Penny for Your Pages

A Job From Hell by Jayde Scott

2011-09-29T11:56:00.001-07:00

Two out of Five Cents

	I wanted so badly to love this book but I just...couldn't. There was so much potential with the plot, characters, and world but everything just sort of fell flat. There was something fundamental lacking which is so sad. I didn't care for the romance; the plot felt rushed; and something basic was missing from each of the characters. To me, it felt like I had opened up the third book in the series not the first. I was just missing too many pieces for any sort of picture to have been formed by the end which was just so sad. Like I said, I was really hoping to love this book so sad it was such a disappointment!

I wanted so badly to love this book but I just...couldn't. There was so much potential with the plot, characters, and world but everything just sort of fell flat. There was something fundamental lacking which is so sad. I didn't care for the romance; the plot felt rushed; and something basic was missing from each of the characters. To me, it felt like I had opened up the third book in the series not the first. I was just missing too many pieces for any sort of picture to have been formed by the end which was just so sad. Like I said, I was really hoping to love this book so sad it was such a disappointment!

Irony at it's Worst

2011-09-29T09:51:00.000-07:00

So, it is still in the triple digits temp wise here in AZ and I have a cold. That's right! A freakin' cold. So, after two weeks of this, I invested in some of those lovely cold medications they have out on the market these days. Though my cold is now marginally better (meaning I can sort of breathe without inducing a coughing fit), it would be impossible for me to deny feeling a bit fuzzy.

Okay, that's probably the understament of the year. It took my eight tries to type that paragraph before anyone would be able to understand it. Now, I have just given up on it so if it's awful, I'm sorry but I'm done with that chunk of this post.

Onto what I was originally posting about, I seem to have gotten behind on my posting as of late so I promise before the end of next week, I will do my best to have three new reviews up. So wish me luck and pray the stupid computer screen stops spinning like a child's top else those reviews have no hope of being completed.

Every Other Day by Jennifer Lynn Barnes ARC

2011-09-09T20:20:00.000-07:00

Five out of Five Cents

Wow. Every Other Day was something I definitely never expected. It was hit straight over the fence. Barnes (and can I just take a moment to say how much I love her last name) hit the ball right out of the park with this one.

Book Snippet—Goodreads version:

Every other day, Kali D'Angelo is a normal sixteen-year-old girl. She goes to public high school. She attends pep rallies. She's human.

And then every day in between . . .She's something else entirely.

Though she still looks like herself, every twenty-four hours predatory instincts take over and Kali becomes a feared demon-hunter with the undeniable urge to hunt, trap, and kill zombies, hellhounds, and other supernatural creatures. Kali has no idea why she is the way she is, but she gives in to instinct anyway. Even though the government considers it environmental terrorism.

When Kali notices a mark on the lower back of a popular girl at school, she knows instantly that the girl is marked for death by one of these creatures. Kali has twenty-four hours to save her and, unfortunately, she'll have to do it as a human. With the help of a few new friends, Kali takes a risk that her human body might not survive. . .and learns the secrets of her mysterious condition in the process.

Okay, so after reading that, the first thing that came to mind was typical paranormal. It would be hyped up on romance, filled with more Mary Sues than anyone could ever tolerate, and resolved unrealistically through too many deus ex machinas. Much to my surprise, it wasn’t. Not even close.

To start off with, there was very little romance and the little there was, was subdued. At first I thought there was going to be a killer love triangle but I was relieved to find out there wasn’t. No one tried to steal someone else’s boyfriend or girlfriend; it actually surprised me to think of how rarely that occurs in this genre so needless to say that was refreshing.

Then there were the characters. Yet another surprise, I feel in love with them too. Kali, Zev, Beth, Skylar, and her cast of brothers. For once, it was nice to actually like all of the characters I am supposed to have liked for once. Kali fought for the people who mattered to her no matter how little time she had known them. She was guarded though too which was nice to see for once—albeit frustrating at times. Too many heroines spill their deepest secrets at the drop of a hat to complete strangers. Kali definitely was not that sort of heroine.

Zev was mysterious yet endearing in his own way. In all honesty, I know very little about his character though I am intrigued by the idea of learning more. Elliot was a total A$$HAT but for some reason I still loved him and it was probably because like Kali, he did whatever he had to in order to protect the people he cares about. There are few hotter qualities in a book crush but it wasn’t like that with Elliot; I’ll admit he reminded me too much of my own older brother for me to like him like that. Plus he is a bit of a tool. What is it they say, if the shoe fits? Well, the tool shoe fits him perfect. A tool used to protect those he loves sure but a tool is still a tool. Reid and Vaughn were cool too the little bit I saw of them just wasn’t enough.

Then there was Bethany. What a surprise she turned out to be! I can’t go into too much detail as to why I liked her but suffice to say, she was strong. Stronger than anyone gave her credit for and she still held her head up high. I can respect that.

Skylar was a bit of a wild card, I’ll admit, still I liked her too. I bet you guys are sick of hearing that but really, I liked all of the characters. She was quirky and strong too, albeit in her own unique way. Like Elliot and Kali, she wasn’t afraid to make sacrifices to protect the ones she cared about. Barnes’ characters were inspiring.

Then there was the plot. Talk about moving at a fast pace. At first, I was a bit lost with the concept of Darwin discovering all things supernatural but then the creativity of the idea struck me hard enough to knock me on my a$$. I don’t want to elaborate too much on the plot but I can say that don’t start the book with any plans on stopping halfway through. I did. I was just going to read a few chapters and then stop but I ended up getting lost in between the lines. Demon hunter you think, cheesy or cliché, right? Wrong. It was so fresh that my mama could have slapped me.

