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Monday, November 30, 2009

PRIVATE DEMON by Lynn Viehl


PRIVATE DEMON
A Novel of the Darkyn #2
Author: Lynn Viehl
  • Mass Market Paperback: 304 pages
  • Publisher: Signet (October 4, 2005)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0451217055
  • ISBN-13: 978-0451217059
SYNOPSIS:

Night after night, Jema Shaw's dreams have become a haven for Thierry Durand. But his nocturnal visits have placed her in danger and brought her between two ancient enemies: the Brethren and the Darkyn.

MY THOUGHTS:

Frustrated. That is the only word that comes to mind when reading this book. This was suppose to be a book centered around Darkyn Thierry. I would give an estimate of about maybe 1/3 of it being about Thierry. The rest was about the priests (again), the Keller's (again), and hardly any romance at all. I am starting to get the feeling that there is not going to be much romance in this series, and more of a dark series instead. The author seemed like she was trying to include many stories into one book. I don't understand why she couldn't just pick one or two plots and just stick with that. I felt like I was reading too many novels instead of just one.

On the other hand, I am still enjoying Alex in this book. I am loving her witty mouth and her Kiss-My-Ass attitude towards people that get on her bad side. I love it when author's can capture the witty humor in storyline's that you least expect it. So I will continue with the series, even if it is just to hear what comes out of Alex's mouth next.

MY RATING:



A Decent Read.
Has Some Drawbacks Though.


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ENTWINED BY FATE by S. A. Price


ENTWINED BY FATE
Author: S. A. Price

ISBN: 978-1-607667-077-3

Genre: Erotic/Paranormal Romance

Release Date: January 19th 2010

* This was an ARC (uncorrected proof) submitted to me from the author. I received it free in exchange for an honest review*

SYNOPSIS:

Thirty females of the Ophidian race have gone missing, most from the transient nest of Las Vegas, a rogue and unofficial nest run by the Saint, John Merrick. Believed to be dead by every Archon in the states, Merrick leads a quiet and unassuming life, saving those of his race that are lost and need it most. It's a solitary existence, one that he hates every day. He yearns for his mate, the woman he left over a decade before, and the woman who thinks him dead to this day.

When Elise Rizdon gets the official invitation to the Archon meeting in Ohio by the leader of a new Midwestern nest, she never expected to see the love of her life at the woman's side, a man she was told was dead and buried. She lost him once upon a time, and she never fully recovered. Focusing on the issues, and not the man that has always made her body burn is not going to be easy. A disturbing event is on the horizon, one that threatens all Ophidian's and their way of life. In order to survive they will have to work together, give up old grudges and take chances on the things that matter most. Love, life and the continuation of their race.

MY THOUGHTS:

When the author contacted me to review this book, I thought I would give it a go. I was getting tired of the same old vampire, werewolf, fallen angel paranromal books. They seemed to all be the same. I was surprised to see a new paranormal aspect dealing with snakes! WOW! This book had it all! Suspense, love, action, and yes paranormal snakes! I loved how we could see the story from different character points of view as well. So many times we are left with wondering what the other was thinking and going through. The author did a fantastic job of introducing us to a new paranormal subject that will leave you with a hunger to bite into her next story! The author has shedded the old skin of old paranormal and come out with a majestic world of a new realm of possiblilities!

MY RATING:


Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading!


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Sunday, November 29, 2009

SPREAD THE LOVE SUNDAY!





It's Sunday and it's time for another edition of Spread the Love Sunday! Every Sunday I interview a fellow book blogger who I have found along the way of my endless book blog searching! Today's guest is one of my early followers who has been a great inspiration to me!

NAME: Michelle
BLOG: red headed book child

1. Tell us a little about your blog.

My blog is best described as a General
Reviewer Blog, meaning that I don't stick to one genre at ALL. I like to read just about anything so that is reflected. It also has a bit about my family, cute pics of my kiddo, not so cute pics of me, my snarky yet fabulous writing style/humor (wink) and my overall obsession with books and therefore, fabulous taste in.

2. Why did you start your blog and what is your favorite thing about having a blog?

Well, I knew nothing of the blogosphere when I started but friends told me I needed an outlet after being laid off or else I was going to start talking to corners, if you know what I mean! My passion for books had to go somewhere new. I had been working in books for ten years and it was very sudden and life changing to have that end. Aside from the blog, I really discovered that I didn't need that career to continue connecting with people in the book world. Turns out I already had a following of people who respected my opinion when it came to books. That helped boost my confidence when starting this blog and it went on from there!

3. If you could be any character from any book, who would you be and why?

It will change, of course, because i am such a crush crazy (yes, married) girl. I would love to be Claire from The Time Traveler's Wife only because the love she had with Henry was so special. Or I would be Alyss from The Looking Glass Wars because I have all sorts of fancy visions of her and Dodge (hunky protector) running away all romantic like!

4. Who is your favorite author(s)?

This also changes. Right now it is Frank Beddor (The Looking Glass Wars). Ongoing I always love Meg Rosoff, Laurie Notaro, Kate Morton, Jodi Picoult, Sarah Waters, Dennis Lehane, John Connolly, and Beth Gutcheon.

5. What is your favorite genre to read?

M
eaty novels I call them or Literary novels. Mysteries, Young Adult, Humor and Memoirs round out my favs.

6. What book are you reading right now?

One? I am currently reading These Old Shades by Georgette Heyer and Mistletoe Murder by Leslie Meier.

7. Name some of your favorite blogs.

You, of course!
Jenny at TakeMeAway,

Ryan at Wordsmithonia,
Mel at He Followed me home,
Lisa at Lit and Life,
Michelle at The True Book Addict,
Melissa at My World,
Amo at When a woman shakes her tablecloth,
Julie at My 5 Monkeys,
Karen at Novels during Naptime
and Christine at Happily Ever After...
to name a few. Um, I guess I like quite a bit. There are more....so many more...!

8. Any tips for new bloggers?

What's helped me best is to remind myself why I am doing this, which is to have fun, read lots and meet a great book loving community. It's important to me to not feel obligated to have my blog be a certain way or do so much that it's not fun anymore. it's easy to get swept away in all of the stuff to do! Be honest, be sincere and respect your fellow bloggers. Oh and discover Book Blogs.ning. That helps!

Be sure to check back next week for a new edition of Spread The Love and be sure to check out Michelle's blog! You won't be disappointed!

*If you would like to be featured, just send me an email*

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Saturday, November 28, 2009

WICKED NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS by Tierney 'O Malley


WICKED NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS
Author: Tierney 'O Malley
Available: December 1rst, 2009 from eXtacy Books

SYNOPSIS:

Her Christmas wish came true-unwrapped,undeniably sexy, gorgeous, and totally wicked.

