Swoon at Your Own Risk by Sydney Salter

Title: Swoon at Your Own Risk
Author: Sydney Salter
Pages: 360
Publisher: Graphia
Publication Date: April 5, 2010

It’s the summer before senior year and Polly Martin has sworn off boys. Who needs the hurt and confusion? Five recent breakups have left her with an unnatural knowledge of NASCAR, the ultimate hiker’s outfit, a student council position, the sixth highest score on the Donkey Kong machine at the mall, and a summer job at Wild Waves with ex #2 Sawyer Holmes.

Success seems a sure thing when Polly’s grandmother, the syndicated advice columnist, Miss Swoon, moves in for the summer. Polly almost doesn’t mind sharing a room with her little sister, Grace. Think of all the great advice she’ll get!

Everything is going according to plan except... Miss Swoon turns out to be a man-crazy septuagenarian! And then there’s Xander Cooper. If only he wouldn’t keep showing up at Wild Waves with his adorable cousins every afternoon — and what is he writing in that little notebook?

No advice column in the world can prepare Polly for the lessons she learns when she goes on a group camping trip (with three too many ex-boyfriends). Polly is forced to see people for who they are — a blend of good and bad qualities that can’t be reduced to a list or a snappy answer in a Miss Swoon column.

With her past endeavors with boys, Polly realizes she needs a break from boys. But throw in grammy Miss Swoon, hot skater dude Xander, and a trip with her exes, what's a girl to do? Only the granddaughter of Miss Swoon can tell! Ready, set, SPLASH!

Swoon at Your Own Risk is a fun, exuberant read full of growth and self-discovery. Although sometimes cliché and obvious, Swoon at Your Own Risk provokes a light, flowing nostalgia of summertime for the readers. Polly's situations are always laugh-out-loud hilarious and entertaining, keeping the novel bright and flowing.

The best main aspect in Swoon at Your Own Risk is Polly. At first, Polly seems unlikeable, selfish, and annoying, but as she deals with her issues and situations, she transforms into a funny, spunky, and fun character. The diverse spectrum of characters surrounding Polly brings Swoon at Your Own Risk to life and each and every character is special in their own way. Xander's part in Polly's life is extremely predictable, but that doesn't take away much from the plot. He's a cute, sensitive, and deep character. Xander is different from other YA love interests because he shows a more creative and different side of guys.

The tone of Swoon at Your Own Risk is established straight away with Polly's narration. In the beginning, readers may become a little frustrated with Polly's first-person narrative, but that's part of how she grows as a person. As the book progresses, readers will see subtle changes in Polly and her way of thinking, and this ultimately makes her a more down-to-earth character. Her previous experiences with boyfriends makes her fear of taking that leap of faith with Xander and later on, she may or may not overcome it.

Cheery, meaningful, and fun, Swoon at Your Own Risk takes you on a relaxing swim of realization, laughs, and of course, boys! It's perfect to remind you of summer and summer romances...but with a twist of Miss Swoon! A =)

The Bottom Line: Fun, fun, fun!

---Field Report---
Originality: 6/10
Ending: 8/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 9/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 93/100 (A)

Read more...

Author Uncovered: Heather Davis (Author Interview)

Amy, a sixteen-year-old recovering from an abusive relationship, moves to the country to start a new life with her aunt–all she wants is for everything to be different. In the clearing at the back of Aunt Mae’s property, she makes an amazing discovery—Henry, a boy stuck in the endless summer of 1944. Henry and his world become Amy’s refuge and she begins to learn that some moments are worth savoring. But when the past and present come crashing together, both of them must find the courage to face what is meant to be, even if it means losing each other forever.

---

Who is your favorite character from The Clearing?
That’s a hard one to pick, but I loved writing Aunt Mae.

Why did you choose to make The Clearing revolve around Amy and Henry as a boy stuck in 1944?
I’ve always been fascinated with “The Greatest Generation,” those people who lived through WWII.

Amy is a very unique character in The Clearing. Is she based on any real-life person?
Amy is every girl. She’s a character composed of many people, including myself.

Personally, what's your opinion on abusive relationships such as Amy's with her ex-boyfriend?
Often, women and girls feel pressured to stay with emotionally and physically abusive partners. It takes real strength and courage to break away and begin your life again.

What was the message that you tried to get across to your readers with The Clearing?
I think The Clearing’s message is that you can begin anew after your life implodes. That even in the midst of collapse and heartbreak there is hope.

The premise and concept of The Clearing is quite unique. How did the idea bloom? I was inspired to write The Clearing because I moved to a small town in the North Cascades, like Amy did, where nothing was what I expected it to be. It brought me to writing though, and every day as I sat as my desk, I gazed out a sliding glass window toward my neighbor's forty acre field. At the back of the property was a red barn with cows and horses gazing in front. Some days, the mist on that field got so thick the barn would disappear. I would wonder about what was "really" on the other side of that mist, and then one day, Henry came walking out. Amy was a harder character to write, but after suffering a life implosion that brought me back to the city a single girl, older and wiser, I knew what her journey had to be.

The cover is really very well done. Did you have any input in it?
The cover artist did a beautiful job. My editor, agent, and I all had suggestions, but it was the artist’s vision that really brought the cover to life.

What's the most interesting thing a reader has ever said to you?
I get lots of interesting letters from readers. Often they are writing to tell me how they connected to the story, which always interests me.

What’s up next for you book-wise?
My next book is WHEREVER YOU GO, which comes out from Harcourt in Fall 2011. It’s about a girl caring for her grandfather with Alzheimer’s and the ghost that haunts them both.

Book you've faked reading:
Moby Dick – I only read half of it in college, but I did make up for that by re-reading a few years ago.

Book you've bought for the cover:
I buy every book for the cover! (And the first page.)

Book you're an evangelist for:
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak.

Anything else you'd like to add?
Thanks for doing the interview, Regie.

Read more...

The Clearing by Heather Davis

Title: The Clearing
Author: Heather Davis
Pages: 228
Publisher: Graphia
Publication Date: April 12, 2010

Amy, a sixteen-year-old recovering from an abusive relationship, moves to the country to start a new life with her aunt–all she wants is for everything to be different. In the clearing at the back of Aunt Mae’s property, she makes an amazing discovery—Henry, a boy stuck in the endless summer of 1944. Henry and his world become Amy’s refuge and she begins to learn that some moments are worth savoring. But when the past and present come crashing together, both of them must find the courage to face what is meant to be, even if it means losing each other forever.

