The Book Vixen

WINNER: $45 CSN Gift Certificate

2010-11-24T12:00:00.000-08:00

The winner of the $45 CSN Gift Certificate is…

Lindsey Ekland!

Congratulations! I will be in touch. And remember, you have 72 hours (3 days) to claim your prize.

REVIEW: If I Stay by Gayle Forman

2010-11-24T07:00:00.000-08:00

On a day that started like any other…

Mia had everything: a loving family, a gorgeous, adoring boyfriend, and a bright future full of music and full of choices. Then, in an instant, almost all of that is taken from her. Caught between life and death, between a happy past and an unknowable future, Mia spends one critical day contemplating the one decision she has left—the most important decision she’ll ever make.

Simultaneously tragic and hopeful, this is a romantic, riveting and ultimately uplifting story about memory, music, living, dying, loving.

Title: If I Stay (If I Stay, #1)
Author: Gayle Forman
Format: paperback, 234 pages
Genre: young adult
Source: personal shelf
Published: May 2009
Buy the book: The Book Depository | Amazon
Find the author online: website | blog | twitter | facebook

Why I Read this Book: I had learned about If I Stay earlier this year. At first, I wasn’t planning on reading it because it sounded too morbid. But then I had read a few books about death (like Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver and Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher) and found that I enjoy a good thought-provoking read. These types of books really make you think about life and what really matters. (You also start to notice how the little things can make an impact on others.) So I went out and bought If I Stay but it ended up sitting on my shelf for quite a while. Then I read Kelli’s review and that brought this book to the top of my TBR pile.

What I Liked: The transitions from current day to Mia’s flashback memories are seamless. The story flows along beautifully and you get a bit of history of each person in Mia’s life. Each memory holds a certain weight on her decision. The emotion is easy to feel, right off the page. If I Stay is a thought-provoking read about love, life, death, grief, and guilt. I’ve got a soft spot in my heart for Teddy. I cried the most when I read about him.

What I Didn’t Like: I think my expectations might have been too high going in. It wasn’t as moving as I thought it would have been. It was lacking a certain je ne sais quoi. It was an emotional, thought-provoking read; it just wasn’t packing the punch I thought it had. Nevertheless, it was still a good read. I enjoyed reading If I Stay but I just didn’t love as much as I thought I was going to, which surprised me.

Overall Impression: If you have this book on your bookshelf, you have to ask yourself, just like I did, what are you waiting for? If I Stay reminded me of the movie Just Like Heaven. If you liked that movie then you’ll enjoy reading this book. Speaking of movies, film rights for If I Stay have been purchased by Summit (they made Twilight). Definitely a movie I would like to see float from the pages onto the big screen. There are some very interested elements that I would like to see come to life. And I am definitely looking forward to reading Where She Went, the sequel to If I Stay. The blurb sounds really good!

The Book Vixen’s Rating:

TEASER TUESDAYS: Trail by Fire

2010-11-23T09:00:00.000-08:00

“I’m not looking for a one-night stand, Kat.”

“Good news, otherwise I’d have to send you home with a serious case of blue balls.”

p. 73, Trail by Fire by Jo Davis

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

Grab your current read
Open to a random page
Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! Make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others.
Share the title and author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

LAST DAY TO ENTER: $45 CSN Gift Certificate

2010-11-23T04:00:00.000-08:00

Today is the last day to enter to win a $45 CSN Gift Certificate!

REVIEW: Case File: Canyon Creek Wyoming by Paula Graves

2010-11-22T10:08:00.001-08:00

What was supposed to be a quiet vacation in scenic Wyoming turned deadly when Hannah Cooper became the target of a serial killer. Although she survived the attack, the ordeal was far from over. But she wasn't alone. Not when Riley Patterson appointed himself her protector.

Beneath Riley's strapping, solemn exterior hid a hard-driving sheriff who would stop at nothing to catch a killer. He promised Hannah safety, but it was the danger he posed that drew her in. Riley was as much a mystery as the man who sought to take her life. Trapped on his ranch, with no one but each other to trust, only justice could set them free...and possibly separate them forever.

Title: Case File: Canyon Creek Wyoming
Author: Paula Graves
Format: paperback, 214 pages
Genre: romantic suspense
Source: review copy
Published: January 2010 by Harelquin
Buy the book: The Book Depository | Amazon
Find the author online: website | blog | twitter | facebook

Why I Read this Book: Case File: Canyon Creek Wyoming is a book from Harlequin’s Intrigue line, a line of romantic suspense novels. Back in my earlier reading days, I was into suspense and mysteries like books from Dean Koontz. But then I discovered Nicholas Sparks and realized that romance was my liking as well. I didn’t realize until this year that these two genres that I enjoy so much could blend and compliment one another so well.

What I Liked: Case File: Canyon Creek Wyoming had the perfect blend of suspense and romance. Neither of the two elements overshadowed the other. I loved the characters of Hannah and Riley. These two are both realistic people with believable emotions.

The POV was told in third person narrative for Hannah and Riley. There was also little snippets of the story told from the villain’s POV. I like that the villain’s POV wasn’t overbearing in Case File: Canyon Creek Wyoming, like I find in some novels. It can be helpful and it can bring the story forward when we see what the bad guy is thinking and/or doing from time to time but I don’t want their POV to be a main focal point, especially in a romantic suspense novel. It was quick, to the point and the story got right back to our hero and heroine.

What I Didn’t Like: I would have like to have seen a little more sizzle between Hannah and Riley.

Overall Impression: This was a fast read; I read the book in less than 24 hours. Seriously, I can’t remember that last time I read a book so quickly. I was so engaged into the storyline and with what was going to happen between Hannah and Riley. I am definitely looking forward to more books from this author and from Harlequin’s Intrigue line!