There were twist, there were turns and that ending left me wanting more than I would have ever imagined. I want a sequel. I crave a sequel but I am going to have to do some digging to see if this Every Other Day is a stand-alone or a part of a series. Though I really hope for the latter, this book could still stand alone. All the important questions are answered (at least that I can think of asking) but there is still room to go on. I would like that last one very much. Have I already mentioned how much I want a sequel?

I digress. Like I said in the beginning: Every Other Day was something I definitely never expected. It was hit straight over the fence. Barnes hit the ball right out of the park with this one. There’s no other way to describe it. I loved this book. I happily give this book Five out of Five cents and send a prayer for a sequel to the publishing gods in their infinite wisdom (well, maybe not infinite. I do have a few complaints I would like to hash out with them when I pass in to the Beyond but as a mere mortal, perhaps now is not the best time to anger the gods). Again, I have digressed but have no fear, my rating still stands. If you have an afternoon free, open Every Other Day. It is well worth the read!

FYI: I was in no way compensated for my review but I don't think that even if I was, I could be even more enthralled with Barnes work.

Thanks Netgalley and EgmontUSA for permission to view this ARC.

Original Review on my Goodreads:

http://www.goodreads.com/review/show/206924424

Iron Knight by Julie Kagawa

2011-08-03T07:24:00.000-07:00

Five out of Five Cents (if it were possible, I would award even more)

One of the questions I get asked most often is, “Any new books to recommend?” I suppose it's a common question for anyone who spends most of their free time with a book in hand but each time it is asked of me, I always feel so pressured. Recommending a book to someone has regularly proved to be a frustrating process for me in the past. You see, everyone has different tastes in everything. Some like this genre more than that genre. This author more than that author. Frankly, there are some books I have loved that others have hated and vise versa. With Julie Kagawa's work though, that has never been the case.

I actually Pre-Ordered my copy of the Iron King (the first book in the Iron Fey series) when it first came out because I was so excited but then it sat gathering dust on my shelf for three months. Finally, one rainy afternoon—I know how extremely cliché—I decided to give the series a try. After all, I had nothing else to do so there was really nothing to be lost but a single dreary afternoon. I'll tell you now with absolute certainty, that was one of the best decisions I have made regarding reading in my entire life.

Kagawa has managed to spin a tale so enthralling I couldn't stand to wait for each installment to be released. Her world is unique and so perfectly described that I can still see the landscape behind my closed lids. Her plots never fail to keep me breathless and unlike other series, they have not worsened with each book. Still, in book four, Kagawa never failed to surprise me. With Kagawa, you never know what's going to come around the corner from a redcap, to a wyvern, to a manticore. Most of you probably have no idea what at least one of these mythical creatures is/are but Kagawa writes each descriptions so brilliantly that you can't help seeing the beast as if it were breathing down your neck (or as is often the case, chasing you through the Nevernever).

Then there are her characters. Each and everyone deserves a category onto themselves. Even though The Iron Knight is the fourth installment in The Iron Fey series, I am still as captivated with each as I was from the first page. I am still follow their emotional journeys as if they were my own. Some of their trials have added perspective to my own and other aspects have even led me to consider the effects of my own life, of my own humanity.

While they all grow together, every character from the main to the supporting is unique unto themselves. I could count the total number of characters (down the very last gremlin) and the laughs, tears, and smiles I have shared with them throughout this series would still outnumber them all.

Though I am sad to see Megan and Ash's journey come to an end, I can't begin to explain how happy I have been to have been along for the ride. So now, when I'm asked, “Any new books to recommend?” I no longer hesitate. Boy or girl. Young or old. It doesn't matter, the Iron Knight is a phenomenal conclusion to a phenomenal series that I happily recommend to all!

Netgalley and Harlequin TEEN, I thank you from the bottom of my heart for permission to view this galley.

The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter

2011-07-24T21:20:00.000-07:00

Five out of Five Cents
I've been feeling terrible lately for the way I have been neglecting my Netgalley. You see, the last few ARCs I got from them weren't exactly as amazing as I would have hoped but when I started the Goddess Test, I can't begin to explain how floored I was!

Everything about it was fresh. It was innovative. It was enthralling. On top of that, I loved the infusion of the mythology. I have been a fan of Greek mythology since I was a little girl so at the first mention of Hades and Persephone I was hooked!

I loved every page of it. From the setting, to the plot, to characters, to the mystery: there wasn't a single thing I didn't love about this book. It was truly unique.

I am now anxiously awaiting the release of the sequel Goddess Interrupted. I cannot wait to see what Aimee Carter has in store next for readers!

So, if you are looking for something new—something fresh—that goes beyond vampires, werewolves, angels, and demons yet still satisfies your desire for the unusual, then The Goddess Test is the book for you.

Absolutely phenomenal! Five out of Five Cents!

Thanks to Harlequin and Netgalley for permission to view this ARC!

A Long Long Sleep by Anna Sheehan

2011-07-24T16:24:00.000-07:00

Three out of Five Cents
Okay, so let me start off this review by stating that I am aware that I am a nerd. That's right, a nerd. I proudly admit that fact without shame; in fact, sometimes I flaunt it.

Now, being a nerd, there are a few “nerdy pleasures” I like to treat myself to every once and a while. One of those “nerdy pleasures”, is a good science fiction book every now and again. That was what I was hoping for when I received my copy of Candlewick Press' A Long Long Sleep from Netgalley. Most unfortunately, I was sorely mistaken.

