The Wednesday Sisters (Wednesdays #1)

Easily Amused

Summary:

"Twenty-nine year-old Lola Watson has two best friends, a dream job editing a parenting magazine, and a charming old house inherited from a great-aunt she barely knew. Life would be perfect if only she could avoid her intrusive neighbors. And for that matter, she also wouldn't mind being happily married like her friend Piper, or even engaged like her younger sister Mindy. 
Lola's peaceful existence is shattered when high school buddy Hubert moves in with her after a break-up, her sister changes her wedding date to Lola's thirtieth birthday, and the nosy neighbors take Hubert under their wing. Life gets more complicated when Piper sets Lola up with a good-looking stranger who turns out to be the talk of her neighborhood--the mystery man from across the street."

Plot: The plot itself is not that original, but it is strongly written and reads like a typical romantic comedy. I found myself going through the characters emotions and enjoying their journey.

Characters: I adored Lola, she honestly reminded me a lot of my mom. She prefers to keep to herself and has her close friends. So I could totally she where Lola was coming from. I liked the neighbors and how they each had their own part in the story. I would have liked to have seen more of that, as well as Lola's aunts story. Hubert was sweet, but honestly I didn't like him and I ended up really liking Ryan.. well you know.. till the predictable part. I would have liked of that part had changed.

Final Thoughts: This was by far one of my favorite books of McQuestion's and in my opinion her strongest written book yet. It is a great bedside book and it perfect for women of all ages. Rom-Com Chick Lit at its finest.

How Lucky You Are

Summary:

"In the tradition of Emily Giffin and Marisa de los Santos, HOW LUCKY YOU ARE is an engaging and moving novel about three women struggling to keep their longstanding friendship alive. Waverly, who's always been the group's anchor, runs a cozy bakery but worries each month about her mounting debt. Kate is married to a man who's on track to be the next governor of Virginia, but the larger questions brewing in their future are unsettling her. Stay-at-home mom Amy has a perfect life on paper, but as the horrific secret she's keeping from her friends threatens to reveal itself, she panics. 
As life's pressures build all around them, Waverly knows she has some big decisions to make. In doing so, she will discover that the lines between loyalty and betrayal can become blurred, happy endings aren't always clear-cut, and sometimes you have to risk everything to gain the life you deserve."

Plot:  It is one of the first books, that I have seen that has handled the intricacy of  friendship. Where you can be happy and jealous of them at the same time, where you can know everything about each other and still have no idea the secrets they keep. How Lucky You Are deals with this well. The end drug out a little though.

Characters: All 3 main characters are relate-able and we all have a friend similar to these characters. Which is what I liked cause I could pick out which character was similar to my friends and I could take certain characteristics from each girl and apply to myself. Also, each character was well written.

Pros: A great Medium Chick Lit Book. Medium meaning it isn't light and fluffy, but it isn't crazy serious.

Cons: Some transitions could of been better and the ending could have come sooner.

Final Thoughts: I would absolutely recommend this book, it reminded me a lot of Emily Giffin's books and Karen McQuestion's. I liked Waverly's character most and felt I could relate to her in a lot of aspects. I think the issues of infidelity and domestic violence. I also did like that domestic violence and the cycle of it was handled well. The author could have easily shortened the story here and made it easy and she didn't.

One For The Money - Book and Movie Review

Summary:

"Welcome to Trenton, New Jersey, home to wiseguys, average Joes, and Stephanie Plum, who sports a big attitude and even bigger money problems (since losing her job as a lingerie buyer for a department store). Stephanie needs cash--fast--but times are tough, and soon she's forced to turn to the last resort of the truly desperate: family.
Stephanie lands a gig at her sleazy cousin Vinnie's bail bonding company. She's got no experience. But that doesn't matter. Neither does the fact that the bail jumper in question is local vice cop Joe Morelli. From the time he first looked up her dress to the time he first got into her pants to the time Steph hit him with her father's Buick, M-o-r-e-l-l-i has spelled t-r-o-u-b-l-e. And now the hot guy is in hot water--wanted for murder.
Abject poverty is a great motivator for learning new skills, but being trained in the school of hard knocks by people like psycho prizefighter Benito Ramirez isn't. Still, if Stephanie can nab Morelli in a week, she'll make a cool ten grand. All she has to do is become an expert bounty hunter overnight--and keep herself from getting killed before she gets her man."

The Book
When I heard that this book and it's series was really good and a must read, I was skeptical. However, the trailer for the movie was entertaining and the book was only $8 and wow, I am happy I read this book. Stephanie Plum is a great character and the plot was very entertaining and way more adult and serious/creepier than I expected it to be. Given that I do like Crime Fiction I was bothered. I think that is a pretty big deal to mix a book that is seen as chick lit and mix in legit crime fiction. And Man, I wanted to hate Joe Morelli, yet somehow I was falling in love with him! He was sexy and was pretty much there when you needed him to be there. There were times where Stephanie annoyed me, I mean call the cops, and move lady! But then the book probably wouldn't be as interesting right? I finished the book in a day and was excited to watch the movie right after...