He tried to make her his…
Lucas McLeod fell in love with his sister‟s best friend who enjoys bantering with him. He is fighting the urge, the temptation to cross the fine line between friendship and lovers. But Lucas lost. When he succumbs to passion and makes love with her, he knows she is the one he wants to grow old with. Before he leaves for Florida, he gives her his promise. He will be back.
She tried to ignore him…

Cara Saint Regis is devastated when Lucas, her best friend‟s brother and the man she believes will come back for her, arrives in the cabin with his high school sweetheart instead. Worse, she catches them French kissing. A few days before Christmas, Cara‟s heartache turns into a blinding jealousy and anger—but deep inside her heart, her love and desire remains strong and true.
Will love, passion, and the spirit of holidays help them reunite in time to celebrate Christmas?
Being around Cara is a test. Her nearness inflames his desire. Their closeness reminds him of what he‟s been missing—her touch, smile, and her kisses. He misses her. Lucas wonders if his burning need to be with her again can wait until Christmas eve to answer the wish she wrote on the paper and hung on the Christmas tree—a wicked night before Christmas.

MY TAKE:

This is my second book by this author for review and let me just say that she is one of the best writers! Her books are so wonderful and beautifully written that I forget sometimes that I am suppose to be reading an erotica! This short story was filled with love, intrigue and witty humor that kept the pace of the book flowing perfectly. A quick Christmas read that left me wanting more from this author in my stocking this holiday season!

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading!


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Just a heads up.......

Just a heads up, if you do any stamping or scrapbooking I am selling off my entire craft room on ebay right now. If you use buy it now on any of the auctions, just let me know you saw it on my blog and I will give you 5.00 off the shipping price!!

BUY IT HERE!!

More will be listed over the weekend!

GUARDING TEMPTATION by Chastity Bush


GUARDING TEMPTATION
Author: Chastity Bush
  • Paperback: 198 pages
  • Publisher: PublishAmerica (October 13, 2009)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1448994098
  • ISBN-13: 978-1448994090
SYNOPSIS:
Tera Stone is not your typical vampire. Born without any vampire power and newly single, Tera finds herself starting her life anew again. Able to walk in the sun and eat normal food, it seems Tera and her family have hidden her defects as a vampire well, but what they do not know is that the murderer that has been terrorizing the immortal community for months has his sights set on her. Zack Kingston is a Guardian. It is the job of the Guardians to protect all living beings mortal and immortal alike. In his five hundred years of living he has seen it all -or so he thought. When Zack is sent to Manhattan in search of a murderer who has been draining born vampires for weeks he never imagined the mysterious woman he would rescue would be his mate. Unable to trust Zack's motives and now her own, will Tera follow her heart and accept the love Zack has to offer? And can Zack win Tera's heart before the murderer finds her?

MY TAKE:
Man oh man. This was one of those reads where you can't understand why a big publishing company has not picked the author up! I was hooked from the first page! The action started on page one and kept me interested all the way until the end. Both the characters and the story were amazing. The author knows how to write and make a book flow effortlessly. You find yourself intrigued by each character in the book and not being able to put the book down until you find out what happens! Full of excitement, love and suspense! A new author who has captured my attention and left me hungry for more!

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading!



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BOX OF BOOKS CONTEST WINNER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Yep. It's time. I had so many people enter and I just want to thank everyone who signed up to follow, left comments and entered the contest! Now I have to announce a winner!

I used Random.org and had it do the honors of picking! The winner is:


ninefly

CONGRATS! You have 48 hours to respond or I will have to pick a new winner.

Again, thank you to all who entered! Now that this contest has ended, I will be doing giveaways differently. You will have to be on the look out. I might just review a book and offer it as a contest in the same post. LOL...hunt..hint..


Friday, November 27, 2009

IF ANGELS BURN by Lynn Viehl


IF ANGELS BURN: A Novel of the Darkyn-Book One
Author: Lynn Viehl
  • Mass Market Paperback: 304 pages
  • Publisher: Signet; Reissue edition (April 5, 2005)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0451214773
  • ISBN-13: 978-0451214775
SYNOPSIS:
Alexandra Keller is Chicago's most brilliant reconstructive surgeon. Michael Cyprien is New Orleans' most reclusive millionaire-and in desperate need of Dr. Keller's skills. In the heart of the Garden District, Alex encounters the extraordinary Cyprien, uncovering a love Alex is willing to embrace, even if she must sacrifice her heart and soul to do so.

MY TAKE:
This book was a slow read for me. It took me awhile to catch on to all the characters and to start actually caring about them. I loved the story when it was focused on the Darkyn's, but when it came to all the priests and such, I was easy to get confused with all their talk and people.

There wasn't alot of romance in this book. What romance there was, I couldn't really care about it. This was more of a dark read than a regular vampire read. The author uses alot of words that had me scratching my head. French I believe. At time she would explain what was being said and at other times she didn't.

This was the first in the series, and I am willing to try the next one. Hopefully I will have a better understanding now and will be able to figure it out faster. I loved the character of Phillipe the best and can't wait to see his story if he has one. The heroines personality is what I liked the most about this book. Witty and smart mouth is what I like when dealing with a strong heroine.

MY RATING:



A Good Book and Read! Perfect For Rainy Days
From the Library!


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Thursday, November 26, 2009

HAPPY THANKSGIVING!



Wednesday, November 25, 2009

THE EDUCATION OF BET by Lauren Baratz-Logsted


THE EDUCATION OF BET (ARC)
Author: Lauren Baratz-Logsted
Source: NETGALLEY
**I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review
  • Reading level: Young Adult
  • Hardcover: 192 pages
  • Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Books for Children (July 12, 2010)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0547223080
  • ISBN-13: 978-0547223087
SYNOPSIS:
Bet is sixteen, very intelligent, but only knows as much as her limited education will allow. In Victorian England, girls aren't allowed to go to school.
Will is also 16, and though not related by blood, he and Bet act like brother and sister. In fact, they even look like brother and sister. And though they're both raised under the same roof, by the same kind uncle, Will has one big advantage over Bet: He's a boy, and being a boy means he isn't stuck in the grand house they call home. He gets to go out into the world--to school.
But that's not what Will wishes. He wants to join the military and learn about real life, not what's written in books.
So one night, Bet comes up with a plan. She'll go to school as Will. Will can join the military. And though it seems impossible, they actually manage to pull it off.
But once Bet gets to the school, she begins to realize the education she's going to get isn't exactly the one she was expecting.