Despite the buildup in the blurp, A Long Long Sleep isn't really a science fiction book. In fact, aside from a few tidbits thrown in about futuristic gadgets, I really didn't get the sense that the world was really, truly, futuristic. So I guess what I am saying is that it was sorely lacking on the science-fiction front as well as the other, general world-building aspects BUT… if you are not into science fiction and you are just looking for a good read, then you could still give A Long Long Sleep a try. See, it wasn't a bad book. Sure it was a bit slow in parts but it wasn't b-a-d. I can't really explain what I like about it without giving away too much so I hope you guys can just take me at my word when I say that it was “pretty good”.

There was a lot of character growth in Rosalinda which was a nice change from the norm. Frankly, I couldn't stand her for most of the first half but then when she started to grow, I was thrown for a loop. I don't think I have ever gone so completely 180 with a character before. Her journey of self-discovery was amazing and not to mention inspiring. In part, her growth throughout the story made the lack of science-fiction almost palpable. Well, almost.

Overall, I guess my biggest problem with it was the misrepresentation. Maybe if the blurp hadn't been so misleading then I wouldn't have been so bothered by the world Sheehan created. Honestly? If it hadn't been for that science fiction let down, I would have given it four cents. Unfortunately though, the misrepresentation was too much for me to take. It was just TOO disappointing so I was forced to knock off another penny leaving this book a final score of three out of five cents.

Thank You to Netgalley and Candlewick Press for my copy of this ARC!

Summer's Crossing by Julie Kagawa

2011-07-24T14:44:00.000-07:00

Five out of Five Cents

You know, there is a reason I have held off on reading Summer's Crossing for so long. It's not because I can stand to wait, mind you. No, in fact it's actually probably closer to the opposite.

I find that I am throughly addicted to Kagawa's Iron Fey series and only by stalling on reading the next addition did I manage to keep my cravings at bay. Now that I have read Summer's Crossing though, I actually experience physical pain whenever I contemplate just how long it will be before I can get my hand on book four.

Agh, the terrible torture. Whoever says reading is a painless hobby is lying. Summer's Crossing has just reinvigorated my desire to find out what lies ahead for Ash, Puck, Meagan, Grim, and the rest of the gang.

Miss Kagawa, you are just TOO good of an author for your own good!

Without a doubt, I give this addition an unabashed five cents because let's face it, if Kagawa doesn't earn it, then no YA author could ever hope to!

I bet you missed me...

2011-07-23T21:09:00.000-07:00

You know, right now I have about a hundred reasons as to why I have been gone so long flying around in my head but typing any of them now wouldn't be fair to any of you. In truth, I was just overwhelmed by the notion that this is my last summer before I go off to college and suddenly there were a million things I needed to do. I read like a mad woman and I wrote all the reviews too--I just didn't take the time to post them here.

That in and of itself was just ridiculously lazy of me. I mean, come on, how long does it take to make a new post?

So, other than my lightspeed reading, I have been writing, going to movies, browsing the internet (which sounds a lot less harmless when typed out), hanging out with my very odd nerd friends (whom I love dearly), and just enjoying the weather. In retrospect, I feel terrible so now I am trying to make up for it. I posted like the apocalypse was coming at midnight (which is a lie because it will happen in about five months, lol) and now I have managed to make myself feel marginally better.

Now, I am taking that last step and apologizing to the few loyal followers I have (I use the term loyal very loosely because it's not like mine is the only blog you guys follow). Thanks for sticking by me, even with my lack of posting. I promise not to neglect you guys again (not that most of you even noticed).

I'll be posting again soon but until then, Happy Reading to you all!

On a side note:
Isn't that the most amazing photo ever? Right! I know. Amazing. haha

Marked by P.C. Cast and Kristin Cast

2011-07-23T20:56:00.000-07:00

Three out of Five Cents
Okay, so short, simple, and to the point:

From page 1 to 180, this book frankly only earned 1.75 cents.
From page 180 on, it definitely earned five in my opinion.
So as a comprimise, I gave it three cents.
I love the cast of this book especially the supporting characters! It took a while for the plot to get going but once it did I was hooked. And now, I can't wait to get my claws into the sequel!

*Be warned, there are elements that are ONLY for mature readers. If you are not mature enough to handle the content, then don't start this series. That's not a dig of any kind it's just me being frank. There are sexual elements to this book in addition to some underage drinking/drug use. If you do not feel comfortable about reading through such concepts, then this is not the series for you plain and simple.

City of Glass by Cassandra Clare

2011-07-23T20:50:00.001-07:00

Five out of Five Cents

Okay, City of Glass, where to start. I was actually surprised how much I liked this book. With City of Bones, I felt disconnected from all of the characters but that is definitely no longer the case. It seemed everyone's pain was my own. Everyone's joy, misery, success, failure, it was all mine to share with them. There were in fact a few points where I think my heart actually fractured in sympathy. But on the flip side of the coin, I felt untamable like Clary, strong like Jace, fierce like Isabelle, protective like Alec, and wild like Magnus. It was a rush few books have put me through before. Normally I feel like an outsider looking in but with City of Glass I felt inexplicably drawn into Alicante. In the end, I loved this book—definitely much better than both its predecessors, in my opinion—and the series is undoubtedly worth the read!

