Under the Fairy Dust

Read 146 books

2012-01-02T20:10:00.000-08:00

My 2012 resolution: read 146 books in 2012 (one more than in 2011).

My list:

January:

1. Crossed
2. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone
3. Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets
4. The Thin Man
5. Mere Christianity
6. Daughter of Smoke and Bone
7. Breakfast at Tiffany's
8. Clockwork Angel
9. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban
10. Clockwork Prince

February:

11. DNAngel Vol. 1
12. The Secret Notes of Lady Kanoko Vol. 1
13. Michael Martone
14. Delirium
15. Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
16. Twilight
17. Anthem
18. Inheritance
19. Across the Universe

List of books read for Descent of Angels Challenge

2011-05-18T21:12:00.000-07:00

here's my list of books completed for the Descent of Angels reading challenge, hosted by Books Over Boys. while i won't be posting reviews (so my entry isn't official) i will be reading the required number of books! for this challenge, i have to read 12 books in 2011 that have an angel as a main character or a main part of the plot.

Halo
City of Fallen Angels
Hush, Hush
Crescendo
Unearthly
Airel
My Soul to Lose
Branded (Fall of Angels)
Forsaken (Fall of Angels 2)
Torment
City of Bones
City of Ashes

it finally happened.

2011-03-08T11:48:00.000-08:00

Tahereh just announced the release of her debut novel--the first in a trilogy!!!! to see her entire post (if you haven't already), click here. to pre-order her book, Shatter Me, on Amazon (release date: Nov 15th, 2011) click here.

i can't wait!!! CONGRATS to Tahereh!!!

Incarceron review

2011-03-03T12:17:00.000-08:00

Incarceron by Catherine Fisher

(synopsis from Catherine Fisher's webpage)

Imagine a living prison so vast that it contains corridors and forests, cities and seas. Imagine a prisoner with no memory, who is sure he came from Outside, even though the prison has been sealed for centuries and only one man, half real, half legend, has ever escaped.
Imagine a girl in a manor house in a society where time has been forbidden, where everyone is held in a seventeenth century world run by computers, doomed to an arranged marriage that appals her, tangled in an assassination plot she both dreads and desires.
One inside, one outside
But both imprisoned.
Imagine a war that has hollowed the moon, seven skullrings that contain souls, a flying ship and a wall at the world's end.
Imagine the unimaginable.
Imagine Incarceron.

my thoughts:

this was another one of those books that i had high expectations for and then it didn't quite live up to them.

it was original and entertaining, but ultimately unsatisfactory. it was hard to get really engaged in the story or the characters. at the end, the story veered into the dangerous territory i refer to as "the abstract" where i couldn't understand what was happening...this book just wasn't what i'd hoped.

it also had an inconclusive ending. what more can i say?

my rating: 3.5

Mistwood review

2011-03-01T12:04:00.000-08:00

Happy March, everybody!

Mistwood by Leah Cypess

(synopsis from Goodreads)

The Shifter is an immortal creature bound by an ancient spell to protect the kings of Samorna. When the realm is peaceful, she retreats to the Mistwood. But when she is needed she always comes.

Isabel remembers nothing. Nothing before the prince rode into her forest to take her back to the castle. Nothing about who she is supposed to be, or the powers she is supposed to have.
Prince Rokan needs Isabel to be his Shifter. He needs her ability to shift to animal form, to wind, to mist. He needs her lethal speed and superhuman strength. And he needs her loyalty—because without it, she may be his greatest threat.
Isabel knows that her prince is lying to her, but she can't help wanting to protect him from the dangers and intrigues of the court . . . until a deadly truth shatters the bond between them.
Now Isabel faces a choice that threatens her loyalty, her heart . . . and everything she thought she knew.

my thoughts:

i have slightly mixed feelings about this book. the idea was very original, something that seems hard to find in fantasy lately. i was very excited to read the book.

i had trouble warming up to the MC, though. the Shifter sounds cool in theory, but when actually seeing everything through her eyes...well, it was kind of cold. it made it hard to really feel very affectionate about her as a character. (maybe this was just me, though)

on the plus side, i never knew what would happen next. this is the main thing that kept me reading. while this made Mistwood an interesting read, i don't know that i would want to re-read it.

however, i gotta say, Ms. Cypess didn't leave me hanging! she gets some credit for that.

my rating: 4.1

Nevermore review

2011-02-17T12:22:00.000-08:00

okay. so i know i'm not around much these days. i missed Valentine's Day (hope everybody enjoyed their day as much as i did mine!). i just finished a couple of exams (accounting and microeconomics) and i finally feel like i can breathe! school and life are a bit crazy, and meanwhile, my poor blog is being neglected.

i'm sorry.

i can't promise i'll be around more, but i'll try to be better about posting. i promise!! in the meantime....

Nevermore by Kelly Creagh

(synopsis from Goodreads)

Cheerleader Isobel Lanley is horrified when she is paired with Varen Nethers for an English project, which is due—so unfair—on the day of the rival game. Cold and aloof, sardonic and sharp-tongued, Varen makes it clear he’d rather not have anything to do with her either. But when Isobel discovers strange writing in his journal, she can’t help but give this enigmatic boy with the piercing eyes another look.

Soon, Isobel finds herself making excuses to be with Varen. Steadily pulled away from her friends and her possessive boyfriend, Isobel ventures deeper and deeper into the dream world Varen has created through the pages of his notebook, a realm where the terrifying stories of Edgar Allan Poe come to life.

As her world begins to unravel around her, Isobel discovers that dreams, like words, hold more power than she ever imagined, and that the most frightening realities are those of the mind. Now she must find a way to reach Varen before he is consumed by the shadows of his own nightmares.

His life depends on it.

my thoughts:

i loved the idea of this book the first time i heard it. the whole premise, the cover--it was seductive and enticing. actually the whole book sounded (and felt when i was reading it) like Beautiful Creatures minus the To Kill a Mockingbird influence plus some Edgar Allen Poe influence. if that makes any sense at all.

if you're a fan of Poe and a fan of YA lit, this book is for you. i loved it. i devoured the story. i liked that the author wasn't afraid to use characters that weren't necessarily instantly lovable. she made them dynamic, changing them throughout the story, which i think is missing from a lot of stories; i like being able to watch the character grow as the story goes on. it's more engaging and personal. this change was especially evident in Isobel, who went through some seriously-needed character development.

despite definite opportunities to do so, Ms. Creagh kept the story from veering into what i'd call "the abstract". the abstract never makes any sense to me. she let the story have some creative freedom without completely losing me, and i really appreciated that.

of course, no story is perfect (or at least, almost no story is). my complaint about Nevermore was....you guessed it, the cliff-hanger ending!! i cannot tell you how much these are starting to annoy me. oh well. i guess it means there's more from Ms. Creagh to look forward to, even if Nevermore had no closure.

my rating: 4.6

Hush, Hush review

2011-02-02T14:36:00.000-08:00

Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick

Romance was not part of Nora Grey's plan. She's never been particularly attracted to the boys at her school, no matter how hard her best friend, Vee, pushes them at her. Not until Patch comes along. With his easy smile and eyes that seem to see inside her, Patch draws Nora to him against her better judgment.

But after a series of terrifying encounters, Nora's not sure whom to trust. Patch seems to be everywhere she is and seems to know more about her than her closest friends. She can't decide whether she should fall into his arms or run and hide. And when she tries to seek some answers, she finds herself near a truth that is way more unsettling than anything Patch makes her feel. For she is right in the middle of an ancient battle between the immortal and those who have fallen--and, when it comes to choosing sides, the wrong choice will cost Nora her life.

my thoughts:

with all the mixed reviews on Amazon, i didn't have terribly high expectations for this book. but i needn't have worried--it was better than expected!!

Hush, Hush was like a slightly less transparent Twilight. it was less predictable. i actually didn't know what the deal was with Patch (unlike in Twilight, it was obvious Edward was a vamp). i didn't know what would happen throughout the story, even right up to the end. indeed, the plot was the highlight of the story.

the setting wasn't very strong, and some of the characters were weaker than i liked. still, the plot was interesting and strong enough to overshadow these flaws. and there was no cliff-hanger ending!!! even though there is at least one sequel, the author didn't feel the need to leave readers without any closure. and yet, i'm still eager for the sequel! nicely done, Ms. Fitzpatrick.

my rating: 4.7

Firelight review

2011-01-23T14:18:00.000-08:00

Firelight by Sophie Jordan

(synopsis from Ms. Jordan's website)

With her rare ability to breathe fire, Jacinda is special even among the draki—the descendants of dragons who can shift between human and dragon forms. But when Jacinda's rebelliousness leads her family to flee into the human world, she struggles to adapt, even as her draki spirit fades. The one thing that revives it is Will, whose family hunts her kind. Jacinda can't resist getting closer to him, even though she knows she's risking not only her life but the draki's most closely guarded secret.

my thoughts:

this book surpassed my expectations. i didn't really know what to think when i bought this, but after reading it, i was glad i'd gotten it!

Firelight was different from the other paranormal romances i've been read. it was subtly enchanting in it's own way. it didn't have the normal paranormal creatures (instead, it had the unique drakis), and Firelight had no love triangle! kudos to Ms. Jordan for breaking that trend!

Will presents a fascinating dilemma. Jacinda can't stay away from him, but being near his family is the surest way to get herself killed...it's a new level of forbidden romance.

i could feel and see the setting (an element that is too-oft neglected), which was enhanced by the draki's unique traits. the story was neatly written and sewn together so that all the elements meshed. i liked that.

on the other hand, Firelight left me hanging....just like half of the other books i've read lately. *sigh* at the very least, i wish i knew that these books were the first in a series and not stand-alones like i'd assumed.

my rating: 4.4

Matched review

2011-01-19T14:07:00.000-08:00

Matched by Ally Condie

(synopsis from Goodreads)

Cassia has always trusted the Society to make the right choices for her: what to read, what to watch, what to believe. So when Xander's face appears on-screen at her Matching ceremony, Cassia knows with complete certainty that he is her ideal mate . . . until she sees Ky Markham's face flash for an instant before the screen fades to black.

The Society tells her it's a glitch, a rare malfunction, and that she should focus on the happy life she's destined to lead with Xander. But Cassia can't stop thinking about Ky, and as they slowly fall in love, Cassia begins to doubt the Society's infallibility and is faced with an impossible choice: between Xander and Ky, between the only life she's known and a path that no one else has dared to follow.

my thoughts:

this was one of my most anticipated reads of 2010. i was waiting for months before i finally read it, and i wanted so much to love it.

well...it wasn't everything i'd hoped.

it took me a while to really get caught up in the story. however, once i did, i will admit that it was completely engaging. fighting against the government? reminiscent of The Hunger Games, definitely a plus. the concept of your true match being chosen for you? original. a fluke causing you to have two matches? very intriguing.

the story did rely on a love triangle, though, and that is quickly becoming one of the more frustrating cliches in YA lit. at least the triangle wasn't dragged out past the ending of the book. but there-in lies another of my peeves with Matched: there was no conclusion! i have to wait many more months to find out what happens?? i am so sick of waiting!

i know i'll be in line to get the next book, though. Xander, Ky, and Cassia were all compelling characters in their own way and i really, really want to know what will happen next. but i'm not forgiving Ms. Condie for leaving me hanging like that!

my rating: 4.1/5.0

Aurelia review

2011-01-18T11:52:00.000-08:00

Aurelia by Anne Osterlund

(synopsis from Fantastic Fiction)

Princess Aurelia is next in line to rule the kingdom of Tyralt, but she would rather be one of the common folk, free to learn and roam and . . . not marry the next tyrannical prince that comes courting. Naturally, the king wants Aurelia to marry for political power. Aurelia wants to marry for love. And someone in the kingdom wants her . . . dead. Assigned to investigate and protect Aurelia is Robert, the son of the king's former royal spy and one of Aurelia's oldest friends. As Aurelia and Robert slowly uncover clues as to who is threatening her, their friendship turns to romance. With everything possible on the line - her life, her kingdom, her heart - Aurelia is forced to take matters into her own hands, no matter the cost.

my thoughts:

Aurelia wasn't what i'd expected from Ms. Osterlund. i'd read Academy 7, and the two books are completely different!

pros:

Aurelia was historical fiction and mystery. i like both of those genres.
the ending was a surprise.
i liked Aurelia and the other MC, Robert.

cons:

Aurelia was definitely lacking the originality that defined Academy 7! Academy 7 was an ingenious blend of scifi/fantasy that i couldn't put down...Aurelia was pretty conventional. politics, a non-descript kingdom, and rather flat characters weren't what i was expecting after reading Academy 7.
as far as subplots go, there wasn't much to speak of. it was a fairly simple, straightforward story.

bottom line:

Aurelia was a good debut, but my experience was greatly overshadowed by how much better i know Ms. Osterlund can write. however, i am looking forward to the sequel, Exile, now that Ms. Osterlund has some additional experience writing.

my rating: 3.8

Skate review

2011-01-16T20:00:00.000-08:00

Skate by Michael Harmon

(synopsis taken from here)

Kirkus Reviews This remarkable first novel features a rebellious, smart outcast who's battling life as he struggles to take care of his little brother. Their crack-addicted mom has essentially abandoned Ian and Sam. Ian manages to protect Sam, but can't protect himself from an unscrupulous high-school principal who's determined to get Ian out of the school. When Ian loses his temper and decks his coach, he decides to take Sam and flee across the state in an effort to find their long-absent father. Harmon has crafted a tale of compelling suspense-part adolescent psychology and part survival tale-painting sharply clear portraits of his characters, particularly Ian. The result is a sense of strong realism and sympathy for the characters, even when they screw up. Were it shorter it would be perfect for reluctant readers, but surely will appeal to a wide audience. A marvelous debut. (Fiction. YA)

my thoughts:

this book was great. i honestly didn't know what to expect--i only bought the book because of it's title, Skate. (i was disappointed to discover that this book had nothing to do with either figure skating or in-line skating...) however, the title actually captures the essence of the book: should Ian stay and face people who will never treat him fairly, or should he give up and run away?

