readers will wait eagerly to learn more.

Hunted by P.C. Cast and Kristin Cast (Hardback/ St. Martin's Press/ March 2009)

What if the hottest guy in the world was hiding a nameless evil and all he wanted was you?

At the start of this heart-pounding new installment of the bestselling House of Night series, Zoey's friends have her back again and Stevie Rae and the red fledglings aren't Neferet's secrets any longer. But an unexpected danger has emerged. Neferet guards her powerful new consort, Kalona, and no one at the House of Night seems to understand the threat he poses. Kalona looks gorgeous, and he has the House of Night under his spell. A past life holds the key to breaking his rapidly spreading influence, but what if this past life shows Zoey secrets she doesn't want to hear and truths she can't face?

On the run and holed up in Tulsa's Prohibition-era tunnels, Zoey and her gang must discover a way to deal with something that might bring them all down. Meanwhile, Zoey has a few other little problems. The red fledglings have cleaned up well--they've even managed to make the dark, creepy tunnels feel more like home--but are they really as friendly as they seem? On the boyfriend front, Zoey has a chance to make things right with super-hot ex-, Eric, but she can't stop thinking about Stark, the archer who died in her arms after one unforgettable night, and she is driven to try to save him from Neferet's sinister influence at all costs. Will anyone believe the power evil has to hide among us?

Second Glance by Jodi Picoult (Paperback/ Washington Square Press/ August 2008)

It is August in Comtosook, Vt., yet suddenly the temperature fluctuates wildly, rose petals mysteriously fall like snow, patches of land are completely frozen and roiling garter snakes cover the ground. Suspense and the supernatural are artfully interwoven in this 10th novel by Picoult (Perfect Match, etc.), in which a man desperately seeks to join his fiancee in death, and a 1930s eugenics project comes back to haunt a small town in Vermont. Ever since his beloved Aimee was killed in a car accident, Ross Wakeman has deliberately put himself at risk, hoping to die. When nothing works, and a job with a paranormal investigator brings him no closer to Aimee, he moves in with his sister, Shelby, in Comtosook. As chance would have it, strange phenomena are plaguing the town, and Ross is drawn into an investigation of a piece of land that local Abenaki Indians claim is an old burial ground. In the process, he meets lovely Lia Beaumont, who has some mysterious connection to sinister goings-on 70 years before in Comtosook. Many more characters are essential to the elaborate, engrossing plot, including Spencer Pike, once a eugenics expert and now a tormented old man in a nursing home; Meredith Oliver, a genetic diagnostician with an uncanny resemblance to Lia Beaumont; and Ross's eight-year-old nephew, Ethan, who suffers from a condition that makes him allergic to sunlight. Picoult's ability to bring them all vividly to life is remarkable. Firmly rooting her otherworldly tale in everyday reality, she produces a spellbinding suspense novel offering insight into the human spirit and the depths of true love.

-Lexi (:

FTC: All links and excerpts* are from Amazon.com. I am NOT getting paid to link to them.
*Excerpt for Invisible Lines was taken from Barnes and Noble, I am also not getting paid to link to them.

Take Me There by Susane Colasanti

2009-10-20T10:00:00.000-05:00

Pub Date: May 2009

Summary: Love and friendship is all about the ups and downs.

Rhiannon.

Devastated when her boyfriend breaks up with her, all she wants is to have him back.

Nicole.

Loves seems to come easy for her. Even with her ex still in the picture, pinning for her, she’s developing a new crush.

James.

He just happens to be in love with Rhiannon, but she also happens to be his best friend.

Rhiannon just can’t seem to see that her friendship with James could be so much more.

Now throw in the school’s mean girl.

She seems to be out to ruin everyone’s lives and reputation.

But James, Nicole, and Rhiannon have taken this for too long.

They won’t let her slide by this time.

While trying to defeat the mean girl, can these three friends really get everything they want?

Rating: 4 Stars

Review: I really enjoyed reading Take Me There. It was the first book I’ve read by Susane Colasanti and she’s actually a really good author. I really like her writing style. All of the characters were really well written and she also did a really good job switching between the three point of views. In the past, I’ve noticed that some authors don’t really keep the same flow, but I liked how Take Me There flowed. You were pulled in from the very beginning and you never really lost interest in the plot or the characters. The events that occurred were real high school events too, even though some of them were not as common as others. A few times I felt a tad uncomfortable when reading from Nicole’s point of view when she’s talking about some of her feelings but I really think that made Nicole who she is. I could have given this book 5 Stars but lately I’ve been very lenient on my reviews so I’m trying to crack down. But, this book is still a VERY good read. I think a lot of people would love this book like I did if they read it. So, go read it if you haven’t already!

-Lexi (:

FTC: I purchased this novel from Borders. I did not receive it from any publishing company and/or author.

Two-Way Street by Lauren Barnholdt

2009-10-19T10:00:00.000-05:00

Pub Date: June 2007

Summary: Every breakup has two sides, two stories to tell.

Jordan and Courtney are so in love.

Even though they’re the most unlikely couple out there.

But for them, everything just slid right into place.

They clicked instantly.

Jordan and Courtney even planned to go to the same college and drive cross-country together for orientation.

Then Courtney gets dumped for some girl Jordan on the internet.

They trip still has to happen.

Courtney is heartbroken but she thinks she can make it through a few days.

She just pretends not to care the whole time.

But Jordan? He cares, a lot.

He has his own secrets he’s not telling Courtney.

It has everything to do with why they broke up and why they can’t get back together.

But, it’s also the reason Jordan and Courtney are destined to be with each other.

Rating: 3 1/2 Stars

Review: I really enjoyed Two-Way Street. I thought the plot that Lauren came up with was really cute. It’s probably been done before but she definitely added her own spin to it. Two-Way Street is told from both the point of view of Courtney and Jordan. For me, that’s a very key part to why this book is as good as it is. I loved being able to get inside Jordan’s head and know what he’s thinking. Even though you find out early on the real reason Jordan breaks up with Courtney, it doesn’t seem to ruin any of the story line. It makes one want to find out what’s going to happen in the end even more. The beginning of Two-Way Street can be kind of hard to get into, but once it gets going it really is hard to put down. I’m really glad I decided to pick up a copy of this book, it was really good. It added a new spin on the normal young adult romance.

-Lexi (:

FTC: I purchased this novel at Borders. I did not receive it through any publishing company and/or author.

In My Mailbox (10/12 to 10/17)

2009-10-18T10:00:00.001-05:00

Once Was Lost by Sara Zarr

2009-10-17T10:00:00.000-05:00

Pub Date: October 2009

Summary: What happens when you believe in miracles then everything changes?

Samara Taylor used to believe in a lot of things, miracles being one of them.

A pastor’s family is always supposed to be perfect and love God.

Sam knows all too well though, that her family isn’t close to that.

Her father’s a pastor but that doesn’t make her family perfect or God loving in any way.

Sam’s mother is currently in rehab after there’s an incident with a DUI.

Her father on the other hand, is interested in everything but his family.

His congregation knows nothing about Sam’s family.

But when there’s a local tragedy, it seems to overlap with the personal one going in within Sam.

A young girl is kidnapped and no one knows how to save her.

Someone has to stop the community from falling apart during a time where everyone needs each other.

Sam’s been worn down, she doesn’t know how to keep believe in miracles and God.

Her last thread of faith is being to unravel right in front of her eyes.

Rating: 4 Stars

Review: Sara Zarr is really an amazing author. I fall in love with her all over again once I read another book written by her. As soon as I found out she was writing Once Was Lost, I couldn't wait to read it. Story of a Girl was the first book I ever read by Sara and it really made me believe that an author gets how teenagers can be. Once Was Lost was such a powerful book that dealt with a lot of different issues. I personally believe that some authors don't tackle some hard issues going on in our society, but I think that Sara Zarr does. In everyone of her books she reminds us not to forget to believe and Once Was Lost definitely made that a bigger point that other books. It was so hard for me to up down this books because I wanted to know what was going to happen to Sam and her family so bad. All you wanted to do was help Sam through everything, she was a very well written characters. As was all of the other characters that played a part in this novel, but Sam was probably my favorite. I'm really happy that I had the chance to read this book. Everyone should really read this book, it's really amazing. I can't wait for Sara Zarr's next book!

-Lexi (:

FTC: I received this book from Little, Brown and Company.

