Books À La Carte

Battle Royale by Koushun Takami

2011-08-25T00:12:00.006+10:00

Koushun Takami's notorious high-octane thriller is based on an irresistible premise: a class of junior high school students is taken to a deserted island where, as part of a ruthless authoritarian program, they are provided arms and forced to kill one another until only one survivor is left standing. Criticized as violent exploitation when first published in Japan - where it then proceeded to become a runaway bestseller - Battle Royale is a Lord of the Flies for the 21st century, a potent allegory of what it means to be young and (barely) alive in a dog-eat-dog world.

Battle Royale had this dark atmosphere right from the start. You are pulled into book and thrown on the deserted island where the 'program' is carried out. The characters in the book don't know where they are and as a reader you don't know either, which makes it spine chilling. Only one student can survive in the program and if no one participates in the 'game' then they will all die. Violent battles ensue. The students don't know who to trust even though they've been classmates for years, because someone might just betray them in the end to guarantee their own survival.

At the beginning I was overwhelmed at the 40+ names I had to remember but as you read on, you get to know and remember most of them. We dive into back stories of some of the characters which make them seem more human, rather than simple empty beings fighting for their survival and it makes it hard to read the outcomes of some of the characters you've grown to like. This book was unputdownable as I desperately wanted to find out how everything could possibly end.

★★★★★ for the unputdownability

Bargain Buys

2011-08-24T23:30:00.003+10:00

This week, I discovered an Australian store: Basement Books where they sell books for up to 90% off the retail price! (awesome.)
The website sells excess stock that other bookstores can't sell or remaindered books which means they have a black texta mark across the edge of the book so it can't be returned to the publisher by the retailer.

The YA range is quite small but I grabbed two novels for a measly $2.40 each (shipped free!), only one of them was marked with texta and the other one was perfectly new! The books I grabbed both happen to be about previous lives/reincarnations (and have pretty covers):

The Eternal Ones by Kirsten Miller

Ever since Haven Moore can remember, she’s experienced visions of a previous life as a girl named Constance, whose love for her soulmate Ethan ended in tragedy. And then the sight of the world’s hottest movie star, Iain Morrow, brings Haven to her knees. She knows she has met him before. Is Iain her beloved Ethan?
Unable to deny her past any longer, seventeen-year old Haven flees to New York to find him- and an epic love affair begins. But it is both deeply fated and terribly dangerous. Can Haven unlock the deadly secrets hidden in her past lives- and loves- before all is lost and Ethan disappears again… forever?

Anxious Hearts by Tucker Shaw

Eva and Gabe explore the golden forest of their seaside Maine town, unknowingly tracing the footsteps of two teens, Evangeline and Gabriel, who once lived in the idyllic wooded village of Acadia more than one hundred years ago. On the day that Evangeline and Gabriel were be wed, their village was attacked and the two were separated. And now in the present, Gabe has mysteriously disappeared from Eva.

A dreamlike, loose retelling of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s famous love poem “Evangeline,” Anxious Hearts tells an epic tale of unrequited love and the hope that true love can be reunited

Chasers by James Phelan

2011-04-14T18:00:00.004+10:00

Jesse is on a UN Youth Ambassadors camp in New York when his subway carriage is rocked by an explosion. Jesse and his three friends, Dave, Mini and Anna, crawl out from the wreckage to discover a city in chaos.

Streets are deserted. Buildings are in ruins. Worse, the only other survivors seem to be infected with a virus that turns them into horrifying predators...

Outnumbered. No sign of life. Just them. And you... ALONE.

Yesterday at the library I came across this series called 'Alone'. The blurb intrigued me. It sounded generic but I just wanted a good book to fight the boredom and this book did the job. From the start this book was fast paced and attention grabbing. We are introduced to the characters David, Min and Anna, who the main character Jesse becomes friends with on a UN camp trip. I liked how these characters were of different cultures/backgrounds to give some sense that these characters aren't just cardboard cutouts used for the purpose of encountering terrible situations. There wasn't much action in the book but this only made it seem more eerie and suspenseful.

The setting is in Manhattan (kinda typical for dystopian movies, right?). Unlike movies, I got to learn a bit about the city, googling the places mentioned the book which was a bonus (You can learn from fiction!).

My absolute favourite section was the ending. It was totally bloodcurdling and left me gasping out loud. I never saw the twist coming. People who like the Tomorrow series by John Marsden and dystopian movies like Cloverfield and I am Legend will gobble this book up!

★★★★★

The Cellar by AJ Whitten

2011-01-09T11:18:00.013+11:00

Source of ebook: NetGalley
Thanks to HMH Books for giving me the chance to read The Cellar! The copy I read was an uncorrected proof.

Meredith Willis is suspicious of Adrien, the new guy next door. When she dares to sneak a look into the windows of his house, she sees something in the cellar that makes her believe that Adrien might be more than just a creep—he may be an actual monster.

But her sister, Heather, doesn’t share Meredith’s repulsion. Heather believes Adrien is the only guy who really understands her. In fact, she may be falling in love with him. When Adrien and Heather are cast as the leads in the school production of Romeo and Juliet, to Heather, it feels like fate. To Meredith, it feels like a bad omen. But if she tries to tear the couple apart, she could end up in the last place she’d ever want to be: the cellar. Can Meredith convince her sister that she’s dating the living dead before it’s too late for both of them?

The story deviates from the summary and the phrase on the cover 'Romeo and Juliet meet the living dead in...The Cellar'. The situation between the lovers in the book bared a only very slight resemblance to Romeo and Juliet's forbidden love and sad fate.

Heather and Meredith are sisters and their family are undergoing complications in coping with losing a loved one. One day, Heather, who is in a state of depression encounters Adrien, a mysterious new guy at school who she connects instantly with. He has the whole school's female population at school under his spell. When things seem to become bright for Heather, Meredith feels something is not right and warns Heather but Heather takes it the wrong way; she thinks her sister doesn't want her to be happy.

Meredith takes it into her hands to confirm her suspicions of Adrien who lives next door that there is something very strange about him, by spying through his windows of his house's cellar at any chance. What she finds terrifies her and convinces herself that she must tell Heather and get her away from Adrien. However the worst thing has happened: Heather and Adrien become closer and closer, lands in the main leads of the school play 'Romeo and Juliet' and Heather won't believe a thing her sister says.

The book is told in various perspectives. Third person for everyone except for Meredith where first person narrative is used. Because of the changing narratives, the book felt a bit choppy and didn't flow very well when events of an earlier time were explained once again, but I could see it would have be restrictive for the story had only Meredith's point of view been presented.

The writing is so vivid you get to live through the dread and nausea Meredith experiences. While the atmosphere of the book was mostly glum, I liked how in Meredith's narration, she threw in some funny comments. Furthermore, there is blossoming feelings between Meredith and a childhood friend/sister's ex-boyfriend Sam which was nice break from the never-ending gloominess.

I couldn't ship the relationship that brewed up between Adrien and Heather. Not only because of Adrien being the repulsive 'monster' but also because of all his actions. Their relationship was manufactured and didn't run it's natural course- I felt that Heather was a pawn in Adrien's game and Adrien controlled every move. I just wanted her to snap out of it! By the end of the novel, I still couldn't make myself like this character and believe his love for Heather.

The major thing I disliked in the book was how the cousins (Tad and Ted) in the story are twins and they were poorly characterised and stereotypical (being a twin I felt strongly about this). I mean seriously, Tweedledee and Tweedledum are their nicknames? Finishing off each other's speeches? I couldn't take another bite of it (pun intended)!

The ending was a welcome twist I didn't see coming! Overall, The Cellar is a spine-chilling read but it hangs onto you, never letting go until you finish. (In my case, I had to because some time at around 3am while I was reading, my table light flickered off and wouldn't turn back on so I finished it the ~~next~~same day!)

★★★★

Shrinking Violet by Danielle Joseph

2011-01-02T15:05:00.004+11:00

High school senior Teresa Adams is so painfully shy that she dreads speaking to anyone in the hallways or getting called on in class. But in the privacy of her bedroom with her iPod in hand, she rocks out -- doing mock broadcasts for Miami's hottest FM radio station, which happens to be owned by her stepfather. When a slot opens up at The SLAM, Tere surprises herself by blossoming behind the mike into confident, sexy Sweet T -- and to everyone's shock, she's a hit! Even Gavin, the only guy in school who she dares to talk to, raves about the mysterious DJ's awesome taste in music. But when The SLAM announces a songwriting contest -- and a prom date with Sweet T is the grand prize -- Sweet T's dream could turn into Tere's worst nightmare....

I liked reading about the main character Teresa coming out of her shell. I was a bit peeved at how she came out of her shell; she gets an open slot at her stepdad's music station by her relations. The stepdad basically goes 'Just turn up on this day and see what it's like.' after an argument erupts with Tere and her mum. I should mention that her love and knowledge of music (which she declared to her stepdad and mom and is clear to us) made her a perfect candidate but still, no interview and she got the job?!

Other than this annoyance, the development of Teresa was enjoyable to read. She has to deal with an English class oral presentation, bullying, a discouraging mother (who tries to make her something she's not) and hiding her radio identity from her secret crush Gavin, while also becoming closer to him.

The radio station setting was unique and insight into the radio business made the books' cliches not too bad. A bunch of characters made the book the opposite of dull for example DJ Derek from the station who manages to make any situation strangely uncomfortable and front desk receptionist Pop Tart/Kelly who is much more than her outward appearance.