Ian's dilemma had me rooting for him from the start; he's not stupid (in fact, his smart mouth is what often gets him into trouble) but the school principle has it out for Ian. everyone from his family to the teachers at his sports-oriented school is trying to hold Ian back. he has real, in-your-face problems, and he has no one to help him figure out what to do. finally, he does the only thing he can think of: he skates away.

Skate is, ultimately, a story about when to stop skating and face your demons. it was a thought-provoking, deep story that left me feeling satisfied and introspective. it reminds the reader of what's important in life. it was one of those rare reads that i want to recommend to all teenagers and that i think would appeal even to teens who hate reading.

i would highly recommend this book.

my rating: 4.5

Stylish blogger award

2011-01-16T11:13:00.000-08:00

first and foremost, i want to thank Jess from She Known as Jess BlogSpot for giving me the Stylish Blogger Award!!!! thank you SO MUCH, Jess :)

of course, with this award comes responsibilities (yes i just totally made that sound more impressive and serious than it really is...)

these rules are as follows:

1. thank the person who gave you the award and link back to him/her
2. share 7 things about yourself
3. pass the award along to 15 other bloggers whom you have recently discovered and who you think are great
4. contact the bloggers you have chosen and let them know about the award

simple, right?

here's seven things about me:

i love pumpkin pie.
i learned to read when i was three.
i own about 800 books.
i love to take pictures but hate pictures of ME.
i recently discovered and fell in love with the game Catch Phrase.
my favorite color is lilac (but i love all shades of purple).
i have only 5 more days of my winter break left :(

AAAAND, the 15 bloggers i have chosen to pass the award on to are:

La Femme Readers
Nikki Katz
Writer's Ally -> sa larsen
Darlyn & Books
Book Whisper
Books over Boys
Confessions of a Bookaholic
I'd so rather be reading
Young Adult Literature Lover
Words on Paper
Notes from and Aspiring Writer
Luv Series Books
Literary Rambles
Kiwi's Life
Literary Explorations

congrats and enjoy, everyone!

Rise of the Renegade X review!

2011-01-13T19:00:00.000-08:00

Rise of the Renegade X by Chelsea M. Campbell

normally, this is where i'd post the "official" summary. however, i thought that the summary i found on Goodreads contained WAY too many spoilers. instead, i shall endeavor to write my own...

His sixteenth birthday. This is the moment that Damien Locke has been waiting for his entire life. It's when he will get the "V" on his thumb that marks him as a supervillian. It's the age when he can finally apply to the supervillian university and start his real training. It's the moment when hundreds of people in the city are watching him.

Except suddenly nothing's going according to plan. When the "X" appears on his thumb instead of the much-anticipated "V", Damien has to figure out what went wrong. He has to uncover his mother's shocking secret. And then he has to put everything right by proving once and for all that he is worthy of becoming a supervillian, not--heaven forbid--a superhero.

my thoughts:

first of all, don't you just love the title? i know it doesn't really have anything to do with anything, but this book has serious cover appeal.

but i digress.

this book started out a little slow (something that been happening a lot recently for some reason) but once it picked up, it was addictive. i really did not want to put the book down. Rise of the Renegade X is so different from the typical YA book--i had no idea what to expect, and the author kept delivering new surprises, twists, and turns. it was a fun, fast-paced ride.

at first, some of the characters almost felt a little cliche, but after the story picked up, they started to make their own paths and become more interesting. the characters now feel much more real to me than many YA characters (perhaps this is because none of them fell in love with a vampire/fairy/werewolf/angel/two-guys-at-the-same-time?) they provided a very refreshing break from some of the over-done plot elements in YA lit. AND Rise of the Renegade X actually had a conclusion! amazing! i was afraid that YA lit had become a solely series-based market full of books that leave me hanging....

i would definitely recommend this book (however, if it was a movie, it would have a PG13 rating for references to sexual content, so use discretion with younger readers). i can't wait to see more from this author!

my rating: 4.6

and...another challenge!

2011-01-13T17:23:00.001-08:00

aaaand here's my sign-up post for the fourth challenge i'm entering this year:

2011 Fantasy Reading Challenge

i'm choosing the Obsessed size (read 20 books)

Rise of the Renegade X
Firelight
Perchance to Dream
Hush, Hush
Mistwood
Leviathan
Crescendo
Halo
Glimmerglass
Sweep Vol. 1
Midnighters: The Secret Hour
Eon
Howl's Moving Castle
Unearthly
Shadow Kiss
The Clearing
City of Fallen Angels
Tiger's Curse
The Fellowship of the Ring
Divergent

List officially completed May 16th!

some more challenges....

2011-01-13T17:13:00.001-08:00

hey all! i've scrounged up some more interesting book challenges for 2011. here's one of them:

Into the Old World Challenge

i have to read 12 books in 2011 that were published before 2009. my (incomplete) list is below:

A Study in Scarlet
Sign of the Four
Aurelia
The Choice
Sweep Vol. 1
That Summer
Midnighters: The Secret Hour
Howl's Moving Castle
Eon
Never Eat Alone
The Fellowship of the Ring
Ella Enchanted
To Kill a Mockingbird

Challenge completed May 18th.

Clockwork Angel

2011-01-09T21:24:00.000-08:00

i now know. Cassandra Clare is the best YA author there is. i used to debate the fact (as if reading her Mortal Instruments series wasn't enough to decide me), but now that i have read Clockwork Angel, i must bow to her literary genius (in my opinion, this seductive read should have won Favorite Read of 2010, but i guess not everyone agrees with me).

bottom line: Ms. Clare is incapable of writing a book that i do not swoon over.

Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare
synopsis from B&N (warning: does contain some mild spoilers. i would recommend merely scanning it to pique your interest)

Magic is dangerous—but love is more dangerous still.

When sixteen-year-old Tessa Gray crosses the ocean to find her brother, her destination is England, the time is the reign of Queen Victoria, and something terrifying is waiting for her in London's Downworld, where vampires, warlocks and other supernatural folk stalk the gaslit streets. Only the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the world of demons, keep order amidst the chaos.

Kidnapped by the mysterious Dark Sisters, members of a secret organization called The Pandemonium Club, Tessa soon learns that she herself is a Downworlder with a rare ability: the power to transform, at will, into another person. What’s more, the Magister, the shadowy figure who runs the Club, will stop at nothing to claim Tessa's power for his own.

Friendless and hunted, Tessa takes refuge with the Shadowhunters of the London Institute, who swear to find her brother if she will use her power to help them. She soon finds herself fascinated by—and torn between—two best friends: James, whose fragile beauty hides a deadly secret, and blue-eyed Will, whose caustic wit and volatile moods keep everyone in his life at arm's length . . . everyone, that is, but Tessa. As their search draws them deep into the heart of an arcane plot that threatens to destroy the Shadowhunters, Tessa realizes that she may need to choose between saving her brother and helping her new friends save the world. . . . and that love may be the most dangerous magic of all.

my thoughts:

this book was AMAZING (as are the rest of Cassandra Clare's books). as with City of Bones, it took perhaps 50 pages for me to really get immersed in the story, but once i did, i was hooked.

it was similar to the Mortal Instruments books, but Clockwork Angel offered a fresh cast, new setting (including a different time period since this is the PREQUEL to the Mortal Instruments books), and completely original plot. it was the best of Cassandra Clare with a new face. what more could a fan ask for?

i found myself just as torn as Tessa between the two love interests, Will and James. this was important for making the "love triangle" viable because, of course, love triangle are a much-overdone element in YA lit right now and they hardly ever fail to frustrate me. JUST PICK A GUY AND STOP TORMENTING EVERYONE!!! uh *cough* did i just say that out loud? anyway, when the decision is obvious, i get angry with the vapid and indecisive MC for procrastinating. at least Tessa had adequate reason to do so.

i am hopelessly addicted to Cassandra Clare's books. if you haven't yet, i would highly recommend reading the Immortal Instruments series and THEN reading Clockwork Angel. although, i do have one disclaimer: Clockwork Angel left me hanging at the most painfully exciting part--so if you have the self-restraint, you might want to wait to read it until the sequel is out.

it is because of my extreme impatience due to the unfortunately-timed ending that i must mark Clockwork Angel down slightly:

my rating: 4.9/5.0

of course, if i somehow got a sneak peek at the next book (read: an entire ARC) i would definitely add on the missing 0.1 to that rating.
no? oh well, a girl can dream....

check out the prizes at Blogalicious

2011-01-06T13:27:00.000-08:00

Bookalicio.us is hosting a two-year blogoversary giveaway, and the prizes, which include THIS, (hint, hint, it's a NookColor) are AWESOME! i highly recommend checking it out!

Perchance to Dream review

2011-01-06T13:09:00.000-08:00

Perchance to Dream by Lisa Mantchev (blurb from Goodreads)

From the critically acclaimed author of Eyes Like Stars

We are such stuff as dreams are made on.

Act Two, Scene One

Growing up in the enchanted Thèâtre Illuminata, Beatrice Shakespeare Smith learned everything about every play ever written. She knew the Players and their parts, but she didn’t know that she, too, had magic. Now, she is the Mistress of Revels, the Teller of Tales, and determined to follow her stars. She is ready for the outside world.

Enter BERTIE AND COMPANY

But the outside world soon proves more topsy-turvy than any stage production. Bertie can make things happen by writing them, but outside the protective walls of the Thèâtre, nothing goes as planned. And her magic cannot help her make a decision between—

Nate: Her suave and swashbuckling pirate, now in mortal peril.

Ariel: A brooding, yet seductive, air spirit whose true motives remain unclear.

When Nate is kidnapped and taken prisoner by the Sea Goddess, only Bertie can free him. She and her fairy sidekicks embark on a journey aboard the Thèâtre’s caravan, using Bertie’s word magic to guide them. Along the way, they collect a sneak-thief, who has in his possession something most valuable, and meet The Mysterious Stranger, Bertie’s father—and the creator of the scrimshaw medallion. Bertie’s dreams are haunted by Nate, whose love for Bertie is keeping him alive, but in the daytime, it’s Ariel who is tantalizingly close, and the one she is falling for. Who does Bertie love the most? And will her magic be powerful enough to save her once she enters the Sea Goddess’s lair?

Once again, LISA MANTCHEV has spun a tale like no other—full of romance, magic, adventure, and fairies, too—that readers won’t want to put down, even after the curtain has closed.

My review:

I was so excited to read this. I LOVED Eyes Like Stars, and I had high expectations for the sequel. I read it yesterday, and all I can think is "what just happened??"

I hate to admit that this book didn't live up to my expectations. I don't like to give an author a negative review, especially when I've liked their writing in the past, but half the time, I couldn't figure out what in the world was happening! In my opinion, the action in a well-written book shouldn't be difficult to follow if you've been paying attention, and creativity does not involve strange, abstract action. When I could follow what was happening, I enjoyed the book. When I couldn't, I just tried to get through to a part that made sense. Unfortunately, I have to say that my overall impression of this book was that it fell short. It seemed like the author was rushed and was trying too hard.

My rating: 3.0

a typical day in my house....

2011-01-04T13:35:00.000-08:00

A scene greets my gaze as I bound down the stairs:

My mom and my dog ‘cross the room.

The first is quite mad and is standing stock still,

The second prepares for her tomb.

I watch the scene slowly unfold with the air,

Of a duel ‘tween two favorite champs,

And I think to myself as I stare at my dog,

“She hasn’t got a biggeting chance.”

My mom flings her arm towards the dog-darning proof:

Two socks and a much-chewed-up shoe,

And she says in a voice that thunders with fury,

“That’s IT! Dog, I’m all done with you!”

I leap to Dog’s aid and drag her away,

Her tail alive with new spite,

As she barely escapes from the murderous wrath,

That ought to have made her contrite.

My mom fumes at me now instead of the dog,

And I listen with head rightly bent.

Her reprimand’s tough but I hold on until,

Her bitter cold fury is spent.

Later that day I walk down the stairs,

Ending my coward’s retreat,

And I see on the couch in a rock-solid sleep,

My mom with the dog at her feet.

should make a good Mother's Day Present, don't you think?

100 Books in 2011

2011-01-03T21:33:00.000-08:00

it's that time again...time to sign up for challenges that will last throughout 2011!

i have begun signing up, and one challenge that i'm very excited about (i did it in 2010) is the 100+ book challenge. if you're interested, please head over to Home Girl's Book Blog for more info!

the books i will be reading this year will be listed below...you can check back all year to keep an eye on my progress! (but i won't be offended if you don't..;) )

Rise of the Renegade X
Firelight
Perchance to Dream
Hush, Hush
A Study in Scarlet (Arthur Conan Doyle)
Sign of the Four (Arthur Conan Doyle)
The Choice
Mistwood
Aurelia
Leviathan
Halo
Delirium
Crescendo
Glimmerglass
That Summer
Rules of Attraction
Sweep Vol. 1
Change of Heart
Midnighters: The Secret Hour
Never Eat Alone
Eon
Howl's Moving Castle
The Half-Life of Planets
Bright Young Things
White Cat
Shadow Kiss
Jellicoe Road
The Ivy
Tell Me a Secret
Scent of the Missing
The Clearing
City of Fallen Angels
Unearthly
The Dark and Hollow Places
Tiger's Curse
What Happened to Goodbye
The Fellowship of the Ring
Divergent
Demonglass
Ella Enchanted
To Kill A Mockingbird
Water Song
Alice in the Country of Hearts Vol. 1
User Unfriendly
Uglies
Pretties
Specials
Extras
I Capture the Castle
A Countess Below Stairs
The Sky is Everywhere
Academy 7
The Magicians' Guild
The Novice
The High Lord
Crown Duel
Court Duel
Twisted
Inda
Between the Lines
A Stranger to Command
A Little Princess
Anne of Green Gables
Pride and Prejudice
Anne of Avonlea
Anne of the Island
The False Princess
Beautiful Disaster
Emma
Minder
Treasure Island
Under the Greenwood Tree
Ariel (The Ariel Saga, Book 1)
Cross My Heart
The Princess Test
My Soul to Lose
The Two Princesses of Bamarre
Hush Money
A Memory of Wind
Wicked Cool
Moon Spell
Wild Montana Sky
Meant to Be
River Cast
Marshal in Petticoats
Blood Solstice
The Cinderella Swap
The Fallen Star
Destiny Binds
Wren Journeymage
Rock and a Hard Place
Hidden Gem
Clarity
Flat-Out Love
LURE
Ordinary Me
Eden
The Summer I Turned Pretty
Dead Beautiful
The Host
Forsaken (Fall of Angels)
Branded (Fall of Angels)
Dragonsong
My Side of the Mountain
The Goose Girl
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows
Secrets and Shadows
Torment
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
Blood Promise
Hattie Big Sky
Water for Elephants
The Gray Wolf Throne
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix
Watership Down
The Night Circus
Eona
The Handmaid's Tale
The Kitchen House
Winter Sea
Howl's Moving Castle (audiobook)
The Kitchen House
The Book of Shadows
The Rose Garden
The Help
The Scorpio Races
Divergent (audiobook)
Hidden Gem 2: Diamond in the Rough
The Hunger Games
Catching Fire
Mockingjay
Shatter Me
Eragon
City of Bones
City of Ashes
City of Glass
Eldest
Legend
Wintergirls
Shadowspell
Ender's Game
Ten Things We Did (and probably shouldn't have)
Atlas Shrugged
Matched

and the winner is...!