Cirque du Freak/ The Vampire Assistant Movie Giveaway

2009-10-07T10:00:00.002-05:00

It's been awhile since I've had a giveaway, huh?
This one should be a fun one. (:

Do you love to be scared? Then don't miss the terrifying adventure that begins when Darren and his best friend, Steve, get tickets to the CIRQUE DU FREAK, a wonderfully bizarre and creepy freak show. Brace yourself for thrills and chills as the boys witness a parade of grotesque creatures and face their deepest fears by entering the darkest world of the vampire. In the blood-curdling tradition of Anne Rice and Stephen King, CIRQUE DU FREAK will have you shrieking for the next horror show!

The Vampire's Assistant movie, will be released October 23, 2009. It's based on the Cirque du Freak novels by Darren Shan. I haven't ever read the books, but after watching the movie trailer, I think I just might.

Here's the Movie Synopsis:

Cirque Du Freak: The Vampire’s Assistant, based on the popular series of books by Darren Shan, is a fantasy-adventure about a teenager who unknowingly breaks a 200-year-old truce between two warring factions of vampires. Pulled into a fantastic life of misunderstood sideshow freaks and grotesque creatures of the night, one teen will vanish from the safety of a boring existence and fulfill his destiny in a place drawn from nightmares.

There will to Two (2) very luck winners for this contest.
They will receive:

Cirque du Freak book Set
Cirque du Freak: The Vampire’s Assistant Locker Mirror

Visit the Official Website:
http://vampiresassistant.net/

Join the Vampire's Assistant Facebook Fan Page:

http://www.facebook.com/TheVampiresAssistant

CIRQUE DU FREAK has been rated PG-13 (Parents Strongly Cautioned - Some Material May Be Inappropriate for Children Under 13) for sequences of intense supernatural violence and action, disturbing images, thematic elements and some language.

This Giveaway will end on October 21st, so it's running for 2 weeks.

You must leave a comment below with your email address to be entered.

If you don't feel comfortable leaving your email address in a comment, you can email it to me. am.ernsberger@hotmail.com

Shipping Guidelines:
The Vampire’s Assistant giveaway is open to legal US residents who are at least 13 years of age as of October 1st. Prizing is only available to United States mailing address only. (International readers can enter if they have a friend in the States who can accept their prizes by mail.)

+4 Being a follower/subscriber of my blog
+2 Becoming one
+2 For each time you link to this contest from sidebar, facebook, myspace, twitter. ( Though with twitter please add @alexislovesyouu to your link, so I can track them easier, thanks!)
+5 For making a post on your blog about this contest
+5 For voting for your favorite Cirque du Freak t-shirt

Little Black Lies by Tish Cohen

2009-10-04T13:40:00.007-05:00

Pub Date: October 2009

Summary: Sara Black is losing a balancing act at the most elite school in Boston.

Anton High isn’t your usual high school.

Most students can’t get in after freshman year.

But if you’re like Sara and your father is the janitor, you have no problem getting in.

No one knows her past; she can be whoever she wants.

Sara Black can reinvent herself like never before.

Everything Sara has been running from almost disappears.

She can pretend that her mother didn’t run off with her science teacher.

That maybe her father’s OCD will soon be under control.

When Sara has a slip of the tongue, students think she’s from London.

London, England that is.

But really, she's just a normal girl from Lundon, Massachusetts.

Sara Black has to learn the hard way that some little lies can come back to haunt
you.

Especially when one of the most popular girls at school is out to get you.

Rating: 3 1/2 Stars

Review: I really enjoyed reading Little Black Lies. I loved the story line and the plot, they were so unique. It had romance, father-daughter relationship, friendship, adventure, finding yourself, divorce, and even illnesses. I think everyone could relate to something in this book. Sara was a very interesting character, very complex but yet oh so likable. You really wanted to be her friend and you understood, somewhat, of where she was coming from. Sara was definitely the character that really pulled you in from the very beginning. All of the characters were actually very well written, as was the way they all interacted. A reader could tell from almost the beginning of the book that Sara's relationship with her father was very stressed. She really wanted her father's battle with OCD to be over with, she wanted him to get the help that she knew he needed. A part of Sara though, did blame her mother for causing her father's illness to come back. But the end of this novel you can really see the journey Sara Black took to try to find herself and make sense of everything in her life. I really enjoyed reading Little Black Lies, and with a tittle like that how could you not?

-Lexi (:

In My Mailbox (9/28 to 10/3)

2009-10-03T14:13:00.003-05:00

Giving Up The V by Serena Robar

2009-09-30T10:00:00.000-05:00

Pub Date: June 2009

Summary: Are you really ever ready to “give up the V”?

Spencer Davis is known as the responsible one.

She knows she is not ready to “give up the V” at all even though her friends are becoming obsessed with everything to do with.. “It”.

Spencer’s male friends are the worst.

They all claim to be experts in the matter and offer to help her lose that one tiny letter.

This only embarrasses Spencer more.

Then Benjamin enters the picture.

He’s the new-kid at school and everyone falls for him.

Benjamin is hot and funny and great to be around.

Even Spencer agrees with her friends.

When Spencer and Benjamin become closer, she starts to rethink everyone.

Is being responsible really as great as she wants to make it out to be?

Maybe Benjamin is really the right guys go loves her V-Card with.

Rating: 4 Stars

Review: One word: AMAZING! Giving Up The V was everything I expected it to be and more! Lately I've been reading a lot of books that make me think about my life and this was definitely another one of those books. I think every girl should read this book. You should ALWAYS think about what could happen before you have sex. Giving Up The V shows how even though you might be some one of the most responsible people, you can still make mistakes. I'm so glad I read this book. Even after someone has sex for the first time and they aren't really sure where to go from there, they can read this book and really figure some things out. It can really teach you a lot of things. The most important thing that I really took from this book is that guys won't always be there for you but you're friends are. What's meant to be will always be. Read this book guys. Even if you old, there's still a lot you can take from it.

-Lexi (:

And Then Everything Unraveled by Jennifer Sturman

2009-09-29T10:00:00.000-05:00

Pub Date: July 2009

Summary: A Disappearance. A Clue. A Kiss.

Delia Truesdale doesn’t know that her life is about to change forever.

She’s too caught up enjoying her Californian summer.

Delia’s mother, T.K., is our of town on business, which leaves Delia home alone.

She get’s to spend all her free time doing the one thing she loves, surfing.

Then, everything unravels.

T.K. goes missing.

Everyone, except Delia, thinks she’s as good as dead.

But Delia knows her mother too well.

She knows T.K. is too organized to just die and leave Delia all alone.

But Delia is sent to live her two aunts anyway.

They happen to be nothing alike and Delia is left in the middle.

As if that’s not enough, she has to deal with a new high school full of snobby rich kids and finds herself falling for the wrong guy.

When Delia gets deeper into the mystery of her mother’s death, she finds that maybe the wrong guy is the right now.

But also that some secrets weren’t meant to be unraveled.

Rating: 3 1/2 Stars

Review: At first I wasn't too excited to start reading And Then Everything Unraveled. Once I started it though, I couldn't stop! Jennifer Sturman had by the first page. All of the characters were just so well written and you couldn't help but like them. This book had so many different elements to it but everything really fit together quite perfectly. I did only give this books a 3 1/2 though, but I've been pretty lenient on my ratings and such so I'm trying to get a little tougher. Over all this was a really good book. I'm glad I got the chance to read it. Sometimes I do judge a book by the cover, but this one really proved me wrong. (: If you have the chance to read And Then Everything Unraveled take it! I promise you, you won't be disappointed. Plus the ending hints at maybeeee a sequel!

-Lexi (:

Blue Moon by Alyson Noel

2009-09-28T10:00:00.001-05:00

Pub Date: July 2009

Summary: Ever is learning everything she can about being immortal, her abilities, and her new world from Damen.

Soon, something terrible happens to Damen.

His powers begin to fade. His illness threatens his memories, his identity, his life, his love.

As all of this happens, Ever grows stronger everyday.

Wanting to find a way to save Damen, Ever travels to Summerland.

It's here Ever discovers his past, which he wanted to keep a secret, and an ancient text revealing the workings of time.

The approaching blue moon is Ever's only window for travel.

Ever has a big choice ahead of her.

Turning back the clock and saving her family or staying in the present to save Damen.

Rating: 3 1/2 Stars

Review: I love Alyson Noel. She's an amazing writer and I love the Immortal series. I personally like Evermore more then this one over all, BUT this one was still really amazing . While this book did have a lot of suspense, I think it lacked a little bit in some places. I did have really high expectations though. This book didn't make me dislike the series at all though. I didn't see the ending of Blue Moon coming at all! It was so unpredictable, the whole book was kind of unpredictable. I didn't want to put it down because I needed to know what was going to happen to Ever, what decision she was going to make. The decision Alyson Noel created for Ever was something anyone would have a hard time with. But Ever handled it the right way, she took everything into consideration, she did what she thought was best for everyone involved, even her dead family. Haha, this review is really hard to write without giving anything away! Just read Blue Moon, you really won't regret it at all. (: The ending will seriously blow you away.

