Disorderly Conduct

Summary:

"Battling monsters is a job for heroes. So what do you do when there are none to be found? The story begins with a hydra disguised as an illness that grows two more problems for each one that is conquered. Before long a brain eating zombie emerges that gobbles memories slowly, relentlessly returning to feed over and over. It cannot be killed only endured. A shape shifting demon throws up roadblocks to increase suffering, not content to disguise itself merely as individuals but even taking on the face of an entire title company. Opposing them are people who use humor to fight despair, relationships to forge strength, and compassion to find understanding. The key is not in winning but in accepting the challenge."

Plot: Since it is a Non-Fiction, real life book their isn't really a plot per-say but I was impressed with Paul's ability to take a a sad story and take a humorous twist to it. The only thing would be there were some stories, that although at times funny or tantalizing that could have been left out, due to them either making the story unnecessarily longer or not having a satisfying conclusion, that happened a lot for me.

Character: Paul did an AWESOME job at conveying someone through their personality. Not so much as trying to describe someone through looks and their visual appearance. That approach to a character suited Paul and this story very well.

Pros: Compelling story, funny, while being serious and sad. Great 1st book.

Cons: Some spelling errors, needs to be edited down and I would personally go for a different cover.

Final Thoughts: Wow, I am going to admit, reading this book was a little nerve wrecking for me. It is always nerve wrecking, when I am asked to review a book by the author, cause the fear of what if I actually hate their book, or what if they think I only wrote a nice review cause they gave me a their book. (I never write a nice review because I don't want to hurt the others feelings but still...) So, it made this book a lot more nerve wrecking when the author was someone I actually knew! I mean now there was a lot of pressure. My fear of hating this book was QUICKLY dissipated within the first 20 pages, but then my other fear of being biased rolled in my brain. I will be honest. I have a lot to be biased about I know 3 of  the main characters in the book, one of them being my third cousin. My mom and my aunt, as well as my families business are referenced in this book. So, I had a lot to be biased from. The only thing, it changed it that I was just able to envision the characters THAT much better. I LOVED this book. Trust me, when my mom told me it was about Catherine's Alzheimer's ridden, hoarding cousin and that is was funny... I was skeptical. I mean really, how could that be made funny? Sure enough, I was laughing AND I was crying and sometimes at the same time! And these weren't inner laughs and tears, these were real and out-loud ones. That is something hard to do, especially for a first time author. But, this book was not without its faults... As I said in the cons and plot section. The book needed some editing. Somethings that are at times funny and maybe important to the family in telling a whole story, are not necessary to a reader, to keep the captivated. Although, I was laughing.. I felt I was almost reading the same thing over again. Or if It was truly and REALLY important to the author to keep it in their. Maybe just re-formatting the chapters around. I read this book in PDF form, so that might be different or changed when it comes out in book form.  Overall, I am impressed by the obvious talent for writing that Paul has shown and cannot wait and hope for a 2nd book by him  to come out. Because he has so much potential. I also would recommend this book to anyone who is going through a similar situation, in most definitely will help them cope with something that isn't always sunny.  Also, on a side note, this would make a hilarious dark comedy and someone should definitely look into getting the rights for it as a movie. Just saying...

Disorderly Conduct Is Only Available Right Now Through EReader's 

In The Bloggers Studio Ft. Belle's Bookshelf

In The Bloggers Studio is done every Thursday, and it is where I ask some Random ?'s for Blogger's To Answer, So we Can get to know them better! = )

This Weeks Guest Is....

Belle  from Belle's Bookshelf

Belle is an Australian Blogger, with a wicked awesome Book Blog and a cute feature called Pash,Pick or Pass where she chooses 3 book characters who she would Pick to keep, Have Passionate Affair with or Pass altogether and in the comments bloggers can play along too. Check Her Blog out and Follow her on Twitter (@Bookish_Belle)

1. How do you do it all?! Juggling your life and blogging?
I'll admit I have difficulty with this - blogging takes up A LOT of time. But I enjoy it, so it's worth it. I'm yet to find the perfect balance - if anybody has any advice, I'd be glad to hear it!

                                                                2. What do you do besides reading books and blogging?

I'm a pop culture junkie, so I love reading magazines, surfing the Net and watching TV shows like True Blood, Chuck, Mad Men, Community, 30 Rock, Gossip Girl and Vampire Diaries. I also adore watching movies, whether it be going to the cinema or having a DVD night. I'm a particular fan of trashy '80s and '90s flicks; The Princess Bride, The Breakfast Club, Sixteen Candles, Clueless and Heathers are some of my faves. Aside from being entertained, I love spending time with my fiance, friends and family!

3. How did you become a book blogger?
I'd been toying with the idea of blogging for awhile, although I wasn't really aware of any book blogs aside from Forever Young Adult. Then when I found myself in a bit of a reading slump, I thought that blogging about books might inspire me to make the time to read, plus help me to keep track of the books I came across. I also hoped to connect with other book lovers - little did I know what a wonderful reading community I'd find! In terms of actually creating my blog, I'd probably been thinking about it for a couple of weeks, and then I read a book that made me soooo angry I just had to express my feelings - and my first post was born!