2010-12-27T10:10:00.000-08:00

thank you so much to everyone who participated in my big end-of-year giveaway!

and now, without further ado, the winner is:

Heather McCorkle!

congratulations, Heather!!! i will be emailing you imminently :)

*winner was selected randomly via this link

YA Highway--Roadtrip Wednesday

2010-12-22T12:06:00.000-08:00

okay, so i don't normally do road trip wednesday (hosted by YA Highway) but the question this week was really fun, so i thought i'd give it a try.

This Week's Topic:
Give a book character a Christmas present!

so, if you could give your favorite book character a present this Christmas, what would it be?

well, i don't know about you, but i always find myself cringing when a favorite character is dashing about doing herioc-charactery things and DOESN'T HAVE ANYTHING TO EAT!!!!

i mean, that is the worst. i myself cannot go more than six hours without food (i've tested this...and no, i don't know what happens after six hours. i never make it that far because i can usually find food by then.)

SO, even though this feels like a not-so-clever/somewhat-unoriginal response, i would choose to give one of my favorite characters (Meliara Astiar from Crown Duel/Court Duel) a nice big meal!

hey, it's a step towards ending world hunger in OTHER worlds--a noble goal, don't you think?

what character would YOU give a present to, and what would that present be?

also, in other news, my blog giveaway ends in five days (see post on extension below if you are confused). remember, you have to fill out the form to be entered! and thank you to everyone who has entered so far and promoted the giveaway--you'll see i am now well over 100 followers!! thank you so much, guys :) YOU ARE ALL AWESOME!!

Important Announcement!

2010-12-18T16:25:00.001-08:00

hey everyone! sorry this is so last minute, but i'm announcing an extension to my contest. instead of ending 12/20 (Monday), it will end on 12/27 (the Monday right after Christmas).

thank you to those who have entered already, and good luck!!

'tis the season....

2010-12-13T12:32:00.001-08:00

...of many giveaways! and i intend to join in the festive fun with a giveaway of my own!!

so what are the prizes? ONE winner will have a choice between THREE prize packs:

Cassandra Clare Prize Pack:

a box set of the Mortal Instruments series (books 1-3) click to read my review!
a copy of Clockwork Angel

Books Galore Prize Pack:

Three hardback/paperbacks of your choice

Multimedia Prize Pack:

A CD of your choice
A DVD of your choice
A book of your choice

*NOTE: all items "of your choice" must each be under $15 and must be eligible on Amazon.com for free shipping

RULES:

must be a blog follower to enter
must spread the word about the contest somewhere (Twitter, blog, etc.)
no international shipping (must live in/have address in U.S.)

alright! that covers just about everything...contest ends December 20th (so the winner can look forward to their prize as a post-Christmas/Hanuka/uh...New Year's! present)

good luck! here's the form to enter.

The Mortal Instruments

2010-12-10T22:30:00.000-08:00

hey! Long time no see, right? well, i am only one online final away from winter break. with the fall semester and NaNoWriMo behind me (or almost behind me, i should say), i finally have time for blogging again!

phew. it's good to be back.

i haven't been completely preoccupied with studying and writing, though--i found some great reads during November and the beginning of December.

starting with the Mortal Instruments series.

i started reading these books because of all the hype about Clockwork Angel. actually, to be more specific, i started reading the first installment, City of Bones, right when i was supposed to be studying for finals.

BIG MISTAKE.

this series was seriously addictive. i haven't found such a good series in a very long time--and i couldn't put the books down. i HAD to have the next one as soon as i finished reading City of Bones, and then after i finished City of Ashes.

bottom line: these books are awesome. my rating of the series: 5.0 thus far

Short Synopsis of City of Bones (courtesy of Wikipedia):

When fifteen-year-old Clary Fray heads out to the Pandemonium Club in New York City, she hardly expects to witness a murder—much less a murder committed by three teenagers covered with strange tattoos and brandishing bizarre weapons. Clary knows she should call the police, but it's hard to explain a murder when the body disappears into thin air and the murderers are invisible to everyone but Clary.

Equally startled by her ability to see them, the murderers explain themselves as Shadowhunters: a secret tribe of warriors dedicated to ridding the earth of demons. Within twenty-four hours, Clary's mother disappears and Clary herself is almost killed by a grotesque demon. But why would demons be interested in ordinary mundanes like Clary and her mother? And how did Clary suddenly get the Sight? The Shadowhunters would like to know...

this summary can hardly do the story justice. hopefully, though, it has peaked your interest and you will now rush out and buy the whole series (for yourself! for Christmas!) and will join me as a hopeless Mortal Instruments addict waiting ravenously for the next three books in the series.

and in the meantime, i have Clockwork Angel on my TBR list to keep me from completely despairing as i wait for Spring 2011 and the release of City of Fallen Angels....

it's over

2010-11-29T18:24:00.000-08:00

dear readers,

it is over. i am officially done with NaNoWriMo 2010! and a day early, too...

i am exhausted from my mad writing venture, but exhilarated that i wrote 50k words this month. i will take a small break to rest my writing voice, and then i shall be back with a contest! stay tuned for more details...

i hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving and a fantastic November!

NaNoWriMo

2010-11-01T00:00:00.000-07:00

it's here! the aforementioned NaNoWriMo. i will be taking a break from blogging during the month of November while i attempt to reach my 50k word goal...if you're interested in joining in the fun, you can find NaNo here.

meanwhile, the widget below will be keeping track of my word count...

see you in December!!

Percy Jackson books

2010-10-30T22:40:00.000-07:00

after hearing positive reviews about them, i decided to read the first three Percy Jackson books by Rick Riordan.

first book: The Lightning Thief

synopsis (from Rick Riordan's website):

What if the gods of Olympus were alive in the 21^st Century? What if they still fell in love with mortals and had children who might become great heroes — like Theseus, Jason and Hercules?

What if you were one of those children?

Such is the discovery that launches twelve-year-old Percy Jackson on the most dangerous quest of his life. With the help of a satyr and a daughter of Athena, Percy must journey across the United States to catch a thief who has stolen the original weapon of mass destruction – Zeus’ master bolt. Along the way, he must face a host of mythological enemies determined to stop him. Most of all, he must come to terms with a father he has never known, and an Oracle that has warned him of betrayal by a friend.

my thoughts (on all three books):

i enjoyed them. they are clearly written for kids, but i found them entertaining and creative. atypically (for me, anyway), i was able to predict what was about to happen before it did happen, but this didn't really take away from the stories. i liked the themes, plots, and characters, but again, they appeal to a younger audience than the kinds of books i typically read.

the take on Greek mythology really was the big selling point for me. i have a personal interest in Greek mythology, and i think Riordan did an admirable job of modernizing such ancient stories and making his version unique. their creativity is their strongest attribute.

bottom line: excellent children's books. i don't agree with the comparisons to Harry Potter (nothing compares to HP!!), but i would definitely recommend the Percy Jackson books to anyone looking for a good series for all ages.

my rating: 4.4

The Book Thief

2010-10-27T12:30:00.000-07:00

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

synopsis (from Markus Zusak's webpage):

It’s just a small story really, about among other things: a girl, some words, an accordionist, some fanatical Germans, a Jewish fist-fighter, and quite a lot of thievery. . . .

Set during World War II in Germany, Markus Zusak’s groundbreaking new novel is the story of Liesel Meminger, a foster girl living outside of Munich. Liesel scratches out a meager existence for herself by stealing when she encounters something she can’t resist–books. With the help of her accordion-playing foster father, she learns to read and shares her stolen books with her neighbors during bombing raids as well as with the Jewish man hidden in her basement before he is marched to Dachau.

This is an unforgettable story about the ability of books to feed the soul.

my thoughts:

i actually put off reading this book for a long time. i'd see it in stores, but then right next to it (or several shelves away, sometimes my attention wanders in bookstores) would be a shiny new fantasy novel!!!!

i am weak. i always picked the fantasy.

but one day i finally gave in and got this book because so many people have read it and it has such good reviews.

confession: i didn't even know what it was really about.

i also didn't know what i had been missing. this book was utterly brilliant. i could not agree more with the review i kept rereading on the cover:

"Brilliant and hugely ambitious...It's the kind of book that can be life-changing."--The New York Times

so true. i don't even know how else to describe how amazing The Book Thief is. how captivating and powerful Liesel's story is. it's the kind of book that i think everyone should read at some point in their lives, and i cannot recommend it enough.

especially for a writer, i don't think there's a better book to read. the characters, the setting, the plot, the style, the way Zusak described things, his foreshadowing, use of pathos, the underlying theme--the list goes on and on, and NONE of it could possibly have been any better. it is the best example (i think) that you will find of a perfect book.

of course, i do have one "complaint". well, more of a warning, really. i NEVER cry when reading books. i think it might have happened twice in my life (example: i cried when i read Marley and Me right after my black lab died from cancer). however, i sobbed buckets over this book.
disclaimer: I AM ONLY MENTIONING THIS SO YOU CAN STOCK UP ON TISSUES. THIS IS IN NO WAY A REASON NOT TO READ IT.

in case you need any further convincing, my rating for The Book Thief is 5.0 (out of 5.0)

intrigued? you can read the first chapter or two online for free here

catching up...

2010-10-25T21:14:00.000-07:00

some news in the blogosphere: if you haven't heard, Sandy Shin is now Emy Shin!! her new blog (and blog contest!!) is at this link. she is giving away an ARC of Matched by Ally Condie, which happens to be one of the most anticipated new releases on my wish list.

head on over to Emy's new blog to enter! good luck :)

Radiance

2010-10-19T22:18:00.000-07:00

Radiance by Alyson Noel

synopsis (from Alyson Noel's website):

Riley Bloom left her sister, Ever, in the world of the living and crossed the bridge into the afterlife—a place called Here, where time is always Now. Riley and her dog, Buttercup, have been reunited with her parents and are just settling into a nice, relaxing death when she's summoned before The Council. They let her in on a secret—the afterlife isn't just an eternity of leisure; Riley has to work. She's been assigned a job, Soul Catcher, and a teacher, Bodhi, a curious boy she can't quite figure out.

Riley, Bodhi, and Buttercup return to earth for her first assignment, a Radiant Boy who's been haunting a castle in England for centuries. Many Soul Catchers have tried to get him to cross the bridge and failed. But he's never met Riley...

my thoughts:

this was unlike any other book i've ever read. for one thing, Noel puts very little emphasis on grammatical correctness. never fearing to use dependent clauses without an independent clause to support them. over and over again. almost enough to drive me crazy after a dozen pages. telling myself to keep going, keep going.

yeah, it pretty much read like that for long, dragging sections during the story. it was very distracting (and tiring).

this is definitely my biggest complain about the book. it is very rare that a technical element of a book makes me want to stop reading, but that nearly happened with Radiance.

also, it took me a while to warm up to the protagonist, Riley. she was very whiny. however, by the second half of the book, i found myself enjoying the story despite these faults. it was, as i mentioned, very different from anything else i've read. it wasn't thrilling, but it caught a hold of my imagination. i enjoyed seeing Riley have to struggle with some interesting challenges and show that she is more than a useless whiner. i experienced the revelations of the story along side her. i laughed and smiled and caught my breath at the ingenious details Noel wrote into the story.

i changed my mind. i was impressed.

i definitely will read the sequel, and i will also recommend this book.

ultimate rating: 4.0

and the award goes to...

2010-10-17T10:32:00.000-07:00

(so SORRY for how long it took to post this!)

Cass at Words on Paper was amazingly sweet and gave me the One Lovely Blog Award (thank you so much, Cass!!), and Jessi from The Elliot Review just gave me the Life is Good award (thank you, thank you, thank you!!), both of which i am now going to pass on!

One Lovely Blog Award official rules:

Accept the award, post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award and his or her blog link.

Pass the award to 15 other blogs that you’ve newly discovered.
Remember to contact the bloggers to let them know they have been chosen for this award.

the blogs i've chosen for the award:

A Romantic Enters the World

Alison Can Read

Books Complete Me

Citraberry Book Reviews

Epic Book Nerd

Grab a Pen

Heather's Odyssey

MBWcreates

My Sphere of Domesticity

Nikki Katz

That Bookish Girl

The Bookish Snob

The Undercover Book Lover

YA Addict

Life is Good award:

To accept the award you must link back and thank the person who gave you the Life is Good Award and then answer the ten survey questions. Then you can pass it along to other blogs.

1. If you blog anonymously are you happy doing it that way; if you are not anonymous do you wish you had started out anonymously so you could be anonymous now?

actually, i do blog under a semi-false name. Kari is my name but not how i actually spell it. right now, it doesn't really matter to me if i'm anonymous or not! i just don't like to give out too much personal info on the internet.

