Reading Lark

Book Review: The Baker's Daughter

2012-03-06T08:00:00.000-05:00

The Baker's Daughter

By: Sarah McCoy

Published By: Crown Publishing Group

Publication Date: January 2012

Page Count: 304

Buy it at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or IndieBound
Source: Provided by Publisher for TLC Book Tours
Audience: Adult - Historical Fiction, Contemporary Immigration

The Baker's Daughter by Sarah McCoy is one of those books that grabs you and refuses to let you go. There are so many elements that rise to the surface with this one that I found myself having to put the novel down and walk away for a bit to digest it all. I went through a wide range of emotions while reading this one. The Baker's Daughter is a story that spans three generations and focuses not only on the past, but is laced with implications for the present.

The format of the book was refreshing since it took so many forms. There is narrative, letters, emails, and recipes that help tell the story. One main story line surrounds the life Elise Schmidt, a German teen who helps run her family's bakery, as the Third Reich's power holds the land in its iron grasp. I thought I knew so much about the German experience during WWII, but this book forced me to look at things with a different perspective. I had never once stopped to consider what life was like for the German people. So many times I fell into the trap of believing that they all must have accepted Hitler and his agenda - and while this would hold true for some - there were just as many people in Germany who disagreed with Hitler. Voicing opinions in this time period could result in death so many had to hide their opposition. Elsie's story gives voice to those who had to hold their tongues during this time period.

I also really enjoyed it because most often women during this time period were not given equal rights and their experiences were seen to have little value. That becomes abundantly clear based on Elsie's older sister, Hazel's, experiences in the Lebensborn Program. I had never heard of this program before which led me to the internet to do some searching of my own. I have no idea how I missed the existence of this project. I have a degree in History, but my only in depth study of WWII was from the military and political standpoints. Again, I was exposed to the male view of these events and the female voices were left largely silent. Basically, The Lebensborn Program was a way to increase the ranks of the Aryan race. Young German women lived in homes and were basically used for breeding purposes. Once children were born, mothers were no longer integral in their lives beyond feeding. The children were raised and instructed by the SS. Babies who did not appear strong enough were often killed. The inclusion of this in the book was one of the things I found to be fascinating. Watching Hazel as she deals with the effects of this system was truly heart breaking and helped me see history from a different vantage point. There are so many other elements in the 1940's segments of the book that are also well written and intriguing, but this was the one that stuck out the most for me.

The second story line is set in 2007-2008 in El Paso, Texas. Elsie is now an elderly woman running a bakery in the border town and she is being interviewed for a local piece on Christmas traditions by Reba Adams. Reba has her own set of issues - including an engagement ring that she chooses to wear around her neck rather than on her finger. Finding Elise and her daughter, Jane, marks the beginning of a transition for Reba that will help her find out who she really is and what makes her happy. Reba's fiancee, Riki, is also an important fixture within the contemporary segments of the book. He is a Mexican American who watched his parents struggle in Mexico while awaiting their US citizenship. To prove that he is an American, he joins the US Border Patrol and hopes to help others see that there is a right way and a wrong way to get to America. However, after many nights on the job and some heart wrenching moments he starts to realize that not everything is so black and white.

I found it so compelling that McCoy chose to tell these two types of stories along side of one another. I would never have thought that German experiences during WWII would work so well alongside the current debate about immigration to the United States from Mexico. It also really made me stop and think about what life is like for those who are desperately seeking admittance into the land of the free. I appreciate that McCoy is shining a light on something in society that truly needs a solution. I can see the reasoning behind both those that support stricter immigration laws and those who want to cross the border. I don't pretend to have answers to how we can solve this conflict, but I do think generating discussion and thought around the topic is crucial. Discrimination and prejudice are nasty beasts that have plagued humanity since the dawn of time. We can never truly quell their vicious nature until we learn to see those who are different from us as valuable.

In addition, I was also drawn to these characters and their struggles. In particular, I found myself relating to Reba. She is unhappy with her life, but can't quite put her finger on what's missing. She thinks if she can just move to California and just snag her dream job then everything will be fine. Reba even remarks that she'd, "always been melancholic and unsatisfied with nearly everything about herself" (pg. 32). I often have that mentality and I'm trying to break myself out of that way of thinking. I have so many wonderful things in my life, but sometimes I just crave those things that are slightly beyond my grasp. I think that is human nature, but the problem is some of us dwell on what's lacking rather than focus on what is right in front of us. Like Reba, I need to calm down, take a deep breath, and just enjoy living. There is so much heartache and hardship in the world; I need to be thankful that my life is comfortable and I am loved. I am learning to be comfortable in my own skin and I always find it some comforting to find characters who are going through the same struggles. Reba held up a mirror for me to explain my own flaws and think of ways to grow beyond what I see reflected.

The Baker's Daughter is a book with so many delicious layers written in compelling prose. It is a critique of love, the human spirit, and racism. It is also a look into the hearts and minds of strong women who have made impossible choices in the midst of bleak times. Ultimately, The Baker's Daughter is a triumph of the human heart and the impressions we make on the lives of others. I highly recommend this book to those who enjoy historical fiction, women's history, and those looking for critiques on families and love. I don't think its possible for me to capture in this review how much I loved this book and how deeply it spoke to my heart.

In closing, I'd like to leave you with a quote that really spoke to me: "The marks on our lives are like music notes on the page - they sing a song" (pg. 123). I am inspired to go forth and make sure the marks I leave in my encounters with others will produce beautiful harmonies.

One Last Gripe: I wanted to know more about Josef and the ship. What truly happened?

My Favorite Thing About This Book: Learning new things about WWII and the current immigration debate

First Sentence: Long after the downstairs oven had cooled to the touch and the upstairs had grown warm with bodies cocooned in cotton sheets, she slipped her feet from beneath the thin coverlet and quietly made her way through the darkness, neglecting her slippers for fear that their clip might wake her sleeping husband.

Favorite Character: Elsie

Least Favorite Character: Major Kremer

Summary:

In 1945, Elsie Schmidt was a naïve teenager, as eager for her first sip of champagne as she was for her first kiss. But in the waning days of the Nazi empire, with food scarce and fears of sedition mounting, even the private yearnings of teenage girls were subject to suspicion and suppression. Elsie’s courtship by Josef Hub, a rising star in the Army of the Third Reich, has insulated her and her family from the terror and desperation overtaking her country. So when an escaped Jewish boy arrives on Elsie’s doorstep in the dead of night on Christmas Eve, Elsie understands that opening the door puts all she loves in danger.

Sixty years later, in El Paso, Texas, Reba Adams is trying to file a feel-good Christmas piece for the local magazine. Reba is a rolling stone, perpetually on the run from memories of a turbulent childhood, but she’s been in El Paso long enough to get a full-time job and a full-time fiancé, Riki Chavez. Riki, an agent with the U.S. Border Patrol, finds comfort in strict rules and regulations, whereas Reba knows that in every good story, lines will be blurred.

Reba's latest assignment has brought her to the shop of an elderly baker across town. The interview should take a few hours at most, but the owner of Elsie's German Bakery is no easy subject. Elsie keeps turning the tables on Reba, and Reba finds herself returning to the bakery again and again, anxious to find the heart of the story. For Elsie, Reba's questions have been a stinging reminder of darker times: her life in Germany during that last bleak year of WWII. And as Elsie, Reba, and Riki's lives become more intertwined, all are forced to confront the uncomfortable truths of the past and seek out the courage to forgive.

SARAH McCOY is author of the novel, The Time It Snowed in Puerto Rico. She has taught English writing at Old Dominion University and at the University of Texas at El Paso. The daughter of an Army officer, her family was stationed in Germany during her childhood. She calls Virginia home but presently lives with her husband and dog, Gilbert, in El Paso, Texas.The Baker’s Daughter is her second novel. She is currently working on her next novel.

Find out more about author, Sarah McCoy:

Check out the other great stops on this tour:

Monday, February 6th: Diary of an Eccentric

Tuesday, February 7th: You’ve GOTTA Read This!

Wednesday, February 8th: The Feminist Texican

Thursday, February 9th: girlichef

Friday, February 10th: Unabridged Chick

Tuesday, February 14th: Life in the Thumb

Wednesday, February 15th: BookNAround

Thursday, February 16th: Book Snob

Thursday, March 1st: The Lost Entwife

Monday, March 5th: Books Like Breathing

Tuesday, March 6th: Reading Lark

Wednesday, March 7th: Savvy Verse & Wit

Thursday, March 8th: A Cozy Reader’s Corner

Friday, March 9th: Amused By Books

Friday, March 9th: Broken Teepee

TBD: Teresa’s Reading Corner

Book Review: Erebos

2012-03-05T08:00:00.000-05:00

Erebos

By: Ursula Poznanski

Published By: Annick Press

Publication Date: January 2012

Page Count: 434

Buy it at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or IndieBound

Source: Provided by Publisher

Genre: Young Adult - Science Fiction

This read a lot like I imagine World of Warcraft plays... it is a story about a game which is passed from player to player, in the uttermost secrecy. It is also a little like Fight Club... everyone knows who is in it, but they can't talk about it. They can't reveal their game identities, and Nick, the central character, spends a lot of time trying to work out which of his friends are which characters. The game sucks more and more of his peers in, and Nick can't understand how the game always knows when he tries to dig deeper about it.

The first half of the book takes place almost entirely within the game, Erebos. Nick's character Sarius goes on quests and picks up extra points, equipment and skill levels. The interesting thing here is not really the quests... it is Nick's descent into obsession. It is pretty understandable, and from someone who is not an avid gamer, I think that it was interesting.

Inevitably, the plot of the book moves past the game, as it becomes clearer that the game's motives stretch into the real world, and it mobilizes it's players like an army... each receiving tasks which individually don't make sense. Nick sets out to work out what is going on, along with a couple of other players.

What finally maps out, is a well considered and intricate plan. I was kept guessing by the plot and there were more than a few surprises. I am not sure if I really liked Nick at all; he was very morally flexible at certain points. In the end, I thought this was an enjoyable and different read, even if it isn't something I would normally pick up.

Summary:

An intelligent computer game with a disturbing agenda.

When 16-year-old Nick receives a package containing the mysterious computer game Erebos, he wonders if it will explain the behavior of his classmates, who have been secretive lately. Players of the game must obey strict rules: always play alone, never talk about the game, and never tell anyone your nickname.

Curious, Nick joins the game and quickly becomes addicted. But Erebos knows a lot about the players and begins to manipulate their lives. When it sends Nick on a deadly assignment, he refuses and is banished from the game.

Now unable to play, Nick turns to a friend for help in finding out who controls the game. The two set off on a dangerous mission in which the border between reality and the virtual world begins to blur. This utterly convincing and suspenseful thriller originated in Germany, where it has become a runaway bestseller.

Ursula Poznanski is an award-winning children’s author. She lives in Vienna, Austria.

Cover Crazy: Ascend

2012-03-05T07:45:00.000-05:00

The purpose of Cover Crazy is to feature a cover each week for us to admire its beauty. I really like this idea since there are so many great covers out there! Cover Crazy is a meme that was started by The Book Worms.

