Die For Me by Amy Plum

Die For Me by Amy Plum
Expected publication date: 10th May, 2011
Source: Thanks to HarperTeen (netgalley)

DIE FOR ME is the first of three books about Kate, a sixteen-year-old American who moves to Paris after the death of her parents. It introduces a new version of the undead with revenants, beings who are fated to sacrifice themselves over and over again to save others’ lives. Kate finds herself falling for Vincent, who she discovers is not the typical French teenager he appears: he is something else entirely.

DIE FOR ME presents a new supernatural mythology presented in a city where dreams are sometimes the same as reality.

My Review:

LOVE this book!  Die For Me was one of my most anticipated reads of 2011, after hearing good things from a friend who read it early in the publishing stage. So as you can imagine I had high expectations and I can happily say they were exceeded.     

Plum's writing I couldn't get enough of it.  Her prose is beautiful and magnetic.  While the concept was truly unique and intriguing.  The pace was perfect allowing the beauty of this story to soak in, like the descriptions of the Paris setting ~sighs~.   Paris is one of my favourite cities in the world, so romantic and gorgeous.  And Die For Me being set there added some extra charm to this story.  Also it was a refreshing change from the usual high school setting.  There was talk of art, museums and sitting at Cafe' on the streets of Paris reading a book that will make you want to trade places with Kate (that and the kissing scenes with Vincent).        

The characters were fantastic.  What I loved most about Kate is she thought about the consequences before making a decision.  It was nice change from your typical heroine that rushes into everything.  She was smart, strong and genuine.   Vincent ~pâmoison~ (that is swoon in French...I hope).  Gorgeous, mysterious, sweet yet sexy and has a french accent.  What else could a girl want!

And the romance ~sighs again~.  If you are like me and are a complete romantic fool you are going to love Kate's and Vincent's relationship.  It was delicious yet tender.  Lots of  playful banter and yummy kissing scenes.   I could quote so many moments but I can't since this is an ARC (I will have to wait until a book boyfriend post).

Oh and if you hate those damn cliffhangers then you are going to love this beautiful ending that gave us a little something extra.  I wish that every series could end like this one.

Overall, Die For Me is an awesome debut that I want to read all over again.  It is a passionate and engaging read that I highly recommend for fans of paranormal romance.

Overall Rating: 5/5
Writing: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
Romance: 5/5
Cover: 5/5

For More Info: Visit Amy Plum's website

For More reviews:  Goodreads

My Book Boyfriend #11

My Book Boyfriend is hosted by the awesome blogger Missie at The Unread Reader.   What is My Book Boyfriend you might ask.  Well it is a weekly meme where we talk about a literary crush including stats, a picture of what you imagine he looks like and some quotes from him that make you swoon.  If you are interested in participating please check out Missie blog The Unread Reader.

Bones from The Night Huntress Series

This week's pick is inspired by Missie.  She said her vampires were missing her so I thought I would spend some time with them.   I just finished This Side of The Grave and it was a fun and steamy read.  Thanks for sharing your vampires Missie!

Even in his trademark black pants with a casual white pullover, Bones stood out like a jewel among rocks with his finely molded features and tall, sculpted frame.  Every move of his body sent ripples along those lean muscles, and his flawless crystal skin practically dated people to see if it felt as good as it looked - which it did.  Even when we'd first met and I plotted to kill him.  Bones' looks had turned my head.  In that was he was a perfect predator, enticing his prey to come close enough to bite.

(Bones in the first book bleached his hair blonde but I much prefer him as a brunette as per the later books)

Dangerous, sexy, powerful, quick witted, confident, sinfully delicious and can make any girl blush.  Bones is one of my favourite vampires.

Quotes

"Before we go, I gotta know: If mind-reading abilities are real, there's something else I wondered if fiction got right about vampires-"
"Ask me if I sparkle and I'll kill you where you stand," Bones cut him off with utmost seriousness."

"No matter what happens, you will never lose me, I am forever yours, Kitten, in this life or the next."

I think this’ll definitely tide me over while we’re apart,”Bones laughed, dragging me into his arms with far more strength and quickness than was fair, considering I still had trouble making my limbs operate.
“Oh, Kitten,” he murmured as his lips dragged down my throat. “You didn’t really think we were done, did you?"

What do you think of Bones?

Thanks again to Missie for hosting this meme!

Invincible Summer by Hannah Moskotwiz

Invincible Summer by Hannah Moskowitz
Publication date: April 19th, 2011
Source: ARC received from Simon Pulse.  Thank you.

