Rainy Day Ramblings

Charade(Heven and Hell #2) by Cambria Hebert

Dying at the hands of a psycho was a shock. Having my life returned to me by an angel was incredible. Being named a Supernatural Treasure and being given Sam as my guard was pretty darn awesome. Acquiring a debt for it all—well, I should have seen it coming.Now here we are, fighting demons from Hell, caring for a boy that I just don’t trust, and traveling to faraway places to return a treasure to its rightful place. Nothing is as it seems. Everyone wears a mask; everyone puts on a charade. It’s up to us to separate the truth from the lies and reality from fiction. A hard task when my new reality involves fallen angels, witches and dragons… and did I mention Hell?Anchoring me down through it all is Sam. Sam, who must face tragedies of his own and is put to the test again and again.If we fail in our task, life as we know it—life as you know it—will end. Forever.
Paperback, 331 pages
Published May 18th 2012 by Otherworld Publications

 

Five stars!  The sequel is even better! Full of surprises and secrets!

For Heven, having her life returned comes with a heavy price.  She is the guardian of a secret treasure map that must be returned to the catacombs of Rome.  If this scroll falls into the wrong hands, it would mean chaos, war and demons plaguing the Earth.  Thankfully, she is not alone in her epic quest.  At her side and always her guardian is Sam.  Her boyfriend and protector, a boy she loves more than her own life.  Together they intend to fight off the demons of Hell and make sure the document is securely placed in Rome.  Unfortunately, the demons of Hell have other ideas.  Daily it seems, Heven is attacked by demons.  Luckily, Sam’s abilities allow him to destroy the demons to dust.  As the two prepare for Italy, the stakes are raised higher and higher.  When the forces of Heaven and Hell collide, you know it is going to be an epic battle.  The question is can Heven and Sam return the scroll and prevent the onslaught?  

What I Liked:

• Grab you catching mitt because Cambria Hebert is going to throw some curve balls at you.  If you thought she yanked you around in Masquerade, she is back to shock and surprise you with all the twists and reveals in book two Charade.  It seems that this time around everyone has some secrets, as if Before everyone was a Charade and now the masks are starting to fall and true colors are bursting forth.  
• If you love all things paranormal, this book is full of supernatural beings.  This time around there are demons, witches, angels, dragons, shapshifters, dreamwalkers and more.  This book is jammed packed with paranormal.   
• This book takes you from the calm confines of Grandma’s quiet farm in Portland, Maine to Italy and its wondrous sights from the Coliseum to the Catacombs and then you are plunged into the depths of Hell.  Quite the change in scenery. 
• Again I was soothed with Ms. Hebert’s gentle, easy flowing writing style and then without warning she socks it to you!  Be on your toes when you read a book by this author she knows how to surprise you.
• I loved that this book has layers of depths and numerous storylines.  You have Sam battling his dark side trying to maintain control and protect Heven.  He is also trying to help Logan find his way and maintain a balance between his brother and his girl.  Heven is evolving and growing as well.  Last time around she was a bit meek, no more she is coming into her own and learning to fight and stand up to protect those dearest to her heart.  At the center is the strong relationship between Heven and Sam, it is lovely!  In addition to Sam and Heven’s storyline, there is the thread that follows Logan and his battle to gain control of the darkness within him.  He also proves to be a bit of a thorn in Heven’s and Sam’s relationship, but is there more to it?  Kimber and Cole return and add their two cents.  At the end of Masquerade, there was just a flash of Kimber’s true colors, this time her intentions are revealed.  Cole plays a key role in Heven’s life as well.  Finally, Gran, rounds out the cast and I still get this niggling that she is hiding something.  All of the characters and story lines combine to provide a thrilling, adventurous read.  
• I can tell Ms. Hebert has done her research to bring us this one.  From the colors of auras and their meaning, to dreams and dreamwalking to the lore of angels, demons, Heaven and Hell.   

And The Not So Much:

• The story opens with a bang, a scary assault and then everything settles down a bit and you are lulled along.  The plot moves a bit slow in the beginning, but don’t be fooled, during this time, Ms. Hebert is laying down her threads and building the foundation for the upcoming trip to Italy and the exciting revelations that await at the end.  Be patient and pay attention, everything little detail has its place.
• This is a personal preference, I wanted a bit more time Italy.  I was expecting the book to open and immediately take me to the Italian setting, but we don’t get there until the midway point.  Once there, it is a whirlwind and there wasn’t much time to settle in and enjoy the scenery.  Don’t worry this is not a bad thing, there is plenty of action and excitement instead of a grand tour.  
• I was hoping for a bit more insight into Heven’s mother and their relationship.  I can’t go into details here, but there is development but I want to see past the charade and get to the bottom of it.  I am curious as to whether their relationship will be salvaged after the events of Masquerade.  I am certain that more details are coming in the next book, I just need to be patient. 
• A new character, Gemma, is introduced.  Gemma is a fallen angel but she is guarded and hides her secrets.  I wanted desperately to know more about her.  Why she fell from Heaven and what happened to her?
• Finally, the end is a bit of a cliffhanger.  You all know how I dread the cliffhanger.  This wasn’t too terrible, but it did it’s job.  I am know eagerly waiting for the next installment, wondering what is in store for Heven and Sam.  Thankfully, the wait won’t be too terrible, as Book Three Tirade should hopefully be out early 2013.

Charade certainly does not disappoint.  Ms. Hebert has proven that Masquerade was no fluke.  This book has a rich, deep story line as well as fascinating characters who are playing a game of charade with the reader.  Can you guess their secrets?  In order to find out who is hiding what, you must enter into the pages of this book.  Don’t miss this fun and exciting series.  You can snag a copy of the prequel, Before on Amazon for free. Both Masquerade and Charade ebooks can be purchased for $2.99 on Amazon.  An excellent price for these fun novels!

Favorite Quotations:

“It was oddly gray outside and the trees looked black against the sky, making everything appear as though it was a scene from an old black-and-white postcard that has yellowed slightly from age.”

“I was standing in front of him, accepting who I am and exactly what he fought to ignore.”

“You don’t get it.  It isn’t part of me.  It’s a stranger.”

“He folded his arms around me and I sighed deeply.  This is where I fit, where I belonged, everything else was just details.”

“If you cannot breathe, I will breathe for you.  If your heart will not beat, mine will beat harder.  If you do not live, neither will I.”

“I loved this boy.  More than myself.  More than life.  More than anything.”

“I pretended not to, but pretending something wasn’t wrong didn’t make it go away.”

“Sam.  His eyes were like warm sunshine and his mouth was cured up in a smile.”

“Note to self: it is good defense to knee demons in their ‘man parts’.”

“I was afraid that when day arrived and the sun came out, it would shine light into all the shadows from the night before, revealing all that the darkness had hidden.”

“I shook my head.  The only thing that hurt was my chest, where my heart used to reside.”

Make sure to stop back by tomorrow for an exciting guest post from the Charade Tour with Cambria Hebert and some chickens!?  See you there!

Dark Frost (Mythos Academy #3) by Jennifer Estep

I’ve seen so many freaky things since I started attending Mythos Academy last fall. I know I’m supposed to be a fearless warrior, but most of the time, I feel like I’m just waiting for the next Bad, Bad Thing to happen. Like someone trying to kill me—again.Everyone at Mythos Academy knows me as Gwen Frost, the Gypsy girl who uses her psychometry magic to find lost objects—and who just may be dating Logan Quinn, the hottest guy in school. But I’m also the girl the Reapers of Chaos want dead in the worst way. The Reapers are the baddest of the bad, the people who murdered my mom. So why do they have it in for me?It turns out my mom hid a powerful artifact called the Helheim Dagger before she died. Now, the Reapers will do anything to get it back. They think I know where the dagger is hidden, but this is one thing I can’t use my magic to find. All I do know is that the Reapers are coming for me—and I’m in for the fight of my life.
Kindle Edition, 336 pages
Expected publication: May 29th 2012 by Kensington Books

Four Stars: More action,danger and a darker tone! 