MY TAKE:
When I received this book awhile back with another ARC from the same author, I couldn't believe they wanted me to review it already! I was so excited to read this book!

This is a story that is set in the 1800's. Bet, short for Elizabeth, is taken in by a man that is related to the Master of the house that her mother, the maid, works for. They have a son named William, and the two grow up to be best of friends and like brother and sister. William is constantly getting in trouble and gets thrown out of school 4 times. Bet, who dreams of going to school, can't go to school because at this time girls are not allowed to. William would rather chase his dream of joining Her Majesty's military.

Bet comes up with a plan to where both of them can chase their dreams. She decides to dress as Will and go to school for him while he goes off to the military. We get to see the challenges Bet faces when entering a school and getting chuckles the whole time. She slowly falls in love with her room mate James. She has to hide her feelings from him though and continues with the charade.

This book left me laughing and rooting for Bet the whole time. Many surprises and wonderfully included twists to capture your interest from page one all the way to the end. Another wonderfully written book by a great author who never ceases to amaze me with her writing skills and easy flowing story. A great historical book for the young adult genre!

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading!


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Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Contest Alert!!!

Jessica over at Book Bound made it to 100 followers!
Lets give her a loud CONGRATS!

In honor of that, she is hosting a 100 followers contest. She has some awesome loot up for grabs and you really need to go check it out!
The more followers she gets, the more winners she has!

POSSESSION by Devyn Quinn


POSSESSION
Author: Devyn Quinn
Source: Library
  • Paperback: 302 pages
  • Publisher: Aphrodisia (September 1, 2009)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 075822852X
  • ISBN-13: 978-0758228529
SYNOPSIS:
Opening a rare book on demons in an occult collection, Kendra Carter trembles before the power she is about to unleash. A man like no other has been awakened - but is he more than human? From his first caress, Remi gives her incredible pleasure she's never felt before...Night after night, in his secret chamber, Kendra explores her most intimate and hottest sexual fantasies. His passion for her is a supernatural force. He controls her body. He steals her soul. He is her demon lover.

MY TAKE:
After I looked and read at the back cover, I knew I was in for a treat! I grabbed my glass of water to cool down with for when I got to the *cough* SEX scenes. I was so wrapped up in this book that after it was over I had to check out the authors website for more of her work!

If you like your books with sex, love, sex, demons, sex, intrigue, sex, suspense, and sex, then this is the book for you! From the beginning, I couldn't stand Kendra's brother, Gerald. He was crude, shallow and out for himself. All through the book though, I couldn't figure it out. Was Kendra out-of-her-mind-crazy? Was someone setting her up? Was she really an alcoholic? And was that demon really as the author described?! Then when the pieces started coming together, I thought Kendra was going to explode! AT her brother, not sexually. Of course there are plenty of sexual explosions as well, so be warned!

The author gives a whole new meaning to possession with the demon in this book! Watch out Marlena Evans from Days of Our Lives! This is one POSSESSION I wouldn't mind having!

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading!



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Blog award: Thank you Tanis!


Okay, so I am trying to catch up on some blog awards I have received. I apologize for the lateness in recognizing them all, but time is of the essence when you want to read! LOL...So I am slowly getting around to posting them. PLEASE, don't think I don't appreciate them! I DO! I just have not had time to pass them on until now. I will slowly get them all posted this week!

OVER THE TOP award! Thank you Tanis for this lovely award! I met Tanis back when I posted on my craft blog, My Creative Clutter. I lost Mojo on that blog and it has slowly transitioned to a blog where I sell off my craft supplies. She is an awesome blogger and be sure to go check out her amazing blog and support her in getting her creative mojo back!

Here are the rules:
Answer the following questions using single word answers. Then pass the award to 5 other people and let them know.

Your cell phone? pink
Your hair? messy
Your mother? amazing
Your father? procrastinator
Your favorite food? pizza
Your dream last night? unsure
Your favorite drink? COKE
Your dream/goal? author
What room are you in? bedroom
Your hobby? reading
Your fear? loss
Where do you want to be in 6 years? debtfree
Where were you last night? home
Something that you aren't? rich
Muffins? blueberry
Wish list item? BOOKS
Where did you grow up? California
Last thing you did? blogged
What are you wearing? pj's
Your TV? old
Your Pets? annoying!
Friends? wonderful
Your life? blessed
Your mood? happy
Missing someone? Grandparents
Vehicle? Hyundi
Something you're not wearing? socks
Your favorite store? Borders
Your favorite color? purple
When was the last time you laughed? morning
Last time you cried? unsure
Your best friend? generous
One place that you go to over and over? computer :D
Facebook? never
Favorite place to eat? Subway

5 bloggers to pass it to:

Judith @ J. Kaye
Michelle @ Redheaded Book Child
Blanche @ Theres no such thing as too many books
Caitlin @ All things Print
Michelle @ Michelles book blog





THE SWEETHEARTS' KNITTING CLUB by Lori Wilde


THE SWEETHEARTS' KNITTING CLUB
Author: Lori Wilde
Source: Publisher (thanks Christine)
*I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review*
  • Mass Market Paperback: 400 pages
  • Publisher: Avon (November 24, 2009)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 006180889X
  • ISBN-13: 978-0061808890
SYNOPSIS:

"Throw a penny in the fountain of the Twilight town square, and you'll be married to your first love . . . "

For ten years, pretty Flynn MacGregor has been turning down the same solid, upright man's marriage proposal. Her friends at the Sweethearts' Knitting Club tell her they're a match made in heaven, but Flynn knows there's only one dangerous reason why she keeps saying no: high school sweetheart Jesse Calloway. She was just sixteen when Jesse was forced out of town under a cloud of suspicion . . . but he's never left her heart.

Now Jesse is back, and every time she turns the corner he's there—gazing at her with his smoldering eyes and tempting her with his kisses. Jesse has never played by the rules, and he's made it clear that he's not going to now. And Flynn, who's always done just what her family, friends, and fellow knitters have told her to do, must finally break free and claim the love that binds Jesse to her heart.

MY TAKE:

BREATHTAKING! The perfect word to a perfect book!

At first I thought this was going to be about a bunch of old ladies sitting in a circle knitting. True, there are old ladies and knitting involved but that is just a piece of the story. Flynn is not old and she doesn't know how to knit. Beau is her fiance, and he does not knit either. Jesse is an ex-con and Flynn's true love and trust me, knitting is not how he passed the time in prison.