Recovering from an abusive relationship, Amy goes to her great aunt Mae's house to run from her problems and start anew. When she discovers Henry's life on the other side of the clearing, she is immediately drawn to his world and the inexplicable connection they share. But their relationship might not last; for Henry's situation may be far too complicated to hold their bond. Their hearts are on the line and their feelings for each other are quickly growing. It may be too late to avoid heartache.

The Clearing is a beautiful, bittersweet book that portrays the hardships and obstacles that people like Amy and Henry have to go through, just for love. It focuses on perfectly capturing the essence of love and showing its different sides. The Clearing shows the ups and downs, and also depicts how people can mistake 'infatuation' or 'like' for love.

The concept of The Clearing is extraordinary yet convincing. The idea of the mist in the clearing separating two different times; present and 1944 stands out well and is solidified with the realistic references in the book. The Clearing has a simplistic backdrop that gives the plot a more intimate and rustic feel to it. Readers will be completely interlocked and captivated with the charming countryside where Amy and Henry reside.

Amy's voice as a narrator is clear and concise with a comfortable tone. Amy has been through a lot, and readers will resonate with her feelings and experiences as Amy strives to get over her abusive relationship. Henry, from a completely different time, is a well-established character from the very beginning and yearns for something different...something only Amy can give. Their relationship coincides with Henry's family's developing revelation of the situation they're in and this further complicates things between their boundaries. They won't get all of what they want, but they do get to experience something very valuable; love. Even if their romance is quite rushed, it's easy to overlook that tainting aspect and focus on the subtle and important messages in The Clearing.

Amy's situation is uncommon but the reader will become in tune with her situation because of the normalities that are present in the novel. Amy deals with school, trying to fit in, friends, and family problems just like many other teens today. Henry and his world serves as an escape from her unhappy reality which ultimately elaborates on the concept of reality and fantasy comparison.

Simple, beautiful, and compassionate, The Clearing is full of depth and simple messages that readers may have forgotten. It's reminiscent of quiet summer nights, the lovely countryside, and the slight paranormal tinge. The Clearing is a magical and thought-provoking read that will make readers truly question their morals and beliefs of love. A+ =)

The Bottom Line: Breathtaking, simple, and balanced.

---Field Report---
Originality: 9/10
Ending: 8/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 97/100 (A+)

Read more...

Win The Clearing, The Reason, and Swoon at Your Own Risk - Publisher Week (8)

Hey again peeps! You guys know that I'm hosting the Graphia imprint this week right? So to kick off the week, they're letting me host a contest for The Clearing, The Reason, and Swoon at Your Own Risk! Fill in the form below to enter.

Rules:
-Open only to US Residents (But if you have someone who can send it to you, that's okay as well)
-This contest will end on May 20th at 4pm (GMT+8) unless this contest doesn't meet at least 40 entrants...then, it will be extended.
-I will use The Contest Winner Picker for picking the winners for this contest.
-Contest Policy applies.

Read more...

Publisher Week (8) - Graphia Week!!!

Hey folks! This is part of my Author/Publisher Week feature and this week, I'm going to be hosting not an author, but a publisher! The publisher is an imprint of Harcourt called Graphia! It's an amazing imprint that going to be releasing three awesome books this year: The Clearing by Heather Davis, The Reason by Marley Gibson, and Swoon at Your Own Risk by Sydney Salter! I'm so glad to be hosting these three amazing books! Here's how this week is going to roll:

Monday - Kick-off Post, Kick-Off Contest
Tuesday - Review of The Clearing, Interview with Heather Davis
Wednesday - Review of Swoon at Your Own Risk, Interview with Sydney Salter
Thursday - Interview with Editor Julie Tibott
Friday - Review of The Reason, Interview with Marley Gibson

I'm going to be updating this post a lot with the links for all of the posts ^above^. Just come here if you need to find anything relating to Graphia Week!

***For Authors and Publishers*** If you're an author/publisher who wants to be on Author/Publisher Week, just email me at regietc@gmail.com! I'd be happy to talk to you about it!

Read more...

Wish Stealers: Review, Interview, and Giveaway!!!

Title: Wish Stealers
Author: Tracy Trivas
Pages: 288
Publisher: Aladdin
Publication Date: January 26, 2010
The day before her first day in middle school, Griffin Penshine is tricked into accepting a box of lucky pennies from a mysterious old woman. A note in the box explains that the coins are all wishes stolen from a fountain more than 70 years ago. Griffin is now unwillingly a Wish Stealer, and in order to avoid the fate that accompanies that title, she must return the pennies to the original owners or to someone who has a similar desire. Short chapters keep the story moving, and an inspirational quote or adage, often about wishes or dreams, follows each one. Unfortunately, Griffin learns that she must return the wishes from a too-convenient chapter in a book that practically falls into her lap. More successful are her experiences as she navigates slights by the school's popular crowd and organizes a fundraiser to collect money for saving rainforests. While the wish-stealing theme is better developed in Frances Hardinge's Well Witched (HarperCollins, 2007), Trivas's accessible novel encourages readers to be proactive in following their dreams and in helping others to fulfill their wishes.

The Wish Stealers is an inspiring book that everbody would absolutely adore. Although it's middle grade, many will still find Wish Stealers to be a valuable book on lessons. The mere concept of Wish Stealers is extremely original and does pertain to the lesson in which Trivas tries to portray here.

Griffin is a unique protagonist that deals with a lot of issues here. Griffin has to deal with the 'bullies' that try to hurt her but she stands strong and makes her decisions. Trivas does really deliver different and meaningful messages in Wish Stealers; decision between right and wrong, being happy with who you are, and friendship. This, combined with the paranormal concept, makes for a beautiful, simplistic read that will hook many readers of all ages!

Trivas has written an inspiring novel that takes us on a journey of self-discovery and adventure. Wish Stealers is one book that people will never forget!

---

Who is your favorite character from Wish Stealers?
I love Grandma Penshine—she has lived such a good life and is so grounded, kind, cool, and wise. She’s an artist and “mixes paints as if mixing sacred medicine.” But of course I love Griffin—it’s her journey and she is brave and hangs tight and steady when things get tough. It’s a tie between Griffin and Grandma Penshine.

