Life is hard enough as it is, so I only truly enjoy books or movies that have HAPPY ENDINGS!!!
The Truth That's In Me by Julie Berry
Four years ago, Judith and her best friend disappeared from their small town of Roswell Station. Two years ago, only Judith returned, permanently mutilated, reviled and ignored by those who were once her friends and family.
Unable to speak, Judith lives like a ghost in her own home, silently pouring out her thoughts to the boy who’s owned her heart as long as she can remember—even if he doesn’t know it—her childhood friend, Lucas.
But when Roswell Station is attacked, long-buried secrets come to light, and Judith is forced to choose: continue to live in silence, or recover her voice, even if it means changing her world, and the lives around her, forever.
This book was interesting…There is very little dialog in this book which is a no-no in the writing world. It is written in second person perspective, who does that? But Julie Berry made it work! It took me a little while of reading to be sucked in, but then I didn’t want to put it down. There are “secrets” in this book that I didn’t figure out until I was told. Our heroine, Judith, is told by everyone that she is horrible, but she manages to plow on and still be a good person. Don’t worry my friends, of course there is a little romance! You should really try this YA novel. It’s a fast read.
Unable to speak, Judith lives like a ghost in her own home, silently pouring out her thoughts to the boy who’s owned her heart as long as she can remember—even if he doesn’t know it—her childhood friend, Lucas.
But when Roswell Station is attacked, long-buried secrets come to light, and Judith is forced to choose: continue to live in silence, or recover her voice, even if it means changing her world, and the lives around her, forever.
This book was interesting…There is very little dialog in this book which is a no-no in the writing world. It is written in second person perspective, who does that? But Julie Berry made it work! It took me a little while of reading to be sucked in, but then I didn’t want to put it down. There are “secrets” in this book that I didn’t figure out until I was told. Our heroine, Judith, is told by everyone that she is horrible, but she manages to plow on and still be a good person. Don’t worry my friends, of course there is a little romance! You should really try this YA novel. It’s a fast read.
Son of War, Daughter of Chaos by Janette Rallison
Aislynn is accustomed to watching for the enemy. Her parents instructed her from the time she was young to look for the signs: people with greater than normal strength, eyes that can glow green, and have the ability to jump long distances. Over the years, Aislynn has come to view her parents’ fears as quirks—things that get in the way of having a normal high school life.
When Aislynn’s mother dies under suspicious conditions, her father doubles his restrictions. But all his precautions can’t stop the boy with glowing green eyes from finding Aislynn. She realizes too late she’s been drafted into an ancient Egyptian war, whether she’s prepared or not.
I have to admit that I have never been into mythology and wasn’t sure what I would think of this book. But with it being a Janette Rallison, young adult book, I knew that I had to give it a try. I fell in love! This book kept me up until the wee hours of the night! This book had humor, action, mystery, intrigue and of course a little bit of romance. I liked Aislynn as a heroine in this story and found myself rooting for her throughout her journey.
While other books I’ve recommended over the past may be more for females, this one definitely is not! Give this to your son, brother or husband and he will like it just as much as your daughter! Try this one out! And if your young sons don’t want to read a book written by a female author, have them try out the C. J. Hill ‘Slayers’ or ‘Erasing Time’ books (Janette Rallison, written under a pen name.)
When Aislynn’s mother dies under suspicious conditions, her father doubles his restrictions. But all his precautions can’t stop the boy with glowing green eyes from finding Aislynn. She realizes too late she’s been drafted into an ancient Egyptian war, whether she’s prepared or not.
I have to admit that I have never been into mythology and wasn’t sure what I would think of this book. But with it being a Janette Rallison, young adult book, I knew that I had to give it a try. I fell in love! This book kept me up until the wee hours of the night! This book had humor, action, mystery, intrigue and of course a little bit of romance. I liked Aislynn as a heroine in this story and found myself rooting for her throughout her journey.
While other books I’ve recommended over the past may be more for females, this one definitely is not! Give this to your son, brother or husband and he will like it just as much as your daughter! Try this one out! And if your young sons don’t want to read a book written by a female author, have them try out the C. J. Hill ‘Slayers’ or ‘Erasing Time’ books (Janette Rallison, written under a pen name.)
The Testing by Joelle Charbonneau
Keep your friends close and your enemies closer. Isn’t that what they say? But how close is too close when they may be one in the same?
The Seven Stages War left much of the planet a charred wasteland. The future belongs to the next generation’s chosen few who must rebuild it. But to enter this elite group, candidates must first pass The Testing—their one chance at a college education and a rewarding career.
Cia Vale is honored to be chosen as a Testing candidate; eager to prove her worthiness as a University student and future leader of the United Commonwealth. But on the eve of her departure, her father’s advice hints at a darker side to her upcoming studies--trust no one.
But surely she can trust Tomas, her handsome childhood friend who offers an alliance? Tomas, who seems to care more about her with the passing of every grueling (and deadly) day of the Testing. To survive, Cia must choose: love without truth or life without trust.
