Thursday, May 31, 2012

Character interview: Mercy Moore

Would you believe I could snag an interview with Mercy Moore, the lead female from Shannon Dermott's Cambion series? No? Well... I did, and I'm so darn happy about it! She's a fabulous character who slowly grows into her own skin. Sure, she makes some bad decisions from time to time, but who doesn't?




1. Mercy, you are obviously not very thrilled about sharing your body with a demon. Still, don't you think that if the two of you merged together, things would become much less complicated?

Smoothing my hair, I use the time to gather my nervous thoughts. “I’m sure it would be easier to join with it, her, whatever. But will I be me after?” It is a fear. The succubus has very different ideas about sex than I did.

2. You seem to have grown a bit since the last book. I mean, you're not as passive anymore and you're asking some questions. Why did it take you so long to start being proactive?

“Everything happened so fast. I mean, I listened to my mom. She’s my mom,” I plead. “I thought I could trust her to help me do the right thing. Then there was Luke. And he’s amazing. I never thought I could be with anyone. At least not until mom said it would be safe. Then everything just got out of control.”

3. If you didn't want Paul as more than a friend, why did you keep leading him on?

“I never meant to lead him on. I loved him. Well, at least I thought I did. I mean, I still do, just not the way he wants me to. And then, I had to be sure. He was my best friend. I figure he deserved me to at least see.” Balling my hands in fist, I wonder how many more hard questions I was going to get.

4. Would you mind sharing one of your boys? I'd take Flynn if you don't mind!

Flynn…. “I’m sure Flynn would have you. He’s always into the next pretty face.”

5. Have you ever thought that McKayla may be able to answer some of your questions about who and what you are?

I hate that Sebastian named the thing inside me. I am me. Not her, it. “Maybe, but it’s not like we talk. She sends me thoughts on occasion when it suits her.”

6. I wonder why you seem to be the only succubus with a split personality. Do you?

“Yeah, but no one will tell me anything. I doubt Wikipedia has page on the subject.”

7. In addition to cooking and kissing boys, what else do you like to do?

Smiling, I think about all the fun things I used to do. But then I frown, “Kissing boys isn’t top of my list,” I say, then add, “ I do like being with Luke.” I almost leave it at that, but decide to continue. “I do like hanging out with Maggie when she’s not nagging me.” I giggle a little at my own joke. “And I love horror and sci-fi movies.”

8. If Maggie turns out to be a supernatural creature after all, how do you think you could help her?

Clasping my hands, I look down again. I feel so guilty about Maggie. “I’m not sure how best to help her other than be there for her anyway she needs me. I’m glad Tom’s there to help.”

9. Why can't you accept Flynn's affection as more than just lust?

Groaning inwardly, I think of Flynn and roll my eyes. It always comes back to him. “How can I accept his interest? Every time I look up, he’s with a different girl. He never stays with anyone too long and even though I understand why, what makes me think I’ll be any different. I’m just the only girl who has turned him down, most likely.”

10. You were very determined not to damn Luke with being his girlfriend. Why was he able to waver your decision?

My emotions swing south again. Luke and what I’ve done to him. “I never meant… Well he said….” But none of that even covers what I’ve done. “I love him.”

11. And lastly, do you think you would ever want to be with just one guy?

“I am with only one guy,” I say defensively. “I can’t help what I am and what lives inside me,” I nearly shout. Getting myself under control, I calmly add, “McKayla has her own ideas about who we should be with. I’ve been faithful. I haven’t been with anyone else. Maybe she has, but that’s out of my hands.”


Thank you, Mercy for letting me poke around your personal problems. It was fun having you on my blog :)

Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Waiting on Wednesday #23


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Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly blog post by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights releases we're eagerly awaiting.

My pick this week is:




Title: Lies Beneath
Series:  Lies Beneath, Book1
Author: Anne Greenwood Brown
Release date: June 12th, 2012

Summary:
Calder White lives in the cold, clear waters of Lake Superior, the only brother in a family of murderous mermaids. To survive, Calder and his sisters prey on humans, killing them to absorb their energy. But this summer the underwater clan targets Jason Hancock out of pure revenge. They blame Hancock for their mother's death and have been waiting a long time for him to return to his family's homestead on the lake. Hancock has a fear of water, so to lure him in, Calder sets out to seduce Hancock's daughter, Lily. Easy enough—especially as Calder has lots of practice using his irresistibly good looks and charm on unsuspecting girls. Only this time Calder screws everything up: he falls for Lily—just as Lily starts to suspect that there's more to the monsters-in-the-lake legends than she ever imagined. And just as his sisters are losing patience with him.

Why I want to read it:
I know that many of you have already read it, but I haven't gotten around to that yet, thus this post. I got it from Netgalley, so basically I just need to sit down and read it. Besides, the story sounds good even though I'm not in the sea monster lover club.

