October in Review

Books Read & Reviewed:
The Other Side: A Teen's Guide to Ghost Hunting and the Paranormal by Marley Gibson, Patrick Burns, and Dave Schrader
Defining Twilight by Brian Leaf
Anastasia's Secret by Susanne Dunlap
Prophecy of the Sisters by Michelle Zink
Give up the Ghost by Megan Crewe
Hero-Type by Barry Lyga
My Rotten Life by David Lubar
Jessica's Guide to Dating on the Darkside by Beth Fantaskey
Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater
If I Stay by Gayle Forman

Book Read, still to be reviewed:
Monster and Me by Robert Marsh
A Crooked Kind of Perfect by Linda Urban
The Zoo with the Empty Cage by Steve Brezenoff
Medina Hill by Trilby Kent

14 books! So-so for me.

In other news:

• I got married on October 24th! I have a video up on facebook and here is the slideshow I made and posted on my wedding day of past pictures of the two of us. Chris and I were dating for 5 years before we got hitched. Someone needs to bother me about posting pics up!
  
• Speaking of my husband, Chris wrote a review of Titanicus - a sci-fi book he read and let me post it up! Please leave him some comments so I can con him into writing more.
• I decided this month to participate in Misty's, The Book Rat, Halloween Challenge. Didn't come close to reading all the books I wanted to though...
• On Saturday, October 10th - I had my own little 6 hour read-a-thon. The idea was thought up by @stargirlreads on twitter whose blog is Books make great lovers! I couldn't participate in Dewey's read-a-thon since I was getting married...
• For Halloween, I created a list of all the paranormal/Halloween-y books I read recently.
• I started a new meme - most likely monthly (vote in the poll!) - called If I Had All Day To Read.

I need to catch up on my book signing stuff, so you are now going to be inundated with my latest book signing conquests!

This first one was from September, but I need to post it!

I went to a YA Book Conference, hosted by Anderson's Bookshop and met up with Andrea from Book Blather.

It was a full day event with four break-out sessions and then signings at the end. I bought too many books.. seriously.

Here's a list of authors that were there that day!
Judy Blundell
Libba Bray
Gennifer Choldenko
Ellen Hopkins
James Owen
Kaza Kingsley
Kerry Madden
Lisa Sandell
Jill Wolfson
Lisa Yee
Michelle Zink
Susan Fine
Jula Keller
Daniel Kraus
Cynthea Liu
Claire Zulkey

Here's a slideshow from that day:

Okay, next up - I saw Sarwat Chadda a few weeks back, author of The Devil's Kiss. Lo and behold, I was the only person who came besides the bookseller! So, Sarwat pulled up a chair and we had this awesome three person chat about books, research, his future novels, travels, etc. It was so freakin' cool. I feel a lot more at ease when it's that type of situation.

And I got a picture with him! I still have yet to read his book, but it's on my list, I swear!


I think I'm almost caught up.. maybe?


Okay, next up I went to John Green's signing! It was a freakin' mob! So many groupies that I felt so darn old (I'm only 25). It was a live show.. in LaGrange, IL. It's up on Penguin's POV website.

Last, but not least - I went with Erica from The Book Cellar over to Oak Park to see Stephanie Kuehnert - author of Ballads of Suburbia. You put Erica and I together and we're just so darn shy. We did both manage to ask a question each. There was a decent group - 10 to 15 people at the Borders for her signing.

And pictures!

The brownie I couldn't resist at the cafe - so pretty:


And... Stephanie and me!:


After this signing, Erica and I went to three other bookstores. An indie bookstore in Oak Park, where I saw James Dashner. I just had to show her it. Not only that - I knew they had some awesome bookmarks - so we snagged a ton!

We wanted a cookie and saw this cookie shop... little did we know it was for DOGS. I wondered what kind of cookies smelled like dog food.. #fail.

Then we headed to another Borders to search for something particular. And THEN Eric remembered there was a Half-Priced Bookstore on the way back to my place - so we HAD to stop. We are so bad.

And that's it for book signings this month! Going to one tomorrow - Justine Larbalester.

Thinking Ahead to December

Hi guys!

I've been thinking today about December. I'm one of those unfortunate people to have a birthday just days before Christmas - Dec. 20th - so I've been thinking of a fun way to celebrate my 25th birthday here on my blog.



So, I thought.. what better way then to have a huge giveaway blowout!

I have some books I can give away, but I wanted to do a giveaway each day up to my birthday. So, here's where you guys come in.

I'm not used to doing this but I would love anyone - bloggers, authors, publishers - to offer up a prize, if possible. Even if you've got some sort of swag pack to giveaway... as long as its book related.

If you're interested.... please contact me at dragonzgoil at gmail dot com.

And for the rest of you, I'm thinking up some ideas if I don't get any donations of prizes and hopefully it will still be amazing.

I may have to hold off on anymore contests until then if I don't get any interest - which is a-okay.

Anyways, thanks for considering and stay tuned for birthday fun in December!

I <3 Swagbucks

What is Swagbucks, you ask?

Only the most awesome thing EVER. All you do is use it as your search engine and randomly you'll get a buck here and there. They have a ton of prizes, the best of which I've found to be the $5 Amazon giftcard - for 45 swagbucks!

I've already gotten about 75 dollars in Amazon giftcards from Swagbucks to use on Amazon.com. Isn't that sweet?

Check it out guys...

Magic Study

Just as addicting, Maria V. Snyder's Magic Study will keep your attention and make you want more.

Magic Study
by Maria V. Snyder

Yalena heads back to Sitia to be reunited with the family she does not even remember. While her parents and sister are welcoming, her older brother Leif remains distant and suspicious of her sudden return. She is there to study and improve her magical skills. Of course, she meets the heir to Ixia's throne - all of his family who had been killed by Valek - and learns of his ambition to take back the throne with an army he cannot seem to gather.