The Book Vixen’s Rating:

WINNER: Four Thousand Miles by Jesi Lea Ryan

2010-11-20T15:05:00.001-08:00

The winner of an eBook copy of Four Thousand Miles by Jesi Lea Ryan is…

JenM!

Congratulations! I will be in touch. And remember, you have 72 hours (3 days) to claim your prize.

On My Wishlist (52)

2010-11-20T05:00:00.000-08:00

On My Wishlist is a fun weekly event hosted by Book Chick City and runs every Saturday. It's where I list all the books I desperately want but haven't actually bought yet. They can be old, new or forthcoming. If you want to know more click here.

Chain Reaction (Perfect Chemistry, #3) by Simone Elkeles

Luis Fuentes is a good boy who doesn't live with the angst that his big brothers, Alex and Carlos, have always lived with. Luis is smart, funny, and has big dreams of becoming an astronaut. But when he falls for the wrong girl, Luis enters a dark world he's never known, and just when he thinks he's got life all figured out, learns some disturbing news about his family that destroys his positive outlook on life. Will that Fuentes bad boy streak come out with a vengeance and lure Luis to live on the edge like his new girlfriend and his own father?

Continuing all the steamy romance of the first two books, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Simone Elkeles gives fans one more satisfying taste of the irresistible Fuentes boys.

I have read Perfect Chemistry and Rules of Attraction and I must say, I am really looking forward to Chain Reaction. Especially when Luis is the complete opposite of his brothers by being the good brother.

Dash & Lily’s Book of Dares by Rachel Cohn & David Levithan

“I’ve left some clues for you.
If you want them, turn the page.
If you don’t, put the book back on the shelf, please.”

So begins the latest whirlwind romance from the New York Times bestselling authors of Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist. Lily has left a red notebook full of challenges on a favorite bookstore shelf, waiting for just the right guy to come along and accept its dares. But is Dash that right guy? Or are Dash and Lily only destined to trade dares, dreams, and desires in the notebook they pass back and forth at locations across New York? Could their in-person selves possibly connect as well as their notebook versions? Or will they be a comic mismatch of disastrous proportions?

Rachel Cohn and David Levithan have written a love story that will have readers perusing bookstore shelves, looking and longing for a love (and a red notebook) of their own.

Sounds like a cute book. I love the premise of clues being left for each other.

Corsets and Clockwork: 13 Steampunk Romances

by Trisha Telep (Editor), Maria V. Snyder (Goodreads Author)(Contributor), Tiffany Trent (Goodreads Author) (Contributor), Kiersten White (Goodreads Author) (Contributor), Jaclyn Dolamore (Goodreads Author) (Contributor), Tessa Gratton (Goodreads Author) (Contributor),Caitlin Kittredge (Contributor), Adrienne Kress (Contributor) , Lesley Livingston (Goodreads Author) (Contributor), Dru Pagliassotti(Contributor), Dia Reeves (Goodreads Author) (Contributor), Michael Scott(Contributor), Ann Aguirre (Goodreads Author) (Contributor), Frewin Jones (Contributor)

I thought this book would be the perfect introduction to Steampunk, since I have yet to read anything from this genre. And I just LOVE the cover.

Babe in Boyland by Jody Gehrman

Natalie, a seventeen-year-old former drama club member who now writes a relationship column for her school newspaper, decides to go undercover as a student at an all-boys boarding school so that she can figure out what guys are really like.

This book reminds me of that 80s movie Just One of the Guys. I love that movie! And I really like this cover too.

Sixteenth Summer by Michelle Dalton

Anna is dreading another tourist-filled summer on Dune Island that follows the same routine: beach, ice cream, friends, repeat. That is, until she locks eyes with Will, the gorgeous and sweet guy visiting from New York. Soon, her summer is filled with flirtatious fun as Anna falls head over heels in love.

But with every perfect afternoon, sweet kiss, and walk on the beach, Anna can't ignore that the days are quickly growing shorter, and Will has to leave at the end of August. Anna's never felt anything like this before, but when forever isn't even a possibility, one summer doesn't feel worth the promise of her heart breaking…

I don’t know why but I like reading about summer romances that have an expiration date because someone has to leave and go back home. Is that sad or what?

So that’s what’s on my wishlist this week. What are you wishing for?

Fever Series Read-Along

2010-11-18T07:25:00.001-08:00

In preparation of the highly anticipated release of the 5th and final book in the Fever series by Karen Marie Moning, Fiction Vixen and Smexy Books have teamed up for a Fever series read-along. This is perfect for anyone who hasn’t yet read the series or for those who would like to refresh their memories with a re-read of the series. I am a Fever newbie so I will be reading along for the first time. Today, Sophia, Mandi and Tori are discussing Darkfever.

Click HERE for details about the read-along.

Click HERE for today's discussion about Darkfever, the first book in the series. Don’t read this until you have read Darkfever, or there will be SPOILERS I’m sure.

I’ll be right over as soon as I finish reading Darkfever, which will hopefully be later on today. Hope to see you there!