So how about you? What are you waiting on this week?

Tuesday, May 29, 2012

In her shoes ~ 13 ~

Every Tuesday I will pick a character I've read about recently, perhaps even the week before, and try putting myself in her shoes. What things would I do differently? What have I learned from her behavior? That kind of thing. You are welcome to participate if you want, just please link back, so we could build a nice community of followers. Thanks!!! :)


I had a bit of an internal discussion with myself about which heroine to share with you today. I thought about Kate from Wilde's Fire, but for some reason I don't feel like talking about a character that I personally couldn't get to like. So, my other choice will be holding the stage.

She's tough and gentle at the same time. She's reckless, hard to kill, and looking for the adrenaline of danger. She has a soft soul that aches for love and understanding. She's two persons in one, in the process of merging them together. Her name is Finley Jayne, and she's the lead female character in Kady Cross's Steampunk Series. I didn't really like her in book 1, The Girl in the Steel Corset, because her identity wasn't very well portrayed. I was more confused about her, than any of the other characters. But book 2, The Girl in the Clockwork Collar described a completely different person. Here Finley has grown into a young woman who doesn't only want to save her own life. She's grown tough and she fiercely defends those whom she'd started to care about. I loved the completeness of her character, I loved that she searched righteousness for others, and that she was ready to risk her own life for the safety of her friends.

Mostly though I loved how well she seemed to handle young duke Griffin King, who was slowly falling for her head over heels. She got him out of his skin on several occasions, which led to revelations she would've never dreamed of. I had real fun reading their banter and getting in their heads. They reminded me of Will Herondale and Tessa Gray from Cassandra Clare's Infernal Devices, but were also quite unique in their own way.

So, whose shoes would you want to step into this week?

Monday, May 28, 2012

Book review: "The Girl with the Clockwork Collar" by Kady Cross

The Girl in the Clockwork Collar (Steampunk Chronicles, #2)

NOTE: I received this book from Netgalley.

I can not believe I finished this book in one sitting. I can not believe it was so good that I loved every line of it! I can not believe that after "The Girl in the Steel Corset", this masterpiece would follow! But Kady Cross has definitely outdone herself with the story, the characters and the writing style. I am thankful that I was able to review a copy of her work before publication.

Now, Steel Corset left me hanging, wondering what would happen with Griffin, Finley, Emily, Sam and Jasper. Would they couple up? Would the split up? Would Jasper be hanged for murder? As the story develops, a lot more intricate plot comes to life. Characters with great influence are revealed, and such that don't really matter. We are introduced in gangs, and have to wonder what would come out of it all.(more)

Sunday, May 27, 2012

Book review: "Wilde's Fire" by Krystal Wade

Wilde's Fire
NOTE: I Received this book from Netgalley.

I read the entire book in one day, almost in one sitting. It was really good, story wise. The writing style was sort of in need of improvement because there were times when the narrative and the characters sounded just too dry. But I thoroughly enjoyed and was left hungry for more.

What really got me going about this book was the different world that the characters suddenly stumble upon. Everything they had known until then is but a dream of sorts. The reality is in the other world, the world where monsters reign, where there is Darkness, and where people die. (more)

Thursday, May 24, 2012

Book review: "The Girl in the Steel Corset"by Kady Cross

The Girl in the Steel Corset (Steampunk Chronicles, #1)

I have had this book for a while now, but I don't really know why I never got to reading it before. However, now that I'm about to read book two of the series I thought it quite appropriate to begin with this one first.
Kady Cross is not an author I know, in fact, I think this may very well be her debut novel. Still, she managed to create a realistic enough world in a historic time, where technology isn't that uncommon.

I haven't really enjoyed steampunk novels before, but I believe it was more due to the books themselves, than having anything to do with the genre. In fact (more)

Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Waiting on Wednesday #22



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Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly blog post by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights releases we're eagerly awaiting.
My pick this week is:




Title: Shadow Bound
Series:  Unbound, Book 2
Author: Rachel Vincent
Release date: June 1st, 2012

Summary:
KORI DANIELS is a shadow-walker, able to travel instantly from one shadow to another. After weeks of confinement for betraying her boss, she’s ready to break free of the Tower syndicate for good. But Jake Tower has one final job for Kori, one chance to secure freedom for herself and her sister, Kenley, even if that means taking it from someone else…

The job? Recruit Ian Holt—or kill him.

Ian’s ability to manipulate the dark has drawn interest from every syndicate in the world, most notably an invitation from Jake Tower. Though he has no interest in organized crime, Ian accepts the invite, because he’s on a mission of his own. Ian has come to kill Tower’s top Binder: Kori’s little sister.

Amid the tangle of lies, an unexpected thread of truth connecting Ian and Kori comes to light. But with opposing goals, they’ll have to choose between love and liberty….