Unfortunately, Yalena finds herself with new enemies but also new friends to aide her when she gets into trouble. She's used to having to rely on herself and cannot understand when her mentor Irys becomes angry over her stepping forward and trying everything on her own. Another plot comes into place later in the book - a killer who has claimed the life of 10 young woman and hunts for more. Little does Yalena know that the sinister plot involves more than just murder, but the lust for magic and power.


Again, we find Yalena in many sticky situations - some of her own devise - and others that did not come of her own thick-headedness. She seems to keep up her knack for plowing ahead without consulting anyone but herself. I love her willfullness and the way she is so brazen about her duty to help others. Yalena forgets the danger she is putting herself in and thinks only of the one she is trying to help.

Her interactions with Leif keep you wondering what will happen between them. Will Leif ever trust Yalena? Is there more to Leif's distrust and distancing? And there's a lot more fun evil guys - what is it with my obsession with these sadistic evil men who simply want to hurt Yalena or other young women.. hrm. Keeps the excitement peaked I guess.

Maria has yet again delivered a book that keeps you turning the pages, finding new twists and turns and a decent amount of violence. I am a violence junkie after all. . .

Now I'm dying for the third book.

5/5 Roses

Read chapter 1 of Magic Study over on Maria V. Snyder's website.

Leave a comment and add a #giveaway and get an extra point for the Maria V. Snyder Giveaway!

Poison Study

The first book in Maria V. Snyder's Study Series, Poison Study is a fantastic read that you will not want to put down. :-D

Poison Study
by Maria V. Snyder

Stolen from her home at a young age, Yalena was taken to Ixia where she was thrown into experiments - at first harmless tests of her magical ability. Magic is forbidden in Ixia, but in the home of General Brazell - he took in orphan children that had magical abilities. As Yalena became older, she realized that Brazell was not a fatherly figure, his tests turning into tortures until she was given up on. Brazell let his sadestic son - Reyad - have her and she killed him in self-defense.

Yalena has committed murder and the law calls for anyone found guilty - whether in self-defense, by accident, or on purpose - to be hung. Yet, Yalena finds herself in a position that she can't refuse. Instead of choosing the noose, she could elect to become the Commander's food taster - not knowing when she could be poisoned to death, but able to live longer. Yalena chooses life, but will she regret it?

I actually read this book a few years back and never continued on with the series although I had meant to. Even back then I fell in love with this book. Yalena is a strong young woman, mentally and later, with training, physically. She has gone through some horrible travesties - torture, rape, and other horrors.

The character of Valek - the spymaster and man in charge of the food taster - both intrigues and scares Yalena when they first meet. I love the complexity of his character and the way their interactions change over the course of their working together. There are more character, both good and evil, thrown into the story that move it along in such complete harmony that I couldn't put it down - even for a second time.

The fighting sequences and plot line guide the story along with great descriptions and twists. Maria is a fantastic writer and I can't believe I didn't continue on with the series when I had first read it. I'm glad that I have now seen the light.

5/5 Roses

Read chapter 1 of Poison Study over on Maria V. Snyder's website.

Leave a comment and add a #giveaway and get an extra point for the Maria V. Snyder Giveaway!

It's Monday, What are you reading?

J.Kaye hosts this wonderful meme.

Read this past week:
Jessica's Guide to Dating on the Dark Side by Beth Fantaskey
Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder (review to follow today)
Magic Study by Maria V. Snyder (review Tuesday)
When the Whistle Blows by Fran Cannon Slayton (review will be posted Sat.)

Currently Reading:
Ballads of Suburbia by Stephanie Kuehnert
Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl
Fire Study by Maria V. Snyder

Upcoming:
Cleopatra's Daughter by Michelle Moran
Storm Glass by Maria V. Snyder
Sea Glass by Maria V. Snyder


News:

• My wedding video is up on Facebook! Sorry about the lack of pictures this week, I'll try to get some up soon!
• Wednesday, November 4th I am seeing Justine Larbalestier at Anderson's Bookshop in Downers Grove, IL - hope to see some of you there!
• Sunday, November 8th I will be seeing Maria V. Snyder in Monroe, MI. Woot for road trips!
  
• Speaking of Maria V. Snyder - I'm having a week dedicated to Maria V. Snyder, involving a contest and some other fun stuff. Check out the details about the week (and the Mr. Linky) here. And find out more about the awesome contest.
  

IMM Vlog (10)

In My Mailbox is hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren.



For Review:
Invisible Lines by Mary Amato
Lost Worlds by John Howe

Mooched:
Book of Shadows (Sweep, bk. 1) by Cate Tiernana
Lipstick Apology by Jennifer Jabaley

Only four this week! :)
Maybe I'll catch up on my books to be read if I stop buying books.. whattya think?

Maria V. Snyder books Giveaway!

Well, my friend Alethea and I have joined forces to create this awesome giveaway for Maria V. Snyder week.

There are two prize packs for TWO different winners!

The Study Series
Poison Study
Magic Study
Fire Study

All of these will be signed/personalized by Maria for the winner!


The Glass Series
Storm Glass
Sea Glass
Cool glass-like glitter ball

Books will be signed/personalized by Maria for the winner!


Now for the RULES!

The Rules:
1. Open to US & Canada
2. Please include your email address with your comment(s).
3. Contest ends Thursday, November 5th at 11:59 pm CST
4. How to get points:

+1 simply leave a comment on which prize pack you want... or if you want both that's fine too.
+2 for being a follower of my blog
+2 for every time you advertise this contest.. twitter, blog, etc.

+5 for every blog post you link on the Mr. Linky for Maria V. Snyder week

I will keep track of the links, but you need to at least post here once saying which prize pack you want to be entered for.

Kicking off Maria V. Snyder week!

Welcome one and all to a glorious Sunday. Is everyone feeling great with this extra hour? I know I am.

