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What I'm Waiting on Today...

>> Wednesday, December 28, 2011





This awesome weekly meme is hosted by breakingthespine. The book I am dying to get my hands on as soon as possible is...





Who would have guessed that four minutes could change everything?

Today should be one of the worst days of seventeen-year-old Hadley Sullivan's life. She's stuck at JFK, late to her father's second wedding, which is taking place in London and involves a soon to be step-mother that Hadley's never even met. Then she meets the perfect boy in the airport's cramped waiting area. His name is Oliver, he's British, and he's in seat 18C. Hadley's in 18A.

Twists of fate and quirks of timing play out in this thoughtful novel about family connections, second chances and first loves. Set over a 24-hour-period, Hadley and Oliver's story will make you believe that true love finds you when you're least expecting it.

Ahhh.. I feel like people have been talking about this book for forever! It sounds like such a cute, fun read. And seriously, I am obsessed with their names. Hadley and Oliver? So precious! I just put my order in for this book so I should be receiving it very soon! :)
What about you? What are you waiting on?

Taylor

Read more...

Bookish Bullets

>> Friday, December 23, 2011

  • I was going to do a Follow Friday post, however, I didn't really feel like it. And while it is a great way for us to grow our blog, I also think it is important to show some individuality and personality on the blog as well!
  • I just finished my first book in verse, The Day Before by Lisa Schroeder. Heading to the library tomorrow to borrow more to devour. 
  • Not that I need to get any more books from the library as my current TBR pile looks like this..
Yeah.. I got a little ambitious when packing for Winter break. Books on the right are library books and the two piles on the left are mine. I need help!
  •  Currently reading Uglies by Scott Westerfeld. With my love for dystopians I feel like it is a classic series I must read!
  • Love when I open up the blog and see when my amazing co-blogger Rebekah has posted something completely awesome on the blog. We really have no system for posting right now. It's just kind of whoever feels like it! It works!
  • Last thing.. I am just so thankful for all 58 followers we have now. We would not have the encouragement to keep blogging without y'all! Let us know anything we can review or give advice on so we can help our blogger friends out as much as possible!
I suppose that is all for now. I guess the point of bullet points is to keep it short and simple... but hey, this is a blog about words.. in books.. so i guess being a little wordy isn't that big of a deal!

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hey, i've watched that book before...

>> Thursday, December 22, 2011

We all know that Hollywood loves to take our beloved novels and turn them into multi-million dollar blockbusters, some bad, some really bad, and some actually pretty good.


I could make lists of all the "terrible awful" ones...but it's Christmas, eh? Let's spread a little hope.

Here's a few upcoming book to movie adaptions that I'm praying (pretty hopeful) will be kind...


1. The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo. Yeah I'm putting this at the top of the list because I'm in the middle of the series right now and my palms are sweating just thinking about it.....yikes. I'm absolutely terrified to see this, but not because I think it'll bad. Quite on the contrary. Some of those scenes are going to be too much too watch. If you've read it you know. I haven't seen the Swedish version, but I've definitely heard. 
Release date: December 21, 2011


2. The Hunger Games. If you haven't seen this trailer.........
Some are skeptical about a few of the casting choices. I'm not. Jennifer Lawrence is spot on. If you have seen her in Winter's Bone, you know she is more than capable. 
Release date: March 23, 2012
May the odds be ever in OUR favor




3. The Great Gatsby. I'm such a Leo fan that I might be too biased already. I have high hopes for this adaption. But I've also heard something ridiculous about it being some 3D spectacular. Please, no. One of my favorite books of all time.
Release date: Christmas 2012


4. The Hobbit. What's a good book-to-movie list without a hobbit? I've failed to read LOTR but I HAVE READ THE HOBBIT. I promise. The others are on a list to be read....PROMISE.
Meanwhile...who is excited???
Release date: Part one - December 14, 2012  Part two - December 13, 2013





Comments? Hopes? Fears? Just let it out. 






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Top Ten Books I Hope Santa Brings

>> Monday, December 19, 2011






   



Okay, I'm not sure what the heck is wrong with blogger right now! It took me forever to get these pictures in a way that would look at all organized and now it won't let me type above them. I need some serious help with this whole blogger thing- still. Anyways, all of these books look amazing and I hope to get my hands on them soon!

I'm curious to see what everyone else is hoping for this Christmas! Let me know in the comments below!




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Review: The Day Before by Lisa Schroeder


Reviewer: Taylor
Author: Lisa Schroeder
Published: June 28 2011
Source: Library
Series: no
Pages: 307
Rating: 5/5
 
Amber’s life is spinning out of control. All she wants is to turn up the volume on her iPod until all of the demands of family and friends fade away. So she sneaks off to the beach to spend a day by herself.