4. If there was a book about your life what would it be called?

Hmmm, that's such a tough question. Maybe... The Inner Workings of a Chronic Over-thinker. Not very catchy, is it? 

                  5. Do you have a book-ish quirk that some people might find weird? (Usually, people who don't read find it more weird)

Well, I love to smell books! Old, new, glossy, matte - I'm compelled to sniff those pages! My fiance thinks that it's super weird and shakes his head whenever I pick up a new book and take a whiff - especially if we're in the middle of a bookstore when I do it. He just doesn't understand!

           6. If you could swap lives with one person,place or thing for one day, who or what; and why?

I'd want to swap places with Emma Stone, because I think she's totally awesome, has the coolest friends and is rumoured to be dating Andrew Garfield and/or Ryan Gosling. I'd makeout with either of those boys (or both!).

7. What book to movie adaption is your favorite and what is your least favorite?

My favourite would definitely be The Princess Bride by William Goldman. It's my all-time fave movie and one of my top five books; each is brilliant individually but they're both also great in relation to each other. Goldman wrote the screenplay for the movie, so it makes sense that it's an awesome adaptation!
When it comes to my least favourite, the first one that springs to mind is the 2005 Pride and Prejudice adaptation starring Keira Knightley. I know a lot of people love it, but it was just NOT Pride and Prejudice to me.

8. If you could eat one thing for the rest of your life, what would it be?
It's a toss up between sushi or ice-cream. Sushi probably has more nutritional value, so I guess I'd lean towards that.

                                                                   9. What is the weirdest dream that you have had? 

I once had a dream that my dad murdered my mum by hitting her over the head with a block of cheese. I found it hard to look at cheddar the same way for about a month. Or my dad, for that matter (though he's totally not the murderous type!).

10. Favorite Color and Least Favorite Color?
My favourite colour is pink! As Shelby says in Steel Magnolias, "Pink is my signature colour." 
As for my least favourite... You know when you paint, and wash your paint brush in a glass of water between colours, and after a while the water turns a yucky, murky colour? That's my least favourite.

11. If you could live anywhere, where would you live and why?

My favourite city in the world is probably Paris. It's just absolutely beautiful. If only I could speak the language! I'd also like to live in London, because I love the history and culture of the place. It'd also be great to be so close to Europe and be able to travel there with relative ease! (Relative to the 24-hour-plus trip it currently takes to get there from Australia).

                                                               12. What book character have you related to most?
This is such a difficult question! Growing up, I think the one I was drawn to most, because I saw myself in her a little, was probably Anne Shirley from Anne of Green Gables. The red hair, freckles, love of books, clumsiness, passion and slight weirdness were all things I could (and can still) relate to.

13. Book you feel everyone MUST read..

The Book Thief by Markus Zusak. It's beautiful, stunning, amazing... I can't rave about it enough. It's set in Nazi Germany during World War II and narrated by Death, which is not something I thought I'd enjoy at all, but the language is so lovely and the characters are all so wonderful, it's not as morbid as it sounds! I treasure it.

Say the first thing that comes to your mind when you read this word...

Rock - And Roll

Social - Network

Halloween - Party

Box - Car

Woof - Howl

Big - Tom Hanks

Heart - Soul

That Concludes this weeks In The Bloggers Studio, Thank You Belle for stopping and I will see you all Next Week!

Want Want Want Wednesday (22)

Where I take inspiration on other Wednesday Pining for Wanting Books and turn it into Want Want Want Wednesday. Zero Restrictions. Join Me?

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer By Michelle Hodkin

"Mara Dyer doesn't believe life can get any stranger than waking up in a hospital with no memory of how she got there. It can.                                                                                                                                                
She believes there must be more to the accident she can't remember that killed her friends and left her strangely unharmed. There is.                                                                                                    

She doesn't believe that after everything she's been through, she can fall in love. She's wrong."

Basically, All I have heard since forever is how freaking awesome this book is, and even more this week! So, I guess I should start taking everyone's hullabaloo seriously and get this book!

Misguided Angel (Blue Bloods Series, Book 5) By Melissa De La Cruz 

"After inheriting the dark Van Alen Legacy, Schuyler fled to Florence--with her forbidden love, Jack. Now the two of them must embark on the mission Schuyler was destined to complete: to find and protect the seven gates that guard earth from Lucifer, lord of the Silverbloods.


As the Blue Blood enclave weakens yet further, fate leads Schuyler closer to a terrifying crossroads--and a choice that will determine the destiny of all vampires."

I am OBSESSED with this series and cannot wait to read the next book in the series which is Misguided Angel.

Easily Amused By Karen McQuestion 

"When twenty-nine-year-old Lola Watson unexpectedly inherits a rambling house in the suburbs, she thinks it just may be the cherry on a banner year. After all, she’s happily single, with fabulous friends and her dream job working at a popular magazine. Life is perfect—until her new neighbors make her their new “project,” a heartbroken high school friend crashes indefinitely at her house, and her younger sister announces she’s getting married…on Lola’s thirtieth birthday. Suddenly Lola’s not so keen on her newfound domestic bliss. But when she meets handsome, mysterious Ryan Moriarty, Lola dares to hope she’s found the perfect guy to one-up her sister and add a little spice back into her life.