Additional thought:

I do think the series could have happily ended at the conclusion of this book. Not that I am complaining that their will be more from this series but I just think that a trilogy would have suited these books just as well (possibly even better). I just hope Clare isn't going to go south as more books are added to a series as some most unfortunately do for that would be a tragedy in and of itself.

City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare

2011-07-23T20:48:00.000-07:00

Four out of Five Cents

Much better than the first. I am glad I stuck it through. Clary kind of shined in this one in a way she didn't in the last. Simon bothers me a bit but I feel the other male characters really come into focus in this book. Before I had started City of Ashes, I felt sort of disconnected from all of the characters; I didn't really care if they lived or died. By the end of this book though, I could barely wait to dig my claws into City of Glass so I guess, all in all my opinion of this series has altered in its entirety. I went from not caring about any single character to feeling for each of their sorrows. It was definitely worth struggling through the first book in this series to reach the second and I am sure when you finish it, you'll share the same opinion.

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

2011-07-23T20:44:00.001-07:00

Three out of Five Cents
Okay, so I have heard amazing things about this series and I couldn't wait to get my hands on it. Sadly, there were a few points at which I felt disappointed. It was a fairly good story, don't get me wrong, but a few things were predictable and others were just crazy out-there. All in all, it was good enough that I plan to crack open the sequel and recommend it to all of you but I think I am going to further investigate the series before I form a really solid opinion about this particular author.

Falling Under by Gwen Hayes

2011-07-23T20:40:00.000-07:00

Four out of Five Cents
This is one of those books that the reading community is split down the middle on. Some people love it. Some people hate it. Me? I have to be honest and say that I am leaning towards loving it (but I'm still fully attached to the "liking-it zone" which is like the "friendship zone" for books).

My favorite part of this book was that it wasn't immediately obvious what Haden was. There were some twists that I didn't see coming. One reason I didn't enjoy this book as much as I could have was that the desperation of some of the characters was extremely overwhelming during some parts. Overall, this was a solid starting point for a series. Hopefully some of the desperation will be quelled in the sequel.

Also, might I add that the cover for this book is beautiful. I absolutely love it (no friendship zone there)!

Evermore by Alyson Noel

2011-07-23T20:34:00.000-07:00

One out of Five Cents
I have to say, up until the last twenty pages or so, I was convinced this book might deserved two cents (I could not have been more wrong). None of the characters aside from Ava, Riley, and Sabine remotely appealed to me. Ever was selfish. Damen was a little too dark, mysterious, and secretive for his own good. Her friends were walking stereotypes (which was extremely bothersome to me especially in Miles case since not ever gay teen is interested in musicals as opposed to sports). Even the villain was rarely showcased. Some parts of the plot made me feel like I was on a teeter-totter and it started to become a bit obnoxious. By far, the worst though, was the ending. What Damen allowed himself to do just so he could be sure she cared for him as much as she said was ridiculous! I don't care if the heroine doesn't love you back! Whether or not she does is irrelevant!

*Possible Spoiler*
Watching while she is on the brink of death just so you can be sure of her feelings is freaking insane!
*End of Spoiler*

After that particularly horrendous ending, I am afraid I have demoted this book to a mere one cent rating.

Too bad too since it was recommended to me by a good friend who I hold in high regard. *shrugs* Aw well, I will just have to beat her senselessly with the book until she realizes her mistake (no need to fear friends, my edition is paperback!)! Lol

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

2011-07-23T20:27:00.001-07:00

Four out of Five Cents
Warning, there's a fair bit of ranting in this review so if that sort of thing makes you squeamish it's probably best you turn the other way… lol

So, I finally got around to reading the Hunger Games. I have been hearing about this series since the week it came out and despite all the praise I waited until now to pick it up.

It was a good book, don't get me wrong. It was original, inventive, and interesting book. (Can anyone else feel the “but” that's tagged on there?) On the other hand, I really had a love/hate relationship with the characters and even the story itself.

Katniss was my biggest issue. Sometimes I loved her. Sometimes I hated her. It was like being the ping-pong ball in an “Olympic” match. Her ignorance when it came to Peeta was almost astonishing. Then her actions at the end left me stunned.

*Spoiler Alert*
*Spoiler Alert*
When Katniss denied she really had feelings for Peeta, I wanted to slap her. She was like a ten year-old girl not ready to believe that note that got passed her way in class. It SCREAMS in giant letters: “PEETA'S IN LOVE WITH YOU!!!” and the whole time she is just playing along (i.e. telling herself she's really in like with Gale and he's the one she can't lose when she was ready to commit suicide to keep from killing Peeta.) I mean seriously, I have never kissed a boy either but that doesn't mean I am blatantly ignorant on all things male.

*End of Spoiler*
*End of Spoiler*

Okay, spoilers are over. Sorry for throwing that in your face but I had to type that out or I was going to take my anger about that point out on a verbal rant with one of my uninteresting siblings.

Now, onward I press…

I could list all the reasons why I liked and disliked each of the characters BUT everything I could say would have already been said before. Still I will take the time to say this, I HATE that HAYMITCH is a drunk. Don't worry that's not a spoiler, you'll know that the first time he's introduced.

As someone who has had personal experience with a severely alcoholic parent, I found Haymitch's alcoholism extremely disturbing. Not because he is a drunk. No, I am not naïve. I know there are addicts of all sorts in the real world and it would be ridiculous for a book to exclude a vice like drinking in a society like the Hunger Games' setting. No it wasn't really the drinking that bothered me, it was when Katniss and Peeta both willingly turned a blind eye to it.