Why I want to read it:
Okay, so technically, I'm not waiting on this book. Why, you may ask... Because I just finished reading it, if you must know!!! :))) How awesome is that??? Well, taken the fact that the book was ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS, IN A BLOW-YOUR-MIND SORT OF WAY...... it's beyond awesome!! I totally advise all readers of adult paranormal/urban fantasy novels to get their hands on a copy of Shadow Bound as soon as physically possible. You won't regret it! Oh, and even if you missed on book one - it wouldn't matter! They're just companion novels, talking about different characters. So hurry up and pre-order it now!

What are you waiting on this week?

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

In her shoes ~12~

Every Tuesday I will pick a character I've read about recently, perhaps even the week before, and try putting myself in her shoes. What things would I do differently? What have I learned from her behavior? That kind of thing. You are welcome to participate if you want, just please link back, so we could build a nice community of followers. Thanks!!! :)



Well, since I've read Kady Cross's Steampunk Chronicles (books 1 & 2) in a matter of days, I thought this post would be centered around Finley Jayne - the main heroine.

I'd love to get in her shoes because she's brave and reckless. She has a bad side - a dark side that's attracted to criminal activities - and even though she's afraid of it, she's ready to embrace it. After all it's a part of her.

She heals super fast, she fights with great agility and strength and she's not afraid of a little blood. She's devoted to her friends - especially the handsome duke who takes her under his protection - and is ready to do anything to help them in time of trouble. And believe me when I say that there's a lot of that coming their way.

Most of all, she's not a girl obsessed with herself, like many others would be. She knows her strengths and weaknesses, she knows her boundaries and limitations, and she knows that the person her heart desires is the only person she really wants.

Want to know more? I know you do! So get started on the fabulous books by Kady Cross.

Which girl did you pick this week? Please leave a link so I can read your post!

Monday, May 21, 2012

Book Review: "The Summer My Life Began" by Shannon Greenland

The Summer My Life Began
NOTE: I received this awesome book from Netgalley.

Okay, first of all, I want to start with the formality of the first couple of chapters. It was super weird. Not only was weird that the girls called their parents Mother and Father, and the granny was never anything else but Grandmother, but also, the girls were addressed by two full names!!! Em, the main character was always called Elizabeth Margaret. Now take just one minute and contemplate this. Being called by your family by your two names all the time. As in "Elizabeth Margaret, could you please pass me the water?" or "Elizabeth Margaret, put on your shoes." or "Elizabeth Margaret, whatever."

That's just a mouthful, and a weird one too. Especially since Em, a.k.a Elizabeth Margaret never seemed to even notice how awkward it sounded. And to be honest, the moment she landed in the new place where her Aunt Tilly ruled, and she dropped all that formality, it was like a huge weight was taken off my shoulders. Seriously, when Elizabeth Margaret was done for and Em appeared, I could finally relax and enjoy the nice summer Em was having. (more)

Saturday, May 19, 2012

Books to movies: Snow White and the Huntsman

I had a hard time choosing the movie for this week. There are a ton of non-book related titles, but I wanted to stick to what I've started so.. The title this week is another one of Snow White adaptations. A couple of weeks ago, we discussed "Mirror, Mirror", which starred Julia Roberts as the evil queen in yet another such adaptation. I must confess that I still haven't watched it. But I'll make sure to see it soon.

Anyway, "Snow White and the Huntsman" comes out in the USA on June 1, 2012, so that's right around the corner. It proceeds just the same as the original fairy tale:

Snow White is the only person in the land fairer than the evil queen. Unable to tolerate the insult to her vanity, the evil queen decides that Snow White must die. The queen sends a huntsman to kill Snow White. However the huntsman finds himself unable to murder the innocent young woman, and instead ends up training her to become a warrior capable of threatening the queen's reign.  - taken from IMDB.

Now, go ahead and guess who's starring as Snow White. You can't? Okay, I shall tell you. It's Kristen Stewart. Yes, the Kristen Stewart. And I'm not very excited about that fact. I mean, she plays a weak girl with a bunch of emotional problems with no difficulty, but a warrior princess? Who are they kidding? So, I'm either gonna end up hating that movie (because of Kristen) or loving it (if she actually shows that she can really truly act).

Well, there is one person who could make me love the movie, even if Kristen fails to do so. It's... Chris Hemsworth. If you're wondering who that is, perhaps Thor would ring a bell..? Anyway, I love that guy, both in face and acting skills. He was great in Thor, cocky, brave and eager to prove his worth. I hope he's got it all figured in this one.

There are monsters here, like real monsters. There's magic. And there's the desire to survive. I only wonder if there would be a prince, or Mr. Huntsman would do the honors of saving the pretty warrior princess...?

Wanna see the trailer?