Goodreads Description: 
Across four sun-kissed, drama-drenched summers at his family’s beach house, Chase is falling in love, falling in lust, and trying to keep his life from falling apart. But some girls are addictive..

Noah’s happier than I’ve seen him in months. So I’d be an awful brother to get in the way of that. It’s not like I have some relationship with Melinda. It was just a kiss. Am I going to ruin Noah’s happiness because of a kiss?

My Review:


Invincible Summer is completely different from what I expected.  When I look at the cover I think summertime fun, romance, a story told from a girl's perspective.  But I couldn't be more wrong.  Incivible Summer is a powerful and HEARTBREAKING story about family. 

It is told from Chase's point of view, the second eldest in a family of five children, over the period of four summers, set at their beach house.  Chase is an outstanding character.  So well fleshed  out.  He is a character you really feel for and just want to hug and never let go.  Chase has so much weight and responsibility on his shoulders for somebody of his age. 

The rest of Chase's family I have mixed feelings towards.  Loved Claudia and Gideon.  Noah would make me mad and then I would love him again the next minute.  And Chase's parents annoyed me and I would love to rant on about them but I don't want to spoil the book.  They are parents who need to be more responsible for taking care of their children and their own actions.  But no matter how I feel towards the characters, they were all believable and well written.     

Invincible Summer plot deals with some compelling family issues head on.  Moskowitz writing is raw and gritty. It gets under you skin and will cause an emotional reaction.  Whether it be tears or anger. Both for me.

There is one thing that bother me a little, the ending.  I wanted better closure with their relationship with the Hathaways (neighbours).  But then I guess everything doesn't always get sorted out in real life.

Overall, Invincible Summer is a really good but intense read.  I recommend it to fans of contemps who like their stories a little edgy and very emotional.

Overall rating: 4/5
Writing:4/5
Plot:4/5
Characters: 5/5
Romance: 3/5
Cover: 4/5

For more info:  Visit Hannah Moskotwiz website

For More reviews: Goodreads

In My Mailbox #21

In My Mailbox was created by Kristi at The Story Siren and inspired by Alea at Pop Culture Junkie.

 

 

The book budget went out the window this week. 

 

BOUGHT:

Clarity by Kim Harrington - YA paranormal mystery and debut author of 2011.  Love the cover and it is just as good inside.  Review will be coming soon.

Desires of The Dead by Kimberly Derting - This is the follow up novel to The Body Finder.  I can't wait to visit with Violet and Jay again.

Angelfire by Courtney Allison Moulton - Debut author of 2011.  This is young adult fantasy.

This Side of The Grave by Jeaniene Frost - One of my favourite adult paranormal series.  This series and it crazy cast of characters are always so much fun to read.

Embrace The Night Eternal by Joss Ware - This comes from a friends recommendation.  It is adult dystopia read. 

 

What did you get this week in your mailbox?

Shelving Habits

The other day I was going to re-organise my bookshelf.  But when I went to start I got stuck.  I didn't know how I was going to re-sort it.

And it got me wondering how does everyone else organise their bookshelf? Do you go by colour? Alphabetical order? Hardcovers and paperbacks?  Size? Genre? Favourites?

At the moment my main shelf is sort by genre - YA paranormal, YA contemp and Adult Fiction.  In no specific order.  Then my to-be-read shelf is sorted by colour of the book so it looks pretty.  But I really feel I need better organisation.

So I would love to hear how you stack your shelf? 

What works for you? 

Do you ever change it around?

**I will post a pic after I have re-organised**

Where She Went by Gayle Forman

Where She Went by Gayle Forman
Publication date: 5th April, 2011
Source: Borrowed from a friend

It's been three years since the devastating accident ... three years since Mia walked out of Adam's life forever.
Now living on opposite coasts, Mia is Julliard's rising star and Adam is LA tabloid fodder, thanks to his new rock star status and celebrity girlfriend. When Adam gets stuck in New York by himself, chance brings the couple together again, for one last night. As they explore the city that has become Mia's home, Adam and Mia revisit the past and open their hearts to the future - and each other.
Told from Adam's point of view in the spare, lyrical prose that defined If I Stay, Where She Went explores the devastation of grief, the promise of new hope, and the flame of rekindled romance.

My Review:

"She kissed me good-bye. She told me that she loved me more than life itself. Then she stepped through security.
She never came back."