The last half of the book was pretty much predictable when a contest is held for a local aspiring songwriter/singer to take Sweet T to her prom - I was just waiting for my predications to happen. Nevertheless, it was still exciting to read when the event unfolded. Shrinking Violet was a cute and fast happy-ending read.

★★★.5

I am Number Four by Pittacus Lore

2010-12-16T20:17:00.011+11:00

In the beginning they were a group of nine. Nine aliens who left their home planet of Lorien when it fell under attack by the evil Mogadorian. Nine aliens who scattered on Earth. Nine aliens who look like ordinary teenagers living ordinary lives, but who have extraordinary, paranormal skills. Nine aliens who might be sitting next to you now.

The Nine had to separate and go into hiding. The Mogadorian caught Number One in Malaysia, Number Two in England, and Number Three in Kenya. All of them were killed. John Smith, of Paradise, Ohio, is Number Four. He knows that he is next.

A movie trailer my sister sent me got me interested in reading I am Number Four:

Basically, the story is about nine Lorien aliens who leave their planet for Earth with their guardians after their planet has been attacked. Aliens from a different planet called Mogadorians are after to kill each Lorien and to take over Earth once this is done. They are limited to killing the Loriens in numerical order, otherwise they face inflicting double of the damage they cause onto themselves. Loriens develop legacies/superpowers over time which further complicates the task. Number Four has been on the run for many years and in the beginning of this book he assumes a new identity: John Smith, in the town Paradise.

The premises of the book sounded exciting however the book was too long and drawn out. The first 3/4 of the book moved quite slow when we are introduced to the background of John's species, the developing of his powers/Legacies, a human love interest Sarah Hart and a bunch of situations which risk exposing John's identity.

I did not really ship the Sarah and John coupling. I was disappointed in the lack of chemistry I felt between them. Sarah was a dull character to say the least. The one relationship which I found notable and heartwarming was between Henri and John. I loved the fatherly-son relationship that occurred between the two characters despite there being no blood bond.

The last 1/4 of the book was full of action. The descriptions of the bad guys (Mogadorian scouts/soldiers) are so vivid it gave chills every time they appeared. Unfortunately, soon after the action/climax began I was worn out from reading about the different environments, battle scenes and Mogadorian monsters/aliens John encountered. Throughout there were suspenseful but reoccurring situations of This-must-be-the-end-I'll-just-accept-it...-but-wait-someone-saved-me? This section of the book felt written for Film/TV. It was really hard to process the scenes and I couldn't help thinking that "this would translate well to a movie by using special effects and camera angles".

The next book in the Lorien Legacies series is called The Power of Six. Six was a female Lorien introduced toward to end of I am Number Four and boy was she kick-ass. I might read the next book for the sole reason that she was my favourite character.

I rate I am Number Four ★★★.5

What’s in a Name 4 Challenge

2010-12-10T02:34:00.004+11:00

What's in a Name 4 Challenge is hosted by Beth Fish Reads

The challenge - Between January 1 and December 31, 2011, read one book in each of the following categories:

1. A book with a number in the title [The Eternal Ones by Kirsten Miller]
2. A book with jewelry or a gem in the title
3. A book with a size in the title [Amy and Roger's Epic Detour by Morgan Matson]✔
4. A book with travel or movement in the title [Chain Reaction by Simone Elkeles]✔
5. A book with evil in the title [Battle Royale by Takami Koushin]✔
6. A book with a life stage in the title

This sounds like a really creative and fun challenge. I often find it hard to choose a book to read so this will help to narrow down the choices :D

New Layout!

2010-12-10T02:04:00.003+11:00

^ My old layout

I finally caved into boredom and decided to change the layout for this neglected blog. What do you think? B)

Nevermore by Kelly Creagh

2010-10-08T23:11:00.004+11:00

Cheerleader Isobel Lanley is horrified when she is paired with Varen Nethers for an English project, which is due—so unfair—on the day of the rival game. Cold and aloof, sardonic and sharp-tongued, Varen makes it clear he’d rather not have anything to do with her either. But when Isobel discovers strange writing in his journal, she can’t help but give this enigmatic boy with the piercing eyes another look.

Soon, Isobel finds herself making excuses to be with Varen. Steadily pulled away from her friends and her possessive boyfriend, Isobel ventures deeper and deeper into the dream world Varen has created through the pages of his notebook, a realm where the terrifying stories of Edgar Allan Poe come to life.

As her world begins to unravel around her, Isobel discovers that dreams, like words, hold more power than she ever imagined, and that the most frightening realities are those of the mind. Now she must find a way to reach Varen before he is consumed by the shadows of his own nightmares.

His life depends on it.

Nevermore pulled me in from the start and had me reading it instead of doing assignments T_T. I swore that I would not read until all my assignments were done but this book was too addictive to be left alone! The unlikely couple of a cheerleader Isobel and goth Varen had me intrigued. I liked the transition set up from meeting to falling in love. The pacing was perfect as their love for each other was not sudden and out of the blue. I loved the numerous scenes and interactions between them.

They first meet when they are paired up on a project on Edgar Allan Poe. In my opinion, the classroom ignore-your-partner scene has been done so many times before but it never gets boring for me. The bonus in Nevermore was I was exposed to some english literature while I read about the characters researching their project! I liked reading the discussions between Isobel and Varen after a chunks of a Poe's poems were quoted.

About 2/3 of the way into the book, the paranormal element hit full blast. I couldn't get my head around the 'dream world' and what was happening. It felt like I was reading a totally different book because the atmosphere changed. I don't know if this was meant to be related to Poe in someway but I found myself losing interest at the lengthy explanations of the 'dream world'. It was like the book took it to two extremes - the very normal (first 2/3's) and then very warped, which I didn't like much.

There's a cruel cliffhanger (a cliff was literally involved I think) at the end. I'm definitely keeping watch of news about the second book because no one can be satisfied with an ending like that!!

★★★★.5

Blue Moon by Alyson Noel

2010-07-24T13:57:00.003+10:00

Eager to learn everything she can about her new abilities as an Immortal, Ever turns to her beloved Damen to show her the way. But just as her powers are increasing, Damen’s are waning. In an attempt to save him, Ever travels to the magical dimension of Summerland, where she learns the secrets of Damen’s tortured past; a past which he has always kept hidden from her. But in her quest to cure Damen, Ever discovers an ancient text that details the workings of time. Now Ever must chose between turning back the past and saving her family from the accident that claimed their lives—or staying in the present and saving Damen, who grows sicker every day...

From Evermore, Blue Moon took a turn I never expected, in a good way. The atmosphere felt somewhat different (and I liked it.) There is more on Damen and Ever's previous lives and a focus on more paranormal elements such as Summerland a world between worlds, potions and Ever's development in the use of her 'powers'. My attention was grabbed right from the start and I felt there was never a dull moment in the book. The only annoyance I had was at the ~~likeness~~ sameness of the character's speech namely Riley, her sister and Haven, her friend ("Like, Seriously Ever", I never really could distinguish between these characters as they just get pissed at Ever).

Ever's choice towards the end of the book albeit stupid and thoughtless will definitely pan out in the next installment and provide for some interesting situations and speculation as to how things will be resolved.

★★★★.5

Princess for Hire by Lindsey Leavitt

2010-07-09T21:40:00.004+10:00

When a well-dressed woman steps out of a bubble and wants to know if you'd like to become a substitute princess, do you
A) run
B) faint
C) say yes?
For Desi Bascomb, who's been longing for some glamour in her Idaho life, the choice is a definite C). Desi has a rare ability: with the help of "Royal Rouge," she can temporarily transform into the exact look-alike of any princess who needs her subbing services. Dream come true, right?
Well, Desi soon discovers that subbing involves a lot more than wearing a tiara and waving at cameras.... In this winning debut, one girl's dream of glamour transforms into the desire to make a positive impact. And an impact Desi makes, one royal fiasco at a time.

First of all, I have to say that Princess for Hire is the most pinkest book/thing I own plus it's glittery and I love it! I was expecting some fluff and fairytale but instead I was blown away about how good it was in exploring real life issues. The main character Desi is a girl who is easy to relate to. Reading in her perspective was really fun and hilarious and at other times made me empathize with her. My heart was literally wrenching during some of the events Desi had to experience.

I really liked how the book was half about Desi's subbing jobs and half about her own life. In subbing, Desi lets herself go, expressing what she wants while at her own life, she fails in doing so. As the story progresses, the confidence Desi receives from her subbing jobs slowly transfers to her own life and this provides for great character development!

One particular character I liked was Prince Karl. Desi mentions that Karl was alright looking but not as good looking as his brother. The extremely good looking prince turns out to be arrogant and full of himself while as the readers follow Desi in getting to know Karl, we find his character and personality is swoon-worthy. Too many books I have read are about falling in love with handsome guys with every good trait imaginable so this was a pop of fresh air.

A downside of the book was that some characters felt like cardboard cutouts such as the crush with no likeable traits whatsoever and the villain who does bad things for no reason though I'm sure if the book weren't so short, they could/would have been fleshed out a little more. I'm anticipating the next in the series for sure!

★★★★★

Winner of First International Giveaway

2010-07-09T21:24:00.004+10:00

Thanks to all for participating and I hope you had fun! There were 14 entrants and 91 entries.

Answers:
1. You wish
2. Elixir
3. Hexbound
4. Halo
5. Misguided Angel
6. Please ignore Vera Dietz
7. Crossing over
8. The Secret of Ka

The random number generator chose:

The winning entry belongs to Sara @ YA Vampire Books! Congrats! An email with the e-voucher will be sent your way. Enjoy your prize!