So, starting today, I'm kicking off my Maria V. Snyder week. Who is Maria you ask?

Check out this bio below (taken from Maria's website):

Maria V. Snyder changed careers in 1995 from being a Meteorologist to a Novelist when she began working on her first novel, Poison Study. Published in October 2005, Poison Study won the 2006 Compton Crook Award for Best First Novel, won the Salt Lake Co. Library's Reader's Choice award, was a 2005 Booksense pick, was nominated for four other awards, and received a Starred Review from Publisher’s Weekly. She has also published numerous freelance articles in regional magazines and in local newspapers. Teaching fiction writing classes at the local college gives her the enjoyable opportunity to encourage novice writers and to keep improving her craft.

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Maria attended 12 years of catholic school before going to Penn State University to study Meteorology. Earning a Bachelors of Science degree in Meteorology, Maria discovered, much to her chagrin, that forecasting the weather wasn't one of her skills. She found employment in the environmental field as an air quality scientist, and it was during those years that she began writing. After writing many science fiction short stories, Maria started Poison Study, her first novel about a food taster.

Her research on food tasting methods with an expert chocolate taster, her husband, turned out to be a delicious bonus while writing Poison Study. Maria has a brown belt in Issinryu Karate, and has enjoyed "acting out" the complex fight scenes in her books. Playing volleyball, scrapbooking, and reading are her other hobbies.

Maria's second book, Magic Study was published in October 2006 and was a 2006 Booksense pick. Magic Study also finaled for the RITA Award. While researching for Magic Study, Maria made a few interesting discoveries. One is that if you’re going to learn how to ride a horse, it’s best to do it when you’re young and fearless. The other is that no matter who is holding the reins, the horse still has control.

Maria's third book, Fire Study was published in March 2008 and spent two weeks on the NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLERS LIST!. To research for Fire Study, Maria took a glass blowing class to learn how to work with molten glass. If you ever see a glass artist at work, know that it is considerably harder to sculpt glass than it looks. Maria now has an extensive collection of misshapened paperweights, tumblers, and bowls.

Maria's next book, Storm Glass is scheduled to be released on April 28, 2009. Writing Storm Glass combined two things Maria enjoys learning about, the weather and glass. She would love to be a Stormdancer, and be able to tame the wind--especially during hurricane season. The second book in the Glass series, Sea Glass is due out in September of 2009!

Traveling with her family is another wonderful distraction from writing. Maria loves cruising in general and the Caribbean in particular, and is planning a Caribbean trip in February 09. She has also been to Europe, Canada, Mexico, Belize, Costa Rica, and spent a week in Beijing, China.

Though still a weather nut at heart, Maria also wrote a middle grade reader titled, Storm Watcher, about a 13-year-old boy who is both fascinated and terrified of storms. Storm Watcher is tentatively scheduled for a fall 2009 release. Writing for young adults is another passion, and Maria's young adult science fiction thriller titled Inside Out is scheduled for a 2010 release. Adults will also enjoy reading Inside Out.

Maria lives with her family in Pennsylvania where she is at work on the third book in the Glass series. She has also earned a Master of Arts degree in Writing Popular Fiction from Seton Hill University. Maria would highly recommend this writing program to anyone interested in publishing a novel. A link for Seton Hill can be found in the "Links" section.


This week is going to be awesome because I love Maria's books and will be seeing her next Sunday in Monroe, Michigan. (Thank you Misty for telling me about this event!)

So here's the line up for this week:

Monday: Poison Study review
Tuesday: Magic Study review
Wednesday: Fire Study review
Thursday: Storm Glass review
Friday: Sea Glass review
Saturday: Find out more about Maria, her books, and other cool info.
Sunday: Book signing post (late at night most likely)

I may switch things up a bit and add some other cool stuff.

I wanted to put this out there - if anyone wants to contribute a guest post or has reviewed one of her books already and you want it posted on my blog during this week - please email me at dragonzgoil at gmail dot com.

If you are willing to participate in this event, just use the Mr. Linky as you post!

It can be as simple as a post about buying one of Maria's book and being psyched about reading it. And, you'll get extra points for each post you link up for the contest!

Sunday Spotlight - booktumbling

Today we have a new blogger who started blogging this summer, but her blog already looks like she's been doing this for years! Check her out below:

Name: Christine Zegelis
Nickname and/or blog name: booktumbling
Blog URL: http://booktumbling.com/



Tell me a bit about yourself.
I am a single mom of a wonderful 18 year old daughter, 2 dogs and 2 cats. I obviously love books and anything book/writing related (I didn't have to shop for school supplies for my daughter since my closet is basically an office supply warehouse).

When and why did you start your blog?
I started my blog on July 15th. Wow, seems longer than that! Why...well, I recently lost my job. It is a stressful time right now and books have always been a escape. I actually haven't had the time in the last few years to read as often as I would like, so I thought I would use some of my current extra time to fall in love with reading again. I was surfing along on the internet for book suggestions and reviews and was inspired by some of the book blogs I came across. I thought I would give it a go. What a great way to chronicle what you have read, what you thought about it and meet others with the same passion.

What is your blog all about? Any cool features you want to share?
My blog is mainly about books but not just reviews or giveaways. At least that is not my vision. I would like to also share book related news, information, updates...and I am sure a few personal tidbits will get thrown in the mix. I am excited because I see this as a work in progress and hope to develop my own voice in the book blogging world.

What are some of your favorite genres and/or books currently?
I am a horror fan but am pretty open to most genres. I am finding more science fiction and fantasy books that are peaking my interest. I haven't quite caught on to romance books but you never know. Currently I am trying to broaden my scope of authors and genres. Choosing books that seem off my beaten path.

How do you find out about the books you read?
I love to read reviews on other blogs and also the biggies - New York Times, NPR. I also love to just browse the bookstore, pick up a book, read the back cover and if it strikes a chord go home and check it out online. Or I may go all out and just buy it on the spot if it really stands out!