This light-hearted romantic comedy from Karen McQuestion is headlined by a charming cast of characters, led by the self-deprecatingly funny Lola. Breezy and fun, Easily Amusedserves as a gentle, often amusing reminder that love can often be found in the place we least expect—under our very noses."

After reading Favorite and A Scattered Life By Karen McQuestion and falling in love with both books, I have been wanting to read some of her other books and Easily amused looks like to perfect book to begin with!

Ten Ten Tuesday : Books I Want To Re-Read

Hosted Every Tuesday By The Brooke and The Bookish

1. The Harry Potter Series

2. Elixir By Hilary Duff

3. Mick Harte Was Here By Barbara Park

4. Eclipse By Stephenie Meyer

5. Pride and Prejudice By Jane Austen

That is really all I can think of  =/

The Arranger

Summary:

"The year is 2023 and ex-detective Lara Evans is working as a freelance paramedic in a bleak new world. She responds to an emergency call and is nearly killed when a shooter flees the home. Inside she finds the federal employment commissioner wounded, but she’s able to save his life. The next day Lara leaves for the Gauntlet—a national competition of intense physical and mental challenges with high stakes for her home state. She spots the assailant lurking at the arena and soon after, she lands in deep trouble. Who is the mysterious killer and what is motivating him? Can Lara stop him, stay alive, and win the Gauntlet?"

Plot: At first I wasn't too sure about the plot, but as I began reading I found myself enjoy it, the plot is simple yet complex and kept me intrigued the whole time.

Characters: I loved Lara she was a great character and in many ways reminded me of my Mom, Paul annoyed me a lot at first but I soon understood his character and his state of mind, and is use to the story, which to me made him less annoying in that sense and very realistic.

Pros: A nice adult crime novel, not an overly complex read and an interesting take on our possible future.

Cons: Some spelling errors, needs new summary and cover.

Final Thoughts: At first I wasn't too sure about this book, but my mind was soon changed. The only thing that is hard for me is going from reading a lot of YA based novels and then transitioning to an "Adult" book. I have to get an a more serious mode, which can take me awhile, which makes it harder for me to get into, but once I saw where the story was heading, I was impressed and interested in the story. I also found LJ Sellers take on futuristic America to be very intriguing, although I did not agree with everything is is very plausable outcome to our society. For those who like a crime,mystery novel this book will satisfy your needs.

This book was Provided to me By The Author LJ Sellers, So I would like to Thank Her for the chance to read and review her book. Again THANK YOU!

Book Tour: Frost

Summary:

"Leena Thomas’s senior year at boarding school starts with a cruel shock: Frost House, the cozy Victorian dorm where she and her best friends chose to live, has been assigned an unexpected roommate—confrontational, eccentric Celeste Lazar.
What Celeste lacks in social grace, however, her brother, David, a recent transfer student, makes up for in good looks and charm. But while he and Leena hit it off immediately, Leena finds herself struggling to balance her growing attraction with her fear of getting hurt.
As classes get under way, strange happenings begin to bedevil Frost House—frames mys-teriously falling off walls, doors locking by themselves, furniture toppling over. Celeste blames the housemates, convinced they want to scare her into leaving. And while Leena tries to play peacekeeper between her best friends and new roommate, soon the mysterious happenings in the dorm, an intense triangle between Leena, Celeste, and David, and the reawakening of childhood fears all push Leena to take increasingly desperate measures to feel safe. But does the threat lie with her new roommate, within Leena’s own mind . . . or in Frost House itself?"

Plot: The plot itself had a lot to work with, I mean it sounds like a straight up perfect scenario for a horror/psychological thriller movie. The writing had all the makings of it too, the build up was great, but the ending was quite anti-climatic.

Characters: I felt the only real character build up was focused on Leena,Celeste and David and even then the characters lacked enough depth. The author touched the surface, but missed in opportunity to give her characters more dimension.

Pros: Captivating read, a REAL girl character (she wasn't too big or too beautiful, she wasn't too insecure or an overachiever) she was real and normal. Lots of potential. Good Writing.

Cons: Anti-Climatic Ending, unnecessary political stabs, unnecessary characters.

Final Thoughts: I received this book at 3 pm on Wednesday... Began reading at like 7pm and was up reading it till 5AM (with breaks in between) Then Thursday I began reading at 11pm and finished at 2:30AM.

Meaning I was ENTHRALLED in this book. The build up was REALLY nice and had me waiting for that big finish, but then all of a sudden I realize I am at pg. 350 out of 400 and we are still in the middle of build up.. which leaves only 50 pages left to wrap the book up. I feel that this is almost never a good sign in a book. Cause usually you are not going to get the result you were hoping for and that was what happened. I enjoyed the book and thought it was GOOD but it could of been GREAT had the ending been tweaked and maybe just added a little more creep factor. Although it was a nice mild thriller. The other thing that bothered me was the need for the character Kate. Who is suppose to be the girls BFF, and was rooming with Leena, second semester, but then Celeste happens and blah blah blah. Honestly. I felt Kate was just an un-needed excuse for the plot line, which could have worked with out her. She is briefly mentioned like 3 times in the book and makes a short appearance as an actual character, but even then I felt she was only used to make some sense of her character/ She doesn't even show up in the end. Really just not needed. I also would have felt worse for Leena had her other friends characters been developed more. Now, don't get me wrong the book is a good first attempt at a book and you will more then likely enjoy the book, I just feel that it had way more potential, or better yet the author had way more potential in her writing skills.