What motivated you to write Wish Stealers?
I wanted to write a book about those people in the world who are “Wish Stealers.” People who try to shoot down a dream, remind people of failure rates, and negative statistics. These “Wish Stealers” can even be family members or good friends, but at certain moments they project all their own fears of failure onto another people's delicate wishes. I wanted to remind people to protect their dreams and wishes and keep focusing on what is possible…

The premise of Wish Stealers seems really unique and interesting. What gave you the idea for it?
When I first moved to Los Angeles in my early 20’s filled with vague dreams of a fulfilling creative career, I slammed head first into something awful—WISH STEALERS–strangers, acquaintances, even friends who were thrilled to spout out how many people fail at creative careers. They stated what the odds are for failure, why back up plans should come first, and how being realistic was more important than dreaming. I scrawled on a Post-it note, after one particularly negative conversation: “Mr. Wunderkiller! Wish Stealer!” I underlined the words three times and threw the Post-it in a drawer. The idea of physically stealing coins out of a fountain, and the larger metaphor of people who shoot down a dream fascinated me. The idea for THE WISH STEAELRS was born.

What do you see as your strengths and weaknesses as an author?
Great question and a hard one too! I love creating characters and giving them quirks and personality. I also like to create books that move--that keep the reader interested. The thing I am working most on is “boy dialogue!” My husband helps me so much with this. In the acknowledgments I thank him for cutting “any and all of Garrett’s dialogue that sounded like a 47-year-old man in a tweed jacket!”

What's the most interesting thing a reader has ever said to you?
I love to hear most what readers loved in my books or what didn’t work for them. Everybody is so different with such a huge range of opinions---I find a reader’s reaction fascinating, especially after spending so much time alone writing a book.

How is do you feel about being a 10'er debut?
I am happy and grateful. I think middle-grade fiction books have the power to make the most impact on a person’s life. When I was little I read the Anne of Green Gables series over and over again. Anne’s humor, bravery, and feminist spirit really influenced me in a positive way. Through her character I saw girls as being strong, smart, capable, fun, and adventurous. One of my greatest wishes for The Wish Stealers is for a reader to connect with Griffin and be inspired by her courage.

Book you've faked reading:
Thomas Pynchon’s Crying of Lot 49…We had a book club at our place and it turns out nobody finished it—!

Book you've bought for the cover:
Poemcrazy: Freeing Your Life with Words by Susan G. Wooldridge. It’s a book of poetry exercises and the cover is gothic, romantic, and dadaesque—I love it! I literally spotted the cover on a shelf in the bookstore and bought it—it turned out to be an amazing poetry book too.

Book you're an evangelist for:
The China Study—by T. Colin Campbell and Thomas Campbell III. It is the most comprehensive nutritional study ever done…by the end of the book you’ll want to sign legal papers to be a vegetarian forever—for your body and for the planet.

Anything else you'd like to add?
A big thank you--your blog is inspiring and fantastic! There are so many distractions out there, so a blog that connects people who love to read is a gift.

---

Hey guys, I've been given a chance to give away FIVE copies of Wish Stealers! This is a US only contest and my Contest Policy applies! Just comment below with your email address if you'd like a chance to win Wish Stealers!!!

This contest ends May 1st!

Read more...

Contest: TWO Copies of Siren by Tricia Rayburn!!!

So, in honor of my three-post feature for Siren by Tricia Rayburn, I'm hosting this giveaway! It's a fabulous book and if you want, you can take a look at my review and my interview with Tricia! Fill in the form below to enter.

Seventeen-year-old Vanessa Sands is afraid of everything—the dark, heights, the ocean—but her fearless older sister, Justine, has always been there to coach her through every challenge. That is, until Justine goes cliff-diving one night near the family’s vacation house in Maine, and her lifeless body washes up on shore the next day.

Though her parents hope that they’ll be able to find closure back in Boston, Vanessa can’t help feeling that her sister’s death wasn’t an accident. After discovering that Justine was keeping a lot of secrets, Vanessa returns to Winter Harbor, hoping that Justine’s boyfriend might know more. But Caleb has been missing since Justine’s death.

Soon, it’s not just Vanessa who’s afraid. All of Winter Harbor is abuzz with anxiety when another body washes ashore, and panic sets in when the small town becomes host to a string of fatal, water-related accidents in which all the victims are found, horrifically, grinning from ear to ear.

Vanessa turns to Caleb’s brother, Simon, for help, and begins to find herself drawn to him. As the pair try to understand the sudden rash of creepy drownings, Vanessa uncovers a secret that threatens her new romance—and will change her life forever.

Rules:
-Open to peeps in the USA!
-This contest will end on May 18th at 4pm (GMT+8) unless this contest doesn't meet at least 35-40 entrants...then, it will be extended.
-If you are under 13 years old, you must have permission from your parents or guardian.
-I will use The Contest Winner Picker for picking the winners for this contest.
-I have the right to extend or close this contest without any notice.
-I am not to be held responsible for any lost or damaged items

Good luck!

Read more...

Author Uncovered: Tricia Rayburn (Author Interview)

Seventeen-year-old Vanessa Sands is afraid of everything—the dark, heights, the ocean—but her fearless older sister, Justine, has always been there to coach her through every challenge. That is, until Justine goes cliff-diving one night near the family’s vacation house in Maine, and her lifeless body washes up on shore the next day.

Though her parents hope that they’ll be able to find closure back in Boston, Vanessa can’t help feeling that her sister’s death wasn’t an accident. After discovering that Justine was keeping a lot of secrets, Vanessa returns to Winter Harbor, hoping that Justine’s boyfriend might know more. But Caleb has been missing since Justine’s death.

Soon, it’s not just Vanessa who’s afraid. All of Winter Harbor is abuzz with anxiety when another body washes ashore, and panic sets in when the small town becomes host to a string of fatal, water-related accidents in which all the victims are found, horrifically, grinning from ear to ear.

Vanessa turns to Caleb’s brother, Simon, for help, and begins to find herself drawn to him. As the pair try to understand the sudden rash of creepy drownings, Vanessa uncovers a secret that threatens her new romance—and will change her life forever.