-Lexi (:

Annie's Baby: The Diary of Anonymous, Pregnant Teenager

2009-09-27T17:00:00.000-05:00

Pub Date: December 2004

Summary: Pregnancy comes with not only major responsibilities but mixed emotions and big decisions.

When Annie finds out that her boyfriend got her pregnant, she’s devastated.

She feels more alone then ever before.

No one knows, so with no one to turn to, Annie pours her heart out to her diary daily.

Panic. Self-doubt. Desperate. Hope.

Every day Annie has so many different emotions running through her.

She always has hope though, that she can one day turn her life around.

Keeping the baby or giving it up.

Annie dreads making that decision every day.

But in the end, she decides to keep it.

She always dreams of loving and caring for it.

Even though Annie has no one there for support and help her, she never once thinks about giving up the baby.

But how long can she really raise a child on her own?

Rating: 4 1 / 2 Stars

Review: I've heard so many amazing things about Annie's Baby. I really wanted to read it and when I found out Ashley owned a copy I wanted to borrow it right away! Going into this book I kind of knew what to expect but yet not really. The way it's written is pretty good for just being a teenagers diary. While reading this book I started to rethink some of the things in my life and I love it when a book can do that. This book really had an impact on me. It made me remember that your decisions really can end badly even if you take the measures to try to prevent it. I think that Annie really had some hard decisions to make in the book, but in the end she made everything right again. Well as right as they could be. It would take a lot for a teenager to raise a baby. We may not like to believe it, but we're still babies ourselves. Teenagers shouldn't have to raise a baby by themselves. To prevent this and other things from happening you really just have to prevent this from happening. You can't put yourself in a situation that can end like this. I really want to own a copy of this book. I really did enjoy reading it.

-Lexi(:

In My Mailbox (Let's Play Catch Up!)

2009-09-27T10:00:00.000-05:00

I've been a horrible blogger lately :( School has been really rough on me this year, mostly stupid drama, but I'm gonna be better at it starting now! Thanks for still being there for me guys. (:

Lots of books to post about because I haven't done an IMM in SOOO long. So this week we're just gonna play a game of catch up. (:

In My Mailbox was started by The Story Siren and Alea from Pop Culture Junkie. If you want more details, click here. In My Mailbox explores all the books that I get in a week, whether it's in the mail, borrowed from a friend, borrowed from the library, or bought from a bookstore.

Recived:

No Right Turn by Terry Trueman (Paperback/ September 2009/ HarperTeen)

Suicide is never pretty but Jordan has no qualms about describing the day his father shot himself three years earlier. Angry and traumatized, he is slow to heal, especially since he refuses to discuss his feelings. Now 16, the teen has isolated himself from everyone and all of his former interests. When his mom begins dating again, he is barely cordial to her new boyfriend, Don, but is nevertheless intrigued by the mans vintage Corvette. Jordan becomes hooked on the thrill of riding with Don and risks the budding friendship by borrowing the car without permission. Bolstered by the adrenaline rush and sense of freedom, his joyriding becomes addictive and rewarding when he catches the attention of the girl of his dreams. He continues taking the car at every opportunity, and readers fear what his friend Walt has warned all along: Jordan is finally busted after speeding. Reclaiming his girls and Dons trust requires uncorking bottled emotions about his fathers death. The first-person point of view works well here, as Jordan acts upon gut feelings, rationalizes his behavior, and waffles back and forth with guilt. The description of the suicide scene is realistic and powerful, and great dialogue and car details keep the plot moving for reluctant readers.

Beating Heart by A.M. Jenkins (Paperback/ August 2009/ HarperTeen)

Evan, 17, doesnt think much of his creaky, fixer-upper new home. His mom seems to be spending more time on it than she does at work or with his five-year-old sister. In addition to the three of them, the rickety house is inhabited by the ghost of Cora, a teen who lived there nearly 100 years earlier, and whose effervescent, whispery poetry makes up much of the novels text. Most of her thoughts are about Evan, how beautiful he is and how much he reminds her of a past lover. Her words are hauntingly erotic as she admires him from a distance, in his bedroom, in the bathroom while he showers. He is intrigued by her story, especially when he examines a box of her familys files and photographs found hidden in the walls of the house. She begins to appear in his dreams, causing him to question whether he truly loves his girlfriend, Carrie, with whom hes had an intimate relationship for over a year. Jenkinss novel is subtly eerie–a razor-sharp plot enfolded in a bed of feathery down, and a coming-of-age story about two teenagers–one dead, one alive–who learn that the lines between love and sex are much more blurred than they could have ever imagined.

Viola in Reel Life by Adriana Trigiani (Hardcover/ September 2009/ HarperTeen/ Signed)

I'm marooned.

Abandoned.

Left to rot in boarding school . . .

Viola doesn't want to go to boarding school, but somehow she ends up at an all-girls school in South Bend, Indiana, far, far away from her home in Brooklyn, New York. Now Viola is stuck for a whole year in the sherbet-colored sweater capital of the world.

Ick.

There's no way Viola's going to survive the year—especially since she has to replace her best friend Andrew with three new roommates who, disturbingly, actually seem to like it there. She resorts to viewing the world (and hiding) behind the lens of her video camera.

Boarding school, though, and her roommates and even the Midwest are nothing like she thought they would be, and soon Viola realizes she may be in for the most incredible year of her life.

But first she has to put the camera down and let the world in.

The Ex Games by Jennifer Echols (Paperback/ September 2009/ Simon Pulse/ Signed)

Brace yourself for the battle of the exes....

Hayden and Nick used to be a hot item, but their brief affair ended with a highly publicized breakup. Now the two are "just friends," excluding the occasional flirtation.

When Hayden wins the girls' division of a local snowboarding competition, Nick is unimpressed, claiming that Hayden wouldn't have a chance against a guy. Hayden calls Nick's bluff and challenges him to a head-to-head boarding contest. Their mutual friends quickly take sides, the girls on Hayden's and the boys on Nick's, making for an all-out battle of the sexes. This friendly competition is bound to get heated -- and they might end up igniting some old flames.

I Can't Keep My Own Secrets: Six Word Memoirs by Teens Famous and Obscure (Paperback/ September 2009/ HarperTeen)

The New York Times bestseller NOT QUITE WHAT I WAS PLANNING made six-word memoirs an international phenomenon, as people around the world embraced this pithy new format. The editors of the collection found that some of the most poignant entries were coming from teens-and so this newest collection is entirely by and for those smart, sassy, and angst-filled truth tellers. From navigating the hazardous halls of high school, to dealing with extreme situations at home, these writers may be young, but their stories will resonate with people of all ages. A few sample memoirs: I live bigger than your labels. Aspiration: Colonize Mars. You-re not invited. Fifteen and my mom has cancer. Homecoming king with a septum ring. Friend. Boyfriend. Ex-boyfriend. Friend. Friend's Boyfriend.

Taken by Storm by Angela Morrison (Hardback/ March 2009/ Razorbill/ Signed)

Leesie Hunt has many rules: No kissing. No sex. No dating outside the Mormon faith.
When Michael Walden—a deep-sea diver who lost his parents in a violent hurricane—arrives in town, Leesie sees someone who needs her. They fall for one another, even though his dreams are tied to the depths of the ocean and hers to salvation above.

Will their intense chemistry be too strong to resist?

Leesie and Michael must make the hardest choice of their lives: whether to follow their beliefs or their hearts.

Readers will be swept away by this tale of forbidden romance told in online chats, Leesie’s chapbook poems, and Michael’s dive log. It’s as steamy as Twilight and just as clean.

Sing Me To Sleep by Angela Morrison (ARC/ March 2010/ Razorbill/ Signed)

THE TRANSFORMATION

Beth has always been “The Beast”—that’s what everyone at school calls her because of her awkward height, facial scars, and thick glasses. Beth’s only friend is geeky, golden-haired Scott. That is, until she’s selected to be her choir’s soprano soloist, and receives the makeover that will change her life forever.

THE LOVE AFFAIR

When Beth’s choir travels to Switzerland, she meets Derek: pale, brooding, totally dreamy. Derek’s untethered passion—for music, and for Beth—leaves her breathless. Because in Derek’s eyes? She’s not The Beast, she’s The Beauty.

THE IMPOSSIBLE CHOICE

When Beth comes home, Scott, her best friend in the world, makes a confession that leaves her completely torn. Should she stand by sweet, steady Scott or follow the dangerous, intense new feelings she has for Derek?