Then Amber meets Cade. Their attraction is instant, and Amber can tell he’s also looking for an escape. Together they decide to share a perfect day: no pasts, no fears, no regrets.

The more time that Amber spends with Cade, the more she’s drawn to him. And the more she’s troubled by his darkness. Because Cade’s not just living in the now—he’s living each moment like it’s his last.

Summary taken from Goodreads


Wow.
That is all I can say right now.
w
o
w

I picked up this book on a whim during my last library trip. I recognized it's spine while perusing the lovely spines of all the books. I remembered it was written in verse, and I thought, why the heck not? It's time I give this whole verse thing a try.

And I am so g l a d I did!

This book follows our main character Amber as she is trying desperately to just have a day for herself before everything changes. For a while, we know nothing. I was so confused as to why she was running, why she seemed so depressed, and where she was going. Slowly, though, more answers are revealed shedding light on Amber's current situation and her way of coping. And may I say, her situation was definitely not what I was expecting. But, that is all I will say about that!

(I am always afraid to spoil things for you all! So I am always ever so careful.)

Soon into the book, Amber meets Cade. Oh, Cade. Yes, we only know each other for less than 24 hours, but how easy it is to fall for the sweet and handsome, yet, broken, boy. The time they spend together is beautiful. Learning so much from one another. Ahh, I just can't explain how much I loved it! 

I really don't want to give anything else away- but let me just tell you this- READ THIS BOOK. If you have never read a book written in verse, seriously, this would be a great one to start with. Obviously, it was a hit for me.

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IMM (6)

>> Sunday, December 18, 2011

Hello lovely readers! So happy and thrilled you took the time to check out our blog and what we got this week. I had a great haul from the library, however I am on vacation and only have 2 with me! I will save the others for next week's IMM post, though. Also- first time blogging from my phone since I have no wifi. Hope it turns out okay! So without further ado (is that how you spell that? Probably should look that up...), my books!

Variant by Robison Wells (about halfway through and LOVING it.. Maze Runner feel but not so creepy!)
The Day Before by Lisa Schroeder (first book in verse! I'm picking this one up next)

Also-update on my reading pile! Just finished reading Past Perfect by Leila Sales, and also Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver on audio! Reviews up tomorrow and Monday. Absolutely loved them both. Especially Before I Fall!

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Follow Friday (3)

>> Thursday, December 15, 2011


This is a weekly meme hosted by parajunkee and alisoncanread!
This week's question:
"When you've read a book, what do you do with it? (Keep it, give it away, donate, swap it...?)

I pretty much hold on to my books. I like looking at them on my shelf :) what book lover doesn't? However, I do love loaning out my books. They are meant to be read! But, I ask nicely that they would be well taken care of, and if I lend out a hardback, I obviously give it to them without the jacket! Books I don't care too much for? I trade them into the used bookstore to buy one I may like better.

What about you? What do you do with your books? Leave a comment so I can check out your answer and your blog! I'm always looking for new blogs to follow!

Taylor

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Top Ten Books to Buy for Friends and Family!

>> Tuesday, December 13, 2011


Happy Tuesday! Taylor here. 

Today's theme is books you want to buy for close family members and friends! Here is a quick list of what I would choose for those special ones around me! This weekly meme is hosted by the brokeandbookish!

Jumping right on in to number 1...

For the 10 year old boy I babysit. He has read Zelnick's other book and loved it. He told me he wanted to read this after he finished Harry Potter series. (That's right, he is 10 and on the 6th book!)
For my 7 year old niece. My sister-in-law recommended it, and said she is really into building right now?! Okay!

For my older sister who loves historical fiction! And a little magic thrown in can't hurt!

For my sister-in-law who has a serious appreciation for books and words. But really, who would't love this book?!

Another one for my 7 year old niece. She is a really, really good reader, and this book was magical for me when I was younger. Heck, it still is!

For the first grader I babysit. She already loves these books. Junie is SO funny! I would read these right now and probably die laughing.

For my Dad. I want him to love this series! I already got him hooked on Harry and the Hunger Games!

Again, for Ella, the first grader I babysit! I LOVED ANYTHING BEVERLY CLEARY! So she should too :)

For my co-blogger, Rebekah! I know how much she wants to read this and I wish I had gotten it for her in time!



Hope y'all enjoyed! Leave a link or comment with your top ten so we can check it out!

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Review: Where She Went by Gayle Foreman

>> Monday, December 12, 2011

Reviewer: Taylor
Title: Where She Went
Author: Gayle Forman
Published: April 5 2011
Source: Bought
Series: Yes-second in a duology
Pages: 260
Rating: 2.5-3/5
 
It's been three years since the devastating accident . . . three years since Mia walked out of Adam's life forever.