Any tips or advice for those starting or thinking about starting a blog?
I have a personal blog, mostly pictures of daughter, garden, dogs and cats and it is an easy one to update on a somewhat regular basis. Attempting a book blog is so much fun but does require some time I am finding out. Well worth it. Being so new at book blogging, it would be difficult to offer advice other then just go for it. I certainly did not sit a plan out every detail of what I wanted to do, I just started. I figure half the fun will be seeing how it grows!

Thank you Christine for sharing your blog! I really do think wordpress blogs are pretty. *sigh* Okay, leave her some comment love people!

Are you a new blogger too? Or just getting back into the swing of blogging? Do you want to be featured on my blog? Shoot me an email at bittahsweetharmony@yahoo.com.

Saturday Spotlight - Feed Your Imagination

First off... HAPPY HALLOWEEN! I have now been married for a week! I'm still alive... hehe.

I love finding bloggers with a similar name to mine.. Kristen.. Kristin.. so similar. But, also, her blog is rockin'! So read on to find out more!

Name: Kristin
Nickname and/or blog name: Feed Your Imagination
Blog URL: http://feedyourimagination.blogspot.com

Tell me a bit about yourself.

I don't think you all want to read on for pages, so even though I love to chat, I'll try to keep this on the short side. I'm a college student from New England who loves snow and palm trees equally, so I have no idea where I'll end up in a few years. The two things I love most are books and music, though I'll admit I'm one of those people who likes to be involved in as much as possible. I've been writing reviews since middle school (I remember my first ARC - Dancing in my Nuddy Pants by Louise Rennison), and am thrilled that even after all these years have passed, I still do.

When and why did you start your blog?
I started my blog in March 2009, though I admit I didn't really get into blogging until the end of May. I've been reading/following many other book blogs for quite awhile and spent and felt like it was about time I start one and get my thoughts out. Plus, I've always been really disorganized when it comes to keeping track of the reviews I've written, and having a blog makes that so much easier.

What is your blog all about? Any cool features you want to share?

I think reading is a way to live vicariously, so on my blog I like to highlight books that really suck you in. I mainly review YA books on my blog, but sometimes I'll review an adult book that I think is a good crossover (for example, Maria V. Snyder's Storm Glass). I participate in some of the more popular memes: In My Mailbox, Teaser Tuesday, and Waiting on Wednesday. On Fridays, since I believe music and books go along so well, I have Feed Your Ears posts, where I come up with playlists to go with books. Once a month, I have the Flashback of the Month where I review a book that's not a recent publication and that doesn't receive the attention it should. I've also started hosting contests and did my first author interview in mid August.

Do you have a review system? If you do, would you like to explain it for us?
Well, generally my reviews are two to three paragraphs in length. The first paragraph will include my own summary of the book, and then one to two paragraphs of my opinion. At the end of every review, I give the book a rating between 1 and 10. If I don't like a book, I will give a negative review, but I always try to be fair in my judgments.

Any tips or advice for those starting or thinking about starting a blog?

Simple: do it for yourself. Start a blog because you love reading and want to share that love. This way you'll never (or hopefully never) be disappointed.

What are some of your favorite genres and/or books currently?

Oh boy. I'll stick with favorite genres, because favorite books would be way too long a list. So right now I'm pretty obsessed with fantasy and historical fiction, as well as anything with some romance and/or a mystery.

Thank you Kristin for sharing your blog with us today! Make sure to stop by and give her a comment or two folks!

Are you a new blogger too? Or just getting back into the swing of blogging? Do you want to be featured on my blog? Shoot me an email at bittahsweetharmony@yahoo.com.

If I had all day to read...

So, I am now going to attack my TBR pile and find the paranormal books I would've liked to get to before Halloween. And then, if I have energy, to name my most desired wanted paranormal books.

Ah Halloween you have come so fast...

Vampire/Other Immortals Books
Pretty Dead by Francesca Lia Block
Sucks to be Me by Kimberly Pauley
Another Faust by Daniel and Dina Nayeri

Werewolves/Shapeshifters Books
Stray by Rachel Vincent
Rogue by Rachel Vincent

Ghosts and out of body experiences Books
Ghost Huntress: The Awakening by Kate Harmon and Marley Gibson
Ghost Huntress: The Guidance by Kate Harmon and Marley Gibson
Nothing but Ghosts by Beth Kephart

Demons/Curses/Prophecies
Fallen by Lauren Kate
The Demon's Kiss by Sarwat Chadda

Witches/Psychics/Other Weird Powers
Wicked series by Nancy Holder
Possessions by Nancy Holder
Witch Child by Celia Rees
The Demon King by Cinda Williams Chima
My Soul to Take by Rachel Vincent
War of the Witches by Maite Carranza
Once a Witch by Carolyn MacCullough

Fairies/Pixies/other Fey creatures
Ballad by Maggie Stiefvater
Selina Penaluna by Jan Page
Eyes Like Stars by Lisa Mantchev

Angels/Celestials
Evil? by Timothy Carter
School's Out-Forever by James Patterson
Meridian by Amber Kizer

Yep, all of those are sitting around, waiting to be read. *sigh* So many books, so little time...

Link a Contest Thursday!

Nearly forgot to schedule this post! Things are hectic with moving stuff from one apartment to the next. Big move is the 14th, but I'm trying to get a few boxes over of books to start unpacking. :) New place is much better and bigger. :)

And yay for contests!

Rules (or at least STRONG suggestions):
1. Name the item being given away (instead of the blog name)
2. Give the end date in () after the name
3. Make sure to link DIRECTLY to that contest post - if you don't know how to do this - just click on the title of the contest blog and it will give a direct URL you can use.
4. If you want to post a contest you've found, make sure it isn't already posted.

Thanks!