I really liked this book giving it 4.5 stars out of 5. I’ve seen reviews of this book that say it is just like Hunger Games and therefore they hated it. While there is indeed moments of resemblance between The Testing and Hunger Games (and Divergent if you really want to know), look beyond those moments and you will see a quick, clever, addicting read. I must say that there was one thing that REALLY bugged me and I could never get over: The character’s name is Malencia with a nickname of “Cia”. I never did figure out how to properly say her name and it annoyed me. I’m getting tired of names in books I can’t pronounce. For the record, I totally make up my own name for the character and just pronounce it how I want. Have a problem with that? Then make a name we can all say for Heaven’s sake! This book is a Young Adult book but had a few swear words, a little kissing and violence (remember when we said resemblance to Hunger Games?) but if you were fine reading a lot of the other dystopia novels out there, then this one shouldn’t bother your moral sensibilities either. I lost some precious sleep over this book as I couldn’t put it down at the end. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series titled Independent Study.
Kiss that Frog: A
Modern Fairy Tale by Cate Rowan
An artist agrees to frog-sit her niece's pet, "Toad." In a moment of whimsy, between cricket feedings, she kisses the frog. A short while later, she finds a handsome man in Regency clothing in her living room.
This is a novella with a mere 12,700 words. I have read many novellas and enjoy them because I really don’t have to invest much time in them. My main problem with novellas is that the author really can’t develop a believable love story in so few words. This is a story of a cursed prince who has become a frog. Right off we know this can’t be too believable so no problem with her working that aspect. I thought the overall story was cute, but I was quite unimpressed that lust was such a big deal in this “fairytale”. Nothing happened, but that isn’t saying our heroine wasn’t hoping. A fairytale to me is the ultimate in sweet and innocent. Fairytales are what we tell our little children, right? I’m not sure that I would recommend this book unless you are looking for something that is a little less innocent.
This is a novella with a mere 12,700 words. I have read many novellas and enjoy them because I really don’t have to invest much time in them. My main problem with novellas is that the author really can’t develop a believable love story in so few words. This is a story of a cursed prince who has become a frog. Right off we know this can’t be too believable so no problem with her working that aspect. I thought the overall story was cute, but I was quite unimpressed that lust was such a big deal in this “fairytale”. Nothing happened, but that isn’t saying our heroine wasn’t hoping. A fairytale to me is the ultimate in sweet and innocent. Fairytales are what we tell our little children, right? I’m not sure that I would recommend this book unless you are looking for something that is a little less innocent.
Manor of Secrets by Katherine Longshore
The year is 1911. And at The Manor, nothing is as it seems . . .
Lady Charlotte Edmonds: Beautiful, wealthy, and sheltered, Charlotte feels suffocated by the strictures of upper-crust society. She longs to see the world beyond The Manor, to seek out high adventure. And most of all, romance.
Janie Seward: Fiery, hardworking, and clever, Janie knows she can be more than just a kitchen maid. But she isn't sure she possesses the courage -- or the means -- to break free and follow her passions.
Both Charlotte and Janie are ready for change. As their paths overlap in the gilded hallways and dark corridors of The Manor, rules are broken and secrets are revealed. Secrets that will alter the course of their lives. . . forever.
This book is a young adult book that is geared towards fans of Downtown Abbey. I like Young Adult. I like Downtown Abbey. Win-win, right?! Ummm, not so much. The first page had a word I had never even heard of. I am a 40 year old avid reader including a reader of many regency novels. Here is the mystery word in a sentence. “Across the terrace, over the ha-ha, and into the trees beyond.” Umm, what in the world is a “ha-ha”?!? Don’t worry, I’ve looked it up for us. The Wikipedia definition: A ha-ha (or ha-ha wall) is a recessed landscape design element that creates a vertical barrier while preserving views. Really Katherine, in a young adult novel we are pulling out words that put the brakes on our reading. From that point on, I had to force myself forward in reading this novel. Already I didn’t like the author for trying to make us feel stupid. While the book had a slow start, I eventually did enjoy reading the remainder of the book. I figured out the plot and its twists early on, so this book wasn’t one that had me reading late into the night. But I was invested enough to want to finish it. I would give this book a definite 3 out of 5 stars. I enjoyed it, but I wouldn’t rush out to buy a copy.
The year is 1911. And at The Manor, nothing is as it seems . . .
Lady Charlotte Edmonds: Beautiful, wealthy, and sheltered, Charlotte feels suffocated by the strictures of upper-crust society. She longs to see the world beyond The Manor, to seek out high adventure. And most of all, romance.
Janie Seward: Fiery, hardworking, and clever, Janie knows she can be more than just a kitchen maid. But she isn't sure she possesses the courage -- or the means -- to break free and follow her passions.
Both Charlotte and Janie are ready for change. As their paths overlap in the gilded hallways and dark corridors of The Manor, rules are broken and secrets are revealed. Secrets that will alter the course of their lives. . . forever.
This book is a young adult book that is geared towards fans of Downtown Abbey. I like Young Adult. I like Downtown Abbey. Win-win, right?! Ummm, not so much. The first page had a word I had never even heard of. I am a 40 year old avid reader including a reader of many regency novels. Here is the mystery word in a sentence. “Across the terrace, over the ha-ha, and into the trees beyond.” Umm, what in the world is a “ha-ha”?!? Don’t worry, I’ve looked it up for us. The Wikipedia definition: A ha-ha (or ha-ha wall) is a recessed landscape design element that creates a vertical barrier while preserving views. Really Katherine, in a young adult novel we are pulling out words that put the brakes on our reading. From that point on, I had to force myself forward in reading this novel. Already I didn’t like the author for trying to make us feel stupid. While the book had a slow start, I eventually did enjoy reading the remainder of the book. I figured out the plot and its twists early on, so this book wasn’t one that had me reading late into the night. But I was invested enough to want to finish it. I would give this book a definite 3 out of 5 stars. I enjoyed it, but I wouldn’t rush out to buy a copy.