Now living on opposite coasts, Mia is Juilliard's rising star and Adam is LA tabloid fodder, thanks to his new rock star status and celebrity girlfriend. When Adam gets stuck in New York by himself, chance brings the couple together again, for one last night. As they explore the city that has become Mia's home, Adam and Mia revisit the past and open their hearts to the future - and each other.

Told from Adam's point of view in the spare, lyrical prose that defined If I Stay, Where She Went explores the devastation of grief, the promise of new hope, and the flame of rekindled romance.


  Summary taken from Goodreads


I was so excited to get into this book. After leaving Mia and Adam in the first book with practically no answers, I couldn't wait to get into the next chapter of their lives. I was happily surprised to find that Adam is the narrator in this book rather than Mia. I would say it was refreshing to see a different point of view, but Adam is kind of messed up in this book. He has rocketed into "pop-stardom," yet wants nothing to do with the public eye, his band, or even his girlfriend. I understand the brokenness he was continuing to go through, however, his bad attitude started to get to me after a while.

I don't really know what else to say about this book for fear that I will give something away. I was a little disappointed, though, unfortunately. Especially at first. I looked up at the page numbers once while I was reading, to realize I was over 100 pages in and I felt like NOTHING had happened. I was like.. seriously?! But, I also realized that the majority of this book is not dialogue, and it's not even action. The majority of this book is exploring Adam's thoughts, feelings, and insecurities. While I know this may be many people's cup of tea- it was not for me. I like action and dialogue. However, towards the end of the book, more dialogue was occurring and the plot finally was unfolding. 

While I definitely didn't enjoy this book as much as it's precursor, it was still a thought provoking read. If you have read If I Stay (which you totally should) I would still pick this one up! It is a quick read, and brings closure to Adam and Mia's story.

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Review - The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

>> Thursday, December 8, 2011

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson


Reviewer: Rebekah
Series: yes
Rating: 4.5/5









Just finished this a few hours ago.

Wow.

Where do I start?

I've been hearing about this fantastic book for a while now, so I bought the paperback very cheap at a used book store. It's been on my TBR list for a while.

Before I explain how freakin' awesome this book is, I will say that it was not perfect. It was hard to get into, and a little difficult to get used to the financial journalist and big-shot business lingo (it also was hard to transition from "sweet" YA novels....I just finished Lola and the Boy Next Door).

I've heard a few complaints from bloggers and reviewers on the web who did't like the writing style. It wasn't my favorite either, but I think it worked for this type of novel. In a way the no-nonsense, straightforwardness reflected the personality of Lisbeth (the tattooed anti-heroine). It's a crime novel, guys. If the writing was any more descriptive, I wouldn't have been able to get through the really disturbing parts. And there were quite a few. It wasn't an easy novel to read (but I couldn't stop reading).

Needless to say, this book is not for the faint of heart.

The plot. Oh, the plot. A twist here, red herring there, and then BAM.
DIDN'T SEE THAT COMING, HUH? At one point, I actually jumped out of my comfy little futon.

STIEG LARSSON, YOU TOTALLY FOOLED ME! and just about everyone else, by the looks of it.

Anyway, can't give anything away.

As for the leads Lisbeth Slander and Mikael Blomvkist: yes.

Mikael wasn't my favorite at first. He definitely has his flaws, but he's the perfect protagonist for this kind of novel. By the end, I loved him.

Lisbeth. Can't understand her but I loved reading about her. She has her own code. She is who she is. She's tiny, but she's mean. She's not all "there," but she's genius.

Am I going to read the second?

I've already got it in my backpack.
















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TOP TEN TUESDAY

>> Monday, December 5, 2011


Weekly Event Hosted by The Broke and Bookish

I would say more about these books, but I am so sickly right now. Enjoy the pictures!






-Taylor








1. Charlotte's Web by EB White. What a classic. Just thinking about it makes me never want to eat pork again.

2. The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams. Can't tell you how many times I forced my mother to read this.

3. Holes by Louis Sachar. Awesome story. Love the writing.

4. Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson. So incredibly creative and perfect.

5. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by JK Rowling. Duh.


I could make lists and lists and LISTS of all my favorite books from the past. I probably love them too much.


-Rebekah



What about you?






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IMM (5)

>> Sunday, December 4, 2011

Hey all! We got some great books this week.
Most of them are from the library, except one, which is an ARC of Article 5!!
WOO HOO!
our first ARC!
anyways, here is the picture of the books!



Article 5 by Kristen Simmons
You are My Only by Beth Kephart
Alice in Time by Penelope Bush
Past Perfect by Leila Sales
Virtuosity by Jessica Martinez

We are so excited to read these! Any recommendations on what to pick up first?
Leave a comment with your IMM so we can check it out!