Gwen, Daphne and Carson are touring the museum of history, viewing ancient artifacts in order to complete a school assignment.  It is the last day of Christmas break.  They are not alone in their procrastination, since the museum is packed with students from The Mythos Academy.  Everyone is hurrying to finish at the last minute.  In the weapons room, Gwen runs into Logan.  The two are excited to see each other and anxious to rekindle their relationship.  Before they have a chance to catch up, a scream erupts.  Reapers are storming the museum, slashing and killing everyone who stands in their way.  Gwen, Logan, Daphne and Carson put up a fight in the weapon's room.  Gwen ends up fighting the leader, who is also her mom's murderer.  Without warning, the remaining reapers flee, leaving in their wake numerous dead and injured victims.  Gwen picks up a paper dropped by the Reaper Girl, her magic flashes and she realizes the reapers are hunting for the dagger that was entrusted to her mother by Nike.  If the reapers find this dagger it will unlock the last seal that imprisons Loki.  If they manage to free Loki the world will plunge into chaos and war.  Gwen must find the dagger to prevent that from happening.  Can she find the dagger before the reapers and stop a war?

What I Liked:

• Dark Frost opens with a bang.  The first chapter drops you into a chaotic rampage by the reapers.  Needless to say, it is heart pounding, jaw dropping introduction.  Right away, it is evident that this book has a darker tone.  It has plenty of action, terror and edge of your seat scenes.  By far the most fast paced book.  
•  This novel is full of surprises and twists, unlike the last book where I was able to guess the villain right away.  This time around, Ms. Estep pulls some punches.  Get ready to be surprised, shocked and sad.  
•  The romance between Gwen and Logan is still the smoldering tension, so close to that  spark of ignition.  At times it is frustrating but on the other hand I like that it keeps me on my toes and guessing, instead of being insta love or worse a love triangle.  All I can say is be patient...wait for it! 
•  Gwen is still learning how to use her unique brand of magic, psychometry.  This time she is experimenting and learning how to wield it in other ways.  She is also becoming a better fighter.  Her growth over the last three books is remarkable.  
• This has been a fun series to read.  Quick and enjoyable.  For me, these books are a bit reminiscent of Harry Potter.  As I remarked earlier, they are not original but they still good.  If you are a fan of Harry Potter you might want to try this.  It features a teenage girl, trying to find her way in a magical school, while she is hunted by the Reapers who serve Loki the God of Chaos.  There is magic, mythology, danger, romance, talking swords, wolves and more. 
• This bears repeating, each book has a resolution and avoids the love triangle.  You can read the books as stand alones if you want, but of course, they are much better reading in sequence.  Still in a YA market flooded with cliffhangers and love triangles, this series is a nice departure. 
• I like that at the end of every book, there is a glossary that covers everything in the book in case you have questions.

And The Not So Much:

• I have enjoyed all the books in this series, but I would definitely recommend them for older young adult readers.  They have some sexual references, scenes with drinking and violence. 
• This book has a darker tone throughout.  There is not much light hearted fun in this one.  From the first pages you are plunged into fight scenes with the Reapers and there is more throughout.  Though it has a  more serious feel, the book is riveting and full of action.  This is pivotal book, the beginning of the storm yet to come.
• I can't go into details, but I will say this, Ms. Estep throws a big whammy toward the end that broke my heart.  

The Mythos Academy has proven to be a tried and true series for me.  All three books are exciting and entertaining.  I have enjoyed reading all the books.  If you are looking for something that is in the same vein as Harry Potter, but for an older audience, pick these up.  I am addicted to these books and I can definitely say that I will be reading book four, Crimson Frost when it debuts in 2013.  The stakes are higher than ever!

Favorite Quotations:

"Logan smiled at me, and it was like the sun had erupted from a sky full of storm clouds.  For a moment everything was just---perfect."

"In a way, touching her things was like losing my mom all over again--- a dozen little deaths packed into each and every box."

"That's what best friends are for, right? So we can be cranky together."

"There was a war coming---a war I had no idea how we were going to win."

"Pain is a part of life."

"It is difficult business, trying to save the world.  Some people must make sacrifices so that others can live and prosper."

"Somehow, over the past few months, it had become like a second home to me, a place

where I was slowly learning to fit in, a place where I was slowly learning to be strong."

Thank you to Kensington Publishing for providing me a review copy in exchange for an honest review.

Kiss of Frost (Mythos Academy #2) by Jennifer Estep

I’m Gwen Frost, a second-year warrior-in-training at Mythos Acad­emy, and I have no idea how I’m going to sur­vive the rest of the semes­ter. One day, I’m get­ting schooled in sword­play by the guy who broke my heart—the drop-dead gor­geous Logan who slays me every time. Then, an invis­i­ble archer in the Library of Antiq­ui­ties decides to use me for tar­get prac­tice. And now, I find out that some­one at the acad­emy is really a Reaper bad guy who wants me dead. I’m afraid if I don’t learn how to live by the sword—with Logan’s help—I just might die by the sword...
Paperback, 354 pages
Published November 29th 2011 by Kensington

 

Four stars: The second book in what is becoming an addictive little series.

Kiss of Frost picks up shortly after the thrilling conclusion of Touch of Frost.  Gwen is still settling in at the Mythos Academy.  At least she has gone from being completely ignored to a girl with a couple of friends, including Daphne the Valkyrie.  She is frustrated and uncertain where things stand with the handsome Spartan, Logan.  He has gone back to being distant and unavailable.  Gwen is painfully aware that the Reapers are out to get her, now more than ever.  When she sneaks off campus to visit Grandma Frost, she is almost run over by a speeding black SUV.  Later that night while finishing up her shift at the library, an arrow is shot at her head, just narrowly missing.  Gwen is certain a Reaper is hunting her.  She just needs to find out who.  The entire school is headed to an expensive ski resort for a Winter Carnival and a fun weekend of partying and skiing.  Gwen doesn't want to go, but Daphne assures her it will be fun and safe.  What could possibly wrong?

What I Liked:

•  This is a surprisingly fun and addictive series.  I can't say that it is original, but it has good characters, mystery and a magical setting.  All of these elements combine to form an exciting story line.  If you are looking for a fun series with magic and danger, pick this one up.
•  I love the blending of Greek mythology into the story.  It is filled with all kinds of references to Greek mythology.  If you enjoy mythology, this is a good series for you.
•  I am appreciating Gwen's growth.  She is slowly dealing with her mother's death and finding her footing at the academy.  She used to be the girl everyone ignored but now she has a couple of friends and allies and she has caught the eye of the most dashing guy in school.  I love watching her come out of her shell more and more as the story progresses.  She is even becoming adept at wielding her talking sword, Vic.
•  Speaking of talking swords, Vic is more prominent in this book and his commentary is hilarious.  He is a unique addition to the story.  Who wouldn't want a talking sword with a British accent?
•  I am fascinated with Gwen's magical abilities.  Her Gypsy gift is psychometry, meaning that she receives the memories and imprints from all the people who have touched an item when she touches it.  This type of magic is different and interesting.  I am enjoying how her magic is evolving and how she is learning to use it in new and exciting ways.  There are hints that it could change even further. I will be excited to follow up and see what else Gwen can do with her abilities.
•  This book has a romance that is full of smoking tension.  It is obvious that Gwen and Logan are into each other, but there relationship is full of drama, second guessing and electric sparks, leaving the reader in a constant state of agitation wondering if it will ignite or not.
•  This is another book where the secondary characters are an excellent addition.  I love Grandma Frost, she bakes such wonderful goodies.  Daphne and her band geek boyfriend, Carson are so cute.  I also enjoyed Oliver once I got to know him better. 
•  Finally, the big draw to these books is they are fun and they refrain from cliffhangers and love triangles.  If you are looking for a series that omits these two dastardly aspects, get these books. 

And The Not So Much:

• Overall I appreciate Gwen's growth and her ability to stand on her own two feet.  There were a couple of times in this book, though that I was irritated with her stupid decisions.  She put herself into danger and it left me scratching my head wondering why she would behave like an idiot.  Luckily, she redeems herself later in the book.
• Unfortunately, this book introduces a villain and I just knew from the first meeting that this guy was no good. It was too easy to see the signs, so the big reveal was a fizzle. 
• What is up with the statues? Each book Gwen is always getting the feeling that there is more to these statues than meets the eye, yet nothing has happened.  I am dying to know if they are indeed magical. 
• This book is better suited for more mature YA readers.  There are scenes that involve teenage drinking and partying.  If you prefer that your young reader not be exposed to that type of behavior, then you should pass.

The Mythos Academy is an entertaining, fast paced series that will keep you engaged with it's blend of mystery, magic, romance and supernatural elements.  If you are looking for a series that avoids love triangles and cliffhangers, you should check out these books.  While they may not be incredibly original, they are light and fun and just right when you need a quick and easy read.  I am surprised at how much I am liking this series and happy that I have a copy of book three, Dark Frost waiting for me.  