2.Describe one incident that shows your inner stubborn side:

when i was eight, my family went to Disneyland. there was this ride that went high up in the air and then dropped straight back to the ground. i really wanted to ride it, so i promised i wouldn't get scared (needless to say, my parents did not believe me. they finally relented, though). i was extremely nervous, but i was just as determined to tough it out. we got on the ride, it rose, i tried to hide my terror, it dropped.
i didn't know whether i wanted to scream or cry or laugh. tentatively, my dad asked if I was okay.
I blinked, opened my mouth, and stood dumbly for a moment. then: "LET'S DO IT AGAIN!"
my stubbornness at work.

3.What do you see when you really look at yourself in the mirror?

Too short. I really need some of Treebeard's magic water...

4. What is your favorite summer cold drink?

peach tea smoothie from Next Coffee. utterly amazing and delicious.

5. When you take time for yourself, what do you do?

read, write, blog, social network, play RockBand 2. lately, i've also been watching Vampire Diaries.

6.Is there something you still want to accomplish in your life? What is it?

WRITE A NOVEL AND GET PUBLISHED!!!

7. When you attended school, were you the class clown, the class overachiever , the shy person, or always ditching?

i was anything i wanted to be--the smartest, the funniest, the most confident. the beauty of homeschooling! i never could get away with ditching, though...

8. If you close your eyes and want to visualize a very poignant moment of your life what would you see?

bringing my four-month-old puppy home for the first time. she had fallen asleep on my lap.

9. Is it easy for you to share your true self in your blog or are you more comfortable writing posts about other people or events?

other people or events (or books!)

10. If you had the choice to sit down and read or talk on the phone, which would you do and why?

READ. i hate talking on the phone. i text and email!

okay, thanks for slogging through all that! now, the good stuff: i'm passing the award on to:

Molly
Sandy (Emy) Shin
S. A. Larsen
Tahereh

National Novel Writing Month

2010-10-06T20:39:00.000-07:00

Thirty Days and Nights of Literary Abandon!!

this is what started it all for me.

okay, not really. i was already writing. but NaNoWriMo made me so serious about writing that i started to do research about authors, about agents, about what it takes to get published. for the first time, it was real. i started to think, can i or can't i do this? what will it really take?

and then i wrote 50,000 words in a month. it was amazing.

wait, what is NaNoWriMo?? i guess i'm getting ahead of myself.

for those of you who haven't heard, NaNo is a website where writers gather every year in November. these writers undertake the challenge of trying to write 50,000 words in one month (yes, you read that right). if you hate math, i'll save you the headache and tell you that that come out to 1,667 words per day.

it's insane.

it's stressful.

it's hard.

it's so worth it.

i don't even know what my favorite part of NaNo is. the pep talk emails in my own inbox from famous authors whose books i actually own?? talking to other writers who are also taking part in this crazy challenge??? or was it the fact that i actually wrote 50,000 words in one month??

it was all amazing.

if you want to learn more, definitely stop by NaNo and see if it's something you want to join in on. you've got almost a month to decide...see you in November!!

let the writing begin.

oh, and one last thing: during NaNo, i will be AWOL on all social networking sites--which includes my blog! BUT you can always stop by to check out my word count. just a heads-up!

Paranormalcy!

2010-10-06T20:10:00.000-07:00

Paranormalcy by Kiersten White.

synopsis (from Ms. White's webpage):

Evie’s always thought of herself as a normal teenager, even though she works for the International Paranormal Containment Agency, her ex-boyfriend is a faerie, she’s falling for a shape-shifter, and she’s the only person who can see through paranormals’ glamours.

But Evie’s about to realize that she may very well be at the center of a dark faerie prophecy promising destruction to all paranormal creatures.

So much for normal.

it seems like all too often, the books i'm excited for and dying to read just don't live up to the hype. or their beautiful covers.

i am SO glad to say that this was not the case with Paranormalcy! my rating: 4.6

this book rocks. the voice, the paranormal creatures, and the story were all wonderfully fresh. reading Paranormalcy was like a splash of cool water--tingly, exciting, and at times, downright startling. even when i thought i knew what was going to happen, i really didn't. the story was utterly unpredictable.

my one complaint: too much was left unfinished! but i guess that's where the sequel comes in...eventually. bleep! i hate waiting for a good book. please hurry, Ms. White!

Jane by April Linder

2010-10-06T19:45:00.000-07:00

wow, this review has been way-too-long over-due. sorry, guys!

in case you can't tell by the title, Jane is a re-telling of Jane Eyre (by Charlotte Bronte).

before i can even talk about the book, though, i have a major confession to make: i don't really like the whole classic-retelling genre. it seems like half the romances out there are retellings of Pride and Prejudice, and then of course there's the whole Pride and Prejudice and Zombies series of bizarre spin-offs (which didn't really do much for me, honestly). of course, you're welcome to your own opinion on this genre! maybe you love the retellings. i just feel that they've gotten a bit out of control.

okay, rant over. back to the book.

synopsis (from author April Lindner's page):

Forced to drop out of an esteemed East Coast college after the sudden death of her parents, Jane Moore takes a nanny job at Thornfield Park, the estate of Nico Rathburn, a world-famous rock star on the brink of a huge comeback. Practical and independent, Jane reluctantly becomes entranced by her magnetic and brooding employer and finds herself in the midst of a forbidden romance. But there's a mystery at Thornfield, and Jane's much-envied relationship with Nico is soon tested by an agonizing secret from his past. Torn between her feelings for Nico and his fateful secret, Jane must decide: Does being true to herself mean giving up on true love?An irresistible romance interwoven with a darkly engrossing mystery, this contemporary retelling of the beloved classic Jane Eyre promises to enchant a new generation of readers.

needless to say, i was a little apprehensive when picking up Jane. but then i thought about it: a retelling of Jane Eyre? okay, that would have to be quite a bit different than a spin-off on Pride and Prejudice...the theme is much harder to copy...this could be interesting. and i did love the idea of a rock star being Mr. Rochester.

and then? i fell in love with the book. i hated it when i had to stop reading. i marvelled at how the story transferred so well to a modern setting. i felt as though i had rediscovered an old friend.

April Lindner is a genius. bottom line.

naturally, there aren't a lot of twists in the story if you've already read Jane Eyre--most of the creativity is in the way Ms. Lindner adapted the classic. however, if you aren't familiar with Jane Eyre, you will still be hooked because Jane completely recaptures the mystery and subtle charm of the original romance. it's the perfect retelling for readers who are or aren't familiar with the original classic!!

didn i mention April Lindner is a genius??

Jane will be officially released on October 11th. i don't normally do this, but i am urging those of you who love British classics as well as modern lit to do yourselves a favor and pick up a copy!

my rating out of 5.0: 4.9

quick memo...

2010-09-27T21:18:00.000-07:00

hey, everyone! just stopping by for a quick memo.

are you interested in winning a prize pack of three books? well, stop by The Undercover Book Lover by Oct. 15 and enter to win one of four great prize packs!!

but, fair warning, i call dibs on the Awesome Pack.

; )

good luck! and let the Hungry for HarperTeen contest begin!!

in my mailbox! (finally)

2010-09-25T18:54:00.001-07:00

IMM is hosted by the Story Siren.

this post has been delayed way too long. i missed the last two Saturdays, which is why my mailbox is so full this weekend...

so, without further ado (in order of most recently to least recently received):

Hush, Hush; Jellicoe Road; A Bend in the Road; A Walk to Remember (soundtrack); The Demon King; and Blood and Chocolate (movie)

won: Jane by April Linder (thank you so much, Sara McClung!!)

Paranormalcy; first three Percy Jackson (Lightning Thief) books; Incarceron!

the books i've read so far were great! i can't wait to read the rest : )

what's in your mailbox??

let the games begin!

2010-09-23T22:39:00.000-07:00

TAG! i'm it!

this is an international game of tag, and i've been tagged by YA Bookie Monster! first, i have to answer questions about me, and then i tag four more people : )

let the games begin...

4 Things in my Purse:

my phone (a blackberry), my driver's license, cash (no credit cards here), and water (one of my weird family quirks, we always bring water bottles everywhere we go)

4 Things in my Desk:

spiral notebooks, more cash (in case you're planning on robbing my house....), a stationary box, post-its (still there because i rarely use them)

4 Favorite Things in my Bedroom:

my clothes, LOTS of books, my mp3 player, my desks (i have 2, can't have enough of those!)

4 Things I Always Wanted to Do (but haven't yet):

be a published writer! win a major skating competition (not going to happen, but still...). graduate college (looks promising). travel to England.

4 Things I Enjoy Very Much at the Moment:

reading, watching Smallville and Vampire Diaries, ACC 232 (VERY WEIRD I ACTUALLY LIKE THIS), writing!

4 Songs I Can't Get Out of My Head:

The Animal, Innocence, Asylum, Another Way to Die.
yeah, Disturbed's new album just came out....

4 Things you Don't Know About Me:

i'm a freshman at ASU (or did you know that??).
i'm a brunette.
if my house was burning down and i could save only one object, it would be my laptop....uh, probably.
i like to play guitar on RockBand.

okay! now it's your turn! i tag...Sandy Shin, Alison Can Read, Substitute Teacher's Saga (Theresa Milstein), and Writer's Alley (S. A. Larsen)

ready, set, GO!!!

banned books

2010-09-20T15:49:00.000-07:00

okay, so i realize (now) that i'm a bit late on the uptake, but apparently there's been some anti-book-banning sentiment going around the blogosphere (yes, i am very out of touch these days...). after looking into it, i discovered a few things that blew my mind.

i clicked on this link and found that Because of Winn Dixie, Charlotte's Web, Little House on the Prairie, the Chronicles of Narnia, the Harry Potter books, Frindle, Little Women, and A Wrinkle in Time all have something in common: they belong on the list of Challenged Children's Books. (on the Young Adult list I also found Hawksong, Julie of the Wolves, and Sarah Dessen's books on the Young Adult list)

are. you. freaking. kidding. me????

now, i certainly can't speak for all readers, but i think this is obscene. i have wonderful childhood memories from reading some of these books. they are books that i simply can't imagine not reading--let alone banning!

sure, there are books on this list that i don't like: A Series of Unfortunate Events (ultimately depressing), Blood and Chocolate (not my taste), Philip Pullman's Dark Materials series (anti-Christian), Lord of the Flies (DISTURBING), but banning these books goes against everything i believe in as a reader, writer, American, and Christian (i feel it is important to point out this last 'label' because too many Christians are known for jumping on the book-banning bandwagon. what i think these people don't realize is that it VIOLATES our free will to ban books--even if we don't like what they say. every person deserves the right to choose for themselves.)

bottom line: banning these books? UNCONSCIONABLE.

now, DON'T GET ME WRONG. i am also not an advocate of requiring that children read controversial books. requiring children to read such controversial books that their parents do not approve of is at least as bad as banning them, in my opinion. you are still making the decision for the children. it is still a violation of free will. i understand that students need to complete required reading for school, but picking the most controversial books and forcing children to read them--that's despicable. at least save the controversial stuff for when the kids are actually old enough to understand it.

want to share your thoughts/opinions or learn more? check out this link to read about the Banned Books Reading Challenge.

I MISS YOU GUYS!!!

2010-09-17T19:20:00.000-07:00

i know i haven't been around much. i know i haven't been visiting your blogs and reading your posts and talking very much at all...for a while now.

and i want you to know that it isn't because i don't care!! i miss reading your posts and exchanging comments and hearing about wonderful books.

i'm trying to keep up, but i feel like i'm slipping behind.

i also have to make another confession: i didn't make my writing goal this week. i haven't had any time for writing (test week at ASU). BUT i did THINK of an idea for my WIP...i just haven't written it down yet.

so, i just wanted to tell you that i read all your comments on my blog and still love hearing from you. but i realize that goes both ways. i will try to be better about reading your blogs, too, and i hope you won't forget about me!

here's your chance to catch me up: what's been going on lately? did anything exciting happen this week? did you discover a new book that you love or really tackle a writing project? did you make a goal and meet it? or is busy life eating away your time, too?

i really do want to know.

manga reviews: Black Butler

2010-09-12T11:22:00.000-07:00

yes, i am completely obsessed with manga now. blame my sister--she got me hooked.

my latest foray into Japanese lit? Black Butler Vol. 1 by Yana Toboso

(synopsis from US version, edited to exclude spoilers)

Just a stone's throw from London lies the manor house of the illustrious Phantomhive earldom and its master, one Ciel Phantomhive. Earl Phantomhive is a giant in the world of commerce, Queen Victoria's faithful servant...and a slip of a twelve-year-old boy. Fortunately, his loyal butler, Sebastian, is ever at his side, ready to carry out the young master's wishes. And whether Sebastian is called to save a dinner party gone awry or probe the dark secrets of London's underbelly, there apparently is nothing Sebastian cannot do. In fact, one might say Sebastian is too good to be true...

i thought the Japanese take on Victorian London was very interesting. once the story picked up (i always have trouble getting starting manga series), i enjoyed it--but the part i enjoyed the most was the ending! it's always sad when i get into the story most right at the end! Vol. 2 will surely find its way to my bookshelves before long.

i wouldn't recommend this manga series to someone who has never read manga before. these Japanese comics can be an acquired taste, and Black Butler isn't my favorite manga so far. however, i would definitely recommend Black Butler if you absolutely love manga.

(4.0)

what i've been reading: Obernewtyn

2010-09-10T17:13:00.000-07:00

Obernewtyn by Isobelle Carmody

my synopsis (contains information largely from the prologue and the official blurb, aka, no real spoilers)

basic plot:

Set in a post-apocalyptic world (after humanity was nearly destroyed, presumably by nuclear bombs), Obernewtyn follows the story of an orphan girl: Elspeth. Elspeth's parents were burned for sedition against the Council. Her brother is trying to join the Herder faction (a fanatical religious order who condemn anyone who displays strange abilities caused by the Great White). And Elspeth herself is a Misfit--a cursed human mutant. If discovered, she faces death.

additional info:

The world has undergone many changes. After "The Great White" (the nuclear apocalypse, also known as the holocaust), only those who lived in remote regions still survived. To ensure their continued survival, they slaughtered any who showed signs of sickness from the nuclear fallout. They imposed rigid rules and burned those who went against the Council.