The Movie
Which leads me to the biggest buzz kill ever! Talk about a poorly directed movie and although generally accurate with the book, this movie managed to cheapen a good book! Within 10 minutes of the movie, I was over it. That is how bad it is. So, if you saw the movie before reading the book. I urge to erase that from your mind and read the book!

Flirting In Italian

Summary:

"Four girls. One magical, and possibly dangerous Italian summer. Family mysteries, ancient castles, long hot nights of dancing under the stars . . . and, of course, plenty of gorgeous Italian boys!"

Plot: Lots of potential for a strong plot, and at times I thought there was going to be one, but overall it was pretty flat. As a cute girly summer read, the plot and story is entertaining enough, but I felt Henderson was trying to mix a strong mystery plot, with the girly and fell short. I would of liked more traveling around, and more explanation in some things, but at the end she tries to tie it up really quick and give loose conclusions to the story and then tries to seg-way into a sequel. This didn't work.

Characters: The Main Character is British Violet/Violetta who discovers a painting in a British Museum of an Italian girl who could be her twin. Given that Violet doesn't look like her parents, she is curious to know more, therefore embarking on a trip to Italy. Violet's Character is the "normal girl" she is decently ok at the things she attempts, has her insecurities and strengths etc. Then there is Kelly, Paige and Kendra the other girls staying at the Villa with Violetta. Kelly is a redhead from the UK and is the quintessential almost geeky shy girl. I liked her and felt she was a good pairing for Violetta's confidant in Italy. Paige and Kendra are the American's and although physically described differently and somewhat different personalities. I kept mixing their characters up and getting confused.. Catia is the owner of the Villa and the girls guide, she comes of as prim,proper and strict and her daughter Elisa is well a bitch and makes it her goal to harass the girls. Then comes the ITALIAN BOYS! But although mentioned often they are not memorable characters, besides Luca who is Violetta's Love interest. Overall, I think Henderson could of done a little more to the secondary characters.

Pros: Great fun summer read.

Cons: Could of been one book, could have had a stronger plot, Needed more of some things and less of others.

Final Thoughts: Looking at this book from face value, I really did enjoy it, I mean Italy makes anything awesome. It made me want to go to Italy, and I think Henderson nailed all the multi-cultural personalities well. I was surprised when I first read the Prologue and saw that there was more to this story then fun in Italy, but a little mystery in it as well! The whole looking like someone from the past is actual a topic that really intrigues me, A) because I LOVE history B) because I like to think reincarnation/dopplegangers are real and C) it is some thing that has happened to me before..(pictures below). So I was disappointed when this story didn't really wrap up.. And I am aware it will probably be wrapped up in Book Two. However, I think this story, would have been perfect as just one book and not two and I don't care enough about it to want to read Book 2. I also would have enjoyed just a tad bit more Italy. I felt everything was rushed. With that being said.. You will enjoy this book if you are just looking for some YA Summer Traveling Romance.. but don't look into too much... like I did.

Flirting In Italian Comes Out June 12th, 2012!

(Thank You Random House,Delacourte and NetGalley)

By Invitation Only

Summary:

"Toni Fratelli has a busy summer ahead. 
After several setbacks in Manhattan force her to move home to East Hampton, her To Do list is full. She has to help her father run his popular Italian restaurant.  Start up her own catering company.  And plan, cater, and be the Maid of Honor at her best friend’s wedding on the beach.
Unfortunately for Toni, the groom’s mother is a competitive New York socialite who’ll stop at nothing to make sure her son doesn’t marry a local girl – especially on the family’s Southampton estate. The biggest caterer in the Hamptons is trying to run her fledgling business out of town.  And worse than anything, Toni seems to be losing her best friend to a circle of snooty bridesmaids.  Everything might be tolerable – if her dad could just stop treating her as if she was seventeen again.
At least Toni finds love.  When she meets a sexy surfer named Chris, it quickly turns into the most romantic summer fling of her life.  But there’s more to Chris than his vintage Mustang and used guitar … and he’s not sure Toni’s going to like the truth.  Before the end of the summer she’ll be forced to face her hopes – and fears – as trying to forgive becomes her biggest challenge yet."

Plot: It's your typical Hamptons Beach Read, there is love, drama and all that fun stuff.

Characters: Thee Main Characters are Layla and Toni. Layla is the easy going party girl, while Toni is the best friend who has to struggle. Both have damaged backrounds that factor into their current lives. My favorite character was DiDi, not because I liked her, but because her character was perfectly written. She oozed Old Money and desperation for her youth.