I decided to finish out Amanda Hocking's Trylle series in our Cover Crazy feature. I have already featured the previous two books, but I still can't get over the prettiness. Whoever designed all three covers deserves some serious kudos - these are works of art. I love that the font and title decoration remained the same for all three books. Each book has been really focused on a color. The first was read; the second was blue. I have to say though that this one is my favorite because I am loving all the green. My eyes were also drawn to the floating dandelion tufts. Those make me think of making wishes as a kid and lend a slightly playful nature to the cover. I also noticed that the clouds in the background seem to be churning as if a storm is approaching. The girl also looks more powerful than she did on the previous covers. What are your thoughts on this one?

Music Monday: Paramore

2012-03-05T05:00:00.000-05:00

Music Monday is our chance to feature music that we really love. Many writers use a writing playlist to help set the mood and tone of the scenes they are writing. We like to spotlight music from our favorite authors' playlists, but sometimes we just go with our favorite songs.

This week we are featuring a song from Cara Lynn Shultz's Spellcaster.

Spotlight on Blind Sight

2012-03-04T08:00:00.000-05:00

We are excited to share an excerpt from Blind Sight with our readers today. Enjoy!

Excerpt: Blind Sight Through the Eyes of LeocardoReyesWritten by Ermisenda Alvarez

Prologue

Something was wrong. Leocardo’s blind, sixteen-year-old sister Odette wasdrawing. She stood next to the fridge and scribbled feverishly on a piece of paper.

“Odette?” he walked over, certain his eyes deceived him. He quickened his pacewhen she didn’t respond. “Odette what are you doing?”

Something was wrong with her eyes; her pupils were huge, and they engulfedher usual chestnut color.

“Odette, stop.”

He tried to pull her arm, but like a cat that didn’t want to be picked up, sheseemed to become instantly heavier. The pen continued to run across the page as hersilence persisted. He frowned, growing angry.

“Odette!” She did not flinch.

He glanced down at the paper and realized her scribbling were actually animage. Trees and mountains framed a large lake on the paper and Leocardo wasfrozen in confusion. How was she drawing? The pen fell onto the paper as Odettecollapsed into Leocardo’s arms.

Twisting her around to face him, he demanded, “What were you doing? Answerme!”

Her limp body shook in his arms; her eyes closed and she was barely audible asif on the brink of passing out. “I don’t feel good,” she murmured weakly. Even thoughshe was naturally petite and fragile, now she looked like she was about to shatter. “Iwant to sleep.”

The warm brown crept back into her unfocused eyes and her pupils normalized.

“Odette,” he started again, but her trembling became more violent so hestopped.

“Okay.” He scooped her up in his arms and carried her to her room. As soon asshe hit the sheets, the trembling stopped and almost as quickly, snoring followed.

Leocardo wanted to wake her up so he could question her, but he was not sureif she would have any answers. He couldn’t help but wonder if this had happened toher before. He stormed back to the kitchen, picked up the paper, and examined thedrawing. The sun’s rays tore through the clouds, and Odette had even added glimmerto the lake’s rippled surface. Odette had been blind since birth; so how could she havedrawn this so perfectly? If he hadn’t seen her doing it, he never would have believedit.

Leocardo slouched into the leather couch, still holding the paper. He felt athrobbing pain behind his eyes. Staring at the drawing, he tried to glean some divineunderstanding of what it meant or how she had done it. His black labrador, Cielo, hadabandoned him to sit outside Odette’s bedroom.

An hour passed; he was no more enlightened. He looked up to find Odettestanding in the open doorway to her room. He kept silent, but his gaze followed her.She seemed better, no longer moving with the mechanical gestures she had used whenshe was drawing. Cielo’s nails clicked on the hardwood floor as she followed Odette’severy move.

With disbelief, he watched as Odette began to prepare somesandwiches. “Odette,” he called softly, not wanting to startle her.

“Yeah?”

Leocardo hesitated; why was she acting like nothing happened? “Whathappened to you before?”

She shrugged, “I guess I had low blood sugar. It was just a headache.”

“What do you remember?” he pried. How could she not remember?

“I had a headache. I went to the fridge. I got dizzy for a second. You caughtme.” She paused. “How’d you get from the couch to the fridge that fast?” she asked,as though he was the one who did something strange.

“What?” Irate, he marched over. “Don’t you remember drawing this?” Heflapped the page so she could hear it rustle. “What are you trying to pull? This isn’t agame.” He was losing his already short patience.

Her brow pressed together and her lips thinned as she let out a frustrated huff.She spoke slowly, as if concerned he was losing his mind. “Leo… you know I can’tdraw, much less see whatever it is you might be holding.”

“I know you can’t,” he said a little defensively. Why was she questioning himwhen she should be providing answers? “You got up and went to the fridge beforeyou started to draw this. I’m not making this up. I have the drawing right here in myhand!” He restrained himself, shaking the paper again, as if hearing the sound madehis story more believable.

Odette’s calm expression indicated that she was not amused.

“How can you not remember?” he asked angrily.

He sighed and dropped the drawing onto the floor. His fingers ran through hishair as he tried to make sense of everything without flying off the handle.

“I’m sorry,” Odette murmured, “but I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“It’s okay… sorry,” The moment was awkward and disjointed; he was unsurewhat to do. Odette went back to making the sandwich, and Leocardo returned to thesofa. He snatched the remote and flipped between channels until he settled on thenews.

Tragedies flashed on the screen as Leocardo watched, wanting to distract hismind. Spanish television bored him, but he didn’t know what else to do. The newsfeatured new government policies in Spain that did not directly affect them amongstother random trivialities. The information changed, and the news channel nowfeatured Alaska and their trading links with other countries.

“Edaion,” Leocardo repeated one of the countries listed. A sudden andoverwhelming desire to visit this island nation overtook him.

Odette came over and sat next to him, her unfocused eyes in the directionof the screen. Leocardo leaned forward as if being pulled into the screen. He wasmesmerized. Slowly he felt his eyelids droop.

“Edaion,” Odette whispered. A silence fell over them and a supernatural filmbegan to wrap around them, invisible to all, it pressed down on him. Cocooned inthis new state, he continued to stare in a trance at the screen. Unable to make sense ofanything anymore, he had never wanted anything in his life as much as he wanted totravel to Edaion.

When he tried to stand, he felt an immense pressure upon his shoulders,face and chest. He reached out to Odette, feeling as though he was falling throughthe sofa itself. Cielo whined and nuzzled his knee. His grip around Odette’s handtightened. Suddenly the pressure snapped and he felt the painful sensation of beingrammed from all sides. The sensation of being hit by a train from every angle wasoverwhelming.

In a dreamlike state, he stumbled forward with Odette sandwiched between himand Cielo. He was somewhere else. The air was clean and chilly. A stranger’s armbrushed up against him as a group huddled together, all looking lost and confused.Half a dozen dogs circled and sniffed them. Trying to restore his equilibriumdistracted him from the dogs until they wouldn’t leave Odette alone. They sniffed andlicked her palms causing her to wipe them on his shirt. Someone asked him if he wasokay, but he did not answer. The speaker herded the group onto a bus, and as soon ashe was seated, Leocardo’s head fell against the windowsill. Blackness engulfed hisvision.

The bus lurched and Leocardo was propelled into the seat in front of him. Hiseyes flew open; his throat felt dry and his nose was pink from the cold. Someone helda drawing before him and had colored it in. It was blurry, and as he reached out, hisfingers hit glass. With his sleeve, he wiped the window to see the drawing becomeclear. Something was wrong.

Why was it behind glass? Where was he? Why was he on a bus? His gazedarted back to Odette who had Cielo nuzzling her affectionately. Her eyes wereclosed. He woke her up with a shake of the shoulders.

“What is this?” Leocardo demanded as if she would know.“What’s what? You’re the one who can see, remember?” Her voice was softand timid. He realized she was just as confused. He wrapped his arm around her andpulled her close and then placed a soft kiss on her forehead.

His gaze returned to the window. It was still there. As the bus meanderedthrough perilous mountains, he never lost sight of the lake. It was glistening, majesticand overwhelming in size, but it was not a drawing. This time he knew it was real.Something was terribly wrong.

Want More? Check out more of Leo's story or give Aniela's a try!

Goodreads: (Aniela/Leocardo)

Amazon: (Aniela/Leocardo)

Smashwords: (Aniela/Leocardo)

Magic Lamp Sunday 3/4/12

2012-03-04T07:00:00.000-05:00

Book Review: Die For Me

2012-03-03T08:00:00.000-05:00

Die For Me (Revenants #1)

By: Amy Plum

Published By: HarperTeen

Publication Date: May 2011

Page Count: 341

Buy it at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or IndieBound

Source: Purchased by Reviewer

Genre: Young Adult - Paranormal

FIVE BRIGHT and SHINEY STARS!!!

Die for Me will definitely be going on my "favourites" shelf. I absolutely ADORED this book!! This addictive story had all the elements that I look for in a favourite novel: smart and relatable protagonist, very-near-perfect *cough* HOT love interest, wonderfully executed story, great supporting characters, awesome setting (PARIS!!), and a new and interesting mythology, which was very refreshing. It had it all!

Die for Me introduces us to a seldom written about paranormal UNDEAD creature called a revenant, and despite the traditional brain-eating, disgusting zombie stereotype... there is nothing icky about these revenants... not when they look (and act) like Vincent, Jules and Ambrose.

The lore on revenants in this book was clearly explained and it worked so well. These selfless revenants were once human--their first true death was the result of sacrificing themselves in place of someone else, and for whatever reason, some of those selfless individuals were chosen to come back from the dead and continue saving human lives by purposely putting themselves in place of the person about to die. Their purpose is so noble and one that they are very passionate about... it is part of who they are. They cannot deny their compulsion to save a human from certain death, which sometimes means their own death--from which they do come back from over and over again.

Die for Me takes place in Paris, France. Kate, and her older sister Georgia, have moved to Paris to stay with their grandparents, Mamie and Papy, after their parents died in a car accident. Coping with this loss and trying to rejoin the living has proven very difficult for Kate especially; it's almost ironic who helps her heal... an UNDEAD 19 year old boy, Vincent.

Kate was easy to connect with and a great protagonist. She was REAL and honest. Her inner dialogue was relatable and understandable. I thought she had a good head on her shoulders and a great sense of humour. Her mother always believed she was an 'old soul'... and that is evident in Kate's personality and maturity level. Her reactions to most situations were realistic and believable. The following excerpt is one of my favourite snippets from Kate's inner dialogue:

"I love him. I had been keeping those three words stuffed deep inside of me, for my own protection. But I was done with self-preservation and my heart was open. I had feared that love would make me vulnerable. Instead I felt empowered." (pg. 340)

Kate's relationship with the gorgeous, incredibly charming, chivalrous and enigmatic Vincent progressed beautifully and at a believable pace. Their romance had my heart melting left and right. Vincent is a very charming 19 year old (in revenant years -- how they age is explained in the book) who first catches Kate's eye at a cafe, and they continually run into each other afterwards. (They later joke about stalking each other.) He was so very sweet and passionate. However, at first, I wasn't sure about Vincent as he seemed too good to be true, but I think I fell for him right along with Kate.