I was graciously allowed to be apparent of this Book Tour through Amber at Me, My Shelf and I.

Other Participants and Their Reviews

Cici's Books

The Reading Fever

Hippies,Beauty and Books

Me,My Shelf and I (well of course)

Frost Was Released on September 13th, 2011

Want Want Want Wednesday (21)

Want Want Want Wednesday is Hosted Almost Every Wednesday By Moi! 

It is where I share usually 3 book, that I REALLLLYYY Want! It is my more relaxed version of other similar memes/features like this = ) Feel free to join me.

I probably should make a button for this...

The Name of a Star By Maureen Johnson

"The day Louisiana teenager Rory Deveaux arrives in London marks a memorable occasion. For Rory, it's the start of a new life at a London boarding school. But for many, this will be remembered as the day a series of brutal murders broke out across the city, gruesome crimes mimicking the horrific Jack the Ripper events of more than a century ago.

Soon "Rippermania" takes hold of modern-day London, and the police are left with few leads and no witnesses. Except one. Rory spotted the man police believe to be the prime suspect. But she is the only one who saw him. Even her roommate, who was walking with her at the time, didn't notice the mysterious man. So why can only Rory see him? And more urgently, why has Rory become his next target? In this edge-of-your-seat thriller, full of suspense, humor, and romance, Rory will learn the truth about the secret ghost police of London and discover her own shocking abilities."

 I have heard beyond awesome things about this book and lets be honest.. Maureen Johnson is a rockstar author. I am so stoked to read this book! Espescially, with my obsession with historical things and oh you know, my major being forensic psychology... meaning I like learning murder types things. So it is always fun, when things like this take on a new persona,adaption, idea... etc.

  Once Every Never By Lesley Livingston

"Clarinet Reid is a pretty typical teenager. On the surface. She’s smart, but a bit of slacker; outgoing, but just a little insecure; not exactly a mischief-maker … but trouble tends to find her wherever she goes. Also? She unwittingly carries a centuries-old Druid Blood Curse running through her veins.
Now, with a single thoughtless act, what started off as the Summer Vacation in Dullsville suddenly spirals into a deadly race to find a stolen artifact, avert an explosive catastrophe, save a Celtic warrior princess, right a dreadful wrong that happened centuries before Clare was even born, and if there’s still time— literally—maybe even get a date.
This is the kind of adventure that happens to a girl once every … never."

 So, Pam from Bookaliscious mentioned on twitter recently that there are a lot of Greek Mythology books, but that there should be more Celtic Mythology books, which I agreed, and then she showed me this book! I am huge on supporting my Celtic, Irish Background, and would love to explore a new theme in reading.


The Art Of Racing In The Rain By Garth Stien

"If you've ever wondered what your dog is thinking, Stein's third novel offers an answer. Enzo is a lab terrier mix plucked from a farm outside Seattle to ride shotgun with race car driver Denny Swift as he pursues success on the track and off. Denny meets and marries Eve, has a daughter, Zoë, and risks his savings and his life to make it on the professional racing circuit. Enzo, frustrated by his inability to speak and his lack of opposable thumbs, watches Denny's old racing videos, coins koanlike aphorisms that apply to both driving and life, and hopes for the day when his life as a dog will be over and he can be reborn a man. When Denny hits an extended rough patch, Enzo remains his most steadfast if silent supporter. Enzo is a reliable companion and a likable enough narrator, though the string of Denny's bad luck stories strains believability. Much like Denny, however, Stein is able to salvage some dignity from the over-the-top drama."

 This is a book I have heard some good buzz about and there is something about the cover the make me love it! I also, think the plot of the book seems to be new and fresh.. at least I hope it will be. 

Top Ten Tuesday: Books I Feel EVERYONE Has Read But Me

Hosted Every Tuesday But The Broke and The Bookish

These are all the books that I feel everyone has read but me and I am really really jealous of everyone who actual has!

1. Anna and The French Kiss By Stephanie Perkins

2. The Hunger Games Series By Suzanne Collins

3. The Iron Fey Series By Julie Kawaga

4. Daughter of Smoke and Bone By Laini Taylor 

5. Ruby Red By Kerstin Gier

6. Wolves of Mercy Falls Series By Maggie Stiefvater

7. The Girl In The Steel Corset By Kady Cross

8. Beauty Queens By Libba Bray

9. The Girl Who Kicked The Hornets Nest By Stieg Larsson

10. The Goddess Test By Aimee Carter

Elixir By Hilary Duff Giveaway Winner

Congrats! Again Winner has 48 hours to E-mail me with their Information.

THANK YOU ALL FOR PARTICIPATING!!!

100 YA Books

So, I don't have anything exciting to post this Saturday and I stumbled across this fun little thing on Erica from The Book Cellar 's Blog and decided I would do this, since I have never seen a Young Adults Version.