Wow! Where She Went is an intense and breathtaking read.  I have to admit I enjoyed If I Stay but I wouldn't say I loved it.  But Where She Went is one the BEST books I have ever read.   It made my heart ache, it made me smile and of course cry my eyes out (within the first 50 pages might I add).
This story really got under my skin.   It consumed my thoughts and I HAD TO read it all in one sitting otherwise I would have been a complete mess.  I had to know whether Adam and Mia where going to be okay?   Whether they were going to move on or get back together?  Because Adam and Mia are characters that you get completely and utterly emotionally invested in.

What to say about Adam?  He is intense, broken and flawed (and another musician ~swoons~).  The way Forman writes I felt like I could feel every bit of his pain (and it hurt like hell).

Mia, I adore too.  I thought I would be mad with her for breaking Adam's heart.   But I understood why Mia choose to make that decision to leave Adam thanks to Forman writing such well crafted and believable characters.

The writing is the kind I love - simple yet beautiful and powerful.  There are parts of Adam's song lyrics at the beginning of most chapters.  I really love books that music plays an important part of and Forman really expresses both Adam's and Mia's passion for music.

Overall, I am just blown away by the heart in this story.  Where She Went is a must read for everyone!

Overall Rating: 5/5    ***A FAVOURITE READ OF 2011***
Writing: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
Romance: 5/5
Cover: 5/5

For more info: Visit Gayle Forman's website.

For more reviews:  Goodreads

***Audrey and Missie I am putting this out there now.  Adam is mine XD

My Book Boyfriend #10

My Book Boyfriend is hosted by the awesome blogger Missie at The Unread Reader.   What is My Book Boyfriend you might ask.  Well it is a weekly meme where we talk about a literary crush including stats, a picture of what you imagine he looks like and some quotes from him that make you swoon.  If you are interested in participating please check out Missie blog The Unread Reader.

Will from Perfect You

He's still the kind of guy who will come up to me after class and say, "So, what happened in there? I lost interest as soon as the teacher started talking," but he's also the kind of guy who will decide that since it's a Wednesday, we need to go eat tacos and then drive out to the park and watch the sun set.
He also still a really good kisser.

What makes Will so special is he is the kind of guy who always brings a smile to your face.  Charming, sweet, hot, thoughtful, someone that is easy to talk too, funny and a great kisser.

Quotes:

He grabbed it and leaned in, pressing his lips to my neck right below my ear.  I felt the warmth of his mouth, a sharp quick nip from his teeth, and then he was grinning at me again.

"Yeah," he said and then he blushed.  Will BLUSHED.  I didn't know he could do that.  I know I should say he suddenly seemed vulnerable and I felt a connection to his soul or whatever, but the truth is I just wanted to tackle him and then make out for the next three thousand years. "It's just .......today has really sucked, and when you're around stuff doesn't seem so crappy." 

"I surprise you?" He caught my arm in his, sliding his hand down so it tangled with mine. 

"Yeah.  You're not so bad, you know?"

"You like me," he said, grinning again.

"I didn't say that."

"Close enough," he said, and kissed me again.

What do you ladies think of Will? 

Who is one of your literary crushes that always makes you smile?

Thanks again Missie for hosting this meme.

Perfect You by Elizabeth Scott

Perfect You by Elizabeth Scott
Publication Date: March, 2008
Source:  Bought

Goodreads Description:  Kate Brown's life has gone downhill fast.
Her father has quit his job to sell vitamins at the mall, and Kate is forced to work with him. Her best friend has become popular, and now she acts like Kate's invisible.
And then there's Will. Gorgeous, unattainable Will, whom Kate acts like she can't stand even though she can't stop thinking about him. When Will starts acting interested, Kate hates herself for wanting him when she's sure she's just his latest conquest.
Kate figures that the only way things will ever stop hurting so much is if she keeps to herself and stops caring about anyone or anything. What she doesn't realize is that while life may not always be perfect, good things can happen -- but only if she lets them....

My Review:

Favourite Quote:  You tell yourself you aren't something or that you can't be something and you know what? It will become true. You have to decide who you are and what you can do and then go after what you want. Because believe me, no one is going to give it to you."

Okay, first up I have to admit I am on a bit of Elizabeth Scott binge at the moment.   I just love the way her books make you feel - happy yet your heart aches a little at the same time.  And Perfect You is a perfect example of that.

Like I have said before Scott writing is stunning.  Her voice is so true to life.  She deals with some compelling issues with honesty and heart.  Her characters always draw you into their world and are unforgettable.