And please steal this! Not all my followers will be following your blog, so if you spread the contest love with a Mr. Linky, all the better for contest-loving-bloggers!

Vampires, Werewolves and Witches! Oh My!

Well, Halloween is RIGHT around the corner and we all know that I love my paranormal books. So, I wanted to share some faves with you of different books featuring different, otherworldly creatures. Been meaning to do this all month, but I'm buckling down - a few days before Halloween.

Sadly, my costume for school is a wee bit lame - I'm going to be the Cat in the Hat! I may not be brave enough to get a photo. It's a bit of a makeshift outfit due to my lack of planning...

Okay, so onto the book fun - I keep digressing. These are all YA. I do read some paranormal romance - so if you're aching for those titles - send me an email. :-D

Vampire/Other Immortals Books
Jessica's Guide to Dating on the Dark Side by Beth Fantaskey
Raven by Alison Van Diepen
Tantalize by Cynthia Leitich Smith
Evermore by Alyson Noel
Evernight by Claudia Gray
The Otherworldlies by Jennifer Anne Kogler

Werewolves/Shapeshifters Books
Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater
Mercedes Thompson series by Patricia Briggs (adult)

Zombie Books
My Rotten Life by David Lubar
The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan
Generation Dead by Daniel Waters
My Swordhand is Singing by Marcus Sedgwick

Ghosts and out of body experiences Books
If I Stay by Gayle Forman
Give Up the Ghost by Megan Crewe
The Other Side
ghostgirl by Tanya Hurley

Demons/Curses/Prophecies
Prophecy of the Sisters by Michelle Zink
The Demon's Lexicon by Sarah Rees Brennan
The Princess and the Hound by Mette Ivie Harrison
The Princess and the Bear by Mette Ivie Harrison

Witches/Psychics/Other Weird Powers
Bras & Broomsticks by Sarah Mlynowski
Frogs & French Kisses by Sarah Mlynowski
The Summoning by Kelley Armstrong
Once Dead, Twice Shy by Kim Harrison
Midnighters series by Scott Westerfeld

Fairies/Pixies/other Fey creatures
Violet Wings by Victoria Hanley
Lament: The Faerie Queen's Deception by Maggie Stiefvater
Need by Carrie Jones
Wildwood Dancing by Juliet Marillier
The Waters & the Wild by Francesca Lia Block
Wondrous Strange by Lesley Livingston
Wicked Lovely by Melissa Marr
Fragile Eternity by Melissa Marr

Angels/Celestials
Hush, Hush by Becca Fitzpatrick
Eternal by Cynthia Leitich Smith (also vampires)
The Angel Experiment by James Patterson

Paranormal compilations:
Vacations from Hell
Prom Nights from Hell
Love is Hell



I could add a bazillion more, but I'm trying to restrict myself. I just love my paranormal. I'm going to try to post my list of wants to read, but couldn't get to this month - in the supernatural range.

Enjoy!

Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater

Shiver
by Maggie Stiefvater

Grace has been fascinated with the wolves near her home since she was attacked by them as a child. Especially the yellow-eyed wolf who saved her - her wolf. While she's always known there is more to the wolves, it is not until Sam is shot as a wolf and turned back into a human too close to winter, that Grace has proof of the truth.

Grace and Sam have a connection years old, one that starts to flame as they spend every moment together. Sam knows his time as a human is fading fast, that he may never change again once he's a wolf that winter. Will Grace just let Sam go that easily? Or is there a way she can save him so they can be together forever?

I absolutely loved this book. There was a passion between Sam and Grace that would not have made sense - but told from both of their perspectives in alternating chapters, it simply works. I'm really looking forward to the next book because this one ended so open-ended. I had so many questions and emotions by the end of the book that I simply crave more of Sam and Grace's story.

A definite 5/5 Roses.

Waiting on Wednesday - Forget Her Nots

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

Forget-Her-Nots
by Amy Brecount White
Release Date: March 2, 2010

When someone leaves three mystery flowers outside her dorm door, Laurel thinks that maybe the Avondale School isn't so awful after all — until her own body starts to freak out. In the middle of her English presentation on the Victorian Language of Flowers, strange words pop into her head, and her body seems to tingle and hum. Impulsively, Laurel gives the love bouquet she made to demonstrate the language to her spinster English teacher. When that teacher unexpectedly and immediately finds romance, Laurel suspects that something — something magical — is up. With her new friend, Kate, she sets out to discover the origins and breadth of her powers by experimenting on herself and others. But she can’t seem to find any living experts in the field of flower powers to guide her. And her bouquets don't always do her bidding, especially when it comes to her own crush, Justin. Rumors about Laurel and her flowers fly across campus, and she's soon besieged by requests from girls — both friends and enemies — who want their lives magically transformed — just in time for prom.

Jessica's Guide to Dating on the Dark Side

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

Jessica is an average farm girl. She shovels out horse stalls, flirts with the cute boy next door and tries to get by as being normal in high school. All of that changes when Lucius Vladescu shows up - her supposed vampire betrothed. Which, Lucius is hot - but Jess thinks he's crazy for saying he is a vampire.

But is Jess the crazy one for resisting the sexy Romanian young man who tries to swoon her off the bat? But how long can you push away a vampire without getting bitten?

I absolutely loved this book. Another audio for me and let me tell you, Lucius' voice was very well done and made my heart thud that much faster when his voice came on. You get the greatest view of both Jessica and Lucius and why they do what they do. Jess through the general narration and Lucius through the letters he writes to his uncle in Romania.

Lucius is my ideal picture of a vampire, with glimpses of a human soul, but also the ability to be cold in a way that he can distance himself from all emotion and attachment. And the sex appeal... well that was dead-on.

If you're looking for a good vampire read - without the flighty annoying female role - check this book out. Jessica has flaws as a character and strengths as well. I liked watching her change throughout the course of the book into more of a regal vampire than American teenage girl.

Definitely an entertaining read.