---

Who is your favorite character from Siren?
I love them all, but Vanessa’s probably my favorite. I love how she struggles to be brave—how she HAS to be brave—despite fearing pretty much everything. I also really like Paige and Raina. Paige is so sweet and innocent and friendly, and Raina, her mother, is the exact opposite. I especially enjoyed writing their dialogue!

Why did you choose to contrast Justine and Vanessa in terms of fearlessness?
I liked the idea of Vanessa believing she could only survive scary situations with her fearless older sister by her side, and then learning the hard way that she could do it on her own. I also liked the idea that you can spend years thinking you know absolutely everything about a person…only to find out you don’t know nearly as much as you thought.

Did you base any of your characters on real people?
Besides Vanessa, whose fears were inspired by some of my own, not so much. This was a first for me, as almost every character in the Maggie Bean books is based on someone I know or knew growing up.

What part does the sea play in your life?
I’ve lived near water most of my life, except for the four years I spent surrounded by mountains in college. And during that time, I always loved going home for breaks so that I could go to the beach—even in the middle of winter! Now I’m lucky enough to live a short walk from a beautiful bay, and even have views of the water from our second-floor windows.

Are you as fearless as Justine? Or are you more like Vanessa?
I’m definitely more like Vanessa. I don’t like heights, I dread flying, and I slept with a nightlight until I was in high school. And despite having spent a LOT of time in and around water since childhood, I’ve developed a relatively new fear of creatures of the deep. This actually helped spark the idea for Siren.

Which character do you resonate most with, in Siren?
Vanessa, for all of the above reasons!

What was the message that you tried to get across to your readers with Siren?
I mostly want my readers to have a fun, gripping, exciting read, but if they come away with anything else, I hope it’s that sometimes, the only way to get over a fear is to face it head-on.

What would you have done if you were in Vanessa's place?
I hope I would’ve done exactly what Vanessa does! It’s hard to be sure, though…and I hope I never have to find out!

The cover is very beautiful. Did you have any input in it?
I’m so happy you like the cover! I do, too. That was all Egmont, my publisher. They had the idea of a watery face with silvery eyes from the day they bought the book, and I’m thrilled with how it turned out.

What's the most interesting thing a reader has ever said to you?
I’ve received several emails and letters from Maggie Bean readers who said that Maggie’s story (about an overachieving, overweight ‘tween who tries to shed pounds while preparing to try out for her school’s synchronized swim team) either helped them feel better about themselves OR realize that a little kindness goes a long way. Which is just what I hoped Maggie’s story would do!

What’s up next for you book-wise?
Ruby’s Slippers, about a sweet ‘tween' who moves from Kansas with her old-fashioned mother to live with her hipper grandmother in Coconut Grove, Florida, will be out right after Siren. And in the meantime, I’m working on the Siren sequel as well as a fun new middle-grade idea.

Book you're an evangelist for:
The Hunger Games! I read it in one sitting, and my personal copy continues to make the rounds among friends and family.

Anything else you'd like to add?
Thanks so much for reading Siren—and for inviting me to participate in such a great interview!!!

Read more...

Siren by Tricia Rayburn

Title: Siren
Author: Tricia Rayburn
Pages: 352
Publisher: EgmontUSA
Publication Date: July 13, 2010

Seventeen-year-old Vanessa Sands is afraid of everything—the dark, heights, the ocean—but her fearless older sister, Justine, has always been there to coach her through every challenge. That is, until Justine goes cliff-diving one night near the family’s vacation house in Maine, and her lifeless body washes up on shore the next day.

Though her parents hope that they’ll be able to find closure back in Boston, Vanessa can’t help feeling that her sister’s death wasn’t an accident. After discovering that Justine was keeping a lot of secrets, Vanessa returns to Winter Harbor, hoping that Justine’s boyfriend might know more. But Caleb has been missing since Justine’s death.

Soon, it’s not just Vanessa who’s afraid. All of Winter Harbor is abuzz with anxiety when another body washes ashore, and panic sets in when the small town becomes host to a string of fatal, water-related accidents in which all the victims are found, horrifically, grinning from ear to ear.

Vanessa turns to Caleb’s brother, Simon, for help, and begins to find herself drawn to him. As the pair try to understand the sudden rash of creepy drownings, Vanessa uncovers a secret that threatens her new romance—and will change her life forever.

Always living on the edge, Justine is the complete polar-opposite of Vanessa. While Justine is adventurous, outgoing, and spontaneous, Vanessa is shy, practical, and afraid. When Justine dies cliff-diving, she tries to figure out what happened that unfortunate night with the help of Simon. Little does she know that her sister--and Winter Harbor--hold many fearful secrets that can endanger everybody's life. Will facing her fear be enough to save Winter Harbor? Or will she stay hiding in fear? She has to decide. Her decision will affect all of Winter Harbor...including Simon.

Siren is a bittersweet, dangerous, magical read that will never cease to surprise; much like the sea itself. In Siren, the bond between the Vanessa and Justine is strong, but both have insecurities that affect their perception of themselves and each other. The mystical and enigmatic elements, linked with the romance in Siren, creates a very intense, yet effortless atmosphere that flows throughout the novel.

Vanessa is a compelling and complicated three-dimensional protagonist that is pulled out of her shell once her sister dies. The two sisters; Justine and Vanessa, are a study of contrasts that completely fit together. Even when they are so different, their connection is seemingly unbreakable. After Justine's death, Vanessa copes with her grief through her shared connection with Simon. The romance aspect of Siren doesn't overpower the mystery and sense of urgency in Siren, but rather, it develops slowly as the plot unravels itself and as Simon and Vanessa make sense of their feelings for each other.

The emotional turmoil in Siren is portrayed continuously through Siren's progression. Grief, death, and insecurity are all very visible themes in the novel and the concept of fear is greatly emphasized with every secret, and every anomaly that is revealed. Vanessa's choices and decisions impact not only her, but everyone else. And she has to overcome her fear in hopes of discovering the deep, dark, and unimaginable secrets that her sister left in her wake.

In the midst of searching for answers, Vanessa is able to meet new people and make friends like Paige. Paige doesn't know about Justine and doesn't judge Vanessa right away, and this provides her with a relief from all of the grief and anxiety that she has to deal with. Paige is a supportive character and a real friend to Vanessa. She plays a big part in a secret that even she is unaware of.