READING CHALLENGE: Men in Uniform

2010-11-16T13:00:00.000-08:00

Men in Uniform Reading Challenge
hosted by The Book Vixen

Details:

Runs January 1, 2011 through December 31, 2011(books read prior to 1/1/11 do not count towards the challenge). You can join at anytime – Sign up on The Book Vixen’s blog.
The goal is to read as many novels that involve men in inform as you’d like. It can be a policeman, firefighter, paramedic, Army, Navy, Marine Corp., etc. – As long as the leading man wears some sort of uniform, it counts. See the different levels below and pick the one that works best for you. Nothing is set in stone; you can change levels at any time during the challenge.
Books can be any format (bound, eBook, audio).
Re-reads and crossovers from other reading challenges are fine.
You can list your books in advance or list them as you read them. It is not required that you review the books you read for this challenge but feel free to do so.
Post this reading challenge on your blog so you can keep a list of the books you’ve read for this challenge. Please include a link back to this post so readers can join the challenge too.
You do not have to be a book blogger to participate. You can keep tabs on books you’ve read for this challenge on Goodreads or LibraryThing if you’d like (maybe make a shelf for “Men in Uniform Reading Challenge”). If you are not on either of those sites then you can list the books you read for this challenge in the comments on my wrap-up post, which will be up at the end of 2011.

Levels:

     Sergeant – Read 1–5 men in uniform novels
     Lieutenant – Read 6–10 men in uniform novels
     Captain – Read 11–15 men in uniform novels
     Chief – Read 16+ men in uniform novels

At this moment, I am going for the Lieutenant level. Here will be my list of books that I read for this challenge:

Wild Heat by Bella Andre
Trial by Fire by Jo Davis
Under Fire by Jo Davis
Hidden Fire by Jo Davis
Wild Card by Lora Leigh
Fragile by Shiloh Walker

READING CHALLENGE: Outdo Yourself

2010-11-16T11:00:00.000-08:00

Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge
hosted by The Book Vixen

Details:

Runs January 1, 2011 through December 31, 2011(books read prior to 1/1/11 do not count towards the challenge). You can join at anytime. You can sign up on The Book Vixen’s blog.
The goal is to outdo yourself by reading more books in 2011 than you did in 2010. See the different levels below and pick the one that works best for you. Nothing is set in stone; you can change levels at any time during the challenge.
Books can be any format (bound, eBook, audio).
Re-reads and crossovers from other reading challenges are fine.
You can list your books in advance or list them as you read them. It is not required that you review the books you read for this challenge but feel free to do so.
Post this reading challenge on your blog so you can keep a list of the books you’ve read for this challenge. Please include a link back to this post so readers can join the challenge too.
You do not have to be a book blogger to participate. You can keep tabs on books you’ve read for this challenge on Goodreads or LibraryThing if you’d like (maybe make a shelf for “Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge”). If you are not on either of those sites then you can list the books you read for this challenge in the comments on my wrap-up post, which will be up at the end of 2011.

Levels:

     Getting my heart rate up – Read 1–5 more books
     Out of breath – Read 6–10 more books
     Breaking a sweat – Read 11–15 more books
     I’m on fire! – Read 16+ more books

I am going for the I’m on fire! level. The year’s not over yet but to date I have read only 67 books. My goal for 2011 is to read 100 books. Here will be my list of books for this challenge:

READING CHALLENGE: Nicholas Sparks

2010-11-16T09:00:00.000-08:00

Nicholas Sparks Reading Challenge
hosted by The Book Vixen

Details:

Runs January 1, 2011 through December 31, 2011(books read prior to 1/1/11 do not count towards the challenge). You can join at anytime – Sign up on The Book Vixen’s blog.
The goal is to read or re-read as many Nicholas Sparks novels as you’d like. See the different levels below and pick the one that works best for you. Nothing is set in stone; you can change levels at any time during the challenge.
Books can be any format (bound, eBook, audio).
Re-reads and crossovers from other reading challenges are fine.
You can list your books in advance or list them as you read them. It is not required that you review the books you read for this challenge but feel free to do so.
Post this reading challenge on your blog so you can keep a list of the books you’ve read for this challenge. Please include a link back to this post so readers can join the challenge too.
You do not have to be a book blogger to participate. You can keep tabs on books you’ve read for this challenge on Goodreads or LibraryThing if you’d like (maybe make a shelf for “Nicholas Sparks Reading Challenge”). If you are not on either of those sites then you can list the books you read for this challenge in the comments on my wrap-up post, which will be up at the end of 2011.

Levels:

     First Date – Read 1–4 Nicholas Sparks novels
     Going Steady – Read 5–8 Nicholas Sparks novels
     Engaged – Read 9–12 Nicholas Sparks novels
     Married – Read 13–16 Nicholas Sparks novels

I am going for the Engaged level. Every book listed below, with the exception of The Wedding, Three Weeks With My Brother and Safe Haven, will be a re-read for me.

The Notebook
Message in a Bottle
A Walk to Remember
A Bend in the Road
The Wedding
The Guardian
Three Weeks With My Brother
The Choice
The Lucky One
Safe Haven

TEASER TUESDAYS: Darkfever

2010-11-16T07:00:00.000-08:00

I didn’t see it coming. He was nearly past me, nearly to the door, when he grabbed me and slammed me back against his body.

p. 59, Darkfever by Karen Marie Moning

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

Grab your current read
Open to a random page
Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! Make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others.
Share the title and author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

2011 READING CHALLENGE SIGN UP: Men in Uniform

2010-11-15T18:29:00.001-08:00

Who doesn’t love a man in uniform? I sure do and I love reading about them too. They’re hot, resourceful and they’re always well equipped ;) So I’ve decided to mix some sexy men in uniform into my reading agenda for 2011.