5/5 Roses

I have yet to read this myself, but to read more of the story of Jessica and Lucius - after you read this delectable book of course - go to Beth Fantaskey's website and check out the wedding!

If I Stay by Gayle Forman

If I Stay
by Gayle Forman

Mia wakes up from an accident - a bad car accident. What she soon realizes is that she's not quite herself anymore. Her body is in a coma and she is free to roam and watch all angles of what is happening. Her parents are dead and her little brother in bad condition. What Mia has to decide is if there is a life, if she wants one, without her family.

Will her boyfriend and other family be enough to make her decide to stay. Or will she be better off with her family, on the other side. Mia must decide whether or not she stays or goes.

This mind-blowing, tear-jerking novel was an enchantment. I was immersed in the story, into Mia's character - completely and totally. I couldn't wait to finish the audiobook - performed by the marvelous Kirsten Potter.

If ever you need some deep, moving novel - this should be the one you pick up. The book left me nearly wordless and I hope I am describing it in a light that makes it so. When you read it, you'll know exactly what I mean.

5/5 Roses

For out of body experiences:

It's Monday, What are you reading? + IMM (Mailbox Monday)

J.Kaye hosts this wonderful meme.

Read this past week: (I haven't reviewed either of them)
Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater
Medina Hill by Trilby Keny

Currently Reading:
Ballads of Suburbia by Stephanie Kuehnert
Jessica's Guide to Dating the Dark Side by Beth Fantaskey (audio)
Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl

Upcoming:
Cleopatra's Daughter by Michelle Moran
When the Whistle Blows by Fran Slayton




And now for my late IMM - which could be considered Mailbox Monday (but I have no clue who hosts that and am too lazy to figure it out!).




Books Mooched:
Mates, Dates, and Sleepover Secrets by Cathy Hopkins
Witch Child by Celia Rees

For Review:
Possessions by Nancy Holder
Wicked: Witch & Curse by Nancy Holder
Wicked: Legacy & Spellbound by Nancy Holder
Wicked: Resurrection by Nancy Holder
Pretty Little Devils by Nancy Holder

Books Won:
Evil? by Timothy Carter
The Hanging Hill by Chris Grabenstein

Books Bought:
Magic Lessons by Justine Larbalestier
Magic or Madness by Justine Larbalestier

Coming home

I'm going to be heading home today - possibly checking my email tonight. I'm sure we had a great time, but please give me a week or so before begging off pictures. I'm going to work tomorrow because I'm absolutely nuts.

So, today, I wanted to do some fun love-centered stuff to deal with books. I had a ton of great suggestions from people when I asked what to do post-wise for over my wedding weekend.

So, first of all, I want to celebrate some of my favorite books that deal with love and growing up - seeing as marriage is a rite of passage.

Here's how it breaks down:
1. Bloody Jack series by L.A. Meyer
2. Dangerous Angels by Francesca Lia Block
3. Song of the Lioness series by Tamora Pierce
4. If I Stay by Gayle Forman
5. Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder
6. Aurelia by Anne Osterlund
7. Tiger Moon by Antonia Michaelis
8. Beastly by Alex Flinn
9. Reincarnation by Suzanne Weyn
10. I, Coriander by Sally Gardner

I'm very weird about my romances. I like my female characters strong and able to resist the men that love them - at least until they realize they love them back. All of these books have some satisfying romance in them - twists that make the story what it is. If you haven't heard of some of these, I suggest you look into them.


Next, I want to ask you guys some questions... we had a really nice backyard wedding, with a cake and punch reception and our honeymoon only 3 hours away in a cute historic town - staying in our own 1 bedroom villa.

If you were getting married, or were able to redo your wedding you already had...

What would be your dream wedding?

What would be your dream honeymoon?

Do you have colors in mind? (Ours were cream, burnt orange, and brown)


Also, please share your favorite books that deal with romance, love and life journeys...

Sunday Spotlight - Book Dragon's Lair

We've got a fun book lover here, but beware, if you get near her hoard of books, she may breathe fire at you! :) I really do love her Blog name.

Name: Gina
Nickname and/or blog name: Gina Marina or Bookdragon, because books are a treasure worth protecting
Blog URL: mybookdragon.blogspot.com

Tell me a bit about yourself.
I can't remember a time when I was reading. I live in SoCal with a wonderful, and understanding, husband and the last of the kids. I read, do thread/yarn crafts, read, quilt, sew (yes, they're different), and read. :-) I like music & movies, am learning to love the gym but it is more of a love/hate relationship - Kind of like what I have with the washer and dryer.

I am not a writer but do have five works in progress. I'm much more comfortable talking about or reading books then I'm writing them but sometimes the characters won't leave me alone.

When and why did you start your blog?

My first post at the above blog was January 4, 2009. I discovered book challenges, I had several other blogs but I wanted one that would be just books. I try to limit off topic postings. Most recently it was a warning that I'd be missing in action due to my daughter's wedding, then a vacation.


What is your blog all about? Any cool features you want to share?

Books, books and more books. I'm such a book blog newbie that my paint isn't dry yet. There are several weekly events happening all over the blogosphere and I'm trying a few. One of my favorites is Teaser Tuesday - where I tease you with a taste of a current read.

I'm a new reviewer so I'm trying to get interviews from, or articles by, authors of the books sent to me.

I get so involved with the book that when I finish, I sigh, reflect and move on. Forgetting the review part! I am getting better but most of my January reads won't get reviewed, it was too long ago.

What are some of your favorite genres and/or books currently?

My profile says, "Someone once asked if I had a favorite book and I laughed. I can't even narrow it down to one favorite author..." I read almost anything but really like Romance and Young Adult. Oh, and fantasy, and cozy mysteries, and thrillers, and ... well, you get the idea.

How do you find out about the books you read?