I suppose one could argue that they had no other choice but there is always another choice (and personally, I think there is nothing more disgusting than an enabler)! Now many for many of you, this won't be a problem. Sure it could be a nuisance but for me it was painfully close to home—too close in fact for my tastes. Frankly, I felt like Collins was actually encouraging their stance on the issue (you know, if you can't see the monster then it isn't there). Sorry, I am ranting again but that alone was almost enough for me to drop my rating down to three stars.

Then there was the actual story. I mean, talk about brutal. Not that I minded, because I knew what I signed up for when I read it but in all honesty, some of it was a bit unnecessary. (Please don't criticize me for this point). Most unfortunately, I also found the plot to be predictable which was also extremely upsetting. I can't tell you how many times I have been told to read this book and as I look over all my friends' ratings, I feel like I must have been missing something to have found so many problems with the text. Even the lack of polish on the writing style was enough to make me grate my teeth.

For several hours have passed since I finished reading and it took me until to decide how I was going to write this review—how I was going to rate this book. I kept wavering from two stars, to three, then four, lastly to five, and then back around the loop again. In the end, I had just decided on choosing the middle ground and three stars when I remembered Rue.

Being absolutely honest, I would have to say that Rue the day (hehe Rue the day!). She was enough to make up for some of Katniss' stupidity and Haymitch's drinking. So I guess in the end of the end (does that make any sense at all?), I decided on being generous and rewarding the Hunger Games with a hearty four cents.

Angelfire by Courtney Allison Moulton

2011-07-23T20:24:00.000-07:00

Five out of Five Cents
Holy crap!: Two words that sum Angelfire up quite nicely if you ask me.

It has been a long time since I loved a YA book as much as I did this one. I also thought the plot was intriguing. There were some elements I felt were only present in preparation for the sequel but they were still fascinating. I really enjoyed the world Moulton built and the emotions she sculpted suited each of her characters.

Ellie is amazing and strong in a way that is still believable for the part she plays. She is still afraid, angry, and depressed like any normal seventeen year-old girl but her strengths are well-suited for her true identity (which by the way is about as badass as they come!).

Will is a bit secretive for my taste but I still liked him as the love interest. He was served his purpose as a Guardian for Ellie well and I understand the actions he took at the end of the book.

On a side note, I LOVED Michael. He reminds me of my big brother and I really hope to see more of him in the sequel!

I liked the lack of annoying love triangle in this series. I suppose in a sense there was one but not really enough of one for me to consider it a real nuisance which is probably one of the main reasons I loved this book so much.

Still the best part about this book for me—as amazing as the plot and characters were—was the length. This was no pansy 200 page goodnight story. Angelfire was a solid 453 pages and a well-written 453 pages at that (I can say that honestly even though I own an uncorrected proof which is saying a lot). Overall, it was the great start to a series I am certain I will be thoroughly enthralled with.

Well done, Moulton! I am certainly a fan of your work. I cannot wait to see what you bring us in the future!

Sirensong by Jenna Black

2011-07-23T20:21:00.000-07:00

Five out of Five Cents

Phenomenal! There is a reason Jenna Black's Fairywalker series is one of the few YA series I still love to read and there was no shortage of the amazingness (I know that's not really a word but no other adjective really seems to fit) from the previous two books in Sirensong. I love the characters (even the Elkring) and the plot had me on the edge from the first page to the last. Well done, Ms. Black! I cannot wait for the next addition to this gripping and one-of-a-kind series!

Wings by Aprilynne Pike

2011-07-23T20:18:00.000-07:00

Four out of Five Cents

This book has been sitting on my to-read shelf for almost two years now. Finally, I decided to pick it up, wipe off the accumulated dust, and crack it open. Now, I am very glad I did. It was a well-rounded book. I enjoyed the characters as well as the plot.

Laurel is a bit obtuse at some times but she made up for it with her interesting quirks. Seeing as I have been homeschooled myself for the last two years, I felt a sort of kinship with Laurel (though I myself use those kits her family announced they couldn't afford).

David was interesting but I wasn't interested if that makes sense. I don't understand why Laurel trusted him. I mean she saw, she liked, and she told her deepest secret without very much hesitation.

Slightly Spoilerish but not really

I mean if you were going through what she was going through why in the name of all that is holy would you tell some random classmate over your mother in fear that your parents would take you to a doctor to undergo experimentation when your parents have never taken you to a doctor in your entire life? (Wow, that was an incredibly long sentence!)

Slightly Spoilerishness is over

Overall, I prefer Tamani over David but that is another matter entirely. Tamani's funny, arrogant, and he seems to really care for Laurel even if she can't see it.

In the end, I decided to give this book fours cents and with Wings finally under my belt, I think I am going to start Spells as soon as possible to see if Laurel loses her obtuseness!

Angel Burn by L.A. Weatherly

2011-03-07T16:26:00.000-07:00

1 out of Five Cents in a Nickel
For me to not even finish a book, that is an extremely rare occurrence. I almost always power through a book even if it makes me sick to my stomach; I hate to say I quit anything before I really gave it a shot. With Angel Burn, I found I just couldn't swallow anything the author had to say no matter how hard I tried.

My biggest issue, was the idea behind the book. As a devote Christian, I am certain of that which I believe in. Very few things from my faith bleed over, however, into what I choose to read or not read. Angel Burn was one of the first exceptions I have ever discovered. I have never minded reading about angels (fallen or otherwise) but in this book I was struck by how much Weatherly's "angels" reminded me of soul-sucking demons.