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Review: Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater

>> Thursday, December 1, 2011

Reviewer: Rebekah
Title: Shiver
Author: Maggie Stiefvater
From: Library (Audiobook)
Series: yes
Rating: 3.5-4/5 stars





Grace and Sam share a kinship so close they could be lovers or siblings. But they also share a problem. When the temperature slips towards freezing, Sam reverts to his wolf identity and must retreat into the woods to protect his pack. He worries that eventually his human side will fade away and he will be left howling alone at the lonely moon. A stirring supernatural teen romance.











I kept seeing this book everywhere, so I said to myself, "What the heck? You can read about werewolves."


A lot of people LOVED it (granted, most were girl ages 15-22), but I was skeptical starting it.
So, in preparation for a weekend drive (all alone in my car for several, boring hours), I thought I'd give the audiobook a try.


The voices were kind of annoying. Grace's voice seemed to young and Sam's voice seemed too old. It took me a while to get used to that. I might have to actually read it.


Other than that, I liked the writing. 
Grace grew on me. I liked her more when I realized we looked similar (blonde hair, brown eyes), but she was kind of boring. In a way though, it made her more normal. Except, I keep reading all these books about kids who are more mature than their parents. I KNOW that isn't always the case. Still, it made the story better.


Sam was pretty good. His artsy let-me-burst-into-a-lyrical-ballad tone kind of annoyed me at first, but he was sweet. He's a werewolf, but he's also a tender soul. Touching. Hm.


They REALLY liked each other, huh? But I guess there "love" was kind of supernatural, you know? That's probably why it was so intense.


Regardless of weird voices or dramatic behaviors, it was entertaining, if not a little anti-climatic. I kind of saw every "shocking" thing coming. The writing was nice though. 


Am I going to get the others? Probably. But not on audiotape.



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Waiting on Wednesday

>> Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Hosted by Breaking the Spine



Pandemonium by Lauren Oliver
Expected publication: March 6th 2012 by HarperTeen

The old Lena is dead. The old Lena remains with Alex in Portland, Maine, behind a wall of smoke and flame, but the new Lena was born in the Wilds, transformed by hardship, deprivation, and loss. 

Now an active member of the resistance, Lena fights for a world in which love will no longer be considered a dangerous disease. Her inner life is as turbulent as the world around her. . . . Although consumed with grief for Alex, might she be falling in love with someone else? 







Taylor read Delirium and she's dying to get her hands on this one. I haven't read Delirium yet but I know I'm going to love it.....so I guess you can say I am waiting either way!


What about you guys? 

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Top Ten Books on my Winter TBR Pile

>> Monday, November 28, 2011


Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by brokeandbookish and is AWESOME.

Taylor here!
I was so excited when I saw this was the top ten tuesday topic for this week. 
I have SO MANY books I want to read over winter break!
My main goal is to make a dent in my own books that have been sitting on my shelf,
however, I'm sure I will be making some trips to the library, and hopefully Santa will bring me a few new books of my own :)
This list goes for both Rebekah and me!
Enjoy!



The First 5 are books that I already own and have been meaning to get to.

1. Gone by Michael Grant: I WANT TO READ THIS NOW!! everyone says this is such a good series, and hello?? dystopian!
2. Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead: Okay, so I've really been wanting to read these for a while. But, I'm going to be honest, I am too embarrassed to read a book entitled "Vampire Academy" while at school. So, Christmas break, I will be all over this series!
3. City of Glass by Cassandra Clare: I need to finish this and City of Fallen Angels! Oh and Clockwork Angel! I can't wait to see where the major twist is going.
4. Across the Universe by Beth Revis:AHH why have I not read this yet!? With A Million Suns coming out soon, I need to get on this!
5. Eve by Anna Carey: Dystopian. Amazing cover. Enough said.

The next 5 are ones that I don't own, but that I hope to soon!

6. Touch of Frost by Jennifer Estep: I've been getting really into Mythology lately, and I'm OBSESSED with books with boarding schools. So, hey, why not?!
7.Birthmarked by Caragh M. O'Brien: To be honest, all I know is that this is dystopian and lots of bloggers are raving. So of course, I want in.
8. Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor: okay, do I even have to explain? This and the one below have been absolutely RAVED about in the blogger community!
9. Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi: duh. same reason as above. her touch is fatal? WHAT?
10. Carrier of the Mark by Leigh Fallon: This one just sounds so interesting! Usually, I'm not one for paranormal, but this one seems like it could really be amazing! and Ireland! I've been there!