Pretty Little Liars by Sara Shepard

2010-06-23T12:31:00.001+10:00

Everyone has something to hide—especially high school juniors Spencer, Aria, Emily, and Hanna.

Spencer covets her sister's boyfriend. Aria's fantasizing about her English teacher. Emily's crushing on the new girl at school. Hanna uses some ugly tricks to stay beautiful.

But they've all kept an even bigger secret since their friend Alison vanished.

How do I know? Because I know everything about the bad girls they were, the naughty girls they are, and all the dirty secrets they've kept. And guess what? I'm telling.

Never would I have thought a book could be fun and frightening at the same time! Pretty little liars is about four girls who are very different, dealing with their own problems but are connected through one person who went missing. Each girl receives messages that remind them of their secrets, from the mysterious 'A'. Could it be their friend who went missing 3 years ago, Alison?

I love how the book does not dwell on one character, instead the author skips from character to character and we are left hanging as to what happened and have no choice but to keep reading to find out. Real life issues combined with drama make for a very interesting read!

★★★★★

My First International Giveaway

2010-06-18T10:38:00.008+10:00

^Some of the books you could choose!

I've been in the receiving end of a number of giveaways and thought it's time to reverse the role! Not very huge for my first giveaway but up for grabs is a $15AUD e-voucher to cd-wow.com.au. You can only redeem at the Australian cd-wow site but they ship worldwide. It has free shipping so with $15 you may even get 2 books!

To gain entries, guess from the cropped images below, which book covers they come from. Just the book titles will do. Hint: They are upcoming releases.
I've seen this from other book blog contests but I can't remember which ones. I hope it is alright to use the idea!

This giveaway has ended. Winner announced here.

Good luck! This contest ends 9th July 2010. The winner will be chosen using random number generator.

SYNC YA Literature into Your Earphones

2010-06-08T22:21:00.005+10:00

SYNC YA Literature into Your Earphones (More info: http://www.audiofilemagazine.com/sync/info.html)

2 Free Audiobook Downloads Each Week
July 1 - September 1, 2010

Teens and other readers of Young Adult Literature will have the opportunity to listen to bestselling titles and classics this summer. Each week from July 1 - September 1, SYNC will offer two free audiobook downloads.

The audiobook pairings will include a popular YA title and a classic that connects with the YA title's theme and is likely to show up on required summer reading lists. For example, Frank Beddor's The Looking Glass Wars, a popular series with strong allusions to Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, will be paired with Lewis Carroll's classic.

SYNC will also invite listeners (13+) into online discussions with librarians, publishers, authors, narrators, and other listeners about the featured books.

Visit www.AudiobookSync.com after July 1 and prepare to download great books in your player to take wherever summer might lead you.

Here is a list of titles:
Available July 1 - July 7
The Angel Experiment by James Patterson
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley

Available July 8 - July 14
Over the End Line by Alfred C. Martino
The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay

Available July 15 - July 21
Bloody Jack by L.A. Meyer
Treasure Island by Robert Louis Stevenson

Available July 22 - July 28
The Looking Glass Wars by Frank Beddor
Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll

Available July 29 - August 4
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Available August 5 - August 11
Does My Head Look Big in This? by Randa Abdel-Fattah
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith

Available August 12 - August 18
Coming Soon...

Available August 19 - August 25
Wondrous Strange by Lesley Livingston
A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare

Available August 26 - September 1
Handbook for Boys by Walter Dean Myers
Oliver Twist by Charles Dickens

According to the site, each audiobook will be available for download for 7 days. Happy listening and reading, everyone!

Old Magic by Marianne Curley

2010-05-25T12:34:00.002+10:00

The moment the new guy walks into the room, Kate senses something strange and intense about him. Something supernatural. Her instincts are proven correct a few minutes later when, bullied by his classmates, Jarrod unknowingly conjures up a freak thunderstorm inside their classroom.

Jarrod doesn't believe in the paranormal. When Kate tries to convince him that he has extraordinary powers that need to be harnessed, he only puts up with her "hocus pocus" notions because he finds her captivating. However, the dangerous, uncontrolled strengthening of his gift finally convinces Jarrod that he must take Kate's theories seriously. Together, they embark on a remarkable journey—one which will unravel the mystery that has haunted Jarrod's family for generations and pit the teens against immense forces in a battle to undo the past and reshape the future.

This is probably the first YA book I've read which is written by an Australian author. Even though I'm Australian myself, when I hear 'Australian' I think of the stereotypical references such as the outback and the accent we are so well known for. To be honest I didn't even know this was written by an Aussie until it made mention of New South Wales! There was no mention of the above mentioned references and the setting didn't affect the plot much.
The only thing I didn't like about this book was the characters didn't seem consistent throughout the book. The characters felt totally different in Part 1 compared to Part 2 when they begin their journey. However from Part 2 onwards, it was great to see the development and change in the characters.
Old Magic is an Historical, Adventure, Thriller, Paranormal and Romantic book! It has something for everyone.
★★★★.5

Marked by PC and Kristin Cast

2010-05-10T08:13:00.002+10:00

The House of Night series is set in a world very much like our own, except in 16-year-old Zoey Redbird's world, vampyres have always existed. In this first book in the series, Zoey enters the House of Night, a school where, after having undergone the Change, she will train to become an adult vampire--that is, if she makes it through the Change. Not all of those who are chosen do. It’s tough to begin a new life, away from her parents and friends, and on top of that, Zoey finds she is no average fledgling. She has been Marked as special by the vampyre Goddess, Nyx. But she is not the only fledgling at the House of Night with special powers. When she discovers that the leader of the Dark Daughters, the school's most elite club, is misusing her Goddess-given gifts, Zoey must look deep within herself for the courage to embrace her destiny--with a little help from her new vampyre friends.

I viewed Marked to be a school drama infused with vampyre mythology. I was captured by the parts of the book where bits and pieces of myths were told. However when it came to the main character Zoey's voice, I was annoyed at times and wanted to slap her (mentally). Many of the friends Zoey makes at the House of Night have practically the same personality. I felt some of the comments were rephrased for each person just so that each character could get a line and be known to the reader. Occasionally, they did provide me with a few laughs.

The build up to the conclusion was good. I liked the following of Zoey in her learning the House of Night background as this was made useful for the climax. The cliffhanger at the end was cruel because how can you NOT want to know what happens next?!

★★★.5

The Truth about Forever by Sarah Dessen

2010-05-07T00:19:00.004+10:00

Sixteen-year-old Macy Queen is looking forward to a long, boring summer. Her boyfriend is going away. She's stuck with a dull-as-dishwater job at the library. And she'll spend all of her free time studying for the SATs or grieving silently with her mother over her father's recent unexpected death. But everything changes when Macy is corralled into helping out at one of her mother's open house events, and she meets the chaotic Wish Catering crew. Before long, Macy joins the Wish team. She loves everything about, the work and the people. But the best thing about Wish is Wes—artistic, insightful, and understanding Wes—who gets Macy to look at life in a whole new way, and really start living it.

The Truth about Forever is the second book I've read from author Sarah Dessen. My first one was Just Listen and just like Just Listen, the Truth about Forever sucked me in from the first chapter. The author has really created some memorable characters. I don't know how she does it but in the 300-400 pages easily, there is so much depth and so many things going on but each of the issues are explored in detail. The book deals with family troubles, dealing with loss, discovering oneself, of love and of living life.

I liked the pacing/slice of life of this book. I read it over a span of a few days so it felt like I was living through every day with Macy. But thinking about it, if I had read in one seating I probably would have felt a bit bored due to the lack of those big events (which I find in paranormal reads). I liked Just Listen better but this will definitely not be the last Sarah Dessen book I'll be reading!

★★★★.5

My Amazon Kindle 2 ^^

2010-04-24T14:44:00.003+10:00

It only took 4 business days to get to Australia from the US, that's amazing! I read somewhere that the Kindle makes you read more and faster and it seems to be true. Ive tried the dictionary and am finding it really useful especially for classics and TV where there's a word I don't understand.

The next wave of excitement will come from my order of the Library skin from Decalgirl which will arrive in 2 weeks XD There's so many gorgeous designs It was so hard to pick. I can't wait for it to arrive and put it on the Kindle!

Happy reading!

I'd Tell You I Love You, But Then I'd Have to Kill You by Ally Carter

2010-04-21T23:30:00.005+10:00

The Gallagher Academy for Exceptional Young Women is a fairly typical all-girls school—that is, if every school teaches advanced martial arts in PE, chemistry always consists of the latest in chemical warfare, and everyone breaks CIA codes for extra credit in computer class. So in truth, while the Gallagher Academy might say it's a school for geniuses what they really mean is spies. But what happens when a Gallagher Girl falls for a boy who doesn't have a code name?

Cammie Morgan may be fluent in fourteen languages and capable of killing a man in seven different ways (three of which involve a piece of uncooked spaghetti), but the Gallagher Academy hasn't prepared her for what to do when she meets an ordinary boy who thinks she's an ordinary girl. Sure, she can tap his phone, hack into his computer, and track him through a mall without him ever being the wiser, but can she have a regular relationship with a regular boy who can never know the truth about her? Cammie may be an elite spy in training, but in her sophomore year, she's doing something riskier than ever—she's falling in love.