Oh, and here's what the poster looks like. I actually find it really pretty. With that shield and armor, and Kristen looks so mysteriously beautiful as a warrior princess. I really really really hope she doesn't mess up this movie.


So, any thoughts?


Friday, May 18, 2012

Follow Friday #17


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Follow Me Friday is a book meme hosted by Parajunkee's View and Alison Can Read. #FF is a blog hop that expands your blog following by a joint effort between bloggers. In order to join in the fun, all you need is well . . . A book blog :)


The question this week is:

Summer break is upon us! What would be the perfect vacation spot for you to catch up on your reading and relax?


My answer:

  Any place out of work and out of town would be the perfect spot for me. Going to grandma's, to the coast, in the mountain - pretty much wherever - works for me. The kindle can be taken anywhere, so that means a limitless supply of good books no matter where I go :) And relaxing is something I do best when hubby is around ;)


Well, that's my answer, what's yours?

Please leave links to your FF's, so I can stop by!!

Thursday, May 17, 2012

Book Review: "The Space Between" by Brenna Yovanoff

The Space Between

I can say with a hand on my heart that I loved this book. I'm not a vamp or zombie lover, but gimme angels and demons and leave me be! So yeah, "The Space Between" was my sort of book variety, and I really, truly enjoyed every single one of its awesome pages!

I know it's been a while since it was published (in 2011), but I only got around it thanks to a "what-to-read-next" poll I did in a Goodreads group. Otherwise, it may still have waited on my book stash, untouched and mostly ignored.

Anywho, I keep on thinking that I'm more the angel-lover sort of person, and in fact I am. But this story was demon oriented, and got me looking at the other side of the veil. Not that I'd change my opinion on the holy ones and the fallen, but still it was pretty nice to read a demon's perspective on the world and all.

So the demon here was a girl - Daphne, the last one of Lucifer and Lilith's daughters. She was a pretty strong willed girl I might add. She was (read more)

Wednesday, May 16, 2012

Waiting on Wednesday #21



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Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly blog post by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights releases we're eagerly awaiting.
My pick this week is:



Title: One moment
Series:  none
Author: Kristina McBride
Release date: June 26th, 2012

Summary:
This was supposed to be the best summer of Maggie’s life. Now it’s the one she’d do anything to forget.

Maggie Reynolds remembers hanging out at the gorge with her closest friends after a blowout party the night before. She remembers climbing the trail hand in hand with her perfect boyfriend, Joey. She remembers that last kiss, soft, lingering, and meant to reassure her. So why can’t she remember what happened in the moment before they were supposed to dive? Why was she left cowering at the top of the cliff, while Joey floated in the water below—dead?

As Maggie’s memories return in snatches, nothing seems to make sense. Why was Joey acting so strangely at the party? Where did he go after taking her home? And if Joey was keeping these secrets, what else was he hiding?

The latest novel from the author of The Tension of Opposites, One Moment is a mysterious, searing look at how an instant can change everything you believe about the world around you.


Why I want to read it:
Because mysteries are one of my favorite genre! Because I love struggling to remember what has happened. And because it just sounds fabulous. Besides, I already got it from Netgalley and I'm extremely happy about that!!

What are you waiting on this week?

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

In her shoes ~11~

Every Tuesday I will pick a character I've read about recently, perhaps even the week before, and try putting myself in her shoes. What things would I do differently? What have I learned from her behavior? That kind of thing. You are welcome to participate if you want, just please link back, so we could build a nice community of followers. Thanks!!! :)


Right, so today I have a special lady to introduce to you. Her name is Daphne, and she's the lead female in Brenna Yovanoff's "The Space Between".

She's a demon, the last daughter of Lucifer and Lilith. But except for her heritage (and honestly, who could change that about themselves?), there's nothing demonic about her. I mean, she's so honest all the time, so concerned about everyone but herself, that to me she doesn't fall into the underworld category. She's more angelic than anything, and I was totally pissed when the actual angel couldn't see the good in her.

Anyways, I loved the way she risked her life rushing to the rescue of her brother. I loved her quiet demeanor, and her desire to protect those she cared about. But most of all, I was totally fascinated about how her love saved Truman (the boy she loved) from damnation. If anything can redeem it's love, right?

So, I wouldn't change a thing about Daphne. She was more worthy of a nice life full with warmth than any of the other characters. Because her heart was so innocent, so pure, it was truly amazing :)

So, whose shoes would you like to step into this week?


Monday, May 14, 2012

Book Review: "Shayla Witherwood: A Half-Faerie Tale" by Tamra Torero

Shayla Witherwood: A Half-Faerie Tale
NOTE: I received this book from Netgalley to review.

Well, what can I say? I didn't expect to give such a high rating to this novel, but it definitely earned it. The writing style was really nice, and except for a couple of places, there were no grammatical mistakes. Nothing that needed to be fixed.