Rayburn not only keeps readers on the edge with Siren, but she evokes so much emotion through her words, keeping Siren perfectly balanced. Its build up of suspense and mystery will explode into a fusion of an electrifying and breathtaking climax that will unequivocally satisfy the readers' craving for a beautiful yet simple ending. A+ =)

The Bottom Line: Siren gives a simple, beautiful message with the infusion of mystery, and a paranormal touch.

---Field Report---
Originality: 10/10
Ending: 10/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 100/100 (A+) !!!This is one of the TEN books that hold the title: The Holy Grail - Beholder of the Perfect 100!!!

Read more...

Author Uncovered: Courtney Summers

Hi guys! Today I have Courtney Summers here today! She's the author of Cracked Up to Be and Some Girls Are. Both of which are fantastic books! You can see my review of Cracked Up to Be here and my review of Some Girls Are here.

Climbing to the top of the social ladder is hard--falling from it is even harder. Regina Afton used to be a member of the Fearsome Fivesome, an all-girl clique both feared and revered by the students at Hallowell High... until vicious rumors about her and her best friend's boyfriend start going around.

Now Regina's been "frozen out" and her ex-best friends are out for revenge. If Regina was guilty, it would be one thing, but the rumors are far from the terrifying truth and the bullying is getting more intense by the day. She takes solace in the company of Michael Hayden, a misfit with a tragic past who she herself used to bully. Friendship doesn't come easily for these onetime enemies, and as Regina works hard to make amends for her past, she realizes Michael could be more than just a friend... if threats from the Fearsome Foursome don't break them both first.

What's the worst thing you've ever done?

When "Perfect" Parker Fadley starts drinking at school and failing her classes, all of St. Peter's High goes on alert. How has the cheerleading captain, girlfriend of the most popular guy in school, consummate teacher's pet, and future valedictorian fallen so far from grace?

Parker doesn't want to talk about it. She'd just like to be left alone, to disappear, to be ignored. But her parents have placed her on suicide watch and her counselors are demanding the truth. Worse, there's a nice guy falling in love with her and he's making her feel things again when she'd really rather not be feeling anything at all.

Nobody would have guessed she'd turn out like this. But nobody knows the truth.

Something horrible has happened, and it just might be her fault.

---

How did you come to write about such contradicting/controversial issues?
Truthfully, they just happen to be the kind of things I am interested in writing about! When I read a novel, I want to be pushed, I want to be forced to respond, whether positively or negatively. I never want to walk away from something feeling indifferent about it. I don't want people to feel indifferently about what I've written either--I want them to be pushed too. Whether or not I succeed at this will always depend on the reader, but wanting to push is what drives each sentence forward.


Parker is a unique character... Is she based on anyone?
Thank you! Parker is not based on anyone I know personally. I don't base my characters off of the people I know. Parker was inspired by my interest in writing an abrasive female character.

Did you have to do any research for CUTB and SGA?
Cracked Up to Be and Some Girls Are were not research heavy. When Some Girls Are had a different ending, I had to look into some legal stuff (can't get specific because even though the ending has changed, it might still be a give!), but other than that, neither book was intensive by way of research.

Who or what has inspired you to become an author?
I have always loved telling stories. I spent a lot of my teen years trying to figure out which medium best enabled me to do that. I dabbled in photography, I acted and was the vice president of our local theatre guild, I wrote screenplays. When I was 18, I realized I wanted to write novels. Writing was what I wanted to do, how I wanted to tell the stories going on in my head. And that was was when I actively started pursuing publication.

How does it feel, knowing your books are in bookstores?
It's a wonderful feeling, but very, very unreal! I don't think I will ever quite get used to it and I kind of hope I never do. :)

Was your road to publication difficult? Why or why not?
Cracked Up to Be was my fourth novel. The three before it were written, queried and then rejected. I have hundreds and hundreds of rejections that I've saved. After many, many nos, I got a yes. My road to publication was difficult, yes, but not unique. Publishing is a really tough and ultimately subjective business. And I'm grateful that I got that yes, since it was never guarantied.

And lastly (this is my favorite question!)... Why did you name the main character of SGA Regina (my name as well =D)?
Hee! Well, first of all, because Regina is a GREAT NAME (as you yourself can attest!). I have always really, really liked it. I am a big fan of Regina Spektor as well. Actually, in way earlier drafts of Some Girls Are, I wanted to have a female character named Reggie, just because I felt that was what she needed to be called. So I did! Initially, everyone called her Reggie, unless something serious was happening, and then they called her by her full name--Regina. Eventually, I took out all the Reggies and now she only goes by Regina. :)

Anything else you want to say?
Thank you so much for the interview! I really appreciate it!

Read more...

Some Girls Are by Courtney Summers

Title: Some Girls Are
Author: Courtney Summers
Pages: 256
Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin
Publication Date: January 5, 2010

Climbing to the top of the social ladder is hard--falling from it is even harder. Regina Afton used to be a member of the Fearsome Fivesome, an all-girl clique both feared and revered by the students at Hallowell High... until vicious rumors about her and her best friend's boyfriend start going around. Now Regina's been "frozen out" and her ex-best friends are out for revenge. If Regina was guilty, it would be one thing, but the rumors are far from the terrifying truth and the bullying is getting more intense by the day. She takes solace in the company of Michael Hayden, a misfit with a tragic past who she herself used to bully. Friendship doesn't come easily for these onetime enemies, and as Regina works hard to make amends for her past, she realizes Michael could be more than just a friend... if threats from the Fearsome Foursome don't break them both first. Tensions grow and the abuse worsens as the final days of senior year march toward an explosive conclusion in this dark new tale from the author of Cracked Up To Be.

Regina Afton used to be at the top. She got everything she wanted, had a great boyfriend, and had a great time. When one unfortunate event happens, she is betrayed and cast out of the in-group. She experiences verbal, physical, and emotional problems that make her life miserable even when she fights back. Regina comes from way at the top, and drops to the bottom of the barrel. But when she tries to make new friends and ask for help, she is rejected every time. Because she's done worse to them when she was one of the queen bees. Everyone turns their back to her. All except Michael. When they finally find a connection together, will the in-clique break that even before it starts?

Some Girls Are is an edgy, concise, and raw read. The concept of popularity here is greatly emphasized and is scrutinized at a completely different level. The cruelty and immense bullying in Some Girls Are is seemingly unimaginable. But the insight into Regina's mind is thought-provoking and contradictory to many people who have not experienced this type of abuse. Some Girls Are introduces not only verbal abuse, but also harsh, physical harassment that is so deeply embedded into the atmosphere.