The Gallagher Girls book number 1 was a seriously fun and witty read. The main character Cammie was a great narrator, I loved reading her comical thoughts. The constant use of nicknames throughout the book made me feel like I had gotten to know the characters in less than 300 pages, although some aspects of the characters felt stereotypical and two dimensional. For example, the bookworm Liz, the clever one Bex and the hateful girl who turned out to be a pretty good friend Macey. These didn't distract from the enjoyment of the book but their actions were cringe worthy at times.

I expected some really cheesy stuff judging by the blurb but it wasn't too bad. Cammie meets this guy Josh, in the middle of a covert operations mission and falls in a new-to-her situation - harder than any mission. Hilarity follows as she keeps a recount of what she does to find out more about him which includes digging through his rubbish (and over-analysing) and obtain the emails he sends using the skills she has learnt at Gallagher Academy for Exceptional Young Women!

The highlight of the book was how at many points it made me laugh out loud while towards the end, there were some heart wrenching moments. Even with a complete change in the mood, it fit perfectly to lead onto the next book in the series Cross my Heart and Hope to Spy.

★★★★.5

Princess Bookie Contest Craze

2010-04-11T11:13:00.003+10:00

There is a HUGE contest craze at princess bookie where many contests end April 11 at midnight!

The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting

2010-04-09T11:38:00.005+10:00

Violet Ambrose is grappling with two major issues: Jay Heaton and her morbid secret ability. While the sixteen-year-old is confused by her new feelings for her best friend since childhood, she is more disturbed by her “power” to sense dead bodies—or at least those that have been murdered. Since she was a little girl, she has felt the echoes the dead leave behind in the world . . . and the imprints that attach to their killers.

Violet has never considered her strange talent to be a gift; it mostly just led her to find dead birds her cat had tired of playing with. But now that a serial killer has begun terrorizing her small town, and the echoes of the local girls he’s claimed haunt her daily, she realizes she might be the only person who can stop him.

Despite his fierce protectiveness over her, Jay reluctantly agrees to help Violet on her quest to find the murderer—and Violet is unnerved to find herself hoping that Jay’s intentions are much more than friendly. But even as she’s falling intensely in love, Violet is getting closer and closer to discovering a killer . . . and becoming his prey herself.

With a title like that, I expected mystery and horror. The Body Finder delivered this but I found it took the back seat towards the second half of the book. The relationship between Violet and her childhood and best friend Jay was the main event. Not that I'm complaining because their chemistry was apparent from the beginning and it was sweet reading about their love blossoming. I found the idea of Violet sensing dead people and the people who killed others through an 'echo' - a fascinating idea but I would have liked to know how she got these abilities (since her parents or relatives have no such case) at least vaguely.

The book alternates in chapters detailing what the murderer was up to and others things happening with Violet. The murderer chapters were twisted and creepy and these were cleverly intertwined throughout to make you speculate who the victim in each of their killings might be.

I loved the author's writing because there was so much imagery. Especially the first chapter which described Violet getting out of bed. It was amusing to read epic lines like 'But it was too late. She had awoken.'

Mystery, romance and a bit of high school drama thrown in and you have The Body Finder. I can't wait to get my hands on Desires of the Dead coming out in 2011!

★★★★.5

Awards

2010-04-07T15:11:00.006+10:00

Most Amazing Follower Award

Thanks to vvb32 Reads for this lovely award :D

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please note: award was created by Emma Michaels
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Thank you to each and every one of my followers! I don't have much content at the moment but I do hope to add more :)

hmsgofita @ Gofita's Pages
Holly @ Good Golly Miss Holly
Alexa @ Hooked on YA Books
BrittLit @ Reading Nook
Lea
Aye.Me?/Amy @ Addicted to Books
Cherry @ Cherry Mischievious
Shweta @ Book Journal
Lauren @ Lauren's Crammed Bookshelf
Mitchell J Kaplan
sara shalash
Eleni @ La Femme Readers
Karla @ Karla's Randomness
Jo Stapley @ Ink and Paper

Beautiful Blogger Award

Thanks to Once Upon a Bookcase for this beautiful award!!

The rules after you've received the award:
1. Thank and link to the person that gave you the award
2. Pass the award onto 15 bloggers you’ve recently discovered and think are fantastic
3. Contact said blogs and let them know they’ve won
4. State 7 things about yourself

I'm passing the award to 15 blogs I've discovered recently:
1. Emily's Reading Room
2. Lost for Words
3. Lost in Literature
4. Reading Keeps you Sane
5. Book Nymph
6. Squeaky Books
7. The Book on the Hill
8. Delightful Reviews
9. Today's Adventure
10. Bookish in a Box
11. The Serpentine Library
12. Today was a Fairytale
13. Oodles of Books
14. Inked Books
15. Star Shadow

7 Things about me:
1. New addict of the Discovery Channel
2. I love Foxtel IQ, bye bye advertisements
3. I have a house-shaped Winnie the Pooh clock
4. I can only play one full song (both hands, so it's not Mary Had a Little Lamb) on the piano
5. When I whistle, it sounds like when the wind tries to get through under doors
6. I use random items for bookmarks which includes receipts and rulers
7. I love coffee cake

Remake a Book Cover Contest

2010-03-23T17:54:00.008+11:00

This is my entry to Princess Bookie's Remake a Book Cover Contest! My photoshop skills aren't that great as you can see but it was a lot of fun to make XD

Summary of the book:

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.

Liar by Justine Larbalestier

2010-02-24T19:49:00.007+11:00

Micah freely admits that she's a compulsive liar. And that may be the one honest thing he'll ever tell you. Over the years she's duped her classmates, her teachers, and even her parents. But when her boyfriend, Zach, dies under brutal circumstances, the shock might be enough to set her straight. Or maybe not. Especially when lying comes as naturally to her as breathing. Was Micah dating Zach? Or was Sarah his real girlfriend? And are the stories Micah tells about inheriting a "family gene" real or are they something that only exists in her mind?
Breathtaking in its plotting, and narrated by one of the most psychologically complex young women to emerge since Sybil, Liar is a roller-coaster that will have listeners grasping for the truth. Honestly.

Honestly, I picked this book up because it was a new item at my library. Reading the back blurb didn't really interest me but I borrowed it anyway. To my surprise, when I read the first page I was immediately hooked!

There are three parts to the story: Telling the Truth, Telling the True Truth and The Actual Real Truth. The main character Micah tells her story. We read about her family history, what happened before and what happened after/at present time. She tells you that she is a compulsive liar and this makes you question the events that she explains, trying to figure out which parts she's telling is truth and which is lie (which is frustrating because they pile up). The author has cleverly constructed sentences so as to not give too much away and allow the imagination to run freely. I don't particularly like Micah because of her disturbing thoughts and characteristics (lying included), but her voice grabbed my attention from the very start.

The interesting thing is that the book could pretty much be a whole lie because of a certain supernatural element Micah talks about and the fact she mentioned she's a really big liar! Pushing that aside, it was thought-provoking that the whole 'supernatural thing' is viewed not as cool as many YA books make it out to be. The take on being a freak because of it and steps in controlling it make the supernatural element seem realistic and plausible.

I initially thought the Aussie cover was pointless (just a blob of funky red paint that spells out Liar) but after reading the book, I've come to like it because it's symbolic and fitting to the story.

I'm glad that I gave this book a chance and that the blurb did not give a 'secret' chunk of the book away. The twists and turns were interesting and although the writing was choppy by switching from past to present and vice versa, each event was like a piece of the puzzle. Once you finish the book, you get a fairly complete puzzle. (Hmm...Or a cleverly crafted lie?)

★★★★

Winter Reading Challenge complete!

The Battle of the Labyrinth by Rick Riordan

2010-02-18T11:50:00.004+11:00

Amazon product description: As an incoming freshman, Percy isn't expecting his high school orientation to be any fun. But when a mysterious mortal acquaintance appears, followed by demon cheerleaders, things quickly move from bad to worse.

In this fourth installment of the blockbuster series, time is running out as war between the Olympians and the evil Titan lord Kronos draws near. Even the safe haven of Camp Half Blood grows more vulnerable by the minute as Kronos's army prepares to invade its once impenetrable borders. To stop them, Percy and his demigod friends will set out on a quest through the Labyrinth-a sprawling underground world with stunning surprises at every turn. Full of humor and heart-pounding action, this fourth book promises to be their most thrilling adventure yet.

The fourth novel of Percy Jackson and the Olympians is the packed full of action and adventure while managing to develop the characters. The Battle of the Labyrinth was a really fun read filled with Greek mythology. In this installment we are introduced to a range of mythical beings, items and places which were intriguing and which for me, really added faces to the 'monsters' Percy and Camp Half-blood are facing and will have to face. I really liked the ongoing glimpses of Daedalus' life in Percy's dreams, the mention of events in previous books to refresh my memory and the revelation of the meaning behind the Oracle's foreboding words. Greek mythology aside, I learnt many other things (like what a cattle guard was!) The Battle of the Labyrinth was definitely a page turner!

★★★★★

Waiting on Wednesday

2010-02-10T23:51:00.008+11:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights anticipated upcoming releases.

Since their mother’s death, Carter and Sadie have become near strangers. While Sadie has lived with her grandparents in London, her brother has traveled the world with their father, the brilliant Egyptologist, Dr. Julius Kane.
"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights anticipated upcoming releases.

One night, Dr. Kane brings the siblings together for a "research experiment" at the British Museum, where he hopes to set things right for his family. Instead, he unleashes the Egyptian god Set, who banishes him to oblivion and forces the children to flee for their lives.