Men in Uniform Reading Challenge
hosted by The Book Vixen

Details:

Runs January 1, 2011 through December 31, 2011(books read prior to 1/1/11 do not count towards the challenge). You can join at anytime – Sign up on The Book Vixen’s blog.
The goal is to read as many novels that involve men in inform as you’d like. It can be a policeman, firefighter, paramedic, Army, Navy, Marine Corp., etc. – As long as the leading man wears some sort of uniform, it counts. See the different levels below and pick the one that works best for you. Nothing is set in stone; you can change levels at any time during the challenge.
Books can be any format (bound, eBook, audio).
Re-reads and crossovers from other reading challenges are fine.
You can list your books in advance or list them as you read them. It is not required that you review the books you read for this challenge but feel free to do so.
Post this reading challenge on your blog so you can keep a list of the books you’ve read for this challenge. Please include a link back to this post so readers can join the challenge too.
You do not have to be a book blogger to participate. You can keep tabs on books you’ve read for this challenge on Goodreads or LibraryThing if you’d like (maybe make a shelf for “Men in Uniform Reading Challenge”). If you are not on either of those sites then you can list the books you read for this challenge in the comments on my wrap-up post, which will be up at the end of 2011.

Levels:

ETA: Erica found this list of Military books on Goodreads.

Sign Up:

When you sign up, please put the name of your blog and the direct URL link to your blog post where the level you selected and your books will be listed, not a link to your blog’s home page.

2011 READING CHALLENGE SIGN UP: Outdo Yourself

2010-11-15T13:42:00.001-08:00

My goal for 2010 was to read 100 books for the year. As of right now, it looks like I’m not going to make it. (Right now I’m at 67.) It does please me that I read more books this year than I did last year but I want to read more. My goal for 2011 will also be to read 100 books. I think there’s a little bit of self-competition in everyone. So I decided to turn this into a fun reading challenge. I want to read more books in 2011 than I did in 2010. Plain and simple. What about you – are you game?

Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge
hosted by The Book Vixen

Details:

Runs January 1, 2011 through December 31, 2011 (books read prior to 1/1/11 do not count towards the challenge). You can join at anytime. You can sign up on The Book Vixen’s blog.
The goal is to outdo yourself by reading more books in 2011 than you did in 2010. See the different levels below and pick the one that works best for you. Nothing is set in stone; you can change levels at any time during the challenge.
Books can be any format (bound, eBook, audio).
Re-reads and crossovers from other reading challenges are fine.
You can list your books in advance or list them as you read them. It is not required that you review the books you read for this challenge but feel free to do so.
Post this reading challenge on your blog so you can keep a list of the books you’ve read for this challenge. Please include a link back to this post so readers can join the challenge too.
You do not have to be a book blogger to participate. You can keep tabs on books you’ve read for this challenge on Goodreads or LibraryThing if you’d like (maybe make a shelf for “Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge”). If you are not on either of those sites then you can list the books you read for this challenge in the comments on my wrap-up post, which will be up at the end of 2011.

Levels:

Sign Up:

When you sign up, please put the name of your blog and the direct URL link to your blog post where the level you selected and your books will be listed, not a link to your blog’s home page.

2011 READING CHALLENGE SIGN UP: Nicholas Sparks

2010-11-15T09:47:00.001-08:00

If you know me then you know how much I love Nicholas Sparks’ novels. He is one of my favorite authors of all time. He’s on my auto-buy list; If he writes it, I will read it. I don’t even need to read the blurb, I just know that I’m going to enjoy reading it. So I decided to host a challenge to get more people to read his novels; to share the love, if you will.

I know Nicholas Sparks may not be for everyone. His love stories do not always have a HEA. In fact, most of them don’t. But as the saying goes, Tis better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all. If you like a good love story, one that will capture your heart, take your breathe away and tug on your heart strings, then he is the man for the job. So what do you say – are you up for the challenge?

Nicholas Sparks Reading Challenge
hosted by The Book Vixen

Details:

Runs January 1, 2011 through December 31, 2011(books read prior to 1/1/11 do not count towards the challenge). You can join at anytime – Sign up on The Book Vixen’s blog.
The goal is to read or re-read as many Nicholas Sparks novels as you’d like. See the different levels below and pick the one that works best for you. Nothing is set in stone; you can change levels at any time during the challenge.
Books can be any format (bound, eBook, audio).
Re-reads and crossovers from other reading challenges are fine.
You can list your books in advance or list them as you read them. It is not required that you review the books you read for this challenge but feel free to do so.
Post this reading challenge on your blog so you can keep a list of the books you’ve read for this challenge. Please include a link back to this post so readers can join the challenge too.
You do not have to be a book blogger to participate. You can keep tabs on books you’ve read for this challenge on Goodreads or LibraryThing if you’d like (maybe make a shelf for “Nicholas Sparks Reading Challenge”). If you are not on either of those sites then you can list the books you read for this challenge in the comments on my wrap-up post, which will be up at the end of 2011.

Levels:

List of Nicholas Sparks novels:

     The Notebook
     Message in a Bottle
     A Walk to Remember
     The Rescue
     A Bend in the Road
     Nights in Rodanthe
     The Wedding
     The Guardian
     Three Weeks With My Brother
     True Believer (read this first, before At First Sight)
     At First Sight (read this after True Believer)
     The Choice
     Dear John
     The Lucky One
     The Last Song
     Safe Haven

If you need recommendations – like books with a HEA, or books geared towards a YA audience – let me know!

Sign Up:

When you sign up, please put the name of your blog and the direct URL link to your blog post where the level you selected and your books will be listed, not a link to your blog’s home page.

REVIEW: Glimmer by Stacey Wallace Benefiel

2010-11-15T07:00:00.000-08:00

Zellie Wells’ life is changing. Her relationship with Avery is growing stronger every day, but their parents are still giving them ultimatums and trying to keep them apart. Her newly discovered powers have all but disappeared. Benjamin, another young Retroact, is back and has brought with him a painful shared vision and a troubled past. While working together to figure out what the vision means, Zellie discovers that Benjamin is a worthy friend and mentor. If only he could keep his hands off of her - if only she wanted him to...