Thanks so much for reading! We appreciate all of you so much and would love to hear from you in the comments. We will be sure to check out your blog or try to get to know you better!




Read more...

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

What I'm Waiting on Today...





This awesome weekly meme is hosted by breakingthespine. The book I am dying to get my hands on as soon as possible is...





Who would have guessed that four minutes could change everything?

Today should be one of the worst days of seventeen-year-old Hadley Sullivan's life. She's stuck at JFK, late to her father's second wedding, which is taking place in London and involves a soon to be step-mother that Hadley's never even met. Then she meets the perfect boy in the airport's cramped waiting area. His name is Oliver, he's British, and he's in seat 18C. Hadley's in 18A.

Twists of fate and quirks of timing play out in this thoughtful novel about family connections, second chances and first loves. Set over a 24-hour-period, Hadley and Oliver's story will make you believe that true love finds you when you're least expecting it.

Ahhh.. I feel like people have been talking about this book for forever! It sounds like such a cute, fun read. And seriously, I am obsessed with their names. Hadley and Oliver? So precious! I just put my order in for this book so I should be receiving it very soon! :)
What about you? What are you waiting on?

Taylor

Friday, December 23, 2011

Bookish Bullets

  • I was going to do a Follow Friday post, however, I didn't really feel like it. And while it is a great way for us to grow our blog, I also think it is important to show some individuality and personality on the blog as well!
  • I just finished my first book in verse, The Day Before by Lisa Schroeder. Heading to the library tomorrow to borrow more to devour. 
  • Not that I need to get any more books from the library as my current TBR pile looks like this..
Yeah.. I got a little ambitious when packing for Winter break. Books on the right are library books and the two piles on the left are mine. I need help!
  •  Currently reading Uglies by Scott Westerfeld. With my love for dystopians I feel like it is a classic series I must read!
  • Love when I open up the blog and see when my amazing co-blogger Rebekah has posted something completely awesome on the blog. We really have no system for posting right now. It's just kind of whoever feels like it! It works!
  • Last thing.. I am just so thankful for all 58 followers we have now. We would not have the encouragement to keep blogging without y'all! Let us know anything we can review or give advice on so we can help our blogger friends out as much as possible!
I suppose that is all for now. I guess the point of bullet points is to keep it short and simple... but hey, this is a blog about words.. in books.. so i guess being a little wordy isn't that big of a deal!

Thursday, December 22, 2011

hey, i've watched that book before...

We all know that Hollywood loves to take our beloved novels and turn them into multi-million dollar blockbusters, some bad, some really bad, and some actually pretty good.

I could make lists of all the "terrible awful" ones...but it's Christmas, eh? Let's spread a little hope.

Here's a few upcoming book to movie adaptions that I'm praying (pretty hopeful) will be kind...


1. The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo. Yeah I'm putting this at the top of the list because I'm in the middle of the series right now and my palms are sweating just thinking about it.....yikes. I'm absolutely terrified to see this, but not because I think it'll bad. Quite on the contrary. Some of those scenes are going to be too much too watch. If you've read it you know. I haven't seen the Swedish version, but I've definitely heard. 
Release date: December 21, 2011


2. The Hunger Games. If you haven't seen this trailer.........
Some are skeptical about a few of the casting choices. I'm not. Jennifer Lawrence is spot on. If you have seen her in Winter's Bone, you know she is more than capable. 
Release date: March 23, 2012
May the odds be ever in OUR favor




3. The Great Gatsby. I'm such a Leo fan that I might be too biased already. I have high hopes for this adaption. But I've also heard something ridiculous about it being some 3D spectacular. Please, no. One of my favorite books of all time.
Release date: Christmas 2012


4. The Hobbit. What's a good book-to-movie list without a hobbit? I've failed to read LOTR but I HAVE READ THE HOBBIT. I promise. The others are on a list to be read....PROMISE.
Meanwhile...who is excited???
Release date: Part one - December 14, 2012  Part two - December 13, 2013





Comments? Hopes? Fears? Just let it out. 






Monday, December 19, 2011

Top Ten Books I Hope Santa Brings






   



Okay, I'm not sure what the heck is wrong with blogger right now! It took me forever to get these pictures in a way that would look at all organized and now it won't let me type above them. I need some serious help with this whole blogger thing- still. Anyways, all of these books look amazing and I hope to get my hands on them soon!

I'm curious to see what everyone else is hoping for this Christmas! Let me know in the comments below!




Review: The Day Before by Lisa Schroeder


Reviewer: Taylor
Author: Lisa Schroeder
Published: June 28 2011
Source: Library
Series: no
Pages: 307
Rating: 5/5
 
Amber’s life is spinning out of control. All she wants is to turn up the volume on her iPod until all of the demands of family and friends fade away. So she sneaks off to the beach to spend a day by herself.