Soon, Sadie and Carter discover that the gods of Egypt are waking, and the worst of them--Set--has his sights on the Kanes. To stop him, the siblings embark on a dangerous journey across the globe--a quest that brings them ever closer to the truth about their family, and their links to a secret order that has existed since the time of the pharaohs.

Release date: 4th May 2010

I am currently reading Percy Jackson #4 by Rick Riordan and it's really engrossing! The Kane Chronicles: The Red Pyramid sounds great and I can't wait to read about Egyptian mythology!

Ice by Sarah Beth Durst

2010-02-03T20:14:00.006+11:00

Blurb from Goodreads.com

When Cassie was a little girl, her grandmother told her a fairy tale about her mother, who made a deal with the Polar Bear King and was swept away to the ends of the earth. Now that Cassie is older, she knows the story was a nice way of saying her mother had died. Cassie lives with her father at an Arctic research station, is determined to become a scientist, and has no time for make-believe.
Then, on her eighteenth birthday, Cassie comes face-to-face with a polar bear who speaks to her. He tells her that her mother is alive, imprisoned at the ends of the earth. And he can bring her back -- if Cassie will agree to be his bride.

That is the beginning of Cassie's own real-life fairy tale, one that sends her on an unbelievable journey across the brutal Arctic, through the Canadian boreal forest, and on the back of the North Wind to the land east of the sun and west of the moon. Before it is over, the world she knows will be swept away, and everything she holds dear will be taken from her -- until she discovers the true meaning of love and family in the magical realm of Ice.

ICE is a modern-day retelling of “East o’ the Sun, West o’ the Moon”. I've never read that fairytale but ICE is one of the most unique and strangest books I've ever read. It was an adventure that I never expected. The imagery is so strong in this book you can't help but picture the setting and transporting yourself there. The idea of Munaqsri, caretakers (every species has their own) who transfer and transport souls was an interesting and imaginative concept.

I like development of characters and romance, and unfortunately ICE disappointed me in that area. I read tonnes of reviews that this is a really romantic tale but I didn't find that to be the case. Cassie has to marry the Polar Bear King and he promises to help free her mother from the trolls. Instead of reading about Cassie getting closer and more comfortable with the Bear, we are told that weeks pass and she has adjusted to his company. At first, I was irked about the idea of a polar bear and a human but was also intrigued. If I could read more about the development in their relationship I might have been OK about the idea but instead I was constantly bothered by it throughout the book especially since they have a 'wedding night' out of the blue.

The Polar Bear, called 'Bear' by Cassie, wasn't fleshed out enough. I found him neutral - I didn't like or hate him. He rarely spoke and was missing for more than half of the book. The parts when he was able to turn human form and why, was not explained. Many characters were introduced but they were put aside after Part 1.

Cassie's journey became the focus of Part 2 and 3 of the book. I had to constantly remind myself that she was 18 years old. Her dialogue was occasionally awkward especially considering she has been in a secluded place without people her age for most of her life. Cassie was strong from start to finish, never giving up her goal which is admirable, but I never warmed up to her. She kept feeling sorry for herself when she herself was mostly to blame, in my opinion.

ICE felt like a rollercoaster (with a lengthy, boring part in the middle). It started off really good and then slow and then picked up for a short but great ending. I didn't see that type of ending coming so it was a surprise and finished the story off nicely.

★★★

Happy 101 Award ^_^

2010-01-11T21:50:00.008+11:00

My first award from hmsgofita at Gofita's Pages. Thanks!

The rules:
List 10 things that make you happy.
Try and do at least one of them today.

1. Adding to my wishlist at the Book Depository
2. Quiet reading time (usually after midnight when everyone's sleeping!)
3. Eating Lychees
4. Watching Movie Trailers
5. Watching Kdramas
6. Eating Frozen pineapple rings
7. Eating Popcorn
8. Drinking Coca Cola
9. Being at the Cinemas
10. Receiving Parcels in the Mail

I'll pass the award to:

Who, what, when, where, why

Out of the Blue book reviews

Bloggin' bout books

Reading Nook

Reader Rabbit

The Dark Divine by Bree Despain

2010-01-02T11:45:00.010+11:00

True Love's First Kill
Daniel looked up at me. His dark eyes searched my face. There was something different from those too-familiar eyes. Maybe it was the way the orange light from the streetlamp illuminated his pupils. Maybe it was the way he stared without blinking. His eyes made him look...hungry.

This book is amazing! I never knew what was coming and the paranormal element in this book. The blurb and cover gave no clue whatsoever about it and I loved this aspect.

The main character Grace is a 17 year old daughter of a pastor-father. She discovers a secret when Daniel, her childhood friend returns to her town. She tries to find answers of what happened between her brother Jude and Daniel many years ago and about the strange Markham monster happenings.

What I found unique about this book is the addition of God and a religious family. It was interesting to read how they dealt with things. I liked the character of Grace, she was a good girl but not to the point of being boring. The twist at the ending makes her important, so it isn't all the boys who get to be the 'heroes'/'cursed'.

The pacing was great. Despite being childhood friends, I like how Daniel and Grace became acquainted once again. There were so many sweet and heart pounding moments! There was a large amount of characters which was great but it was hard to get to know all of them. Don reminded me a lot of Lenny from Of Mice and Men!

I was kind of disappointed that Grace did not really communicate with her brother Jude (he must have felt alone and helpless and understandably angry at her at being with the person who harmed him). She spent a lot of time finding her answers from Daniel which probably added fuel to the fire in Jude losing control. However, the ending poses an opportunity for Grace redeeming herself and helping her brother in the sequel, so I will be satisfied!

In my opinion, the last 80 or so pages were very confusing. I had to keep reading back and replaying the events in my mind just to understand how events all fit together in a puzzle. There was so many layers being added on the already high cake and some plotholes were surfacing. The storyline twisted and turned with unexpectedness and surprise, I was constantly putting down the book to ask myself 'why did that happen? why didn't _____?' and thinking it through to try to find a logical explanation for what was going on. (I know there aren't always logical explanations for occurings but probably this happened because I loved the book so much that I wanted to get the gist of everything!!)

The Dark Divine is definitely a gripping debut novel and I seriously cannot wait for a sequel!

★★★★★

Graceling by Kristin Cashore

2009-12-25T16:08:00.009+11:00

In a world where people born with an exceptional skill, known as a Grace, are both feared and exploited, Katsa carries the burden of a skill even she despises:the Grace of killing.

As a Graced killer who has been able to kill a man with her bare hands from the age of eight, she’s forced to work as the king’s thug. Feared by the court and shunned by those her own age, the darkness of her Grace casts a heavy shadow over Katsa’s life.

Yet Katsa remains defiant, and when the King of Liend’s father is kidnapped she investigates, and stumbles across a mystery. Who would want to kidnap the old man, and why? And who was the extraordinary Graced man whose fighting abilities rivalled her own?

The only thing Katsa is sure of is that she no longer wants to kill. The intrigue surronding the kidnapping offers her a way out and little does she realise, when she takes it, that something insidious and dark lurks behind the mystery, something spreading form the shadowy figure of a one eyed king.

I loved the world the author has created as the setting (I dreaded the map at the beginning fearing it would make me confused but after finishing the book, I could almost draw it out on paper without looking to it!) The concept of Gracelings is very interesting I was looking forward to how they would be used.

A problem I found was the climax was built through suspense after reading Katsa's tiring journey for hundreds of pages and Bang! in a few sentences the person that needed taking care of was eliminated. In my opinion, what started as a fantasy adventure novel, turned into romance novel with a fantasy backdrop. I didn't really feel the connection between Katsa and Po. There was a lot of explaining about their feelings which I found myself wanting to skip and get into the adventure of the book. I can't see how Po likes Katsa...she's angry and agitated the majority of the time.

Other than that, Graceling was a very engaging read. I enjoyed the action, suspense and gasp-worthy moments.

★★★★

Darkness be my Friend by John Marsden

2009-12-12T11:25:00.014+11:00

There are only five of them left now. Ellie and her four friends, Lee, Homer, Kevin, and Fi, have reluctantly returned to New Zealand from Australia to lead more guerrilla attacks on the enemy. When they were rescued and airlifted to New Zealand, they thought the nightmare was over. But now they have been sent back to Wirrawee to guide a party of adult raiders on a planned sabotage of a strategic airfield. Something goes wrong; the adults never come back from the raid, and Ellie and her friends are again left on their own to do what they can--and must--to survive.

The 4th book in the tomorrow series, we continue the journey of Ellie and her friends and we see them deal with the violence and pain produced by the war. They continue to be in danger without the guidance of adults and it is an immersive and heart pounding adventure.

In this book I felt that the main character Ellie did so much recount of the past (before the war) for at least a quarter of the book. I felt she got angry really quickly and had strange mood swings which is understandable in her circumstances but I somehow sensed that it was a completely different character. However, recognition of the same Ellie as in the previous books picked up half way. The action occured in the last half of the book which was really good and made me fly through the pages wanting to find out what happens next. It was a rollercoaster of emotions I felt with the characters - fear, shock, anger and empathy.

A problem I had with this book, more than the previous books in the series, was the recount of Ellie's past. The author writes in a female point of view which must be hard but I find some of the things he writes aren't really what goes in the mind of females. For example, "Lots of boys in New Zealand wear shorts to school. They have a Seventh Form too and even some of the Seventh Formers wear shorts. It looks kind of silly, because they seem too old for it, but it gives you a good chance to perv on their legs" and reminiscing when Ellie and her best friend Corrie were children: "We tried to peep at the shearers through a little hole in the wall of their dunny".