Kate, is a character that I just get.   So easy for me personally to connect with. She is someone who doesn't realise her own self worth.  She pushes Will away because she doesn't think he is really into her and doesn't trust him.  She believes that Anna can be her bestfriend again even though she treats Kate horribly.  Her family is falling apart and she feels like she has no-one to turn too.  I know that these actions might annoy some people but not me.   I think this makes Kate more realistic.   And Will, I adore.   Completely irresistible (and yes book boyfriend material).  I love, love, love the playful banter between him and Kate.  The really had great chemistry.

"Kate, don't be like that. You know I only did so well because I yearn-see, SAT word- to follow you to college and steal your heart."
"Uh-huh. Too bad for you I don't plan on attending clown college."
He grinned. "Only you would ignore the incredibly sweet thing I just said."
"Only you would describe one of your asinine comments as incredibly sweet."

"I know you secretly have being dying to check me out"
"All right, you caught me. I'm secretly obsessed with you and spend all my free time writing about you in my journal. 'Dear Diary, today Will was an ass for the 467th day in a row. He's so dreamy"

Want to know my favourite part of this book?  The yummy kissing scenes. Before reading Perfect You Alexa and Nomes did mention some delicious kissing (and this may have been the main reason I desperately ran out and bought a copy) and they were right.  I just love the build up and the tenderness of those moments between Kate and Will.  They are one of my all time favourite couples.

Overall, Perfect You is a charming and clever read that I couldn't get enough of.  If you love a good coming of age story with a nice touch of romance then you shouldn't miss this.

Overall Rating: 5/5
Writing: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
Romance: 5/5
Cover: 4/5

For More info:  Visit Elizabeth Scott's website.

For more reviews:  Goodreads

In My Mailbox #20

In My Mailbox was created by Kristi at The Story Siren and inspired by Alea at Pop Culture Junkie.

This week I stuck to my book budget and didn't buy anything (well technically anyway).  

BOUGHT:

Playing Hurt by Holly Schindler - I ordered this title a couple of months ago from the US and it has been finally released.  Can't wait to start this YA contemp fiction.  Playing Hurt is one of my favourite covers of 2011.

BORROWED:

Where She Went by Gayle Forman - I am lucky enough to have a wonderful friend who lent me her ARC.  This is the follow up book to If I Stay and is YA contemp.  Already read it and it is BRILLIANT.  Review will be up soon.

FOR REVIEW:

Winter's Shadow by M.J. Hearle - This is an Aussie paranormal-romance YA debut.  It sounds like a dark tale of forbidden love.  Thank you to Pan Macmillan Australia.

Bandits by LM Preston - I have already read the sample chapter of this and it is good.   This is YA sci-fi adventure with a sprinkle of romance and pirates (which leads me to think of Johnny Depp and that is always a good thing).  Thank you to LM Preston.

BLOGS I HEART:  Go and check out Audrey's review at Holes in My Brain of Raw Blue by Kirsty Eagar.  It made me want to go and read this amazing book all over again.    

What did you get in your mailbox?

Leave a comment and I will make sure to stop by your blog.

Reviewing Habits

The other day Jacinda from The Reading Housewives of Indiana (go check out her and Jasmine's awesome blog) left a comment asking how do I remember quote?.  Do I use those handy little sticky notes?  It got me thinking about reviewing habits.

I personally can't live without my sticky notes when I read for quotes.  Most of the time I make little notes on them like 'romance quote', 'inspiring quote' and 'lol quote' so it is easy to find what I am looking for.  I also have a journal nearby when I am reading.  I jot down my thoughts like how I feel before I start the book then afterwards, characters, plot, romance, writing etc.  Also again quotes that really stand out because eventually I remove those sticky notes (don't want to damage those precious pages). 

When I go to write my review, I do a draft the same day while it is still fresh in my mind, then I come back a couple of days later once I had some more time to think about the book and tidy the review up.  I can't leave it too long because I tend to struggle with writing a review.  When it comes to how long I spend writing my review, I am not sure but probably way too long.

I would love to hear your reviewing habits. 

So please leave a comment especially any handy tips.

Kissing Annabel by Steven Herrick

Kissing Annabel: Love, Ghosts & Facial Hair  & A Place Like This
by Steven Herrick
Published: January, 2007
Source: Bought
Australian title that is available internationally

Goodreads Description: Love's a curious thing.  Jack is an average sixteen-year-old. He's obsessed with sex, sports, and his maturing body. He's got a lot on his plate, but one issue is constantly on his mind: his mother's death. It's been seven years, but Jack has yet to let her go....That is, until he meets Annabel. Annabel is beautiful, smart, and most important, she gets Jack. Suddenly love makes sense, and the future seems hopeful. And for the first time, Jack feels ready to leave the past where it belongs.