Pros: Perfect Beach Read

Cons: Some Stuff Could Have Been Editted Out.

Final Thoughts: By Invitation Only was a lot better then I had expected it to be, it truly is a satisfying beach read. I felt like I was really in the Hamptons. I enjoyed how the authors told the stories throughout the days of summer and told the story through alternating points of views. My only complaint it I  felt there were some characters in the book that were given too big a roll, but weren't needed. Granted in a movie, that might have worked. Since they play a part in the end, however I didn't like the ending. It was too rushed. Made to work. I can't explain it, I just didn't like it and then it continued to drag on and I felt other things mentioned in the book were left on finished. However, since I classify this book as a beach read.. I kind of let it slide.

Someday My Prince Will Come : True Adventures of a Wannabe Princess

Summary:

"Most young girls dream of becoming a princess. But unlike most girls, Jerramy Fine never grew out of it. Strangely drawn to the English royal family since she was a toddler, Jerramy finds Peter Phillips (the Queen’s oldest grandson) in a royal family tree when she is only six years old, and decides immediately that he will be her future husband. But growing up with hippie parents (who gave her a boy’s name!) in the middle of a rodeo-loving farm town makes finding her prince a much bigger challenge than Jerramy ever bargained for. She spends her childhood writing love-letters to Peter c/o Buckingham Palace, and years later, when her sense of destiny finally brings her to London, she must navigate the murky waters of English social circles, English etiquette and English dating. Along the way, she meets Princess Anne (Peter’s mother), befriends Earl Spencer, and parties with the Duchess of York. Yet life is not the Hugh Grant movie she hoped it would be. Her flatmates are lunatics, London is expensive, and English boys can be infuriating"

Plot: When I first read the summary for this book I legitimately thought that Miss Fine was clinically insane. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the story and it reminded a little of Eat Pray Love.. 

Characters: Jerramy is a lot like myself, so I found her to be a very likable person to read about. I also was highly entertained by her parents.

Pros: Entertaining, Wishful, Will Keep You Smiling and Laughing. Very relate-able narrative

Cons: My only gripe with this book would be a completely personal one, and probably the only time I stopped smiling through this book. Was the Republican "bashing" all though very briefly. I am Republican, so I get pretty offended when I get stereotyped. But just in general, I don't like irrelevant (it was completely irrelevant to the moments story line but could have been left out) political bashing on either side in my books and movies, I don't like the idea of ostracizing ones audience. Like I said, it was a personal issue, and basically the only issue I had with this book.

Final Thoughts: Definitely one of my favorite books. I could relate to Jerramy SO SO SO much. I come from a LONG line of Kings,Queens,Lords,Ladies,Knights and so on.. so, being Royal is something I have always hoped for and being a huge lover of history and etiquette. I just totally understood where she was coming from and my favorite part would have to be the idea of a Past Life, which I whole heartily believe in. This book, is definitely good feeling happy inspirational chick lit. 

Sweet Little Lies (Book 2 L.A.Candy)

Summary:

"How Sweet it is?Jane Roberts was the average girl next door until she and her best friend, Scarlett Harp, landed their own reality show, L.A. Candy. Now the girls have an all-access pass to Hollywood's hottest everything. But there's more to life on camera than just parties and shopping. . . .When racy photos of Jane are leaked to the press, she finds herself at the center of a tabloid scandal. She turns to her co-star Madison Parker for help, unaware that Madison is scheming behind the scenes. She might be Jane's shoulder to cry on, but does Madison really have Jane's back?Scarlett's working on a scandal of her own. She's fallen for someone who's strictly off-limits—which means Scarlett has a big secret to keep . . . from the L.A. Candy cameras, the paparazzi staking out her apartment, even from her best friend.Of course, nothing stays secret for long for the stars of the newest hit TV series, and all this drama couldn't be better for ratings. But can Jane survive another season in the spotlight?"

Plot: It is a bubblegum plot. Meaning it it cute,girly,cheeky but nothing mindblowing. The plot begins where book 1 left off and dives write into the story. There isn't really any major major drama in this book and read almost like you were watching an episode of a reality TV show.

Characters: The characters each have their distinctive personalities and seem to be more of a jumble of characteristics from The Hills stars, as opposed to being based on each specific person. 

Pros: Mindless Chick Lit, Cute, fun, guilty pleasure..

Cons: There is nothing I disliked about this book, but that doesn't mean it was SO good, there couldn't be anything wrong with it.