Now, the Council still fears anything related to the Great White--including the possibility of another such disaster. They do not hesitate to remove anyone who speaks out against it, anyone who shows signs of being affected by the Great White (Misfits), and anything that might contain knowledge from the Beforetime. Beforetime books are forbidden. Technology is lost. The world is rudimentary, brutal, and unforgiving with little chance of change...

my thoughts:

the premise of Obernewtyn is more sci-fi-ish than i had originally expected. however, the story felt more like fantasy than sci-fi, so it didn't really bother me (i am generally NOT a sci-fi fan).

Elspeth appears to start out as an unsympathetic character who shrinks away from everyone around her. however, the reader soon discovers that her apparent indifference is really because friends are a luxury she cannot afford. as an orphan, her life is hard, and attachments are dangerous. saying the wrong thing can spell their doom, and associating with the wrong people can likewise mean death.

Elspeth's plight against the totalitarian "government" is very compelling. she is talented, smart, brave--everything a heroine needs. the world is utterly serious, creating an unforgettable setting. escape, mystery, sacrifice--i never knew what would come next. Carmody has a talent for never letting the story begin to slacken. she simply twists it around and keeps the reader guessing.

overall rating: (4.5)

weekly goal-setting

2010-09-10T10:58:00.000-07:00

hey everybody, sorry i missed this post last week. too much craziness with school!

for now, i'm just going to stick with finding some time to work on writing at least once a week (to keep me sane). i find i have a new appreciation for people with busy schedules!

my greater focus this month and next will be on reading. nothing works as well as reading when i need to forget about studying for a while!

how have you been? have you been setting writing goals, or is busy, crazy life getting to you, too? what have you been reading lately? and what's your writing/reading goal this week? when every day is full of work or an endless to do checklist, setting goals seems like the only way to get anything done! besides, when the week is done, it's nice to look back and say, "yes, i did do something this week. i wrote...3000 words of my WIP!" (disclaimer: not actually true. just used as an example)

what do you want to accomplish this week?

(also, you may have noticed the new look on my page. i'm still not sure how i like it, but i don't really have time to finish it yet! feel free to tell me what you think....especially about the read-ability!)

also, check out this awesome site for more motivational pictures!

Mockingjay, Mockingjay

2010-09-06T11:36:00.000-07:00

ah, the long-awaited Mockingjay!

since everyone who liked the first two books is planning to read the third one anyway, this is a review for the people who have already read the book.

disclaimer: contains spoilers. please don't read unless you have already read the series.

it's difficult to do a review on just the one book without taking at least a cursory look at the rest of the series...so i'll just mention the others briefly:

Hunger Games: this book was beyond brilliant. it was one of those rare books that is nearly perfect in every way and leaves you dying for more. AMAZINGLY AWESOME (5.0)!!

Catching Fire: i have to admit, i was a bit confused by this book. i thought Katniss already did the whole Hunger Games thing...and suddenly she's back in the arena? regardless, this book was top-notch, too. Suzanne Collins is in a league of her own. (4.7)

Mockingjay: it left me stunned. where was the blazing, inspiring heroine? instead of getting out and aiding the rebellion or finding Peta or doing something, she spent the duration of the story dejected and devasted. she was broken, not the heroine i came to know and love and admire. her story felt like it was already over, and it was almost painful to be dragged through close to 400 more pages with her. don't get me wrong--i actually liked the story up until about the last hundred pages. however, i was mostly reading for the other characters--not Katniss. the last 100 pages were the hardest because the characters that had been propelling me through the story started to die off, one by one....

overall, i felt that the series concluded on a very uninspiring note rather than the brilliant and awe-inspiring wave of emotions that i had anticipated. (3.5)

rated T for Teen: Fallen

2010-09-06T11:00:00.000-07:00

i finally read it: Fallen by Lauren Kate.

synopsis from hardcover version:

There's something achingly familiar about Daniel Grigori.

Mysterious and aloof, he captures Luce Price's attention from the moment she sees him on her first day at the Sword & Cross boarding school in sultry Savannah, Georgia. He's the one bright spot in a place where cell phones are forbidden, the other students are all screw-ups, and security cameras watch every move.

Even though Daniel wants nothing to do with Luce--and goes out of his way to make that very clear--she can't let it go. Drawn to him like a moth to a flame, she has to find out what Daniel is so desperate to keep secret . . . even if it kills her.

Dangerously exciting and darkly romantic, Fallen is a page turning thriller and the ultimate love story.

spoiler-free opinion: i think this is one of those books you can judge by the cover; fortunately, i love the gothic-ish cover, and i loved the dark, mysterious story. there were a few aspects of the story that frustrated me, but overall, i thought it was a worthwhile read.

(4.2)

warning: the following review contains spoilers. please skip if you haven't read the book yet.

Luce did frustrate me at times because of her complete obsession with Daniel (who treated her like a pariah at first....why is this sounding strangely familiar??...). however, the story did make a good excuse for her fascination, so i felt i could overlook it.

at the end, i felt the story became slightly melodramatic, and the author didn't explain some critical details (like why the boy Luce kissed at the beginning died, and why all the fallen angels were at Sword and Cross in the first place). explanations seemed to be promised in the sequel, though, so i'll save my complaints until after i've read Torment and can see for myself if the author finally delivers.

needless to say, i'm extremely curious to see how the second book will be!

under construction

2010-09-05T15:24:00.001-07:00

blog is currently under construction. please pardon the mess!

in my mailbox

2010-09-04T17:31:00.000-07:00

(a note to regular viewers: weekly writing goals has been postponed until next week. sorry!)

In My Mailbox is hosted by the Story Siren.

this week's mailbox

+ last week's mailbox (which i didn't do a post for)

= one happy reader.

what's in your mailbox?

rated T for Teen: Nightshade

2010-09-01T10:39:00.001-07:00

i finally came up with a catchy title for my book reviews!!! (hint: look at post title) oh, the things I think of after fifteen long hours of consciousness...

SO. i'm reviewing Nightshade by Andrea Cremer today. (thanks again to Sunday Cafe for the ARC!)

synopsis: (contains mild spoilers...just remember i didn't write it!)

Calla Tor has always known her destiny: After graduating from the Mountain School, she'll be the mate of sexy alpha wolf Ren Laroche and fight with him, side by side, ruling their pack and guarding sacred sites for the Keepers. But when she violates her masters' laws by saving a beautiful human boy out for a hike, Calla begins to question her fate, her existence, and the very essence of the world she has known. By following her heart, she might lose everything— including her own life. Is forbidden love worth the ultimate sacrifice?

my review:

A truly seductive read. Nightshade pulled me in, layer by carefully-crafted layer, until i was completely captivated. I did not want to put this book down!

Now, I will admit that I wouldn't have read Nightshade if I hadn't won it. It sounded too much like Blood and Chocolate, which wasn't my kind of book (for the record, though, I really enjoyed the movie...).

Despite my expectations, Nightshade drew me in from the start. I loved it.

That's not to say it was perfect. Some of the sexual stuff I thought Cremer definitely could have done without, and Nightshade has one of those increasingly-overused, all-the-rage love triangles. However, the good FAR outweighs the annoying.

In fact, I give Nightshade a 4.8 out of 5. DEFINITELY RECOMMEND.

contest announcements in the blogosphere

2010-08-28T07:50:00.000-07:00

if you haven't heard yet, Carol at Carol's Prints and Sara at Babbling Flow are holding two of the most amazing giveaways ever!!! sound familiar? yeah, cuz they just held giveaways earlier this month! talk about incredible selflessness...

head to Carol's giveaway here

head to Sara's giveaway here

don't miss your chance to enter! there are arc's and signed books up for grabs.

weekly goal-setting

2010-08-27T14:25:00.000-07:00

wow. well, i've definitely got some goals, but they aren't writing-related! i'm swamped in homework that i must get done this weekend.

despite that, i did manage to remember my goal (make time for writing once this week), and i did make time. i'm going to stick with this goal so my new WIP doesn't die during this semester!

how about you? hopefully you aren't as busy as me and have more time for writing/reading! how'd you do on your goals this week, and what do you want to accomplish in the upcoming week?

also, i'll be back wednesday (or sometime this week if i get too busy!) with my review of Nightshade!

have a great weekend

what i've been reading

2010-08-25T13:10:00.000-07:00

Eyes Like Stars: Theatre Illuminata, Act I by Lisa Mantchev

All her world's a stage.
Beatrice Shakespeare Smith is not an actress, yet she lives in a theater.
She is not an orphan, but she has no parents.
She knows every part, but has no lines of her own.
Until now.

Welcome to the Théâtre Illuminata, where the characters of every play ever written can be found behind the curtain. They were born to play their parts, and are bound to the Théâtre by The Book—an ancient and magical tome of scripts. Bertie is not one of them, but they are her family—and she is about to lose them all and the only home she has ever known.

(4.6)
i raced through this book, and i didn't want it to end (must read sequel!!). Bertie is determined, unique, uncontrollable, and likable. the rest of the cast was varied and unforgettable--just as they should be--and they fit their parts perfectly. i thought that, at times, the plot was slightly weaker than the characters and prose (both definitely strong points in the story), but the rest of the time, the story thoroughly captivated me. i loved it.

The Cardturner by Louis Sachar

The summer after junior year of high school looks bleak for Alton Richards. His girlfriend has dumped him to hook up with his best friend. He has no money and no job. His parents insist that he drive his great-uncle Lester to his bridge club four times a week and be his cardturner—whatever that means. Alton’s uncle is old, blind, very sick, and very rich.

But Alton’s parents aren’t the only ones trying to worm their way into Lester Trapp’s good graces. They’re in competition with his longtime housekeeper, his alluring young nurse, and the crazy Castaneda family, who seem to have a mysterious influence over him.

Alton soon finds himself intrigued by his uncle, by the game of bridge, and especially by the pretty and shy Toni Castaneda. As the summer goes on, he struggles to figure out what it all means, and ultimately to figure out the meaning of his own life.

Through Alton’s wry observations, Louis Sachar explores the disparity between what you know and what you think you know. With his incomparable flair and inventiveness, he examines the elusive differences between perception and reality—and inspires readers to think and think again.

(4.4)

this story had a slow beginning that nearly ruined it for me. once i got through the non-action, though, i was hooked. this story has a little bit of everything...romance, unrequited dreams, human greed, mystery, a little magic, and, of course, CARDS!!! (i should mention here that i like playing cards...if you absolutely hate cards, this story might not be for you). this is a story that i definitely recommend to YA readers--both adult and teen.

D. N. Angel Vol. 1 by Yukiru Sugisaki

Daisuke Niwa is an ordinary middle school student with an extradinary genetic "condition". Whenever he starts longing for the girl of his dreams, he transforms into the legendary Phantom Thief, Dark! The only way to lift the curse? To have his love returned, of course. But how can Daisuke win the heart of a girl he can't even romance?

i love the creativity and humor in manga...and the artwork, of course! D. N. Angel is one of my favorites with its fantasy and romance. Vol. 1 is an excellent start to the series, which, like nearly all manga, improves as the reader learns more about the characters and the plot begins to unfold (therefore, the first few chapters are typically the least captivating in the entire series). if you like manga, i highly recommend D. N. Angel.

in my mailbox

2010-08-21T15:33:00.000-07:00

(in my mailbox is hosted by the Story Siren)

i have a problem. i wasn't planning to buy anymore books for a while, and guess what i did this week. yep, you guessed it, buy more books! although, in my defense, goHastings.com was having a great sale so what else could i do?

don't answer that....

anyway, here's what i've got in my mailbox so far, and i should have the rest by next weekend!

Journey of Hope: Two Novels by Lurlene McDaniel, The Silver Kiss by Annette Curtis Klause, Seventeenth Summer by Maureen Daly, and Obernewtyn and The Farseekers by Isobelle Carmody.

I hope these are good! they are all the result of impulsive book shopping...

now that you've seen my new books, what's in YOUR mailbox?

goal-setting friday

2010-08-20T14:32:00.000-07:00

so, clearly "write every day" is not my strong suit. i have now failed (very dismally!) at this goal twice! since i've just started school again (my first semester at ASU), maybe this isn't the best goal to try to tackle again.... instead, my goal will be to make time for writing at least once this week. that sounds do-able!

your turn! how'd you do on your last goal? what's the goal for this week? cultivate a more positive attitude? read five books out of that TBR pile? (because we all know that reading HELPS with our own writing, of course!!) write a chapter of your WIP? two chapters? 4k works???

come on, help me out! what's your goal??

(don't forget to check out S. A. Larsen's Impetus Room for more goal-setting fun!)

TAHEREH IS HOSTING A CONTEST

2010-08-19T14:12:00.000-07:00

the title is self-explanatory. if you haven't already, hurryhurryhurry to check out Tahereh's contest and enter to win $100 for books!!!! ends SUNDAY. THIS SUNDAY.

don't miss out!

what i've been reading

2010-08-18T09:21:00.000-07:00

The Strangely Beautiful Tale of Miss Percy Parker by Leanna Renee Hieber

What fortune awaited sweet, timid Percy Parker at Athens Academy? Considering how few of Queen Victoria’s Londoners knew of it, the great Romanesque fortress was dreadfully imposing, and little could Percy guess what lay inside. She had never met the powerful and mysterious Professor Alexi Rychman, knew nothing of the growing shadow, the Ripper and other supernatural terrors against which his coterie stood guard. She knew simply that she was different, haunted, with her snow-white hair, pearlescent skin and uncanny gifts. But this arched stone doorway offered a portal to a new life, an education far from the convent—and an invitation to an intimate yet dangerous dance at the threshold of life and death…

this book was actually pretty good (4.0). it compelled me to keep reading, i liked the characterization, and the plot was interesting. however, i do feel that the author relied too much on what i would call Victorian reactions and passionate responses to make the action more dramatic and exciting. bottom line: i'd say it's definitely worth reading if you like Victorian fantasy.

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

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

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

Instead, it turns out to be her last.

Then she gets a second chance.

