Top Ten Tuesday: Books That Will Make You Swoon

1. The Vampire Academy Series

by Richelle Mead

The swoon worthy factor of the first book is what made me immediately purchase the rest of the series!

2. Where She Went by Gayle Forman

Usually, Where She Went gets tied up together with If I Stay and although, If I Stay has swoon worthy moments. Where She Went is about Adams eternal love for Mia and something about that makes it swoony to me.

3. Shadow and Bone By Leigh Bardugo

You WILL fall in love with the Darkling and you know you shouldn't but you will. It is irresistible!!!

4. Twilight Series By Stephenie Meyer

A good percentage of you know exactly what I am talking about... because even when you are skeptical about the series, you end up getting caught up and reading them ALL...

5. Blue Bloods Series By Melissa De La Cruz

Forbidden love, bonded soul mates and essential love that lasts an eternity.

6. Jessica's Guide to Dating on the Dark Side By Beth Fantaskey

Ignore the Fact that most of these books involve Vampires, but really this book is SO good and the romance will definitely hook you in.

7. The Girl In The Steel Corset By Kady Cross

Finley, Jack Dandy and a Duke, DAYUM. 

8. Anna and The French Kiss By Stephanie Perkins

Even though I prefer Lola and the Boy Next Door, nothing can beat finding love in Paris.

9. Very Valentine By Adriana Trigiani

New York and Italy. Oh that is love in a nutshell.

10. The Princess Diaries Series by Meg Cabot

Oh yes, this series grew on me and watching Mia grow up and explore relationships and find the right relationship makes it realistic and again.. swoon worthy. 

Speaking of Books that Make you Swoon... Head over to My Ultimate Book Crush Showdown and vote for the Book Crushes that make you swoon... Click Here.

The Gates of Paradise (Blue Bloods, #7)

Summary:

"Schuyler Van Alen is running out of time. The Dark Prince of Hell is storming the Gates of Paradise, intent on winning the heavenly throne for good. This time he has his greatest angels by his side, Abbadon and Azrael—Jack and Mimi Force, as they are known in the Coven.
Or so he thinks. Even as Lucifer assigns Jack and Mimi the tasks of killing their true loves, the Force twins secretly vow to defeat the Dark Prince once and for all. But how far will Mimi and Jack go to conceal their real loyalties?
Meanwhile, former vampire Bliss Llewellyn has joined forces with Lawson, the greatest wolf of the underworld, to free his people from their imprisonment in Hell. As they struggle against impossible odds, an ancient message, woven into the very fabric of time, reveals just how much depends on the success of their mission.
Lucifer seeks the key to the Gate of Promise, and when Schuyler is taken captive and delivered straight to Hell, she must make an unthinkable choice—the same one the archangel Michael was forced to make during the Crisis in Rome. Will Schuyler find the strength to do what he could not?
The epic, heartbreaking Blue Bloods series comes to a close with this final novel about staggering courage, unbearable sacrifice, and the immortality of true love."

Man oh man, did this book come full circle! I enjoyed every moment of it and if you are a fan of the series, I do not think you will be disappointed. I am SO very excited that De La Cruz will continue the story lines in a new series. Since I am not fully ready to let these characters go.

The Au Pairs (The Au Pairs, #1)

Summary:

"Summer in the city? Way overrated. Everybody who's anybody in New York City summers in the Hamptons. Mara, Eliza, and Jacqui all want a piece of the action, all for different reasons.So the girls answer a classified ad to become au pairs. How bad can it be, watching a couple of kids on the beach all day? They've got the swank address, the sweet ride, and an all-access pass to the hottest social scene on the East Coast. It's shaping up to be the summer of their lives."

Plot: The Au Pairs plot line is a pretty predictable summer read and overall kind of vapid. However, I did enjoy the name dropping and the essence of the Hamptons.

Characters: Mara quickly becomes the main character of the series and easily most like-able. While Jacqui quickly became the most annoying and Eliza the one with the most growth.

Final Thoughts: I am very impressed how Melissa DeLaCruz is a versatile author and how whenever you read her books, you she transforms. Certains authors have a trademark way of writing that you know it is them, but DeLaCruz is full of writing surprises. With that being said The Au Pairs, would be the least favorite book I have read of hers, I will continue to read the series to see if the plot gets stronger.. However, I cannot see where it can go.