In Some Girls Are, Summers does something that was first introduced to us in her debut, Cracked Up to Be. She provides readers with the real, rough, grit that completely changes many's perspective of high school. Even though that many are not aware of this situation that could be happening all over the world, readers are thrown into the harsh, cold, and unforgivable backdrop of high school.

An unsuspecting victim, Regina is used to being at the top and getting her way. But when she is betrayed, she is showed a completely different side of her high school's sharky waters. At first, readers will almost pity her for the actions done towards her. But when they find out, that she's done the exact same thing to others, readers will also understand the perspective of Regina's 'victims'. Her life at home and at school is so different and her true emotions are so well-hid. Summers completely captures with Regina's narration and inevitably strong characterization. And her relationship with Michael grows into something complicated and different from what they've both experienced. Readers will see them gradually and genuinely understand each other little by little until they know each other so completely, more than anybody else.

Anna is manipulative and very determined. She's not at all like other clichéd mean girl antagonists. She has a goal in mind and uses her wits to complete that goal. Her mercilessness and backstabbing at Regina is so cruel and unthinkable and she turns on Regina fast and doesn't give her a chance to explain. She uses the people around her to do what she wants and seems untouchable with power. Her very potent and authoritative character will both provoke and impress readers.

All through out Some Girls Are, readers will not ever get a break. It's intense and brutal all the time and concise with simple, but exact words that completely enhance what the characters are going through. Summers' writing is harsh and painful in strong, emotive way and reader's will be exhausted after reading this short, but very powerful novel.

Fast-paced and emotionally-surrendering, Some Girls Are is a bittersweet novel that pulls unaware readers and introduces them to a large problem that could be happening anywhere at all. They are put in the place of Regina, and will feel the hurt, insecurity, and fear that she feels just by going to school. High school is a whole different world. A+ =)

The Bottom Line: You will be Regina Afton for 256 pages. Harsh.

---Field Report---
Originality: 9/10
Ending: 9/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 10/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 10/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 10/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 5/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 10/10
Total Score: 98/100 (A+)

Read more...

950 Followers! Another winner for Pick Your Pub Contest!!!

Hey guys!

I reached 950 followers today! Yipee-dee-doo-dah! That's good news for me as well as for you! Because at 950 followers, I'm adding a SECOND winner for the international Pick Your Publisher Contest!!! The second winner will be able to pick TWO books from any of the publisher prize packs in the contest! If you guys do well and get me up to 1000, there will be a THIRD winner!!! Good luck to y'all and hope you guys are havin' a great read-a-thon!!!

Read more...

The Darker Side of Blogging - Here we go again...

Seriously? I'm asking myself how many haters are out there! It's been really bugging me! Recently, I got this comment from a so-called Word Eater. It looked like this:

Word Eater has left a new comment on your post "Radiant Shadows Contest + Tour Info Dates!":

do you ever do reviews on the books you show off getting all the time? all i see are interviews, contests, covers. i'm surprised you even get sent books. this blog sucks.

For the last time...I DO NOT BLOG TO GET FREE BOOKS. NOR DO I 'FAKE' MY IMM POSTS!

Not only was I angry at this Word Eater, but I was really really hurt as well. The only reason why I haven't been posting the reviews for the books I get, is because I ask the publicists when they want me to post my review and interview, and I merely oblige to the date in which they want me to review the book on. Is there something wrong with that? And also, I know that this is a lame excuse for not reviewing as much, but there are actually things more important then blogging to me. I'm currently taking four AP and honors classes and I'm only a freshman. I need to keep my grades up because I don't want to waste the money my folks spend to pay for my school every year. I'm on the varsity badminton team and practice loads. And on top of that? There's blogging. Even though I'm always so stressed about school and friends, I still blog, you know why? Because I love it. And seriously? It's not fun when somebody tells you your blog sucks so if you want to say something nasty, say it to my face and leave me an email to reply to, or don't say anything at all. I'm sorry for a little harsher than usual in this post, but I'm really sick and tired of all the haters out there.

For all of my loyal followers and readers, I love you guys and will be posting more reviews this month =) Sorry if I've been a little absent in reviewing for a little while. I love reviewing books and I hope you guys will be there to read them when I do. Thanks you guys. Y'all mean a lot to me =)

Read more...

Radiant Shadows Contest + Tour Info Dates!

Hi guys! Melissa Marr will be going on tour for her new book Radiant Shadows! Here's the tour info and a contest to go with it! Thanks for K at MMPublicity for letting me hold this contest!

DENVER, CO April 22, 2010: Tattered Cover Book Store; 7:00 pm

LEXINGTON, KY April 23, 2010: Joseph-Beth Booksellers; 7:00 pm

ST. LOUIS, MO April 24, 2010: St. Louis County Library; 7:00 pm

BOSTON, MO April 26, 2010: Cambridge Public Library, Cambridge, MA; 7:00 pm

COLUMBUS, OH April 28 – May 2, 2010: Romantic Times Convention

CLEVELAND, OH May 12, 2010: Joseph-Beth Booksellers; 7:00 pm

PHILADELPHIA, PA May 14, 2010: Chester County Book Store, West Chester, PA; 7:00 pm

RICHMOND, VA May 15, 2010: The Fountain Bookstore; 2:00 pm

So if you're in or near any of these places! Come visit Melissa and have a chat! Now for the giveaway!

---

Here's a chance to win Radiant Shadows by Melissa Marr! Fill in the form below to enter!

Hunger for nourishment.

Hunger for touch.

Hunger to belong.

Half-human and half-faery, Ani is driven by her hungers.
Those same appetites also attract powerful enemies and uncertain allies, including Devlin. He was created as an assassin and is brother to the faeries’ coolly logical High Queen and to her chaotic twin, the embodiment of War. Devlin wants to keep Ani safe from his sisters, knowing that if he fails, he will be the instrument of Ani’s death.

Ani isn’t one to be guarded while others fight battles for her, though. She has the courage to protect herself and the ability to alter Devlin’s plans—and his life. The two are drawn together, each with reason to fear the other and to fear for one another. But as they grow closer, a larger threat imperils the whole of Faerie. Will saving the faery realm mean losing each other?