It was a light and bright read with a really positive twist. It had been a while since I read a book that made me see pink in the world, so I really loved that. Most books leave me with an emotional overload that has me either depressed or exhilarated. This book left me with a calm, peaceful feeling in my heart. It's truly amazing. (more)

Sunday, May 13, 2012

Book Review: "Rainbow's End" by several authors

Rainbow's End
NOTE: I received this book from Netgalley in return of an honest review.

Okay, so this isn't a YA book, although there's no reason why a teen shouldn't read it. I mean, it's got romance, but the most intimate thing is kissing. So yeah, anyone 15+ should be able to read it and get the most of it.

I liked it very much because it also was Christian themed, and Christian romance is just so good! I mean, finding the road to the Lord is a miracle all on it's own. But finding romance with the right person...? Well, it's just amazing :) (more)

Saturday, May 12, 2012

Books to Movies: Prometheus

Well, okay I agree, this isn't exactly a book turned into a movie, it's the origins of a Greek myth turned into a movie. But who cares?

Here's the summary:

A team of scientists journey through the universe on the spaceship "Prometheus" on a voyage to investigate Alien life forms. The team of scientists becomes stranded on an Alien world, and as they struggle to survive it becomes clear that the horrors they experience are not just a threat to themselves, but to all of mankind.

I don't recognize anyone special in the cast, so I won't mention actors. But the director is Ridley Scott, and he's one of my favorites :)

Here are the trailers:






What say you, eh? Love the scenery, and the sounds are pretty amazing too, full of drama and expectation! I can't wait for it to come out in the summer :)

Friday, May 11, 2012

Follow Friday #16





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Follow Me Friday is a book meme hosted by Parajunkee's View and Alison Can Read. #FF is a blog hop that expands your blog following by a joint effort between bloggers. In order to join in the fun, all you need is well . . . A book blog :)


The question this week is:

This Sunday in the US is Mother's Day. What are some of your favorite books with strong mother/child relationships?


My answer:

  I honestly can't think of one. I even scrolled down my read list, but not even one title jumped out at me as "I am the one". Mostly, the books I've read have some relationship mother/child, but I can't really call it strong. Or it has been strong at some point, but in the present time it isn't. Does that even make sense?


There are a couple that do strike a cord, but not in the way you mean. For example, there's "Interrupted: Life beyond words", where the mother wasn't entirely sane, and the daughter - Ali - at 13 I think, was doing everything in her power to just keep the mother alive and happy for as long as she could. The woman who adopted Ali afterwards tried her best to give the girl the love that lacked in her life. It was only in the end however, that there was any progress in that department, since Ali was feeling rebellious the entire 5 years of her life with her new mother. 


Then another book I think of is "Emerald City", where Olivia and her mom used to have a great relationship - always depending on each other -  until the mom took her own life. That left Liv depressed to the point that she attempted doing the same. 


And then, though it isn't a YA book, there's "Somebody to Love", which was an amazing story of the love of a mother. Parker was always ready to sacrifice herself for the good of her mischievous son. Even to put up with all the crap she got from her dad.


Well, those are my choices, what are yours?

Please leave links to your FF's, so I can stop by!!

Follow up note:  

I actually thought of a book with a strong mother/child relationship. The Little Women series by Louisa May Alcott is a great example of the love a mother can have for all of her children. And of course the respective response of the girls. That's truly an amazing series and I can't believe I forgot to mention it!!!

Thursday, May 10, 2012

Blog Tour: "The Shapeshifter's Secret" by Heather Ostler



Well, today is the blog tour of "The Shapeshifter's Secret" makes a stop at my blog. I'm quite excited about it, because I don't do blog tours very often. So anyway, let me give you more information about this novel.

She tried telling herself to stop, but it was useless. Something had fully claimed her mind and body. A sound began to erupt from inside her chest, a deep sort of growl that seized her entire being. She felt as if there was a grizzly bear inside her, trying to escape. And then a deafening roar echoed from her mouth, only inches away from Lancer’s face. It took everything inside of her not to attack him.

In Julia’s life, timing is everything. Like the time her paranoid father put bars on her window so she wouldn’t sneak out at night—even though she’s never given him a reason not to trust her. Or the time this weird new kid showed up at her school and pretty much every girl in sight instantly and inexplicably fell in love with him. What was up with that?

But as time moves on, things in Julia’s life go from strange to seriously impossible. Now it’s all she can do to keep herself and the life she’s always known from falling apart.

This fast-paced action-adventure story is packed with humor, romance, and enough twists and turns to keep you guessing to the very last page. Get lost in a world of hidden royalty, shifting alliances, and dangerous vendettas, but don’t ever forget: nothing is what it seems.