Other blogs, emails, amazon's "you might like", just wandering around the bookstore/area, library or net. Sometimes friends & family tell me about books. Sometimes I'll see someone reading and ask about the book.


Any tips or advice for those starting or thinking about starting a blog?

Read, read, read other blogs. I may have had a different address or even not been at blogger but I had already signed up for several challenges. Visit, comment, ask questions.

Update regularly with interesting/weird/funny stuff so we have a reason to visit you. Regularly doesn't need to be daily, just don't leave us hanging for weeks at a time.

Think about your audience. Do you want to be about one specific thing, will you ramble around and touch on all the things happening in your life, or maybe a combination of the two. Your address and blog title/description should reflect that.

Visit others, and comment, and they may visit you. Be friendly but know that we're a community and there are some "neighbors" who do things we may not like. Don't be one ;-) Basically, comment nice or at least own up to it. We can disagree on each others opinion or point of view but we shouldn't attack each other. You know, general good behavior kinds of things. Do what your mom said when you were the new kid on the block, "Just get out there and play". Someone will come play with you.


It's great to see some older bloggers who love YA books! Thank you Gina for sharing your blog with us today!

Are you a new blogger too? Or just getting back into the swing of blogging? Do you want to be featured on my blog? Shoot me an email at bittahsweetharmony@yahoo.com.

Chris' Corner - Titanicus

Today, I am featuring Chris' first review for my blog - despite his protests (he doesn't have any but this one written - what a slacker... :) ). It is our wedding weekend and I told him he must contribute to my blog posts this weekend.

So, here we go - please leave him nice, appreciative comments - he is my husband now.

Titanicus
by Dan Abnett

"Gristle-faced and lipless, the regiments of the dead howl out their awful calumny as your footfall passes. Dun smoke fills the massive cavity of space. Oh machine! Oh divine engine! Furnace hot the welter of your combustion, buckling the rancid air of heaven's arch and fusing the mould of the ground to glass. Do you ever really sleep? In the long between-times, in the silences wasted in oily holds and scaffold frames, do you sleep then? When the enginseers reduce you to dormancy, is that sleep for you? Do you dream then, great engine?
What do you dream about?"
- Dan Abnett's Titanicus

I like Dan Abnett's work. The Eisenhorn Trilogy was great. The Ravenor Trilogy, also good. But nothing could of prepared me for this book, this masterpiece of, quite possibly, the Black Library's best author. I can describe it in a word, in fact. Just one word can describe this superb bundle of printed paper:

Wow.

Now obviously this wouldn't be much of a review if it was one word, but that word carries with it everything I took away from finishing this book. I sat there, completely satisfied, no question in my mind that I had just finished the best Dan Abnett novel I have yet read. But I am getting ahead of myself... the story goes a little something like this...

The vital forge world of Orestes is under attack by chaos legions, and it looks as if nothing can stop them. But this is no ordinary Chaos horde. This is a Chaos Titan legio, the Dark Mechanicus, the heretical reflection of the noble worshippers of the Machine God. Orestes' own Titan legion, Tempestus, is in tatters, its armored divisions in flames, and its Planetary Defense Forces stretched to the limits of a war that was never meant for ordinary men. It is a dark hour indeed, as the Chaos Titans march closer and closer to Hive Principal, the planetary capital and home of the Imperial goverment.

But hope arrives in the form of Legio Invicta, a titan force returning from a war of its own. Although in need of repairs and refitting, Invicta responds to Orestes' urgent call for help, ignoring their Warmaster's summons and deploying in defense of the forge world. Spirits soar and the fighting finally turns in Orestes' favor. But this battle is just beginning, and it is far from certain if Invicta can make enough of a difference to save Orestes from certain doom. From without, Invicta and Tempestus are still outnumbered, and from within, a truth is discovered that will shake the very foundation of the Cult Mechanicus's faith. And even if they win, what will become of the planet that has felt the full fury of an Engine war that has not been seen in ten millenia? The story follows a number of different characters, from the mighty and noble Princeps Maximus Gearhart, the master of Legio Invicta, to the lowly PDF teritary reservist Cally Samsteg, who just wants to survive long enough to go home to her loving husband. And, being a Warhammer 40k novel, the action is intense, and the battles scaled to epic heights as the first novel (that I know of) that has Imperial Titans as the main focus of combat.

Titanicus does a very good job of not only giving us the full majesty of the Titan's awesome size and firepower, but of the very human crews that pilot them. And while the focus is on the Titans, Titanicus doesn't forget the little people, who have battles to fight just as tough and (often) violent as their monstrous counterparts. Details are in abundant supply, and while some of Abnett's work can feel like a grinding lesson in vocabulary, I felt more like I was walking through a living, breathing representation of a Forge world rather than struggling through it. Titanicus proves that the Mechanicus is more than just the sum of their (machine) parts, and shows us a side of them that is all too human, for better or worse.

I can't think of a single thing that could of made this book better. A few story arcs are left open (possible sequel?), but in a good way, and the plot will keep you guessing until the end, with a few surprises along the way. I finished Titanicus with a smile on my face, and I hope you will too.

Titanicus gets 5 burning enemy Chaos Reaver husks out of 5.

Wedding Day!

Hi everyone!

Today is the most special day of my life - I'm marrying the man I met nearly 5 years ago. We were just teenagers then - he was 16 and I was 19. Now we're 21 and 24 and more in love than ever.

Cross your fingers for good weather because we're outside for the ceremony and then inside for the longer reception.

So, today, I wanted to give you a guys a bit of an inside into our lives - through a photo slideshow! I hope you enjoy this and please leave lots of comments. My laptop is staying home for our two-day honeymoon afterwards. Don't want to be distracted by you guys ;).

So, sit back and enjoy the journey I've taken over the past few years with my sweet husband. How strange and beautiful to say that word now... :)

Link a Contest Thursday!

So... it's that time again.. where you link your contest to promote it and so others can enter!