LA Times Festival of Books (Year 2) Part 2

If You Saw Part 1 of this, then you know a couple weeks ago, I attended The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books and here is where I pick up on Part 2 of My Day at the festival...


Last year, I was suppose to see Maureen Johnson, Maggie Stiefvater and Melissa DeLaCruz in a panel, but I was sick and couldn't see them. Luckily in the past year, Maggie Stiefvater and Melissa DeLaCruz did other appearances and I got to meet them, but Maureen Johnson eluded me! So, I was really excited for this panel. This Panel had Melissa De La Cruz, Maureen Johnson, Katherine Marsh and Lisa McMann and Narrated By Ransom Riggs.

Sorry, for the poor photo quality.  The panel was very funny. They each talked about their newest books, Gates of Paradise, The Madness Underneath, Jepp Who Defied The Stars and Crash. Melissa DeLaCruz's excerpt surprised me, because it kinda gives away a huge plot line in the series. But it was cool too, also it was funny hearing that she forgot actually how her book originally ended and had to go back through her notes to remember.  Maureen Johnson's excerpt was funny (of course) Having to do with Rory and Alistair. During this time one of the signs on the posters behind them fell and they joked that is was Alistair and he wasn't amused. Katherine Marsh began with describing how her book came to be, which was REALLY interesting and I look forward to reading it because it is definitely not a common concept. Lisa McMann's reading also set  the plot of the book, and I am excited to read Crash as well.

A lot of ?'s were asked and it was interesting to hear the author different and same answers.  They talked about the themes of their books. 

Melissa De La Cruz: saying that hers is in the names of her titles

 Katherine Marsh: Fate  

Lisa McMann: She really didn't know. That was my favorite answer because, it is totally me. She just writes, if you see a theme great, but she doesn't write with one in mind. 

Maureen Johnson:discussed how she didn't like when students emailed her, asking for the theme of her book. Mainly, cause they are usually doing it was a school project and are just being lazy. So in response she sends them bogus responses like the theme being about artisan cheese making and such.

They discussed their writing process.. 

Melissa DeLaCruz: Outlines. She writes everything down that she needs to know.

Maureen Johnson: Likes to Leroy Jenkins It. This Got A Few Laughs. If you Don't Know what that is, youtube it.. It is HILARIOUS.

Katherine Marsh and Lisa McMann: Both said they don't outline. 

 

Someone asked the difference Between Young Adult and Adult and all the authors pretty much said the same thing. They don't feel there is a difference, except that the characters are younger. 

Towards the end, things got interesting when a girl asked If there were any original plot lines left?" They way see worded it was pretty insulting, almost like she was saying the the authors books weren't original. To be fair, I don't think she meant it in that way. But it obviously, bothered the authors. You could tell, cause the tone in their voices changed. Their answers were pretty clear too. Yes, there are still original plot lines left.

That concluded the Q&A portion and then it became.. BOOK SIGNING Time!

I usually get extremely nervous around Authors but it was pretty easy to talk to Maureen Johnson. She complimented my shirt "I'm Not A Player I Just Blog A Lot" and she said she hoped I liked her book and If I didn't I could just lie. Which we discussed that, that is the best way to form a relationship and then we took a picture together. I really think this may be my favorite author picture thus far. 

And Here Is My Signed Books, Books I bought and Bookmarks I got from my day at LATFOB

And I CANNOT Wait For Next Year!

Bloody Valentine (Blue Bloods #5.5)

Summary:

"The Blue Bloods have powers beyond human comprehension: strength that defies logic, speed that cannot be captured on film, the ability to shape-shift, and more. But in matters of the heart, no one, not even those immortal vampires, has total control. In Bloody Valentine, part of the best-selling Blue Bloods series, author Melissa de la Cruz offers three tantalizing stories that delve deep into the love lives of the all-powerful vamps (and their Red Blood friends) from New York's Upper East Side. Might a witchy new girl help cure Oliver's broken heart? How did Allegra fall in love with a human? Will Schuyler and Jack finally be bonded?

Romantic and sensual, Bloody Valentine reveals the undying love, the hope and devastation, and the lust and longing that have defined the Blue Bloods throughout history. Prepare to be swept off your feet."