The Here and Now by Ann Brashares
Follow the rules. Remember what happened. Never fall in love.
This is the story of seventeen-year-old Prenna James, who immigrated to New York when she was twelve. Except Prenna didn’t come from a different country. She came from a different time—a future where a mosquito-borne illness has mutated into a pandemic, killing millions and leaving the world in ruins.
Prenna and the others who escaped to the present day must follow a strict set of rules: never reveal where they’re from, never interfere with history, and never, ever be intimate with anyone outside their community. Prenna does as she’s told, believing she can help prevent the plague that will one day ravage the earth.
But everything changes when Prenna falls for Ethan Jarves.
I found this book to be a very interesting read. Is it a blow your mind away like some of the other books of the genre of time-traveling and dystopia…well, no. Does it have a few flaws like other time-travel books…sure. BUT, it was a quick, entertaining novel with only 288 pages they really flew by. I found myself turning the pages even after bedtime to find what was going to happen next. It was a teenage love story with a twist. This girl is TEENAGE HUMAN with normal thoughts, emotions, and desires. But she is trying to live in a forced reality that just wouldn’t work for most normal people.
There are many twists and turns in this book keeping you wondering what will happen next. Luckily she has fellow teenager Ethan along with her during her journey in our present time to help her find her way. I’m not sure that I loved the ending as I am a happily ever after kind of gal, but this one left me wanting more.
Follow the rules. Remember what happened. Never fall in love.
This is the story of seventeen-year-old Prenna James, who immigrated to New York when she was twelve. Except Prenna didn’t come from a different country. She came from a different time—a future where a mosquito-borne illness has mutated into a pandemic, killing millions and leaving the world in ruins.
Prenna and the others who escaped to the present day must follow a strict set of rules: never reveal where they’re from, never interfere with history, and never, ever be intimate with anyone outside their community. Prenna does as she’s told, believing she can help prevent the plague that will one day ravage the earth.
But everything changes when Prenna falls for Ethan Jarves.
I found this book to be a very interesting read. Is it a blow your mind away like some of the other books of the genre of time-traveling and dystopia…well, no. Does it have a few flaws like other time-travel books…sure. BUT, it was a quick, entertaining novel with only 288 pages they really flew by. I found myself turning the pages even after bedtime to find what was going to happen next. It was a teenage love story with a twist. This girl is TEENAGE HUMAN with normal thoughts, emotions, and desires. But she is trying to live in a forced reality that just wouldn’t work for most normal people.
There are many twists and turns in this book keeping you wondering what will happen next. Luckily she has fellow teenager Ethan along with her during her journey in our present time to help her find her way. I’m not sure that I loved the ending as I am a happily ever after kind of gal, but this one left me wanting more.
Lingering Echoes by Erica Kiefer
She's broken with guilt.
He harbors a chilling past.
It's safer if they keep their distance...
But, the echoes that linger connect them.
Returning to Hidden Pines is the last thing Allie Collins wants to do during her final summer before college. For her, the family cabin she spent her youthful summers in, now holds a dark memory that has haunted her every day for the last year.
While struggling to forget her past, Allie runs into Damien, a local rebel with secrets of his own. He's dark, dangerous and he keeps showing up when Allie least expects him to. She has every reason not to trust him. So why does she find herself opening up to him in a way she hasn't been able to with anyone?
As pieces of Damien’s identity emerge, answers to a rumored mystery begin to unfold. By the time Allie unearths the secrets of Damien’s past, she realizes just how intricately they are connected. Now she is caught in a dangerous battle that threatens her life and those she loves.
When I started reading this book I thought at first it was going to be about a spoiled teen trying to fit in with her new step-family. How many times have we read that story?! I was happily surprised when I continued to read! This book deals with so many different emotions that it will suck you in and keep you reading all night. The characters are dealing with loss, teenage peer pressure, new family dynamics, love triangles and…ultimately their own death. Each time I thought I had the ending figured out, the author would twist things up a bit! Enjoy this read! I did!
She's broken with guilt.
He harbors a chilling past.
It's safer if they keep their distance...
But, the echoes that linger connect them.
Returning to Hidden Pines is the last thing Allie Collins wants to do during her final summer before college. For her, the family cabin she spent her youthful summers in, now holds a dark memory that has haunted her every day for the last year.
While struggling to forget her past, Allie runs into Damien, a local rebel with secrets of his own. He's dark, dangerous and he keeps showing up when Allie least expects him to. She has every reason not to trust him. So why does she find herself opening up to him in a way she hasn't been able to with anyone?
As pieces of Damien’s identity emerge, answers to a rumored mystery begin to unfold. By the time Allie unearths the secrets of Damien’s past, she realizes just how intricately they are connected. Now she is caught in a dangerous battle that threatens her life and those she loves.
When I started reading this book I thought at first it was going to be about a spoiled teen trying to fit in with her new step-family. How many times have we read that story?! I was happily surprised when I continued to read! This book deals with so many different emotions that it will suck you in and keep you reading all night. The characters are dealing with loss, teenage peer pressure, new family dynamics, love triangles and…ultimately their own death. Each time I thought I had the ending figured out, the author would twist things up a bit! Enjoy this read! I did!