My Review:

I am big fan of verse books.   I discovered Steven Herrick's brilliant writing earlier this year and since then I have made it my goal to read all of his books this year.  Kissing Annabel is another heartfelt and humourous tale from this very talented Australian author.

This book is two related previous release stories put together Love, Ghosts & Facial Hair and A Place Like This.  Both have the same main character Jack.  Again like Herrick's other novels it has great charactization.  Jack is a fresh, unique and a little bit of a quirky character.  He is very entertaining but also a character you care about.

The writing is gorgeous.  Herrick knows how to make the simplest of sentences sound beautiful as there is so much emotion with each line that he delivers.

The only problem I had with this book was the switching of narration.  It switches narration randomly and I have to admit it got a bit confusing.

Overall, Kissing Annabel is an enjoyable read that is sure to keep fans of verse books entertained.  And on that note I will leave you with a favourite passage of mine:

He needs his ghost
whispering through the house
arranging the days into sequence.
I climb down from the roof
and walk around our yard.
I am alone
the only ghost I hear is the wind
I walk along Narrowneck Road
past Annabel's house
down to Landslide Cliff
and for the last time
I shout the ghost's name
and turn
without waiting for the echo.
(page 115)

Overall Rating: 4/4
Writing: 4/5
Plot: 3.5/5
Characters: 4/5
Romance: 3.5/5
Cover: 4/5

For More Info:  Visit Steven Herrick's website.

For More reviews:  Goodreads

My Book Boyfriend #9

My Book Boyfriend is hosted by the awesome blogger Missie at The Unread Reader.   What is My Book Boyfriend you might ask.  Well it is a weekly meme where we talk about a literary crush including stats, a picture of what you imagine he looks like and some quotes from him that make you swoon.  If you are interested in participating please check out Missie blog The Unread Reader.

Patrick from Fixing Delilah

"He lifts my chin until our eyes meet and his lips brush over mine, soft at first, dandelion seeds blown against my mouth like a wish, and then....completely. Hungry. Suffocating and desperate and I don't want it to stop. I've never been kissed liked this before - not by Finn or the celebrity crushes in my head. Not even in my craziest dreams"

Patrick is the gorgeous guy next door.  He can sing and play the guitar.  I seem to have a weakness for this and what girl doesn't!   He even got accepted to college for music he is that talented.   He helps out with his Dad's construction business during the summer (which means a few sexy shirtless scenes).  Loves Catcher in the Rye.   Has honey colour eyes and some playful dimples. And most importantly is just a great guy.

Model Arthur Sales is playing my Patrick. 

I actually imagine him having more of honey colour hair and eyes but other than that I think he is perfect.

Quotes:

"He lets his thought fade as his eyes sweep over mine, down to my mouth.  His hands cup my face, and the ground - in the sneaky way that grounds have - drops from beneath my feet.  I can't hear anything but the sound of my own breath, needy and hot and a little suffocated.  I feel my body pulling to him, everything uttered between us building to this, magnets on the fridge, and I don't consider the possible complications, because his eyes are right now on my face, closing, eyelashes casting half-moon shadows on his skin, and -"

"Doesn't matter how many people are in the crown anymore, Delilah. Ten or ten thousand, I'm still only singing for one"

"He moves down a rung to check the second floor windows, the muscles in his tanned shoulders and arms tightening as he grabs the sides of the ladder.  I watch the way his bare back twists as his hands move along the wood frames searching for flaws and fractures.  I'm just spotting him, of course, in case he slips."

What do you think of Patrick?  Does he make you want to go read Fixing Delilah?

I have had lots of comments asking where I keep find these guys.    Well it takes lots of hard research searching the web for gorgeous guys at random sites.  Thanks again Missie for hosting this meme.

The Goddess Test

The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter
Expected publication date: 19th April, 2011
Source: ARC provided thanks to Harlequin Teen (netgalley)

Goodreads Description: Every girl who has taken the test has died.
Now it's Kate's turn.
It's always been just Kate and her mom--and now her mother is dying. Her last wish? To move back to her childhood home. So Kate's going to start at a new school with no friends, no other family and the fear her mother won't live past the fall.
Then she meets Henry. Dark. Tortured. And mesmerizing. He claims to be Hades, god of the Underworld--and if she accepts his bargain, he'll keep her mother alive while Kate tries to pass seven tests.
Kate is sure he's crazy--until she sees him bring a girl back from the dead. Now saving her mother seems crazily possible. If she succeeds, she'll become Henry's future bride, and a goddess.