Final Thoughts: I enjoyed reading Sweet Little Lies. I read it while I was up North helping my Mom move, we were only there for 2 nights so I read the book in less then 24 hours. It was quick, it was interesting enough, and Although I know the book isn't purely based on The Hills, I will still look for connections. It is a series I enjoy reading, but I am not going out of my way to finish. 

Heart of The Matter

Summary:

"Tessa Russo is a stay-at-home mother of two young children and the wife of a renowned pediatric surgeon. Valerie Anderson is an attorney and single mother to six-year-old Charlie—a boy who has never known his father. Although both women live in the same Boston suburb, they are strangers to one another and have little in common, aside from a fierce love for their children. But one night, a tragic accident causes their lives to converge in ways no one could have imagined.
This is the moving, luminous story of good people caught in untenable circumstances. Each being tested in ways they never thought possible. Each questioning everything they once believed. And each ultimately discovering what truly matters most."

Plot: The plot itself isn't actually original, yet Giffin amazingly makes it seem like it is the most original plot ever, I just couldn't stop reading it! The compassion and heart ache and Giffin's outstanding ability to make the situation real and honest. It isn't sugar coated or Hollywood. 

Characters: As I have always said and hope to always say is Giffin's characters are not characters they are real people, they are you, me, you neighbor, your loved one... etc. She does human psychology and pathology unbelievably well. I felt a connection to every character in this book.

Pros: Truthful, hard to put down, great characters.

Cons: slightly predictable, lost momentum towards the end.

Final Thoughts:  I find it hard that Emily Giffin will ever write a book I don't like. Her writing is so real and so true. There is always a character for someone. I can relate toTessa cause I have things in common with her, but I can relate to Valerie too. Just like other women can. The book was not what I expected at first and was not yet predictable until you hit that turning point in the book. But even with the predictable ending the book was still a good read. The other thing I like about this book is like many other books Giffin gives her characters from previous books Cameos. Usually small, but this time it is a lot bigger a cameo since Tessa's brother is Dex... So yes,Rachel and Dexter from Something Borrowed. Are in this book as well. Which iscool cause it is an look at their life after.. Over all Giffin did not disappoint so if you are a fan you will enjoy it and if you are a chick lit reader who likes a little more realism then fluff you will love this book.

Star Struck

Summary:

"Our memories define us don't they? And Skye Threppel lost most of hers in a car crash that stole the lives of her best friend and fiancé. It's left scars, inside and out, which have destroyed her career and her confidence. Skye hopes a trip to the wide dusty landscapes of Nevada and a TV convention offering the chance to meet the actor she idolises will help her heal. But she bumps into mysterious Sci-fi writer Jack Whitaker first. He's a handsome contradiction cool and intense, with a wild past. Jack has enough problems already. He isn t looking for a woman with self-esteem issues and a crush on one of his leading actors. Yet he's drawn to Skye. An instant rapport soon becomes intense attraction, but Jack fears they can t have a future if Skye ever finds out about his past ... Will their memories tear them apart, or can they build new ones together?"

Plot: There are 2 plots in this book the love plot and the underlying forgotten mysterious past plot. Personally I felt that the mysterious plot was more well written and more intirguing then the Romance part and while not being a trashy romance novel in the least, it came of more like a soap opera.

Characters: Although, for the most part I liked the characters in general I found it hard to connect with them.

Pros: Translates well from UK to US, Beautiful Cover, Decent Read

Cons: Plot seemd choppy/soap opera-hy, hard to connect.

Final Thoughts: I didn't know exactly what to expect from this book, I was nervous that it would be a dirty trashy romance novel, with a lot British humor and jargon that I wouldn't understand. Boy was I wrong! There were moments where it took me a second to realize what a word meant, but overall it wasn't hard at all and it was not a trashy love novel either, more like Chick Lit Romance. Now as far as the story goes, if it was JUST soley based on the romance part I would have stopped reading the book less then half way in, but the the whole memory loss, we both have baggage and you won't find out what that is til the end of the book thing, is what kept me reading... Which is also where the book took  A Days of Our Lives turn on me. However despite that, I found the book charming and would recommend as a Airport read or something to read to kill the time. It didn't blow my mind, but it didn't waste my time either. My only major complaint was I honestly felt Jack Skye would have just been better friends.  Anyways, I am still intriguing into wanting to read Loverings other book Please Don't Stop The Music.

Thank You To Choc Lit for sending me a copy of Star Struck By Jane Lovering.

Star Struck Comes out Today in the UK.

Check It Out At Amazon.

The Carrie Diaries

 

I am going to be honest I was never a huge Sex and The City follower. I understood the main premise, the main characters and the main plot line and that was about it. Until recently, where I have begin  watching episodes OnDemand. Even though I wasn't a die hard fan, I still loved what the show was about and it introduced me to the designer clothing world.  Needless to say I was pretty excited when I heard that Candace Bushnell was writing a YA book on a young Carrie's life. I like books like that, that explain in more depth where the character came from and how she became who we know he as now. 