THE HEARTBREAK

The closer Beth gets to Derek, the further away he seems. Then Beth discovers that Derek’s been hiding a dark secret from her …one that could shatter everything.

Secret Society by Tom Dolby (Hardcover/ September 2009/ HarperTeen)

Secrets, secrets are no fun. Secrets, secrets hurt someone. . . .

An eccentric new girl. A brooding socialite. The scion of one of New York's wealthiest families. A promising filmmaker. As students at the exclusive Chadwick School, Phoebe, Lauren, Nick, and Patch already live in a world most teenagers only dream about.

They didn't ask to be Society members. But when three of them receive a mysterious text message promising success and fame beyond belief, they say yes to everything—even to the harrowing initiation ceremony in a gritty warehouse downtown and to the ankh-shaped tattoo they're forced to get on the nape of their necks. Once they're part of the Society, things begin falling into place for them. Week after week, their ambitions are fulfilled. It's all perfect—until a body is found in Central Park with no distinguishing marks except for an ankh-shaped tattoo.

Tom Dolby makes his teen fiction debut with this riveting novel about a dangerous society so secret that once you get in, you can never get out.

Romeo and Juliet by William Shakespeare (Paperback/ October 2009/ HaperTeen)

These violent delights have violent ends
And in their triumph die, like fire and powder,
Which, as they kiss, consume.

When Romeo first lays eyes on the bewitching Juliet, it's love at first sight. But though their love runs true and deep, it is also completely forbidden. With family and fate determined to keep them apart, will Romeo and Juliet find a way to be together?

William Shakespeare's masterpiece is one of the most enduring stories of star-crossed love of all time. Beautifully presented for a modern teen audience with both the original play and a prose retelling of the beloved story, this is the must-have edition of a timeless classic.

Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte (Paperback/ October 2009/ HarperTeen)

I cannot live without my life!

I cannot live without my soul!

When Catherine and Heathcliff's childhood friendship grows into something so much more, what ensues is one of the greatest love stories of all time. Even as fate conspires against them and passion consumes them, nothing can keep Catherine and Heathcliff apart. Not even death . . . for their forbidden love is unlike any other.

Emily BrontË's masterpiece remains as compelling and thrilling as ever. Beautifully presented for a modern teen audience, this is the must-have edition of a timeless classic.

Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen (Paperback/ October 2009/ HarperTeen)

"Darcy had never been so bewitched by any woman as he was by her."

With all the forces of the world conspiring to keep Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth Bennet apart, how will fate manage to bring them together? It certainly won't be easy if they're fighting it every step of the way. But theirs is a love that was meant to be, despite all the odds against them.

One of the most captivating love stories of all time, Jane Austen's enduring masterpiece is beloved by generation after generation. Beautifully presented for a modern teen audience, this is the must-have edition of a timeless classic.

Switch by Carol Snow (Paperback/ August 2009/ HarperTeen)

Claire Martin has some serious body issues.

Ever since Claire hit her teens, electrical storms have been making her switch bodies. Usually she's back to her old self in no time. But when something goes terribly wrong, she finds herself stuck in the fabulous body—and life—of Larissa, the icy blonde beauty who has caught the eye of Nate, Claire's longtime crush.

Will Claire ever figure out how to get her old life back? And, more importantly, will she even want to?

Snap by Carol Snow (Hardback/ August 2009/ HarperTeen)

Madison Sabatini thought she knew who she was: an almost-sophomore with a bright future. The newest photographer on her school paper. A shopaholic with great hair and a fabulous wardrobe. Then, in a flash, everything changed.

Now she's stuck in Sandyland, a gloomy beach town in the middle of nowhere, living with her parents in a crappy hotel "suite." Instead of spending the summer with her friends at home, she's hanging out with pink-haired Delilah, an artist who works in a shop called Psychic Photo, and a skater boy named Duncan who's totally not her type. Except, maybe he is . . .

Determined to make the best of things, Madison throws herself into her one passion: photography. But when strange figures start appearing in her pictures—people who weren't there when she snapped the shots, people who are later reported dead—she begins to question everything about who she is . . . and who she wishes she could be.

Bought:

Hunger by Michael Grant (Hardback/ May 2009/ HarperTeen)

In the second in a planned six-book series, the children of Perdito Beach, CA, have survived without adults for three months following the FAYZ, a nuclear event that caused everyone over the age of 14 to vanish and an impenetrable barrier to rise for 20 miles around the town. Now their food is almost gone, and in their desperation and fear, the young people are beginning to sort themselves into factions; those without special powers opposing those who have them. To add to the suspense, a terrifying presence that calls itself the Gaiaphage, a being of overwhelming hunger, is insinuating itself into the minds of the susceptible. Like Gone (HarperTeen, 2008), this novel is not for the faint of heart or weak of stomach. Nonstop action and recurring scenes of graphic violence, death, and torture will keep readers on the edge of their seats as they race toward the climactic cliff-hanger ending.

Two-Way Street by Lauren Barnholdt (Paperback/ June 2007/ Simon Pulse)

There are two sides to every breakup.

This is Jordan and Courtney, totally in love. Sure, they were an unlikely high school couple. But they clicked; it worked. They're even going to the same college, and driving cross-country together for orientation.

Then Jordan dumps Courtney -- for a girl he met on the Internet.

It's too late to change plans, so the road trip is on. Courtney's heartbroken, but figures she can tough it out for a few days. La la la -- this is Courtney pretending not to care.

But in a strange twist, Jordan cares. A lot.

Turns out, he's got a secret or two that he's not telling Courtney. And it has everything to do with why they broke up, why they can't get back together, and how, in spite of it all, this couple is destined for each other.

Take Me There by Susane Colasanti (Paperback/ May 2009/ Speak)

This tale has likable and realistic teen characters. It takes place over an event-filled week, with Rhiannon, Nicole, and James telling the same story from their individual perspectives. Rhiannon is devastated by her recent breakup with Steve. Nicole has broken up with Danny for no apparent reason, and he is determined to win her back. James, who has always been Rhiannon's best friend, is finding his feelings for her undergoing a dramatic change. Many humorous events occur, including Rhiannon's surefire plan to get Steve back that backfires. Readers will be intrigued by how the same incidents can be seen in so many different lights. They may also gain perspective on how one action can have very different consequences for people. The story also addresses several difficult and all-too-common problems that many teens face. Nicole realizes that Sheila is being physically abused by her boyfriend and is able to get her some professional help. Nicole has her own dark secret—her father is sexually abusing her. It's through her interactions with her friends that she is finally able to acknowledge the abuse and start to get on with her life. Teens who are dealing with their own problems will benefit from the hopeful resolution of this story.

Borders.

2009-09-26T18:00:00.000-05:00

Ahh, I went to Borders last night!

I love Borders. (:

They had a buy two get the third book free sale going on! Amazinggg. (:

Just to add to that, I also had a $15 gift card that I got for my birthday.

So basically I just bought one book, haha. :D

Here's the books I got.

Two-Way Street by Lauren Barnholdt

Take Me There by Susane Colasanti

Hunger by Michael Grant

I've wanted to read all of these books FOREVER.

Now I get to. (:

Also, here's the only book I got as a gift for my birthday, haha.

The Vampire Diaries: The Awakening and The Struggle by L.J. Smith

So many great books!

I'm really excited.

-Lexi (:

Read-A-Thon

2009-09-26T13:04:00.002-05:00

Yay, I actually have time to readdd!

I'm going to start reading Ash today, hopefully finish it, haha.

I have about 25 review books/ARC's that I really need to start reading!

I also need to write like 5 reivews and set them to post.

IMM post coming tomorrow! (:

-Lexi (:

Holy Crap!

2009-09-15T18:55:00.003-05:00

I haven't posted in soooo long!

I feel like I've left my blog.

I'm only a month into school and I barely have any time left.

School is seriously crazy this year!

I thought freshman year was bad, sophomore year is worse!

Don't stop following my blog guys!

I have some review coming soon and maybe even a few contests (:

I'm also like three weeks behind on In My Mailbox.

Here's a quick look at what I've gotten:

-No Right Turn by Terry Trueman
-Beathing Hear by A.M. Jenkins
-Viola in Reel Life by Adriana Trigiani
-The Ex Games by Jennifer Echols
-I Can't Keep My Own Secrets by Teens Famous and Obscure
-Taken By Storm by Angela Morrison (up for contest soon)
-Sing Me To Sleep by Angela Morrison
-Secret Society by Tom Dolby

The official IMM post will be up coming soon!

I might write it now and set it to post tomorrow or I might just wait until Sunday, I'm not sure yet.