Reading this Novella is not a must to the series. In fact the 6th book quickly brushes up on these events. However... for fans of the series it is nice. We learn how Oliver copes with Schuyler's departure and we meet Freya, which is nice.. and I think I even enjoyed this more. Since I already know Freya's character from Witches of East End. Understanding Allegra and Charlie's relationship and how it feel apart is maybe the coolest of the stories. Since at this point of the series we do not know a lot about Allegra/Gabrielle. However my favorite story is Schuyler and Jack's wedding. Especially, with the drawings. So, like I said this book is an absolute treat to fans of the series but you are not missing anything too important.

Witches of East End (The Beauchamp Family #1)

Summary:

"From the author of the highly addictive and bestselling Blue Bloods series, with almost 3 million copies sold, comes a new novel, Melissa de la Cruz's first for adults, featuring a family of formidable and beguiling witches.
The three Beauchamp women--Joanna and her daughters Freya and Ingrid--live in North Hampton, out on the tip of Long Island. Their beautiful, mist-shrouded town seems almost stuck in time, and all three women lead seemingly quiet, uneventful existences. But they are harboring a mighty secret--they are powerful witches banned from using their magic. Joanna can resurrect people from the dead and heal the most serious of injuries. Ingrid, her bookish daughter, has the ability to predict the future and weave knots that can solve anything from infertility to infidelity. And finally, there's Freya, the wild child, who has a charm or a potion that can cure most any heartache.
For centuries, all three women have been forced to suppress their abilities. But then Freya, who is about to get married to the wealthy and mysterious Bran Gardiner, finds that her increasingly complicated romantic life makes it more difficult than ever to hide her secret. Soon Ingrid and Joanna confront similar dilemmas, and the Beauchamp women realize they can no longer conceal their true selves. They unearth their wands from the attic, dust off their broomsticks, and begin casting spells on the townspeople. It all seems like a bit of good-natured, innocent magic, but then mysterious, violent attacks begin to plague the town. When a young girl disappears over the Fourth of July weekend, they realize it's time to uncover who and what dark forces are working against them.
With a brand-new cast of characters, a fascinating and fresh world to discover, and a few surprise appearances from some of the Blue Blood fan favorites, this is a page-turning, deliciously fun, magical summer read fraught with love affairs, witchcraft, and an unforgettable battle between good and evil."

I was really excited when Melissa De La Cruz came out with Witches of East End, since I am a HUGE fan of the Blue Blood Series. I was even more excited when I heard some of those characters would be making an appearance this book. So, I bought it and it sat in my TBR pile, for pretty much ever and I finally picked it up and began reading it a couple of days ago and was shocked.

Witches of East End has more of an adult tone to it.. maybe we can say New Adult, over Young Adult and De La Cruz's writing had more of a stronger literary tone to it. Not the same as Blue Bloods. You know, it was slower paced and really descriptive. Once I caught on, I really liked it; I just needed a moment to adjust.

The storyline overall was interesting... because at first the tone to it, is 3 witches (a mother and her daughters)  who have powers but due to punishments from the Salem Trials can no longer use them. As the story progresses the women start to use their powers in their small community and then some other worldly bad things start happening. You can kind of see where this is going to go as you start to read and the farther you get into the book, the story starts to pick up and get more exciting.

However, the last 100 pages the plot kind of takes an odd turn. We learn a lot about the ladies past and how it ties in with the issues they are having now. Although, I did find those plot lines interesting.. I just felt they jumped out of no where and didn't fit into the story at the time. Though, it is obvious they will play a part in the series as a whole. The placing of it seemed off for me.

In conclusion. I was happy with the book and will definitely continue on with the series, but that may be because De La Cruz already has a strong fan base with me. If you are a fan of the Blue Bloods series or Melissa De La Cruz's writing it is a must read and if you are someone who hasn't read her books, but is looking for a little more adult paranormal reads, than I highly recommend this book as well.

PS
My favorite part was definitely when Mimi showed up and the tiny scenes that involved the Vampires.