So, in case you didn't know Carrie Bradshaw came from a tiny town in Castlebury, Connecticut, has two younger sisters and a widowed father. Who is a scientist and wants Carrie to follow in his steps and become one as well. We start to follow Carrie at the beginning of her Senior Year. We watch Carrie evolve into her own, as she dates and has break-ups and deals with being bullied by the popular girls, friendship trials and tribulations and so forth. 

Now, to the part where I review the book... When I Got the book at the library, I was unbelievably excited to read it and then I started reading it and at the first 50 pages I was really disappointed. I felt that the Carrie that was being described was NOT the Carrie Bradshaw we all know and love and then somewhere in the early 100's something changed and the book became ever so addicting and little pieces (emphasize little) of Carrie started to appear and before I knew it I couldn't put the book down. I was entranced into this YA Chick-Lit and I wanted more when it ended.

Some of My Favorite Quotes

"...You don't want to peak in high school. If you do, the rest of your life is a disaster." - Pg. 201

"I don't like to think of myself as a 'virgin'. I prefer to think of myself as 'sexually incomplete'  You know like I haven't finished the course yet" - Pg. 212

"How is this possible? How can a three month relationship end in less than fifteen minutes? But the world can change in seconds. There are sudden car accidents. And deaths.They say you're lucky if you know someone is going to die, because that way you have time to say good-bye" - Pg. 247

The Wedding Girl

Boy, did I ever learn not to pick a book by its cover with this one! I mean this obviously won't detour me from buying books just because I like their title and cover, but it is a disappointment when a book with both, falls short on the whole story line.


The book is about Milly who when she is 18 marries a man named Allan spur of the moment, ten years later she is engaged again and about to get married to a wealthy handsome man named Simon and have the wedding of the century. Until someone from the past comes back into her life and threatens to tell the secret that she was in fact married before and never got divorced. Yea, that really is the plot.

It has potential and unfortunately the story didn't really progress to more then a bad soap opera. I really wanted to like the book and since I have enjoyed her books in the past I was sad that this one was not one of those books.. but to be honest I just found the book dry and annoying with twists that weren't exactly shocking, but disturbing. Ok, disturbing is harsh.. they just weren't "OMG I can't believe it!" they were more "Really? That is weird..." I also, found it hard to really emotionally love the characters... although I found easy to hate a one. Particularly Simon; who's constant whining, insecurities and outbursts drove me insane!

To some readers, I am sure this book may appeal to you... it could definitely become someone guilty pleasure summer vacay read... it just wasn't mine and it wouldn't be a book I recommend to my fairweather reading friends.

Library Lovers: BOTD #17

Ok,  I definitely pushing it but I didn't want to fail my personal challenge of having a Book of The Day, Everyday in February for Library Lover Month. However I am still sick. SO I will let Amazon explain the book. I will say thought that I thought the book was cute, but the cover doesn't match the story.

"Phillips (It Had to Be You) makes old Hollywood gossip new again in this over-the-top, hot-under-the-sheets rom-com. Sitcom Skip and Scooter co-stars Georgie York, who like her character exudes spunky charm, and Bram Shepard, whose upbringing couldn't be more different from the nice boy he plays, hate each other even before Bram's offscreen sexual escapades lead to the sitcom's cancellation. Flash forward eight years: his career has cratered, and her biggest accomplishment has been briefly marrying hunky star Lance Marks, who abandons her for sex-goddess-turned-international-do-gooder Jade Gentry. So when Bram and Georgie wake up from a Vegas bender and find themselves married to each other, they make the most of it: Georgie aims to undo the damage Lance has done to her heart and her public image, while Bram is gunning for a second chance at life, love and stardom. It's a blast to watch the hate-each-other-yet-made-for-each-other couple as they duck paparazzi or spar before falling into bed. In this massively entertaining romp, redemption is always possible, and even a fake Hollywood couple trapped in a pretend marriage might find true love"

This One's For The Girls

Let me just say I am SO sorry, for not being an avid blogger this month.. I have about 5 different blogs going on  and I have failed to update most of them regularly.. although this may be my favorite one to write... well next to my Event Planning tips one, but I feel like such a fraud writing that one... cause even though I want to be an Event Planner and I am extremely judgmental of other peoples events.... I am not an Event Planner(yet) therefore I feel my advice I give is pointless... but I give it none the less.. I know I don't normally start my Book/Reading blogs this way, but I felt that this was the right way to do this one. ANYWAYS, I can't exactly pinpoint why I haven't been blogging as much and I think it has to do with two things. One being lack of motivation, but the other being... I think my blogging/writing skills suck. Especially after realizing my fiance is a better writer then I. Which this may sound bad, but it quite shocking to me. You see, I am extremely competitive, but not just that.. In general I did better in school then Brandon. I am the one that who tells him how to spell words and what words mean and all that fun stuff. Granted he is WAY better at spell checking then I am... What kills me is I got him into Blogging/Writing and now he is BETTER than me. Therefore a part of me died.