Ellie learns a lot in this book, which is recounted in the Epilogue. Some of her actions at New Zealand at the beginning of the book I saw was unnecessary and uncharacteristic of her, but she regretted it and reflected that it was a bad move which was great to see.

The ending left me hanging and was quite a shocker so I can't wait for the next in the series, Burning for Revenge.

★★★★

1st in a Series Challenge

2009-12-09T01:32:00.016+11:00

This challenge is hosted at The Royal Reviews @ Blogspot. Sign up under Mr.Linky here.

Challenge Guidelines:
1. Anyone can join. You don't need a blog to participate.
2. There are four levels:
-- Curious - Read 3 novels that are first in a series.
-- Fascinated - Read 6 novels that are first in a series.
-- Addicted - Read 12 novels that are first in a series.
-- Obsessed - Read 20 novels that are first in a series.
3. Any genre counts.
4. You can list your books in advance or just put them in a wrap up post. If you list them, feel free to change them as the mood takes you.
5. Challenge begins January 1st thru December, 2010. Only books started on January 1st count towards this challenge.

I'm aiming for Fascinated - 6 firsts.

1. Poison Study by Maria Snyder - completed 28 March
2. The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting - completed 9 April
3. I'd tell you I love you but then I'd have to kill you by Ally Carter - completed 22 April
4. Marked by PC & Kristin Cast - completed 10th May
5. Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater - completed 16th May
6. Gossip Girl by Cecily von Ziegesar - completed 17th June

Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead

2009-12-07T16:02:00.010+11:00

St. Vladimir’s Academy isn’t just any boarding school - it’s a hidden place where vampires are educated in the ways of magic and half-human teens train to protect them. Rose Hathaway is a Dhampir, a bodyguard for her best friend Lissa, a Moroi Vampire Princess. They’ve been on the run, but now they’re being dragged back to St. Vladimir’s - the very place where they’re most in danger. . . .
Rose and Lissa become enmeshed in forbidden romance, the Academy’s ruthless social scene, and unspeakable nighttime rituals. But they must be careful lest the Strigoi - the world’s fiercest and most dangerous vampires - make Lissa one of them forever.

The author has created a unique and intriguing world of vampires. Vampire Academy sets up the series really well by introducing us to the academy and the main character Rose. There are two types of vampires that are in conflict and half vampires known as Dhampirs. This is way better than the usual vampires vs. weak humans!

The first chapter presents a lot of mystery to be solved. Lissa and Rose have run away from the Academy but the readers are left in the dark as to why. Even when they are dragged back to the academy, we still don't find out as they resume their previous daily lives.

Within the academy there is plenty of high-school-ish drama - jealousy, crushes, revenge, gossip - which made it seem like a human environment even though they are vampires. I loved this aspect because at times it made me feel like I was reading a paranormal novel but at other times realistic fiction that looks at teen issues.

In my opinion, the beginning was quite slow as the main character Rose mingled with peers and constantly worried about Lissa's developing depression, when comparing it with the relatively faster pace toward the end of the book. There was a few comments throughout of it being dirty to drink blood while doing it and incidents regarding it, which kind of turned me off a bit because it felt like unnecessary information (sounds twisted even if not mentioned). Also disturbing was some slitting wrists involved but not too graphic.

Of course there is the romance and the forbidden aspect of it explored in the book. The male interest Dimitri didn't really stand out for me in the beginning of the book probably due to the few scenes with Rose. By the end of the book, his actions regarding Rose and himself surprised me and heightened my interest of his relationship with Rose. Also, I didn't like Rose much but as a reader I could see the change in a playful and reckless Rose into Responsbile Rose by the end of the book which made me like her better. It was really refreshing to read about a kick-ass, confident and strong female lead, getting things done instead of staying idle or relying on others.

Another things I liked was how the history of vampires was included - St Vladmir's history, the terms to explain different types of vampires. It was explained by Ms. Mead very well and allowed me to be transported to and be part of the Vampire Academy world. The climax was really good and was an omg wth moment.

The ending is satisfying but leads to many questions and open ends! I'm ready to get stuck into the Vampire Academy world once again with Frostbite.

★★★★

Winter Reading Challenge

2009-12-02T00:51:00.023+11:00

This challenge is from The Royal Reviews @ Blogspot. Sign up under Mr.Linky here.

My List:
1. Read a book not set in the USA or England.
Darkness be my Friend by John Marsden - Completed December 12th.

2. Read a book with "Ice", "Frost", "Chill", "Cold" "Winter" in the title.
ICE by Sarah Beth Durst - Completed February 3rd.

3. For Valentine's Day, choose an author whose first or last name begins with L
Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery - Completed January 27th.

4. Choose a book that is not part of a series.
Liar by Justine Larbalestier - Completed February 24th.

5. Read a book written in the first-person point-of-view.
Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead - Completed December 7th.

6. Read a book with "Mr", "Mrs', "Miss" or "Ms" in the title.
Fantastic Mr Fox by Roald Dahl - Completed January 29th.

Challenge Guidelines:
1. Anyone can join. You don't need a blog to participate.
2. You must read all six books to complete the challenge.
3. Any book format counts.
4. You can list your books in advance or just put them in a wrap up post. If you list them, feel free to change them as the mood takes you.
5. Challenge begins December 1st thru to February 28th, 2010.

Deadly Little Secret by Laurie Faria Stolarz

2009-12-01T21:35:00.022+11:00

Some secrets shouldn't be kept...
Up until three months ago, everything in sixteen-year-old Camelia's life had been fairly ordinary: decent grades; an okay relationship with her parents; and a pretty cool part-time job at the art studio downtown. But when Ben, the mysterious new guy, starts junior year at her high school, Camelia's life becomes anything but ordinary. Rumored to be somehow responsible for his ex-girlfriend's accidental death, Ben is immediately ostracized by everyone on campus. Except for Camelia. She's reluctant to believe the rumors, even when her friends try to convince her otherwise. She's inexplicably drawn to Ben...and to his touch. But soon, Camelia is receiving eerie phone calls and strange packages with threatening notes. Ben insists she is in danger, and that he can help--but can he be trusted? She knows he's hiding something... but he's not the only one with a secret.

Deadly little secret is a fast paced book about Camelia, her meeting with the new boy rumored to have murdered his ex-girlfriend but who saved her from an accident, and her stalker who has been frightening her with photos of her at various locations and threats.

There are a number of male characters in Camelia's life which makes it tricky to guess which one person is the stalker. The author has used some chapters to write in the stalker's point-of-view and has cleverly written so that the reader cannot cross off anyone on the suspect list - John the soccer star, Ben the new guy who's rumored to have killed his ex-girlfriend, Matt the ex-boyfriend but now friend, Spencer the older guy who is in charge of the store where Camelia takes up pottery. The entries of the stalker gives me goosebumps and chills up my spine because they're obsessive and creepy.

Although quite a short book, the pace felt just right. There were no overly slow parts because even in the dullest moments, in the back of the mind of the reader, Camelia is in the realm of danger and the suspense keeps you hanging.

I read most of this book at night/past midnight and it was scary. There were many parts of the book which included phone calls, unlocked doors and chilling moments such as where Camelia searches for her mobile phone but there's no signal, and going to her room scared of what or who may be lurking. The author does a good job of transporting the reader there. You can't help but look around the room and check if doors are locked and the windows closed.

There is romance amidst the mystery but I felt that it wasn't really developed. The male character felt only like a puzzle who Camelia wanted to figure out. (she doesn't know much about him but feels an attraction every time her touches her...) I felt that friendship could've been a better start and maybe romance could play a bigger role in the second book?

The cover is really pretty but hasn't got to do much with the book, although the glowing hand does symbolise something, but not correctly (not to do with the main female character).

All in all, a quick and engaging read!

★★★★

Tynga's Reviews 300 Followers Giveaway

2009-11-28T09:29:00.005+11:00

Tynga Reviews has reached 300 followers. Congrats!

She is holding a big contest on to celebrate!

The prizes:

Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead

The Way of Shadows by Brent Weeks

Skinwalker by Faith Hunter

Nice Girls Don't Have Fangs by Molly Harper

Nice Girls Don't Date Dead Men by Molly Harper

Nice Girls Don't Live Forever by Molly Harper

Storm Born by Richelle Mead

Dark Visions by L.J. Smith

Fade Out by Rachel Caine

Soulless by Gail Carriger

Marked by P.C. Cast

Flesh Circus by Lilith Staintcrow

Hunting Grounds by Patricia Briggs

Playing With Fire by Gena Showalter

There will be a total of 4 winners

1st winner - 3 books of their choice

2nd winner - 2 books of their choice

3rd winner - 1 book of their choice

and the 4th winner will win a custom-made blog button she will create for them!

If she reaches 350 followers, another winner will be added.

The contest is international and Ends December 23rd.

Kissed by an Angel by Elizabeth Chandler

2009-11-27T00:02:00.030+11:00

A love beyond life...a danger beyond doubt.

In a romantic and suspenseful collection of the New York Times bestselling trilogy, love's unbreakable bonds are put to the test. When her boyfriend, Tristan, died, Ivy thought she'd lost everything, even her faith in angels.

But now she's discovered that he's her guardian angel - his presence so strong that she can feel the touch of his hand, the beat of his heart. Ivy needs Tristan now more than ever because he knows she's in terrible danger.