Favorite Quotations:

"You be careful.  It's a wicked old world out there."

"It was the same way I always smiled at him---with my heart in my eyes for everyone to see."

"A soft breeze carried a sharp metallic tang with it, whispering that even more of the white stuff was on the way."

"She reached out and clasped my hand, rubbing it in her spotted, wrinkled one, and I felt the warmth of her love wash over me, driving away everything that was cold, dark and scary.  At least for tonight."

"I'd done so well during the battle that Vic now had some far-fetched hope that I'd turn out to be a "right proper brawler after all."

"Every creature, mortal and god alike, has free will.  It's what we choose to do with that will that defines us, that makes us who we are, good or bad."

 

 

Even though this is against my better judgement, I am going to share with you one of the very first reviews that I wrote last year before I started my blog.  Even though I am tempted to alter it, I am posting it as it is to demonstrate how over time your reviews will gradually improve.

Touch of Frost (Mythos Academy #1) by Jennifer Estep

My name is Gwen Frost, and I go to Mythos Academy — a school of myths, magic and warrior whiz kids, where even the lowliest geek knows how to chop off somebody's head with a sword and Logan Quinn, the hottest Spartan guy in school, also happens to be the deadliest.

But lately, things have been weird, even for Mythos. First, mean girl Jasmine Ashton was murdered in the Library of Antiquities. Then, someone stole the Bowl of Tears, a magical artifact that can be used to bring about the second Chaos War. You know, death, destruction and lots of other bad, bad things. Freaky stuff like this goes on all the time at Mythos, but I'm determined to find out who killed Jasmine and why—especially since I should have been the one who died. .
Paperback, 350 pages
Published August 1st 2011 by Kensington Publishing Corp. (first published July 26th 2011)

Four Stars: I highly recommend this book. This is a fun beginning to a new series.

What I liked:

• This is a book about a young girl's self discovery. The novel opens with Gwen struggling to adapt to her new life at the Mythos academy. As the book progresses she slowly makes friends and finally discovers the key to her psychometric magic and her purpose in life. Gwen transforms from the geeky loner Gypsy girl to a strong champion who is destined to fight Chaos. 
• The concept of the Mythos Academy; a school where descendants of the Greek heroes, warriors and legends attend in order to learn how to use their powers to fight evil and chaos in the world. I loved the mysterious setting. Things are not what they seem in this place where myths are reality. I am still convinced there is more to the statues than meets the eye.
•  Vic the snappy talking sword. I wish there had been more of him in the story. I am looking forward to hearing his quips in upcoming books. 
• Logan, the sexy Spartan, who always comes to the rescue. Will he and Gwen get it right and get together? 
• Daphne, the Valkyrie warrior princess. I truly appreciated her transformation. Her character growth made the mean girl theme tolerable in this book. Loved the snappy pink sparks.

 And The Not So Much:

• The whole mean girl storyline. While it did work in the novel, for me a book with the unique concept of the Mythos academy; where ancient Greece comes alive, the high school mean girl story is trite.
• Some repetition. I felt I was reading certain things over and over. The book kept revisiting Gwen's guilt over her mother's death. I thought this discussion was overdone. I also got tired of reading lines about shivering from fear. 
• Some of the sexual references were a little graphic for young teenagers. Due to this content I would recommend this for older teenage readers.

This book on the whole was a quick, fun, satisfying read. There were no big twists or surprises. I am truly grateful that all the story lines followed through and for the most part resolved at the end. I have a new appreciation for author's who provide an ending to their novels instead of resorting to the dreaded cliffhanger ploy. Yet, the story is compelling so I will read the next release in the series; Kiss of Frost on December 1, 2011. This a fun creative book that is a good stand alone novel. However, I am certain with this strong debut many fans will be clamoring for the next release. I will be among those avid fans.

Cornerstone (Cornerstone #1) by Misty Provencher Tour Stop and Giveaway

Nalena Maxwell has been branded ‘The Waste’ at her new school, due to her mom's obsessive paper hoarding. Nalena desperately wants something to change in her life, but when she receives a sign (and it's the wrong dang one) inviting her into a mysterious, ancient community, too much changes. What she knew of her family, what she thought of her life and what she believed about her future, is no longer applicable. Seventeen years worth of family skeletons come crashing into Nalena's life and it is the boy...the one that smiles at her like he wants to hear everything she'll ever say...that already knows her powerful secrets. But it is only Nalena that can choose between protecting the life that is already crumbling beneath her feet and the one that might sacrifice everything she could ever have.
 Kindle Edition, 219 pages
 Published November 7th 2011

 

Five Stars: This is an indie book that you must read!

Nalena walks home from school.  She shifts her heavy backpack on her shoulder as she struggles to balance the three reams of paper in her other hand.  She detests paper day.  Every week she stops at the office supply store to pick up three packs of paper for her mother.  Despite the fact that her home is filled with stacks and stacks of paper.  Everywhere you look, including the oven and the furniture there are piles of papers.  Nalena hates that her mother hoards paper, but she can't say no to her, either.  Her mother is her rock and together they face the world and weather the storm.  Even when they lost their home due the stacks of paper, they managed.  Even though the paper hoarding has earned her the nickname "The Waste" at school, Nalena loves her mother and stands by her side. At night, Nalena goes to the library to study.  It is the only place where she can spread out and be free from the paper.  She is all settled at her quiet, hidden away table when a handsome boy approaches and sits down.  She expects that he is there waiting for someone.  He refuses to leave despite her repeated requests.  

The next night he is back.  On a return trip from the bathroom, she hears Garrett arguing with the pretty head cheerleader, Jen.  She admonishes him for hanging out with "The Waste", but he refuses to listen and even defends Nali.  Nali can't take it anymore. She flees the library leaving her things behind.  In the darkened woods without her flashlight, she loses her way.  A hand clamps onto her in the woods and a man in a mask tries to attack her.  He strikes her arm and pain envelopes her.  Suddenly, Garrett is there, rescuing her.  Garrett rushes her home to get her mom and then they head to the hospital.  Soon Nalena's view of the world comes crashing down as she learns that her mother has been keeping some big, important secrets, and that there may be more to the paper than meaningless scribbles.  What is the purpose of the paper? 

What I Liked:

• I love finding fantastic indie books.  I know it often feels like trying to find a needle in the haystack, but when you do find one that astounds you, it makes the search worth the time.  Cornerstone is one of those magical finds.  If you like indie books, read this one.  You won't be disappointed, especially since you can get a copy on Amazon right now for $.99.  This book will amaze you.  Not to mention it is properly edited and you would never know it was a self pubbed book. Truly, I can't imagine a publisher not wanting to snatch this one up.
• I was blown away by this book.  It starts out focusing on Nalena and her mother's paper hoarding.  Once Garrett shows up and Nalena is attacked, the book takes a big turn and the story heads in a completely new direction that surprised me.  I was expecting to read a book about a girl suffering from the endless ridicule because of her mother's habit and what a got was a riveting read with an interesting paranormal twist.  I had no idea the book would take such an interesting direction.  I was completely glued to this book!
• Garrett, ladies let me tell you if you are looking for a swoon worthy adorable male lead, Garrett is it!  He is absolutely wonderful.  Not only did I love Garrett, I also adored his brothers, especially Sean.  I found it particularly funny that at Garrett's house there are four hot boys so at their house, the phone is always ringing and the girls are often too shy to speak, so the boys have a funny, unique way to answer the phone. 
• Toward the end of the story, a guru type gentleman is introduced known as the Addo. This guy is exactly the opposite of what you would expect from a wise old man.  He wears sweats, tube socks and sandals, and eats an exorbitant amount of cookies, while giving his own brand of sage advice.  I loved this character. 
• This book has one of those romances that keeps you guessing, it is a slow builder filled with sparks and tension and when it finally blooms it is magic.  If you are tired of insta-love and love triangles you will enjoy this one. 

And The Not So Much:

• I have very few criticisms for this book.  I only wished that I had a better grasp on the secret society.  How big and widespread is it?  Has it always existed?  Are people only born into it or can they be recruited?  I wanted to know a bit more about the other types of people besides the Contego, the Alo and the Addo.  
• I was curious as to why all the records by the Alo were recorded on paper instead of computer and what happened to all the information?  Did it just stay in storage? I needed just a touch more clarification on this. 