Which brings me to another similar topic (don't worry this will all tie into each other) I kind of want to write a book.. I have already written a children s book [SIDEBAR: which I am still looking for an illustrator for and help/tips on getting published are much appreciated] but I want to explore other genres, I have so many great ideas in my head that I want to get out on paper. Which again leads to my fear of objection and the fact that I stink at writing. Which I know, is bad cause "I'm the only person.. standing in the way of myself ' blah blah blah blah. It also doesn't help that I have a MILLION (literally) other things I want to do. Now here comes the segeway.. what led me to writing this way longer then expected "prologue" to my next book review is, that I was on my Twitter when I came across Meg Cabot's twitter page, which led me to her web page, which led me to reading her blogs. Her blogs made me laugh and in a way inspired me to start writing a book again. Will I go through with it? I don't know.. but for now I will review one of Meg Cabot's books that I read.. which is another thing her blog reminded me to do. = )

Lets go back to when I was 13.. Had braces, was built like twig, with frizzy hair, braces and freckles. Sitting in my purple flowered bed, in purple room at my Dad's house.. staying up extremely late reading... Meg Cabot books. That has long it also been since I have read a Meg Cabot book.. (I'm 21 now). My selection process of books wasn't really different then it is now, expect that I was looking in the Young Adult Selection, which I do at times still venture into. So like (most) 13 year old girls.. I venture towards the book, with the neat title and pretty cover.  "How To Be Popular" what somewhat geeky girls wouldn't be interested in this book?

The Title basically sums up the book, the main character Stephenie Landry has been a social leper since 6th grade and yearns to be popular. So, when she finds an old book on what else...but, How To Be Popular. Stephanie uses it as her guide to climbing the social ladder in high school. The book is pretty much what every teen coming of age story has.... The nerdy girl, who becomes a "princess" (no, this isn't Princess Diaries).. who likes the hot jock, but realizes the person she really loves is right under her nose. Family Drama and all that fun stuff. Cabot's characters are always fun, witty and like-able which makes the books SO popular. However, my one critique would be that I actually didn't really like how the book ended (if i remember it correctly). Although THIS one wasn't one of my particular favorites of Meg Cabot's, I over all enjoyed the book and recommend it to anyone who has a daughter who is going through her awkward stages.

How To Be Single

You know when I start a book, as I begin reading it.. I begin thinking about what I am going to write for my review of the book. I make little mental notes, about what i liked, what I didn't like, how it made me feel, how long it took me to read, and overall I think about what makes the book different then any other book I have read, but also, what makes it similar to other books and with How To Be Single. I honestly don't know where to begin. You see, I had this review pretty much written and summed up in my head until the last 100 pages of so of the book. Here goes nothing.

How To Be Single By Liz Tuccillo is Sex In The City meets He's Just Not That Into You, Meets Eat,Pray,Love. The fore most making a lot of sense since she was a screenwriter for Sex In The City and she co-wrote He Just Not That Into You. The Book is about 5 New York 30-something woman, who are all.. you guessed it! Single. The book is centered around one women named Julie, and HER friends Georgia,Serena,Ruby and Alice. Each women with their own stories, there own personalities but same dilemma. After one tragic night out on the town Julie decides she is going to write a book on being single and how women from other cultures; deal with being single. While Julie is off researching the book goes back and forth between her friends lives back in New York.. and how these four other women lean on each other with out having Julie around and also, how they deal with being single in the city.

To be honest, I don't know how I feel about the book, it took me awhile to read.. it was one of those books where I would say "I need to finish it.." but then I could always find something better to do.. so I read it a few pages at a time, until I finally got to the end. The book was interesting, to see the harsh reality of growing older and well being single. The book had its love stories here and there but for the most part, it was a ride awakening. I did enjoy the culture shocks though. It is funny how the author really didn't have to vividly describe the cities the character was in.. she just describes the people and the ambiance of the city came to life on the page. The thing is.. although this book is suppose to be fiction.. it is actually quite truthful and real. There was a lot of research done for it.. and to hear how different women all over the world dealt with being 30-somethings and single was really quite amazing. From open marriages, to true love, to arranged marriages. It was definitely an experience.