Then Amber meets Cade. Their attraction is instant, and Amber can tell he’s also looking for an escape. Together they decide to share a perfect day: no pasts, no fears, no regrets.

The more time that Amber spends with Cade, the more she’s drawn to him. And the more she’s troubled by his darkness. Because Cade’s not just living in the now—he’s living each moment like it’s his last.

Summary taken from Goodreads


Wow.
That is all I can say right now.
w
o
w

I picked up this book on a whim during my last library trip. I recognized it's spine while perusing the lovely spines of all the books. I remembered it was written in verse, and I thought, why the heck not? It's time I give this whole verse thing a try.

And I am so g l a d I did!

This book follows our main character Amber as she is trying desperately to just have a day for herself before everything changes. For a while, we know nothing. I was so confused as to why she was running, why she seemed so depressed, and where she was going. Slowly, though, more answers are revealed shedding light on Amber's current situation and her way of coping. And may I say, her situation was definitely not what I was expecting. But, that is all I will say about that!

(I am always afraid to spoil things for you all! So I am always ever so careful.)

Soon into the book, Amber meets Cade. Oh, Cade. Yes, we only know each other for less than 24 hours, but how easy it is to fall for the sweet and handsome, yet, broken, boy. The time they spend together is beautiful. Learning so much from one another. Ahh, I just can't explain how much I loved it! 

I really don't want to give anything else away- but let me just tell you this- READ THIS BOOK. If you have never read a book written in verse, seriously, this would be a great one to start with. Obviously, it was a hit for me.

Sunday, December 18, 2011

IMM (6)

Hello lovely readers! So happy and thrilled you took the time to check out our blog and what we got this week. I had a great haul from the library, however I am on vacation and only have 2 with me! I will save the others for next week's IMM post, though. Also- first time blogging from my phone since I have no wifi. Hope it turns out okay! So without further ado (is that how you spell that? Probably should look that up...), my books!

Variant by Robison Wells (about halfway through and LOVING it.. Maze Runner feel but not so creepy!)
The Day Before by Lisa Schroeder (first book in verse! I'm picking this one up next)

Also-update on my reading pile! Just finished reading Past Perfect by Leila Sales, and also Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver on audio! Reviews up tomorrow and Monday. Absolutely loved them both. Especially Before I Fall!

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Follow Friday (3)


This is a weekly meme hosted by parajunkee and alisoncanread!
This week's question:
"When you've read a book, what do you do with it? (Keep it, give it away, donate, swap it...?)

I pretty much hold on to my books. I like looking at them on my shelf :) what book lover doesn't? However, I do love loaning out my books. They are meant to be read! But, I ask nicely that they would be well taken care of, and if I lend out a hardback, I obviously give it to them without the jacket! Books I don't care too much for? I trade them into the used bookstore to buy one I may like better.

What about you? What do you do with your books? Leave a comment so I can check out your answer and your blog! I'm always looking for new blogs to follow!

Taylor

Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Top Ten Books to Buy for Friends and Family!


Happy Tuesday! Taylor here. 

Today's theme is books you want to buy for close family members and friends! Here is a quick list of what I would choose for those special ones around me! This weekly meme is hosted by the brokeandbookish!

Jumping right on in to number 1...

For the 10 year old boy I babysit. He has read Zelnick's other book and loved it. He told me he wanted to read this after he finished Harry Potter series. (That's right, he is 10 and on the 6th book!)
For my 7 year old niece. My sister-in-law recommended it, and said she is really into building right now?! Okay!

For my older sister who loves historical fiction! And a little magic thrown in can't hurt!

For my sister-in-law who has a serious appreciation for books and words. But really, who would't love this book?!

Another one for my 7 year old niece. She is a really, really good reader, and this book was magical for me when I was younger. Heck, it still is!

For the first grader I babysit. She already loves these books. Junie is SO funny! I would read these right now and probably die laughing.

For my Dad. I want him to love this series! I already got him hooked on Harry and the Hunger Games!

Again, for Ella, the first grader I babysit! I LOVED ANYTHING BEVERLY CLEARY! So she should too :)

For my co-blogger, Rebekah! I know how much she wants to read this and I wish I had gotten it for her in time!



Hope y'all enjoyed! Leave a link or comment with your top ten so we can check it out!

Monday, December 12, 2011

Review: Where She Went by Gayle Foreman

Reviewer: Taylor
Title: Where She Went
Author: Gayle Forman
Published: April 5 2011
Source: Bought
Series: Yes-second in a duology
Pages: 260
Rating: 2.5-3/5
 
It's been three years since the devastating accident . . . three years since Mia walked out of Adam's life forever.