But I know I will try my best to be posting again soon!

Sorry guys.

-Lexi (:

In My Mailbox (8/24 to 8/29)

2009-08-30T12:55:00.002-05:00

In My Mailbox was started by The Story Siren and Alea from Pop Culture Junkie. If you want more details, click here. In My Mailbox explores all the books that I get in a week, whether it's in the mail, borrowed from a friend, borrowed from the library, or bought from a bookstore.

Recived:

The Snowball Effect by Holly Nicole Hoxter (ARC/ March 2009/ HarperTeen)

18-year-old Lainey Pike can tell you everything you need to know about the people in her family just by telling you how they died. Her reckless stepfather drove his motorcycle off the highway and caused the biggest traffic jam in years. Her long-suffering grandmother lived through cancer and a heart attack before finally succumbing to a stroke. And Lainey's mother, still devastated over her husband's death, hung herself in the basement just days after Lainey's high school graduation. Now Lainey's five-year-old brother is an orphan and her estranged older sister moves back home to act as his guardian. Dealing with her brother has always been a struggle, but sharing the responsibility with her sister is proving to be just as challenging.

Lainey knows that this is all her mother's fault, but she also knows that she eventually has to move out of the "anger" phase of the grieving process. What she can't figure out, though, is how to make peace with a dead woman.

Hancock Park by Isabel Kaplan (Already Published/ June 2009/ HarperTeen)

Becky Miller lives in the best neighborhood, goes to school with the children of movie stars, and has her psychiatrist on speed dial. She may live in the City of Angels, but this sixteen-year-old's life is far from perfect.

By day, Becky navigates the halls of one of L.A.'s most elite schools, where the mean girls are a special breed of mean, and at night, she deals with sparring parents, a grandmother who is man-crazy, and a younger brother, Jack, who answers only to J-zizzy. As Becky's life comes crashing down around her, she struggles to put it back together and learn to grow up while trying to stay sane.

Isabel Kaplan dishes the dirt on the children of Hollywood's elite—from Spago delivered to campus at lunch and shrinks who dole out psychotropic drugs as though they're candy to parent-free parties at the Four Seasons—the lives of Becky and her creator, Isabel Kaplan, are like no other, and yet strangely, just like everyone's.

The Stolen One by Suzanne Crowley (Already Published/ June 2009/ Greenwillow Books)

When her adoptive mother dies, Katherine Bab takes the chance she has been waiting for her whole life: she moves from her country village to London, to uncover the secret of who she really is. Before long, Kat has become a favorite of Queen Elizabeth herself, and rumors are swirling - could fiery-haired Kat be the secret daughter of the Virgin Queen? Kat's got plenty of other things to figure out, as well . . . such as how to choose between her childhood love and two handsome men at court vying for her affection.

This smart, sensual novel drips with intrigue, period detail, and drama and will resonate with anyone who has ever longed to find his or her place in the world.

Living on Impulse by Cara Haycak (Already Published/ August 2009/ Dutton Juvenile)

Mia Morrow is impulsive, plain and simple. While her friends are concerned with grades and colleges, Mia would rather focus on the things that make her happy— like chasing boys or snatching something off a department store shelf. No big deal, right? But then Mia gets caught shoplifting, and her thoughtless behavior doesn’t just push her friends away, it gets her into a lot of trouble, too. In this eye-opening tale of friendships, family, and negative impulses, Cara Haycak subtly shows that the power to heal is within all of us, and it almost always starts with forgiveness.

Avalon High: Coronation 3 by Meg Cabot. Illustrated by Jinky Coronado (ARC/ September 2009/ HarperCollins)

The exciting conclusion to Meg Cabot's magical Arthurian manga!

Ellie has only one day left to get her boyfriend Will to truly believe he's the reincarnation of King Arthur, or the world will plunge into eternal darkness. But Will refuses to believe her! Meanwhile, the upcoming Homecoming game and dance have everyone distracted, especially Ellie. Some people aren't too happy about her Homecoming Queen nomination and are determined to cause trouble. Ellie's got to save her reputation and the world before the new moon on the night of Homecoming brings them all to a dangerous crossroad. If Ellie can't convince Will of his destiny, the world may never recover. . . .

This manga series of Arthurian legend and high school romance comes to a thrilling climax in this final volume. And just remember—anything can happen if you believe!

As You Wish by Jackson Pearce (Already Published/ August 2009/ HarperTeen)

Ever since Viola's boyfriend broke up with her, she has spent her days silently wishing—to have someone love her again and, more importantly, to belong again—until one day she inadvertently summons a young genie out of his world and into her own. He will remain until she makes three wishes.

Jinn is anxious to return home, but Viola is terrified of wishing, afraid she will not wish for the right thing, the thing that will make her truly happy. As the two spend time together, the lines between master and servant begin to blur, and soon Jinn can't deny that he's falling for Viola. But it's only after Viola makes her first wish that she realizes she's in love with Jinn as well . . . and that if she wishes twice more, he will disappear from her life—and her world—forever.

Jackson Pearce spins a magical tale about star-crossed lovers, what it means to belong . . . and how important it is to be careful what you wish for.

Invisible I: The Amanda Project by Stella Lennon (ARC/ September 2009/ HarperTeen)

Amanda Valentino changed everything.

Callie Leary has exactly one thing, and one thing only, in common with Nia Rivera and Hal Bennett: They were each chosen by Amanda to be her guide. When Amanda arrived at Endeavor High, she told Callie she moves around a lot and always picks one person to help her navigate the choppy waters of a new school. Why did Amanda lie?

Following a course that they suspect Amanda deliberately plotted, Callie, Nia, and Hal piece together some cryptic clues. But they find more questions than answers and quickly realize that before they can figure out what happened to Amanda—the girl who changed their lives—they'll need to solve the most important mystery of all: Who is Amanda Valentino?

The Miles Between by Mary E. Pearson (ARC/ September 2009/ Henry Holt and Co.)

Destiny Faraday makes a point of keeping her distance from her classmates at Hedgebrook Academy. Her number-one rule: Don’t get attached. But one day, unexpectedly finding a car at their disposal, Destiny and three of her classmates embark on an unauthorized road trip.

They’re searching for one fair day—a day where the good guy wins and everything adds up to something just and right. Their destination: Langdon, a town that Destiny’s unsuspecting companions hope will hold simply a day of fun. But, as Destiny says, “Things are not always what they seem.” Only she knows that Langdon holds far more than that—a deep secret she has never shared with anyone.

The Miles Between explores the wonder andmagic of a very real world where chance, mystery, and secrets abound.

The Life of Glass by Jillian Cantor (ARC/ Febuary 2010/ HarperTeen)

Before he died, Melissa’s father told her about stars. He told her that the brightest stars weren’t always the most beautiful—that if people took the time to look at the smaller stars, if they looked with a telescope at the true essence of the star, they would find real beauty. But even though Melissa knows that beauty isn’t only skin deep, the people around her don’t seem to feel that way. There’s her gorgeous sister Ashley who will barely acknowledge Melissa at school, there's her best friend Ryan, who may be falling in love with the sophisticated Courtney, and there’s Melissa’s mother who’s dating someone new, someone who Melissa knows will never be able to replace her father.

To make sure she doesn’t lose her father completely, Melissa spends her time trying to piece together the last of his secrets and completing a journal her father began—one about love and relationships and the remarkable ways people find one another. But when tragedy strikes, Melissa has to start living and loving in the present, as she realizes that being beautiful on the outside doesn't mean you can't be beautiful on the inside.

This is a lyrical tale of love, loss and self-discovery from the author of THE SEPTEMBER SISTERS.

In A Heartbeat by Loretta Ellsworth (ARC/ Febuary 2010/ Walker Books for Young Readers)

Story of a heart transplant told in alternating chapters between two girls: the heart transplant recipient and the heart transplant donor. When Eagan dies during a figure skating competition, Amelia receives her heart, but when she experiences new personality traits, she questions whether she's received more than just a heart.

Daughters of the Sea: Hannah by Kathryn Lasky (ARC/ September 2009/ Scholastic Inc.)

Daughters of the Sea tells the story of 3 mermaid sisters who are separated at birth by a storm and go on to lead three very different lives. Book 1 is about Hannah, who spent her early days in an orphanage and is now a scullery maid in the house of rich, powerful family. She is irresistibly drawn to the sea and through a series of accidents and encounters discovers her true identity. Hannah relizes that she must keep the truth a secret but she also knows that soon she will have to make the choice - to be a creature of the land or the sea.

WOW. Amazing week! What did you guys get?