I found myself drawn to the romance between Flynn and Jesse. I thought Beau was a pushy cop who thought he could have whatever he wanted. He is constantly pushing Flynn to marry him and always backing her in a corner. I wanted to jump in the book and knock the crap out of him. Jesse was a pure Southern gentleman who may have been recently released from prison, but wanted to make a fresh start with Flynn. Whenever Jesse's dialogue came up, I could just picture him in my head with his southern accent.

When a writer can describe a character with just what he is speaking, you know you have a new Bestselling Author! The author kept me glued to the pages, consumed by the passion and story that I never wanted it to end. It flowed great and was detailed perfectly.

A new author for me that I will keep an eye on for new releases. Once again, BREATHTAKING!

MY RATING:


Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading!


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Monday, November 23, 2009

Lynsay Sands Challenge Update

I had a slight problem with the linky for the challenge. If you had signed up before, I need you to reenter your info again. Sorry for that!

Thanks
Amy

A CHRISTMAS CAROL:SPECIAL EDITION


A CHRISTMAS CAROL : SPECIAL EDITION
Author: Charles Dickens
Edited by : Stephen Skelton
Source: FSB Media (Thank you)
**I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review**
  • Paperback: 128 pages
  • Publisher: Standard Publishing; Annotated edition (September 1, 2009)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0784723915
  • ISBN-13: 978-0784723913
SYNOPSIS:
Celebrate the season with Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim, Jacob Marley, and the Spirits of Christmas Past, Present, and Future—and discover how the greatest Christmas classic was based on the greastest story ever told. This special edition includes the complete text of A Christmas Carol along with notes and discussion questions written from a Christian perspective.

MY TAKE:
With the Christmas season quickly approaching, I found myself digging through my review pile for a quick Christmas read. A Christmas Carol is a classic and one that puts me in the holiday spirit!
This book is the Charles Dickens favorite with little extras along the way. We get to have the Christian insights to it and find new meanings with each page. It also includes discussion questions for Church Groups and family devotion. Great for your family and your Church to discuss around the holidays. A great revisit to an old tale full of meaning, spirit and love.

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading!



STICKY FINGERS by Niki Burnham


STICKY FINGERS
Author: Niki Burnham
Source: PaperBackSwap
  • Reading level: Young Adult
  • Paperback: 288 pages
  • Publisher: Simon Pulse (August 23, 2005)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0689876491
  • ISBN-13: 978-0689876493
SYNOPSIS:

Busting my ass makes me feel good.

Bulletproof, that's how Jenna Kassarian sees herself. It's all about control: As long as she works hard, nothing can hurt her. So Jenna constantly pushes -- for perfect grades, the ideal boyfriend, the best, best friend.

The only problem is, she doesn't know if she can stop. If she relaxes even for a second, she's afraid she'll lose control completely.

Then Jenna decides it's now or never. She goes to a party and has one drink. But one drink is all it takes for her perfect facade to shatter. Suddenly she realizes straight A's can't protect you in the real world.

MY TAKE:

This was one of those young adult novels that I had read good reviews about. So I ordered it from PaperBackSwap and anxiously awaited my turn. I jumped right into it and now I don't know why.

This book was boring. Nothing happens until the very end, so the majority of this book was pretty dull. Yes, it has a learning experience focused for teens on the date rape drugs that are out there. But seriously, teens could learn about it in school with more enthusiasm than this book will. Lucas was boring and pushy. Jenna is boring. Her friends are boring. This book was boring. Enough said before I bore you.


MY RATING:




I did not enjoy this book.


BREATHLESS by Lurlene McDaniel


BREATHLESS
Author: Lurlene McDaniel
Source: Library
  • Reading level: Young Adult
  • Hardcover: 176 pages
  • Publisher: Delacorte Books for Young Readers; 1 edition (May 12, 2009)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 038573459X
  • ISBN-13: 978-0385734592
SYNOPSIS:
What is the toughest request anyone can be asked to fulfill?

Travis Morrison is a champion diver and one of the most popular kids at school. On the first day of summer vacation, while boating on the lake with his friends, Travis attempts a silly stunt dive that goes wrong. He fears he has broken his leg. Instead, his trip to the hospital reveals he has a rare form of cancer, and to save him, the doctors tell his parents they must amputate. In an instant, Travis’s life and the lives of everyone around him are forever changed. Travis is determined that he and only he should decide the course of his life. He has a plan, but he can’t carry it out alone. Will he convince one of his friends to fulfill his most important request? Lurlene McDaniel tackles a controversial subject, probing the issues of personal choice and quality of life.
MY TAKE:
This book is an emotional book. I had to have Kleenex on hand the whole time I was reading it. Travis breaks his femur when diving off a cliff at the lake. The doctor's inform his parent's that he has bone cancer. We get to see Travis go through all the emotions that come with finding out you have a life threatening disease. He ends up losing his leg from it and realizes he will never be a diver again. Throughout the book you see Travis struggle with Chemo and the loss of a leg. He decides to tell his parents that he wants to sign a DNR. They refuse to let him. So Travis comes up with a plan to end his life on his terms with the help of his best friend. I was so into this book that I finished it within an hour. A short read, but a powerful read. Being a mother, all I could think about was that if this was my child, what would I do? What would I do if it were me?
An emotionally heartbreaking read that will leave a lasting impression with your heart and soul.

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading!



Sunday, November 22, 2009

BOX OF BOOKS Giveaway Update # 6

YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!

I finally made it to 200 followers!!

Thank you everyone for following my little blog. Thank you for spreading the word about the contest as well! Thank you to joannareynolds for being my 200th follower and making this update possible!

At 200 followers I was going to add 2 books to the box. Since I am so excited that I got to see NEW MOON today at the theater, I am going to add three books instead! I am going to add the following:

Stray by Rachel Vincent (USED)

Highland Thirst (NEW)

Playing With Fire by Gena Showalter (USED/ older cover version)

Thank you to all of you! I will be doing some more updating to the contest this week as well. Keep spreading the word!

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SINS OF THE FLESH by Caridad Pineiro Blog Tour


Sins of the Flesh
Author: Caridad Pineiro
Available October 27 2009
ISBN 9780446543835
GRAND CENTRAL PUBLISHING

***Due to a mix up with the mail delivery, I was not able to finish reading this book in time. I will however be posting my review of it later this week. For some reason they delivered my book to my neighbors and they just gave it to me a few days ago. Please check back this week for my take on this book.**

SYNOPSIS:
Caterina Shaw’s days are numbered. Her only chance for survival is a highly experimental gene treatment – a risk she willingly takes. But now Caterina barely recognizes herself. She has new, terrifying powers, an exotic, arresting body — and she’s been accused of a savage murder, sending her on the run.