If you are in a bit of a reading rut and you are looking hungrily for something exciting, I highly recommend Cornerstone.  It is a book that has an imaginative an unexpected storyline, along with terrific characters.  The secondary characters are just as engaging as the protagonists.  The ideas presented in this book left my head spinning.  I can hardly wait to dive into book two.  Go get a copy of this right now on Amazon will you can still snatch it up for $.99! 

Favorite Quotations: 

"My dad's just a frozen smile in a brushed-brass frame on our living room wall."

"The windows are only covered with a film of milky dust and the porch is as rickety as an old man's mouth."

"Maybe the only things he hears about is the stuff that directly concerns him, like cheerleader breeding rituals or soccer stats."

"I try to listen to them talk.  I'd like to hear every word that Garrett says, but  my thoughts drift like feathers in a fan."

"His touch is a color.  Indigo.  It is more gentle than the fluid sky of his eyes and warmer than the midnight ink of his hair."

"I wait with the ache deepening every second that the heat of his mouth scribbles across my cheek."

"Following rumors with the truth is like having a banana split for dinner and broccoli for dessert."

"The music begins with the muted chords of a guitar; the beat as deep and dark as shadows."

"There's no way for Garrett to know that she's probably got enough padding her bra to stuff a mattress."

"His kiss kiss is a color too.  Silver.  Like raw wires held together until they explode in sparks."   

I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. 

I was approached a couple of months ago by fellow blogger, Candace.  She told me about this extraordianry book and asked me to be part of the tour and I am so glad she did.  This book is extraordinary.  Misty is currently on tour.  Click on the banner to check out other stops.  You can find Misty on her blog, FB, Twitter and Goodreads.  Be sure to head to her blog and enter to win her grand prize giveaway.  While you are there you can read the first five chapters for free. Today she has generously allowed my to host a giveaway on her behalf.  She is offering for one lucky U.S. entrant a signed paperback copy and one Ebook for International entrants.  Big thanks to Misty!  Enter the Rafflecopter to enter.  See Contest Policies for all details!  Good Luck!

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Of Poseidon(Of Poseidon #1) by Anna Banks

Galen, a Syrena prince, searches land for a girl he's heard can communicate with fish. It’s while Emma is on vacation at the beach that she meets Galen. Although their connection is immediate and powerful, Galen's not fully convinced that Emma's the one he's been looking for. That is, until a deadly encounter with a shark proves  that Emma and her Gift may be the only thing that can save his kingdom. He needs her help--no matter what the risk.
Hardcover, 324 pages
Published May 22nd 2012 by Feiwel & Friends

Four stars: A fun little book featuring the mythical Syrena...

Emma is rushing down the dock to get to the beach.  Emma is not known for being graceful.  She is so busy juggling her stuff and trying to keep her pesky flip flops securely on her feet, that she fails to see the handsome boy directly in her path.  She collides into his chest and almost dies of embarrassment.  It is bad enough to walk into a complete stranger in a throng of people, but add in that this boy is gorgeous and her humiliation increases ten fold.  Her pale cheeks flame and she wishes lightning would strike her at that moment.  To add insult to injury, her best friend Chloe points out that this boy's eyes match Emma's unique eye color: violet.  Emma slinks away before she dies of embarrassment, wishing that Chloe would just disappear.  The two friends traipse to the ocean unaware that the violet eyed boy is watching them.  The pair float on the surfboard, finally making up and then out of the blue, a shark attacks.  Terrified Emma fights to save her friend, not knowing that the boy is in the water watching her battling the shark.  He is shocked to see Emma's strange ability.  Weakened, Emma sinks, but the boy darts down and retrieves her.  Galen, is convinced that Emma is from the sea, one of his people, a Syrena.  He enrolls in her school determined to find out more about this light haired, violet eyed girl.  Is Emma more than just a mere human?  Is she indeed a Syrena?

What I Liked:

• I have been searching for a long time for a mermaid type book that I really enjoyed.  I was happy to finally find a good book in Of Poseidon.  I liked that the author spins an interesting tale featuring two divided kingdoms inhabited by the Syrena.  I appreciated that the author created her own unique vision instead of following the traditional mermaid theme. 
• I liked the developing romance between Galen and Emma.  It is one where there is an intense physical attraction, we are talking sizzling lava like sparks, but the two never seem to be on the same page.  It is one of those romances where the pair dances around their true feelings and it starts out shaky and hesitant and takes its sweet time blooming.  You never know from one page to the next where things stand between them.  The tension between them is electric. 
• I enjoyed the secondary characters, Rachel, Toraf and even the super sassy Rayna.  Rachel is Galen's human go to girl.  She is sweet, bubbly and funny.  I really liked her character.  Toraf is Galen's best friend and hopefully soon to be brother in law.  He is the charming and often hilarious sidekick.  Finally, Rayna, Galen's headstrong sister.  She takes awhile to warm up to because at first she seems like a real pain in the butt, but as the book progresses I found myself appreciating her antics.  I like that Ms. Banks writes secondary characters that are just as exciting as the protagonists.
• Emma's funny, slightly sarcastic voice is what immediately drew me into this book.  She made me giggle in the opening pages as she describes in great detail her humiliating run in with Galen.  She is a bit of a klutz and is constantly blushing.  I liked that she was a bit awkward but headstrong and independent as well. 
• I appreciated the author took time to create a history for the Syrena and how she explained the lineages of Poseidon and Triton.  Not only does Ms. Banks weave history and mythology into the story, she also adds some scientific details.  I really enjoyed reading about the biological and physical attributes associated with the Syrena.  Ms. Banks crafts a believable tale.
• This book is told from the alternating view points of Emma and Galen.  The author does a great job with the switching voices and it works well in this book. I appreciated that I was able to see things through both character's eyes, it really enriched the read for me. 

And The Not So Much:

• Sigh, a cliffhanger....why do you have to ruin a great book with the dreaded cliffhanger?  I was excited as I neared the end and had the pieces snapped in place and I knew what the big reveal was going to be, but the book stops right at that moment. A dig disappointment!  Yet, she caught my attention!
• I can't say that I totally believed the situation with Emma's mother.  I can't go into too much detail here, but I didn't buy that her mother seemed completely clueless when it came to Galen.  
• I wished that the book had provided a bit more detail on what life was like for the Syrena under the sea in their realms.  I wanted to know more about what Galen, Rayna and Toraf's lives were like when they were at home.  You never get a full picture of life beneath the waves. 

Of Poseidon ended up being one of the first mermaid type books that I enjoyed.  This book has mystery, a tension filled electric romance, and the Syrena.  If you are looking for a good book featuring mermaids, I would recommend this one.  Ms. Banks offers up a unique tale with a funny female protagonist who inevitably will make you smile.  Add in a hot male lead and you have the beginnings of great story.  Watch out for the cliffhanger, it certainly caught my attention and I can say I will be reading the sequel!

Favorite Quotations: 

"Options skim through my head like a flip book."

"Option One: Run away as fast as my dollar-store flip-flops can take me.  Thing is, tripping over them is partly responsible for my current dilemma."

"Option Two: Pretend I've fainted.  Go limp and everything.  Drool even."

"Morning tide makes a great companion when you don't want to be around people.  It soothes and comforts and doesn't ask for anything."

"I am... embarrassed?  No.  Embarrassed is when you spill ketchup on your crotch and it leaves a red stain in a suspicious area."

"The heat simmers between me and wraps around me like a winter coat."

"No matter now many times I tell him I can't see into the water yet, he insists I'm just trying to get a look at his eel."

"Humans are creepier than I thought.  Why pretend to be something you're not?"

"Out of the corner of his eyes, he sees the eruption of pink spreading like spilled paint over her face."

"Shoving it in my purse---the pockets of my skinny jeans must just be for show 'cause nothing else is fitting in there---"

"The wind laces through the dune grass, like it's whispering a secret he's not meant to hear."

Thank you to Feiwel & Friends for providing me with a review copy in exchange for am honest review. 

The Girl in the Clockwork Collar (Steampunk Chronicles #2) by Cady Cross

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.

Hardcover, 416 pages

Expected publication: May 22nd 2012 by Harlequin

Four stars: More action, more steampunk and more danger in this sequel. 