Rules:
-Open to peeps in the USA!
-This contest will end on April 30th at 4pm (GMT+8) unless this contest doesn't meet at least 35-40 entrants...then, it will be extended.
-If you are under 13 years old, you must have permission from your parents or guardian.
-I will use The Contest Winner Picker for picking the winners for this contest.
-I have the right to extend or close this contest without any notice.
-I am not to be held responsible for any lost or damaged items

Read more...

Character Connection: Jay Heaton (Character Interview)

So, some of you might be wanting to read something with Jay in it! If you've been living under a rock and haven't read The Body Finder, he's the really cute hot guy in it...he really can't be mistaken =) I also interviewed Violet yesterday over here, so go on ahead and check it out! Anyway, here's my quick interview with him! Enjoy! Tell me what you think in the comments =) I'd love to hear from more Jay fans like me!!!

What do you think of Violet's ability?
Are you kidding, it’s awesome! Especially when we were little and she used to uncover these cool dead animals. I used to be jealous of her!

How is it like to deal with Violet's ability? Do you feel helpless sometimes?
I didn’t used to until she decided to go hunting for that psycho killer. Now I’m worried that she might try something like that again, and what if something happens to her?

What's your favorite memory of you and Violet?
Don’t tell Violet, but when we were in the fifth grade, we kissed once. She thought it was gross, but I liked it. A lot!

What's your deepest, darkest desire/secret?
It’s probably not very dark, or very deep either, but I kind of wish I was the one who could find bodies. Like I said, I was always a little jealous of Vi.

What's your favorite song?
Coldplay has a song called Violet Hill and I kinda like, although it really has nothing to do with Violet. *shrugs* I probably just like it because it has her name in it.

Are you very protective over Violet?
I don’t want to be over-protective, but I guess you could say that I watch out for her and worry about her. I can’t imagine losing her.

When did you first realize that you were in love with Violet?
Way before she ever did, that’s for sure. I think I’ve loved her since that first kiss, I just had to wait for her catch up. Thank god she finally figured it out.

Read more...

Character Connection: Violet Ambrose (Character Interview)

Hey guys! I have Violet Ambrose from Kimberly Derting's The Body Finder here! And also, it's Kim's birthday so go tweet her happy birthday at @KimberlyDerting! Here's my chat with Violet!

What do you think of your 'ability'? Do you think it's a talent? Or a curse?
I used to think it was more of a curse; I just wanted to be normal like everyone else. But when I realized that it might be useful in tracking down a killer, I realized it might not be so bad to be different.

What's your favorite memory of you and Jay?
When we were younger, Jay and I used to play in the woods for hours, building forts and making treasure maps. Sometimes he would have to wait while I’d dig up an animal that called out to me, but he never complained. Jay’s just like that, kind of sweet, even about my ability.

How did you meet Jay?
He moved to our school in the first grade and he didn’t have any friends. I told him that if he kissed Chelsea Morrison I’d be his best friend. Of course, I didn’t think he’d really do it, but he did. And Chelsea did what I’d expect her to do, she pushed him down. The school had a no-tolerance policy when it came to any physical contact (like kissing or pushing), so the principal called all of our parents and we got in trouble. But we’ve been best friends ever since.

What's your favorite book?
I had to read To Kill a Mockingbird once for a class, and I really liked it! But if I’m being totally honest, I really liked Carrie by Stephen King. Now she had a creepy ability!

Do you wish that you never had your ability? Or do you wish that there were more people with your ability?
I used to, like I said before, I just wanted to be normal. I’m not sure I wish there were more people with my ability, but sometimes I wish there was someone I could talk to who really understood what it was like, being different. I wish I could talk to my grandmother about what it was like for her.

What's your biggest fear?
Losing someone I love, isn’t that everyone’s fear? I’d do anything to protect my friends and family.

Do you fear your ability?
No. It’s kind of weird, I guess, growing up with something like that you never know anything different so it’s not scary. It probably helps that my parents are so understanding about it. If they were freaked out about it, maybe I would be too.

Read more...

Author Uncovered: Lauren Oliver (Author Interview)

Hey guys! Today, I have Lauren Oliver, author of Before I Fall with me! You can see my review here!

What if you had only one day to live? What would you do? Who would you kiss? And how far would you go to save your own life?

Samantha Kingston has it all: the world's most crush-worthy boyfriend, three amazing best friends, and first pick of everything at Thomas Jefferson High—from the best table in the cafeteria to the choicest parking spot. Friday, February 12, should be just another day in her charmed life.

Instead, it turns out to be her last.

Then she gets a second chance. Seven chances, in fact. Reliving her last day during one miraculous week, she will untangle the mystery surrounding her death—and discover the true value of everything she is in danger of losing.

---

Did you ever base any of your characters on anybody?
I think many of my characters are an amalgam of people that I know: the personality traits of four or five of my friends might have unconsciously informed a single character, for example. No single character is a representation of any single person I know, although certainly there are types—the immature, self-absorbed boy, the alpha girl—whom I have known in real life and whose characteristics are reflected in the book. But I always say that fictional characters are like the characters in dreams: ultimately, every single one of them is a reflection of you. That makes writing a supremely narcissistic profession.

What do you see as your strengths and weaknesses as an author?
I think there’s strength in my dialogue; I have a realistic understanding of speech rhythms and patterns (probably because I spend all my time blathering on with my friends!). I also think I’m decent on a line-by-line basis, with images and description and things like that.
There is, paradoxically, a weakness there as well: I have a tendency to over-write, particularly when I’m not sure how to move the story forward. This is indicative of another weakness of mine: plotting does not come easily to me. It is painstaking and agonizing and definitely something I have to continuously work on.

Why did you choose to write about such a mysterious suspense novel?
Hmmm. I’m not sure I quite chose it. Actually, when I first conceived of the book I really conceived of it as character-driven: Samantha Kingston, the main character, is selfish and cruel and petty at the beginning of the book, but as she comes to a deeper understanding of herself, and her role in other people’s lives, she changes.
I needed her to begin to see her life as inextricable from other people’s, and in order to do that, I needed to interweave various story-lines and create some mystery surrounding Sam’s death. So the mystery was actually in service to the emotional arc of the story.