Kate & Vincent's love story was all about risk. Was Kate willing to risk her heart falling in love with a supernatural being who lives a dangerous life and was going to die over and over again in someone else's place? Of course, she questions whether or not she can handle such a life with him. Her feelings were still so raw so soon after her parent's death. But is Vincent worth it all? So as not to spoil the story... you'll have to read to see just how worth it he is. But I think when Jeanne (their endearing servant) told Kate he was worth it... that sealed it up for me.

For Vincent, he was taking a very big risk in bringing a 'human lover' into their lives. He also hadn't opened up his heart to anyone since Helene -- the girl he loved before he died his first death and became a revenent so many years ago.

Vincent's 'kin' added more than their share of richness to the story... from the flirty Jules who seems to have more than a friendly interest in Kate, to the adorable and brawny Ambrose. Little Charlotte, the lone female in this clan of revenants, is just incredibly sweet but also a little bit lonely, and her twin brother Charles, who is a little messed up. Kate and Georgia's grandparents Mamie & Papy were just lovable and very progressive by traditional grandparent's standards. Gaspard--the nervous poet and capable adviser and mentor. And Jean-Baptiste (JB) served as the patriarch of this family of revenants... a cautious and more elderly revenant with reserved charm. The camaraderie between the household of revenents was wonderful... they are each others' friends and family.

I also loved the relationships between the human characters... especially Kate and her polar-opposite older sister, Georgia. They are each others best friend--they argue but they also have the others back. I liked that we saw a very real sisterly relationship between them.

And what is a story without some bad-guys, huh? In this story, the bad guys are evil revenants called the numa. They are bent on destroying lives... not saving them like Vincent's kindred.

As an aside... I have to make a point about the book's cover... it's simply stunning! And I was further thrilled that the pages inside definitely lived up to this gorgeous cover.

Die for Me ended on a lovely note--ending so nicely without a major cliffhanger. Amy Plum's great writing made me want to read the next book, well before I was even finished, without being dependent on an unresolved plot. I did not want to throw this book against the wall... in fact, I hugged this book. It made me happy!

P.S. This book was even better the second time around! Spectacular and I'm still hugging it!

Summary:

In the City of Lights, two star-crossed lovers battle a fate that is destined to tear them apart again and again for eternity.

When Kate Mercier's parents die in a tragic car accident, she leaves her life--and memories--behind to live with her grandparents in Paris. For Kate, the only way to survive her pain is escaping into the world of books and Parisian art. Until she meets Vincent.

Mysterious, charming, and devastatingly handsome, Vincent threatens to melt the ice around Kate's guarded heart with just his smile. As she begins to fall in love with Vincent, Kate discovers that he's a revenant--an undead being whose fate forces him to sacrifice himself over and over again to save the lives of others. Vincent and those like him are bound in a centuries-old war against a group of evil revenants who exist only to murder and betray. Kate soon realizes that if she follows her heart, she may never be safe again.

What's Your Status? 3/3/12

2012-03-03T07:45:00.000-05:00

What's Your Status? was started over on Butterfly Feet Walking on Life. Check back each Saturday to find what's been keeping the Larks busy this week.

Reading Lark's Review Status:

Falling (Girl with Broken Wings #1) by J. Bennett

Goddess Interrupted (Goddess Test #1) by Aimee Carter

Tiger, Tiger by Margeaux Fragoso

The Iron Queen (Iron Fey #3) by Julie Kagawa

The Calling (Darkness Rising #2) by Kelley Armstrong

Bad Apple by Laura Ruby

Die for Me (Revenants #1) by Amy Plum

Reading Lark's Post Status:

Magic Lamp Sunday

February Emptying the Nest Winners!

Guest Post: J. Bennett

Cover Reveal: Luminosity by Stephanie Thomas

Cover Crazy: Ultraviolet

Music Monday: KT Tunstall

Teaser Tuesday: The Baker's Daughter, Until I Die, Destined, & Starters

YA Paranormal Activity Giveaway Hop Winners!

Waiting on Wednesday: The Last Echo

Book BFF: Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games Trilogy

The Shopping Lark #6

* Finished This Week

* Currently Reading

* Next on TBR List

* Finished This Week

* Currently Reading

* Next on TBR List

* Currently Reading

* Next on TBR List

* Finished This Week

* Currently Reading

* Next on TBR List

Book Review: Bad Apple

2012-03-02T22:35:00.001-05:00

Bad Apple

By: Laura Ruby

Published By: HarperTeen

Publication Date: October 2009

Page Count: 256

Buy it at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or IndieBound

Source: Library

Audience: Young Adult - Contemporary

Bad Apple tells the story of troubled high school student, Tola Riley. She functions on the outskirts of high school society and doesn't seem to really have a niche. The only place she feels valued is in art class. However, her safe haven soon becomes a nightmare when allegations began to swirl throughout the school that she is having an affair with her art teacher. A part of Tola delights at the possibility that someone like her teacher could find her appealing. However, she firmly denies the allegations as does the teacher. Despite this decision, the rumors continue to circulate and Tola realizes that she is no longer in control of the situation. Bad Apple speaks to the destructive power of rumors.

Tola's story is one that many high school students will find appealing because there are so many of them that live on the fringe. High school can be such an awkward place at times. Hopefully, readers can learn from Tola's ordeal. Rumors are not always the best way to gain social standing and they often can have lingering consequences for everyone involved. As a teacher, I am constantly trying to get my students to truly think through the judgments they make about one another. It feels like every day we are having discussions about why rumors can be so painful and why they need to be avoided. I appreciate that the author of this one took the time to really focus on the beast that is high school and how sadly it tends to devour some of its inhabitants.

I really enjoyed Laura Ruby's writing and Tola's voice. She is one of those characters that is laced with a sarcasm and intelligence. You feel for Tola's situation - even when she makes choices you disagree with - and can't help but want her to find happiness in the end. Her flaws make her real and well rounded. Is Tola truly the bad apple that her peers have made her out to be? Or rather is the high school popularity gauntlet the place that harbors rotten fruit?

One Last Gripe: It always breaks my heart to watch teens suffer without a strong and loving family to provide support - I know its not realistic that every teen will have someone to support them but that doesn't stop me from wishing it were true

My Favorite Thing About This Book: Laura Ruby's writing style

First Sentence: Mr. Mymer, my art teacher, is tall and skinny with floppy hair the color of yams and a peculiar affection for "funny" tshirts: CLUB SANDWICHES, NOT SEALS. YOGA IS FOR POSERS. FULL FRONTAL NERDITY.

Favorite Character: Tola

Least Favorite Character: Chelsea

Summary:

Junior Tola Riley doesn’t care what people say about her. She knows her ever-changing hair color and goth clothes make her an easy target. Whatever. But the latest rumor is different.... The entire school believes she had an affair with her art teacher. The rumors may be a lie, but the fallout is all too real. Will Tola finally stand up for the truth?

With a heroine you'll root for and a truly relevant story, Laura Ruby has once again brought the authentic teen experience to life for readers who relish dark humor and razor-sharp wit.

The Shopping Lark #6

2012-03-02T21:42:00.000-05:00

Each Friday, Reading Lark is going to feature new releases each week to help give you some ideas of what to buy next. Feel free to share what books you're excited about that came out this week in our comments section.

YA Releases for the week of 2/27-3/4:

Adult Releases for the week of 2/27-3/4:

Book Review: The Calling

2012-03-01T08:00:00.000-05:00

The Calling (Darkness Rising #2)

By: Kelley Armstrong

Published By: HarperTeen

Publication Date: April 10, 2012

Page Count: 326

Buy it at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or IndieBound

Source: ARC Graciously Provided by Publisher

Audience: Young Adult - Paranormal

Read my review of book one, The Gathering

I just need to start this review by saying this is an AWESOME book. I really liked the first book, but this one totally blew me away. I read most of the book largely in one sitting. I could not stop reading; the plot was action packed and I couldn't stand not knowing what was going to happen to Maya and Co. Kelley Armstrong never ceases to amaze me with her flawless writing style and creativity. I love the life she breathes into these characters; The Calling is one of those books that pulls the readers into the action. I felt like I was with the group throughout the entire story and I was upset to see it come to an end. I am so anxious for book three to see how this trilogy is going to wrap up. If you have not started reading this series yet - drop everything and buy the first book TODAY. It's that good.

In the first book of this trilogy, The Gathering, readers meet Maya and her classmates while learning about the town of Salmon Creek. The town was created by the St. Clouds, who own a corporation that specializes in medical technology. Everyone who lives in the tiny town of Salmon Creek, located on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada, is involved with the corporation on some level. The teens in town feel lucky to live in such a tight knit community in such a beautiful location, but things start to get strange when newcomers enter the tiny hamlet and start asking questions. Book one truly serves to gives us information on this world and to start laying clues that will be important for future reads.

The Calling picks up right where book one left off as Maya and several other teens from the town board a helicopter to escape a forest fire that threatens to leave Salmon Creek in ashes. From sentence one, there is nothing but fast paced action that provides momentum for moving this trilogy along. Book one had its slow moments, but this edition does not suffer from that malady. There is not a dull moment. I am strongly opposed to spoilers in reviews so I won't say more, but I am dying to talk to someone about this book.

One of my favorite aspects in The Calling was getting more specific information on Maya and Daniel's abilities. There are also other gifted teens that are revealed in this edition. I didn't get all the answers to my questions, but I was happy to see that some light was shed on lingering confusion from book one. The supernatural element of this one is fascinating and I have to applaud Kelley Armstrong for doing something different. While she still includes some traditional supernatural beings such as witches - they are not the traditional ones you have read about in the past.

I have also been told by several other fans of Kelley Armstrong that I need to read the Darkest Powers series since there is going to be some crossover between this trilogy and that one in the future. I will certainly do that before book three of this one comes out. Armstrong has solidified her spot on my favorite authors list with this book and I would read anything she has written with no hesitation.

One Last Gripe: I don't have any. Shocking, huh?

My Favorite Thing About This Book: The world Armstrong has created - I love everything about it

First Sentence: I don't know who was more anxious - Daniel or Kenjii - but they weren't making this emergency helicopter evacuation any easier.

Favorite Character: Maya

Least Favorite Character: I can't say because it is a spoiler

Summary:

Maya and her friends--all of whom have supernatural powers--have been kidnapped after fleeing from a forest fire they suspect was deliberately set, and after a terrifying helicopter crash they find themselves pursued by evildoers in the Vancouver Island wilderness.

Book BFF: Katniss Everdeen

2012-03-01T07:45:00.000-05:00

Book BFF was created by Larks Andrea, Paula, and Jen to showcase some of our favorite ladies & was originally inspired by Book Boyfriend. We'd love it if you'd join us featuring your favorite Book BFFs and leaving links so we can check out your posts. We will be alternating between Book Boyfriends and Book BFFs on Thursdays.

Katniss Everdeen, from The Hunger Games Trilogy by Suzanne Collins

Nickname:

Catnip (Gale’s nickname for her)

Appearance:

She has long straight black hair, which she mostly keeps braided. She has gray eyes and her skintone is olive. She is fairly small for her age (16/17) and has the wiry and quite skinny physique whichcomes from never quite knowing how good your next meal will be, or when you will see it. She startsThe Hunger Games with a number of imperfections and blemishes to her skin but these are quicklyfixed by her make-up team during the preparations for the games. They also ensure she is wellwaxed, much to her horror!