Where I started to actually have emotions in the book is interesting though, the parts of the book that stood out for me, were really parts of the book that I don't know.. were minimal. Meaning had they not been in the book.. the overall book would not have been changed. My first, intense emotion happened when Julie was in China and explained that she had to use a "Squatter" toilet in public. This was a culture shock to me and frankly it scared me...after hearing that my want to visit China ever went WAY WAY down. Then there was her visit to India. Which I don't know why but made me think... because an issue she addressed was the kids of the slums begging for money on the streets... You know Slumdog Millionaire Style.. The theme of that chapter was the locals would say "don't give them money, it's a scam" and also " you know they are happy, they don't know anything else" So, this made me think... of course they are happy, they don't know anything but poverty. Not saying that the conditions they live in are acceptable but that was just an interesting gem. The third thing I was surprised about is an issue in Serena's life that happens, towards the end of the book, that had me in tears.. but I will not spoil that for you. These being the most emotional and memorable moments in the book for me, also makes me think.. if those are what got to me the most.. what does it say about the actual book itself? Like I said I am not sure, whether or not I like this book.The Ending really surprised me, mainly cause I guess it wasn't what I expected... I expected it to end one way or the other, either they all find the loves of their life or they all end up being single and although one of those is correct I was still surprised how the women got to that moment and how cinematic cheesy movie the author made it.

Would I recommend this book... not necessarily.. if you are a girl who is struggling with being single then yes, I would.. mainly because it gives you some many options on how you can look at your singledom and also possible solutions. Otherwise, the book was alright and I'm glad I bought it used.

What's Next?

The next book in my repertoire of books is Go Ask Alice By Anonymous. I decided on Go Ask Alice, mainly because I have heard a lot of buzz over this book for a while now... and it suppose to be a nitty gritty TRUE struggling teen story. I'm thinking and hoping like the movie Thirteen...? Who knows.

Let's Just Not... and Say We Did

The Title of this Blog describes exactly how I feel about this book. Although, I finished reading this book about two weeks ago I felt Zero urge to blog about it and also, I have been busy. With that said... my OCD kicked in and I HAD to blog about it or I would be out of order. I'm weird like that.

I think the problem began with the authors themselves.. being that both woman are in the Hollywood business and are well Screen writers (I think) I feel no need to clarify this since I really could care less. They are in the industry what they do, really doesn't matter. Had this book been written into a TV Show or even a movie.. possibly it could have been better. The Idea for the book, was good.. the lay out for the book was good.. but, after that it just lacked everything. The plot jumped around the book and then on the last 5 pages all comes together, but still leaves you unsatisfied. Mainly cause there was zero substance to each of the plot lines.. they were all haphazardly thrown around. Minus the clever and constant name dropping this book just didn't hit the mark. I wasted too much of my life reading this book, and would never think of recommending this book to anyone. THANK GOD I bought it had the dollar store, cause it would not have been worth anymore than that. 

In Other News...

I am suppose to be reading "Death of A Salesman" for my class.. which annoys me since it interrupted my flow of books I have ready to be read next. I have been told that "Death of a Salesman" is a classic however, once a book is assigned to me for school, I lose any interest I had in reading the book... I think it's the deadline..deadlines, make it hard for me to enjoy a book. Which speaking of deadline I have 2 days to finish reading this book before I have to write a book report on it.. and I am only on page 14. I should correct myself when I say book, cause it's actually a screenplay and  written in that format it is also, only 150 pages long. SO it really isn't a difficult read. I just don't want to read it, but I will (i hope) and I will report back to my "readers" aka my mom and that will be that. I am also excited because I bought Myself a new book today By Bill and Giuliana Rancic called "I Do, Now What?" If you don't know who they are Bill won the Apprentice and Giuliana is an E! News Host with Ryan Seacrest and Together they have their own reality show on E! and Style called Giuliana and Bill.  They are a hilarious couple and live an exceedingly stressful life, but also have an unusual marriage. OK. I need to stop this is what I say in my What's Next Part of my blog. So I will stop, I was just excited to buy this book and read it.. but not until I read the 3 maybe 4 books ahead of it ...

Pretty Girls and Deathly Fun Times

Pretty Little Devils is a mix between mean girls and a horror movie. The book is about a girl names Hazel who isn't your typical outcast; she is pretty, she has nice clothes but she isn't in the " in-crowd". Desperately, Hazel wants to be apart of the schools group of "it" girls, known as the The Pretty Little Devils. The one day Hazel is asked to join the group and then the drama begins. The Pretty Little Devils... are just that. They use the houses of their babysitting clients as their homes to throw their famous parties and they are known for hazing. All is fun and games until someone jealousy turns into murder.

The book is a great book, not hard to read and nothing special but definitely intriguing. The ending to the book is definitely surprising and actually I remember when I finished reading, it was hard for me to go to sleep after. If you are middle school, high school age I would recommend the book. Otherwise, you might feel you have wasted your time.