Mick Carrera is a mercenary and an expert at capturing elusive, clever prey. Yet the woman he’s hunting down is far from the vicious killer he’s been told to expect: Caterina is wounded, vulnerable, and a startling mystery of medical science. Even more, she’s a beautiful woman whose innocent sensuality tempts Mick to show her exactly how thrilling pleasure can be. The heat that builds between them is irresistible, but surrendering to it could kill them both . . . for a dangerous group is plotting its next move using Caterina as its deadly pawn.

EXCERPT:

The day the music died, Caterina Shaw did as well.

Not physically, although she understood the death of her body was inevitable. She had come to terms with that reality some time ago. She had even managed to deal with the blindness caused by the tumor eating away her brain. But then the pain had become so great that it had silenced the music, stealing away the only thing that had made life worth the anguish.

“You understand this treatment is new and uncertain,” Dr. Rudy Wells explained, his voice smooth and comforting. The touch of his hand, warm and reassuring, came against hers as it rested on her thigh.

“I understand,” she said and faced the direction of that calming voice.

Another person abruptly chimed in, his tones as strident and grating as a badly played oboe. “We’ll begin with laser surgery to remove the bulk of the tumor followed by two different courses of gene therapy.”

Two? she wondered and sensed Dr. Wells’ hesitation as well from the tremble that skated across his fingers. He removed his hand from hers and said, “Dr. Edwards believes that we can not only shut down the tumor growing in your brain, but possibly regrow the portion of your optic nerve that the tumor damaged.”

Caterina’s only wish when considering the experimental treatment had been to stop the pain so that she could play her cello once again. So that her last months would be filled with the vitality her music provided.

It was through her music that she lived. That her mother lived, Caterina thought, recalling the passion she had felt as a small child when her mother had played the piano for her; the way her mother’s fingers had coaxed life from the keys much like she now did with a stroke of her bow and the deft touch of her fingers on the strings of her cello.

Or at least like she had up until the cancer had put an end to her music, bringing her life to a close. Except now she was being told something different.

Caterina had never thought about eliminating the tumor. Every prognosis so far had been that she was terminal. Now these new doctors told her not only that might she live, but that she might actually see again too. She didn’t dare believe that she would be able to get her old life back completely, as well as her sight but . . .

“You think I’ll be able to recover? To see again?” Caterina asked, needing to be sure she had understood correctly.

“The risks are great, my dear,” Dr. Wells urged gently.

“But you qualify for the human trials because of the advanced state of your illness, Ms. Shaw,” Dr. Edwards added, annoyance at his partner evident in the staccato beats of his voice.

Her advanced state which could possibly bring death even with this treatment, Caterina thought. Not that she feared her end. What she did fear was letting the pain in her head rob her of the one thing she could not live without.

Her music.

She knew without hesitation that it was worth any risk to regain that part of her. To drive back the illness so she could play her cello once more and reanimate her heart for as long as she had left if the treatments couldn’t stop the tumor.

“What do you need me to do?”

TEASER VIDEO:

Saturday, November 21, 2009

SPREAD THE LOVE Sunday!!!




On Sunday's I will be featuring a new book blogger interview. I have found many new friends in the blogging world and they all have helped me establish and expand my blog. I tried to figure out a way to show them how much I appreciate them for their time and such, so I came up with Spread the Love Sunday! I encourage you to check out the blogs of these wonderful book bloggers!

This week I am featuring Anna from Anna's Book Blog!

Name: Anna
Blog: Anna's Book Blog- http://annavivian.blogspot.com/


1. Tell us a little about your blog.
  • I have been running my book blog for two years now. I started it back in June of 2007. At my
    blog you can find book reviews, contests, author interviews and guest blogs, book news, book promotion and more.
2. Why did you start your blog and what is your favorite thing about having a blog?
  • My blog originally started at MySpace and at the time I was only reviewing once in a while. I started it out of my
    love for books. It wasn't until I moved over to blogger that it became just a book blog and I started reviewing more
    often.
3. If you could be any character from any book, who would you be and why?
  • Sookie Stackhouse. She has a very interesting life. Plus there is Bill
    & Eric. :)
4. Who is your favorite author(s)?

Here are a few:
  • Charlaine Harris, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Nalini Singh, J.R Ward, Kelley Armstrong, Richelle Mead,
    Karen Marie Moning, Kim Harrison, Patricia Briggs, Keri Arthur, Julia Quinn, Lisa Kleypas,
    Maria V. Snyder, Lora Leigh, Jacqueline Carey, Gena Showalter, Maggie Stiefvater, Kristin
    Cashore, Suzanne Collins, Cassandra Clare.
5. What is your favorite genre to read?
  • I read several genre's but my favorites are Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy & Young Adult Fantasy
6. What book are you reading right now?
  • Tempted By: P.C. & Kristin Cast
  • Nefertiti By Michelle Moran
7. Name some of your favorite blogs.

I read quite a few and love them all, here is a few of my favorites...
8. Any tips for new bloggers?
  • When I started out I was just reviewing my own books and books from the library
    new book blogger should review as much as possible. Doing this helps getting
    the attention of authors and publishers. It was 6 months to year before I got my first
    ARC. But most of all be honest.
If you would like to be featured in my Spread the Love Sunday, just send me an email!

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In My Mailbox

IN MY MAILBOX

In My Mailbox was started over at The Story Siren

Here is what I received this week in the mail....

From PaperBackSwap:
Wolf Tales 1
Wolf Tales 2 (not pictured)
Rogue
Stray
The Vampire Is Just Not That Into You

For Review:
The Circle of Friends - Book 5 ARC(publisher) not pictured
Truly, Madly ARC (B&N)
Knight Pleasure (publisher)
Decoding the Lost Symbol (FSB)
The Ghost, the Eggheads, and Babe Ruth's Piano ARC(author)
The Sweethearts Knitting Club - publisher

Bought:
The entire Immortal Series by Alyson Noel (all signed)
Christine Feehan - Dark Possession

What did everyone else get?

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Friday, November 20, 2009

ALYSON NOEL book signing event



OMG! I had so much fun at my first author signing event! I had never been to one before mainly because alot of authors do most of them back east. When I found out that Alyson Noel was coming to our area I about fell over in my chair!!

First of all, let me say that if you haven't read her books, WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU? LOL...She was the sweetest person and so easy to talk to. I had butterflies in my stomach and they went away as soon as she started talking. She was genuinely happy to meet everyone and she actually took the time to TALK to everyone she met. She gave me wonderful advice since I have been wanting to start writing a book and was willing to take a photo with me! If you ever get the chance to meet her in person, jump on that chance! You will not be disappointed!