My Review:

The Goddess Test is an awesome debut.  It was a hypnotic yet comfortable read where the pages just flew by.

It is such an eloquently written story that I am surprised that this is Aimee Carter's debut novel.  It is just a seamless read and a really remarkable debut.  And the premises was incredible.  I loved the way the mythology was weaved into the plot.  It was creative, unique and easy to follow.  And for a book that is part of a series is has a completely satisfying ending. YAY!

Kate, the female protagonist is a likeable and endearing character.  She is a compassionate and caring person who will sacrifice anything for those she cares about.   And there is a wide variety of secondary characters that are well rounded and entertaining.  Okay there were also a couple I found annoying like Ava but overall it was a good bunch of a characters.  I especially like James (not a love interest, just a friend....well at least at this stage).  He is a little bit different and a mysterious character that I hope we get to see more of in the next installment.

The romance was sweet and tender but it lacked a little spark as did Henry.  He was a nice guy who I liked but he lacked that something special to make him standout at this stage from all those literary leading men.  I really hope that in second book he opens up more as a character and then I am sure I will be swooning. 

Overall, The Goddess Test has a very familiar paranormal romance feel to it but yet it is different enough to be memorable and a highly enjoyable read.   I am certainly eagerly anticipating the next instalment in the series.

Overall Rating: 4/5
Writing: 4/5
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 4/5
Romance: 3/5
Cover: 5/5

For more info:  Visit Aimee Carter's website.

For More reviews: I Swim For Oceans and Goodreads.

In My Mailbox #19

In My Mailbox was created by Kristi at The Story Siren and inspired by Alea at Pop Culture Junkie.

This week is a huge mailbox.   I wasn't planning on going book shopping but I was in town, near my favourite bookstore and I couldn't help myself.  So there goes the book budget!

SWAPPED:
Saltwaters Moon by Julie Gittus - After Nomes' brilliant review I knew I had to get my hands on this Aussie YA contemp title.  Plus I am in love with this cover.

BOUGHT:
Tripple Ripple by Brigid Lowry - Another Aussie YA title.  This was just released and is contemp fairy tale.
Guitar Rose Highway also by Brigid Lowry -   Another Aussie YA contemp about two characters who run away together.
The Iron Crowned by Richelle Mead - Adult paranormal.  Love Richelle Mead, one of my favourite authors.  This is book 3 in the series.
Love You Hate You Miss You by Elizabeth Scott - Yes I am on a Elizabeth Scott binge at the moment.  Her writing is just brilliant.  This is a YA contemp.
Forsaken (also known as The Demon Trapper's Daughter) by Jana Oliver - I have heard good things about this YA paranormal fiction.

FOR REVIEW (ebooks not pictured):
Die For Me by Amy Plum - This is my most anticipated read of 2011.  It is YA paranormal/urban fantasy read and Amy Plum is a debut author.
Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini - Another debut author of 2011.

BLOGS I HEART - Awesome blogger Jess at Tales of Compendium is holding an amazing Aussie books giveaway.    Where you can win three signed books from some of Australia's YA authors.  This giveaway is opened INTERNATIONALLY.

What did you get in your mailbox? 

Make sure to leave a comment and I will drop by your blog.

Aussie Cover Crazy

If you are new to my blog, I like to do a feature every now and then on Aussie book covers to help promote all the great books we have hiding down here.  The following covers all have a touch of dusty yellows, oranges and browns.

Enticed                Exile

Desert Fish            Yellow Cake

Halo

My personal favourite is Desert Fish.  From the cover it makes me think it is going to be a beautiful and heartwarming story.  Also I prefer if a cover has a face on it that you just get a glimpse.  So you have an idea but not set imagine in your head before you read it.  My runner up cover would have to be Halo.  I just love the romantic feel.

Which cover is your favourite?

Stealing Heaven by Elizabeth Scott

Stealing Heaven by Elizabeth Scott

Published:  June, 2008

My name is Danielle. I'm eighteen. I've been stealing things for as long as I can remember.

Dani has been trained as a thief by the best there is—her mother. They never stay in one place long enough for Dani to have real connections, real friends—a real life.

But in the town of Heaven, everything changes. Suddenly, Dani must question where her loyalties lie: with the life she's always known—or the one she's always wanted.