After Jasper Renn, the American Cowboy, was hauled off by a bunch of thug bounty hunters, the gang is in pursuit, headed to New York City.  Jasper was taken prisoner accused of murder.  Griffin and Finley refuse to believe their loyal friend is guilty of this crime.  So they are currently aboard Griffin's airship gliding over the glittering city.  Once Griffin, Finley, Sam and Emily settle in New York, they head to the jail in search of Jasper.  Strange he isn't at the jail.....Meanwhile, a battered and bruised Jasper is currently residing in the home of his former boss, Dalton, as a prisoner.  Dalton is the leader of a gang of ruffians and he is certainly not an upstanding citizen.  It seems that Jasper double crossed Dalton by stealing and dismantling a strange invention that he helped Dalton procure.  Jasper had no idea what the device was designed to do, but he had a feeling it wasn't for anything good.  Now, Jasper's criminal past has come back to haunt him and at a steep price.  Dalton is demanding that he recover the pieces.  If he fails to do so, the girl who once stole his heart, Mei Xing, may die, strangled by the clockwork collar she is forced to wear by Dalton, her captor.  Enter in Finley and the rest of the gang.  They plan to recover their friend and determine if he is indeed guilty.  To do so, Finley infiltrates Dalton's gang and enters into a dangerous game of cat and mouse.  Will she succeed in freeing the cowboy?

What I Liked:

• This book picks up right where the first leaves off.  All the characters and elements I loved from The Girl in the Steel Corset return in this sequel. There are more interesting steampunk inventions as well as the continued camaraderie of the four friends.  Finley Jayne is tough as nails and she find herself in the middle of numerous fights and scuffles.  I love reading about this kick butt heroine. 
• I liked that this book was full of surprises.  I was caught off guard by several big reveals.  First impressions are often wrong in this book!  
• The romance is a more prevalent in this book, but it takes its sweet time.  What started as small sparks between Finley and Griffin has turned into a smoldering tension that runs throughout the novel.  The two dance around their kindling feelings, hesitating..and you are on the edge of your seat wondering if those smoldering sparks will ignite into a full blaze. Ms. Cross does an excellent job creating a romance that keeps you guessing. If you like relationships that are slow building and wrought with tension, you  will enjoy the dynamic between Finley and Griffin.
• I appreciate that this series not only has great characters, good story lines and fun steampunk elements but the best part is that the novels are written so that they can be stand alone books.  There are no cliffhangers and they resolve neatly.  Yet, they build upon each other.  I am all for a series that avoids the dreaded non resolutive endings. 

And The Not So Much:

• I just don't believe that any of the main characters are teenagers.  I think Ms. Cross created them as teens so that this series could be labeled as Young Adult.  The problem is that they do not act like teenagers, more like they are in their twenties.  All four of the characters are mature, capable and dealing with issues more suited for adults.  This series excels beyond the typical YA boundaries and I personally don't really see it fitting well into the classification.  There is absolutely nothing appropriate about these books so they can be read by youth as well as adults.  Don't let this keep you from reading these books, they are so much fun.  Just don't expect a book with a typical teen related issues. 
• I was excited that this book was coming to America and I especially wanted to see how the author envisioned New York City at the end of the 1800's.  Unfortunately, the city is just a backdrop and there is little description or detail on New York during this time period.  I wish that she had showcased New York City more.   
• The final showdown felt a touch rushed.  The book builds to this big climatic showdown and it is over in an instant.  I was expecting a bit more in the final scene.  

The Girl in the Clockwork Collar lives up to its predecessor.  This is an action packed adventure set at the end of the 19th century in New York.  When gangs dominated the city and guns and fists were often the way to settle disputes.  Add in a dash of romance, a dose of steampunk and a strong camaraderie and you have the framework for an exciting sequel.  If you have yet to dive into steampunk, The Steampunk Chronicles by Kady Cross are an excellent way to immerse yourself into the genre.   

Favorite Quotations:

"Spread out before them---just beyond the ship's lanterns---was a blanket of lights.  It looked like stars covered the ground, and set a short distance from it all was the largest lady she'd ever seen, the glow from her torch illuminating from her raised hand to just the top of her crowned head."

"New York looked like someone had captured the stars and dragged them down to Earth."

"Her mouth hung open like an old door off its hinge."

"When she moved around to the front of the desk, he saw that she was wearing and evening gown that fit her almost perfectly and and made her skin look as smooth as cream."

"I know thinking the worst of people makes it hurt less when they disappoint you, lad, but not everything is at it seems."

 "Either she was a good actress or she truly didn't trust him any further than she could throw a buffalo."

"A fella couldn't outrun his past, no matter how fast he was."

"When the stormy blue of his gaze locked with her own, it was as though her heart fell over."

"The two of you are like a twister colliding with a mountain."

"You want a torch or a candle, maybe?  You've got your head so far up your own arse, it must be dark in there."

"She tasted like the strawberries they'd had for dessert, and she smelled of fresh air and cinnamon."

A big thanks to Harlequin Teen for the review copy in exchange for an honest review. 

The Girl in the Steel Corset (Steampunk Chronicles #1) by Kady Cross

She thought there was something wrong with her. She was right.Finley Jayne has known for quite some time that she isn’t ‘normal,’ but when she beats up the son of her employer and is forced to flee, she stumbles into a world where there are bigger freaks than her. They take her in, treat her like family and demand her trust. How can Finley trust them when she can’t trust herself? And why is she drawn to the powerful Griffin as well as the dangerous Jack? She has to get herself under control before she gets into trouble she can’t get out of.Griffin King is one of the most powerful men in Britain but he couldn’t save his best friend from almost dying. He is determined to save Finley and help her become the person he knows she can be, but there’s evil afoot in London. Machines have attacked humans under the orders of a nefarious criminal called The Machinist. He has sworn to protect his country against such a threat, but he’s never faced any foe like this. However, when he discovers The Machinist’s connection to his past, Griffin vows to end the villain once and for all — but he’ll need the help of all his friends, including the beautiful Finley Jayne – the girl in the steel corset.
Paperback, 480 pages
Published April 17th 2012 by Harlequin (first published May 24th 2011)

Four Stars: This book is so much fun. Lots of steampunk, great characters and a mystery. 

Dread washes over Finley Jayne as the son of her employer leers toward in the darkened hall.  As a servant girl in the house, she is up late prepping a dress for her mistress.  On the way back to her room, She runs into the drunk Lionel.  He has one thing on his mind.  Unfortunately for him, he doesn't know that Finley isn't a timid maid. He strikes her cheek, drawing blood.  Finley's dark side awakens and strikes. In seconds he is pummeled and knocked unconscious.  Terrified, Finley flees the mansion knowing that she is in deep trouble.  She dashes out into the street so consumed by her fear that she doesn't see the velocycle rushing towards her.  The driver collides with the frightened maid and she blacks out.  Lord Griffith stands over the girl.  His instinct tells him that there is something different and important about this servant girl, lying battered and bleeding at his feet.  Against his best friend Sam's wishes, he decides to trust his gut and take the girl home.  When Finley Jayne wakes, it is quickly apparent that she is not a normal girl.  She is a young lady with two sides, one dark and one light.  Rage and fear awaken the dark beast inside her and she fights the servants.  Once she is calmed, Griffith finds himself drawn to this lovely girl with two halves.  Can Griffith help Finley Jayne control her personality, while he tries to stop the terrifying random machine attacks throughout London? 

What I Liked:

• I picked up this book last summer, drawn to the gorgeous cover (yes, I know shallow of me).  Why I let it languish so long in my reading pile is beyond me.  Perhaps I was afraid this was just another disappointing read behind a pretty cover.  Luckily, I was wrong.  This book was great fun.  It has mystery, steampunk, two awesome smart kickbutt girls and more.  I really enjoyed this book. 
• I am still new to the whole steampunk genre, but I can honestly say so far this has been my favorite.  Ms. Cross includes some fantastic steampunk elements.  My favorites were the steel corset and the robot cat.  These are just two of the many unique and clever steampunk contraptions in this book.  If you are fan of steampunk, I highly recommend you give this book a read.  I only wish that this novel had pictures of all this great stuff.  The steel corset sounds lovely with its intricate flowers and unique design.  Who says protective gear can't be fashionable? 
• Ms. Cross creates great characters.  Finley Jayne with her unique affliction is able to fight her way out of danger.  She can beat up almost anyone.  If you love strong female leads, Finley Jayne won't disappoint.  I really adored Emily, she is an intelligent Irish lass who is a skilled mechanic, inventor and even a medic.  I loved that both the female characters were smart, strong and very capable and that they possessed qualities that are usually associated with men.  The two gents, Sam and Griffith round out the group and they are fascinating, considering that they both have some interesting abilities and secrets as well.   
• This is a retelling of Jekyll and Hyde except with a twist.  This time the afflicted is a young girl, Finley, and she has no knowledge of the how or why she has a dual personality.  I had fun uncovering the secrets of her personality, as well as watching her battle her dark side.  I admit, I loved it when her dark side took control.  I completely enjoyed this new spin on an old classic.
• This book presents a plot with layers of subplots.  There is the focus on Finley and her condition, the conflict that Sam is waging with himself, the attacks by the machines, the solving of the murder mystery and the unmasking of the machinist.  I always appreciate books with layers of story lines and this book provides plenty of threads to follow. 
• Finally, I was thrilled that Ms. Cross provides a nice resolution while providing some interesting new ideas to follow up on in the sequel.  No cliffhanger! 
• For the record, I love the name Finley Jayne!