Here's the book trailer:



And now,  the big surprise! There's an international e-book giveaway for the Shapeshifter's Secret! Just enter the Rafflecopter below! a Rafflecopter giveaway

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Waiting on Wednesday #20



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Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly blog post by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights releases we're eagerly awaiting.
My pick this week is:



Title: Changeling
Series: The Order of Darkness, Book1
Author: Philippa Gregory
Release date: May 29th, 2012

Summary:
Italy, 1453. Seventeen-year-old Luca Vero is brilliant, gorgeous—and accused of heresy. Cast out of his religious order for using the new science to question old superstitious beliefs, Luca is recruited into a secret sect: The Order of the Dragon, commissioned by Pope Nicholas V to investigate evil and danger in its many forms, and strange occurrences across Europe, in this year—the end of days.    

Isolde is a seventeen-year-old girl shut up in a nunnery so she can’t inherit any of her father’s estate. As the nuns walk in their sleep and see strange visions, Isolde is accused of witchcraft—and Luca is sent to investigate her, but finds himself plotting her escape.    

Despite their vows, despite themselves, love grows between Luca and Isolde as they travel across Europe with their faithful companions, Freize and Ishraq. The four young people encounter werewolves, alchemists, witches, and death-dancers as they head toward a real-life historical figure who holds the boundaries of Christendom and the secrets of the Order of the Dragon.     

The first in a series, this epic and richly detailed drama is grounded in historical communities and their mythic beliefs. It includes a medieval map of Europe that will track their journey; and the interior will include relevant decorative elements as well as an interior line illustration. And look for a QR code that links to a note from the author with additional, detailed information about the setting and the history that informed the writing. With Philippa Gregory’s trademark touch, this novel deftly brings the past—and its salacious scandals—vividly and disturbingly to life.


Why I want to read it:
Seriously? Because I love historical fantasy. I love secret Orders. And I love gorgeous guys that team up with girls in order to unveil secrets of myths and culture.

What are you waiting on this week?

Tuesday, May 8, 2012

In her shoes ~10~

Every Tuesday I will pick a character I've read about recently, perhaps even the week before, and try putting myself in her shoes. What things would I do differently? What have I learned from her behavior? That kind of thing. You are welcome to participate if you want, just please link back, so we could build a nice community of followers. Thanks!!! :)


Well, my post today belongs to Allison Sekemoto from Julie Kagawa's 'The Immortal Rules'. If you haven't read it yet, you can check out my review here.

And if you have, well you should know why I picked her.Allison is a strong willed survivalist. She scavenges the city of New Covington, along with many others, in search for random scraps of food or anything useful that might lay buried somewhere, forgotten. And even though she isn't the group's leader, the qualities are right there, under the surface. She's protective, caring and full of ambition to show the humans that they aren't just cattle for the vampires that rule the world. Not that anyone cares to listen.

She's always been a fighter, though not in the literal sense of the word. She's been strong willed, brave and driven by the desire to one day repay the vamps in full for what they did to her mother.

But then, when one expedition outside the city walls goes bad, she finds herself faced with a decision. To die human or to die a vamp.Truly, I can't blame her for what she chose. It's what she did with that choice that made her unique and special. Because even when Turned, she retained her love for the human, and in the darkest times of her Hunger rages, it was the human in her that saved her from killing.

That is one strong heroine that completely won my heart. What girl did you chose this week?

Monday, May 7, 2012

Author Interview: Alicia K. Leppert on "Emerald City"

I believe that the beginning of each new week must be special. In order to do that today, I invited author Alicia K. Leppert for an interview, and she was happy to participate. Now if you're wondering who she is, here's what she says about herself...




I always knew I wanted to be a writer, ever since Career Day in first grade when I walked around carrying a notebook and pencil. Twenty-some odd years later, after a short stint in high school where I dreamed of being an actress, a whirlwind Internet romance including a blind proposal that led to a fairytale wedding and two pretty-near perfect kids, my lifelong dream came to fruition with my first novel, Emerald City. I live with my small brood in my beloved hometown of Pasco, which is located in the only part of Washington state that isn't green. When I'm not writing, I can be found decorating novelty cakes and taking naps--my other two passions.



If you want to know more about her, please visit her site, where she shares odd things about herself, her books and giveaways. www.aliciakleppert.com

And since I was so swiped by her debut book, "Emerald City", I couldn't hold it in me and asked her the following questions:


  1. How did you come up with the idea to write Emerald City? Did it have something to do with the movie City of Angels at all?

My main goal was to write a powerful love story. Outside of that, I didn’t know what to make that love story be about. I tried and failed several different stories before one night having the idea to add a paranormal/fantasy aspect to it. I’m not a huge fan of vampires and werewolves and didn’t want to jump on the Twilight train anyway, so I tried to think of something different, something that was more “good” than “evil.” And that was when I had the idea of an angel. It had nothing to do with City of Angels at all. In fact, I never intended it to be anything like that movie and hoped people wouldn’t draw comparisons to it. Unfortunately, the way I ended up taking the story did resemble that storyline.