-Lexi(:

Jumping Off Swings by Jo Knowles

2009-08-28T10:00:00.002-05:00

Pub Date: August 11, 2009

Summary: It was supposed to be just a simple one night stand.

Ellie has hooked up with many guys.

Each time she hopes there will be more than the sex.

When she’s with them, she always feels loved.

But it never lasts.

When Josh, a virgin with a troubled life, leads Elle to the back of his van she follows.

Their “one-time-thing” comes with complications.

Ellie ends up pregnant.

Josh doesn’t know how to deal.

Caleb and Corinne, their close friends, deal with their own swirl of emotions while all of this happens.

All four teens will be forced to grow up faster.

No matter what Ellie chooses none of their lives will be the same again.

Rating: 5 Stars

Review: I had been waiting forever to read Jumping Off Swings. I had really high expectations and Jo Knowles definitely surpassed them. I fell in love with this book from the beginning. It pulled me in right away, it was so descriptive. I felt like I was actually there. The characters were so well written, everything about this book just flowed. There was never a moment when I was like "Couldn't something better happen?". Every part of this book was amazing, I'm so glad I got to read it. But, I think one of the best parts of this book is that it really makes you think. After reading this book I really thought about a lot of my past decisions and the effect they have on everyone around me, not just myself. I actually changed somethings in my life after completing this book. I'm a lot happier with my life now and I really think I owe it to Jumping Off Swings and especially Jo Knowles. You should read this book the first chance you get.

-Lexi(:

In My Mailbox (8/17 to 8/22)

2009-08-23T15:28:00.000-05:00

After by Amy Efaw

2009-08-19T10:00:00.000-05:00

Pub Date: August 20, 2009

Summary: Who would leave their own baby in the trash to die?

Devon would never do that, or would she?

Straight-A student. Star soccer player. More mature then her own mother.

No one can imagine why Devon did what she did.

But panic and desperation played a major part.

Now Devon is in a juvenile detention center.

She’s being charged with attempted murder.

If Devon is tried as an adult, she will spend her whole life in jail.

All her dreams will be destroyed.

Devon says that she didn’t know she was pregnant.

Was she in such denial that she couldn’t see the signs?

Or did Devon have a devious, premeditated plan?

As Devon faces a future behind bars, the truth will slowly come out.

Rating: 5 Stars

Review: I loved After. It was an amazing book. Amy Efaw is such an amazing writer. I really couldn’t put this book down. The characters were amazing and pulled me in from the very beginning. I'm so lucky that I had the chance to read this book before it's published. I loved this book from the beginning. Everything about it just pulled me in. The middle of the book wasn't slow at all like some books are. But the ending for this book, took my breath away. I was not expecting it at ALL. It fit the book so wonderfully. In the back of my mind, I knew this book would have an unexpected ending. It was just needed, but I didn't see it ending this way. I think that's why I really loved this book. You have to read this book the first chance you get!

-Lexi(:

The Comeback by Marlene Perez

2009-08-17T10:00:00.001-05:00

Pub Date: August 1, 2009

Summary: Sometimes all the drama happens backstage.

Sophie Donnelly thinks she has it all.

The Hot Boyfriend. The Cool Friends. The Lead in her school’s play.

Then Angie Vogel shows up.

In record time, she takes away everything Sophie thought was so important.

But, there’s only room for one star, one top drama queen.

Sophie’s going to do anything it takes to get back what was her.

No matter what things she might lose in the process.

Her best friend. The guy that might be her true love. The career at the high school drama star.

Once she realizes what she CAN have, will she want to get everything back?

Rating: 3 1/2 Stars

Review: I really enjoyed reading The Comeback. I thought that it was a really cute book. The characters were all well written and very likeable no matter what bad things they did. While reading this book you start to feel sorry for Sophie, but you don’t really want her to get back her old life. You start to notice that she could be a lot happier if she just leaves everything alone and lets them fall into place. I was definitely pulled into this book from the beginning. I actually read it in one sitting. I wanted to know what was going to happen, I needed to know it.

This book might be up for a contest, haven’t decided yet so keep a look out!

-Lexi(:

In My Mailbox (8/3 to 8/8 and 8/10 to 8/15)

2009-08-16T10:00:00.000-05:00

Fade to Blue by Sean Beaudoin

2009-08-15T10:00:00.000-05:00

Pub Date: August 1, 2009

Summary: Ever wonder how long it takes to lose your mind?

Sophie Blue

Sarcastic. Artistic. Gothic.

A year ago on her birthday, her father left.

Or maybe he joined a cult.

Or just combusted.

No one really knows.

But he had bad timing because now Sophie’s being followed.

A Popsicle truck with tinted windows has started circling her house.

Kenny Fade

Basketball Star. Popular. The guy every girl wants.

He’s got everything.

The cheerleader. The title.

Every girl (and their moms) would do anything to have him.

Sophie and Kenny don’t have anything in common.

They’re very different.

Except for the fact that they both think they’re losing their minds.

Rating: 1 Star

Review: I’m sorry, but I really didn’t enjoy this book. I thought it sounded interesting enough when I read the summary online, but it’s so different when you read it. I really gave this book a chance, but I was not into it at all. I think it’s definitely for people with an acquired taste in what they read. If you think you would enjoy this book, then by all means, read it. I think that the plot was a very interesting idea; I just didn’t like the writing style very much. This was the first time I’ve read anything by Sean Beaudoin so maybe I just didn’t know what to expect. Even though I didn’t really like Fade to Blue I still want to give Going Nowhere Faster a try.

Stay tuned for contest details!

-Lexi(:

My Big Nose and Other Natural Disasters by Sydney Salter

2009-08-12T10:00:00.000-05:00

Pub Date: April 2009

Summary: The Summer of Passion.

For seventeen-year-old Jory Michaels, she hopes the next three months are the best summer ever.

Spending time with her best friends. Obsessing over her crush. Trying to find what she is passionate about. Saving money for a nose job.

The only thing that stand between Jory and her happiness is her nose, the Super Schnozz.

To cover the cost of surgery, Jory takes up a job delivering wedding cakes.

But she forgets to mention that she is accident prone.

Jory tries to find her passion by trying yoga, trying to become a foreign film buff, but to her, nothing is as good as finding a boyfriend.

But, to Jory, that can't happen until she loses the Super Schnozz.

She soon discovers though, that the beautiful person she want to become, may not be as perfect as she wants to be.

Rating: 3 Stars

Review: My Big Nose was kind of a disappointing book. The beginning was too slow. I wasn't really pulled into the story as I hoped to be. The middle and ending though, did pick up a bit to the point where I ended up loving the end. Jory was such a cute character. I didn't like her that much at first, but by the ending I wanted to be her friend. I thought it was nice how she was there for her friends but I didn't like how obsessed she was with getting a nose job. I know that people out there are like that, but I think people, girls especially, should be comfortable in their body. I think that I might read this book again, but I do recommend it to readers.

-Lexi(:

Secrets of Truth and Beauty by Megan Frazer

2009-08-11T10:00:00.000-05:00

Pub Date: July 2009

Summary: Dara Cohen was the cutest seven-year-old. She was a star when it came to singing.

No wonder she was crowned Little Miss Maine.

Now at the age of seventeen, Dara isn't so little anymore.

When her classmates find out about her past, they're amazed.

This becomes only one of her problems.

Her mother is a control-freak and won't get off her back about things.

But the worst thing is their family secret, Dara has an older sister that her parents tried to erase from their lives.
Dara realizes she has a decision to make after a school project sends her to the office and her parents pull her out to save face.

Option A: Keep following the rules and being misunderstood.

Option B: Reach out to the sister her parents tried so hard to keep a secret.

Dara chooses option B.

To figure out who she really is, Dara just might have to let go of everything she took for granted.

Rating: 3 Stars

Review: Secrets of Truth and Beauty was a very slow book at the beginning. It took me awhile to get into it. Before I started it I had really good expectation for it, but I think they might have been too high. By the end of the book, the plot really started to pick up. But I feel almost like everything was jammed into the end and middle of the book. The beginning had almost nothing in it that grabbed on to you and made you want to finish the book. Also, I felt like not a lot of the characters were very likable. Dara wasn't even my favorite character but she was a good character. I loved everything she learned and by the end of the book, I was proud for everything she accomplished. I don't know if I'll read this book again, but I'm still glad I read it.

-Lexi(:

I'm Still Here...

2009-08-09T15:08:00.001-05:00

I'm still here guys!

I haven't gone anywhere.

I've just been really busy and kind of in a reviewing funk.

I have about 6 or so reviews that I really need to write but haven't gotten too.

But, expect them this week.

I'm sorry guys! Hope you didn't forget about me.