Lost In Time (Blue Bloods Series, Book #6)

Summary:

"The stakes have never been higher for the young Blue Bloods of Manhattan. After their brief yet beautiful bonding ceremony in Italy, Schuyler Van Alen and Jack Force depart for Egypt, desperate to find the elusive Gate of Promise before Jack must face his twin, Mimi, for a blood trial. A blood trial that only one of them can survive. But everything Schuyler thought she knew about the gate turns out to be a lie, and they soon find themselves ensnared in a deadly battle against the demon-born. Schuyler and Jack take up arms, only to realize that there is a much graver threat simmering in the Kingdom of the Dead.
Meanwhile, determined to save the only vampire she still loves, Mimi has followed Kingsley Martin into Hell. With the help of her new human Conduit, Oliver Hazard-Perry, Mimi makes a bargain with the Queen of the Dead that she may soon regret. When the time comes to choose between love and revenge, both Mimi and Oliver will learn the true meaning of sacrifice.
confronted by danger, betrayal, and loss at every turn, the Blue Bloods must find the will to fight - and love - another day."

Plot: De La Cruz does it again, magically intertwining stories and dialouges seamlessly. Questions are answered, some remain to be answered and some new ones arise. But overall, Lost in Time does a good job at given the reader enough satisfying answers, while give jaw dropping page turning outcomes. 

Characters: I loved seeing Allegra and Ben in this and getting to know more of their story. Mimi's storyline showed both her best and worst qualities, there were times I would hate her, just as much as I did in book one and there were times I found more endearing then I had before. Schuyler and Jacks story was more low-key in this book, but was still so important to their whole story. And poor Oliver. How I hope things will get better for him.

Pros: Tons of answers, lots of action and an over all page turner.

Cons: Nothing really that stands out to me.

Final Thoughts: I should have read Bloody Valentine, which is why it took me so long to read Lost In Time; since I was waiting to Bloody Valentine. I read reviews saying it was a novella and could easily be skipped, but I know now that it would have added a lot to what I had read in Lost in Time.  As far as this book goes, I was very pleased with it. It sets up the final book in the series perfectly. As always.. I cannot recommend this series enough! 

In My Mailbox (41)

Hosted By The Story Siren
*I Apologize for the Annoying Audio*
For Review Easily Amused By Karen McQuestion
For Review (e-galley) How Lucky You Are By Kristyn Kusek-Lewis The Enchanted Truth By Kym Petrie One Pink Line By Dina Silver A Lack of Temperance By Anna Loan -Wisley
Library Princess in Pink By Meg Cabot Princess in Waiting By Meg Cabot Vampire Academy By Richelle Mead Lost In Time By Melissa De La Cruz What Boys Really Want By Pete Hautman Scarlett Fever By Maureen Johnson Sloppy First By Megan McCafferty

Mention in this Review Jen from Makeshift Bookmark

Want Want Want Wednesday (37)

Her Royal Spyness By Rhys Bowen

"The Agatha Award winner debuts a 1930s London mystery series, featuring a penniless twenty-something member of the extended royal family. 
Her ridiculously long name is Lady Victoria Georgiana Charlotte Eugenie, daughter to the Duke of Atholt and Rannoch. And she is flat broke. As the thirty-fourth in line for the throne, she has been taught only a few things, among them, the perfect curtsey. But when her brother cuts off her allowance, she leaves Scotland, and her fianc� Fish-Face, for London, where she has: 
a) worked behind a cosmetics counter-and gotten sacked after five hoursb) started to fall for a quite unsuitable minor royalc) made some money housekeeping (incognita, of course), andd) been summoned by the Queen to spy on her playboy son. 
Then an arrogant Frenchman, who wants her family's 800-year-old estate for himself, winds up dead in her bathtub. Now her most important job is to clear her very long family name."

I saw this book reviewed on The Unread Reader I believe? and It sounded like something I would enjoy.

Gates of Paradise By Melissa De La Cruz

"Watch out for the explosive finale in the Blue Bloods series.The seventh and final novel in the epic saga.
All your questions answered. . . All the mysteries explained. . . Friends reunited. . . Hearts broken. . . Will Bliss return with the Hellhounds? Will Schuyler save the Blue Bloods? Who will live? Who will die?"

Look,  I am obsessed with this series. It is definitely a favorite of mine and I may be a book or two behind but still! I want this book BADLY!

The Last Romanov By Dora Levy Mossanen

"For almost a century, Imperial Russia has captivated the imagination- the ruthless execution of the royal family, the disputed survival of the heir: it's a cinematic chaos that the masterful Dora Levy Mossanen unravels for her readers. Taking readers deep into tarnished grandeur, The Last Romanov follows Darya, a wise old beauty whose time spent with the Imperial family has haunted her entire life. When the murderous events unfold, Darya is plagued by the prophecy made by the Empress's advisor, Rasputin. She must find the missing Tsarevich Alexis Romanov and restore the monarchy or risk losing her own life."