2. Did you take special classes to learn how to write so well? I mean, seriously – your style is amazing!

Well first of all, thank you for the incredible compliment! No, I took no classes other than your typical high school English and writing classes and a few community college ones as well. That’s it. Writing is just something that has come naturally to me my whole life. I write how I think and I write what I feel and it seems to work!

3. How did you know what depression felt like? You've described it so well that one can only wonder. Any personal experiences you might want to share?

Yes, I’ve made it no secret that I am speaking from personal experience. I know depression and anxiety all too well. I’ve suffered from an anxiety disorder and a chemical imbalance my entire life and seen more doctors and tried more meds than I care to admit. It is something I struggle with every single day. It was important to me to tell Olivia’s story and paint a realistic picture of depression and the havoc it wreaks on those who suffer from it. I hope it opens people’s eyes to the very real pain it can cause.

4. I felt connected with each one of your characters on a very deep level. I wonder how you managed to make them sound so real. Were they taken from real life models?

There weren’t really any specific individuals I modeled my characters after, more like different pieces of different people I put together to make each one. Olivia, as stated above, was modeled primarily after myself, but other than that, they were all just products of my imagination.

5. I know that many people experience extreme tragedies in their youth, but somehow you've made Olivia's sound unique. What made you write about this girl and present her case as something special?

I knew Olivia’s history would have to be pretty bleak to bring her as low as she was at the start of the book, so I tried to think of the worst things that could happen to a person without getting too grizzly (like rape, for example). I knew she needed to be alone in the world, so that made it easy to come up with her father’s abandonment and her mother’s death. The time between those two events sort of filled itself in naturally, as the things that would realistically happen, in my opinion.

6. One thing I absolutely loved about this story was the growth that Olivia underwent. She started out as the absolute loner, but with the help of Jude, she was able to make some friends. Do you think that in real life, such drastic changes are possible to accomplish?

It’s hard to believe that such a drastic change is possible. But I’ve seen it in other people and I believe that it can happen. At least I have hope that it can.

7. What is the message you're trying to convey through Olivia's character?

Basically that same thing—that change for the better is possible, that there is always hope. No one should have to live life alone and miserable and loveless. That people should never give up on each other, should never stop trying to reach out and befriend one another. And that those who find themselves in a position like Olivia did where they feel there’s no hope and no way out, to GET HELP. There will always be someone, somewhere, who cares enough to help.

8. And now about Jude. Oh, dear! That guy got me hyperventilating every time I saw his name on the page! He was simply amazing! How on earth did you manage to portray someone like him so well? I mean, his attitude, his thoughts, his feelings... they're perfectly thought out!

I’m so glad you fell in love with Jude as much as I did! I intended for him to be that guy that got your heart rate going, and I’m so glad to hear I succeeded! What can I say about Jude? Basically, I just created my dream guy, the guy that every girl wants. Gorgeous, sensitive, caring, but with an intensity and passion that gives him the sexy factor. I didn’t want him to be so sensitive that he didn’t seem masculine, or so tough-guy that he seemed angry and abusive. I tried to find that perfect balance right in the middle.

9. What do you feel for Jude? Both as an author and not?

Hmmm…interesting question. As an author I love Jude’s character because he has a lot of depth, a lot of inner turmoil caused by feelings of right versus wrong and his feelings for Olivia that he knows he shouldn’t have. As a human, and a more specifically a woman, I have a serious fictional character crush on him!

10. I'd really love to know how you came up with Hal's character. That guy was both hilarious and serious, and extremely helpful.

Hal was pieced together by various characters I’ve seen over the years on TV and in movies. The interesting thing about Hal is that until about ¾ of the way through writing the story, he didn’t exist. Jude and Olivia were the only two characters, and one of my editors thought I needed to add some more. Enter Hal. Now it’s hard to imagine the story without him, and he is hands-down the favorite character in my book, according to my readers.

11. The message of this book was pretty strong. I don't know whether you'd written it so it would hold a message, but still. There was hope to keep us strong and there was love that conquers all. What else should the reader see between the lines?

I actually didn’t write Emerald City with the purpose of giving a message, other than “love conquers all” as you stated perfectly. I really had no idea the message that readers would take away from it until I started getting feedback from them. Now I am thrilled and proud of the message it conveys in regards to finding hope, finding happiness, and overcoming darkness.

12. And last one I promise. Is there going to be book 2? I mean, the ending of Emerald City suggested so, but I would like to know for certain :)

Yes!! There will definitely be a sequel, which I am in the beginning stages of writing. It will be called Sin City and will take Jude and Olivia to Las Vegas. The books will be part of a series, although I’m not exactly sure how many books in the series there will be. Right now I’m thinking 4.