Quick update first: The wedding is on SATURDAY! I actually have stuff scheduled for that weekend blog-wise so you will be entertained. The laptop gets a three day vacation to sleep in our apartment - but I will be bringing 2 or 3 books. Got most everything done, just praying for good weather. :-D

Okay, back to contests!

Rules (or at least STRONG suggestions):
1. Name the item being given away (instead of the blog name)
2. Give the end date in () after the name
3. Make sure to link DIRECTLY to that contest post - if you don't know how to do this - just click on the title of the contest blog and it will give a direct URL you can use.
4. If you want to post a contest you've found, make sure it isn't already posted.

Thanks!

And please steal this! Not all my followers will be following your blog, so if you spread the contest love with a Mr. Linky, all the better for contest-loving-bloggers!

Waiting on Wednesday - Magic Under Glass

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

Magic Under Glass
by Jacyln Dolamore
Release Date: February 1, 2010

Nimira is a music-hall performer forced to dance for pennies to an audience of leering drunks. When wealthy sorcerer Hollin Parry hires her to do a special act - singing accompaniment to an exquisite piano-playing automaton, Nimira believes it is the start of a new life. In Parry's world, however, buried secrets stir. Unsettling below-stairs rumours abound about ghosts, a mad woman roaming the halls, and of Parry's involvement in a gang of ruthless sorcerers who torture fairies for sport. When Nimira discovers the spirit of a dashing young fairy gentleman is trapped inside the automaton's stiff limbs, waiting for someone to break the curse and set him free, the two fall in love. But it is a love set against a dreadful race against time to save the entire fairy realm, which is in mortal peril.

Contest alert!

Hi guys,

I know you've seen a lot of the Vampire's Assistant giveaways out there in the blogosphere. I wanted to point out one that ends next week that only has 12 entries! So, right now your chances are pretty good at winning.

Bianca from A Place for Wicked Good Books is hosting the contest and c'mon guys.. free books! I already won a copy, otherwise I'd be entering a bunch more. :)

So, please check out the contest for this awesome 3 in 1 book!

Mental Health Day

Since my wedding is Saturday, I decided to take a "mental health" day today. Because, frankly, I have a ton of stuff to do - most of it not wedding related, but some of it is.

So, I figured I'd post about all the stuff I need to get done today while I'm home "sick".

1. Bridal Shower thank-you cards, while watching True Blood
   
2. Package up mooch books and PotS prize
   
3. Visit the post office and mail everything out.
4. Call electric, gas, AT&T, and renters insurance companies to set up stuff for new apartment
   
5. Pack some more boxes for moving
6. Do dishes while listening to Jessica's Guide to Dating on the Dark Side
7. Run errands - need milk, door stops, stamps, pencil sharpner, snacks for trip, and my wedding band
   
8. Start packing for honeymoon - books, snacks (NO laptop...)
   
9. Scan pictures for slideshow and set that up.
10. Catch up on blog posts - 4-5 reviews, 4-5 author signings
11. Schedule remaining Spotlight posts and then wedding posts
12. Finish one of the books I'm reading - Shiver or Ballads of Suburbia
    
13. Go to Cinda Williams Chima's book signing if I get EVERYTHING done.

The question is ... I have about 9 or 10 hours.. can I get everything done and go to Cinda's signing? We shall see... Now to find my packing tape!

It's Monday, What are you reading?

J.Kaye hosts this wonderful meme.

Click on titles for my reviews or more info on the book.

I read 3 this week, two were audiobooks.


Read this past week: (I haven't reviewed ANY of them - so bad of me)
A Crooked Kind of Perfect by Linda Urban (audio)
If I Stay by Gayle Forman
The Zoo with the Empty Cage by Steve Brezenoff

Currently Reading:
Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater
Ballads of Suburbia by Stephanie Kuehnert
Jessica's Guide to Dating the Dark Side by Beth Fantaskey (audio)

Upcoming:
Cleopatra's Daughter by Michelle Moran
Medina Hill by Trilby Keny
When the Whistle Blows by Fran Slayton

Updates:

• So, I'm sort of throwing the poll out this week, because I actually will be giving away two packs of books for Maria V. Snyder week! One will be her Study series and the other is her Glass series with a shiny glass-like glitter ball. Alethea from Read Now Sleep Later is helping me out with this - because she loves Maria even more than I do!
• I'm slowly working on posts for my wedding weekend. Need to scan a few more pictures.
  
• I went to three signings last week - James Dashner, John Greene, and Stephanie Kuehnert. Again, I only posted about James' - I'm WAY behind. I may catch up a bit this week.. not sure!
  
• I think I'm going to skip Cinda Williams Chima's signing on Tuesday because I'm taking a mental health day and I really think I need the whole day to do stuff for the wedding.
  
• I need to go to sleep after I schedule this post - my weekend was NUTS!
  

My Rotten Life

My Rotten Life
(Nathan Abercrombie, Accidental Zombie)
by David Lubar

Nathan isn't the coolest kid in the class - not even close. In fact, he was having a pretty bad day until he decides to look into his friend's crazy uncle's experimental Hurt-Be-Gone - only it accidentally gets poured all over him. There was one fatal error in the concoction - instead of using the corpus flower, he had used the corpse flower, and now, Nathan is slowly becoming undead - a zombie.

But life as a zombie isn't half bad. He doesn't need to use his lungs any more so gym class is no sweat. He can't feel any pain so if a bully hits him, what does he care? Nathan has to decide if it's worth taking the cure or not.


I really enjoyed this book - it had enough gross-ness to appeal to boys, a funny enough plot to appeal to boys and girls, and great themes - friendship, bullying, and what's important in life or undead.

The characters were interesting and the plot kept you turning the page. I almost expected the ending, just because it seemed to work out a little too perfectly to be the end of the first book.

Overall, a fantastic read - right in time for Halloween.

5/5 Roses