The Tyrant's Daughter by J.C. Carleson
When her father is killed in a coup, 15-year-old Laila flees from the war-torn middle east to a life of exile and anonymity in the U.S. Gradually she adjusts to a new school, new friends, and a new culture, but while Laila sees opportunity in her new life, her mother is focused on the past. She’s conspiring with CIA operatives and rebel factions to regain the throne their family lost. Laila can’t bear to stand still as an international crisis takes shape around her, but how can one girl stop a conflict that spans generations?
J.C. Carleson delivers a fascinating account of a girl—and a country—on the brink, and a rare glimpse at the personal side of international politics.
Wow! I REALLY enjoyed this book! J.C. Carleson is a very talented author! I truly felt as though I was living the life of this Invisible Queen trying to fit into an American teenager way of life. The author is able to strongly make the point that we take so many things for granted living in the United States. It was also really interesting to see Laila drop the social restrictions placed upon her by her culture and family and try to adjust to dances, clothing, food, school and friends. Watching her mother spiral into drinking made me ponder what would happen to me in the same situation. I really had a hard time putting this book down. There is swearing in parts of this book, so not for my younger kids to read...yet. I would highly, highly recommend reading this one! I will be looking forward to reading more books by this author.
When her father is killed in a coup, 15-year-old Laila flees from the war-torn middle east to a life of exile and anonymity in the U.S. Gradually she adjusts to a new school, new friends, and a new culture, but while Laila sees opportunity in her new life, her mother is focused on the past. She’s conspiring with CIA operatives and rebel factions to regain the throne their family lost. Laila can’t bear to stand still as an international crisis takes shape around her, but how can one girl stop a conflict that spans generations?
J.C. Carleson delivers a fascinating account of a girl—and a country—on the brink, and a rare glimpse at the personal side of international politics.
Wow! I REALLY enjoyed this book! J.C. Carleson is a very talented author! I truly felt as though I was living the life of this Invisible Queen trying to fit into an American teenager way of life. The author is able to strongly make the point that we take so many things for granted living in the United States. It was also really interesting to see Laila drop the social restrictions placed upon her by her culture and family and try to adjust to dances, clothing, food, school and friends. Watching her mother spiral into drinking made me ponder what would happen to me in the same situation. I really had a hard time putting this book down. There is swearing in parts of this book, so not for my younger kids to read...yet. I would highly, highly recommend reading this one! I will be looking forward to reading more books by this author.
Dead Beautiful by Yvonne Woon
On the morning of her sixteenth birthday, Renée Winters was still an ordinary girl. She spent her summers at the beach, had the perfect best friend, and had just started dating the cutest guy at school. No one she'd ever known had died. But all that changes when she finds her parents dead in the Redwood Forest, in what appears to be a strange double murder.
After the funeral Renée’s wealthy grandfather sends her to Gottfried Academy, a remote and mysterious boarding school in Maine, where she finds herself studying subjects like Philosophy, Latin, and the “Crude Sciences.”
It’s there that she meets Dante Berlin, a handsome and elusive boy to whom she feels inexplicably drawn. As they grow closer, unexplainable things begin to happen, but Renée can’t stop herself from falling in love. It’s only when she discovers a dark tragedy in Gottfried’s past that she begins to wonder if the Academy is everything it seems.
I thought this one sounded interesting! Boy was I wrong…I guess that this book was written by an author who LOVED the Twilight book by Stephanie Meyers and someone who has a fascination with the possibility of Zombies…who look attractive. I have not read a Zombie/Dead/Undead book before, but this was not a good one to start with. At times I felt as though the author was quoting Twilight word for word. I was tempted to go get that book just to see if the words were identical! This ending was easy to predict for me. That was a bummer as I felt I stuck through the whole book and hoped for at least a great ending. Not so. This is a series with at least two more books that follow. I won’t be wasting my time.
On the morning of her sixteenth birthday, Renée Winters was still an ordinary girl. She spent her summers at the beach, had the perfect best friend, and had just started dating the cutest guy at school. No one she'd ever known had died. But all that changes when she finds her parents dead in the Redwood Forest, in what appears to be a strange double murder.
After the funeral Renée’s wealthy grandfather sends her to Gottfried Academy, a remote and mysterious boarding school in Maine, where she finds herself studying subjects like Philosophy, Latin, and the “Crude Sciences.”
It’s there that she meets Dante Berlin, a handsome and elusive boy to whom she feels inexplicably drawn. As they grow closer, unexplainable things begin to happen, but Renée can’t stop herself from falling in love. It’s only when she discovers a dark tragedy in Gottfried’s past that she begins to wonder if the Academy is everything it seems.
I thought this one sounded interesting! Boy was I wrong…I guess that this book was written by an author who LOVED the Twilight book by Stephanie Meyers and someone who has a fascination with the possibility of Zombies…who look attractive. I have not read a Zombie/Dead/Undead book before, but this was not a good one to start with. At times I felt as though the author was quoting Twilight word for word. I was tempted to go get that book just to see if the words were identical! This ending was easy to predict for me. That was a bummer as I felt I stuck through the whole book and hoped for at least a great ending. Not so. This is a series with at least two more books that follow. I won’t be wasting my time.
Rapunzel untangled by Cindy C Bennett
Rapunzel is not your average teenager.
For one thing, she has a serious illness that keeps her inside the mysterious Gothel Mansion. And for another, her hair is 15 feet long. Not to mention that she’s also the key to ultimately saving the world from certain destruction. But then she meets a boy named Fane, who changes all she has ever known, and she decides to risk everything familiar to find out who she really is.