Humans were swathed in ignorance while the angels fed off of them and ultimately crippled them. It was a despicable method for portraying those I believe to be God's servants. Add in a psychic half-breed human/angel and a chakra-centering angel hunter and you are left with an annoyingly predictable forbidden love scenario.

All in all, I was disappointed and strangely disturbed with/by what I read. I don't plan on reading any more of the author's works for fear of what they might include. Such a shame, the title and cover were so promising! I guess it's true what they say though: you can't judge a book by its cover.

Note:
I recieved this book as a galley from Candlewick Press on Netgalley.

My Apologies...

2011-03-07T14:25:00.001-07:00

Sorry Followers,

I have had a few crazy weeks in school and I haven't had the time to update my blog. I promise to get to all of your comments and questions by next Wednesday at the latest. In the mean time though, I wish you all "Happy Reading"!

Evernight by Claudia Gray

2011-03-07T14:22:00.001-07:00

2 out of Five Cents in a Nickel

I was actually really disappointed with this book. Bianca and Lucas were cute in the beginning but after one fatal event, I felt like the author picked up an entirely different story with the same cast of characters. A lot of the events that occurred were all over the board and I could never really pin the author's purpose down for anything. She was like a rabbit jumping from burrow to burrow and it quickly became extremely distracting. Overall I felt the characters drab, the plot unfocused, and the romance completely unbelievable. As of now, I am still undecided whether or not to spend my time reading the sequel. With every passing hour my opinion changes a little but as I write this review, I find myself swiftly changing my vote to a firm "no way in hell" (and it's too darn bad because I was really looking forward to Ms. Gray's works).

Jessica's Guide to Dating on the Dark Side by Beth Fantaskey

2011-02-23T18:14:00.000-07:00

1 out of Five Cents in a Nickel

*Sigh*, this book really left me at a loss for words. For those of you not patient enough to read yet another review about a book you may want to read, let me save you some time and sum up my main grievances with this book in one sentence: Oh my god, what the hell was this publisher thinking when he agreed to put his name on this book! I wanted so badly to like this book since I have a thing for Romanian vampires but I just couldn't no matter how hard I tried.

My worst issues with this book were the two main characters--or rather three because I think Jessica/Anastassia experienced some sort of personality split during the course of this book.

Jessica/Anastassia, where to begin. Her so-called “strength” was actually just stupidity and weakness in cheesy costumes from the dollar store playing dress-up. Sometimes, I just wanted to reach through the pages and shake her—possibly even strangle her at some points. In the beginning, she goes off on how much she cannot stand Lucius. At one point her mother even says—and I quote—“Disgust turns to lust.” At some point after that, she realizes how much she “loves” him and often seems to be tripping over herself to be getting his attention. I understand falling “head over heels” but Jessica took it one step further, firmly placing her face in horse manure. *takes deep breath* Without revealing too much of the book, I cannot say much else about our “brave” heroine here but I can say she was a righteous disappointment.

Onto Lucius. Oh, such a waste. Hot, tall, arrogant, Eastern-European royalty? Definitely sounds like the ideal book-boy, right? WRONG! Not only was he seriously disturbed mentally, he was also extremely sexist. I am not saying a man shouldn't be allowed to defend his lady's honor but almost killing someone for the sake of it? To me, that is unacceptable. At that point I practically shouted to Lucius in my empty room, “Just freakin' settle for pulling out her chair, opening a door, or something equally harmless for once. He was no more than a pest, no reason to nearly kill the bug!” Ugh, and if the author typed the phrase, “but I digress” just once more, I would have hurled the book across the room without hesitation. But now, I digress (you have my permission to kill me now that I have said it). He was so wishy-washy it was annoying. I want to marry you. I hate you. I like you. I hate you again. I am vulnerable. Fooled you, I still hate you! Never mind, I love you but I can't show you. Now I am masking my love with my falsified hatred and threats of violence. *bangs head against desk* All the while, Jessica/Anastassia is loving him saying she “knows him” just because she lusts for him.

God, I haven't been so exhausted by such a short book in a very long time. I would continue to complain about: Missy, Jake, Vasile, Faith, that ridiculous guide to becoming a vampire, and even just the plot in general but alas even venting about the book is starting to exhaust me. I need to go lie down next to an Austen novel to hopefully even out the negative book energy “Jessica's Guide to Dating on the Dark Side” left me with.

*sigh* Wish me luck!

PS. Once again, it was such a disappointment. I actually had semi-high hopes for that book. Though as to why is beyond me especially with a title like, “Jessica's Guide to Dating on the Dark Side”. God, what was I thinking!?!

Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead

2011-02-13T19:10:00.002-07:00

5 out of 5 Cents in a Nickel

I've had this book on my shelf for months. MONTHS! I cannot believe I waited so long to read this; what the heck was I thinking! I haven't enjoyed the first book in a series so much in well over a year. I loved Rose and Lissa's friendship. I felt like I related to both in very different ways which was nice (I wasn't entirely on the side of one or the other whenever they fought).

While I am talking about characters, let me start with Christian and Dimitri. Christian was perfectly twisted and I loved that about him. He's snarky, sarcastic, but strangely vulnerable around Lissa (which I adored). Dimitri on the other hand, I love in a totally different way. I feel like my heart is going to erupt from my chest when I even type his name on my keyboard—can you say major book crush! God, smoking-hot Russian vampire with long dark hair,dancer-like grace, and tiger-like strength. I couldn't really ask for more from Mead. Yummy!!