-Lexi(:

In My Mailbox (7/27 to 8/1)

2009-08-02T10:00:00.003-05:00

In My Mailbox was started by The Story Siren and Alea from Pop Culture Junkie. If you want more details, click here. In My Mailbox exlores all the books that I get in a week, whether it's in the mail, borrowed from a friend, borrowed from the library, or bought from a bookstore.

Recived:

Jumping Off Swings by Jo Knowles (ARC/ August 2009/ Candelwick)

Ellie remembers how the boys kissed her. Touched her. How they begged for more. And when she gave it to them, she felt loved. For a while anyway. So when Josh, an eager virgin with a troubled home life, leads her from a party to the backseat of his van, Ellie follows. But their "one-time thing" is far from perfect: Ellie gets pregnant. Josh reacts with shame and heartbreak, while their confidantes, Caleb and Corinne, deal with their own complex swirl of emotions. No matter what Ellie chooses, all four teenagers will be forced to grow up a little faster as a result. Told alternately from each character’s point of view, this deeply insightful novel explores the aftershocks of the biggest decision of one fragile girl’s life — and the realities of leaving innocence behind.

I'm so excited to read this! I've wanted to read this since I first heard about it and now I have my own copy of it(:

After by Amy Efaw (ARC/ August 2009/ Viking Juvenile)

An infant left in the trash to die. A teenage mother who never knew she was pregnant . . .

Before That Morning, these were the words most often used to describe straight-A student and star soccer player Devon Davenport: responsible, hardworking, mature. But all that changes when the police find Devon home sick from school as they investigate the case of an abandoned baby. Soon the connection is made—Devon has just given birth; the baby in the trash is hers. After That Morning, there’s only one way to define Devon: attempted murderer.

And yet gifted author Amy Efaw does the impossible— she turns Devon into an empathetic character, a girl who was in such deep denial that she refused to believe she was pregnant. Through airtight writing and fast-paced, gripping storytelling, Ms. Efaw takes the reader on Devon’s unforgettable journey toward clarity, acceptance, and redemption.

I think this book sounds amazing! I'm really excited to read it.

And Then Everything Unraveled by Jennifer Sturman (Already Published/ July 2009/ Point)

Delia Truesdale has no idea her life's about to change forever. She's too busy enjoying the California summer. Her internet tycoon mother, T.K. Truesdale, is out of town, and that means Delia can spend all her time at the beach, surfing. That is, until everything unravels.

Her mother suddenly goes missing, and everyone thinks she's dead - excpet Delia, who knows T.K.'s way too organized to simply disappear. But Delia's still sent to New York to live with her two aunts - a downtown bohemian and an uptown ice queen.

And in case that's not bad enough, she also has to deal with a snooty new school and trying not to fall for the wrong guy. Oh, and finding her mother.

As she delves deeper into the tangle of conspiracies and lies surrounding T.K.'s disappearance, Delia begins to suspect that the wrong guy may be the right guy...and that some secrets - especially the dangerous ones - were never meant to be unraveled.

At first, I didn't really want to read this book, but now I'm kind of excited.

Airhead by Meg Cabot (Already Published/ April 2009/ Point)

Em is considerably more interested in playing computer games with her friend Christopher than in befriending the A-list girls who rule her high school. A freak accident mortally injures Em and leaves superstar model Nikki brain dead. After a transplant operation, Em wakes up in Nikki’s body and learns that she must keep her identity a secret and live her life as Nikki. Readers who are willing to swallow the brain transplant idea will find that the rest of the story goes down easily enough; there’s plenty to entertain readers with stars in their eyes as well as those who disdain the pop-culture glamour of Nikki’s life. Besides the juxtaposition of Em’s world with Nikki’s, there are elements of humor and glimmers of compassion for the rich and famous in this first-person story. Toward the novel’s end, “Nikki” enrolls in Em’s old school. Can the girl inside that too-perfect body reconnect with the boy she secretly loves? Stay tuned.

I've never read anything by Meg Cabot before, but I heard she's amazing so I can't wait to find out for myself(:

Being Nikki by Meg Cabot (Already Published/ May 2009/ Point)

Things aren't pretty for Emerson Watts.

Em was sure there couldn't be anything worse than being a brainiac the body of a teenaged supermodel.

But it turned out she was wrong. Because that supermodel could turn out to have a mother who's gone mysteriously missing, a brother who's shown up on her doorstep demanding answers, a former best friend who's intent on destroying Stark Enterprises to avenge the death of his lost love, and a British heartthrob who's written a song about her that's topping the charts.

How can Em balance all that with school, runway shows, and weekend jaunts to St. Johns - especially when she's got ex-boyfriends crawling out of the woodwork who want more than just a photo op; a sister who is headed to the high school cheerleading championships; a company she represents that seems to be turning to the dark side...

Not to mention trying to convince the love of her life that models aren't really airheads after all...especially one model in particular.

But then, nobody said it was going to be easy being Nikki.

The sequal to Airhead, yay(:

Borrowed:

Giving Up the V by Serena Robar (Already Published/ June 2009/ Simon Pulse)

What's So Wrong With Waiting

Spencer Davis just turned sixteen. But unlike most hormonal teenagers who seem obsessed with sex -- like her entire crew of friends -- Spencer just doesn't get it. She'd rather wait for the right guy and the right moment. But that moment may be arriving sooner than she'd thought.

Enter Benjamin Hopkins, a new transfer student who seems to have his eyes on our V-card-carrying heroine. He's gorgeous, funny, suave, athletic, and capable of making Spencer's knees wobble with a single glance. Spencer has never felt this way about anyone before, but is Ben truly V-worthy?

I've been wanting to read this forever! And now, thanks to Ashley, I finally can!

Bad Girls Club by Judy Gregerson (Already Published/ July 2007/ Blooming Tree Press)

Destiny has a secret. She's been told not to tell anyone what happened to her, her mom, and her little sister at Crater Lake. She also can't tell anyone that sometimes her sister is covered in bruises. Her friends all want her to report her parents, but Destiny won't tell the school counselor. If she does, it could cost her little sister's life or possibly her own. When the secret becomes too much to carry and the truth she knows becomes a lie, Destiny has to make a decision. Will she find the strength to speak the truth or will she drown in the lies? Will she discover her own worth and the voice she needs to cry it out, or will she remain what her mother has always called her -- a bad girl?

Another borrow from Ashley(:

Annie's Baby (Already Published/ December 2004/ HarperCollins)

Sparks (It Happened to Nancy) shares another slice of a troubled teen's life, this time focusing readers' attention on the topic of teen sex and pregnancy. The first, most excruciating entries in 14-year-old Annie's diary trace her victimization and impregnation by a manipulative and sadistic boyfriend. Completely obsessed with 16-year-old Danny ("He called me an 'Earth Angel.' And I think I'm going to commit myself completely to being just that for him, no matter what!"), Annie is less prepared than readers for the devastating fall she takes the day her home pregnancy test comes out pink. The remaining, more solution-oriented segments of the book convey Annie's arduous climb from rock-bottom ("I CANNOT BEAR TO FACE IT! I WILL NOT!") to a state in which she can confront her mistakes and plan for herself and her child. With the support of her exceptionally tolerant mother, patient teachers and a nonjudgmental therapist (supposedly Sparks), Annie changes from a self-deprecating romantic ("Could plain me possibly be good enough for awesome him?") to a more level-headed realist, who learns, painfully, to put her baby's needs before her own. The book carries a strong anti-abortion sentiment and has an aura of soap opera as well. However, it provides a plethora of objective and valuable information about sex, pregnancy and birth control, and even includes a "What Is Love?" quiz to help girls assess their relationships. An appendix lists relevant statistics, crisis and information hotline numbers, and other useful resources.

The third book borrowed from Ashley for this week(:

I got amazing books this week! I'm so excited to start reading them.

What did you get?

-Lexi(:

Alternative Covers 10

2009-07-30T10:00:00.000-05:00

The book I choose for this weeks post is Just Listen by Sarah Dessen.

So here's the paperback cover:

I think this one fits the title and the story so well.

Here's the UK cover:

I'm not really fond of any of the UK covers for Sarah's books, including this one.

My favorite cover is Just Listen. I think it's amazing and plus, Just Listen is my favorite book by Sarah Dessen.

But I wanna know what cover you like, so please comment and tell me!

Also, what's your favorite book by Sarah Dessen?

-Lexi(:

Exposed by Susan Vaught

2009-07-28T10:00:00.000-05:00

Summary: Straight A's. A shot as the regional majorette championships in baton twirling. The best best friend a girl could as for.