Bold  = I've read it
Italic = I own it but haven't read it

1. Alex Finn – Beastly
2. Alice Sebold – The Lovely Bones
3. Ally Carter – Gallagher Girls (1, 2, 3, 4)
4. Ally Condie – Matched
5. Alyson Noel – The Immortals (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6)
6. Anastasia Hopcus – Shadow Hills
7. Angie Sage – Septimus Heap (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6)
8. Ann Brashares – The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (1, 2, 3, 4)
9. Anna Godbersen – Luxe (1, 2, 3, 4)
10. Anthony Horowitz – Alex Rider (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9)
11. Aprilynne Pike – Wings (1, 2, 3)
12. Becca Fitzpatrick – Hush, Hush (1, 2)
13. Brandon Mull – Fablehaven (1, 2, 3, 4, 5)
14. Brian Selznick – The Invention of Hugo Cabret
15. Cassandra Clare – The Mortal Instruments (1, 2, 3, 4) Again, need to read 3 and 4
16. Carrie Jones – Need (1, 2, 3)
17. Carrie Ryan – The Forest of Hands and Teeth (1, 2, 3)
18. Christopher Paolini - Inheritance (1, 2, 3, 4)
19. Cinda Williams Chima – The Heir Chronicles (1, 2, 3)
20. Colleen Houck – Tigers Saga (1, 2)
21. Cornelia Funke – Inkheart (1, 2, 3)
22. Ellen Hopkins – Impulse
23. Eoin Colfer – Artemis Fowl (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7)
24. Faraaz Kazi – Truly, Madly, Deeply
25. Frank Beddor – The Looking Glass Wars (1, 2, 3)
26. Gabrielle Zevin – Elsewhere
27. Gail Carson Levine – Fairest
28. Holly Black – Tithe (1, 2, 3) Read 1, and own the others
29. J.K. Rowling – Harry Potter (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7)
30. James Dashner – The Maze Runner (1, 2)
31. James Patterson – Maximum Ride (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7)
32. Jay Asher – Thirteen Reasons Why
33. Jeanne DuPrau – Books of Ember (1, 2, 3, 4)
34. Jeff Kinney – Diary of a Wimpy Kid (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6)
35. John Boyne – The Boy in the Striped Pajamas
36. John Green – An Abundance of Katherines
37. John Green – Looking for Alaska
38. John Green – Paper Towns
39. Jonathan Stroud – Bartimaeus (1, 2, 3, 4)
40. Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl – Caster Chronicles (1, 2)
41. Kelley Armstrong – Darkest Powers (1, 2, 3)
42. Kristin Cashore – The Seven Kingdoms (1, 2)
43. Lauren Kate – Fallen (1, 2, 3)
44. Lemony Snicket - Series of Unfortunate Events (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13)
45. Libba Bray – Gemma Doyle (1, 2, 3)
46. Lisa McMann – Dream Catcher (1, 2, 3)
47. Louise Rennison – Confessions of Georgia Nicolson (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10)
48. M.T. Anderson – Feed
49. Maggie Stiefvater – The Wolves of Mercy Falls (1, 2, 3)
50. Margaret Peterson Haddix – Shadow Children (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7)
51. Maria V. Snyder – Study (1, 2, 3)
52. Markus Zusak - The Book Thief
53. Markus Zusak – I am the Messenger
54. Mark Haddon – The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time
55. Mary Ting – Crossroads
56. Maureen Johnson – Little Blue Envelope (1, 2)
57. Meg Cabot – All-American Girl (1, 2)
58. Meg Cabot – The Mediator (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6)
59. Meg Cabot – The Princess Diaries (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10)
60. Meg Rosoff – How I live now
61. Megan McCafferty – Jessica Darling (1, 2, 3, 4, 5)
62. Megan Whalen Turner – The Queen’s Thief (1, 2, 3, 4)
63. Melina Marchetta – On the Jellicoe Road
64. Melissa de la Cruz – Blue Bloods (1, 2, 3, 4, 5)
65. Melissa Marr – Wicked Lovely (1, 2, 3, 4, 5)
66. Michael Grant – Gone (1, 2, 3, 4)
67. Nancy Farmer – The House of the Scorpion
68. Neal Shusterman – Unwind
69. Neil Gaiman – Coraline
70. Neil Gaiman – Stardust
71. Neil Gaiman – The Graveyard Book
72. P.C. Cast & Kristin Cast – House of Night (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 )
73. Philip Pullman – His Dark Materials (1, 2, 3)
74. Rachel Caine – The Morganville Vampires (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10)
75. Rachel Cohn & David Levithan – Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist
76. Richelle Mead – Vampire Academy (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6)
77. Rick Riordan – Percy Jackson and the Olympians (1, 2, 3, 4, 5)
78. Rom LcO’Feer – Somewhere carnal over 40 winks
79. S.L. Naeole – Grace (1, 2, 3, 4)
80. Sabrina Bryan & Julia DeVillers – Princess of Gossip
81. Sarah Dessen – Along for the Ride
82. Sarah Dessen – Lock and Key
83. Sarah Dessen – The Truth about Forever
84. Sara Shepard – Pretty Little Liars (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9)
85. Scott Westerfeld - Leviathan (1, 2)
86. Scott Westerfeld - Uglies (1, 2, 3)
87. Shannon Hale – Books of a Thousand Days
88. Shannon Hale – Princess Academy
89. Shannon Hale – The Books of Bayern (1, 2, 3, 4)
90. Sherman Alexie & Ellen Forney – The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian
91. Simone Elkeles – Perfect Chemistry (1, 2, 3)
92. Stephanie Meyer – The Host
93. Stephanie Meyer – Twilight Saga (1, 2, 3, 4)
94. Sue Monk Kidd – The Secret Life of Bees
95. Susan Beth Pfeffer – Last Survivors (1, 2, 3)
96. Suzanne Collins – Hunger Games (1, 2, 3)
97. Suzanne Collins – Underland Chronicles (1, 2, 3, 4, 5)
98. Terry Pratchett – Tiffany Aching (1, 2, 3, 4)
99. Tonya Hurley – Ghost Girl (1, 2, 3) I've only read the first 2
100. Wendelin Van Draanen – Flipped