You had me at Romanov. 

Melissa De La Cruz Signing

So, A month or so ago I was suppose to see Melissa De La Cruz at LA Festival of Books but I ended up getting sick and not going.. (same situation as Maggie Stiefvater) Anyways, this week I was looking up signings and discovered that Melissa would be at Barnes and Noble Santa Monica - about an hour away from me depending on traffic. I was stoked that is was only a few days away, but was worried I wouldn't be able to go since Barnes and Noble as a policy that you must purchase the book the author is promoting to attend the signing and only the 1st 200 people get to attend. Being as I am without a personal car and not rolling in the dough.. I wasn't sure how this would happen. Luckily, I have mother who is VERY supportive of my blog, has a car, has money and lives 1 mile away from me. In other words my mom went with me and bought the book for me. I also knew there is usually a limit on the amount of books that could be signed, but I brought all my books by her, just in case.  The event beginning at 7pm, we left at 4:30 expecting Traffic and  a long line.We arrived a 5:15 and after purchasing the book, sitting alone in the conference room, until 6:20, when two other girls arrived. We talked to them and shared our interests in books, etc. This is where we learned also that at all the Barnes and Noble signings they have been too, they have not enforced the purchasing a book rule.  (which is good to know for future signings).


Anyways, a little past 7 Melissa arrived and by then there was about 15 people in attendance (which shocks me!) Melissa began talking about her book and then proceeded into a Q&A which was a little awkward, since I guess no one really had any. So it turned into another chick and I basically asking Melissa Questions.. and surprisingly my mom even asked one! The good thing is Melissa is VERY good at giving long and in depth answers and I really learned A LOT more about her. After the Q&A it was time for the Book Signing.. where I proceeded to make sure I was the last in line.. I mean I brought like 6 books, on top of having Serpent's Kiss. So, I figured since there isn't a lot of us, and I am at the end, this could probably work in my favor and luckily it did! Melissa, complimented my shirt (I wore my Book Blogger one) asked about my blog, which I gave her one of my new Moo Info Cards... I am sure she will lose it haha. and basically was pure joy to talk to, cause she is freaking AWESOME. And Now I have realized I am not good at talking to Authors, this is when I get star struck.. this is when I decided to tell them over and over how much I love their books and why and blah blah blah... She was nice enough to take photos with the three of us who stayed and hung out and she even gave me a hug and said I was So Sweet.   So, now that I am babbling on and on.. here are the photos. (Ignore How Bad I Look)

Misguided Angel (Book 5, Blue Bloods)

Summary:

"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."

Plot: The plot thickens! Dun..Dun.. Dun!... DeLaCruz adds a whole lot of new info, we have Mimi as regent struggling to keep the New York Coven united, Jack and Schulyer's love for each other, while they search for the portals and then De Lz Cruz adds the kicker. Which makes the plot for the series THAT much crazier.

Characters: De La Cruz really only focuses on four main characters in this book, she isn't name dropping a bajillion different characters into the scenario, as some of the past books (which wasn't bad and was easy to follow). She kept it Simple and didn't build so much the characters this time as she did the story.

Pros: Great writing, great story and De La Cruz always changes her format.

Cons: Too Short

Final Thoughts:  I enjoyed Book 5 a lot more then I did Books 3 and 4. I liked how she told the story in Parts. Part 1 - Jack and Schulyer's story, Part 2 - Mimi's, Part 3 Deming. It told each of their main stories, without jumping back and forth, but still relating with the other Parts. The new plot twist the author has added is totally crazy, but kind of makes sense. I just didn't see it coming. It is not where I thought this book was heading, but I like it.  I just wish the story was a little longer

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!

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 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.

Masquerade (Book 2 , Blue Bloods)

Summary:

"Schuyler Van Alen is starting to get more comfortable with her newfound vampire powers, but she still has many unanswered questions. A trip to Italy in search of her grandfather only serves to make things more confusing. What secrets are the leaders of The Committee hiding? Meanwhile, back in New York, preparations are feverishly underway for the famous Four Hundred Ball. In true Blue Blood fashion, the ball is totally fab, complete with masks—and hidden behind this masquerade is a revelation that will change the course of a young vampire’s destiny."