"Last Chance Rescue" by Tracey Cramer-Kelly (BLOG TOUR)


LAST CHANCE RESCUE
Author: Tracey Cramer-Kelly

TOUR DATES

November 9: Chris Redding
November 10: Razlover's Book Blog
November 10: Long Live Chick-Lit
November 11: Diane Craver
November 12: Tory Richards
November 12: Susquehanna Writer's
November 13: Marianne Arkins
November 16: Book Junkie
November 16: Tamela Quijas
November 17: J. A. Saare
November 17: Mary Eason
November 18: Katie Bug aka Domestic Diva
November 19: Reading At The Beach
November 20: My Overstuffed Bookshelf
November 20: One Person's Journey Through a World of Books

Tracey will be giving away an autographed copy of her book "Last Chance Rescue" to one randomly drawn commenter from the tour and an autographed copy of her book to the tour host with the most comments, excluding duplicates or Tracey’s responses.

SYNOPSIS:

When Brad Sievers runs into his old friend Jessie Van Dyke at his high school reunion, little does he know how much it will change his life. When his high-powered advertising career fizzles, he falls into a most unlikely career opportunity -- becoming a member of Jessie's search-and-rescue team. Nothing in his life has prepared Brad for this, but he finds it more fulfilling than a dozen advertising campaigns.

Through dangerous rescues and personal trials, Brad and Jessie become close friends. They share in the birth of her first colt from her rescued horse; Jessie helps Brad when one of his first rescues doesn't make it. When one of their rescue victims turns out to be a fellow soldier from Jessie's Iraq War days, Brad almost loses her to old demons. But when Brad is severely injured in a training accident, Jessie nurses him back to health as only she can. And when she goes missing one night, Brad realizes just how important she has become to him.

Both Brad and Jessie must fight their own defenses to finally let down the walls that will allow them to rescue each other. This is a story about breath-taking action and adventurous lives, and the heart that is behind it all.


A LITTLE ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

A little about myself…
I live in small-town Minnesota with my husband, Tim, and our two young children (son, 6, and daughter, 2).
My hobbies include music, Taiko drumming and motorcycling (I’ve been a “biker chick” since I was 16; my current motorcycle is a Kawasaki Vulcan 900). I enjoy outdoor activities of all kinds (downhill skiing, cross-country skiing, water skiing, whitewater rafting, kayaking). I obtained my helicopter pilot license in 2001 and it remains my “first flying love,” although I am slowly pursuing my fixing-wing endorsement as well.
I spend a good deal of my time managing the family motorcycle accessories business (www.LeaderMotorcycle.com).
My writing draws extensively from my experience as an Army Reserve paramedic and exposure to helicopter medevac.

A little about my new release…

Last Chance Rescue (a finalist in the 2009 Indie Awards) is about two people who must fight their own defenses to finally let down the walls that will allow them to rescue each other. It is a story about breath-taking search-and-rescue action and adventurous lives—and the heart that is behind it all.

When did I start writing? How did I decide what to write?

I wrote during high school, and even toyed with the idea of getting a communications degree (I didn’t; I got a business management degree). During my college years I was more interested in music, and sang with different show groups and local bands. Then I got into the beaded jewelry craze. When my son was born, the beads could no longer be left spread out on a table—which meant they didn’t come out much!

By this time I had a half-dozen novels (or, more specifically, parts and pieces of) and I kept having dreams that I felt compelled to write about in the morning. Apparently there were stories inside me that just had to be told!

My writing is heavily influenced by the time I spent in the military and by the medical training I received there. When I became a helicopter pilot, it opened new relationships with some amazing people—and Last Chance really came together after I did some ride-alongs with medevac and search-and-rescue.


When I’m not writing, I read…

I like books with complex, more adult characters (Nicolas Sparks comes to mind); I am particularly fascinated by how a male character may change/be changed by events/situations (a major theme in Last Chance Rescue as well). I like unusual settings, but not to the point of unbelievability (which is why I did ride-alongs with a medevac team before I finished writing Last Chance Rescue). My ‘pet peeve’ is a book with too much ‘headhopping’ (constantly changing points of view).


Three “Must Haves” when I write:

1 - QUIET (easier said than done when you have two young children)
2 - No distractions (i.e., no internet!)
3 - I must be in the mood (I don’t write for a living and don’t want to because I never want it to stop being fun)

Favorite things to do in my downtime:

I am wife and mother to two young children (2 and 6) and I enjoy spending time with them, especially outdoors whenever possible.

I ride my motorcycle as often as I can! I just started taking lessons for my fixed-wing pilot license (an ‘add-on’ to my helicopter license). I play the taiko drums every Saturday morning and sing with my friend’s band when I can. When I can get away, I enjoy skiing (all kinds) and white-water rafting/kayaking.


Purchase Info:

You can get a signed copy directly from me at http://www.lastchancerescuebook.com/order.htm

You can also order from Amazon.com
http://www.amazon.com/Last-Chance-Rescue-Romance-Mountains/dp/1434828476/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpt_1http://www.lastchancerescuebook.com/order.htm


Blog/Web site:

Web site: http://www.LastChanceRescueBook.com
(You can sign up to receive my newsletter, which I send once every 6 weeks or so.)

Blog: http://www.lastchancerescue.blogspot.com/
(I post an average of twice/week.)


What crayon color would you be:

Purple. Because it is royal (I secretly desire to be treated like a queen!) and deep (yep, I know I’m deep…)


Favorite Movie…

Honestly, I’d rather read or write than watch movies (and definitely not TV), and I’m woefully ignorant of actresses (not to mention bad with names). But I would definitely want Richard Gere to be the leading man (he just might be the sexiest (older) man alive…)!