Title: Glimmer (Zellie Wells, #2)
Author: Stacey Wallace Benefiel
Format: eBook
Genre: paranormal romance, young adult
Source: review copy
Published: November 1, 2010
Buy the book: Amazon
Find the author online: website | blog | twitter | facebook

Why I Read this Book: I read Glimpse, the first book in this series, and I really enjoyed the story. This series carries a very unique paranormal story that just grabs you. I definitely wanted to read more about Zellie and the complications that surround her. If you’ve read Glimpse, you’ll definitely want to read Glimmer.

What I Liked: In Glimpse, we didn’t really get to know Benjamin, we just got to meet him. He was a very intriguing character and in Glimmer, he’s one of the characters that takes center stage. I like Benjamin; he’s cocky, funny and smart. I like that he makes Avery feel uncomfortable and keeps him on his toes.

There is a character in this book that at first seems like a new addition to the group. However, that is not the case. This character was in Glimpse a little bit, even had a few lines of dialogue. I just didn’t know that he was going to have a bigger role in Glimmer. This move was very well played by the author. There were also some interesting twists and turns to the storyline that I didn’t see coming. Just like with Glimpse, there’s no cliffhanger ending but there are some loose ends that need attention. Glimmer ends well considering there is another book in this series; you know there’s more to come, the door is not closed yet.

What I Didn’t Like: There were a couple of moments in this book that I feel could use a bit of clarity. One thing in particular that I needed clarity on involves the circumstances surrounding Rachel. If you would like to know specifics, click on the SPOILER button below. But be warned, it could be considered a SPOILER, which is why I wanted to hide it away. You have been warned.

I’m also a bit confused about the “loophole”. I’m not sure if that’s been solved with the certain turn of events towards the end of the book or if it still remains an issue. Perhaps it will be addressed in the next book in the series…

Glimmer had lots of characters to keep track of. Also the POV bounced around a lot, unlike the simplistic POVs in Glimpse.

Overall Impression: Glimmer has a bit more mature content than Glimpse did. Profanity was definitely more prominent in Glimmer than it was in Glimpse. It doesn’t bother me a bit but since this is a YA novel, it should be mentioned. Also, Zellie and Avery’s relationship…shall we say, progresses, in Glimmer. I enjoyed reading Glimmer but I enjoyed Glimpse a bit more. I look forward to the release of Glow, the next installment in the Zellie Wells series, which is set to be released sometime in 2011.

The Book Vixen’s Rating:

READING CHALLENGE: YA of the 80s and 90s

2010-11-14T12:02:00.001-08:00

YA of the 80s and 90s Reading Challenge
hosted by The Book Vixen

Runs January 1, 2011 through December 31, 2011 (books read prior to 1/1/11 do not count). You can join at anytime. You can sign up on The Book Vixen’s blog.
Read as many YA books that were originally published in the 80s and 90s as your heart desires. The only requirement is that the book(s) have to have been first published sometime between 1980 – 1999.
Books can be any format (bound, eBook, audio).
Re-reads and crossovers from other reading challenges are fine.
You can list your books in advance or list them as you read them. It is not required that you review the books you read for this challenge but feel free to do so.
Post this reading challenge on your blog so you can keep a list of the books you’ve read for this challenge. Please include a link back to this post so readers can join the challenge too.
You do not have to be a book blogger to participate. You can keep tabs on books you’ve read for this challenge on Goodreads or LibraryThing if you’d like (maybe make a shelf for “YA of the 80s and 90s Reading Challenge”). If you are not on either of those sites then you can list the books you read for this challenge in the comments on my wrap-up post, which will be up at the end of 2011.

Here are some books I would like to read for this challenge (if I can get my hands on them):

The Giver by Lois Lowry
Speak by Laurie Halse Anderson
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone by J.K. Rowling
Harry Potter and Chamber of Secrets by J.K. Rowling
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling
Tiger Eyes by Judy Blume
Chain Letter by Christopher Pike
The Last Vampire by Christopher Pike
Scavenger Hunt by Christopher Pike
The Wrong Number by R.L. Stine
Cheerleaders: The First Evil by R.L. Stine
Double Date by R.L. Stine
The Boyfriend by R.L. Stine
The Dare by R.L. Stine
Secret Admirer by R.L. Stine
The New Boy by R.L. Stine
The Perfect Date by R.L. Stine
Broken Hearts by R.L. Stine
Truth or Date by R.L. Stine
The Cheater by R.L. Stine
Call Waiting by R.L. Stine
Hit and Run by R.L. Stine
The Confession by R.L. Stine
Blind Date by R.L. Stine

2011 READING CHALLENGE SIGN UP: YA of the 80s and 90s

2010-11-14T11:45:00.001-08:00

I didn’t do a lot of reading when I was growing up. I read a few books here and there, most of which was required reading for school. Now that I am a bit of an avid reader, one who enjoys reading YA, I’d like to go back and see what I’ve missed out on. I want to read (or re-read) some books that were published when I was growing up in the 80s and 90s. I’m not sure if the Young Adult books back then were as good (or better) as the ones we have today but I’m about to find out. So what do you say – want to join me?