Facts about Katniss:

Her name comes from a common edible plant of the same name... her father said if she could findherself then she would never go hungry.

She was born and raised in District 12, where the main industry is coal mining.

Her father died in a mining accident, leaving her mother extremely depressed and Katniss was forcedto step up to look after the family. She has not forgiven her mother for this.

Katniss is a skilled hunter and frequently crosses the electric fence into wild country to hunt to feedher family.

Katniss is a well known face at The Hob, the center of black market trading in District 12.

She is an excellent shot with a bow and arrow, and uses this to her advantage during the trainingsessions for the Hunger Games.

Katniss volunteers for The Hunger Games in place of her younger sister, Prim.

She dislikes her sister’s cat, Buttercup, and he dislikes her... mainly because she tried to drown himin a bucket once.

Katniss prefers to make friends with under-dog types.

Quotes:

“What do they do all day, these people in the Capitol, besides decorating their bodies and waitingaround for a new shipment of tributes to roll in and die for their entertainment? ” Katniss on thepeople of the Capitol

“Barbarism? That’s ironic coming from a woman helping to prepare us for slaughter. And what’s shebasing out success on? Our table manners? ” Katniss on Effie Trinket’s opinion of District 12

“It’s lovely. If only you could frost someone to death.” Katniss on Peeta’s cake skills“Well, Catnip, stealing’s punishable by death, or hadn’t you heard?” Gale to Katniss

“Why am I hopping around like some trained dog trying to please people I hate.” Katniss onpreparing for her TV appearance.“You were about as romantic as dirt until he said he wanted you. Now they all do. You’ll all they’retalking about. The star-crossed lovers from District Twelve! ” Haymitch on Katniss and Peeta’s lovestory

“I want to do something, right here, right now, to shame them, to make them accountable, to showthe Capitol that whatever they do or force us to do there is a part of every tribute they can’t own.That Rue was more than a piece in their Games. And so am I.” Katniss

“I stare in the mirror as I try to remember who I am and who I am not.” Katniss

Why she’s my Book BFF:

Katniss is a born survivor. She is adaptable and creative when it comes to problem solving. She facesher fears head on, and tries to stay true to her heart. She is very loyal to those she cares for, evenif she doesn’t fully understand her feelings for them. I particularly think this endears her to peoplebecause she would be a very loyal friend; she would stick up for you. Having said that, I think if youever fell out with her she would be quite obstinate!!

She is also very independent and doesn’t let others sway her when deciding what to do, and as aresult many take this as defiance of the corrupt government. When she is faced with becoming asymbol for the fight for freedom, she is hesitant and doesn’t let it go to her head. She cares, butshe is realistic enough to make the hard decisions necessary to survive. I think that there are manycharacteristics in Katniss that would make a great best friend and role model for young girls, and I’dbe happy to call her a friend. After all, we’ve been through a heck of a lot together!

Book Review: The Iron Queen

2012-02-29T08:00:00.000-05:00

The Iron Queen (Iron Fey #3)

By: Julie Kagawa

Published By: Harlequin Teen

Publication Date: January 2011

Page Count: 358

Buy it at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, or IndieBound

Source: Purchased by Reviewer

Audience: Young Adult - Fantasy

P.E.R.F.E.C.T.I.O.N. in EPIC proportions!

BRILLIANT! I read the netgalley of The Iron Queen before the book was released (thank you Netgalley and HarlequinTeen!)... it was so good I immediately had to reread the series up to and including The Iron Queen again. I am still blown away! Julie Kagawa is a master story teller. She has the ability to paint the scene with her words and describe the characters so richly, it's like a movie is playing in my head as I read.

Julie masterfully orchestrated the perfect faerie story with a modern twist. It will touch on every raw emotion you have so be ready for a very emotional roller coaster ride.

The Iron Queen starts off with a bang and keeps a full pace throughout. Meghan and Ash have been exiled to the mortal world. Meghan is, in her mind, planning her future in the mortal realm after some rather life-altering events that took place in the previous books. However, this book proves that those thoughts were futile from the very beginning. Meghan's destiny has other ideas.

Meghan has to be my favourite heroine/protagonist EVER! She is tough yet vulnerable. Her character develops and matures in a believable and yet dramatic way. She's not perfect, and still tends to revert back to her 17 year old idiocies at times, but that grounds her, in my mind. But when the chips are down... she's got plenty of courage and determination to fulfill what she sets out to do. She sacrifices so much for the greater good... that's a huge part of her character and is so very integral to the story... it's all about sacrifice for those she loves. What I also adored about Meghan is that she is the sort of person who just brings out the best in everyone around her. You can't help but want to be her friend.

I still have a real soft spot for Puck. He, of course, has to be where Meghan is... old habits die hard.... and so we find out that he has chosen to follow her into exile as well. Puck continues to be sharp witted, and there is a bit of a bitter edge to him now. It's a tough pill for him to swallow, seeing Meghan and Ash together... happy. My heart really goes out to him.

And Ash... oh where do I begin?? Meghan has grown by leaps and bounds since the beginning of this series... but perhaps the most astonishing transformation is in Ash. The former prince of the Unseelie Court sheds several layers of his icey facade and displays what has been hiding behind his (beautiful) mask, and it reveals a wonderful hero. In The Iron Queen, we learn a lot about Ash's background, and why he puts up that blank mask -- for protection -- both for his heart and from the Winter Court. It's heart-warming that it is Meghan who touches his heart and brings out the real Ash. He hit all the right buttons for me. Ash was fiercely protective of Meghan, yet tough on her too... for example, when she asked Ash to teach her to fight. He was not gentle with her. He loved her enough to teach her to fight for real... with skill, instincts and cunning, which in turn, also boosted her confidence, and helped make her a stronger person all around. Ash is the epitome of the perfect "knight in shining armour"... literally. In my eyes, he is the perfect love interest, leading man, hero. There is nothing I don't love about him.

Grimalkin is back... popping in and out as required...always in time to save their butts, along with his infamous retort when asked to explain himself, "I am a cat".

We meet some "friendly" Iron Fey, too: Glitch, Razor (I LOOOOVE Razor!!), and some of Iron Horses's kin.

All the characters, good and bad, come alive... no one is superfluous... each has a purpose, and are rich and dimensional. Each and every character pulls some sort of emotion out of you. Julie made me care so much for all of them.

There is TONS of action sequences and surprises with just enough "I knew it" tidbits thrown in to make you clap to yourself! And with Meghan and Ash, there is NO shortage of romance. *sigh*... beautifully written and perfectly balanced.

I will not give the ending away but I will say that it literally left me emotionally drained. This story sat with me for a very long time afterwards. That's how I know it was so good... it leaves an impression that doesn't easily fade away. And regarding the ending, THANK GOD I knew ahead of time that there will be a fourth book in this series, The Iron Knight!!! Knowing there will be more story got me through the ending of this one, even though the plot of this book had its conclusion.

I tell you honestly... if you haven't started this series yet... YOU HAVE TO... RIGHT NOW!! This is EPIC... PHENOMENAL! Well done, Julie K! Well done! And I still say... if I could give it a hundred birdies, I would!

Summary:

My name is Meghan Chase.

I thought it was over. That my time with the fey, the impossible choices I had to make, the sacrifices of those I loved, was behind me. But a storm is approaching, an army of Iron fey that will drag me back, kicking and screaming. Drag me away from the banished prince who's sworn to stand by my side. Drag me into the core of conflict so powerful, I'm not sure anyone can survive it.

This time, there will be no turning back.

Waiting on Wednesday: The Last Echo

2012-02-29T07:45:00.000-05:00

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event that is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine where she spotlights upcoming releases.

This week I am waiting on....

The Last Echo (The Body Finder #3)

By: Kimberly Derting

Release Date: April 2012

Violet kept her morbid ability to sense dead bodies a secret from everyone except her family and her childhood-best-friend-turned-boyfriend, Jay Heaton. That is until forensic psychologist Sara Priest discovered Violet's talent and invited her to use her gift to track down murderers. Now, as she works with an eclectic group of individuals—including mysterious and dangerously attractive Rafe—it's Violet's job to help those who have been murdered by bringing their killers to justice. When Violet discovers the body of a college girl killed by "the girlfriend collector" she is determined to solve the case. But now the serial killer is on the lookout for a new "relationship" and Violet may have caught his eye....

YA Paranormal Activity Giveaway Hop!

2012-02-29T07:30:00.000-05:00

A BIG thank you to all those who entered. The winner has received an email concerning their prize. They have 48 hours to reply with their shipping information. If they fail to do so, a new winner will be chosen in their place.

The winner of the SIGNED copy of Bloodrose by Andrea Cremer is...

Lisa R.

Book Review: Tiger, Tiger

2012-02-28T08:00:00.000-05:00

Tiger, Tiger: A Memoir

By: Margaux Fragoso

Published By: Farrar, Straus, and Giroux

Publication Date: March 2011

Page Count: 336

Buy it at Amazon or IndieBound

Source: Purchased by Reviewer

Audience: Adult - Memoir, Abuse

This is a very difficult book to give a star rating to. On the one hand, it was absolutely compelling and I read it in a single sitting. On the other hand, the subject matter is frankly disturbing and I would feel wrong about giving it five stars. So I'm going to leave this one without a birdie rating... I'm sure you will understand why through reading my review.

This is a memoir (the first memoir I have ever finished) which details a woman's memories of growing up in the thrall of a pedophile. A friend's husband recommended this to me, as it was required reading on his teaching course, and I think this is an important book to read for everyone. It is not necessarily a pleasant read, far from it as there are scenes where the author was coerced into sexual acts at the tender age of 7/8, but I have learned a heck of a lot about what it is like to be the object of a pedophile's attention, and how they can convince their victims into thinking what is happening is right. I have seen this book on YA bookshelves, but I really don't think that it is something you want anyone under 16 to be reading; it isn't graphic but it is disturbing.

The prologue and afterword were very interesting, as the author stepped away from the past and described things as an adult. It is very scary just how locked into the relationship she was as a young girl - thinking she wanted the relationship and what came with it, but having painful physiological reactions brought on from mental anguish, it seems. It was like her body knew deep down that it was all terribly wrong, but she just couldn't consciously deal with that.

I really need to think on this book a lot more. I don't really want to put it on my list of recommendations, despite how compelling it was, and I don't want to keep the book in my home at all, but I do feel like this was a very important story that got told, and I think more people need to hear it to try and save future victims from suffering. I was quite appalled that throughout, the girl's mother (who was not entirely 'there' mentally) didn't have the slightest inkling of what was going on, and she thought the whole thing was very innocent. I'd say this is an important book for mothers to read; you just never know.

Summary:

One summer day, Margaux Fragoso meets Peter Curran at the neighborhood swimming pool, and they begin to play. She is seven; he is fifty-one. When Peter invites her and her mother to his house, the little girl finds a child’s paradise of exotic pets and an elaborate backyard garden. Her mother, beset by mental illness and overwhelmed by caring for Margaux, is grateful for the attention Peter lavishes on her, and he creates an imaginative universe for her, much as Lewis Carroll did for his real-life Alice.