My Review:

Favourite Quote: "The story of my life can be told in silver; in chocolate mill, serving spoons, and service for twelve.  The story of my life has nothing to do with me.  The story of my life is things.  Things that aren't mine, that won't ever be mine.  It's all I've ever know.  I wish it wasn't."

Three words - I LOVED IT!  Stealing Heaven is my kind of book.  It has a happy and fun feel but also has depth and heart and has one of the most delicious romances I have read in a while.

We all know that Elizabeth Scott is a talented writer.   I have read a couple of her books before and enjoyed them but Stealing Heaven is definitely my favourite.  Probably because pretty much the whole way through I had a goofy grin on my face.   The writing is just so effortless to read and hooks you straight in.  It is also so perfectly paced - you are excited for the next page but never feel rushed.  And the characters you just click with. 

Dani, awww I want to hug her.  Her life is pretty sad to begin with.  She is closed off from the world and has missed out on her teens years (no friends, no relationships, no school, no home) because of her mother and the life they live as thieves.  I loved watching her grow and come to realise what she really wants.  And also beginning to stand up for herself with her mother (I was cheering at that part).

Now Dani's mother, I can definitely say she is going on my most disliked parent list.  I know that she thought what she did was the best thing for Dani but I all I could think was how selfish she was. 

Greg is such a strong supporting character.  You just have to say his name and the above mentioned goofy grin appears on my face.  Just a great guy.  I like that he never gave up on Dani no matter how much she tried to push him away and also that he had made mistakes in his past which helped him be more believable as character.

The romance is so gorgeously written.  It comes gently and naturally and very very slowly builds up to that first kiss so that you are screaming KISS NOW!  Dani and Greg just had brilliant chemistry.

"Hey," he says, and leans over, brushes his thumb across my mouth.  "You'll figure it out."  I nod caught by that simple touch.  By how good it feels.  Being with him makes the whole world sharper somehow.  More real.  More everything."

Overall, Stealing Heaven is a sweet and real read that is a perfect escape for a few hours.  I am off now to squeeze it onto my favourite's shelf.

And again a big thank you to Nomes ((hugs)) for recommending me another brilliant book!

Overall Rating: 5/5
Writing: 5/5
Plot: 5/5
Characters: 5/5
Romance: 5/5
Cover: 4/5

For More Reviews: Persnickety Snark and Steph Su Reads

For More Info:  Visit Elizabeth Scott's website.

I am in a romance mood at the moment.  Does anyone else have any books they recommend?  I would love to hear your suggestions.

My Book Boyfriend #8

My Book Boyfriend is hosted by the awesome blogger Missie at The Unread Reader.   What is My Book Boyfriend you might ask.  Well it is a weekly meme where we talk about a literary crush including stats, a picture of what you imagine he looks like and some quotes from him that make you swoon.  If you are interested in participating please check out Missie blog The Unread Reader.

Nathan

from Psych Major Syndrome

"It wasn't just Nathan's timing that took me aback.  He had answered the door wearing only a pair of low slung jeans, his chest bare except for the acoustic guitar strapped across it.  I'm loyal to Andrew and everything, but let me tell you - Nathan has a nice chest."

Here are some important facts about Nathan:

* Can sing and play the guitar

* Walks around shirtless

* Has a crooked smile

* Has dark tousled hair that you want to run your fingers through

* Is a math major

* Loves his Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal for breakfast

* And is a genuine good guy

Favourite Quotes:

"To my surprise, Nathan started singing along, as well.  And even more surprisingly...he sounded really, really good.  His voice was low and warm, wrapping around each word and somehow making "Hollaback Girl" sound like something an old crooner could have sung.  Well, until he sang along to the whole "B-A-N-A-N-A-S" part.  Even Chris Isaak couldn't make that sexy."

"I trailed off, and Nathan eyes searched mine.  And somehow, even though I hadn't fully formed the last sentence in my head and in all truth had no idea what I was about to say, I felt like he understood."

"He'd closed his eyes, and when they opened again they were a dark hunter-green, almost black.  I could see the war within them, but then his hands came up to cup my face, and I felt a wave of triumph as he pulled me closer, slanting his mouth over mine."

~Swoon~

What do you think of Nathan?

Thanks again to Missie for hosting this meme.

Psych Major Syndrome by Alicia Thomspon

Psych Major Syndrome by Alicia Thompson
Published: August, 2009

Goodreads Description:  The Patient, Leigh Nolan (that would be me), has just started her first year at Stiles College. She has decided to major in psychology (even though her parents would rather she study Tarot cards, not Rorschach blots).