YA of the 80s and 90s Reading Challenge
hosted by The Book Vixen

Runs January 1, 2011 through December 31, 2011 (books read prior to 1/1/11 do not count). You can join at anytime. You can sign up on The Book Vixen’s blog.
Read as many YA books that were originally published in the 80s and 90s as your heart desires. The only requirement is that the book(s) have to have been first published sometime between 1980 – 1999.
Books can be any format (bound, eBook, audio).
Re-reads and crossovers from other reading challenges are fine.
You can list your books in advance or list them as you read them. It is not required that you review the books you read for this challenge but feel free to do so.
Post this reading challenge on your blog so you can keep a list of the books you’ve read for this challenge. Please include a link back to this post so readers can join the challenge too.
You do not have to be a book blogger to participate. You can keep tabs on books you’ve read for this challenge on Goodreads or LibraryThing if you’d like (maybe make a shelf for “YA of the 80s and 90s Reading Challenge”). If you are not on either of those sites then you can list the books you read for this challenge in the comments on my wrap-up post, which will be up at the end of 2011.

I found this list of YA books from the 80s and 90s on Goodreads, which is a good starting point, but I’m looking for some more recommendations. So if you have any, let me know in the comments.

ETA: Pixiesand found this HUGE list of teen book series from the 80s and 90s.

Sign Up:

When you sign up, please put the name of your blog and the direct URL link to your blog post where the level you selected and your books will be listed, not a link to your blog’s home page.

WINNERS: H.P. Mallory eBooks Giveaway

2010-11-13T12:00:00.000-08:00

The winner of an eBook copy of Fire Burn and Cauldron Bubble by H.P. Mallory is…

Carol Wong!

And the winner of an eBook copy of To Kill a Warlock by H.P. Mallory is…

Natalie!

Congratulations! Both winners won their first choice! I will be in touch. And remember, you have 72 hours (3 days) to claim your prize.

On My Wishlist (51)

2010-11-13T04:00:00.000-08:00

The Summer Before Boys by Nora Raleigh Baskin

A timely, touching story about two young girls in their last summer as best friends.

This one doesn’t come out until May 10th, 2011 according to Goodreads. This one-liner blurb definitely caught my attention. Can’t wait to find out more about this book.

Between Here and Forever by Elizabeth Scott

A romantic but dark coming-of-age teen novel by the author of Perfect You and Living Dead Girl.

Another one that doesn’t come out until next year, May 24th, 2011 to be exact. I’m just full of suspense today, aren’t I?

Teach Me by R.A. Nelson

Teach Me invites readers inside an experience that fascinates everyone—an affair between a teacher and student—and gives an up-close-and-personal answer to the question: How does this happen?

Saw this one mentioned on Eleni’s blog. She has a weekly feature called Tantalizing Future YA Releases where in addition to future YA releases she also features a blast from the past. I get a lot of good, older book recommendations this way.

Sandpiper by Ellen Wittlinger

When The Walker, a mysterious boy who walks constantly, intervenes in an argument between Sandpiper and a boy she used to see, their lives become entwined in ways that change them both.

Another book that was featured on Eleni’s blast from the past.

The Marbury Lens by Andrew Smith

Sixteen-year-old Jack gets drunk and is in the wrong place at the wrong time. He is kidnapped. He escapes, narrowly. The only person he tells is his best friend, Conner. When they arrive in London as planned for summer break, a stranger hands Jack a pair of glasses. Through the lenses, he sees another world called Marbury.

There is war in Marbury. It is a desolate and murderous place where Jack is responsible for the survival of two younger boys. Conner is there, too. But he’s trying to kill them.

Meanwhile, Jack is falling in love with an English girl, and afraid he’s losing his mind.

Conner tells Jack it’s going to be okay.

But it’s not.

Say a review for this one at All About {n}. I’ve seen the book around the internets but never paid it much attention until I read Nely’s review. This is how she started her review:

Oh my, this book scared the bejesus out of me! I thought this would be more of a fantasy, sci-fi type of read and instead I was taken into this maniacal, twisted world that gave me nightmares. I am serious! I still think about this book and I read it over a week ago.

And that is why I now what to read this book! Perfect example of how a good review can turn a book onto anyone, even a person who wasn’t initially interested.

What's on your wishlist?

REVIEW: White Heat by Brenda Novak

2010-11-12T08:00:00.000-08:00

Paradise in name only?

A religious cult has moved into what was once a ghost town--Paradise, Arizona. And their actions are cause for concern. One woman who escaped from the compound was nearly stoned to death. Another has gone missing altogether.

Private security contractor Nate Ferrentino is given the assignment of infiltrating the group. It's a challenge he welcomes...until he learns that Rachel Jessop, one of his colleagues at Department 6, has been chosen to accompany him. Nate's attracted to Rachel but because of their history, he prefers to keep his distance.

Problem is, they have to pretend to be married. Only couples can participate in certain rituals, which Nate and Rachel need to do if they're going to pierce the veil of secrecy. But when they find proof that cult leader Ethan Wycliff is as twisted as they feared, they know they have to set aside their differences...or Ethan might take more lives. Maybe even theirs....

Title: White Heat (Dept. 6 Hired Guns, #1)
Author: Brenda Novak
Format: paperback, 442 pages
Genre: romantic suspense
Source: review copy
Published: July 2010 by Mira
Buy the book: The Book Depository | Amazon
Find the author online: website | twitter | facebook

Why I Read this Book: I have been reading quite of few romantic suspense novels lately and what I found out is that I really enjoy reading this sub-genre. I am also fascinated with CSI and forensics. So when I came across this book, it caught my interest. Though, I was a bit concerned about the religious cult element and I had hoped it wouldn’t be too overbearing. So much for wishful thinking.

What I Liked: The plot was well thought out. The religious cult that the author created was scarily surreal. We hear about cults like these in the news from time to time and this author nailed it right on the head.

The infiltration process was interesting, exciting and felt like a dangerous thrill ride. I was turning page after page, on the edge of my seat, waiting to find out how things were going to end. Once the action started happening, there was no putting this book down.

What I Didn’t Like: White Heat was heavy on the religious cult, and I mean lay it on thick heavy! Yes, I know that was the plot of the story before going in but it was a bit overwhelming.