Got A Secret... Can You Keep It?

Pretty Little Liars is a series I began reading before it was a TV series and also when it was still in the progress of being a series. So I have only read the 1st 4 books given that by the time the other 3 books were read I had already lost interest... but with the TV show now going on maybe I'll read those other 3 books...

What I liked about the PLL series was it's originality. The series is about these 5 girls Ali, Spencer, Hannah, Emily and Aria. Who are best friends and Queen Bee's. Then one fateful summer night Ali goes missing. So, fast forward a year and the four girls who no longer have there leader Ali, have gone there separate ways.

The Book is told in chapters each separated by the girls separate lives.. So one Chapter is told through Spencer's eyes, the next Aria's, Etc. The Plot really begins when Alison's body is found and the girls are all being haunted by this mysterious "A" who knows secrets about their lives that only Ali knew... The book becomes this crazy "who dun it" and you are constantly trying to figure out who this "A" is that knows SO much about the girls and is constantly out to ruin there current lives. The books are full of twists and turns that keep you wanting more.

The series form what I read is great. It's a perfect chick lit mystery book and more geared towards the teens. There is never a boring moment in the series and it keeps you one your toes. So don't be afraid to get into it.

Currently Reading: Sara Gruen

Running out of Options

I Had already gone through the list of books I had read this year... So I had to go through my list of books I read from the summer of 2009 and a little after that. Here is the 1st book from the list...

Ok, I have to do some recalling here. 13 Little Blue Envelopes is a book about 17 year old Virginia who receives 13 blue letters from her Crazy Aunt Peg; who has passed away. Th 1st letter explains that Ginny will be embarking on an adventure and that she is not aloud to open the next letter until she gets to her next destination or completes the task in the letter beforehand. On top of that she is given 4 rules she must follow.

Rule #1:

You may bring only what fits in your backpack. Don't try to fake it with a purse or a carry-on.

Rule #2:

You may not bring guidebooks, phrase books, or any kind of foreign language aid. And no journals.

Rule #3:

You cannot bring extra money or credit/debit cards, traveler's checks, etc. I'll take care of all that.

Rule #4:

No electronic crutches. This means no laptop, no cell phone, no music, and no camera. You can't call home or communicate with people in the U.S. by Internet or telephone. Postcards and letters are acceptable and encouraged.

The letter takes her on all these adventures through Europe, where Virginia discovers things about her Aunt and learns things about herself.

The book is a typical teenage chick lit light read. It's a feel good book. I enjoyed the book and in fact as I am sitting here planning my trip to Europe in April... I find myself recalling moments about the places we are going to visit from this book. The book is nothing SPECIAL and would not be the first book on the top of my head that I would recommend to someone, but it is a nice book, that makes you want to go travel.

Currently Reading: Water For Elephants by Sara Gruen

Remember When You Were...

Twenties Girl definitely surprised me. It was not what I thought it was about. I originally thought it was about a modern girl who likes to live like she was in the twenties (which overall sounded like a boring book, but I love the '20's era). However I was ALL wrong. The book is set in London, England. Lara is the main character; who just broke up with her boyfriend Josh, dropped everything to go into business with her best friend to become a headhunter (although shes never done it before), and overall is just in a tough spot. Mainly, because Natalie, Lara's friend and business partner decides to move to India, fall in love and isn't exactly sure when she will be coming back. Leaving Lara and their assistant Kate, to figure the business out. On top of that Lara is convinced her ex is still in love with her and she has to go to the funeral of her Great Aunt Sadie; who she's never met. Now, this is where the book begins...while at the funeral Lara discovers that she can see her great aunt Sadie, who has taken form of her 23 year old body from the '20's. Being Lara is the only one who can see her, Sadie asks..well more like demands Lara stop the funeral and help her find her necklace; because she cannot be put to rest without it.

That may sound a little boring, but the book hilariously follows them through there journey. It's part ghost story, meets mystery novel, meets love story. There are two, three, maybe even four different story lines going on... all tied together perfectly. I read through this book rather quickly and not because I just HAD to know how it ended but because it was hilarious and just made me happy. I would say it was like I was watching a movie or reading a perfectly well executed movie script and I just wanted to know what the ending would be. The book is excellently written and since the writer is also British, there are a few words that I didn't quite understand but got the point. This is the perfect summer reading book, or a book to read while lounging by the pool. I'm actually excited to read some more of Sophie Kinsella's books.


What's Next?

The Next book in my pile of books to read is "Water for Elephants" by Sarah Gruen. I honestly do not know much about the book. I know it is a historical piece (which I LOVE) and it has to do with the circus. I mainly picked the book up for 2 reasons... One being I have heard great things about it and 2nd being that I know the movie is in production and I want to read it before it comes out..