In time, he insidiously takes on the role of Margaux’s playmate, father, and lover. Charming and manipulative, Peter burrows into every aspect of Margaux’s life and transforms her from a child fizzing with imagination and affection into a brainwashed young woman on the verge of suicide. But when she is twenty-two, it is Peter—ill, and wracked with guilt—who kills himself, at the age of sixty-six.

Told with lyricism, depth, and mesmerizing clarity, Tiger, Tiger vividly illustrates the healing power of memory and disclosure. This extraordinary memoir is an unprecedented glimpse into the psyche of a young girl in free fall and conveys to readers—including parents and survivors of abuse—just how completely a pedophile enchants his victim and binds her to him.

Teaser Tuesday: The Baker's Daughter, Until I Die, Destined, & Starters

2012-02-28T07:45:00.000-05:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly feature, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading.

Jane smiled. "Just 'cause you're born in a place don't make it home. Sometimes I watch the trains go by and wish I could jump on. Watch the planes scratch the blue and wish I was inside. Mom's always called me a daydreamer, a stargazer, a rambler - whatever I am, I wished to God I wasn't. Dreaming doesn't do me a bit of good."

~ The Baker's Daughter by Sarah McCoy, pg. 10

"Now that you are here -- now that we're together -- I can't imagine going back to the life I had before. I don't know what I'd do if I lost you now. I love you too much." My throat constricted. He said the three magical words. Out loud. When he registered my stunned expression, his lips curled up at the corners. "But you knew that already, didn't you?" My heart became a gooey mess inside my chest, and then he said it again.

~ Until I Die by Amy Plum, pg. 71 (ARC)

He couldn't say the words. Couldn't say anything. Couldn't breathe. Couldn't see. Blackness descended around him. He had to get to her - he couldn't live without her, didn't know how. Didn't know how to breathe in and out in a world she wasn't a part of.

~ Destined by Aprilynne Pike, pg. 185 (ARC)

It was a war, people. Nobody won. Not us, not the Pac Rim countries. In less than a year, the face of America changed to a sprinkling of Starters like me in a sea of silver-haired Enders, well off, well fed, and oblivious. They weren't all rich, but none of them were as poor as we were, because we weren't allowed to work or vote. That nasty little policy had been in place before the war, with the aging population, but it had become even more of an issue postwar.

~ Starters by Lissa Price, pg. 28 (ARC)

Book Review: Goddess Interrupted

2012-02-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

Goddess Interrupted (Goddess Test #2)

By: Aimee Carter

Published By: Harlequin Teen

Publication Date: March 27, 2012

Page Count: 304

Buy it at Amazon or IndieBound

Source: Graciously Provided by Publisher via NetGalley

Audience: Young Adult - Paranormal Romance

Check out my review of book #1, The Goddess Test

Aimee Carter has outdone herself with this one. I was so impressed with how much more solid her writing was this time and how she totally stepped up the suspense. I did enjoy The Goddess Test - don't get me wrong - but I have to say that I enjoyed Goddess Interrupted more. The pacing and sense of urgency kept my heart racing until the very end. Carter has taken the traditional Greek myths and added her own spin to them that makes them delicious and addictive. I am already craving book three.

Goddess Interrupted picks up the summer after The Goddess Test. Kate has spent her summer traveling through Greece with James, but she's looking forward to heading into the Underworld to spend some time with her husband, Henry. For those who haven't read this series, its closely related to the Persephone and Hades myth. Persephone, is in fact, Kate's older sister. However, when Kate arrives she finds that Henry is distant and the Underworld is in chaos. Calliope is bent on revenge and Kate is most certainly the target. To make matters worse, Calliope has allied herself with Cronus, the trapped Titan. Titans are the only beings that can kill an immortal. A battle is brewing and humanity hangs in the balance.

I enjoyed the plot of this one. I couldn't put the book down for long. The anxiety over what was going to happen to Kate and Henry kept me wanting to read. I loved losing myself in this world and this story. After a really stressful week, it was the perfect medicine. Carter has created characters that I love in spite of their flaws. Furthermore, I really liked that Kate's apprehension concerning Persephone come to the forefront in this one. Kate has always seen herself as a consolation prize living in the shadow of her long dead sister who still owns a portion of Henry's heart. It is apparent that Kate and Henry can never truly move forward in their relationship until the past is resolved. The conflict between Kate, Henry, and Persephone made for some pretty intense moments. I also don't feel like this book is a bashing of Persephone at all. Each one of these characters makes mistakes concerning relationships and seeks to work through those issues.

In addition, I also liked the change of setting for this one. In book one, the reader becomes familiar with life on the surface at Eden Manor. However, in this book, everything happens in the Underworld. I found it fascinating to learn how Henry's Underworld works in comparison to the traditional version from the original mythology. The segments of the book in which Kate is outside of the palace and interacting with her environment were some of my favorite.

One issue I had with this book was Kate's attitude about herself. I understand that she feels she can never live up to Persephone for Henry or her mother, but I hated when she would put her self down. She constantly did this through the first half of the book. I always find myself getting frustrated with main characters who can't see their own true worth. I could understand her second guessing Henry's intentions and emotions, but she should be able to have some faith in herself. She seemed to be very whiny and self absorbed during this one. While I understood where she was coming from, I wish that there had been a little less of this happening. I was pleased to see Kate start to change in this respect by the end of the book; she started to show some of the old spark that made her so appealing in The Goddess Test.

Overall, I loved this one. I do have to say that Carter is just cruel - the cliffhanger in this one will have your mouth hanging open and tears threatening to spill over. I wasn't sure how to feel or respond. If the ending doesn't leaving you wanting book three immediately then there is something wrong.

One Last Gripe: It was very confusing to remember which God and Goddess went with each modern name. I had to keep my copy of The Goddess Test nearby to use as a reference.

My Favorite Thing About This Book: The plot

First Sentence: Calliope trudged through the sunny field as she ignored the babble of the redhead trailing behind her.

Favorite Character: Henry

Least Favorite Character: Calliope

Summary:

Kate Winters has won immortality.

But if she wants a life in the Underworld with Henry, she’ll have to fight for it.

Becoming immortal wasn’t supposed to be the easy part. Though Kate is about to be crowned Queen of the Underworld, she’s as isolated as ever. And despite her growing love for Henry, ruler of the Underworld, he’s becoming ever more distant and secretive. Then, in the midst of Kate’s coronation, Henry is abducted by the only being powerful enough to kill him: the King of the Titans.

As the other gods prepare for a war that could end them all, it is up to Kate to save Henry from the depths of Tartarus. But in order to navigate the endless caverns of the Underworld, Kate must enlist the help of the one person who is the greatest threat to her future.

Henry’s first wife, Persephone.

Music Monday: KT Tunstall

2012-02-27T07:30:00.000-05:00

This week we are featuring a song from Catherine McKenzie's Spin.

Cover Crazy: Ultraviolet

2012-02-27T07:00:00.000-05:00

I admit that I knew nothing about this book before seeing it on a friend's GoodReads feed. The cover drew my eye, though- I was at first puzzled about whether the girl is a real human, because her facial expression reminds me of angel statues I've seen in cemeteries. Next I noticed the hair: long, wild, and tempestuous. The face seems so stony and lacking life, while the hair is uncannily lively. I love the fade to black as the eye moves down the page, and the unfocused tree leaves in the background, lending the picture an imaginary soundtrack. And then I read the synopsis. . . and immediately put it on my to-read list!
Readers, what do you think of this cover?

Cover Reveal: Luminosity

2012-02-27T00:01:00.000-05:00

LUMINOSITY (Luminosity, #1) by Stephanie Thomas (September 11, 2012)

"My name is Beatrice. When I was born, I was blessed with the Sight. I was immediately removed from my parents and enrolled in the Institution. At the age of twelve, I had my first true vision, earning my raven’s wings. And when I turned seventeen, one of my visions came true. Things haven’t been the same since.

The Institution depends on me to keep the City safe from our enemy, the Dreamcatchers, but I’m finding it harder to do while keeping a secret from everyone, including my best friend Gabe. It is a secret that could put us all in danger. A secret that could kill me and everyone close to me.

But the enemy has been coming to me in my dreams, and I think I’m falling in love with him. He says they’re coming. He says they’re angry. And I think I’ve already helped them win."

Paperback Available for Pre-Order from Amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Luminosity-Stephanie-Thomas/dp/1620611279/ref=lh_ni_t

Add to your Goodreads TBR:

http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13425149-luminosity

Guest Post with J. Bennett

2012-02-26T11:29:00.000-05:00

Please welcome to the Nest the fresh voiced J. Bennett, the author of Falling, the first book in her Girl With Broken Wings series. I hope y'all enjoy her as much as I have!

Anatomy of an Angel

Thank you to the lovely ladies of Reading Lark for hosting me and forsupporting so many talented authors. Since this blog is geared for savvy andpassionate readers, I thought it would be fun to write about one of the mostrewarding and challenging aspects of writing paranormal fiction. Withoutfurther adieu…

“It’s a legitimatequestion,” my sister insisted over the phone.

“Is not,” I shot back.

“Well….if you don’t knowthe answer…”

“Of course I know,” Isnapped at her. “It’s just…does it really matter?”

“It does to me. Maya doesn’teat human food; she feeds off human auras, so… does she poop or not?”

Writing my first novelhas been an amazing adventure. I knew it would be hard. I knew there would beplot holes to fill, dialogue to carefully craft (and then re-craft and re-craftand re-craft…), and pacing knots to patiently untangle. Did I ever think that Iwould spend several days contemplating whether or not my main character poops?

No, but that’s both thefun and challenge of writing in the paranormal genre. You can make yourcharacters do the most unbelievable things…as long as it’s believable.

What I mean is that theparanormal elements must work; there must be some rudimentary foundation oflogic, some master plan or map that the author has built behind the scenes.

Let me take a step backand provide a little context. I recently released my first novel, Falling , book one in the Girl With Broken Wings series. Falling is a paranormal adventurefeaturing Maya, a college sophomore who is abducted and changed into an“Angel”. My angels aren’t of the fluffy-wing, harp-wielding variety. They are agroup of genetically-enhanced super humans who possess extremely keen senses,reflexes and strength. Additionally, they can see emotions as colors in theauras that each human exudes. Angels feed off these auras, making humans theirnumber one snack of choice.

When I created Maya as acharacter, I had to develop her unique voice, define her motivations (easy –she mostly just wants to find and kill the one who changed her), and figure outhow her new body worked. It was kind of a cool process. Not only did I need tochart the mechanics of her new abilities, I also had to demonstrate how thischange affected her life.

I spent a lot of timeimaging how Maya interacted with a world in which she could hear the other endof a phone conversation from across the street, run a sub-four minute mile andlift three hundred pounds overhead easily. Then there was the hunger. Enhancedsenses are great, but I also had to describe what it was like for Maya to liveevery day tempted to feed off the energy of the humans around her (includingher two vigilante rescuers who also happen to be her half-brothers).

Probably the mostdifficult aspect of creating Maya was figuring out how the auras worked anddefining a consistent system wherein different colors, movement and brightnessall helped Maya read the emotional patterns of the humans around her. It didn’thelp anything that I decided everyone’s aura was slightly different or that oneof her half-brothers, Tarren, starts catching on to Maya’s abilities and locksdown his emotions.