I love tension, especially between the two main characters, but the characters also need have to chemistry. The air was filled with thick tension between Nate and Rachel but I wasn’t feeling the chemistry. And the love scenes between them left more to be desired. They were short and not too telling. I was hoping for steamy love scenes and unfortunately it was more fizzle than sizzle. The back story of the awkward feelings between Nate and Rachel wasn’t convincing, especially on Rachel’s part.

Overall Impression: White Heat was an okay read. It was a bit too long for my taste, especially with the lack of “heat” between the two main characters. Reading this book helped me figure out what I like and don’t like in a romantic suspense. I’m big on romance and unfortunately romance took a back seat in this book. If you’re looking for a book that focuses more on suspense and action, rather than romance, then White Heat is for you. Even though I didn’t love this book, I thought it was well written for the most part.

The Book Vixen’s Rating:

REVIEW: Lancelot’s Lady by Cherish D’Angelo

2010-11-11T07:00:00.000-08:00

When palliative care nurse Rhianna McLeod is given a gift of a dream holiday to the Bahamas from her dying patient, billionaire JT Lance, she has no idea that her 'holiday' will include being stranded on a private island with Jonathan, an irritating but irresistibly handsome recluse. Or that she'll fall head over heels for the man.

Jonathan isn't happy to discover a drop-dead gorgeous redhead has invaded his island. But his anger soon turns to attraction. After one failed marriage, he has guarded his heart, but Rhianna's sudden appearance makes him yearn to throw caution to the wind.

To live fully in the present, Rhianna must resolve her own murky past, unravel the secret that haunts JT, foil the plans of a sleazy, blackmailing private investigator and help Jonathan find his muse. Only then can Rhianna find the love she's been searching for, and finally become...Lancelot's Lady.

Title: Lancelot's Lady
Author: Cherish D’Angelo (pseudonym for Cheryl Kaye Tardif)
Format: eBook
Genre: contemporary romance, romantic suspense
Source: review copy
Published: September 2010 by Imajin Books
Buy the book: Amazon
Find the author online: website | blog | twitter

Why I Read this Book: I love reading romance and I am finding that I enjoy reading romantic suspense more than I had originally expected. When I first got into reading altogether, I was addicted to Dean Koontz’s novels. I loved the mystery, the suspense and the unusual twists and turns in his books. I like being kept on my toes and I enjoy a book that makes me think and second guess myself and my intuitions. Add a romantic subplot to the mix and I’m a happy gal.

What I Liked: You know those books that have you thinking that you know what’s going on or that you’ve figured out the “secret” and you’re all “Oh.” and then you find out that there’s more to that secret than you originally thought and then you’re all “OH!!”? That’s what Lancelot’s Lady did to me. Just when you think you’ve got something figured out, you find out the author has a few more tricks up her sleeve.

There was enough romance and enough suspense in Lancelot’s Lady. The ratio between the two elements was satisfying, with neither element overwhelming the other. The characters and plotline were well structured. In the end, everything tied together quite nicely. For me, the characters with haunting pasts are the ones that are interesting to me. Both Rhianna and Jonathan come from broken pasts, each trying to overcome their own trust issues and move on.

What I Didn’t Like: I wasn’t entirely convinced of the way JT handled the Winston situation. JT seemed to be an intelligent man, being a successful business man and all, but when it came to Winston and his demands, JT caved each time.

Overall Impression: Lancelot’s Lady is a great romantic suspense read about finding love in the least likely of situations, restitution and the secrets we hold close to our heart. If you like a story with secrets and ulterior motives mixed in with suspense and mystery, then this book is for you.

The Book Vixen’s Rating:

AUTHOR INTERVIEW & GIVEAWAY [CLOSED]: Jesi Lea Ryan

2010-11-10T04:00:00.000-08:00

I am excited to have Jesi Lea Ryan here on the blog today as part of her book tour. Her debut novel, Four Thousand Miles, released on November 7th. Please welcome Jesi!

Could you tell us a little about yourself and your path to becoming a published author?

I was born and raised in the Mississippi River town of Dubuque, Iowa. I started writing as a little girl. In fact, when I was eight years old, I had a book published called Grump: The Skump Who Ate Liver. Never heard of it? It was a masterpiece that ended up in dentist waiting rooms all over the Dubuque area. Actually, I don’t even have a copy of it any more.

Well, Grump led to a love of writing, but I never envisioned it as a career. I kept journals and wrote some short stories for fun, but to be honest, I grew up poor and that made me practical. I didn’t have the luxury to pull off the starving artist thing. Even though I majored in Creative Writing and Literature in college, I followed the security of a paycheck into the insurance industry.

When the economy tanked in early 2009, my insurance position was eliminated. Luckily for me, I have a husband who makes enough money to meet our bills and he encouraged me to give writing an honest go of it. It was the best decision I’ve ever made.

That is so awesome that you were published at such a young age! How long did it take to write Four Thousand Miles, from pen & paper to being published?

A month before my insurance job was cut, my husband and I took my mother to the UK. I am a big day dreamer—I think of it as writing in my head—and England inspired me. One of the places we stayed was a medieval farm which had been turned into a bed & breakfast in rural Kent. I love history and as someone who worked with home insurance, the construction and modernization of the old farm buildings fascinated me. There were wild flowers and sheep filling the pastures, hedgerows lining the roads and an aura of history that we just don’t have in the US. I don’t think I have ever been to a more romantic place. I knew I had to write about it.