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

i devoured this book. it was amazing, and i give it a 4.7 (excellent!). i loved the characterization, development, and plot. Lauren Oliver has mastered dialogue and tension...this book is well worth reading at least once. i wouldn't hesitate to buy anything from Lauren Oliver after reading Before I Fall.

Dark Secrets Vol. 2 by Elizabeth Chandler

Vol 2 is comprised of two murder mysteries--with paranormal twists. i liked the first story, but i probably wouldn't read it again (3.5). i really enjoyed the second story, though (give it a 4.0) because i identified with the main character a lot more. as far as mysteries go, this is no Sherlock Holmes novel, but it is entertaining. once again, i'd recommend it if you like the genre.

*rating system: (probably won't review anything lower than a 3.0), 3.0--okay, 3.5--good, not sorry i read it, 4.0--recommended, 5.0--absolute brilliance

Versatile Blogger Award

2010-08-17T10:42:00.001-07:00

such an official title!

the awesome S. A. Larsen gave me the Versatile Blogger Award a while back, and it's time for me to pass it along! official rules:

Thank and link back to the person who gave you this award. (ThankyouSALarsenyou'rethebest!!!REALLY!!!)
Share 7 things about yourself.
Pass the award along to 15 bloggers who you have recently discovered and who you think are fantastic for whatever reason! (I tried NOT to give the award to anyone who already had it...which means I didn't see it posted anywhere on your blog. Also, 15 is certainly not required. I didn't quite do fifteen, and you shouldn't feel obligated to, either.)
Contact the bloggers you've picked and let them know about the award.

seven things about myself:

1. I'm a college student at ASU.
2. I'm minoring in writing.
3. I have a beautiful Golden Retriever puppy.
4. I love to rollerblade/ice skate.
5. I'm really shy.
6. I love Smallville.
7. I think Ancestry.com is amazing. (yeah, i'm weird...)

bloggers i'm passing the award on to:

Non-Sequitur Ramblings

Blue Lipstick Samurai

Long Distance Drive

Write About Now

Substitute Teacher’s Saga

Write-Brained

Heather’s Odyssey

Sandy Shin

Citraberry Book Reviews

Babbling Flow

My Kozy Korner

just grab the award from my sidebar and start passing it along! thanks!!

in my mailbox

2010-08-14T20:05:00.000-07:00

in my mailbox, hosted by the Story Siren!

Shadow Kiss
Eyes Like Stars
Vampire Diaries Vol. 1
Nightshade (won)
Nobody's Princess
Confessions of a Triple Shot Betty

i'm looking forward to reading them! what's in your mailbox??

2010-08-13T13:20:00.000-07:00

goal-setting friday

2010-08-13T10:14:00.000-07:00

(don't forget to check out S. A. Larsen's Impetus Room for even more weekly goal-setting fun!)

it's friday again! congrats on making it through the work week! (well, almost...)

i was very excited by how many people set goals last week--even if you didn't complete them, setting goals gives you something concrete to work on. i find that they help me stay on task more than anything else.

last week's goal: check. completed (not that i set a very hard one!)

this week's goal: write every day. it's my last week before school starts, and i really want to make the most of it. if i can just get myself to sit down at the computer and start writing, i always get something done!

your turn! how'd you do last week, and what do you want to accomplish this week? finish some of those TBR books? put in a good, solid word count on your WIP? start revising? querying? really, whatever you want to do is fine! just set that goal and start working towards it.

what i've been reading

2010-08-12T13:45:00.000-07:00

this really should have been yesterday's post, but i had to announce my contest winners yesterday! so, today will be what i've been reading THURSDAY.

a couple great books i picked up lately were:

The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson

my rating: 4.5 stars

this is a great read for young adults (emphasis on adult, though. the content is kind of mature.) there are already some fantastic reviews for this book:
check out Jandy's site or Tahereh's review for more info!

The Forest of Hands and Teeth/The Dead-Tossed Waves by Carrie Ryan

amazing. Carrie Ryan is just a genius with words. i really enjoyed The Forest of Hands and Teeth (i'd give it a 4) but The Dead-Tossed Waves was even BETTER. it's definitely a 4.5. i'm actually really surprised i liked these books because i am VERY anti-horror/anythingscaryorcreepy. they are just so good.

US Paperback

THE FOREST OF HANDS AND TEETH

A New York Times Best Seller

A Junior Library Guild selection

An ALA Best Books for Young Adults selection

Named to the 2010 New York Public Library Stuff for the Teen Age List

A Borders Original Voices finalist

#4 on the IndieBound Kids' Indie Next List for Spring 2009

"...elegantly written from title to last line."
—Scott Westerfeld (read Scott's Amazon.com exclusive review here)

** visit Carrie Ryan here for more reviews/nomination info

In Mary's world, there are simple truths. The Sisterhood always knows best. The Guardians will protect and serve. The Unconsecrated will never relent. And you must always mind the fence that surrounds the village. The fence that protects the village from the Forest of Hands and Teeth. But slowly, Mary's truths are failing her. She's learning things she never wanted to know about the Sisterhood and its secrets, and the Guardians and their power. And, when the fence is breached and her world is thrown into chaos, about the Unconsecrated and their relentlessness.

13 to Life by Shannon Delany

my rating: 4.

i thought this was an excellent debut. the main reason it doesn't get higher than a four is that it really doesn't have a satisfactory conclusion--the reader is really left waiting for the next book.

blurb (courtesy of pureimaginationblog.com):

Something strange is stalking the small town of Junction…

When junior Jess Gillmansen gets called out of class by Guidance, she can only presume it’s for one of two reasons. Either they’ve finally figured out who wrote the scathing anti-jock editorial in the school newspaper or they’re hosting yet another intervention for her about her mom. Although far from expecting it, she’s relieved to discover Guidance just wants her to show a new student around—but he comes with issues of his own including a police escort.

The newest member of Junction High, Pietr Rusakova has secrets to hide--secrets that will bring big trouble to the small town of Junction—secrets including dramatic changes he’s undergoing that will surely end his life early.

"A unique tale with a bright heroine and dark secrets.”
- New York Times Bestselling YA author Maria V. Snyder

"You'll devour 13 to Life in greedy, eager gulps. Pitch-perfect and deliciously paced, this book dishes up your next fiction addiction. Shannon is a rising star!"
--Ann Aguirre, national bestselling author of Grimspace and Doubleblind

"A fun, gothic romance of suspense, secrets and the dangerous truth behind the new kid in town."
-Lucienne Diver, author of Vamped and Revamped

i would definitely recommend all these books (seriously, 4's and 4.5's are about as high as i'll give. only my all-time favs get a 5). if you're looking for some good reads, check these out!

the winners!

2010-08-11T08:41:00.000-07:00

and the winner of the first prize pack is...

Cass!!

congrats, Cass!!!

the winner of the second prize pack is:

S.M. Schmidt!!

congrats, SM Schmidt!

i will email both winners asap. congrats again, and thank you to everyone who participated!

a welcome and the last day of my contest

2010-08-10T10:18:00.000-07:00

this weekend, i was in Yosemite to get my new puppy! (long story why).

in addition to pictures of some beautiful scenery, i brought back a new member of my family.

rule number one: no laying on the couch. already repealed.

rule number two: no going upstairs. temporarily on hold.

rule number three: no people food. still in effect...most of the time. it's good to know we can hold to something!

also, in blog-related news, this is the last day to enter my giveaway. be sure to enter if you haven't already!

here are a couple pictures from my trip, too:

i hope you all had weekends as wonderful as mine!

goal-setting friday

2010-08-06T09:58:00.000-07:00

hey everybody! sorry i missed this post last week--but nothing interesting to report. unless keeping a journal counts, i failed dismally on my write-every-day goal, lol. oh well! vacation was just too demanding!

i just finished the small project i was working on, so my new goal is just to figure out what i want to work on now (pick between several different projects...) and work on that. simple, right?

okay, YOUR TURN! what is one thing (writing or reading-related) that you want to accomplish by next friday? it could be a word-count, a daily goal, a page-number goal, a number of books read/reviewed goal, anything! the whole purpose of a goal is by the end of the week, you can look back and say, "yeah, i accomplished that this week." it's nice to know, and it gives you a clear purpose--it doesn't even matter if you make your goal or not! (although i think writers are generally over-achievers, so we're going to try, right?)

what's YOUR goal?

don't forget to check out S. A. Larsen's Weekly Check-In Challenge, also starting today! head over to the Impetus Room if you haven't already. and have a wonderful writer-y weekend!

an impromptu post

2010-08-05T16:01:00.000-07:00

so this is one of those impromptu posts i mentioned yesterday...

Theresa Milton at Substitute Teacher's Saga brought up a really important topic over on her blog today.

in her words:

"All this talk about writers having a platform, but there are more important uses for platforms than promoting ourselves."

"When someone has a rare disease, big pharmaceutical companies don’t target finding cures or even treatments for them. The NIH doesn’t fund grant to target cancers that affect a small population. If you were a parent and your child had a rare disease, how would you feel?"

"But my husband’s friend refuses to be helpless. He founded: http://cureasps.org/. And he uses the money he’s raised to fund two scientists at Dana Farber."

and what is Theresa doing about this? well, holding a contest, naturally. if you're interested (and really, why wouldn't you be?) please stop by her blog for more info. (link is at the top of the article). even if donating isn't something you are able to do or feel comfortable doing, you can always help spread the word. what better cause is there?

you can make a difference.

it'll only take a few minutes of your time.

i'm back!!

2010-08-04T09:55:00.000-07:00

hey everybody! okay, i am officially back from vacation now (and in one piece, no serious injuries!), and i have a few announcements:

first off, welcome and thank you to all my old and new followers! you guys are awesome. seriously. you make blogging worthwhile and meaningful.

second, don't forget to check out my big end-of-summer giveaway if you haven't already! you could win a pre-ordered copy of Mockingjay, Paranormalcy, Matched, Beautiful Darkness OR another fantastic book as well as one of two awesome box sets!

also, i've finally decided on my blogging schedule for the fall. this is going to be a very busy semester for me--it's my first full-time college semester at a university, and i'm also getting a PUPPY!! (yes i am crazy, clearly college just wasn't enough work).

anyway, here's the plan: i will have a "what i've been reading" post on wednesdays, a goal-setting post on fridays (which i will do in conjunction with NaNoWriMo when November rolls around), and an "in my mailbox" post over the weekend if i get any new books!

of course, i'll probably still throw in the odd post if i have something i really want to blog about.

sound good??

lastly, if your appetite for contests has still not been satisfied after entering my giveaway (clickclickclick if you haven't already), check out my sidebar for some more great links!

SO, what happened to YOU while i was away?? any exciting news?

in my mailbox!

2010-08-01T15:50:00.000-07:00

(in my mailbox is brought to you by the story siren.)

i am drowning in books! and here are the new arrivals (yikes...but at the same time, YAY!)

i think i read too much.

i've got Fallen, The Cardturner, Before I Fall, and The Book Thief. combined with all my past mailbox books and manga, this SHOULD keep me busy for quite a while.

so. what's in YOUR mailbox? post links and join in the fun!

hello in the blogoshpere!

2010-07-30T21:55:00.000-07:00

hey to my old and new followers! i hope you're enjoying my contest : )
(click here to enter if you haven't already...or just scroll down the page a little ways).

just a a quick link if you're interested in winning a few more books: check out the 2011 Releases Giveaway here to possibly win some awesome copies of pre-ordered books!

hope you're all doing well--i miss hanging around the blogosphere. i'll be back full-time in next week.

ANNOUNCING MY BIGGEST CONTEST EVER!!!

2010-07-27T14:40:00.000-07:00

it's finally here: my afore-mentioned end-of-summer book giveaway!!!

can you tell i'm excited? okay, now for the important stuff.

the giveaway is open until August 10th.

here are the prizes:

PACKAGE ONE

1. A pre-ordered copy of one eligible book (see list below)

2. A box set of Shannon Hale's Goose Girl series

3. A surprise

PACKAGE TWO

1. A pre-ordered copy of one eligible book

2. A box set of Cinda Williams Chima's The Heir Chronicles

*eligible books for pre-order:

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Beautiful Darkness by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl

Radiance by Alison Noel

Paranormalcy by Kiersten White

Matched by Ally Condie

The Duff by Kody Keplinger

SO WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR??? WHY HAVEN'T YOU ENTERED YET??

oh yeah. the rules...

Okay. so you must be a follower. you must live in the US (sorry, i have no idea how to ship internationally!). you must mention this contest SOMEWHERE at least once.

here's the form to enter! good luck!!!

*under where it asks where you mentioned the contest, it says to pick the choice worth the most points as your answer. sorry that you can't read it!

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in my mailbox

2010-07-25T10:06:00.000-07:00

(in my mailbox is hosted by The Story Siren. check out this week here.

hey! just a quick look at some books (mostly manga) i picked up while on vacation....

i've got The Secret Year, DN Angel Vol. 1, Millenium Snow Vols. 1 & 2, Ouran High School Host Club Vol. 1, and Black Cat Vol. 1 (and, not in the picture is Wanted, also a manga)

i'd love to look at your mailboxes if i get the chance (i'm on vacation right now)! happy reading!

weekly writing goal wednesday comes to an end

2010-07-20T14:29:00.000-07:00

but don't be sad--i'll be back every friday with links to S.A. Larsen's weekly Check-In Challenge!

and on that note, fantasy friday is now switching to wednesday. (still working on a catchy title...)

so. today is the last wednesday for goal-setting (i made my goal for the week). my new deadline is friday, nine days from today.

ALSO, one last little minor announcement...

i'm going to be gone on vacation for 10 days starting tomorrow! YAY!!!!!

the only things is, i may get so caught up hanging out with my MULTITUDES of cousins that i won't have much time to blog, so i might be kind of absent...

just a heads up.

with this in mind, my goal is to WRITE every day, and to READ as many of my vacation books (books i saved for this trip) as possible! hopefully all of them!!

so, i'll visit as often as i can, and try to stop by all your blogs. meanwhile, don't forget to set YOUR weekly goal, too!

and i'll be announcing a CONTEST very, very soon, so don't forget to stop by!

(this will be me in a couple of days!!!)

ever get stuck on names for places in your story?