I have a whole colorchart that correlates to emotions. My sister has a habit of peppering mequestions like, “what color is angst?”, “what about hubris?”

Hubris? Seriously? I needto have an aura color for hubris?

The easiest paranormalelement for me to write was the actual way in which Maya feeds. It’s kind offunny how some things can be so very clear, and other aspects are a struggle todefine and develop. Maya’s feeding as definitely on the “very clear” side ofthings. In fact, it was almost the first part of her I ever saw.

Like most of the things Iwrite, Falling started out as asingle scene that materialized inside my head and then wouldn’t leave. Iimagined a young woman approaching a bed where her brother slept (this wouldeventually turn out to be Gabe). To her enhanced eyes, he is cloaked in abeautiful blue aura. She hungers for that aura, for his energy. The addictionis so strong that she cannot fight it. Asshe drifts closer to the bed, the skin peels back from her palms andvein-covered bulbs lift out of each hand. Unable to stop herself, she reachesout her hand, ready to attach her feeding bulbs to his aura and drain him.

This scene eventuallybecame the prologue of the novel, and I built the angel feeding mechanicsaround that central vision of the skin peeling back from Maya’s palms and thebulbs slowly lifting out. I added more details and even drew up an “angelanatomy outline” for myself, but the essentials remained the same.

I think readers may beinterested to know how much thought writers put into all the background detailsof how paranormal elements work in their stories and how many reams (electronicreams now) of charts, anatomy outlines, lists of aura-color correlations neversee the light of day.

I wonder this myself whenI pick up a new paranormal novel (by “pick up” I mean download onto my Kindle).I’m sure it varies from author to author. I imagine some authors are obsessivelike me (must make more charts), while others put more faith in the reader’s ability to suspend belief. Personally, Ireally like when I can really visualize how a certain element works.

I love details. I love feelingthe story in my bones, and I love it when readers come to me with questionslike “Does Maya need to brush her teeth?” “Can she get pregnant?” But even I have my limits…which is why thepoop question will remain unanswered!

Falling is J Bennett’s first novel and the first book in the Girl With Broken Wings series. It iscurrently available as an ebook for $2.99 on Amazon,Barnes& Noble and Smashwords.J Bennett is a professional copywriter and copyeditor. She also writes the blogwww.ShyWriter.com

Book Review: Falling

2012-02-26T10:00:00.000-05:00

Falling

Book #1 in the Girl With Broken Wings series

Author: J. Bennett

Release Date: January 2, 2012

Published By: Smashwords

Buy it at Amazon (Only $2.99, y'all!)

Source: Provided By Author

Audience: YA/Older Teens/Urban Fantasy

My Thoughts:

Fresh - That's my first thought. Falling a fresh take on the paranormal/genetic engineering world, with a refreshing voice. Maya is imperfect, sarcastic and believable; and her plight is heart-poundingly realistic. Tarren and Gabe also fall into this category and can barely be called secondary characters, because their voices and personalities are strong and defined.

The author crafts (and crafts very well in my humble opinion) a dark world where Angels are anything but angelic and more vampiric in nature. One thing remains true, however - Brothers are a pain in the ass, even when they're saving yours. The trio have a really great dynamic going on between them, and I having a brother myself, I enjoyed it very much. (Speaking of siblings, you can read all about the author's most pressing questions, often asked by her own sister, here, as well as get a peek into the writing process)

I also loved the detail that went into creating the auras and their colors, as well as the feeding and how it all affects Maya. It's a world and a family I want to know more about. It is classic good vs. evil but with so much more going on underneath the surface.

As far as debut novels go, J Bennett has hit the ground running and I can't wait to watch her pick up speed and take off!

Summary:
The intellectual challenge of college and the warm embrace of a serious boyfriend have given Maya the wings she needs to break away from her bookish and shy reserve. Her ideal life comes crashing down when she and her boyfriend are accosted by a stranger. A stranger with glowing hands.

Maya's boyfriend is killed. She is kidnapped. Changed.

A rescue comes, but not soon enough.

Maya’s senses sharpen, her body becomes strong and agile, and she develops the ability to visually see the emotions of those around her as colorful auras…beautiful auras…tempting auras.

And then there’s the song…

Now, Maya must struggle to control the murderous appetite that fuels her new abilities, accept her altered condition and learn to trust two vigilante half-brothers she never knew she had. As she joins the battle against a secret network of powerful and destructive beings that call themselves "Angels", Maya vows to find and destroy the one who changed her.

On the bright side, at least Maya's oldest half-brother has stopped trying to kill her.

February Emptying the Nest Winners!

2012-02-26T09:30:00.000-05:00

A BIG thank you to all those who entered. Each winner has received an email concerning their prize. They have 48 hours to reply with their shipping information. If they fail to do so, a new winner will be chosen in their place.

The winner of Bloodlust (Vampire Beach #1) by Alex Duval is Kelly M.

The winner of The Betsy-Tacy Treasury by Maud Hart Lovelace is Linda I.

The winner of The Twilight Companion by Lois Gresh is Linda I.

The winner of Eragon by Christopher Paolini is Ashley @ WhollyBooks

The winner of Eldest by Christopher Paolini is Kelly M.

The winner of Mozart's Last Aria by Matt Rees is DJ Librarian

The winner of The Time in Between (ARC) by Maria Duenas is Margaret

Magic Lamp Sunday 2/26/12

2012-02-26T09:00:00.000-05:00

We discovered this meme at Ya-Aholic, where it runs on Fridays. It sounded like a fun addition to our lineup, but fits better here on Sundays. This is based on the basic Magic Lamp = 3 wishes idea. Since there are so many of us, though, we're just taking one each per week.

If we had a Magic Lamp, we'd wish:
Michelle L: I want Noah from Jacuelyn Frank's Nightwalker series. Just Noah, and for the rest of the world to disappear until I say. Which would be an extended period of time.
Andrea: I would love to become Queen of the Underworld like Kate in Goddess Interrupted by Aimee Carter.
Jen: I wish I could witness the hysterical nervous stress of Ethan in Dead to You by Lisa McMann. I just can't quite imagine how it looks.
Michele B.: I wish I had Vincent teaching me how wield a sword! I'm reading Until I Die by Amy Plum.
Paula: I wish I was as smart as Aprilynne Pike. I am reading the 4th Wings book, Destined, and Pike has masterfully woven in some bits from several literature sources, thus creating a fantasy world that seems very believable.

Novella Review: Winter's Passage

2012-02-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

Winter's Passage (Iron Fey 1.5)

By: Julie Kagawa

Published By: Harlequin Teen

Publication Date: June 2010

eBook

Buy it at Amazon or Barnes & Noble

Source: Purchased by Reviewer

Audience: Young Adult - Fantasy

This is really an excellent bridge between the fabulous first two books in The Iron Fey series, both of which I absolutely adored.

I LOVED that this little short-story was about Meghan & Ash's journey to the Unseelie Court... not only the physical journey but also their romantic/emotional journey.

Meghan is starting to fully embrace her fey heritage, and with that comes the fact that she takes her contracts seriously and recognizes that she must fulfill her end of the bargain.... including the contract she made with Ash... where she agreed to accept his help in getting Ethan back (which she needed), and in return, she promised to surrender herself to Ash so that he would bring her to the Winter Court, as Queen Mab (his mother) ordered.

Ash's feelings for Meghan are growing exponentially (and vice-versa), yet he is torn between his vow that he has to fulfill, which cannot be rescinded, and his growing feelings for Meghan who, being a half-feary of the Summer Court, is also his enemy.

Meghan continues to amaze Ash (and me) with her compassion and determination... and I love seeing her grow in this regard.

Their journey is also not without risk and danger. Part of the danger is that they are being chased by something they cannot see but can certainly sense. Meghan, being half human, is also vulnerable to the weather conditions in the Winter Court... another danger she must overcome.

Puck is still recovering from the injuries he sustained in The Iron King so he does not really have a part in this mini-story, sadly. Although, Grimalkin is popping in and out of the picture when it suits him (but does lend a helping paw)!

This was definitely a nice little bridge to the next book, The Iron Daughter.

Summary:

Meghan Chase used to be an ordinary girl...until she discovered that she is really a faery princess. After escaping from the clutches of the deadly Iron fey, Meghan must follow through on her promise to return to the equally dangerous Winter Court with her forbidden love, Prince Ash. But first, Meghan has one request: that they visit Puck--Meghan's best friend and servant of her father, King Oberon--who was gravely injured defending Meghan from the Iron Fey.

Yet Meghan and Ash's detour does not go unnoticed. They have caught the attention of an ancient, powerful hunter--a foe that even Ash may not be able to defeat....

An eBook exclusive story from Julie Kagawa's Iron Fey series.

What's Your Status? 2/25/12

2012-02-25T07:45:00.000-05:00

What's Your Status? was started over on Butterfly Feet Walking on Life. Check back each Saturday to find what's been keeping the Larks busy this week.

Reading Lark's Review Status:

Dust City by Robert Paul Weston

Spellcaster (Spellbound #2) by Cara Lynn Shultz

The Iron King (Iron Fey #1) by Julie Kagawa

Firelight (Firelight #1) by Sophie Jordan

Spin by Catherine McKenzie

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

All These Things I've Done by Gabrielle Zevin

Winter's Passage by Julie Kagawa (Iron Fey #1.5) by Julie Kagawa

Reading Lark's Post Status:

Emptying the Nest Giveaway - LAST DAY TO ENTER IS TODAY (2/25)

Magic Lamp Sunday

Cover Reveal: Inbetween by Tara Fuller

Cover Crazy: UK Editions of Graceling and Fire

Teaser Tuesday: Goddess Interrupted & Die For Me

Waiting on Wednesday: Mirage

Book Boyfriend: Ash from the Iron Fey Series

YA Paranormal Activity Giveaway Hop - ENDS 2/28

The Shopping Lark #5

* Finished This Week

* Currently Reading

* Next on TBR List

* Finished This Week

* Currently Reading

* Next on TBR List

* Finished This Week

* Currently Reading

Book Review: All These Things I've Done

2012-02-24T22:28:00.001-05:00

All These Things I've Done (Birthright #1)

By: Gabrielle Zevin

Narrated By: Ilyana Kadushin

Published By: Macmillan Audio

Publication Date: September 2011

Audio Length: 10 hours, 11 minutes

Buy it at Amazon or IndieBound

Source: Library

Audience: Young Adult - Dystopian

On the Writing & Story:

I was so excited when I picked this book at the library a few weeks ago. I couldn't wait to dive into it. I'm not a huge fan of dystopians, but I was attracted to this one because the premise was so unique. The year is 2083 and life as we know it has been drastically altered. Society has almost reverted back to the 1920's when prohibition and organized crime reigned.

Anya Balanchine, the main character, is the daughter of an infamous crime boss who ruled the Balanchine family and its chocolate empire. Yes, in 2083, chocolate is an illegal substance. I'm not a big chocolate fan, but I have many friends who wouldn't survive in a world in which chocolate was only available on the black market. However, I don't think I'd be too happy in this world since caffeine is also illegal. The government believes that things like chocolate and caffeine caused society to crumble. Speakeasies spring up throughout the United States and crime families climb up the ladder of power by peddling forbidden goods. This idea is so interesting and made of awesome.