And The Not So Much:

• If you are looking for a good romance, this might be a disappointment.  There isn't a complete development of a romantic relationship.  Instead Ms. Cross teases us with potential sparks and promises.  She keeps you guessing as to whether or not Finley will fall for a certain gentleman or not.  On a side note, there is a tiny flame between two of the secondary characters, which I liked. 
• This book sort of tries to present a love triangle but it is not established.  Finley's dark side draws her to Jack Dandy, a criminal leader in the underworld.  I adored Jack.  There was something about this bad boy that just made me smile.  He is charming and believe it or not a gentleman, but one that must be handled carefully, he is a bad boy after all.  I loved the way he talked, especially his pet name for Finley which is "Treasure".  I wanted more of Mr. Dandy. 
• I was left with a couple of nagging questions.  One was who was the murderer of Finley's assailant?  Another sticking point was Jasper Renn.  He is an American Cowboy, but he remains a mystery.  He seems to have some unique abilities of his own that are never disclosed.  However, at the end of the book it was apparent that the sequel is going to focus on Jasper.  Hopefully, I will get the answers to my questions. 
• This novel is labeled as Young Adult.  I personally think that this book is beyond the YA label.  Not due to inappropriate content, but because it transcends the normal YA classifications.  The characters are mature and act like adults even though they are young and the plot itself is beyond the typical YA lines.  This is a book that can be enjoyed by adults as well as young adults.  Don't let the YA label deter you if you typically steer clear of YA books, this is a book that will appeal to fans of all ages. 

The Girl in the Steel Corset was a fast and thrilling read.  If you love steampunk, you will appreciate all the imaginative gadgets and gizmos as well as the references to corsets, gloves, hairpins and all the fashion that steampunk enthusiasts adore.  This book is more than a pretty cover and I enjoyed the fantastic multi layered story line.  If you have been considering this book, waste no more time, get it! I am glad that I have book two, The Girl in the Clockwork Collar to tear into next!

Favorite Quotations:

"An aura of danger clung to her like an oil slick.  Unfortunately, he couldn't tell if she was in danger, or if she was danger."

"Pencils were excellent for hairstyling.  They also made very effective weapons if the need arose."

"Watching his expression change was like watching thunderclouds suddenly blot out the entire sky."

"She had to be family because she and Griff had the same eyes---like a spring sky about to be taken over by storm clouds."

"She'll never be able to be part of something while she's two halves of a broken whole."

"I promise you I will be careful with my affections, but beyond that I can offer nothing else.  I cannot tell my heart what to feel."

"She's two personas struggling for dominance in one body."

"Although, Dandy could be very charming, and girls seemed to like the dangerous fellows---some foolish rot about reformed rakes making the best husbands."

"It was like someone lit a candle inside him, a small flickering flame that warmed him from inside out."

Shapeshifter's Secret by Heather Ostler Guest Post, Giveaway and Review

Today I am happy to welcome author, Heather Ostler.  She is getting ready to release her novel, The Shapeshifter's Secret in June.  She is currently on tour to promote her book.  Please click on the banner to find other stops on her blog tour.  

I am lucky enough to have Heather here today to share with us a fun little post about werecats.  Werecats are at the center of her book and I must admit they are fascinating.  Make sure to enter to win an ebook copy at the end of Heather's post.  

Now here is Heather:

Secret Werecat Identities Revealed! 

I’ve been researching werecat shapeshifters for years. Little information is known about these creatures that can transform from humans to werecats in seconds. However, I have finally discovered some important werecat identities. 

Listed below are the werecat identities of some of the most famous and prominent people in history. These figures decided to keep the truth about their werecat a secret for one reason or another, but now they will finally be revealed.    

Abraham Lincoln: One of the most beloved presidents, and panther werecat. Lincoln used his werecat abilities, which included easily staying hidden and a heightened sense of hearing, to spy, helping him to fight against enemies in the civil war. 

 

Amelia Earhart: Aviation pioneer, author, and jaguar werecat. Many are mystified by the disappearance of Amelia, and some believe that she assumed a new identity. Perhaps her disappearance was connected with her dream of running away and living freely as a werecat. 

Michael Jackson: Famous recording artist, entertainer, and tiger werecat. Michael is perhaps one of the most obvious werecats. In his music video, Thriller, he wears a complete and terrifying werecat costume (or is it?). Was he subconsciously telling the world what he was?

Elvis Presley: The king of rock and roll, cultural icon, and tiger werecat. Elvis gave the world a hint of his identity when he released the song TIGER MAN. Here are some of the lyrics: 

I am the king of the jungle
They call me the tiger man
I am the king of the jungle
They call me tiger man
If you cross my path
You take your own life in your hands.

 

Hopefully I’ve enlightened you just a little more about the secret world of werecats! 

Wow! Who knew! Thanks Heather for sharing that enlightening post with us.  If you want to know more about Heather or her book, The Shapeshifter's Secret you can find her on her blog, author website, publisher's page, and twitter.  Shapeshifter's Secret will be released on June 12th.   

A big thanks to Heather for being here today.  I am lucky enough to be able to offer to you an ebook copy of Heather's book.  That's right you can get it before it releases in June. Just fill out the Rafflecopter form to enter.  See Contest Policies for details.  Good Luck! 
See my review below:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

The Shapeshifter's Secret by Heather Ostler

Julia is finally discovering what–not who–she is.Like any sixteen-year-old, Julia's used to dealing with problems. From her overprotective father to her absent mother to a teacher who definitely has it in for her. But everything changes when Julia's reactions become oddly vicious and angry---more animal than human. This action-packed adventure has it all: humor, romance, and a plot that will keep you guessing to the very last page.
Paperback, 1st Edition, 328 pages
Expected publication: June 12th 2012 by Cedar Fort

 

1/2

Three and a half stars: A new series featuring an exciting creature: Werecats!

Julia is a typical sixteen year old except that she is under the constant, careful watch of her father.  An inconvenience she has learned to live with, until a handsome new boy at school, Caleb, comes along and alerts her dad that she is sneaking out of her room.  She comes home to bars on her window.  Great! Her life is getting more confusing by the minute.  Julia is constantly butting heads with her awful English teacher.  She tries to keep her head down and survive another class but when her horrendous teacher singles her out and gives her an inappropriate grade, she loses it.  Her anger surges up inside of her, building until she feels like she is losing control.  She attacks a fellow student and tosses a desk across the room.  Terrified, she runs out of the school and heads to the park behind her house.  She lays on the ground, trembling, overcome by her emotions, and then a voice calls out to her.  It is Caleb....then blackness and she remembers no more.  When she wakes she is in her room.  How did she get here?  What happened? She confronts her father and learns he has been hiding a big secret from her.  Julia is not a normal girl.  She is in fact a shapeshifter, a werecat.  Not only is she a werecat but she comes from a different world.  One that can only be reached by portals.  Suddenly, the house is under attack and Julia is forced to flee with Caleb.  The pair head to Ossai, the world of the werecats and Julia's birthplace.  This is just the beginning.  Soon Julia learns that she has been hidden away for her protection.  There is a deadly rift in the Ossai government and the leader of the opposing guild is out to get Julia.  Who or what is hunting Julia?

What I Liked:

• I am always on the hunt for a new paranormal entity.  Ms. Ostler provided me with a novel creature, the werecat.  While shapeshifter's are nothing new, I enjoyed this new take.  An entire world and species of people able to shift into giant cats, from panthers to tigers and everything in between.  If you are looking for a book with something different, give The Shapeshifter's Secret a try.
• I liked that this blended several ideas, shapeshifter's, hidden world, sirens and nymphs, magic and a magical castle that serves as a type of boarding school.  There are many fun elements in this book as well as a mystery to unravel. 
• I appreciated that this book has a relatively neat resolution, yet the author plants ideas for the sequel.  Any book that avoids the cliffhanger is worth the read in my book. 
• I enjoyed learning about the werecats, their abilities and how they shift from human to werecat.  This was one of my favorite aspects of the book.  I really had fun reading the chapter that takes place during the Transformation Class as it describes a shape shifting duel. 