Thank you for this interview and for loving my book! 

And I thank you for participating in this questionnaire! It was an honor to have you on my blog! 

You guys, if anyone has a question for Alicia, you can post them as comments and I'll forward them to her! Have an awesome week!

Sunday, May 6, 2012

Book Review: "The Immortal Rules" by Julie Kagawa

The Immortal Rules (Blood of Eden, #1)

Oh. My. Goodness! I am not a freaking vamp book lover, I swear I'm not, but Julie Kagawa got me breathing this story!!! So much that I couldn't get enough of it!!! Seriously, I'm so amazed that she could pull it off, I am almost speechless. Almost. Because I've got a review to write. And here it comes...

The writing style was superior, making the story flow smoothly from one chapter to the next. The characters, and I mean ALL of them, were developed completely like separate identities, as it should be. Each one had a different, distinguished personality, and even though they existed in a fictional world, they all felt realistic. I could feel their emotions - the pain, the hunger... the love. Their thoughts were my thoughts. It was simply brilliant. (more)

Friday, May 4, 2012

Follow Friday #15


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Follow Me Friday is a book meme hosted by Parajunkee's View and Alison Can Read. #FF is a blog hop that expands your blog following by a joint effort between bloggers. In order to join in the fun, all you need is well . . . A book blog :)


The question this week is:

What is one thing you wish you could tell your favorite author?


My answer:

  Okay, so first I suspect I should say who my favorite author is. Since they are several, I'll just put the questions separately:
1. J.K. Rowling - I'd want to tell her that she inspired my love for books. Harry and his friends will always be alive for me!
2. Cassandra Clare - The characters and the worlds she creates are so realistic, that I literally feel like I'm walking and fighting beside them as I read.
3. Rachel Vincent - The way she sacrificed love and friendship was truly painful, and there were moments when I could feel my heart being ripped out of my chest!

What about you?

Please leave links to your FF's, so I can stop by!!

Thursday, May 3, 2012

Book review: "Somebody to Love" by Kristan Higgins

Somebody To Love

I received this book from Netgalley in return of an honest review.

This book was pretty good actually. I loved the romance, I loved the story, I really found it quite amazing. It was light, with humor, sarcasm, and some drama. It was totally worth my time, and I must say that I really enjoyed staying in the pages. Read it pretty quick too, because it groped at my mind, making me want more.

Well, true it's an adult book due to several sex scenes (not explicit, but still), which isn't my usual preferred genre. But I can say with a hand on my heart that I might actually read it again. It was that good. There were a couple of scenes that got me laughing pretty hard, and there was the awesome epilogue that was... well... beyond romantic (if such a term exists).

I would totally recommend it to romance lovers of ages 18 and up. (more)

Wednesday, May 2, 2012

Waiting on Wednesday #19



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Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly blog post by Jill over at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights releases we're eagerly awaiting.

My pick this week is:




Title: The Girl in the Clockwork Collar
Series: Steampunk Chronicles, Book 2
Author: Kady Cross
Release date: May 22nd, 2012

Summary:
In New York City, 1897, life has never been more thrilling - or dangerous.

Sixteen-year-old Finley Jayne and her "straynge band of mysfits" have journeyed from London to America to rescue their friend Jasper, hauled off by bounty hunters. But Jasper is in the clutches of a devious former friend demanding a trade-the dangerous device Jasper stole from him...for the life of the girl Jasper loves.

One false move from Jasper and the strange clockwork collar around Mei's neck tightens. And tightens.


Why I want to read it:
For several reasons actually: 1) I love the cover so, so much!! That purple dress and that heavy-looking collar! I haven't read "The Girl with the Steel Corset" yet, but I have it and am planning to do a Kady Cross marathon one of these weeks :) 2) I have it thru Netgalley and so all I need to do is click a button. How awesome is that!?!

What are you waiting on this week?

Tuesday, May 1, 2012

In her shoes ~ 9 ~

My heroine this week is Olivia from Emerald City by Alicia K. Leppert. To be honest, I don't really want to step in her shoes for the first few chapters, and the reason is because she was suicidal. She was depressed beyond her wits and had given up on life and everything. And she decided to just give in, to let go of life and never come back to it again.
And then a stranger saved her and took care of her and changed her view of life and living. She turned in one eighty and became a totally different person. She started coming out of her shell, talking with people, making friends. But the greatest accomplishment was that she never even for a second went back to consider killing herself again.
No, she dug up her bravery from deep inside and made it her shield. And she opened up her heart to the people around her. By the second half of the book, Olivia was becoming a strong person with a huge desire to live. And that is what I really loved about her. Because she changed so much in a positive direction, that she truly blew me away!!!