However, the book just didn't live up to my expectations. My biggest problem was that some of the elements within the plot didn't do a lot to move the story forward. I found myself bored throughout several sections in the middle of the book. My mind would find some daydream to latch onto and then I'd come back into the story and be totally lost. In spite of the intriguing concept, I found Anya's life to be somewhat mundane. She is a normal girl whose learning to be a woman and falling in love in the midst of this new society, but her life is school, her family, and her boyfriend. Yes, she has to deal with some issues due to her family's shading dealings that sets her apart from other YA characters, but don't we all have family issues from time to time? Many of the other elements she deals with such as her ailing grandmother and being in charge of her family are things that real teens often have to learn to handle. Furthermore, I was somewhat disappointed that so much of the book revolved around Anya and her family while I felt like the world building that I have come to expect with dystopians was seriously lacking.

In spite of my lackluster reaction to this one, I did find the elements concerning the crime family elements to be fascinating ones. I kept having to remind myself that this book was set in the future. The plot held true with what I know about organized crime in American history. In addition, I am a sucker for Romeo and Juliet plotlines. Anya's relationship with Win certainly delivers on that front. I'm curious to see what will become of them in the future. Furthermore, the structure of the novel was interesting. I loved that each chapter began with a quick run down of the things that Anya had done before the chapter went into detail about the events. I also liked that the story is written as if the reader is sitting down with Anya as she tells you the story of her life.

Anya is one of the elements that makes this book stand out in my mind. I admire her strength and loyalty. No matter how difficult things got for her, she still managed to find solutions and do what was best for those she loved. You have to admire her conviction. However, this was not an easy read - it's not happy and things don't always go the way you want. That may be part of my problem with deciding if I truly liked this one or not; I have to be in a certain mood to appreciate the really dark stuff.

I would still recommend this book to those who love crime dramas and romance. At its core, All These Things I've Done is a coming of age story. It has a lot of merits and is well written, but it just wasn't the read for me at the time. I really wanted to like this book more than I did.

On the Audio:

When I realized that Ilyana Kadushin was the narrator of this one I wasn't sure what to expect. Kadushin narrated the Twilight Saga audiobooks and while they were well done and enjoyable there were certain elements about her narration that bothered me. For example, in the Saga audiobooks she pronounces Bella as Bell-uh - that drove me crazy. In this audiobook, she started the book out pronouncing Win's last name one way and by the middle she had changed the way she pronounced it. I know this is a random thing to be annoyed by, but when that last name comes up numerous times in the text it is hard to ignore. Overall, I don't mind Kadushin's voice or the way she chooses to narrate, but I have to admit the name thing is quickly becoming a pet peeve of mine.

One Last Gripe: I didn't like that Win's dad didn't seem to care about his son's happiness.

My Favorite Thing About This Book: The setting in this one is phenomenal. The way that Zevin describes New York City was one of my favorite elements of this book. I love the vision that she sews for the reader.

First Sentence: The night before junior year - I was sixteen, barely - Gable Arsley said he wanted to sleep with me.

Favorite Character: Anya

Least Favorite Character: Gable

Summary:

In 2083, chocolate and coffee are illegal, paper is hard to find, water is carefully rationed, and New York City is rife with crime and poverty. And yet, for Anya Balanchine, the sixteen-year-old daughter of the city's most notorious (and dead) crime boss, life is fairly routine. It consists of going to school, taking care of her siblings and her dying grandmother, trying to avoid falling in love with the new assistant D.A.'s son, and avoiding her loser ex-boyfriend. That is until her ex is accidently poisoned by the chocolate her family manufactures and the police think she's to blame. Suddenly, Anya finds herself thrust unwillingly into the spotlight--at school, in the news, and most importantly, within her mafia family.

The Shopping Lark #5

2012-02-24T21:27:00.002-05:00

YA Releases for the week of 2/20-2/26:

Adult Releases for the week of 2/20-2/26:

YA Paranormal Activity Hop: Stop #26

2012-02-23T22:01:00.001-05:00

Reading Lark is very excited to be participating in this fun giveaway hop hosted by I Am a Reader, Not a Writer and vvb32 Reads. We are stop #26 on this hop. Contest runs February 24-28. However, we did put the post up a little early so we will start taking entries as soon as this goes live. We will announce the Reading Lark winners on February 29.

Tons of great blogs are participating in this hop, so be sure to check out what's being given away at each blog. You have a ton of chances to win some really great books! Most importantly...have fun!

Here at Reading Lark, we are giving away a SIGNED copy of Bloodrose (Nightshade #3) by Andrea Cremer.

Calla has always welcomed war.

But now that the final battle is upon her, there's more at stake than fighting. There's saving Ren, even if it incurs Shay's wrath. There's keeping Ansel safe, even if he's been branded a traitor. There's proving herself as the pack's alpha, facing unnamable horrors, and ridding the world of the Keepers' magic once and for all. And then there's deciding what to do when the war ends. If Calla makes it out alive, that is.

To Enter:

~You must be a Reading Lark follower

~ You must be at least 13 years old
~ Leaving a comment on this post will earn you +2 entries - this is OPTIONAL

~You must live in the U. S. or Canada

~You must complete the form

Click here to fill out the form!

Visit some of the blogs linked below for more chances to win!

Book Review: The Night Circus

2012-02-23T08:15:00.000-05:00

The Night Circus

By: Erin Morgenstern

Published By: Doubleday

Publication Date: September 2011

Page Count: 387

Buy it at Amazon or IndieBound

Source: Purchased by Reviewer

Audience: Adult - Fantasy

To coin a phrase from one of my very best book-friends, The Night Circus is unlike anything I've ever read before... and there can't be a truer statement to make when it comes to this book. I can also say that it wasn't anything that I expected it to be. Was that a pleasant surprise? Yes and no... but yes for the most part. I will explain...

Set around the latter 1800's and spanning int the early 20th Century, at its core, the story is about an age-old rivalry between two instructors in magic... Hector Bowen (aka Prospero the Enchanter) and Mr. A. (Alexander) H-- (no... I didn't forget his last name, it is never given). And in this story, the Circus itself becomes the venue... the forum for the contest... and is befittingly dubbed Le Cirque des Reves -- Circus of Dreams -- another title that could not be more true.

The contest is essentially between Celia and Marco, the protege of these two rivaling instructors, but also involves a larger cast of characters with key roles in this challenge, unbeknownst to them. At the age of five, Celia is dropped at the doorstep of her estranged father, Hector, after her mother commits suicide. Hector can perform magic but the real talent is MAKING the magic look like an illusion so people will believe in it... not the other way around. After seeing that his daughter possesses some raw talent, and deciding he can work with her, he gets in touch with an old 'friend' (Alexander) and they start a new 'wager' on who is the better magical instructor. Alexander accepts the challenge and promptly searches for his own recruit and plucks nine-year-old Marco out of an orphanage. We don't know what he sees in the young, unremarkable Marco but unbeknownst to the young boy, he's been inducted into the grandest contest anyone could ever imagine (or never imagine). With little interaction with his seemingly uncaring adoptive father/instructor, Marco begins to wield magic in epic proportions. Concurrently, Celia is being taught to perfect her own magic, often through brutal and exhaustive lessons at the hands of her father, Hector.

Once Celia and Marco are older... they become intricately involved in the Circus itself. Celia, as an illusionist, and Marco as an assistant to the 'ring-master-behind-the-scenes' who brought the circus together, Chandresh Lefevre. All the while, the stage is being set for the most unique Circus ever invented.

It is not unexpected that this Circus creates a lot of talk wherever it shows up. And it literally just shows up. Where there was once an empty field one day, is magically filled with an elaborate network of black and white tents the next morning. And furthermore, curious people show up at the gates only to find a sign that reads it opens at dusk and closes at dawn.

The Circus is constantly evolving with new spectacles being introduced by both Celia and Marco. For much of the story, one of them does not know who their opponent is... but they begin to admire each others' work...and that becomes the basis for their love story.

To be clear, this is NOT a romance novel... but at the core of it, there is a love story... and there IS a huge difference between those two statements. Celia and Marco's love manifests over time through their magic... and understanding each others' magic is sort of an intimate thing... more so than being in close physical proximity to each other. The author chose to make their love story a key element of the challenge but also made it very subtle. Perhaps, I was looking for a bit more of an EPIC love story... and that would really be my only complaint with The Night Circus.

The story is narrated through several of the character's perspectives... not just through Celia and Marco, but that did not make it hard to follow. I think the way the author pulled all the past, present and future events together was really quite brilliant and she created a beautiful story as a whole.

This is going to be difficult to sum up and put into words... I found that there was nothing that really drove the story... but I still found myself magically pulled in (??!!) I can't figure it out why both sentiments are true in my mind. For me, I wouldn't classify The Night Circus as "I couldn't put it down"... because I could... but it was just simply a very enjoyable read... and I did love it for its uniqueness and originality. Erin Morgenstern's writing was quite beautiful and illustrative and I swear that she possesses magical powers in those departments. I could almost smell the smells, see the visions described before me and feel amazed at watching the spectacle in my mind. It is one of the most imaginative books I've ever read. The concept is incredibly unique and a refreshing change of pace. I'd recommend it to anyone who loves a fantastical story but appreciates a subtle love story alongside.

Summary:

The circus arrives without warning. No announcements precede it. It is simply there, when yesterday it was not. Within the black-and-white striped canvas tents is an utterly unique experience full of breathtaking amazements. It is called Le Cirque des Rêves, and it is only open at night.

But behind the scenes, a fierce competition is underway—a duel between two young magicians, Celia and Marco, who have been trained since childhood expressly for this purpose by their mercurial instructors. Unbeknownst to them, this is a game in which only one can be left standing, and the circus is but the stage for a remarkable battle of imagination and will. Despite themselves, however, Celia and Marco tumble headfirst into love—a deep, magical love that makes the lights flicker and the room grow warm whenever they so much as brush hands.

True love or not, the game must play out, and the fates of everyone involved, from the cast of extraordinary circus performers to the patrons, hang in the balance, suspended as precariously as the daring acrobats overhead.

Written in rich, seductive prose, this spell-casting novel is a feast for the senses and the heart.

Book Boyfriend: Ash

2012-02-23T08:00:00.000-05:00

We decided that Thursday needed a little pizazz and stumbled on this meme while hanging out at one of our favorite blogs, A Book and a Cupcake. So we took ourselves over to The Unread Reader to see what it was all about and join the fun. We'd love it if you'd leave a comment if you participate in this so we can check out your book boyfriends as well.