Now living on opposite coasts, Mia is Juilliard's rising star and Adam is LA tabloid fodder, thanks to his new rock star status and celebrity girlfriend. When Adam gets stuck in New York by himself, chance brings the couple together again, for one last night. As they explore the city that has become Mia's home, Adam and Mia revisit the past and open their hearts to the future - and each other.

Told from Adam's point of view in the spare, lyrical prose that defined If I Stay, Where She Went explores the devastation of grief, the promise of new hope, and the flame of rekindled romance.


  Summary taken from Goodreads


I was so excited to get into this book. After leaving Mia and Adam in the first book with practically no answers, I couldn't wait to get into the next chapter of their lives. I was happily surprised to find that Adam is the narrator in this book rather than Mia. I would say it was refreshing to see a different point of view, but Adam is kind of messed up in this book. He has rocketed into "pop-stardom," yet wants nothing to do with the public eye, his band, or even his girlfriend. I understand the brokenness he was continuing to go through, however, his bad attitude started to get to me after a while.

I don't really know what else to say about this book for fear that I will give something away. I was a little disappointed, though, unfortunately. Especially at first. I looked up at the page numbers once while I was reading, to realize I was over 100 pages in and I felt like NOTHING had happened. I was like.. seriously?! But, I also realized that the majority of this book is not dialogue, and it's not even action. The majority of this book is exploring Adam's thoughts, feelings, and insecurities. While I know this may be many people's cup of tea- it was not for me. I like action and dialogue. However, towards the end of the book, more dialogue was occurring and the plot finally was unfolding. 

While I definitely didn't enjoy this book as much as it's precursor, it was still a thought provoking read. If you have read If I Stay (which you totally should) I would still pick this one up! It is a quick read, and brings closure to Adam and Mia's story.

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Review - The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Stieg Larsson

Reviewer: Rebekah
Series: yes
Rating: 4.5/5









Just finished this a few hours ago.

Wow.

Where do I start?

I've been hearing about this fantastic book for a while now, so I bought the paperback very cheap at a used book store. It's been on my TBR list for a while.

Before I explain how freakin' awesome this book is, I will say that it was not perfect. It was hard to get into, and a little difficult to get used to the financial journalist and big-shot business lingo (it also was hard to transition from "sweet" YA novels....I just finished Lola and the Boy Next Door).

I've heard a few complaints from bloggers and reviewers on the web who did't like the writing style. It wasn't my favorite either, but I think it worked for this type of novel. In a way the no-nonsense, straightforwardness reflected the personality of Lisbeth (the tattooed anti-heroine). It's a crime novel, guys. If the writing was any more descriptive, I wouldn't have been able to get through the really disturbing parts. And there were quite a few. It wasn't an easy novel to read (but I couldn't stop reading).

Needless to say, this book is not for the faint of heart.

The plot. Oh, the plot. A twist here, red herring there, and then BAM.
DIDN'T SEE THAT COMING, HUH? At one point, I actually jumped out of my comfy little futon.

STIEG LARSSON, YOU TOTALLY FOOLED ME! and just about everyone else, by the looks of it.

Anyway, can't give anything away.

As for the leads Lisbeth Slander and Mikael Blomvkist: yes.

Mikael wasn't my favorite at first. He definitely has his flaws, but he's the perfect protagonist for this kind of novel. By the end, I loved him.

Lisbeth. Can't understand her but I loved reading about her. She has her own code. She is who she is. She's tiny, but she's mean. She's not all "there," but she's genius.

Am I going to read the second?

I've already got it in my backpack.
















Monday, December 5, 2011

TOP TEN TUESDAY


Weekly Event Hosted by The Broke and Bookish

I would say more about these books, but I am so sickly right now. Enjoy the pictures!






-Taylor








1. Charlotte's Web by EB White. What a classic. Just thinking about it makes me never want to eat pork again.

2. The Velveteen Rabbit by Margery Williams. Can't tell you how many times I forced my mother to read this.

3. Holes by Louis Sachar. Awesome story. Love the writing.

4. Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson. So incredibly creative and perfect.

5. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by JK Rowling. Duh.


I could make lists and lists and LISTS of all my favorite books from the past. I probably love them too much.


-Rebekah



What about you?






Sunday, December 4, 2011

IMM (5)

Hey all! We got some great books this week.
Most of them are from the library, except one, which is an ARC of Article 5!!
WOO HOO!
our first ARC!
anyways, here is the picture of the books!



Article 5 by Kristen Simmons
You are My Only by Beth Kephart
Alice in Time by Penelope Bush
Past Perfect by Leila Sales
Virtuosity by Jessica Martinez

We are so excited to read these! Any recommendations on what to pick up first?
Leave a comment with your IMM so we can check it out!