Filled with romance, adventure, and mystery, Rapunzel Untangled is one story you won’t want to put down. Discover the true meaning of love and friendship in this modern twist to the classic fairytale. (Description from Goodreads.com)
How many of us have read at least one of the now hugely popular Fairy Tale remakes? Are we all raising our hands? How many of us read one…LOVED IT…had 14 year old daughter read it, who…LOVED IT and then put it quickly on our “to purchase” wish list? This book, as told in the title, is about Rapunzel. BUT she is a modern Rapunzel. She is of course locked in a tower, but manages to get a computer--for homework purposes and meets the hero of our story, Fane (silly name, cute character) on Facebook. Facebook?! Yes, she “Friends Requests” him and makes her first connection with the outside world. Don’t worry; even though we all know the story, this author is skilled at adding humor, adventure, and a great evil villainous. This is a quick read that you won’t want to put down!
Rapunzel is not your average teenager.
For one thing, she has a serious illness that keeps her inside the mysterious Gothel Mansion. And for another, her hair is 15 feet long. Not to mention that she’s also the key to ultimately saving the world from certain destruction. But then she meets a boy named Fane, who changes all she has ever known, and she decides to risk everything familiar to find out who she really is.
Filled with romance, adventure, and mystery, Rapunzel Untangled is one story you won’t want to put down. Discover the true meaning of love and friendship in this modern twist to the classic fairytale. (Description from Goodreads.com)
How many of us have read at least one of the now hugely popular Fairy Tale remakes? Are we all raising our hands? How many of us read one…LOVED IT…had 14 year old daughter read it, who…LOVED IT and then put it quickly on our “to purchase” wish list? This book, as told in the title, is about Rapunzel. BUT she is a modern Rapunzel. She is of course locked in a tower, but manages to get a computer--for homework purposes and meets the hero of our story, Fane (silly name, cute character) on Facebook. Facebook?! Yes, she “Friends Requests” him and makes her first connection with the outside world. Don’t worry; even though we all know the story, this author is skilled at adding humor, adventure, and a great evil villainous. This is a quick read that you won’t want to put down!
Edenbrooke by Julianne Donaldson
Okay, this book is the most fun read I've had in...well forever! It is wonderful! My copy was signed by the author and has since been making the rounds of my friends and family. I'm not exaggerating when I say my copy has probably been read 30 times now. I haven't seen it lately so I hope it's still holding up... Anyway, Julianne Donaldson has written a delightful historical fiction romance! I have been able to re-read the book thanks to my 13 year old begging me to buy her her own copy. Don't worry Julianne, many of these people turned around and bought this must have book! I can't give a description any better than GoodReads did it so here goes:
"Marianne Daventry will do anything to escape the boredom of Bath and the amorous attentions of an unwanted suitor. So when an invitation arrives from her twin sister, Cecily, to join her at a sprawling country estate, she jumps at the chance. Thinking she’ll be able to relax and enjoy her beloved English countryside while her sister snags the handsome heir of Edenbrooke, Marianne finds that even the best laid plans can go awry.
From a terrifying run-in with a highwayman to a seemingly harmless flirtation, Marianne finds herself embroiled in an unexpected adventure filled with enough romance and intrigue to keep her mind racing. Will she be able to rein in her traitorous heart, or will a mysterious stranger sweep her off her feet? Fate had something other than a relaxing summer in mind when it sent Marianne to Edenbrooke."
Trust me on this one when I tell you that you will thoroughly enjoy this whimsical romance! (And hey, if you buy it and don't love it send it my way so I can read it again...I'm having withdrawals!)
And for those of you who are already looking for more from this talented author, Blackmoore just showed up on Goodreads to be out in 2013. I'm doing a dance here folks!
Not into Historical Fiction? Try this Young Adult Fiction Book instead:
"Marianne Daventry will do anything to escape the boredom of Bath and the amorous attentions of an unwanted suitor. So when an invitation arrives from her twin sister, Cecily, to join her at a sprawling country estate, she jumps at the chance. Thinking she’ll be able to relax and enjoy her beloved English countryside while her sister snags the handsome heir of Edenbrooke, Marianne finds that even the best laid plans can go awry.
From a terrifying run-in with a highwayman to a seemingly harmless flirtation, Marianne finds herself embroiled in an unexpected adventure filled with enough romance and intrigue to keep her mind racing. Will she be able to rein in her traitorous heart, or will a mysterious stranger sweep her off her feet? Fate had something other than a relaxing summer in mind when it sent Marianne to Edenbrooke."
Trust me on this one when I tell you that you will thoroughly enjoy this whimsical romance! (And hey, if you buy it and don't love it send it my way so I can read it again...I'm having withdrawals!)
And for those of you who are already looking for more from this talented author, Blackmoore just showed up on Goodreads to be out in 2013. I'm doing a dance here folks!
Not into Historical Fiction? Try this Young Adult Fiction Book instead:
Everneath by Brodi Ashton
I'll admit the first couple of chapters of this book was very confusing. When the book was over I went back and read them and it I felt all better. This book was interesting as it would skip from current to past tense but unlike some books you never felt lost as to what time frame you were in . I was pulled right in and stayed up late (during a vacation even!) reading to finish it. To my shame I had even told my kid's I wouldn't bring a book along with us. Shameful Mommy!!! But hey, you reap the rewards of a good book suggestion!