And The Not So Much:

• This book moves along at a quick clip, which is usually not a problem, but for me the story flowed too quickly.  The fast pace didn't allow for much exploration and development.  I wished that some aspects were slowed down and explained better.  The rushed narrative is straightforward and lacks the details and beautiful writing that I  love.  
• The romance between Terrence and Julia is sudden.  They meet, he catches her eye, they go on a walk about the school grounds and then he is called away to do his duties as a soldier.  The pair exchange letters and then they are saying I love you. I realize that this often how teenage romance plays out but I would have preferred a bit more development. 
• The world building needs more augmentation.  There is so little information about the world of Ossai.  I wanted to know more about what the landscape looked like? how big is it? who are all the inhabitants?  and so forth.  This is another area that I feel the hurried pace glosses over the details.
• There are hints throughout the book that a possible love triangle is on the horizon, it didn't come to fruition in this book, and I truly hope that it doesn't go that way in the future. 
• One puzzling thing to me was that Julia received a gift, a ring that is a lie detector.  I was excited to see how the ring would be used to sniff out trouble, but it was never mentioned again, a big let down. I wanted to know more about this  magical ring.

The Shapeshifter's Secret is the beginning of a new series that features werecat shapeshifters.  I enjoyed learning about this new paranormal species and their world.  This book has action and mystery and a few surprises.  It moves at a fast pace and really picks up at the midway point, heading to an exciting finish.  Overall, it is a solid read despite a few flaws.  If you are in the mood for something different, give this one a try. 

Favorite Quotations:

“She was losing control of her sight and couldn’t see anything but a swirl of shadows in front of her.”

“All of the furniture was a glossy wood and there were portraits of sunny lakes and glowing mountains coating the walls.”

“November fluttered through rather quickly and lightly, compared to the first couple of weeks of school.”

“Together they walked into the ballroom, a sea of masked faces swirling around them.”

Thank you to Cedar Fort Publishing for kindly providing me a review copy in exchange for an honest review. 

This Is Not A Test by Courtney Summers

It’s the end of the world. Six students have taken cover in Cortege High but shelter is little comfort when the dead outside won’t stop pounding on the doors. One bite is all it takes to kill a person and bring them back as a monstrous version of their former self. To Sloane Price, that doesn’t sound so bad. Six months ago, her world collapsed and since then, she’s failed to find a reason to keep going. Now seems like the perfect time to give up. As Sloane eagerly waits for the barricades to fall, she’s forced to witness the apocalypse through the eyes of five people who actually wantto live. But as the days crawl by, the motivations for survival change in startling ways and soon the group’s fate is determined less and less by what’s happening outside and more and more by the unpredictable and violent bids for life—and death—inside. When everything is gone, what doyou hold on to?
Paperback, 320 pages
Expected publication: June 19th 2012 by St. Martin's Griffin

 

Four Stars: A dark, haunting tale of survival and tough choices. 

Thud! Thud! Thud!  The constant, repetitive sounds of the living dead beating against the barricaded doors of the high school.  They are relentless; driven by their insatiable need to feed on live human flesh.  Inside the high school, are six teenagers who survived seven days of hell before finally finding shelter in their high school.  Their only link to the outside world and the unknown terror that stalks them, is the repeating female voice on the radio, advising them that "this is not a test" and to seek shelter immediately and wait for help to come.  The question is when or if help will come?  Will the barricades continue to hold?  Is it the end of the world?  Will they be next?  Thud! Thud! The hours are endless and time seems to standstill as the band of survivors struggle with the reality of their world and wonder if they can survive not only the zombies but themselves.....

What I Liked:

• This is an intense book!  Yes, this is a zombie book, but not in the way you expect.  The zombies in actuality, are for the most part, just a small element of the book.  Aside from some flashbacks and an encounter in the middle, they are really not much of a presence until the final scenes.  If you are picking this up expecting a gory zombie infestation, you will likely be disappointed.  What you will find is a book that exposes the psychological torment that the survivors endure.  Some are fighting to repress the decisions that got them to safety.  Others are grappling with the not knowing the fate of their loved ones, while others know the fate of their families and are struggling to cope with the loss.  Watching how they all deal with their situations is intriguing.  The waves of emotion, the choices and the will to live.  There are intense moments of anger and fear and then the painful realization of being alone, and needing the closeness and contact with another human, just to know you can still feel and that you are alive.  Secluding the characters and placing them in a sequestered high school allows you to get in their heads and shoes and feel their terror, since neither you or the characters know the extent of the zombie apocalypse.  It is the not knowing that keeps you glued to the pages.
• Sloane, the narrator and protagonist is a conundrum.  The story opens with her contemplating her suicide.  She is trapped under the abusive thumb of her father, and then on that morning when she plans to end it all, the zombie infestation raids through her world and changes everything.  The difference between Sloane and the rest of the characters is that she wants to die.  Her soul and will to live died months ago when her older sister, her protector, ran away, leaving her alone with her despicable father.  She is a shell, long withered and dead, except her body hasn't caught up with her defunct soul.  Having Sloane as the tragic narrator was quite shocking.  When everyone else is battling to live, she is plotting her death.  The reader has no idea why she wants to die, you have to keep reading to uncover the bits and fragments of her cruel life.  Her voice is unique and certainly will be one that will stick with me.  
• This is a book that relies heavily on atmospheric tension.  There is little action through the majority of the book.  Instead the reader is fed vivid scraps of prior events in order to have an understanding as to what happened before they arrived at the school.  As the reader,you are thrust into the school, behind the barricades with the others as an ignorant witness.  As the story unfolds, you see how the issues weigh heavily on the guilt ridden survives and you watch each of them slowly unravel a little more with each passing day, never knowing completely the full extent of the zombie hoard.  The author does such a good job of hooking you into the story, that you soon drop your obsession with the zombies and focus on the here and now with the survivors.  It is a gripping read.  Filled with tension and drama.

And The Not So Much:

• If you are expecting to read this and revel in the zombies, prepare to be disappointed.  This book maintains a strict first person narrative.  You are seeing everything through Sloane's eyes as they happen, so you are in the dark just like she is as far as the how and why the zombies are there.  If you are a reader that needs the details and the world building, this book lacks all of that. 
• Sloane is a difficult character.  You feel sympathetic toward her as you learn what led her to her painful decision.  Yet, I held out hope that someone she would learn to live again and that she would have that desire.  Unfortunately, this book has an open ending, so I am left to decide for myself Sloane's fate.  I guess it is better than a cliffhanger.  I am one of those readers who hates being left in the air. I want closure and I didn't get this at the end. 
• Even though I loved the strategic way the author placed me blind in the school with the survivors, I longed for more insight.  I wanted to know where the zombies came from?  Was the infection world wide? And everything else zombie related.

This is Not a Test, is a gripping read that thrusts you into the aftermath of a zombie invasion.  As you read this, you will ask yourself, what would I do?  How strong is your will to live? Could you survive the zombie hoard?  Would you want to?  After living in the darkened confines of the school, while listening to the constant thuds on the doors and the droning voice on the radio, I am not sure I would want to.  Ms. Summers crafts a dark, gritty, depressing read that will leave you muddling over the prospects of a zombie invasion. 

Favorite Quotations:

“I drink until l feel like the ocean is in my stomach and when I’m done, I’m spent.”

“Maybe it’s not safe to be out here alone.  Maybe I should go back and wake someone up.  I don’t.  If anything happens, it will just happen to me.”

“I don’t know how I’m going to do this, move through the hours like someone who wants to still be breathing when I had so firmly made up my mind to stop.  I’m not supposed to be here and the world has ended and it’s too stupid and sad for words and it’s changed time; a second is a minute, a minute is an hour, an hour is a day, a day is a month, a month is a year, and a year---I can’t be here that long.”

“I’m standing on the edge of a cliff and it feels like my heart is missing.”

“I am so sad is makes me heavier than the sum of my parts.”

“The walk to him takes forever.  It’s hard to breathe around how badly I feel right now.”

“The energy in the room shifts.  They’re kissing still, but now they’re really kissing.  It’s so open and so honest and so end of the world and I can feel it from where I’m standing.”