My Book Boyfriend: Ashallyn' darkmyr Tallyn (aka Ash), The Iron Fey series by Julie Kagawa

How Meghan describes Ash:

"Its rider was tall and lean, garbed in silver and black. A dark cape fluttered from (his) shoulders. Through the rain, I caught the barest glimpse of a face: young, pale, strikingly handsome... staring right at me. My stomach lurched and I caught my breath." p. 46, The Iron King

"... a tall, lean figure dressed in silver and black. A boy, perhaps a little older than me, though it was impossible to tell his exact age. His body was youthful, but there was a stillness to him that hinted at something far older, something incredibly dangerous. (...) Thick, raven-wing hair tumbled to his shoulders, not quite covering (his) delicate, pointed ears. He wasn't human. He was one of them, one of the fey. (...) He was gorgeous. More than gorgeous, he was beautiful. Regal beautiful, prince-of-a-foreign-nation beautiful. (...) Still, it was a cold, hard beauty, like that of a marble statue, inhuman and otherworldly. His slanted eyes, beneath long, jagged bangs, glimmered like chips of steel. p. 81-82, The Iron King

"Up close, he was even more beautiful, with high cheekbones and dark tousled hair falling into his eyes." p. 167, The Iron King

Some Facts About Ash:

- Youngest son of Queen Mab and Prince of the Unseelie (Winter) Court

- He is a hunter

- Spends much of his time in the Wyldwood, instead of at court

- As with all fey, he has an aversion to iron

- His first love, Ariella, was killed by a wyvern as the result of a poor decision made by Puck

- "Frienemy" of Puck

- Abdicated his princehood in order to become Meghan's knight

- Very much in love with the Summer Princess/Iron Queen, Meghan Chase

- Pursued the nearly impossible task of becoming human in order to be with Meghan in the Iron Realm

Why Ash is my Book Boyfriend:

Although he is already spoken for by Meghan Chase, a girl can still dream to be in Meghan's shoes, sometimes. Ash's devotion to Meghan goes beyond words... he literally went to the Ends of the Earth for her. Who could resist that kind of devotion??

And who can resist a hot guy with a sword??

He hit all the right buttons for me. He is the epitome of the perfect "knight in shining armour"... literally. In my eyes, he is the perfect love interest, leading man, hero. Despite his icey facade, he was incredibly sweet and loving towards Meghan. He always wanted what was best for her. Ash was fiercely protective of Meghan, yet tough on her too. For example, when she asked him to teach her to fight, he was not gentle with her. Ash loved Meghan enough to teach her to fight for real... with skill, instincts and cunning, which in turn, also boosted her confidence, and helped make her a stronger person all around. He has faults... he can be stubborn at times (although I would argue he's more determined than stubborn), and he has a past he isn't proud of, but that makes him who he is now. If I had to describe my perfect 'book boyfriend'... it would be Ashallyn' darkmyr Tallyn.

Here's just a tiny sample of Ash's awesomeness:

“His forehead bumped softly against mine, his brilliant silver gaze searing into me. “I plan to keep you, from everyone, for as long as I’m alive. That includes Puck, the false king, and anyone else who would take you away.” One corner of his mouth quirked, as I struggled to catch my breath under his powerful scrutiny. “I guess I should’ve warned you that I have a slight possessive streak.” p. 52, The Iron Queen (ebook version), Julie Kagawa.

Who Would be My Perfect Ash:

I have searched high and lo to find someone that matches the perfect image I have of Ash in my mind. So far, the closest image would have to be Ben Barnes, especially in his role as Prince Caspian of the Narnia series. Although I will admit, he still needs 'silver' eyes.

Book Review: Spin

2012-02-22T08:00:00.000-05:00

Spin

By: Catherine McKenzie

Published By: William Morrow

Publication Date: February 2012

Page Count: 438

Buy it at Amazon or IndieBound

Source: Provided by Publisher for TLC Book Tours

Audience: Adult - Chick Lit, Addiction

This book has been out in Canada for awhile, but it just hit shelves in the US this month. I had seen several great reviews singing its praises so when I was asked to be part of this tour I jumped at the chance. What I found within these pages is a glimpse into human nature and the life of an addict. Spin will take you on a fascinating journey complete with celebrities, rehab, and an amazing playlist.

One of the things that makes Spin such a compelling read is the main character, Kate Sandford. Kate is one of those almost thirty somethings who just can't seem to let her college years go. She keeps hanging out in the typical university age scenes and most of her friends are still in school. She wants to be a music writer, but she doesn't do much to help that goal become a reality. In fact, on the eve of the biggest interview of her life for a coveted spot at The Line, a music magazine, Kate chooses to get drunk with her friends and shows up hungover to the interview. Needless to say she blows her chance and her need for booze gets even worse. Things start to turn around for Kate when she's contacted by someone who works for The Line and a gossip magazine. He promises her the position she craves if she'll go to rehab to spy on the current "It Girl" and dish about it in a tell all article. Kate must decide what's most important to her - the truth or snagging her dream job.

I loved that Kate was so incredibly flawed. She maintains that she's only in rehab because of the article and she can't see that maybe she truly does have a problem with alcohol. As someone who has seen the effects of alcohol on a family member, this portion of the book really hit home. I can remember my uncle maintaining even in his various trips to rehab that he did not have an addiction. Luckily for Kate, she seems to have some moments of clarity and redemption. The book left me feeling that Kate was on the right path to fixing her issues and becoming happier. At the heart of this story is a girl who is unhappy with her life, but feels powerless to change it. In addition, Kate's sarcasm will keep you laughing in spite of the seriousness of the plot.

I also thought this was a compelling read because of its relevance. I couldn't help but think of the various young starlets who are on paths to self destruction. We see their stories plastered all over the internet and on the tabloids. Spin really made me stop to think about how celebrities are treated. Granted its an understood fact that as someone in the spotlight you lose the ability to be anonymous, but I really wonder what gives people the right to be so invasive. At what point does it become too much? I'm certainly guilty of reading the magazines that detail the lives of the rich and famous. I never stopped to consider how celebrities feel seeing those types of things printed about themselves. I don't think the average person would be too keen about seeing their dirty laundry aired in such a public forum.

Spin is compelling and well written. I've already put McKenzie's other works on my TBR List. I love that she is taking such modern issues and putting her own interesting spin on them. I also loved that this novel was littered with musical references and included a playlist at the end. As a music junkie, I always love these types of elements cropping up as I read.

One Last Gripe: I didn't like that Kate and her sister never really resolved their issues.

My Favorite Thing About This Book: I was really fascinated by the relationships in this one - particularly between Kate and Amber & Kate and Henry

First Sentence: This is how I lose my dream job.

Favorite Character: Kate

Least Favorite Character: Connor

Summary:

Kate's To-Do List:

1. Go to rehab

2. Befriend/spy on "It Girl"

3. Write killer expose

4. Land dream job

Piece of cake!

When Kate Sandford lands an interview at her favorite music magazine, The Line, it's the chance of a lifetime. So Kate goes out to celebrate—and shows up still drunk to the interview the next morning. It's no surprise that she doesn't get the job, but her performance has convinced the editors that she'd be perfect for an undercover assignment for their gossip rag. All Kate has to do is follow "It Girl" Amber Sheppard into rehab. If she can get the inside scoop—and complete the thirty-day program—they'll reconsider her for the position at The Line. Kate takes the assignment, but when real friendships start to develop, she has to decide if what she has to gain is worth the price she'll have to pay.

Catherine McKenzie was born and raised in Montreal, Quebec, where she now practices law. An avid runner and skier, she also sits on various boards and professional organizations, and has taught part-time at the McGill Faculty of Law.

Find out more about author, Catherine McKenzie:

Website

Facebook

Twitter

Check out the other great stops on this tour:

Wednesday, February 8th: Book Hooked Blog

Thursday, February 9th: Amusing Reviews

Monday, February 13th: Sara’s Organized Chaos

Tuesday, February 14th: Wandering Thoughts of a Scientific Housewife

Wednesday, February 15th: Reflections of a Bookaholic

Thursday, February 16th: Good Girl Gone Redneck

Monday, February 20th: Col Reads

Tuesday, February 21st: Books Like Breathing

Wednesday, February 22nd: Reading Lark

Thursday, February 23rd: BookNAround

Wednesday, February 29th: A Cozy Reader’s Corner

Waiting on Wednesday: Mirage

2012-02-22T07:00:00.000-05:00

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly event that is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine where she spotlights upcoming releases.

This week I am waiting on. . .

Mirage (Winterhaven #2)

By: Kristi Cook

Publisher: Simon Pulse

Book 1, Haven, was one of my favorite reads of 2011, so of course, I am anxiously awaiting the sequel!

Synopsis on GoodReads: Seventeen-year-old Violet McKenna is back for her senior year at Winterhaven, and thrilled to be with Aidan after a long summer apart. But when a violent and disturbing vision begins to haunt her, Violet suddenly feels unsure of everything: who to trust, if she is in danger, and—worst of all—whether she and Aidan are really meant to be together.

Book Review: Firelight

2012-02-21T20:54:00.001-05:00

Firelight (Firelight #1)

By: Sophie Jordan

Published By: HarperTeen

Publication Date: September 2010

Page Count: 323

Buy it at Amazon or IndieBound

Source: Purchased by Reviewer

Audience: Young Adult - Fantasy

This was AWESOME!! I read it in about 5 hours, and totally couldn't put it down! I loved the new spin on shifting (shapes) - dragons!! So much has been written about werewolves etc, that this felt like something someone should have written a long time ago, and I really loved it.

The story focuses on Jacinda, a draki shifter who is not content with her lot in life. Forced into hiding by the hunting activities of man, she is supposed to be happy about being forced to marry and have children to keep the race alive. Jacinda only feels truly free when she is able to fly, but flying time is seriously restricted and life as a dragon seems hardly worth living - so much so that she feels as if she is withering away. One day Jacinda sneaks out to fly and nearly gets caught by hunters... meeting Will, a young hunter, in the process of escaping. He does something entirely unexpected - he lets her go.

The chemistry between Will and Jacinda was written in such a smouldering way that my heart thumped in my chest as they interacted; this is YA friendly, but it will make readers swoon and then some!! There were plenty of twists and turns in the plot as Jacinda struggles to escape her oppressive tribe and to live as a free girl, and I was reading almost so fast that my eyes tripped over some bits in my anticipation of the next part!! When Jacinda visits Will's home, she stumbles across a room which is nothing short of horrifying; it was just brilliantly written, and I felt Jacinda's horror every bit as strongly as she did.

I loved how Jacinda stayed true to herself, despite the horrific way that her mother and sister wanted her inner dragon to wither and die off. By the end of the book, it really seemed like she had backed herself into such a tight corner, I have no idea how it is going to work out, and I desperately need to know!!

Summary:

A hidden truth.

Mortal enemies.

Doomed love.

Marked as special at an early age, Jacinda knows her every move is watched. But she longs for freedom to make her own choices. When she breaks the most sacred tenet among her kind, she nearly pays with her life. Until a beautiful stranger saves her. A stranger who was sent to hunt those like her. For Jacinda is a draki—a descendant of dragons whose greatest defense is her secret ability to shift into human form.

Forced to flee into the mortal world with her family, Jacinda struggles to adapt to her new surroundings. The only bright light is Will. Gorgeous, elusive Will who stirs her inner draki to life. Although she is irresistibly drawn to him, Jacinda knows Will's dark secret: He and his family are hunters. She should avoid him at all costs. But her inner draki is slowly slipping away—if it dies she will be left as a human forever. She'll do anything to prevent that. Even if it means getting closer to her most dangerous enemy.

Mythical powers and breathtaking romance ignite in this story of a girl who defies all expectations and whose love crosses an ancient divide.