Last spring, Nikki Beckett vanished, sucked into an underworld known as the Everneath. Now she's returned--to her old life, her family, her boyfriend--before she's banished back to the underworld . . . this time forever. She has six months before the Everneath comes to claim her, six months for good-byes she can't find the words for, six months to find redemption, if it exists.
Nikki longs to spend these precious months forgetting the Everneath and trying to reconnect with her boyfriend, Jack, the person most devastated by her disappearance--and the one person she loves more than anything. But there's just one problem: Cole, the smoldering immortal who enticed her to the Everneath in the first place, has followed Nikki home. Cole wants to take over the throne in the underworld and is convinced Nikki is the key to making it happen. And he'll do whatever it takes to bring her back, this time as his queen.
As Nikki's time on the Surface draws to a close and her relationships begin slipping from her grasp, she is forced to make the hardest decision of her life: find a way to cheat fate and remain on the Surface with Jack or return to the Everneath and become Cole's queen.
I don't usually like a love triangle in my books, but this one worked for me. Spend a few hours with an intriguing book by this new author!
Last spring, Nikki Beckett vanished, sucked into an underworld known as the Everneath. Now she's returned--to her old life, her family, her boyfriend--before she's banished back to the underworld . . . this time forever. She has six months before the Everneath comes to claim her, six months for good-byes she can't find the words for, six months to find redemption, if it exists.
Nikki longs to spend these precious months forgetting the Everneath and trying to reconnect with her boyfriend, Jack, the person most devastated by her disappearance--and the one person she loves more than anything. But there's just one problem: Cole, the smoldering immortal who enticed her to the Everneath in the first place, has followed Nikki home. Cole wants to take over the throne in the underworld and is convinced Nikki is the key to making it happen. And he'll do whatever it takes to bring her back, this time as his queen.
As Nikki's time on the Surface draws to a close and her relationships begin slipping from her grasp, she is forced to make the hardest decision of her life: find a way to cheat fate and remain on the Surface with Jack or return to the Everneath and become Cole's queen.
I don't usually like a love triangle in my books, but this one worked for me. Spend a few hours with an intriguing book by this new author!
December Reviews
My contest to give away the book Not My Type has ended. Congratulations to Tamee who had her name drawn out of the bowl by LouLou! My oldest child is furious at me because I wouldn’t even put her name in the drawing. Sorry JellyBean, just borrow mine! The book is in the mail (or so to speak!)
This month I’m not going to review a book. Go out; spend time with your family rather than reading my suggestions. However, I am going to review two movies for you, one to watch with your family and one to not waste your time watching.
This month I’m not going to review a book. Go out; spend time with your family rather than reading my suggestions. However, I am going to review two movies for you, one to watch with your family and one to not waste your time watching.
The Muppets (2011)
Starring a lot of Muppets and Amy Adams and Jason Segel. Now, I didn’t actually go see this one. I choose to stay home and work on projects so I sent Ethan and the kids. This is a vicarious movie review. They all loved the movie and were quoting lines throughout the afternoon. Ethan said that it had a good message but was funny, the best Muppet Movie yet.
LouLou says: I like it. I like that there was a bad guy and he had evil Moopets.
Bubba says: I love the New Muppet Movie. It was really funny with the jokes and Animal was awesome.
JellyBean says: I loved it! It was awesome, best show of the year. It was really funny and they sang lots of awesome songs.
LouLou says: I like it. I like that there was a bad guy and he had evil Moopets.
Bubba says: I love the New Muppet Movie. It was really funny with the jokes and Animal was awesome.
JellyBean says: I loved it! It was awesome, best show of the year. It was really funny and they sang lots of awesome songs.
Super Eight (2011)
Written and directed by J.J. Abrams and produced by Steven Spielberg. I did NOT like this one. First of all, I have a real problem when Hollywood has kids swearing. Yes, yes, “some kids” may swear in normal conversations, but I don’t choose to have conversations with those kids! I tell my kids regularly that kids that find a need to swear just aren’t intelligent enough to find words to express themselves in an educated way. (This goes for adults too, so there!) This is a suspenseful Sci-Fi with people being grabbed by some horrible alien. The only saving grace for me was that there was a little humor and the “warm and fuzzy” ending. Other than that, it is a pass for me; I should have spent my time reading!
November Reviews
Not My Type A Single Girl’s Guide to Doing It All Wrong
By Melanie Jacobsen
Okay, initially I didn’t even pick this book up because I thought it was a dating book. Married, don’t need it. But later when I saw that this was a 2nd book written by the amazingly funny and creative Melanie Jacobson I rushed right out to get it. Her first book “The List” was such a fun, clever book I was nervous that she would be a one-hit author. Not so! I couldn’t put this book down! The book is about Pepper Spicer who is wallowing in despair after breaking up with her fiancé last minute, living at home to pay off said wedding, and working at a dead end job. Her father, who happens to be a therapist, gives her an ultimatum to change her life. One of the first steps is to write a thank you card weekly. One of her first cards is to the interviewer of a potential new job:
Dear Mr. Graham:
…I also appreciate you sharing your perceptions of my abilities, intellect, and integrity. Having those called into question is always food for thought. I can’t understand for the life of me why people don’t run around doing that kind of thing more. It’s so…invigorating.
I truly hope, with every fiber of my “unqualified and time-wasting” being that you get everything that you so richly deserve. I really, really do…..