The actual writing of Four Thousand Miles took me about four months to complete. (Four thousand miles is the exact distance from Milwaukee, WI, where my main character is from to Pluckley, Kent where the she flees after her career and marriage fall apart.) I had a couple of people read the book, and I spent a couple of months polishing and tweaking before I began querying agents. I queried for a couple of months, with no luck. Last May, I attended the Romantic Times Convention with the goal of finding an agent. I didn’t land an agent, but I did find an editor who requested my full manuscript. Within a couple of weeks, I signed on with DCL Publications.

What was the most challenging aspect of writing your debut novel and how did you overcome the challenge?

For me, the writing was the easiest part—although it didn’t feel that way at the time. My inspirations were so strong that the story poured out of me. When I set out to write it, I didn’t know where the story would go or how it would end. Instead, I let the characters lead the way.

The hardest part about the process was trying to sell my book. The query process is long and takes a lot of work to yield results. In my case, I sent about forty queries and never did get an agent. The challenge is to not take the rejection personally. I have a very tough skin, so I didn’t have as much of a problem with the rejection as some other people I know. Agents are very busy people and the number of clients they can take on is limited. One agent I spoke to recently told me that she has received about a thousand queries this year and has only signed one client. I got lucky in that I was able to find a publisher myself without an agent.

What can readers expect to see from you in the future? Is there another book in the works?

While I have done a few short stories, I really am more of a novel writer. I need to have room to move around and let my characters grow. I am currently working on a YA paranormal romance that has to do with a love spell gone wrong. I also have another women’s fiction piece that I’ve begun working on. There has also been some interest in a possible sequel to Four Thousand Miles which would revolve around Gavin’s brother Elliot. I suppose I will wait to see what the reader response is before I consider that further.

What are 5 things most people don't know about you?

Wow, that’s hard. I am pretty open with myself in general. Okay, here goes:

President Jimmy Carter kissed me. I was only three at the time, but I remember it. I used to call him the Peanut Man.
I am very sensitive when it comes to animals. I support animal charities whenever possible, I detest hunting for sport and I never kill a spider in my house. My cat and I have a codependent relationship
The character of Gavin was inspired by a photo of Robert Pattinson. I didn’t even know who Pattinson was at the time. I had an entirely different picture in my head for Gavin, but when I stumbled on this one, I knew he was my male lead. Yes, I am a genuine Pattinson fan now, but I think some of that has to do with the four months I spent turning him into a fictional character.
I collect Buddha statues. They are hiding all over my house. I keep coins underneath them, because someone told me that doing so would bring me wealth.
I’m addicted to pop culture. PerezHilton.com is the homepage on my computer. I call it “getting my news.” Yet, for as interested as I am in celebrity, I don’t really want to meet any of them in person. I’m interested in them as people, not as celebs. I’m sympathetic to what it must be like living life under a microscope. I’ve been thinking of writing a novel about fame for a while.

What are you currently reading?

I am the most prolific reader I know. I average about three books a week. I will read just about any genre as long as it is well written. I’m not one of those snobs who thinks commercial fiction and literature are separate entities. Literary value can come in many forms. Lately, I have been on an Urban Fantasy kick. I am in literary love with Richelle Mead. I have read everything she has written and can’t get enough. Some of my other favorite authors are Jaye Wells, Lauren Dane, Jane Austen, TC Boyle, Louise Erdrich, Sherman Alexie, JR Ward, Edward Rutherford, DH Lawrence, Gail Carriger, Oscar Wilde and Kurt Vonnegut. See what I mean when I say I read everything?

Last spring I started a blog where I review the books that I read. It started mostly as a way for me to track the books I read and my thoughts about them. If anyone would like to see what I am currently reading, check my blog.

You definitely have eclectic taste! Thanks for including The Book Vixen to be a part of your book tour!

....................

Author Jesi Lea Ryan:

Jesi Lea Ryan was born and raised in the Mississippi River town of Dubuque, Iowa. After graduating from Loras College with degrees in Creative Writing and Literature, she relocated to Madison, Wisconsin. In addition to writing, she teaches creative writing workshops to teens through the University of Wisconsin Outreach Program, and has served as a creative writing mentor for the Young Scholars Program through the Wisconsin Center for Academically Talented Youth. Her short story “Death of a Woman” has been published in the Detroit based literary magazine The Furnace. This is her first novel.

Find the author online: blog | twitter | goodreads | facebook

GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.

Thanks to Jesi Lea Ryan, I have an eBook copy of Four Thousand Miles to giveaway!! Giveaway is open Internationally. Comments are appreciated, however, you must fill out the form below in order to enter the giveaway. Please read the Contest/Giveaway Policy for complete list of rules. Giveaway ends Friday, November 19th, 2010. Good luck to all who enter!

I’m over at A Life Bound by Books today!

2010-11-09T13:05:00.000-08:00

2010 was a great year for reading. The year’s not over yet but we’re certainly getting close. Today, I’m over at A Life Bound by Books talking about a few authors that I discovered in 2010 whose books I can’t get enough of. Please sure to stop by and check it out!

GIVEAWAY: $45 CSN Gift Certificate

2010-11-09T05:00:00.000-08:00

As one of CSN Stores Preferred Bloggers, I have been given the opportunity to host another giveaway! CSN Stores has over 200 online stores where you can find everything from contemporary coffee tables to fantastic fitness equipment to cookware! And of course, they even have bookcases.

**GIVEAWAY**

Thanks to CSN Stores, I have a $45 CSN Gift Certificate to giveaway!! Giveaway is open to US and Canada residents. Winner may need to pay shipping fees (see CSN website for details). Comments are appreciated, however, you must fill out the form below in order to enter the giveaway. Please read the Contest/Giveaway Policy for complete list of rules. Giveaway ends Tuesday, November 23rd, 2010. Good luck to all who enter!