2010-07-19T13:15:00.000-07:00

well, i was having this problem last night (i'm editing a chapter book for my younger cousin's birthday and i needed cool but not-too-weird names).

then i found this great site: pseudo-Elizabethan place names. it's fun just to see all the stuff it comes up with. check it out here!

ok. yes. i am a total forest fanatic. it's part of why i love fantasy so much. but seriously, aren't these pictures amazing?

mailbox??

2010-07-17T22:42:00.000-07:00

(In My Mailbox is hosted by the Story Siren)

my mailbox? well, actually, i have some books I've been saving up for a while now...because i'm going on vacation, and what better activity than reading when you want to have fun??

(that was a rhetorical question)

now a close-up...

i've got Changeless by Gail Carriger, The Strangely Beautiful Tale of Miss Percy Parker by Leanna Hieber, Midnighters by Scott Westerfeild, The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks, Frostbite by Richelle Mead, 13 to Life by Shannon Delany, Dark Secrets Vol. 2 by Elizabeth Chandler

i'd love to see your mailboxes, too! isn't reading great???

(that was a rhetorical question, too) <3

fantasy friday

2010-07-14T15:24:00.000-07:00

second-to-last fantasy friday! wow.

well, i have a great feature for today's post:

Crown Duel by Sherwood Smith

(contains very mild spoilers--all from the first two chapters of the book)
Meliara Astiar is a countess in the kingdom of Remalna, but she has none of the prestige or wealth that one might expect. Instead, her family's land's are falling into disrepair, taxed to their limit by the greedy King Galdran. When Meliara and her brother receive word that the abominable king intends to break The Covenant (between the Hill Folk and the Remalnans) for his own gain, they reach their breaking point. They declare war on the king--despite being impossibly outnumbered and outmatched.

I LOVE THIS BOOK. it's one that i am always happy to pick up and re-read. it never gets old.

first of all, Meliara is not whiny or helpless--despite being smaller and weaker than ALL of her opponents, she never gives in because she believes in what she is fighting for.

also, i love the setting--the forest in the mountains where Meliara lives, a kingdom with a court and intrigue, the magical conveniences for everyday life, all of it. this is pretty much my ideal fantasy setting.

I CAN'T TELL YOU ABOUT THE OTHER THINGS I LOVE. too many spoilers. but i will says this:

i laughed while reading this book. i held my breath, i sighed, i cringed, i lived vicariously, i fell in love. it inspired real emotions and reactions--and at the end, it left me wanting more.

i know some people complained that this book was "predictable", and maybe it was. but then again, didn't we all know that Harry Potter was going to survive the first six books so he would make it to the seventh (or wait, did i just give that away?!?). sometimes predictability doesn't hurt--it doesn't even matter. the story is enjoyable anyway.

i thought that was the case here.

anyway, i want to do something a little different. i want to invite YOU to share your favorite (or one of them, anyway) fantasy read! what book do you read again and again and again
and again....?

weekly wednesday writing goals

2010-07-14T13:51:00.000-07:00

ah...what a nice week. i loved my goal of slowing down and enjoying what i was reading and writing more--and i got tons done at the same time!!! (i also signed up for a couple reading challenges: 100 books in 2010 and the YA Reading Challenge--the buttons are over on my sidebar if you're interested!)

this week, my goal will be a little more challenging, but still not word-count oriented. i plan to try to finish the writing project i'm working on and start revisions on it. i actually have a REAL deadline to make, so i'd better work hard on my goal this week!

how about you? what's your goal this wednesday? have you perhaps stopped by S.A. Larsen's Check-In Challenge? are you setting friday goals instead of wednesday goals?

teaser tuesday

2010-07-13T11:26:00.000-07:00

okay, today's topic is courtesy of Teens Read and Write, who in turn got it from MizB at Should Be Reading. (wow, that sounds confusing even to me, and i wrote it...)

here's how it works:

take the book you're reading and flip it open to any page--just a random one. pick a few sentences (no spoilers!) and make sure you tell the name of the author and book!

easy, huh? if you want to participate, you can post a link over at Teens Read and Write!

so, here's my teaser from The Dead-Tossed Waves by Carrie Ryan:

I rub my palms against my legs, my heart a thrum in my chest.
There are a thousand reasons why I don't want to go with them into the ruins, not least of which is that it's forbidden.
But there's one reason I do want to take the risk.

your turn!

*also, an announcement. if you haven't entered already, there's only two days left to try to win 5 incredible ARC's: Paranormal, Halo, Pegasus, Nightshade, and The Eternal Ones. head over to The Undercover Book Lover now to enter!

thoughts on my mailbox books so far...

2010-07-12T12:49:00.000-07:00

so, i've been reading the books i mentioned in the IN MY MAILBOX post...

Wings by Aprilynne Pike

the verdict? very original. very interesting. it wasn't grip-the-edge-of-your-seat omg-what's-going-to-happen-next thrilling, but on the other hand, i read it in less than a day. i really enjoyed reading it, and i'd recommend it to YA fantasy lovers.

The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan

WOW. just...wow. i never would have pictured myself reading a zombie book of all things, but i can make an exception for Ryan. she has the most original, captivating style of writing--every word feels specially chosen and not a single sentence is wasted. i could never even BEGIN to guess what was going to happen next. all i can say is, the sequel should be interesting!

Dengeki Daisy by Kyousuke Motomi

okay, so what i really spent most of my weekend reading was Dengeki Daisy. in case you can't tell, it's a manga (Japanese comic). they took me a little while to get used to reading (you read right to left, and i've never really read comics before), but they are totally worth it. i loved Dengeki Daisy. (click on the picture for a link to B&N if your curious and want more info)

all in all, a great weekend of reading! i'm currently on Nicholas Sparks' The Lucky One, which I'm enjoying, as well as another manga, Ouran High School Host Club (probably the funniest thing i will ever read in my life).

what did YOU spend your weekend doing/reading??

this week's mailbox...

2010-07-10T22:07:00.000-07:00

(a little late, i've already read some of the books!)

this post is based on The Story Siren's weekly mailbox post.

okay, so here's what i've got:

Wings by Aprilynne Pike, Dengeki Daisy by Kyousuke Motomi, The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks, The Forest of Hands and Teeth and The Dead-Tossed Waves by Carrie Ryan

looking forward to reading/have enjoyed reading them all!

what's in your mailbox??

fantasy friday!

2010-07-09T14:55:00.001-07:00

wow, so i'm really feeling the pressure to come up with good reads for my weekly review since some of you actually take my advice! (yikes!)

but i have a book here that i feel 100% confident endorsing.

Howl's Moving Castle by Dianna Wynne Jones.

"In the land of Ingary, where such things as seven-league boots and cloaks of invisibility really exist, it is quite a misfortune to be born the eldest of three." Which is exactly what Sophie Hatter is. She grows up knowing that no matter how hard she tries, fate will always conspire against her. She decides to accept her misfortune and takes up work in her father's hat shop--until one day, the Witch of the Waste pays Sophie a visit and sets off Sophie's quirky and amusing adventure. An adventure that leads her to the strange, 'moving' castle of Wizard Howl--a man rumored to be a menace to every young girl in the land of Ingary.

there. i think that was spoiler-free!

i honestly can't think of anything i don't like about this book--but there are plenty of things i adore! i love the quaint atmosphere of Ingary, the humor, the characters--and Sophie's rather unique plight (which i won't mention and spoil for you). ALA Booklist calls Howl's Moving Castle "witty" and "rollicking", and Publishers Weekly sums it up as "a wonderful blend of humor, magic, and romance".

these description are accurate--even good--but they just can't capture the way the story never fails to make me laugh or the way the characters linger in my mind long after i set the book down. this was one of those rare books that i devoured and that i am always looking for in the pages of every other novel.

i even own two copies of it (because my first one is literally falling apart from over-use). i never buy two copies of one book--partly because i am so careful with my precious novels that i don't damage them in the first place! if that isn't evidence of a great book, i don't know what is.

yeah, i saw it...

2010-07-08T12:49:00.000-07:00

i saw Eclipse yesterday.

the verdict? well, i need to explain some of my thoughts in getting there…

i think i’ve hit upon that elusive element that makes one story stand out from the rest (wait for it…): “engagement”.

(no, not with a ring…)

engagement. when the story comes together, when we really like/care about/relate to the characters, when the plot really pulls at our imagination until we can’t let it go, when we’re picturing the setting every time we close our eyes, when we love the story so much that we are a PART of it in our minds—that’s engagement.

how does this relate to Eclipse? well, i just didn’t have that “engagement” with the first two movies. the biggest reason (dare I say it??) was that Stewart and Pattinson just didn’t feel believable in their roles.

they were much, much better in this movie. everything was better, and for the first time, i started feeling some of that engagement.

FINALLY.

now, i still wouldn’t recommend this movie to anyone who isn’t a Twilight fan. if you haven’t read/don’t care for the books, you probably won’t like the movies.
BUT, if you did like the books, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed by this movie.

it was pretty good.

i may even end up seeing it again (for complicated reasons...don’t ask), and if so, i’ll see how my first impression holds up under a second viewing….

wednesday weekly writing goals

2010-07-07T20:02:00.000-07:00

DESPITE some amazingly lucky bits of what some might call "magic", my sister and her boyfriend just totally creamed me at cards. said bits of magic? i pointed at BF and said "you will give me the card i need!", and, right in the middle of my mom's speech about how "that only works in books" (cue my evil laughter), he put down the exact card i wanted. it was sweet.

then, when i was desperately losing, i said, "i am going to draw a wild!" and i did.

but it was not enough to win. :(

fortunately, weekly goals are not luck. you can control them.

and on that note, i made my goal this week!! YAY!!

my goal for the upcoming week:

well, i'm going to take SA Larsen's suggestion and just focus on cultivating a more positive attitude towards writing (no more ah! i have to write 1000 words today to stay on goal! somebody help me...) AND i want to make sure i'm taking time to really enjoy the books i'm reading, not just rush through them. sometimes i feel like i've just gulped down a novel without even tasting it--that's not the way to read!!

after all, if i'm not taking time to enjoy reading and writing and i'm getting burned out, something is not right. i'm happy with what the goals have helped me accomplish--but i don't want to push myself too far. this week will be about re-focusing.

SO! as always, i encourage you to participate! OR, you can join SA Larsen's Check-In Challenge for some alternative writing accountability! (as i mentioned in Tuesday's post, in two weeks i will switch over to the Check-In's schedule.)

either way, keep writing and setting goals and, most important, HAVING FUN!!! because that's what this is all about. at least, when it isn't about pushing yourself ; )

don't know if you've heard...

2010-07-07T13:06:00.000-07:00

just a quick announcement this afternoon before my official post:

Barnes and Nobles has been having a Summer Warehouse Clearance Sale (free shipping to all members on their orders, too!).

(personally, the two books i was most excited about were Sarah Dessen's novels, Lock and Key ($3.58) and This Lullaby ($1.99).)

copies are limited, however, so hurry over to browse through the selection before they're all gone! (Click on the picture below to head over to the site)

enjoy!

i'm back!

2010-07-06T10:07:00.000-07:00

not that i really went anywhere...i was just VERY busy reading yesterday (hey, it was still technically a holiday!!)

FIRST, a shout-out to my new followers!! thank you, everybody, for following. i'm going to be discussing a couple of changes on my blog, so if you want to leave any feedback, please feel free!

SO, i'm considering a couple of changes here. first, i have started participating in The U Name It Check-In Challenge (see gadget on sidebar for link!!). since the check-in performs the same function as my wednesday weekly writing goals (but it takes place every friday), i'm thinking i will line up my weekly challenges with the Challege (which you should totally check-out if you haven't already!!).

here's my plan:

for the next two weeks, my blog will continue it's regular posts (weekly writing goal wednesday and fantasy friday). then, i will skip weekly writing wednesday on the 21st.

after the 21st, i will participate in SA Larsen's check-in challenge every friday, which means...no fantasy friday : (

therefore, i'm thinking i will still do book reviews on tuesday or wednesday. i'm planning on not limiting my reviews to fantasy this time, though--i'm thinking general YA fiction. although, i will probably still mostly review fantasy : )

so, what are your thoughts? do you have suggestions/angry-complaints/feedback? possibly a new catchy title for my regular Tuesday or Wednesday YA review post?

Independence Weekend Announcements!! (that have absolutely nothing to do with 4th of July...)

2010-07-02T13:31:00.000-07:00

hey, just a couple announcements if you have some time this weekend to enter a couple blog contests!

first up, Erica Mitchel-Spickard's great contest/giveaway on her blog, Chapter by Chapter! there are lots of ways to get points and gain entries, and she's got an awesome prize package, so be sure to stop by before friday, July 9th!!

also, Bree Despain, author of The Dark Divine, is hosting a phenomenally mind-blowing giveaway over on her blog (also known as Bree's Book-Bag Blowout)!! i can't even begin to describe its awesomeness (plus i think my brain short-circuited) so you should head over there yourself to check it out! (ends July 14th)

if you're eager for even more amazing blogger generosity, check out my contest/giveaway sidebar on the right for more links.

hope you have a fun-tastic weekend!

an ode to my writing area (topic courtesy of the Rejectionist)

2010-07-02T11:27:00.000-07:00

the Rejectionist has invited members of the blogosphere (pretty much all them, this isn't an exclusive invitation) to join her in writing an ode to writing areas.

instead of writing an ode, I thought I'd let my writing area speak for itself through some pictures...

yes. my writing desk in is my closet. i think its kind of cool that way (although not anywhere as cool as Tahereh's writing space!!) : ) the last picture is of some of my anime-themed scribblings and emails from famous authors via NaNoWriMo and various motivational quotes.

(needless to say, my normal fantasy friday has been postponed until next week. meanwhile, join us in writing our odes (or posting photos, like me....).

anyhow, have a fabulous Fourth-of-July weekend! watch fireworks and scare all your neighbors with should-be-illegal-ly loud noise makers!!!

does practice make perfect?

2010-07-01T10:00:00.000-07:00

i've been reading (shocking, i know, who would have thought that i READ) a book called Outliers, by Malcom Gladwell. it makes the interesting proposition that to become truly 'proficient' in any skill, a person must spend roughly 10,000 hours practicing that skill. including novel writing.