What's the most interesting thing a reader has ever said to you?
A reader told me that Before I Fall helped her grieve a young relative who had died. This was a totally unexpected consequence of having written a novel that deals with death. I was blown away (and, of course, honored) by that statement.

Are you excited to have released your debut novel?
Excited, agonizingly anxious, petrified, and thrilled.

What's the best part and the most difficult part of the publishing process for you?
The most difficult part is definitely the moment when you have to let go of your book and let it go out into the world—when you can no longer edit or tweak, but must accept that in some ways, the book is no longer solely (or even primarily) your own. People will (hopefully) read it, and judge it; criticize it; hate it or love it or feel indifferently toward it. I’m a huge control freak, and relinquishing this control does not come naturally to me at all.

The best part? Getting to work with brilliant and motivated people who are as passionate about books as I am. My agent, my editor, the marketing team at Harper, the sales force, the designers—they’re like a micro-constellation of support, and they’re all rooting for me, and it feels incredible.

How does it feel being an author?
Honestly, it feels amazing. I keep expecting to wake up one day and feel indifferent about it, but so far that hasn’t happened. I am truly blessed; there is no distinction between what I like to do for pleasure and what I get to do for my job. I get to live my life in a very passionate way, which is critical to me. (I am a Scorpio, after all.)

Book you've faked reading:
This is terrible and embarrassing, but I have tried to read Lolita, by Nabokov, several times, and I always get stuck around page 60. I’ve now just started lying about having completed the book. I guess the secret is out! I’VE NEVER READ LOLITA, GUYS. Sorry.

Book you've bought for the cover:
2666, by Robert Bolano: not for the cover so much as the exquisite box-set that FSG released a year or so ago.

Book you're an evangelist for:
The Tale of Despereaux, by Kate DiCamillo. When it came out, I made all of my friends read it. Ditto Proust was a Neuroscientist, by Jonah Lehrer. Very different books, both excellent.

Anything else you'd like to add?
That’s about it! Thanks so much for the chance to interview. It was so fun.

Read more...

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

Title: Before I Fall
Author: Lauren Oliver
Pages: 480
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publication Date: March 2, 2010

What if you had only one day to live? What would you do? Who would you kiss? And how far would you go to save your own life?

Samantha Kingston has it all: the world's most crush-worthy boyfriend, three amazing best friends, and first pick of everything at Thomas Jefferson High—from the best table in the cafeteria to the choicest parking spot. Friday, February 12, should be just another day in her charmed life.

Instead, it turns out to be her last.

Then she gets a second chance. Seven chances, in fact. Reliving her last day during one miraculous week, she will untangle the mystery surrounding her death—and discover the true value of everything she is in danger of losing.

Sam Kingston is the epitome of the classic mean girl. And February 12 should just be another perfect day, in her perfect life. But when she is victimized in a car-crash, and when she wakes up, it's still February 12. Again, and again, and again seven times until she rights her wrongs. But she has a lot to make up for and it's not going to be easy. In those seven re-lives, she struggles to understand that there's more to life than popularity. And once she gets that last day right, she'll move on unto the unknown.

Before I Fall is an evasive and intriguing debut novel that has a very different and cryptic concept of after-death. But instead of being unrealistic or impossible to believe, Oliver creates a palpable environment as well as an assuring character whose growth is evident as she learns many lessons and ultimately understands what her actions can become.

With sharp insights and extensive tangibility, Oliver's novel is a raw and harsh look at the startlingly brutal hierarchy of high school and the vicious bullying and injudicious cruelty that is present in today's high school communities. Behind Sam's actions--may it be present or past--readers are subtly taught a valuable lesson that pertains both to Sam's situation, and in real life. The interlocking of both fantasy and reality here is balanced and although everything is exaggerated a little bit, it still provides that same real-life grit that many people are unaware of today.

Every time Sam wakes up, each day becomes more and more important and Oliver carefully slips a sense of urgency that grows each time Sam re-lives her last day. And at first, Sam makes only little changes and differences in her last day but as she starts to understand that her treatment and perception of people was wrong, she starts to not only become a better person, but become a better, more complex character.

Through Before I Fall, Oliver exposes the raw and horrible truths about high school. Before I Fall is a debut that delves deeper than usual into the psyche of a high school teenager and is a microscope to the underlying cruelties that each person has within them. A =)

The Bottom Line: Raw + Real = Before I Fall

---Field Report---
Originality: 9/10
Ending: 9/10
Characters: 10/10
Plot: 9/10
My reaction/enjoyment: 7/10
Theme: 10/10
Imagery: 8/10
Setting: 5/5
Voice: 5/5
Style: 4/5
Tone: 5/5
Cover: 9/10
Total Score: 90/100 (A)

Read more...

Swoon-Worthy: Last Sacrifice by Richelle Mead & Rosebush by Michelle Jaffe!!!

You guys won't believe what I found!!! The cover for Last Sacrifice by Richelle Mead; the last book to the VA series!!!!!!! It isn't the final cover but isn't it really amazingly pretty?????? OMG!


Last Sacrifice by Richelle Mead:
Releasing on December 14th, 2010

*teeny spoiler alert*
The astonishing final novel in Richelle Mead's epic series!

Murder. Love. Jealousy. And the ultimate sacrifice. Now, with Rose on trial for her life and Lissa first in line for the Royal Throne, nothing will ever be the same between them.

Rosebush by Michelle Jaffe:
Releasing on December 14th, 2010

See Jane run. See Jane die.

Instead of celebrating Memorial Day weekend on the Jersey shore, Jane is in the hospital surrounded by teddy bears, trying to piece together what happened last night. One minute she was at a party, wearing fairy wings and cuddling with her boyfriend. The next, she was lying near-dead in a rosebush after a hit and run.

Everyone thinks it was an accident, despite the phone threats Jane swears were real. But the truth is a thorny thing. As Jane's boyfriend, friends, and admirers come to visit, more memories surface--not just from the party, but from deeper in her past...including the night her best friend Bonnie died.

With nearly everyone in her life a suspect now, Jane must unravel the mystery before her killer attacks again. Along the way, she is forced to examine the consequences of her life choices in this compulsively readable thriller.

So what do you guys think about these two books? Tell me in the comments =) I for one CANNOT wait until these two are released...SB was awesome and I can't wait for more!!!!!!!!!!!

Peace, Love, and Books,

Read more...