In Other News, Today I get to go to Disneyland with My Fiance, His Mom and Her Friend Jen. Which is EXCITING , cause in case you couldn't tell I LOVE DISNEY and Disneyland.


Also, Today is Your Last Day To Enter the Elixir By Hilary Duff Giveaway Which Ends at Midnight!

The Van Alen Legacy (Book 4, Blue Bloods)

Summary:

"With the stunning revelation surrounding Bliss's true identity comes the growing threat of the sinister Silver Bloods. Once left to live the glamorous life in New York City, the Blue Bloods now find themselves in an epic battle for survival. Not to worry, love is still in the air for the young vampires of the Upper East Side. Or is it? Jack and Schuyler are over. Oliver's brokenhearted. And only the cunning Mimi seems to be happily engaged."

Plot: As with Revelations this books plot was a lot more slower paced writing wise and was definitely building up to more epic-ness to come. The one thing that is nice is De La Cruz always answers a question, while still leaving a plot line.

Characters: The characters developed quite nicely in this book, Book 4 gives them a lot more depth.

Pros: Questions are answered while still having momentum for the next book.

Cons: The Gabrielle / Lucifer thing really bothered me, and the book was a little too slow I think

Final Thoughts: This wasn't my favorite book in the series and I know that a lot of people stopped reading after this book and I could kind of see why, since the pace was definitely slowed down and this time I don't think De La Cruz could bring the tempo up in time, for the spots that needed it. Although, I feel there is a lot of potential for the next books in the series to be amazeballs. The other thing I heard people complain about were the separation in narrative between characters as chapters. This didn't really bother me, since the books already loosely followed that type of narration. And I felt it suited this book better since they aren't all in the same cities in this book for the most part. Overall, this book was not memorable, I mean I finished reading this Wednesday and there were more things for Pros and Cons but I can't even remember them now, cause like I said not the most memorable book in the series. I hope Book 5 sweeps me of my feet again.

In The Bloggers Studio Ft. Makeshift Bookmark's Jen

In The Bloggers Studio is done every Thursday, and it is where I ask some Random ?'s for Blogger's To Answer, So we Can get to know them better! = )

 This Weeks Guest is...

Jen From Makeshift Bookmark!

If you guys don't know Jen and her blog I suggest you do! Jen is a talented blogger, whose bubbly personality and hilarious sense of humor come through in her posts. Being as busy as she is, it is a miracle she finds time to keep up the blog while making us all laugh on twitter. (@makeshiftjen)

How did you start blogging?

This is going to sound absolutely nuts, but I used to creep on bloggers all the time. Like, read their sites everyday and was FASCINATED that they had so much to say about books. (Namely The Story Siren and Good Books & Good Wine.) They did videos and reviews and hilarious posts and I was in awe of what a fabulous community it was. I wrote some reviews on GoodReads and thought that'd be enough, but NAY. It wasn't. I needed to infiltrate the blogging community and make my own space. It was scary at first because I had the "omg everyone hates me" syndrome, but it was actually a really great experience.

 

Did anyone think you were crazy to start blogging?

Not really. But not maybe people know about it. I try to keep my personal life and blog life relatively divided. Just close friends and family. And my husband. I work second shift, so he sends me photos of the books I get in the mail and laughs at me when I text him back ecstatic keysmashes.

 

When did you discover your love for books? 

I read a lot as a kid. I loved the Babysitter's Club books and Goosebumps. OH, and Fear Street. Those books pretty much dominated my preteen years. I stopped reading from about 1998 - 2008. It's good to be back.

 

Do you have any weird talents or quirks?

I can touch my tongue to my nose.

 

What is your biggest bookish pet peeve? 

Lack of chemistry. WHERE IS THE EFFING SPARK? How am I supposed to believe that you're in love when your cheesy, forced interactions make me want to gouge out my eyes and sell them on the black market?

 

One book you could ALWAYS read?

 

Twilight. Nope. I'm not over it yet.

 

How does Mr. Jen, feel about Your Blogging Success and popularity?

Well there's not too much blogging success and popularity to talk about, but I do keep him informed :) He's supportive of it and that's pretty awesome. But I still don't think he "gets" it.

 

Why did you decided to become a Nurse?

When my great-uncle was in the hospital with lung cancer, the nurses treated my family like crap. It was infuriating. I am going to be the supportive, empathetic nurse. Just to prove that they're not all bitter, hateful people.