Ahh, don’t we so wish that we too could speak to people like that sometimes? This book is so much fun as Pepper begins to step out of her comfort zones. I give this book: 5 stars, 2 thumbs up and a shiny gold sticker on the forehead!
But wait, there’s more! I am giving away a BRAND NEW copy of this book (mine has already been loved too much to offer it!) to a lucky random reader. What do you have to do to win this? I am NOT above bribing people to be my friend. So please go to the Google Friend spot on the right side of my blog page and join my friend list (you don’t need to have a Gmail account, just a Google account, it’s easy AND FREE) and then send me a comment on my NEW Contact Me page (look at the top tabs) telling me what your thoughts are about my blog. Looks, feel, what I need, what I need to stop, you know you’re opinion! I will write everyone’s name down and have my youngest draw the winner!!! Come on, it’s fun and yes, my dear cousin Julie, I will ship internationally! Deadline to enter is Midnight on December 1st.
Okay, initially I didn’t even pick this book up because I thought it was a dating book. Married, don’t need it. But later when I saw that this was a 2nd book written by the amazingly funny and creative Melanie Jacobson I rushed right out to get it. Her first book “The List” was such a fun, clever book I was nervous that she would be a one-hit author. Not so! I couldn’t put this book down! The book is about Pepper Spicer who is wallowing in despair after breaking up with her fiancé last minute, living at home to pay off said wedding, and working at a dead end job. Her father, who happens to be a therapist, gives her an ultimatum to change her life. One of the first steps is to write a thank you card weekly. One of her first cards is to the interviewer of a potential new job:
Dear Mr. Graham:
…I also appreciate you sharing your perceptions of my abilities, intellect, and integrity. Having those called into question is always food for thought. I can’t understand for the life of me why people don’t run around doing that kind of thing more. It’s so…invigorating.
I truly hope, with every fiber of my “unqualified and time-wasting” being that you get everything that you so richly deserve. I really, really do…..
Ahh, don’t we so wish that we too could speak to people like that sometimes? This book is so much fun as Pepper begins to step out of her comfort zones. I give this book: 5 stars, 2 thumbs up and a shiny gold sticker on the forehead!
But wait, there’s more! I am giving away a BRAND NEW copy of this book (mine has already been loved too much to offer it!) to a lucky random reader. What do you have to do to win this? I am NOT above bribing people to be my friend. So please go to the Google Friend spot on the right side of my blog page and join my friend list (you don’t need to have a Gmail account, just a Google account, it’s easy AND FREE) and then send me a comment on my NEW Contact Me page (look at the top tabs) telling me what your thoughts are about my blog. Looks, feel, what I need, what I need to stop, you know you’re opinion! I will write everyone’s name down and have my youngest draw the winner!!! Come on, it’s fun and yes, my dear cousin Julie, I will ship internationally! Deadline to enter is Midnight on December 1st.
Thor
2011 Directed by Kenneth Branagh
My husband LOVES all of the Super Hero movies. He will buy them when they come out even if he hasn’t seen it yet as long as the rating is PG-13 or below. I on the underhand watch them with him if I have nothing better to do or if he begs. However, our friends wanted to go see this movie in the theatre in 3D with them. Big tub of popcorn and a few hours without kids…count me in! I must say, I really, really enjoyed this one (and the popcorn too!) Chris Hemsworth as Thor is of course eye candy, and Anthony Hopkins as his father Odin is a more mature eye candy, but what made this movie great was the humor worked in and the great moral message. Thor had become cocky and his wise father decided that he needed to cast him out of Asgard to Earth for him to hopefully learn humility. We are firm believers that our children can’t watch PG-13 rated movies until they are, well, at least 13. My kids have had to stay home from parties where movies are being played that they can’t watch, I know, we’re so mean! But my husband did show them a little clip of this movie during a family home evening one night. The part he wanted them to see was Odin sending Thor to Earth BUT then he sends Thor’s Hammer after him so that Thor would have the ability to return to him again if he learned to make the right choices. If only Hollywood could make more like this one! Go get yourself some microwave popcorn, maybe some Red Vines and rent this one!
My husband LOVES all of the Super Hero movies. He will buy them when they come out even if he hasn’t seen it yet as long as the rating is PG-13 or below. I on the underhand watch them with him if I have nothing better to do or if he begs. However, our friends wanted to go see this movie in the theatre in 3D with them. Big tub of popcorn and a few hours without kids…count me in! I must say, I really, really enjoyed this one (and the popcorn too!) Chris Hemsworth as Thor is of course eye candy, and Anthony Hopkins as his father Odin is a more mature eye candy, but what made this movie great was the humor worked in and the great moral message. Thor had become cocky and his wise father decided that he needed to cast him out of Asgard to Earth for him to hopefully learn humility. We are firm believers that our children can’t watch PG-13 rated movies until they are, well, at least 13. My kids have had to stay home from parties where movies are being played that they can’t watch, I know, we’re so mean! But my husband did show them a little clip of this movie during a family home evening one night. The part he wanted them to see was Odin sending Thor to Earth BUT then he sends Thor’s Hammer after him so that Thor would have the ability to return to him again if he learned to make the right choices. If only Hollywood could make more like this one! Go get yourself some microwave popcorn, maybe some Red Vines and rent this one!