Only Ivy's guardian angel can save her now that his killer is after her. But if Tristan rescues Ivy, his mission on earth will be finished, and he must leave her behind forever. Will saving Ivy mean losing her just when he's finally reached her again?

Kissed by an Angel, begins with somewhat with a prologue involving a tragic event. The readers are then introduced to the story of Tristan's, the star swimmer of the school and Ivy's blossoming love story. I really love how the author developed their love story, the many sweet and romantic moments and how their love came to be. The book was written in first person which means there could be little explained about feelings of each individual character but I really felt the connection between Ivy and Tristan and could imagine their feelings.

A large number of characters are introduced and each one of them are memorable. Even Ivy's cat Ella had personality! It's great that relationships were built among the many characters in Kissed by an Angel unlike books where the main character usually has one or two best friends and the story only focuses on the main two characters with the others usually there just to move the story along.

The author also created an interesting premise of guardian angels. Tristan meets Lacey Lovitt, also an angel, and his angel 'powers' were gained and learned and not just 'obtained'. We go through the trials of his learning and his frustration at not being able to reach Ivy and tell her she is in danger.

The book was really suspenseful regarding Tristan's death as being not just an accident. The many characters also meant a few suspects which kept me guessing at who the culprit was. The murderer was very well disguised, in the murderer's scenes, you don't know whether this person is playing around, showing true feelings or trying to strike.

The ending was bittersweet but fit nicely. A really enjoyable book (it made the half hour stay at the train station fly by, when usually I'd be painfully watching the time)

★★★★★

Book Bound 100 Followers Giveaway

2009-11-25T20:12:00.004+11:00

Book Bound has reached 100 followers and in honour of this, holding an awesome contest! There will be 3 winners, the chance of buying books up to 20 bucks at The Book Depository. If they make it to 150 followers by the deadline, they will add another winner and at 200, another winner! It's open internationally and ends December 18th (in time before Christmas).

A Good Addiction Contest

2009-11-22T12:09:00.005+11:00

A Good Addiction is holding a contest for 1 of 5 copies of Fallen by Lauren Kate which is open internationally and ends December 6th.

The 2010 Young Adult Reading Challenge

2009-11-21T15:07:00.031+11:00

*There are four levels:

--The Mini YA Reading Challenge - Read 12 Young Adult novels.
--Just My Size YA Reading Challenge - Read 25 Young Adult novels.
--Stepping It Up YA Reading Challenge - Read 50 Young Adult novels.
--Super Size Me YA Reading Challenge - Read 75 Young Adult novels.

*Audio, eBooks, paper all count.
*Challenge begins January 1st thru December, 2010

The sign up is at J Kaye's Book Blog

I'll be aiming for Just My Size - 25 YA novels! I'll be choosing books to read randomly as I go.

1. The Truth about Forever by Sarah Dessen - Completed 6th May
2.Old Magic by Marianne Curley - Completed 25th May
3. Pretty Little Liars by Sara Shepard - Completed 23rd June
4. Flawless by Sara Shepard - Completed 26th June
5. Perfect by Sara Shepard - Completed 3rd July
6. Unbelievable by Sara Shepard - Completed 7th July
7. Princess for Hire by Lindsey Leavitt - Completed 9th July
8. Wicked by Sara Shepard - Completed 10th July
9. Killer by Sara Shepard - Completed 13th July
10. Heartless by Sara Shepard
11. Blue Moon by Alyson Noel - Completed 24th July
12. Shadowland by Alyson Noel - Completed 2nd August
13. Dark Flame by Alyson Noel - Completed 5th August
14. Nevermore by Kelly Creagh - Completed 8th October
15. Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins
Quite disappointing for me because the characters were not the ones I got to know in Book 1 and 2. The ending was okay because I guess the book being a dystopian was not likely to head for a very happy ending.
16. The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han - Completed 4th December
Got me seriously hooked on contemporary/coming of age genre. Loved it!
17. It's Not Summer Without You by Jenny Han - Completed 5th December
Explores the love triangle. I never thought I would switch ships but I have!
18. Alanna The First Adventure by Tamora Pierce - Completed 6th December
Excellent adventure book. Not so good with the fighting scenes but the journey and reading about Alanna grow up was the highlight.
19. The Lion, the witch and the wardrobe by CS Lewis
I gave the series a try since the new Narnia trailer looked so epic. I didn't really like the book. I felt disconnected with the characters and couldn't care less what happened to them!
20. Forever by Judy Blume - Completed 10th December
Not much of a plot for this one but quite informative about the issue of sex.
21. Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles
Addictive! The chemistry between Alex and Brittany was sizzling!
22. Rules of Attraction by Simone Elkeles
As awesome as the first. Loved the buildup of the relationship between Carlos and Kiara!!!
23. I am Number Four by Pittacus Lore - Completed 16th December
24. The Opposite of Invisible by Liz Gallagher - Completed 17th December
25. Shug by Jenny Han

Once upon a Bookcase Fallen News and Contest

2009-11-20T22:49:00.005+11:00

Once upon a bookcase has a contest running internationally for 5 copies of Fallen by Lauren Kate which ends November 21st.

A widget of the first chapter!!! The widget allows you to change the colour scheme too, how cool is that?

The Friday 56 - November 20

2009-11-20T20:19:00.004+11:00

The Friday 56 is an event hosted by Story Time with Tonya and Friends

Rules:
* Grab the book nearest you. Right now.
* Turn to page 56.
* Find the fifth sentence.
* Post that sentence (plus one or two others if you like) along with these instructions on your blog or (if you do not have your own blog) in the comments section of Story Time with Tonya and Friends
*Post a link along with your post back to Story Time with Tonya and Friends
* Don't dig for your favorite book, the coolest, the most intellectual. Use the CLOSEST.

Closest Book: Skinned by Robin Wasserman

"They registered the fabric on my legs - standard issue, hideously ugly BioMax thermo-sweats. Not that I needed thermo-regulation now, not when I had it built in, but's that's what they had, so that's what I wore, because it was easier than buying all new clothes, and my old clothes no longer fit."

Friday Finds - November 20

2009-11-20T20:00:00.013+11:00

Friday Finds is hosted by MizB at Should Be Reading which shares books you heard about or discovered this past week.

Summaries from Goodreads.com

Society of S by Susan Hubbard

"If you ever want to hide from the world, live in a small city, where everyone seems anonymous."

That's the advice of twelve-year-old Ariella Montero, who lives with her father in Saratoga Springs, New York, in a house haunted more by secrets than by memories. The Society of S traces her journey south, to Asheville and Savannah, and on to

Florida, as she learns that everything she knows about her family is a lie. When she finds her mother, she learns the truth: Ariella is a fledgling member of the Society of S.

S stands for Sanguinists: a sect of environmentalists concerned with ethics and human rights -- although they happen to be vampires. S also stands for synesthete: a person able to see words and letters in colors. The letter S is lucky for Sara, Ariella's mother, who gravitates to cities such as Savannah and Sarasota. But will it be lucky for Ariella?

World shaker by Richard Harland

Col lives on the Upper Decks of the juggernaut Worldshaker, a

mobile city as big as a mountain. He has been chosen as next Supreme Commander - but then a girl Filthy escapted from Below appeares in his cabin. 'Don't

let 'em take me!' she begs. Will he hand her over, or will he break all the rules? Col's safe, elite world is about to fall apart.

A brilliant steam punk fantasy that will hook you from the very first page, set aboard a huge ship in which the elites live on the top decks while the Filthies toil below. Strong writing, a vivid alternative world and characters you'll never forget

Thirst no.1 by Christopher Pike

Alisa has been in control of her urges for the five thousand years she has been a vampire. She feeds but does not kill, and she lives her life on the fringe to maintain her secret. But when her creator returns to hunt her, she must break her own rules in order to survive.

Her quest leads her to Ray. He is the only person who can help her; he also has every reason to fear her. Alisa must get closer to him to ensure her immortality. But as she begins to fall in love with Ray,

suddenly there is more at stake than her own life....

Summary from Goodreads.com + Amazon.com

Scatterheart by Lili Wilkinson

1814, London Town. Hannah Cheshire - wealthy and spoiled - has fallen from grace. Punishment: transportation to the colony of New South Wales.

Hannah Cheshire leads a privileged life in London, with fine clothes, servants and a handsome tutor. Then one day her father disappears and she is left to fend for herself. Not equipped for the real world she ends up penniless, and sentenced to transportation to the colonies for a crime she didn t commit...

Surfing Sunday - November 15

2009-11-15T16:29:00.021+11:00

Book Cover of SPELLS by Aprilynne Pike

Blurb from author's website:

Six months have passed since Laurel saved the gateway to the faerie realm of Avalon. Now she must spend her summer there, honing her skills as a Fall faerie. But her human family and friends are still in mortal danger--and the gateway to Avalon is more compromised than ever. When it comes time to protect those she loves, will she depend on David, her human boyfriend, for help? Or will she turn to Tamani, the electrifying faerie with whom her connection is undeniable?

SPELLS is the title of the sequel to Aprilynne Pike's WINGS. This one has flowers too! Again, there is also the water ripples (what do you call those that make outward circles?)

I Somehow feel this looks more real than the WINGS US cover. I always thought WINGS was a watercolor painting (I don't have a copy of the US but the UK version, so I'm not sure how it looks in real life) Nevertheless, the cover is gorgeous!!!

I wonder what the UK version of SPELLS looks like?