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Review: Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater

Reviewer: Rebekah
Title: Shiver
Author: Maggie Stiefvater
From: Library (Audiobook)
Series: yes
Rating: 3.5-4/5 stars





Grace and Sam share a kinship so close they could be lovers or siblings. But they also share a problem. When the temperature slips towards freezing, Sam reverts to his wolf identity and must retreat into the woods to protect his pack. He worries that eventually his human side will fade away and he will be left howling alone at the lonely moon. A stirring supernatural teen romance.











I kept seeing this book everywhere, so I said to myself, "What the heck? You can read about werewolves."


A lot of people LOVED it (granted, most were girl ages 15-22), but I was skeptical starting it.
So, in preparation for a weekend drive (all alone in my car for several, boring hours), I thought I'd give the audiobook a try.


The voices were kind of annoying. Grace's voice seemed to young and Sam's voice seemed too old. It took me a while to get used to that. I might have to actually read it.


Other than that, I liked the writing. 
Grace grew on me. I liked her more when I realized we looked similar (blonde hair, brown eyes), but she was kind of boring. In a way though, it made her more normal. Except, I keep reading all these books about kids who are more mature than their parents. I KNOW that isn't always the case. Still, it made the story better.


Sam was pretty good. His artsy let-me-burst-into-a-lyrical-ballad tone kind of annoyed me at first, but he was sweet. He's a werewolf, but he's also a tender soul. Touching. Hm.


They REALLY liked each other, huh? But I guess there "love" was kind of supernatural, you know? That's probably why it was so intense.


Regardless of weird voices or dramatic behaviors, it was entertaining, if not a little anti-climatic. I kind of saw every "shocking" thing coming. The writing was nice though. 


Am I going to get the others? Probably. But not on audiotape.



Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Waiting on Wednesday

Hosted by Breaking the Spine



Pandemonium by Lauren Oliver
Expected publication: March 6th 2012 by HarperTeen

The old Lena is dead. The old Lena remains with Alex in Portland, Maine, behind a wall of smoke and flame, but the new Lena was born in the Wilds, transformed by hardship, deprivation, and loss. 

Now an active member of the resistance, Lena fights for a world in which love will no longer be considered a dangerous disease. Her inner life is as turbulent as the world around her. . . . Although consumed with grief for Alex, might she be falling in love with someone else? 







Taylor read Delirium and she's dying to get her hands on this one. I haven't read Delirium yet but I know I'm going to love it.....so I guess you can say I am waiting either way!


What about you guys? 

Monday, November 28, 2011

Top Ten Books on my Winter TBR Pile


Top Ten Tuesday is a weekly meme hosted by brokeandbookish and is AWESOME.

Taylor here!
I was so excited when I saw this was the top ten tuesday topic for this week. 
I have SO MANY books I want to read over winter break!
My main goal is to make a dent in my own books that have been sitting on my shelf,
however, I'm sure I will be making some trips to the library, and hopefully Santa will bring me a few new books of my own :)
This list goes for both Rebekah and me!
Enjoy!



The First 5 are books that I already own and have been meaning to get to.

1. Gone by Michael Grant: I WANT TO READ THIS NOW!! everyone says this is such a good series, and hello?? dystopian!
2. Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead: Okay, so I've really been wanting to read these for a while. But, I'm going to be honest, I am too embarrassed to read a book entitled "Vampire Academy" while at school. So, Christmas break, I will be all over this series!
3. City of Glass by Cassandra Clare: I need to finish this and City of Fallen Angels! Oh and Clockwork Angel! I can't wait to see where the major twist is going.
4. Across the Universe by Beth Revis:AHH why have I not read this yet!? With A Million Suns coming out soon, I need to get on this!
5. Eve by Anna Carey: Dystopian. Amazing cover. Enough said.

The next 5 are ones that I don't own, but that I hope to soon!

6. Touch of Frost by Jennifer Estep: I've been getting really into Mythology lately, and I'm OBSESSED with books with boarding schools. So, hey, why not?!
7.Birthmarked by Caragh M. O'Brien: To be honest, all I know is that this is dystopian and lots of bloggers are raving. So of course, I want in.
8. Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor: okay, do I even have to explain? This and the one below have been absolutely RAVED about in the blogger community!
9. Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi: duh. same reason as above. her touch is fatal? WHAT?
10. Carrier of the Mark by Leigh Fallon: This one just sounds so interesting! Usually, I'm not one for paranormal, but this one seems like it could really be amazing! and Ireland! I've been there!

Thanks so much for reading! We appreciate all of you so much and would love to hear from you in the comments. We will be sure to check out your blog or try to get to know you better!




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