Favorites…

Color: purple (big surprise, huh?)
Food: chocolate (still no surprises…)
Drink: home-made Baileys, hot apple cider and Panera’s mango smoothie


Tracey Cramer-Kelly, Author
INDIE AWARD FINALIST, "Last Chance Rescue"

Please visit www.LastChanceRescueBook.com






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Thursday, November 19, 2009

I need a Book Addiction Meeting

Hi!
My name is Amy.
I am a book addict.
I have not bought a book in over 2 weeks.
I have found my strength crumbling.
Tonight, I am afraid I will be jumping off the wagon, not falling.
This is why:


Evidence will be submitted to you tomorrow. Please go easy on me.
Amy-Addicted to Books

THIRSTY by Tracey Bateman (blog tour)


THIRSTY: A NOVEL
Author: Tracey Bateman
Source: WaterBrook Multnomah
*I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*
  • Paperback: 384 pages
  • Publisher: WaterBrook Press (October 6, 2009)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 030745715X
  • ISBN-13: 978-0307457158


SYNOPSIS:

There's no place like home, they say.
"Hello, I'm Nina Parker…and I'm an alcoholic." For Nina, it's not the weighty admission but the first steps toward recovery that prove most difficult. She must face her ex-husband, Hunt, with little hope of making amends, and try to rebuild a relationship with her angry teenage daughter, Meagan. Hardest of all, she is forced to return to Abbey Hills, Missouri, the hometown she abruptly abandoned nearly two decades earlier–and her unexpected arrival in the sleepy Ozark town catches the attention of someone–or something–igniting a two-hundred-fifty-year-old desire that rages like a wildfire. Unaware of the darkness stalking her, Nina is confronted with a series of events that threaten to unhinge her sobriety. Her daughter wants to spend time with the parents Nina left behind. A terrifying event that has haunted Nina for almost twenty years begins to surface. And an alluring neighbor initiates an unusual friendship with Nina, but is Markus truly a kindred spirit or a man guarding dangerous secrets? As everything she loves hangs in the balance, will Nina's feeble grasp on her demons be broken, leaving her powerless against the thirst? The battle between redemption and obsession unfold to its startling, unforgettable end.

MY TAKE:

Thirsty is a vampire read but from the Christian perspective. It involves substance abuse and how it can wreck a family, but with love it can come out better in the long run. I found myself wrapped up in Nina's struggle and makes you realize that it can happen to anyone, even someone you love. Even though it is in the Religious section, you don't get the impression of a sermon while reading it. It was well balanced and a captivating read. This was suspenseful and intense, but if you have a teen struggling with substance abuse, I still think they could benefit from this read. Don't expect the Twilight or True Blood aspect of the vampire world when you read this book. Yes, it is about a vampires, but it is also about religion and substance abuse.
MY RATING:



Very Good! Worth Spending Your Money on!


Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Lynsay Sands Challenge REDO

I decided to redo this challenge since there was interest in it, but too short of a time line. So I redid the challenge with a full year for everyone. The rest of the instruction are as follows.


I just love author Lynsay Sands. I love her Argeneau series. So I decided I wanted to re-read the series just for fun. THEN I thought since no one has this challenge going on that I would host it as a reading challenge for everyone. If you haven't read any of these books, you are in for a real treat. Love, vampires and humor all in a book! If you have read the series, go ahead and re-read them and review them for your blog! This is my first time hosting a reading challenge, so I hope I am doing this correctly!

Here are the guidelines:

1. This challenge is just for the first 9 books in the series. We aren't going to include the Hunter series. I might do that after this challenge.

2. Sign up anytime for the challenge, but your challenge is to be completed by Dec. 30, 2010.

3. If you decide to participate in the challenge, post this on your blog with a link back to this blog so that other people can find their way here to sign up.

4. When you sign up under Mr. Linky, list the direct link to your post where your challenge is posted. If you list just your blog’s general URL, it will be removed.

5. When you are all done with the challenge, email me the links to your reviews.

6. If you have any questions, feel free to email me!

Here are the titles of the books in order:
1. A Quick Bite
2. Love Bites
3. Single White Vampire
4. Tall, Dark and Hungry
5. A Bite to Remember
6. Bite Me
7. Accidental Vampire
8. Vampires are Forever
9. Vampire Interrupted

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GOTHIC! Ten Original Dark Tales


GOTHIC! 10 Original Dark Tales
Author: Edited by Deborah Noyes
Source: Candlewick Press
  • Reading level: Young Adult
  • Paperback: 256 pages
  • Publisher: Candlewick (June 13, 2006)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0763627372
  • ISBN-13: 978-0763627379
SYNOPSIS:
A lovesick count and the ghost of his brutalized servant . . . a serial killer who defies death . . . a house with a violent mind of its own and another that holds a grotesque secret within its peeling walls. Here are witches who feast on faces, changeling rites of passage, a venerable vampire contemplating his end, and a fanged brat who drains the patience of a bumbling teenage boy. Here too are a flamboyant young novelist in search of a subject more compelling than his own eerie existence and the daughter of a sorcerer fighting to free her lover — and her will — from sinister bonds. Enter the world of GOTHIC!, a celebration of the literary form made famous by such writers as Mary Shelley and Edgar Allan Poe. With chilling stories by: Joan Aiken M. T. Anderson Neil Gaiman Caitlín R. Kiernan Gregory Maguire Garth Nix Celia Rees Janni Lee Simner Vivian Vande Velde Barry Yourgrau

MY TAKE:

When I sat down to read this book, I thought this is going to be all about girls in black and deep depression. Boy was I wrong. These were quick reads that I could imagine repeating at campfires or at a slumber party. My favorite was the first story, but all of them gave you the creepy feelings. Overall it was not a bad book. Some of the stories I thought were dumb, but for the majority of them, it was a great fast read! Perfect for the slumber party for girls and boys!

MY RATING:



Very Good! Worth Spending Your Money on!


*I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*

Dark of the Moon by Rachel Hawthorne


DARK OF THE MOON
DARK GUARDIAN #3
Author: Rachel Hawthorne
Source: Library
  • Reading level: Young Adult
  • Paperback: 272 pages
  • Publisher: HarperTeen; 1 edition (August 25, 2009)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0061709573
  • ISBN-13: 978-0061709579
SYNOPSIS:

I've loved him forever, but he can never be mine.

Brittany is determined to prove herself to the Dark Guardians. And yet she's been keeping a devastating secret: She hasn't experienced any of the intense, early signs of change that mark a Dark Guardian's transformation. The only intense feelings she has are for Connor—and she's kept that a secret, too. But she knows she'll never truly have Connor's love if she's not a Shifter like him.

At the first full moon after her birthday, her greatest fear is realized: She doesn't transform. Brittany is so desperate to become a wolf that she'll go to extremes she never thought possible . . . and put all the Dark Guardians in incredible danger.

MY TAKE:

After reading the last book in this series, I was hoping this series would make a comeback with Dark of the Moon. Boy, did it! I loved this book! Brittany is the tough girl of the group. The smart ass, tough as nails, hates pink kind of girl. She has been in love with Connor for a long time. When it comes time for her full moon for shifting, Brittany doesn't change. She doesn't know why, but is devastated since she has been waiting for this forever. She doesn't know how to tell anyone as well, since she has never really had a close bond with any of the other girls. I found the slow romance between Connor and Brittany wonderful and the writing flowed smoothly. I am so glad the author came back from the last book with lots of juicy writing. There were suppose to only be three in this series, but her site now states that there will be another one. I cannot wait to see what more she has in store for her readers!