Plot: And the plot just keeps getting better and better! De La Cruz has an awesome way of transitioning thoughts and characters, while staying on the original dialogue. It is genius! The whole plot line is getting better, with twist and turns and plenty of progression.

Characters: There was a lot more focus of the development of the adult characters. Which I did like. And the development of Oliver's role, which in book one he was just kind of there and whiny and annoying, he has grown on me since.

Final Thoughts: I am ignoring the Pros and Cons, cause I feel the Pros come off quite well and that there aren't any cons to the book. I am SO in love with this book, SO much that I bought a box set of the 1st 3 books and the fourth book seperately cause I am THAT sure that I will LOVE this series. I have had a few books that I have enjoyed reading and cannot wait for the next book, but rarely (if the series is available already) have I finished a book and couldn't even wait until I got the next book. Even though, I can go and get them at the library (which is where I got the 1st 2) I wanted to OWN them. That is how sucked into this series I am and it is only book 2. I think for me, it is definitely the historical factor. I am a sucker for any book that can creatively add history. But not only do they have history but De La Cruz made it Paranormal. Then she add the forbidden love and this very modern take on the whole scenario. It is just book GOLD!

In My Mailbox (14)

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by The Story Siren

What you do in, In My Mailbox is share the books you received that week, it can be as gifts,for review,bought, from the library, etc. 

and this week is my 1st week not doing In My Mailbox is VLog form.

From The Library:

Cross My Heart and Hope to Spy By Ally Carter - This is the 2nd book in the Gallagher Girl series. I enjoyed the 1st one and am stoked to see the story continue. I also loved Heist Society by Ally Carter.

Masquerade By Melissa De La Cruz - Also, the 2nd book in the Blue Bloods Novels. I was really intrigued by the different take on Vampires in this series and am dying to know more!

Blue Bloods

Summary:

"De la Cruz has revamped traditional vampire lore in this story featuring a group of attractive, privileged Manhattan teens who attend a prestigious private school. Schuyler Van Alen, 15, the last of the line in a distinguished family, is being raised by her distant and forbidding grandmother. Schuyler, her friend Oliver, and their new friend Dylan are treated like outsiders by the clique of popular, athletic, and beautiful teens made up of Mimi Force, her twin brother, and her best friend. What they have in common is the fact that they are all Blue Bloods, or vampires. They don't realize that they aren't normal until they reach age 15. Then the symptoms manifest themselves and they begin to crave raw meat, have nightmares about events in history, and get prominent blue veins in their arms. Their immortality and way of life are threatened after Blue Blood teens start getting murdered by a splinter group called the Silver Bloods. This novel constantly name-drops and is full of product placements, drinking, drugs, nonexplicit sex, and superficial characterizations, but the intriguing plot will keep teens reading. De la Cruz's explanation for the disappearance of the Colony of Roanoke is unique and the idea that models don't gain weight because they are Blue Bloods rather than anorexic is unusual."

Plot: The plot is another new take on modern day Vampires, with a historical twist on it. I found the plot very intriguing and amusing. Nicely written and creative.

Characters: The characters are pretty much the basics, The Outsider who is actually kind of cute and special, The Outsiders best friend, The Rebel, The Heart Throb, The Beautiful Mean Girl, The Mean Girls Best Friend..who is actually nice. In that sense, the characters are pretty typical, yet well written enough to make them interesting.

Pros: Different approach, Intriguing

Cons: It was rushed when it came to the whole love thing, and it was hard to tell of what day it was, it seemed all rushed together.

Final Thoughts: Although I am getting tired of Vampires and stuff, I was really sucked into this book. I think it was the whole Reincarnation, flashback through history thing. I am a sucker for that kind of stuff. Then I found it hilarious how the idea that most of the beautiful, rich people in New York and around were Vampires. I am really excited to read the 2nd book in the series. 

In My Mailbox (11)

In My Mailbox is Hosted By The Story Siren

Library

Blue Bloods By Melissa De La Cruz

Tell You I'd Love You, But Then I'd Have To Kill You By Ally Carter

Paranormalcy By Kiersten White

Where She Went By Gayle Forman

Vixen By Jillian Larkin

Want Want Want Wednesday (17)

Want Want Want Wednesday is my own weekly meme where I talk about the books that I want to read and own!