SPELLS is out May 4th 2010!

I'm rooting for David and Laurel but I have a feeling Tamani and Laurel will be together and David will get with Chelsea :*( I'm still really excited to read about Laurel's adventures though!

A favourite quote from Goodreads

"Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter, and those who matter don't mind." — Dr. Seuss

I love quotes that are meaningful and make me think!

Tynga's Reviews Top Commentator Giveaway

2009-11-15T16:15:00.011+11:00

Tynga's Reviews is having an international giveaway (thanks to bookdepository.com, weehay) for reaching a whooping 10k visitors!

It ends a random day between November 14 and December 15.

You earn an additional entry for every comment you post on each blog post (maximum 1 per blog post) The winner chooses a book from a list!

In My Mailbox - Week starting November 8

2009-11-12T16:34:00.007+11:00

In My Mailbox event by Kristi at The Story Siren

Contests:

Through Random House Newsletter - The Interrogator by JJ Cooper

Bought:

Percy Jackson and the Olympians Hardcovers

The Lightning Thief
The Sea of Monsters
The Titan's Curse
The Battle of the Labyrinth
The Last Olympian

So excited to get reading but so many textbooks to study from, and library books to read and return!

A BookLover's Diary First Giveaway

2009-11-11T12:41:00.008+11:00

A BookLover's Diary is celebrating over 150 followers, her birthday and Christmas with her first giveaway and it's international! There will be 4 winners with these up for choice:

1. The Blue Pen by Lisa Rusczyk (.pdf)
2. Spellbinder by Helen Stringer (Paperback: ARC edition)
3. The Girl Who Could Fly by Victoria Forester (Hardcover)
4. A Certain Slant of Light by Laura Whitcomb (Paperback)
5. Dreamhunter (Book 1 in the Dreamhunter Duet) by Elizabeth Knox (Paperback)
6. Devil’s Kiss by Sarwat Chadda (Hardcover)

7. The Book Thief by Markus Zusak (Paperback)
8. Give Up the Ghost by Megan Crewe (Hardcover)
9. My Soul To Take by Rachel Vincent (Paperback)
10. The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks (Hardcover)
11. The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan (Hardcover)
12. Shiver by Maggie Stiefvator (Hardcover)
13. The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold (Paperback; Movie Tie-in Edition)

14. Leviathan by Scott Westerfield (Hardcover)
15. Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher (Hardcover)
16. Fearless by Max Lucado (Hardcover)
17. Cracked Up To Be by Courtney Summers (Paperback)
18. One Lonely Degree by C.K. Kelly Martin (Hardcover)
19. I Can See You by Karen Rose (Hardcover)
20. Best Friends Forever by Jennifer Weiner (Hardcover)
21. Life as We Knew It by Susan Beth Pfeiffer (Paperback)
22. Graceling by Kristin Cashore (Hardcover)
23. Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles (Paperback)
24. How to Catch and Keep a Vampire by Diana Laurence (Paperback)

Ends November 30th!

The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

2009-11-11T02:38:00.023+11:00

Nobody Owens, known to his friends as Bod, is a perfectly normal boy. Well, he would be perfectly normal if he didn't live in a graveyard, being raised and educated by ghosts, with a solitary guardian who belongs to neither the world of the living nor the world of the dead.

There are dangers and adventures for Bod in the graveyard: the strange and terrible menace of the Sleer; a gravestone entrance that leads to the city of ghouls; friendship with a witch, and so much more, But it is in the land of the living that real danger lurks, for it is there that the man Jack lives and he has already killed Bod's family.

The only other Neil Gaiman book I read was Coraline. I picked up The Graveyard Book when I saw it listed on 2009 Teens' Top 10 on ALA.org.

I really enjoyed this book! Each chapter represented a period of Nobody Owens' life from a baby to 15 years of age. Each chapter is also like a mini-adventure and tied into all these chapters is the main plot where The Man Jack tries to finish what he started. The illustrations by Chris Riddell at the beginning of each chapter and on the front cover really set the mood.

The story was planned out really well, every single chapter had a bit of foreshadowing and use for the next chapters. There was a large range of characters who are memorable, my favourites being Liza Hempstock who starts of sounding like a terrible and wicked witch but turns out you cannot always trust what you hear, and of course, Bod. I really did not want Nobody Owens' story to end (to continue but not being able to read about it)! I would have cried but my eyes are dry staying up late reading it!

This book is one that will touch your heart! It's a blend of mystery, horror, action, friendship, love.

★★★★★

There's a movie planned for 2011! I wonder whether it's cartoon or live adaption? Nevertheless, I'm anticipating it!

Waiting on Wednesday - 11 November

2009-11-11T01:39:00.011+11:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights anticipated upcoming releases.

A prodigal son A dangerous love A deadly secret . . .

I stood back and watched his movements. Daniel had that way about him that could shut me down in an instant. . . . I kicked the gravel a couple of times and worked up my courage again. “Tell me . . . I mean . . . why did you come back? Why now, after all this time?”

Grace Divine, daughter of the local pastor, always knew something terrible happened the night Daniel Kalbi disappeared—the night she found her brother Jude collapsed on the porch, covered in blood. But she has no idea what a truly monstrous secret that night really held. And when Daniel returns three years later, Grace can no longer deny her attraction to him, despite promising Jude she’ll stay away.

As Grace gets closer to Daniel, her actions stir the ancient evil Daniel unleashed that horrific night. Grace must discover the truth behind Jude and Daniel's dark secret . . . and the cure that can save the ones she loves. But she may have to lay down the ultimate sacrifice to do it—her soul. - Synopsis from Author's website

After reading the sneak peak, I just knew I had to read the rest! There was already mystery behind Daniel, Grace and Jude's past. I like what interactions between Grace and Daniel happened so far and the overall atmosphere. I also like the inclusion of parents which seem to be wiped out (as in passed away, long distance away or just not there) in many novels I've read.

I pre-ordered a copy at The Book Depository and cannot wait until December 22!

Teaser Tuesday - November 10

2009-11-10T12:38:00.002+11:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. 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

From Neil Gaiman's The Graveyard Book:

"A big hairy C is for Cow, I think. With horns." -pg. 45

Library Loot

2009-11-09T01:01:00.002+11:00

Library Loot is a weekly event co-hosted by Eva and Marg that encourages bloggers to share the books they’ve checked out from the library.

Picked up Graceling by Kristin Cashore on Friday which I placed a hold for!
The cover is more amazing than the picture on the right! I'm sure the storywill be amazing too!
Read so many good things around the blogosphere about this so I'm super excited to get stuck into it.

I only check out about 6 books per 3 week period but hopefully that's going to change once exams are over as I'll have everyday to read and have more frequent library loot posts!

Witch & Wizard Contest at Cherry Mischievous

2009-11-08T23:32:00.003+11:00

The contest is open to international readers and ends November 13.

Cover blurb:

Your books, music and art - banned by the New Order.

You are holding an urgent and vital narrative that reveals the forbidden truth about these perilous times.

This is the astonishing testimonial of Whit and Wisty Allgood, brother and sister who were torn from their family in the middle of the night, slammed into prison, and accused of being a witch and wizard.

They are not alone in their terrifying predicament. Thousands of young people have been kidnapped; some have been accused; many others remain missing. Their fate is unknown, and the worst is feared - for the ruling regime will stop at nothing to suppress life and liberty, music and books, art and magic ... and the pursuit of being a normal teenager.

Most copies of this story have already been seized, shredded, or burned. Read this rare surviving edition and pass it along with care - before it's too late.

I love the cover especially the bright colours against the blue! The blurb also sounds amazing especially the last sentence!

Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick

2009-11-08T21:34:00.020+11:00

Summary (UK version back blurb):

Falling for the fallen...

I knew the names of all my classmates...except one. The transfer... He sat slouched one desk back, cool black eyes holding a steady gaze forward... His eyes sliced into me and the corners of his mouth tilted up. My heart fumbled a beat and, in that pause, a feeling of gloomy darkness seemed to slide like a shadow over me. It vanished in an instant, but I was still staring at him. His smile wasn't friendly, It was a smile that spelled trouble. With a promise.

I pre-ordered this on August 31, that shows how excited I was for this book. I had high expectations mostly due to the reviews I read. I really wanted to love this book and get sucked in but that wasn't the case, sadly. This book was a page-turner but for me, it was mainly due to the fact that I expected it to turn a different path.

Vee, Nora's bestie was the most annoying character I've ever come across due to her sexual jokes and bad decisions which lead to Nora worrying over her and putting herself in danger. But I guess that was needed to move the story along. The mysterious Patch, Nora's biology class partner, well, he's a character who you either like or dislike. I fell into the latter. He is too stalkerish (he appears in places where Nora happens to be, of which includes an empty underground route), arrogant and cocky, in my opinion. Nora's feelings for him kind of came out of the blue one night, which was a surprise to me after she rambles on how much he scares her throughout the book. I felt the romance was not developed enough, it was so sudden. It seemed she liked the danger of being with a bad boy and not Patch and his inner person/personality.

A redeeming point is that the mystery in this book was really great. I got a sense of fear when it came to a mysterious guy in the ski mask who stalks Nora. Questions pester you to be answered. Who is behind the mask? Why is she being followed? Suspense was weaved into the whole book and the last 50 or so pages kept me turning non-stop. The action scenes were few but they were written really well that I could picture the situations clearly, especially the climax scene towards the end.

Overall, this is quite a good quick read.

★★★