MY RATING:


Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading!



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A new twist on fairy tales!

Now this is my kind of story! LOL...Sorry but I just had to share this!!
Thanks mom for the good laugh today!


Once upon a time there lived a king.
The king had a beautiful daughter,
The PRINCESS..

But there was a problem. Everything the princess touched would melt.
No matter what;

Metal,

Wood,

Stone,

Anything she touched would melt.
Because of this, men were afraid of her. Nobody would dare marry her.
The king despaired. What could he do to help his daughter?
He consulted his wizards and magicians. One wizard told the king,
'If your daughter touches one thing that does not melt in her hands, she will be cured.'
The king was overjoyed and came up with a plan.
The next day, he held a competition. Any man that could bring his daughter an object that would not melt would marry her and inherit the king's wealth..
THREE YOUNG PRINCES TOOK UP THE CHALLENGE.

The first brought a sword of the finest steel.

But alas, when the princess touched it, it melted.
The prince went away sadly .

The second prince brought diamonds.

He thought diamonds are the hardest substance in the world and would not melt.
But alas, once the princess touched them, they melted.
He too was sent away disappointed.

The third prince approached. He told the princess,
'Put your hand in my pocket and feel what is in there.'
The princess did as she was told, though she turned red .

She felt something hard. She held it in her hand.
And it did not melt!!!
The king was overjoyed. Everybody in the kingdom was overjoyed. And the third prince married the princess and they both lived happily ever after.

Question: What was in the prince's pants?



M&M's of course.

They melt in your mouth, not in your hand.
What were you thinking??

YOU THINK I HAVE A DIRTY MIND!

HOW TO BE FAMOUS by Heidi Montag & Spencer Pratt


HOW TO BE FAMOUS
Author: Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt

  • Hardcover: 144 pages
  • Publisher: Grand Central Publishing (November 16, 2009)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0446555916
  • ISBN-13: 978-0446555913
SYNOPSIS:

From braving the wilds of Los Angeles to the Costa Rican jungle, Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt have learned a thing or two about reality...television, that is. But while dominating the airwaves and tabloid covers every week may look like all fun and mind games, Speidi is here to tell you: becoming wildly famous requires hard work and a no-fail blueprint for success. Now, for the first time ever, Heidi and Spencer invite you behind the scenes as they reveal the ten-step plan that took them from nobodies to notorious! You will:
  • Learn how to say I hate you without opening your mouth--Heidi's exclusive tutorial
  • Increase your capacity for evil with Spencer's "Villain-o-meter"
  • Discover why getting and talking about plastic surgery is a must
  • Unlock the secrets of celebrity couple math (e.g. Speidi > Heidi + Spencer)
  • Mesmerize the media with outrageous behavior
  • Bow down to the power of the paparazzi
...and much, much more! With Heidi and Spencer as your personal coaches, you, too, can transform yourself into a red-carpet-ready superstar!

MY TAKE:

I know what you are thinking. WHY would anyone want this book about this couple?? Well, I admit that if the publisher had not asked me to review this, I don't know if I would have even gave it a second look at the bookstore. Now if it is along side the tabloids at the supermarket, I might glance through it. In my opinion, that is exactly where it needs to be! By the trash mags! Of course, you are also thinking that if Speidi is reading this, they would be upset at what I said. I doubt it. For one, I don't think they would be reading my little blog. Two, they explain that no matter what kind of publicity it is, people are still talking about them. The book is suppose to be a tongue and cheek kind of read. Well, to me it was more like a try-not-to-vomit read. Heidi is so snobbish and stuck up that you can only tell she is spoiled and vain in the writing of this book. She continues to elaborate on how she was in playboy and other magazines(there something to tell your children) and Spencer tries to explain how to be a bad boy. There wasn't one thing I liked about the book. Even the color photos that are included, made me want to throw darts at it. Some of the photos were raunchy and had no class. If, you see this book next to the tabloids, you are better off picking up the latest one with BatBoy meeting the President!

MY RATING:



I did not enjoy this book.

*I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*

TOUCHED BY A VAMPIRE by Beth Felker Jones (BLOG TOUR)


TOUCHED BY A VAMPIRE
Author: Beth Felker Jones
Source: Water Brooks Multnomah
* I received this book free of charge in exchange for an honest review*
  • Paperback: 192 pages
  • Publisher: Multnomah Books (October 6, 2009)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1601422784
  • ISBN-13: 978-1601422781


SYNOPSIS:


People around the world are asking the same question, enraptured with Edward and Bella’s forbidden romance in the Twilight Saga, a four-book serial phenomenon written by Stephenie Meyer. The bestsellers tell the story of a regular girl’s relationship with a vampire who has chosen to follow his “good” side. But the Saga isn’t just another fantasy–it’s teaching girls about love, sex, and purpose. With 48 million copies in print and a succession of upcoming blockbuster films, now is the time to ask the important question: Can vampires teach us about God’s plan for love? Touched by a Vampire is the first book to investigate the themes of the Twilight Saga from a Biblical perspective. Some Christian readers have praised moral principles illustrated in the story, such as premarital sexual abstinence, which align with Meyer’s Mormon beliefs. But ultimately, Beth Felker Jones examines whether the story’s redemptive qualities outshine its darkness. Cautionary, thoughtful, and challenging, Touched by a Vampire is written for Twilight fans, parents, teachers, and pop culture enthusiasts. It includes an overview of the series for those unfamiliar with the storyline and a discussion guide for small groups.
MY TAKE:

As a HUGE fan of the Twilight saga, I just knew I had to read this book. Yes, I am one of those fans that has to read anything that relates to the series. I was surprised to find that this book had things in it that I didn't even realize while reading the Twilight series. It gives the meaning to forbidden romance, dangerous love and many other themes throughout the Twilight series that you wouldn't really think about. It gives you the religious point of view of each book and the hidden meanings in each topic related to the series. It also has little discussion guides in it to share with others for meetings such as bible studies and group discussions.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I had plenty of AH-HA moments when it explained the topics through religious eyes and not just the fan-of-the-series eyes. Great for teens as well!

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading!


Tuesday, November 17, 2009

TUESDAY TEASER


I found Tuesday Teaser over at Should Be Reading and was inspired to join in!

Anyone can play along. Just do the following:
  • Grab your current read
  • Open to a random page
  • Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
  • BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
  • Share the title & author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!
HERE IS MY TT for you:

He kissed one corner of my mouth and then the other. His touch was as gentle as a butterfly on a petal. page 197, Dark of the Moon by Rachel Hawthorne