 

When you were little what did want to be when you grew up? 

Astronaut. I was going to live on Saturn.

 

What Author do you wish you were BFF's with? 

Jeri Smith-Ready. Wicked taste in music and I would totally make her write me into her books as a ghost so Logan and I could be together forever.

 

Do you have a favorite local bookstore? 

I have many. There used to be 3 Borders (RIP). Now we have two Half Price Books, a Books a Million and like 3 Barnes & Nobles within about 30 minutes of my house. People in Kentucky READ, y'all!

 

What is your favorite holiday and do you go crazy when it comes to decorating for the holidays?

Thanksgiving. I practice eating in preparation for it. Not so much with the decorating. I'm way too busy (see: lazy) for that.

 

What is your guilty pleasure?

Britney Spears' music. God, I love that crazy woman.

 

How many pets do you own and what are their names?

2 cats, Bo and Bella. They're everything to me. If I'm this crazy about my cats, I'm quite afraid to have children.

 

If a genie granted you 3 wishes, what would those wishes be?

Teleportation. Flight, just for kicks. MORE WISHES.

 

What book have you read recently, that you didn't end up liking? 

Fateful. I just didn't BELIEVE in the book.

 

 

The Next part is to answer the first thing that comes to you mind when you see these words...

 

 

Beach - Sand

Elf - Cookies

Love - Game (Lady Gaga!)

Kangaroo - Pouch           

Pink - underwear

MAC - truck (I'm so not a girly girl)

Grapes - wine

Italy - Pauly D

Besides Cracking Me Up Throughout this whole Questionnaire my favorite answer by is her Italy, Pauly D - Jersey Shore Connection.. Oh this girl!

Alright, Well That Concludes This Weeks In The Bloggers Studio, Thank You Jen Very Much and I will See You All Again; Next Thursday!

In My Mailbox (17)

Hosted By The Story Siren

Bought

Blue Bloods Box Set (Blue Bloods, Masquerade,Revelations) By Melissa De La Cruz

The Van Alen Legacy By Melissa De La Cruz

Revelations (Book 3, Blue Bloods)

Summary:

"Have you ever wondered what secrets lurk behind the closed doors of New York City's wealthiest families? They're powerful, they're famous... they're undead. Schuyler Van Alen's blood legacy has just been called into question--is the young vampire in fact a Blue Blood, or is it the sinister Silver Blood that runs through her veins? As controversy swirls, Schuyler is left stranded in the Force household, trapped under the same roof as her cunning nemesis, Mimi Force, and her forbidden crush, Jack Force. When one of the Gates of Hell is breached by Silver Bloods in Rio de Janeiro, however, the Blue Bloods will need Schuyler on their side. The stakes are high; the battle is bloody; and through it all, Carnavale rages on. And in the end, one vampire's secret identity will be exposed in a revelation that shocks everyone."

Plot: This plot was a lot slower paced then the first 2 books (Blue Bloods and Masquerade) which were way more action packed and quick paced that made your head spin and your pulse race. So, at first the slower pace of this book was a little abrupt to me, since I was still on a high from Masquerade, but I found the plot to be just what I needed. It gave you all the answers you needed then, you didn't have to wait till the VERY last book to get all the answers. Then in the last 50 pages the book goes from 20mph to 100mph in a second and leaves your brain numb.

Characters: You learn a lot about the characters in this book, but it is always hard to understand them completely cause no one is always who they seem to be, especially with all their past lives. I still find it hard to like Mimi given her character is so unlikeable, but De La Cruz does a great job at "humanizing" her.  Jack is very swoonworthy but frustrating and Oliver... I go from liking him, to finding him whiny. He needs to grow a pair.

Pros: Book 3 is fresh and new while staying true to the core of the series.

Cons: OK, I am actually annoyed with how Michael, the Archangel.. pure of heart is portrayed as rather secretive,self involved and deceitful. It just doesn't add up and I hope will be explained or disproved in the next books. It is just something that has bothered me from book 1.

Final Thoughts: This series just doesn't seize to amaze me. De La Cruz is an awesome writer and story teller. I find the idea of the series as a whole, so fresh and new and I am surprised it does not have as much acclaim as Harry Potter or Twilight. I hope that the series continues on to impress me. I feel that Revelations most likely won't be the most memorable books of the series, but was definitely needed in telling the story as a whole. Even though I just finished the 3rd book of the series, I highly suggest you read them. I will say though that the ending was so mind blowing that I will have to take a very short break before reading Book 4; The Van Alen Legacy.

Cross My Heart and Hope To Spy

Summary:

 "After staking out, obtaining, and then being forced to give up her first boyfriend, Josh, all Cammie Morgan wants is a peaceful semester. But that's easier said than done when you're a CIA legacy and go to the premier school in the world . . . for spies.

 Cammie may have a genius I.Q., but there are still a lot of things she doesn't know. Like, will her ex-boyfriend even remember she exists? And how much trouble is she really in after what happened last semester? And most of all, why is her mother acting so strangely?

 

Despite Cammie's best intentions to be a normal student, danger seems to follow her. She and her friends learn that their school is going to play host to some mysterious guests--code name: Blackthorne. Then she's blamed for a security breach that leaves the school's top secret status at risk.