Patient has always been very good at helping her friends with their problems, but when it comes to solving her own...not so much.

Patient has a tendency to over analyze things, particularly when the opposite sex is involved. Like why doesn't Andrew, her boyfriend of over a year, ever invite her to spend the night? Or why can't she commit to taking the next step in their relationship? And why does his roommate Nathan dislike her so much? More importantly, why did Nathan have a starring role in a much-more-than-friendly dream?

Aggravating factors include hyper-competitive fellow psych majors, a professor who’s badly in need of her own psychoanalysis, and mentoring a middle-school-aged girl who thinks Patient is, in a word, naive.

My Review:

Favourite Quote:  "You . . . smell like rain." Whatever I expected, that hadn't been it. "Is that a good thing or a bad thing?" "Good," he said. "Definitely good."

This book is a hidden gem.   I hadn't heard anything really about Psych Major Syndrome until my friend and book guide Nomes read and wrote a rave review for it.  I then couldn't get my hands on it fast enough and she was right this book is AMAZING!   Psych Major Syndrome is funny, warm, irresistible read that is slightly quirky in a good way.

Thompson writing is clever, witty and charming.  It just has a great flow that makes it so easy to get caught up in this story.  It is the kind of writing that keeps you amused and causes a silly grin on your face too.  Please note that as a warning if you read this in a public place.

Leigh, is the girl you want to be bestfriends with.  She is just a normal girl and is someone easy to relate too.  I love that she drives an old beat up car, likes to read 'incredibly unrealistic and badly written romance novels' and tends to over analyze everything.

And then there is Nathan......awwww ~sighs dreamily~.  He ticks all the boxes for me to make a great literary crush.  Can play guitar, check.  Has a crooked smile, check.  And tends to walk around shirtless, check.  He also is just a great guy, no bad boy attitude in sight.  It is impossible for anybody not to like him.

The romance in this book is delicious and sweet.  The kind that you keeping going back and re-reading again and again and again. 

Overall, Psych Major Syndrome is a book that makes you feel good.  I say to all contemp and romance fans run out and get this book now!

Overall Rating: 5/5
Writing: 5/5
Plot: 4/5
Characters: 5/5
Romance: 5/5
Cover: 4/5

For more reviews:  Visit Inkcrush

In My Mailbox #18

In My Mailbox was created by Kristi at The Story Siren and inspired by Alea at Pop Culture Junkie.

BOUGHT:

The Locket by Stacey Jay - YA paranormal read.  This is my first Stacey Jay book and it looks like a lot of fun and a little creepy.

Perfect You by Elizabeth Scott - YA contemp fiction.  I just read Stealing Heaven and loved it, so I am now trying to get my hands on every book she has written.

Honey, Baby, Sweetheart by Deb Caletti - YA contemp fiction.  Again read Stay and adored Caletti's writing. So trying to collect her books as well.

Kissing Annabel by Steven Herrick - YA verse book by a well known Aussie author.  

Game As Ned by Tim Pegler - YA contemp fiction.  Another aussie author.

What did you get in your mailbox? 

Also what author are you crazy about at the moment?

Leave a comment and I will make sure to stop by your blog.

Mini Reviews

Occasionally, some books leave with not much to say.  So here are some mini reviews other books I have reading recently.

The Iron Witch by Karen Mahoney - This was just okay for me. The writing was okay, the plot was okay, the characters were okay, the ending was okay, the romance was okay. I think you get the picture.........   If you a new to reading young adult paranormal fiction you might love it. But to me it felt like this story has been told before. I do see some potential in this series as the whole alchemist world is quite interesting but I don't know if I would read the next installment.  Rating 2.5 stars

Graceling by Kristin Cashore - I have had this forever on my bookshelf (seriously, I had to blow the dust of the book) when a friend of mine challenged me to read it.  I was surprised at how much I enjoyed it. Initially it took me about 70 pages to get into but I am glad I stuck with it because it was just as awesome as everybody said. Love Katsa, Po and Bitterblue - all wonderfully fleshed out characters. A book full of adventure and heart.   Rating 4 stars.

Here Bridget Lies by Paige Harbison -  I struggled with this book and in the end I couldn't finish it.  The whole mean girl story line is really not my thing.  And also I just couldn't connect with Bridget.  There are a lot of positive reviews for this book on goodreads so I really think this was just a case of not my type of book.  Copy provided thanks to Netgalley and Harquelin.  No rating since I didn't finish it.