*fans self* Now onto the plot—because I'll probably faint if I continue to think about, well, you know his name. I really enjoyed the plot of this which was nice for a series starter. All the twists and turns forced me to stay up until the wee hours of the morning to finish this. I loved the bond Lissa and Rose shared; it inspired numerous curve balls which was interesting. Without giving too much away, I thought last fifty pages or so were incredibly gripping—no literally, I actually left thumb-dents in a few of the pages when I grabbed them too hard.

All-in-all, it was a fantastic book but if you're looking for something you can put down for a few days this isn't the book for you.

Hearts at Stake by Alyxandra Harvey

2011-02-08T20:07:00.000-07:00

5 out of 5 Cents in a Nickel

For me, the level at which I feel in love with this book was a total shock! Solange, Lucy, Nicholas, Kieran, Helana, Logan, Liam, and all the rest of the cast were developed at a level I never thought possible for such a short book. Between the four main characters, I thought the romance was well done but not in an over the top sort of the way. I really connected with Nicholas and Lucy's pairing (even more so than Solange and Kieren); they were absolutely adorable together! Overall, I think it was a well-written quick read full of adventure and intrigue. If you want something to take your mind off of trivial mortal problems, this book might just be your cure!! Personally, I cannot wait to read Harvey's Blood Feud (it will definitely be moved to the top of my to-read list)!!!

Entice by Carrie Jones

2011-02-03T23:58:00.000-07:00

4.999 out of 5 Cents in a Nickel

Okay, so this was my favorite book so far in the series up until the last three pages! What a disappointment!

Carrie, I love your work but that one chapter was soooo cliché. *groan* I just wanted to close the book right then.

Aside from that ridiculous excuse for a closing chapter, I really did love this book! I cannot wait for the sequel and the journey Carrie continues to take all of her fans on. :D

BTW: GO TEAM ASTLEY!!!!

Captivate by Carrie Jones

2011-02-03T23:55:00.001-07:00

4 out of 5 Cents in a Nickel

This was good but not in the same way Need was; I never really felt afraid. Honestly, Nick and Zara became a bit annoying at times. I think I might turn out to be a fan of Astley but you never know. At the end of Captivate, I was definitely a fan of his. I loved the whole bit about her skin turning blue! Let me just say, I am thoroughly glad my skin doesn't change colors when a boy I am attracted to enters a room. That would make for horrific embarrassment on my part let me just say! Anyway, I enjoyed Captivate but not like I did Need. Hopefully, Carrie Jones will come back swinging even harder in Entice. For the readers' sake, I hope she hits a few more home runs similar to those in Need.

Need by Carrie Jones

2011-02-03T23:51:00.002-07:00

4 out of 5 Cents in a Nickel

Need was an interesting mixture of paranormal elements and typical hellish high school backdrop. I really loved the characterization of Izzie, Zara, Nick, and Devyn. I felt the plot was fresh and my skin had goosebumbs because of the chilly setting. I think Carrie Jones has something really fresh here and I cannot wait to see what becomes of this series—as well as all her other works!!

Bitter Frost by Kailin Gow

2011-02-03T23:45:00.000-07:00

1 out of 5 Cents in a Nickel

Wow, where to start. This line of fantasy has been so overused lately I feel it is becoming as cliché as vampires but some authors (like Julie Kagawa) have molded elements of such fantasies to suit their own plot lines instead of merely robbing what was spawned out of others' creativity. Winter battling Summer seems quite atypical to me but nevertheless I continue to read such novels because normally I experience some enjoyment from them. Kailin Gow's Bitter Frost was definitely an exception.

This novel—as disgusted as I am to call it that since it was no more than a glorified chapter book for children of eight or so—seemed to be ridden with holes. It was less than two-hundred pages long and on top of that the font was of massive proportions!!! I have not read a book with less than two- hundred pages since early elementary school. Kailin Gow was simply too lazy to put any effort into writing this book. Her plot could have been extended five-fold and not have suffered at all; it would actually have been better off. It was almost as if she had decided the readers would be capable of filling in the blanks so there was no reason to give an explanation for anything!

Being an avid reader, I typically think of how a plot could have been improved. Some authors sweep me into their stories with such force that I forget such notions but Gow left me behind waiting for answers. Everything about this book was so predictable that it was exhausting; I was actually inventing my own twists to make up for the nonexistent ones in this book. As lacking as her plot development was though, her skill with character development was even worse—if that were possible.

Plain girl who doesn't fit in, best friend who secretly adores her, and the dark forbidden love interest. I am glad I have come to know there are author's out there with more depth than this. It would truly be a dark world if this was all the world of literature had to offer. If an author is determined to go down this course, than they at least need to add some pizazz!! I mean seriously!! Some author's have your blood racing in tune with the protagonist's but Gow's romantic scenes caused me to develop a headache and stifle a wave of nausea. We know very little about the main characters especially the borderline-abusive love interest. What is the deal with authors today encouraging teens to fall for abusive (I mean 'overprotective') male protagonists? It didn't think it could get any worse than her blind infatuation with him until the ending (in reference to the final chapter). AS SOON AS I read THAT I had had it; I was done with the book, series, and Kailin Gow. It was like Gow had finished a chapter and simply got bored having no intention of seeing the book to its completion. I have another tangent regarding the epilogue but I will simply say that I saw that one coming from miles away. Seeing as it was supposed to shock readers, I feel it belongs on my list of points where Gow failed to add pizazz to her plot; or twists for that matter. So sad, to see such a waste of a publishing company's resources. To my recollection, I have NEVER uncovered a more lazy author than Kailin Gow. Perhaps it is possible her other works are better but I have NO intention of waisting my time with them!! In short, I definitely DO NOT recommend this book! I regret not putting the 90 mins it took me to read the book to better use like scratching a chalkboard or pissing into the wind!!