 

Soon, Cammie and her friends are crawling through walls and surveilling the school to learn the truth about Blackthorne and clear Cammie's name. Even though they have confidence in their spy skills, this time the targets are tougher (and hotter), and the stakes for Cammie's heart--and her beloved school--are higher than ever."

Plot: I really enjoyed this plot, it brought a whole new fresh and exciting feel to the book, while still remaining young and appropriate. Although, I would have like the ideas to have been switched between the 1st book and this one, but you can't help and swoon at Spies in Training Boys and Spies in Training girls, getting together and challenging each other.

Characters: The wasn't too much character development. In general, everyone is the same but you do see an even more vunerable side of Cammie and her life as a spy in training, as well as having Spy friends and family members. Trust takes on a whole new meaning.

Pros: Age Appropriate, fun, girly, quirky.

Cons: There is this one point in the book where they are at a dance and I felt in this moment which was rather embarrassing for Cammie that the writing just fell through.

Final Thoughts: Like I said the plot is very exciting and eventful, but what I REALLY love about this series is it verges on being middle grade and Young adult and I feel it is a prefect series to give my 11 year old cousin who doesn't really enjoy reading, because it isn't a difficult book, it is easy to read and easy to like and even with the spy element it is relate-able to girls. I also like that you don't HAVE to read book 1 cause it is shortly summarized in this book. (although you should read the 1st book). I am not dying the read the next book in the series, but I will enjoy reading it when I get around to it.

In The Bloggers Studio Ft. Bookaliscious

This is the Beginning of a Blog I am going to do every Thursday  called In The Bloggers Studio (get it?) where I will ask some of My Favorite Bloggers random question so That we can get to know them better!

The Blogger who will be kicking this blog off is Pam From Bookaliscious!

Pam is all sorts of awesome! Really. If these questions don't prove it, then you need to start reading her blog, following her on twitter(@bookalisciouspam) or and maybe watch her YouTube Musical Debut .

How did you begin Blogging?

I read Inkheart and wanted someone to talk to about it. Then I thought, oh oh I will make a blog about books. I then later found out there were a few bloggers already doing that. I will never forget asking them what an ARC was :)

Did you ever think your blog would be as big as it is?

I don't consider my blog really huge. I like I am now. I have been working hard on Bookalicious for three years solid, and I hope that shows.

When did you discover your love for reading?

When I was in first grade and we made a trip to the library where the librarian read me The Wild Swans. I fell completely in love with the story and the rest of the tales, I last year found the EXACT copy that the librarian read to me for my children.

How do you find the time to blog and read books, while being a Mother and Wife?

One kid goes to school, the other to daycare. I streamline my cleaning in the morning, I do the same one hour routine Mon-Fri and add in laundry and minute cleaning like baseboard washing on the weekend. My husband is a fantastic chef so he cooks. We generally don't watch television but recently we do watch one episode of either Torchwood or Doctor Who at night. After that I read for two hours.


What is Your Blogging Pet Peeve?

For me it is remembering when to post for book tours. I am really incredibly bad at that.


What Is Your Reading Pet Peeve?

When the author's name or book title is at the bottom right of the page and every time I read it as part of the text. It is jarring.

Favorite Color?

Light blue.

If you could choose one book to read for the rest of your life, what book would it be?

This answer would change almost yearly but right now The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson.

Are there any books you absolutely despise?

Yes, Jennifer's Body. 

What is your biggest fear?

Spider's I think. I can handle anything but spiders.

If you could 3 bookish people, who would they be and what would you guys do?

I think Shanyn from Chick Loves Lit, Maureen Johnson and John Green. We would make the most epic vlog ever made.


Tell us why Hicklebee's is SO awesome and how did you discover Hicklebee's?

Hicklebee's was founded the year I was born which obviously was the best year in history. They have a fantastic children's museum inside their kids only store and the store is so colorful and magical on the inside. The owner is a picture book author herself and knows how to put on a great event. I found them via two employees who kept showing up at the same bookish events I was attending and we always ended up in the signing line together. It was kismet. 




When you are not blogging or doing anything book related, What are you doing?

I am painting horrid pottery or playing blocks with my toddler. I am traveling and being a SAH tourist, and taking classes on jewelry making or how to cook Egyptian food.


Favorite Actor and Actress?

Actor: (again this changes yearly) John Barrowman

Actress: Always has and will forever be Juliet Styles.


Least Favorite Actor/ Actress?

Actor: Steve Buscemi

Actress: Juliet Lewis


Book that everyone must read RIGHT now?

As soon as it comes out: SHATTER ME by Tareheh Mafi

Most recent book that you expected to love but ended up not impressing you?

Shadowfever by Karen Moning, I didn't even finish it.

Favorite Holiday?

Halloween!

Guilty Pleasure?

                                      Dutch licorice. 

Say the first thing the comes to your mind when you see these words.

                                                                      Love - Marco

Music- Gorgeous

Fire - Hot

Book - Love

Dog - Jackie

Rainbow - So Intense

Travel- Always

Police - Safe

President - Obama

Up- Down

And That Concludes This Week's In The Bloggers Studio, Thank You Again Pam and See You All Next Thursday!