The Book Thief By Markus Zusak

After seeing this book on SO many people's Top Ten Tuesday's this week and also having it recommended to me this week, I had to see what this book was about and once I read the book summary, I was hooked and knew immediately I MUST read it. I enjoy many books and historical books have a special place in my heart, but even more special is my odd fascination with the Holocaust.

"Zusak has created a work that deserves the attention of sophisticated teen and adult readers. Death himself narrates the World War II-era story of Liesel Meminger from the time she is taken, at age nine, to live in Molching, Germany, with a foster family in a working-class neighborhood of tough kids, acid-tongued mothers, and loving fathers who earn their living by the work of their hands. The child arrives having just stolen her first book–although she has not yet learned how to read–and her foster father uses it, The Gravediggers Handbook, to lull her to sleep when shes roused by regular nightmares about her younger brothers death. Across the ensuing years of the late 1930s and into the 1940s, Liesel collects more stolen books as well as a peculiar set of friends: the boy Rudy, the Jewish refugee Max, the mayors reclusive wife (who has a whole library from which she allows Liesel to steal), and especially her foster parents. Zusak not only creates a mesmerizing and original story but also writes with poetic syntax, causing readers to deliberate over phrases and lines, even as the action impels them forward. Death is not a sentimental storyteller, but he does attend to an array of satisfying details, giving Liesels story all the nuances of chance, folly, and fulfilled expectation that it deserves. An extraordinary narrative."

 The Witches of East End By Melissa De La Cruz

I saw this book on it's publisher's website (Hyperion) and was instantly drawn to it, read up on it and felt like it was a book I wold more then LOVE to read.

"The three Beauchamp women--Joanna and her daughters Freya and Ingrid--live in North Hampton, out on the tip of Long Island. Their beautiful, mist-shrouded town seems almost stuck in time, and all three women lead seemingly quiet, uneventful existences. But they are harboring a mighty secret--they are powerful witches banned from using their magic. Joanna can resurrect people from the dead and heal the most serious of injuries. Ingrid, her bookish daughter, has the ability to predict the future and weave knots that can solve anything from infertility to infidelity. And finally, there's Freya, the wild child, who has a charm or a potion that can cure most any heartache.
For centuries, all three women have been forced to suppress their abilities. But then Freya, who is about to get married to the wealthy and mysterious Bran Gardiner, finds that her increasingly complicated romantic life makes it more difficult than ever to hide her secret. Soon Ingrid and Joanna confront similar dilemmas, and the Beauchamp women realize they can no longer conceal their true selves. They unearth their wands from the attic, dust off their broomsticks, and begin casting spells on the townspeople. It all seems like a bit of good-natured, innocent magic, but then mysterious, violent attacks begin to plague the town. When a young girl disappears over the Fourth of July weekend, they realize it's time to uncover who and what dark forces are working against them.
With a brand-new cast of characters, a fascinating and fresh world to discover, and a few surprise appearances from some of the Blue Blood fan favorites, this is a page-turning, deliciously fun, magical summer read fraught with love affairs, witchcraft, and an unforgettable battle between good and evil."

Lost Voices By Sarah Porter

After SO many books about witches,wizards,vampires,and werewolves. It is nice to see a new mythical creature take center stage. Will it be the year of the Mermaids?! I am really excited to read this book, when I can get my hands on it! I have always found mermaids to be beautiful and mesmerizing, ever since Movies like The Little Mermaid, Splash and even though they were mean in the movie Peter Pan.

"Fourteen-year-old Luce has had a tough life, but she reaches the depths of despair when she is assaulted and left on the cliffs outside of a grim, gray Alaskan fishing village. She expects to die when she tumbles into the icy waves below, but instead undergoes an astonishing transformation and becomes a mermaid. A tribe of mermaids finds Luce and welcomes her in—all of them, like her, lost girls who surrendered their humanity in the darkest moments of their lives. Luce is thrilled with her new life until she discovers the catch: the mermaids feel an uncontrollable desire to drown seafarers, using their enchanted voices to lure ships into the rocks. Luce possesses an extraordinary singing talent, which makes her important to the tribe—she may even have a shot at becoming their queen. However her struggle to retain her humanity puts her at odds with her new friends. Will Luce be pressured into committing mass murder?"