“The rain, I hear it.  I imagine it.  Fat drops of water splashing onto roofs, tracing slick wet trails down before turning back into smaller droplets that hit the pavement and splash, making puddles.”

“Maybe the only way our story can end is varying degrees of sad.  And that I miss, that I need her, and this kind of missing, this kind of need, the kind of emptiness it leaves behind is worse than waking up one day and  finding the whole world has collapsed in on itself, that I was over long before it was.”

A big thank you to St. Martin's Griffin Publishing for providing me with a copy for review. 

Insurgent (Divergent #2) by Veronica Roth

One choice can transform you—or it can destroy you. But every choice has consequences, and as unrest surges in the factions all around her, Tris Prior must continue trying to save those she loves—and herself—while grappling with haunting questions of grief and forgiveness, identity and loyalty, politics and love.Tris's initiation day should have been marked by celebration and victory with her chosen faction; instead, the day ended with unspeakable horrors. War now looms as conflict between the factions and their ideologies grows. And in times of war, sides must be chosen, secrets will emerge, and choices will become even more irrevocable—and even more powerful. Transformed by her own decisions but also by haunting grief and guilt, radical new discoveries, and shifting relationships, Tris must fully embrace her Divergence, even if she does not know what she may lose by doing so.New York Times bestselling author Veronica Roth's much-anticipated second book of the dystopian Divergent series is another intoxicating thrill ride of a story, rich with hallmark twists, heartbreaks, romance, and powerful insights about human nature.
Hardcover, 525 pages
Published May 1st 2012 by HarperTeen

 

Four stars: A gripping, thought provoking sequel.

Insurgent picks up right where the heart pounding and riveting conclusion of Divergent leaves off.  Four and Tris are on the train headed to the safety of Amity.  However, once they reach the safe confines of Amity it soon becomes apparent that there are many deep and troubling issues plaguing the pair.  Tris is reeling from the loss of her loved ones and feeling extreme guilt over killing a friend in self defense during the Erudite simulations.  Four is bearing his own burdens, one of which is being forced to deal with his father, Marcus, since they rescued him during the raids.  Even though Tris managed to stop Jeanine's Erudite take over, it is just a temporary reprieve.  Conflict hangs like a heavy, dark storm cloud over the factions.  Many leaders and citizens of Abnegation were slaughtered by the Erudite controlled Dauntless.  The remaining members seek refuge with Candor and Amity.  Dauntless is fractured, after the treacherous betrayal and subsequent departure to Erudite by many of its people.  Candor and Amity must decide if they will stand up and fight against the takeover of Erudite or try to negotiate.  Tempers flare and negotiations fail, leaving the Factions flailing.  Meanwhile the hundreds of factionless are organizing and strategizing for their own take over.  Will there be a resolution or will the Faction society shatter and fall due to the evil, corrupt and maniacal attempts by a select few to seize power and bend the society to their will?

What I Liked: 

•  Once again I loved being thrown into Ms. Roth's Faction driven society.  This time I was excited to get inside the Amity and Candor Factions and learn more about their people, ideals and way of life, as well as meeting the many discarded and left on the streets, the Factionless.  I am completely intrigued by this society that Ms. Roth envisions. 
•  What I love most about this series is the thought provoking ideas presented when one lives in a segregated society.  As with Divergent, I found myself constantly questioning how I would fit in the world of Insurgent.  Even before this book came out, many of the book bloggers were picking the Faction they identified best with and posting their choice on their blogs.  No matter how hard I tried, I could not completely identify with one Faction.  Part of me thirsts for knowledge so I can easily see myself slipping into Erudite, but I disagree with many of their ideas and detest the idea of wearing unnecessary spectacles just to look intelligent.  I have always been a "straight shooter" meaning I don't beat around the bush, I come out and tell it like it is.  I could certainly be part of Candor, but I can't say that I could be completely honest all the time, can anyone?  In my younger years, I would definitely been tempted by Dauntless because I loved the thrill of adventure.  Roller coasters, scary movies, running with scissors and coloring outside the lines, that was me.  Unfortunately, as I have gotten older, I lack the same daring, thrill seeking behavior.  I know for certain that I could never be in Abnegation because I am too selfish and hedonistic.  What can I say?  I like cake, especially chocolate, and I am going to eat it, too.  Amity?  Not a chance, I don't like group thinking.  I am an individual unhappy to conform and go with the herd.  My point is that this book makes me realize that is nearly impossible to label people and box them into groups and expect them to stay in the rigid lines of the group's ideals.  Humans are too varied with numerous individual traits.  It is unrealistic to expect a society built on these stringent expectations for its members to thrive over a long period of time. You can't continually take square pegs, thrust them into round holes and expect them to stay.  At some point, one of those misshapen pegs is going to pop out.  That is exactly what is happening in Insurgent, many are beginning to question the basis for their society, but the truth may be more frightening than what they know.
•  I absolutely love Veronica Roth's writing.  The way she builds her world, crafts her characters and provides us with such a stimulating and thought provoking read.  She has this gentle way of surprising you with big profound thoughts, that make you pause, reread and think, "wow!"  She pulls you into her books and absorbs you with her tale.  If you have not experienced her books, what are you waiting for?     
•  This is a book of secrets.  Everyone has secrets and during this read there are many  revelations of big secrets.  There are plenty of surprises and punches in this one!

And The Not So Much:

•  The aspect that I struggled the most with in this book, was the big changes in both Tris and Four.  Tris struggles the entire book with her loss and her extreme guilt over shooting her friend.  It gets to the point where she can't handle a gun and she becomes reckless in her behavior.  Four also is dealing with his own burdens.  His past is back to haunt him and he must deal with it and make some big decisions.  He is trying to rectify the boy he used to be with the man he has become, this is evident in the wavering back and forth with his name, at times he is Four and at others he is Tobias.  He is finally accepting who he is and striving to establish his identity.  The problem is that I felt like I was losing the characters I had grown to love in Divergent.  I watched as my friends, became strangers, and worst of all, their relationship, which I loved watching develop, quavers and falters due to secrets and lack of trust.  In the end, while I hated reading about the hesitating and changing, I appreciated the growth.
•  This book left me with so many questions.  Right from the beginning it was never clear to me exactly how the Dauntless splintered apart and what happened to all of them once they woke up and realized what had happened.  All of this is just glossed over and the reader is left trying to fill in the blanks.  As the story moves along there are so many new questions revealed and by the end, which is a cliffhanger, I was left frustrated due to the lack of answers and resolution.  
•  While I did enjoy this book, it lacked the same heart pounding, gripping, page turning feel that I felt with Divergent.  The villains weren't as despicable and they play a diminished role.  The book is more about change and building toward a climatic finish.  Don't get me wrong, this is still a very good, strong book, but it lacks the excitement that was so prevalent in the first book. 

Insurgent proves that Veronica Roth is a force to be reckoned with in the YA dystopian genre.  Her thrilling and exciting Divergent series will excite and electrify you while it throws plenty of stimulating food for thought in your direction while you read.  This book is a strong building block toward what is sure to be a riveting finish.  Even though this book lacks the same heart pounding, adrenaline feel, it is still an exciting book.  If you are a fan of The Hunger Games, this is a series that you must check out.  I hate to think of the insufferable long wait that we all must endure while we wait for book three in 2013. 

Favorite Quotations:

“I get the sense that if I were to whittle her down to her core, she would be Abnegation all the way through.”

“I am afraid that if I start to sob, I will never stop until I shrivel up like a raisin.”

“But mostly I miss the fears of the past few weeks, rendered small by my fears now.”

“They each have an equal role in the government; they each feel equally responsible.  And it makes them care; it makes them kind.”

“He kisses me again, more insistent this time, his hands squeezing my waist.  His breaths, my breaths, his body, my body, we are so close there is no difference.”

“How is it I know this little about the boy who says he loves me---the boy whose real name is powerful enough to keep us alive in a train car full of enemies?”

“I feel bare.  I didn’t realize that I wore my secrets as armor until they were gone, and now everyone sees me as I really am.”

“No matter how long you train someone to be brave, you never know if they are or not until something real happens.”

“I think about wrapping his shirt around my fist and pulling him in to kiss me; I think about pressing myself against him but I can’t, because all our secrets would keep a space between us.”

“I think we cry to release the animal parts of us without losing our humanity.”

“People, I have discovered, are layers and layers of secrets.  You believe you know them, that you understand them, but their motives are always hidden from you, buried in their own hearts.  You will never know them, but sometimes you decide to trust them.”