BUT, i have to wonder, assuming that 10,000 hours is indeed the magic number, does reading count? what about writing for school classes or writing creative fiction that isn't a novel? how do you really measure the time one puts in to writing?

also, Gladwell completely dismisses the idea of natural talents that can achieve proficiency without putting in the time (10 k hours) practicing. however, i know of at least one famous person who appears to be evidence to the contrary.

what are your thoughts? is practice always necessary to make perfect, or do you think Gladwell is wrong? can other areas of reading and writing count as this 'practice'?

INCONSISTENCIES! and wednesday writing goals, too.

2010-06-29T23:39:00.000-07:00

have you ever started editing a story, only to realize that your prose is peppered with inconsistencies?

this is happening to me a lot today.

example: my dragon is named Gillian or something in chapter 2, and by chapter three, it's Kirrian.

also: said dragon glows in chapter 2--and doesn't glow again afterward.

yet again: character is introduced as having dark skin. later, there is no mention of this....

some of the mistakes are embarrassing. some of them are stupid. some of them are downright funny (i am taking these particular examples with me to the grave.).

am i the only one that this happens to? please say no...

AND, on a completely-side-tracked-barely-related-not-really-relevant-at-all topic, it is wednesday!! which means...weekly writing goals! *gasp!*

deadline for last week's goal: anytime today. aren't i amazingly benevolent? i didn't even state a particular time....
*i will add an update today when i reach last week's goal. i have not yet as of this post's original publication... (BUT I AM NOT WORRIED, NO NOT ONE BIT)

and, my goal for next week: hm...let's say...7.5k words. not specifically fiction, but preferably fiction. that gives me some wiggle room ; )

as always, i encourage you to set your own goal as well! just mention it in the comments section below, and then come back next wednesday to congratulate/commiserate.

*UPDATE: i made my goal!! i even beat it! this week's new goal is a bit tougher--i should have my work cut out for me!!

not really a teaser tuesday...

2010-06-29T10:07:00.000-07:00

i wanted to post something i'd written, but none of my stories are really at the point where i can post teasers for them. SO, i thought i'd post a character sketch i wrote last fall, only instead of inserting it in this post, i'm going to create a link to it over on the side (right under the friends box)--->

i've found character sketches to be very useful when i'm trying to figure out a new character for my story. i imagine a scene that that character might find him/herself in, and then i see how they react.

it's actually really fun--and not quite as hard as it sounds!

what about you? how do you develop YOUR characters?

the giveaway winner! oh, yeah, and an announcement

2010-06-28T00:21:00.000-07:00

two announcements today:

FIRST: the book giveaway winner!!!! (because i know that's why you're really reading this!!!)

chosen in a completely RANDOM drawing (video is BELOW if you want verification), this person gets his/her choice of one fantasy friday feature.

so. without (much) further ado.

the winner of the fantasy book giveaway is: Molly!

CONGRATS, Molly!!! contact me at carrieaxtell@hotmail.com to tell me the book of your choice and the address where you want it mailed!

ALSO, if you did not win, DON'T DESPAIR! i will be hosting another contest from July 25th to August 5th.

here's how the contest will work:

i will choose 2 winners this time (yay!) who will each win 1 package:

PACKAGE ONE

1. A pre-ordered copy of one eligible book (see list below)

2. A box set of Shannon Hale's Goose Girl series

3. A surprise

PACKAGE TWO

1. A pre-ordered copy of one eligible book

2. A box set of Cinda Williams Chima's The Heir Chronicles

*eligible books for pre-order:

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Beautiful Darkness by Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl

Radiance by Alison Noel

Matched by Ally Condie

Linger by Maggie Stiefvater

(also, if there is another book you would like me to consider adding to the pre-order list, feel free to mention it in the comment section below!)

so, once again, the contest will be held in August! requirements to enter will be posted then.

CONGRATS AGAIN TO OUR GIVEAWAY WINNER!!

i know, very sophisticated stuff, right? (my sister says she might write a program to pick the winners for the August contest, though! that would be much cooler!!)

my giveaway is now closed

2010-06-25T21:43:00.000-07:00

thanks to everyone who participated! the winner will be announced monday!

fantasy friday! giveaway closes today!

2010-06-25T13:39:00.000-07:00

the fantasy book giveaway closes in approximately eight hours! so, here is the last eligible choice for the winner!

The Goose Girl by Shannon Hale

obviously, this is a re-telling of the Grimm Brothers' story, the Goose Girl. so, it has some similar plot elements, but only in the most GENERAL ways. Hale has done a remarkable job of taking a familiar fairytale and transforming it into a fresh fantasy. and who doesn't love YA fantasy???

basic plot (if you have not read the Grimm Brothers' story, this contains spoilers): a princess is sent to marry a prince whom she has never met. her lady-in-waiting is not content to let this happen and takes the princess's place. the true princess is forced to tend the king's sheep.

of course, the downside of fairytales is that when we get older, we realize that the characters are rather flat and the plot is often contrived to tell a moral. Hale solves this by giving the characters personalities, adding a little magic, and spicing up the plot. honestly, even though i knew this story well, i couldn't put the book down the first time i read it. at every step, the princess seems to fear for her life, and yet, she still hangs on and refuses to give up. i was rivetted and wondered how in the world the story could ever end well!

i loved this book. although there are two or three additional installments in Hale's series, this one was always my favorite.

SO, anyway! good luck to the giveaway entrants!

just a reminder...

2010-06-24T21:44:00.000-07:00

only 24 hours until the book giveaway closes!

END OF DEADLINE

2010-06-23T17:23:00.000-07:00

so! tonight my mom and sister were having this conversation in the kitchen:

mom relates funny part of book my sister lent to her.

my sister: i don't remember that.

mom: how many book are there in the series? (because, obviously, sister read the first book before all subsequent installments in the series and therefore has forgotten much of the early stuff. mom wants to know if forgetfulness is justified.)

my sister: like, 11.

mom: yikes! who has time to write all of these books?? (because books look like they are about 1000 pages long)

my sister: the author.

mom: thanks. you are a wealth of information.

OKAY, you caught me. YES. i am procrastinating by relating a completely random conversation (also, it was funnier when it happened).
so...you probably want to hear whether i made my goal yet or not.

i...did!!! i wrote at least 7k in various forms of fiction (blog not included) this week. YAY!!!

how about you? did you have a goal? did you make it?? are you ready for another wednesday goal??? : )

this week's wednesday goal (for me): to write 10 pages of a certain project and 5 pages of a different one.

yes. for the moment, i've given up making a specific word count. phew. i'm exhausted. nothing like last-minute dashes for the finish line.

thanks to those of you who participated, and to those of you who cheered me on! see?? doesn't goal setting sound like fun?? aren't you tempted to join in this week???? ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS LEAVE ONE LITTLE COMMENT BELOW.....

I OFFICIALLY DECLARE 24 MORE HOURS UNTIL MY WEDNESDAY DEADLINE

2010-06-22T21:25:00.000-07:00

i will be back in 24 hours, by which time i will MOST CERTAINLY have completely my 7k word goal. UNDOUBTABLY.

see you then. and good luck with your goal, too!!!

do you really need reminding that it's monday? no, didn't think so

2010-06-18T22:00:00.000-07:00

hey! hope you all had weekends as fun as mine! (BOTH father's day and my sister's birthday--loads of fun, right??) i got Ouran High School Host Club for my sister, and we've been watching it and scaring my family with our hysterical laughter...

anyway, a couple of things that happened this weekend...

FIRST, i updated my blog! YOU MAY HAVE NOTICED. IT'S ABOUT AS SUBLTLE AS THIS SENTENCE. definitely take the poll to the right ---> and let me know what you think : )

ALSO, i read this incredibly helpful article by C (Cynthia) J Omololu about how to write a book. (SO many thanks to Kirsten for the link!!) unless you are a die-hard panster, this post probably equates to the holy grail of writing. it has saved me SO MUCH time and helped me get my story in order....Cynthia, i can't even being to tell you how grateful i am.

FINALLY, i have been working towards my wednesday goal! and, um, yes, i'll leave it at that! i still have two days to get that 7k in!! (and i never specified that they would be on the same project!! yes, i am cheating)

SO. happy monday. unless you would rather forget that today is monday, in which case i will stop reminding you.

HEARTS

Fantasy Friday

2010-06-18T11:21:00.000-07:00

this week's fantasy friday feature: Uglies by Scott Westerfield

upfront, i'll admit that this book isn't exactly fantasy--it's more like YA science fiction. but it's still definitely worth reading!

Here's a little blurb from Westerfield's site:

Uglies is the first book of the trilogy. The second book is Pretties and the third is Specials. It's about a world in which everyone has an operation when they turn sixteen, making them supermodel beautiful. Big eyes, full lips, no one fat or skinny. This seems like a good thing, but it's not. Especially if you're one of the uglies, a bunch of radical teens who've decided they want to keep their own faces. (How anti-social of them.)

that's right--a world in which it's a crime to be ugly after you turn 16. most uglies can't wait for the operation, for a chance to be part of the pretties' exciting world. however, several uglies have decided that they don't want the operation or the much-envied pretty party life.

then, there's Tally Youngblood, an ugly who is almost old enough for the operation and who wants nothing but to finally be pretty. her taste for mischief, though, gets her in trouble with Special Circumstances. they inform her that she has a choice: remain ugly forever or try to retrieve the runaways and regain her chance to become pretty.

what's an ugly to do?

one piece of advice: don't read Amazon's summary unless you want to read spoilers. it gives a lot away.

so are you intrigued? don't forget, if you enter my contest, you could win a copy of Uglies or one of my other fantasy friday features!!

have a wonderful weekend!

weekly writing goal

2010-06-16T13:10:00.000-07:00

this summer was supposed to be for writing. and i must admit that, shamefully, i have done very little of it.

(bad Kari)

BUT! now I HAVE A PLAN *maniacal laughter*

it's called weekly writing goal wednesday! and YOU can do it, too!!!!

what to do: each week set a goal to be completed by next wednesday*

my goal: write 7k words by next wednesday (1000 a day--that's do-able...i hope!)

*note: it doesn't count if you don't tell anyone about your goal!! i'm just sayin'...

don't be afraid of failure! jump in and set goals!!! um, i feel like i should quote someone motivational here, bit i have no idea who!!!! so, uh, GO!!!!

also! i have an announcement: TESSA GRATTON CASTS MAD SPELLS. (and she writes books, too!) Visit her at tessagratton.com.

(this is my cartoon entry for her fantabulous contest. i drew one but (ah!) i do not own a scanner. so i did one in microsoft paint!)

an extremelyshortbriefurgent announcement!

2010-06-15T17:53:00.000-07:00

quick announcement!

Renae Mercado from The Siren's Song is holding a contest/giveaway! in her words...

"one lucky reader gets it all, the ARC of Immortal Beloved, The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner and the first installment of Pretty Little Liars!"

so head on over to her blog and enter for a chance to win these great books! hurry--entry deadline is this Friday!

also, the blog Books Complete Me is hosting a phenomenal giveaway! be sure to stop by and check it out as well!

*note: can't get enough books? don't forget to enter my book giveaway for a chance to win some great fantasy novels!

chapter titles

2010-06-14T14:54:00.001-07:00

quick question today: does anyone actually read chapter titles?

is it worth puting in the extra effort for a clever chapter name? because (confession time) most of the time i don't even read chapter titles. i skim right past them because i'm so caught up in the story.

am i the only one who does this? or do you think that perhaps chapter titles are worth the extra effort on the writer's part?? that they do, indeed, add a little more to the story and the experience?

i'm very curious about this.

3(3) things you never knew about me

2010-06-11T13:41:00.000-07:00

Kirsten (also known as Kirsty and Kiki, i just learned) from A Romantic Enters the World just tagged me! so now i have to (ie, get to) tell you random things about me in wonderful clusters of three! (at least, i think they get to be random...i might be breaking the rules. shhh... )

three colors i love
lilac, yellow, brown

three hobbies i do/have done: figure skating, horseback riding, hiking

three movies i love: The Notebook, The Lord of the Rings, Pride and Prejudice

three authors i love: Sarah Dessen, Dianna Wynne Jones, Stephenie Meyer

three bands i love: my chemical romance, evanescence, nickelback

three things i want to do: land a triple jump, get published, graduate college with a 4.0 (whether i actually ever do any of those things is irrelevant ; ) )

three pets i've had 3 of: beta fish, snakes, and hermit crabs

three famous people i am descended from: (according to ancestry.com) King Alfred the Great, John Alden (from Mayflower), Frank Vittor (a Pittsburg sculptor)

three people i am tagging: Molly (Olleymay), Lisa, and Kate

*also, visit Sandy Shin on her blog to possibly win a free copy of Matched!!!

fantasy friday: soulless

2010-06-11T08:55:00.000-07:00

as i mentioned yesterday on the giveaway announcement, i'm reviewing Soulless by Gail Carriger

this book has a little of everything for everyone--and Carriger ties it all together beautifully. there's dangerous mystery, paranormal creatures, an alternate-England setting, abundant humor, romance...this is the ultimate cross-over-genre book. (fantasy, romance, historical fiction, and mystery!! what's not to love??) And Carriger pulls everything off so well!

In a world full of supernaturals (werewolves and vampires) and humans, Alexia Tarabotti doesn't quite fit in. She is a preternatural, which means she has no soul.

Alexia is doomed to remain on the fringes of good society anyway. She is a spinster with far too much spunk, and, worse, she is half Italian. What proper English family would want her?

But Alexia isn't content to sit back and passively let life slip by. When she is bizarrely attacked by a vampire, she throws herself into solving the case with little regard for ettiquete or safety. Especially when she's around the infuriating, stubborn, and sexy Lord Maccon--the werewolf who is actually in charge of the case.

no doubt about it: Alexia's life is about to get very interesting.

also, in case you haven't already and you missed that pretty pink announcement at the top of the page, be sure to check out my fantasy book giveaway! you never know--you might win your very own copy of Soulless!