Those are just some of the things that are going right for Chan Shealy.

They get even better what Chan goes to look for the perfect boyfriend online.

At least they seem too...

Chan thought she was being safe, safer then safe.

But soon her home life collides with her fantasy life.

Her fantasy life becomes realer then she ever wanted.

When reality hits, Chan must make some impossible decisions.

She has to save her family that means the world to her and the future she wants for herself.

Rating: 4 1/2 Stars

Review: Exposed was a really good book. I really wanted to give it 5 Stars but something just stopped me. I think I had the feelings that this had been done before. It was different, but some of it seemed a little predictable. Chan was definitely a complex character, she pulled me into the story. It was a relationship gone wrong that I'm sure many people can relate you. Chan grew up and learned a lesson only to be thrown another on. The family dynamic in this book was unique. The obsessive sister, the over-weight dad, the mother with strong political tastes. It was all different and intertwined which is why I think I gave this book 4 1/2 Stars. No matter the rating, I'm really glad I got a chance to read this book. It teaches you think so you don't really have to experience them first hand.

-Lexi(:

Nothing Like You by Lauren Strasnick

2009-07-27T10:00:00.000-05:00

Pub Date: October 20, 2009

Summary: Holly loses her virginity to Paul, a guy she hardly knows.

She thinks it's just going to be a one night stand.

Paul is too popular to be interested in her.

Plus he has a steady girlfriend, Saskia.

When Paul keeps pursuing her, Holly finally lets him in.

Holly hasn't felt alive since her mom died six months ago.

Paul's kisses take Holly's mind off of everything in her life.

Holly loves feeling like the kind of girl Paul would chose, but things aren't that easy with Saskia around.

She's nothing like Holly, she's perfect.

But, when they start to become friends, Holly realizes that she's going to lose more then she ever even had.

Rating: 5 Stars

Review: I was so excited when I got the ARC for Nothing Like You in the mail. I couldn't wait to start reading it. I loved the plot, I though Holly sounded like an interesting character. One that I could really relate to, which is always important. When I started to read this, I realized that Holly was going to be my favorite character. The differences between the way Holly and Paul acted at school and when they were alone, were major. From the outside you could tell that Paul was really only after one thing, and that Holly was always hoping it would be more. But, you were also inside Holly's mind and you started to think what she was thinking. At one point it became hard not to like Paul at certain moments, but then you realize how low he would actually go. The ending to this novel by Lauren Strasnick was not completely what I expected but it fit. You knew the ending was going to be hard, but a good change for Holly. Nothing Like You really is a great novel with complex characters and a new, interesting plot. You get pulled in from the beginning.

-Lexi(:

In My Mailbox (7/20 to 7/25)

2009-07-26T10:00:00.002-05:00

In My Mailbox was started by The Story Siren. If you want more details, click here.

This week was definitly a lot better for books(:

Recived:

Exposed by Susan Vaught (Already Published/ Nov 2008/ Bloomsbury)

Following a disastrous affair with her former boyfriend that has left her with an STD and a reputation as shredded as an election-year campaign promise, Chan wishes for a perfect guy to talk to online—you know, all the fun but none of the problems of a real-life boyfriend. Well, be careful what you wish for . . . In short order Chan has begun a parent-defying and increasingly steamy online relationship with a “perfect” guy named Paul. In the meantime her morbidly obese father, who is recovering from a heart attack, continues to gobble those jumbo pizzas, her mother is increasingly shrill and controlling, and her younger sister is consumed by her desire to become an actress. And, oh, yes, Chan is a majorette and the regional twirling competition is upon us. Clearly, psychological complexity and thematic unity are in short supply in Vaught’s cautionary tale cum problem novel. But the perils of Chan make for compulsive, page-turning reading and the message about online predators—though heavy-handed—is inarguably an important one.

I'm so excited to read this! I love the plot, I think it's gonna be really good. Plus it's signed(:

Fade to Blue by Sean Beaudoin (ARC/ August 2009/ Little, Brown Young Readers)

Sophie Blue started wearing a black skirt and Midnight Noir lipstick on her last birthday. It was also the day her father disappeared. Or spontaneously combusted. Which is sort of bad timing, since a Popsicle truck with tinted windows has started circling the house.

Kenny Fade is a basketball god. His sneakers cost more than his Jeep. He's the guy all the ladies (and their mommas) want. Bad.

Sophie Blue and Kenny Fade don't have a thing in common. Aside from being reasonably sure they're losing their minds.

Acclaimed author Sean Beaudoin's wildly innovative novel combines uproarious humor with enough plot twists to fill a tube sock. Part thriller, part darkly comic philosophical discussion, and accompanied by a comic book interstitial, Fade to Blue is a whip-smart romp that keeps readers guessing until the last paragraph.

I'm kinda excited, kinda not excited to start this book. It sounds interesting but I'm not sure if I'm really going to like it.

My Big Nose and Other Natural Disasters by Sydney Salter (Already Published/ April 2009/ Graphia)

The summer before senior year is Jory’s last chance to transform herself and leave behind her mediocre grades, unrequited crushes, and especially her ugly nose. Intent on earning money for a nose job, she finds a job delivering wedding cakes near her home in Reno, Nevada, even though she can barely handle a stick shift, never mind parallel parking. In her wry, spirited voice, Jory reveals her jealousy of her girlfriends, mistakes at work, conflict with her appearance-obsessed mom, muddles with various boys (including one who turns out to be gay), and, always, her anguish over her proboscis. Obsession is boring and repetitive, and this first novel is too long in descriptions of Jory’s mess-ups and the message-heavy resolutions, as she learns to see the best in herself and finds the perfect boyfriend. But the contemporary dialogue is rapid and funny, and teens will enjoy Jory’s comic self-deprecation and the way she gets the signals wrong, both while driving and on dates.

This happens to be another book that I'm really excited to read. It sounds really good and it's also signed! (:

The Comeback by Marlene Perez (ARC/ August 2009/ Point)

Sophie Donnelly is one half of the most popular and powerful couple in school, until new girl Angie Vogel shows up and compromises everything. Angie steals Sophie's starring role in the school play, and, worse, her super-popular boyfriend. Sophie has been quickly dispatched to social Siberia, but not for long--she'll do anything it takes to make a triumphant comeback.

The Comeback sounds like an interesting book. I can't wait to start to read it and see it I really do like it, because I hope I do!

Won:

Suite Scarlett by Maureen Johnson (Already Published/ May 2009/ Point)

Johnson certainly seems to have the formula for good, clean, readable chick-lit down pat, and this title does not disappoint. According to tradition, when the Martin children turn 15, they inherit a suite in the family's small Manhattan hotel and a job: to take care of the rooms and their occupant. On Scarlett's 15th birthday, Amy Amberson sweeps into the suite that Scarlett has just inherited. The woman is demanding and brash, but she does have her charms (and large amounts of cash). In the beginning, Scarlett is overwhelmed, but then her role becomes that of Mrs. Amberson's assistant for her projects, which change on a whim. When Amy decides to help the theater troupe that Scarlett's brother is involved in put on Hamlet, the teen begins a romance with one of the actors. Then everything starts to go awry, and when things get tough, Amy abandons ship, and plucky Scarlett is left to step in and save what needs saving, something that she does with flair. Scarlett's brand of humor is particularly dry and well articulated. This novel blends sibling rivalry and the importance of family, friendship, and romance into a plot that is charming and well delivered.

This is the first time I've won a contest for a book so I'm excited(:

Bought:

I didn't buy any books this week, no need(:

Borrowed:

I didn't need to borrow any either(:

All summaries were taken from Amazon.com.

-Lexi(:

If I Stay by Gayle Forman

2009-07-25T10:00:00.000-05:00

Summary: Choices.

Everyone faces them, but seventeen-year-old Mia has faced some tough ones.

Choosing her first love, music, over her boyfriend.

Leaving her friends and family behind to purse a dream.

Mia learns that in an instant, everything can change.

One car ride changed everything for her.

Mia lost everything.

Now only one choice really remains.

It's the only one that matters to her, to everyone.

Rating: 4 Stars

Reveiw: If I Stay has been sitting on my desk for a month calling me name, and I managed to read it in one night. I fell in love with it right away. I love the way that Gayle writes and how she went from past to present and back again. It showed how Mia's life was before the accident and how much her and her boyfriend really do love each other. The characters were all so lovable, they all cared and wanted to best for Mia whatever it may be. The ending of If I Stay was really unpridictable. The way Gayle wrote it, you thought the opposite was going to happen. It almost had to sitting on the edge of your seat! I loved it. I'm so glad I finally read this book, but I wish I would have sooner.

-Lexi