Glimmerglass by Jenna Black

2011-02-03T23:35:00.002-07:00

5 out of 5 Cents in a Nickel

In all honesty, I didn't expect to even slightly like this book. I had it sitting on my shelf and didn't even consider opening it until I found myself with a four-hour layover alone with Glimmerglass in my carry-on instead of the book I had been meaning to pack. With a dead laptop battery, a dwindling cash supply, and my accursed lack of preparation skills, I was stuck reading Black's Glimmerglass (and boy am I ever glad that I did)!

Much to my surprise, I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!! Dana, a teen with an alcoholic mother goes in search of her never-before-seen father who lives in the mystical land of Avalon (which just happens to be located on some sort of mountain in the middle of Britain). As odd as it may seem, I loved the way Black described Avalon despite it's practical implausibilities. Black's descriptions were enough to make me forget I was sitting in a grimy airport (which is really saying something)!!

I liked the way Dana took charge though I am not certain she thought everything through when she left home and began her international journey to a father who didn't ask any questions. Kimber and Ethan were two of the first friends Dana made in Avalon in the most unconventional of manners. I couldn't stand Ethan (to be honest) but Kimber was another matter entirely. She made up for every mistake her brother made and she made me crave hot posset!!

Finn and Keane were another duo that I really only wanted to like one half of: Finn. Unfortunately, Keane somehow managed to worm his way into my like category and there he remains (and he won't budge no matter how much I beg).

Moving on though, characters were fairly well-rounded in the end. I liked that they were all flawed; no one was truly perfect. Other than the characters and setting, I also liked the plot. I won't give anything away suffice to say, I really did enjoy reading about Dana's exploits in Avalon!

All-in-all, I really liked this book. I think it's worth the read and I am sure when you read the first chapter—and Jenna black has gripped you just the same—you will fall in line behind me for the sequel!!

The Iron Queen by Julie Kagawa

2011-02-03T18:31:00.001-07:00

5 out of 5 Cents in a Nickel

So, yet again I have fallen in love with another one of Julie Kagawa's amazing books. Her unique perspective and creativity when it comes to the fey is remarkable. Anyone who thinks they love paranormal fantasy books (or books of any kind for that matter) is truly missing out if they have not read Kagawa's Iron Fey series!! I am truly shaking in anticipation for the next installment as I am sure thousands of others will agree!

My Soul to Steal by Rachel Vincent

2011-02-03T18:25:00.000-07:00

5 out of 5 Cents in a Nickel

Other than the first book in the series, I would have to say that this edition is my favorite! I absolutely adored Tod in this installment as opposed to all the others. I can clearly see where his character is headed and I truly hope I am not disappointed. Kaylee was my one grievance in this book; I think Tod was right when he talked to her about Nash and Sabine. To avoid any spoilers, I will not say anymore on that subject but I aside from her character, I really loved this book. Overall, thumbs-up to Ms. Vincent on a really well-done sequel and I think I might die waiting for "If I Die..." and all it includes!!!

Shadowspell by Jenna Black

2011-02-03T18:22:00.004-07:00

5 out of 5 Cents in a Nickel

If you loved Glimmerglass, than you'll probably enjoy Shadowspell even more. Dana gets stronger; Keane gets... well, more Keane-ly; and Avalon is in peril once again! Suffice to say, I am absolutely in love with Jenna Black's Faeriewalker series! Though I realize it really contradicts my review, most of her male characters really irked me. Ethan is a total player, Keane is the definition of a "bad boy", her father is controlling/emotionally unattached, and Elkring... well up until the end I really liked him in an "eyes roll back into your skull sort of way". Finn and Kimber made up for every character I didn't like though. Kimber was a wee bit more vulnerable in this installment—without losing that snarky Kimberess that we all know and love—which made me like her even more. Finn, actually came out of his shell a bit and at points he acted more like a paternal figure for Dana (which I think she is in desperate need of). With a few slightly predictable plot twists, and others caught me off guard, I felt that all-in-all, this book was a balanced read that I would be happy to reread at any point in the near future. So in short: read this series, it's definitely worth your time and soon you'll be craving Sirensong's release as much as I am!!

Devoured by Amanda Marrone

2011-02-03T18:20:00.002-07:00

4 out of 5 Cents in a Nickel

I actually really loved this book which came as a surprise to me. Remy really freaked me out in the beginning and lots of the twists were really predictible which is why I demoted this would-be-five-cent book to only four. Still, I liked the plot it was quick and easy. All-in-all, I really enjoyed it! I would definitely recommend it to people who don't mind ghost stories or those who intend to read it in broad daylight!!!

Matched by Allie Condie

2011-02-03T18:17:00.002-07:00

4 out of 5 Cents in a Nickel

Okay, so frankly, I loved this book. I found the beginning a bit slow and events a bit predictable but all-in-all, I didn't mind once I got the heart of the story. I think this book was designed to entice a reader into the series and Ms. Ally Condie has definitely succeeded in pulling me in!! I CANNOT WAIT for the sequel and I am certain it will receive even more praise from me.

My First Post

2011-02-03T18:12:00.000-07:00

So here is my first post on my new blog. I will be sure to add my most recent reviews so you followers can see exactly what I do. I look forward to a lasting relationship with all of you!

Here's to readers everywhere!!