October Reviews as tributes to Halloween
Paranormalcy and Supernaturally
by Kiersten White
This series was recommended to me by my niece Allysen. They are fun books to read no matter what time of year, but especially around Halloween! They follow 16 year old Evie through life. She is the only human that can see through the “glamours” that all abnormals (vampires, werewolves, fairies, trolls, etc.) put on over their true identities to keep humans oblivious. Along with her trusty pink taser, she goes on “bag and tag” missions to bring some of these abnormals back into control of The Center. These books are YA but are fun to read as Evie desperately wants normal things other teens have such as boyfriends and LOCKERS. They are really fast reads and will keep you giggling and cheering for Evie! Check it out for the ghoulish Halloween Holiday!
This series was recommended to me by my niece Allysen. They are fun books to read no matter what time of year, but especially around Halloween! They follow 16 year old Evie through life. She is the only human that can see through the “glamours” that all abnormals (vampires, werewolves, fairies, trolls, etc.) put on over their true identities to keep humans oblivious. Along with her trusty pink taser, she goes on “bag and tag” missions to bring some of these abnormals back into control of The Center. These books are YA but are fun to read as Evie desperately wants normal things other teens have such as boyfriends and LOCKERS. They are really fast reads and will keep you giggling and cheering for Evie! Check it out for the ghoulish Halloween Holiday!
Better Off Dead
Who can go by another Halloween season without watching the classicly strange movie of Better Off Dead. This movie stars John Cusack about a highshool boy named Lane whose dumped by his girlfriend for someone that can ski better and has a nicer car. The nextdoor neighbors have an adorable foreign exchange student, Monique, who likes him, but he's too busy trying to find different ways to kill himself. Who can forget such lines as: 'Gee, I'm really sorry your Mom blew up'; 'Go that way really fast, if something gets in your way, turn'; And of course 'Two Dollars, I want my two dollars.' This is a must watch--again!
September Reviews
The Thief, The Queen of Attolia, The King of Attolia & A Conspiracy of Kings
By Megan Whalen Turner
This series starts with Gen, a thief who claims he can steal anything, is allowed out of prison to go on a quest with a scholar, Magus, his apprentices, Ambiades & Sophos and the soldier Pol. His continued freedom lies in his ability to steal something from the Gods! The first book, The Thief, can be painful at times to read…it gets confusing and a little boring. But it is like a Tootsie Pop, you must get through the hard sucker to get to the Tootsie Roll in the center. That would be The Queen and King of Attolia! I LOVE these books! They are full of adventure, intrigue, maybe a little romance (wink, wink-wouldn’t love it otherwise) and will leave you guessing until the very end! I however must add that the final book, A Conspiracy of Kings is like finishing the Tootsie Pop and realizing that all that is left is a paper stick, a wrapper and new calories just added to your waistline. That book ALMOST puts a bad enough flavor in your mouth to wish you hadn’t wasted your time with the others. Hmmm, I think I’m now craving a sucker….
Flipped starring Madeline Carroll and Callan McAuliffe
This movie is so stinkin’ cute! It was rated PG and the premise seemed just fine so we sat down as a family to watch. Maybe not the best idea we’ve ever had. Unfortunately the language at times got pretty heated for the young ears of my children (nothing too series, but a lot of it.) This movie is based on a book, same name, by Wendelin Van Draanen. I may have to read it and see if the book has the same issues or if the language was just added for Hollywood. This movie follows Juli Baker and Bryce Loski from the first encounter in grade school when Bryce moves in next door until Junior High School. Juli instantly falls in love with Bryce’s eyes and is positive that he is holding on to her first kiss. It follows the kids through lifes trials including yard work, science fair projects and family relationships. And a secondary fun thing about this movie is seeing a lot of stars that have been out of the limelight for a while including: Aidan Quinn, Anthony Edwards, Rebecca De Mornay, Penelope Ann Miller, and John Mahoney. This movie flips back and forth between characters and that isn’t the only thing that flips throughout the movie. This is a feel good movie that won’t even make you cry…my favorite kind!
August Reviews
Summers at Castle Auburn by Sharon Shinn
I enjoy all sorts of genres and authors. But I have to admit that Sharon Shinn has become one of my favorites, and because of that, she will be my first review. This fantasy/romance book, recommended to me by one of my married nieces, follows a young illegitimate girl named Corie, age 14, as she goes from living with her grandmother, the village witch, to living summers with her step-sister at Castle Auburn. It deals with social, political and romance of a court life. This book has some twists and turns as Corie, and those around her, grow and evolve throughout the years. Even though you know what happens, this book can be read again and again! This book has definitely earned a 5 stars 'Goodreads' review from me!
North and South, BBC by Elizabeth Gaskell
I was recommended this movie by a fellow romantic. I was on the library waiting list FOREVER and when I finally got it I realized that Patrick Swayze shouldn’t be in it. I had ordered the North and South TV mini-series about America. This 1855 book turned BBC mini-series was written about Milton, ENGLAND and follows our heroine Margaret Hale, played by Daniela Denby-Ashe. The hero, John Thornton, played by Richard Armitage does a fabulous job as the sulky jilted suitor of our snobbish Margaret. I had to read the book to understand why John was constantly whining to his mother that Margaret was too good for him because she was a gentleman’s daughter (even though they were penniless) and John was a wealthy (momma’s boy) textile owner. But, the social status at that time stressed that “gentleman” no matter how lacking in money they were, were much better than tradesman no matter how wealthy they were…boy how times have changed. Like many of the characters in literature of this period, don’t become too attached, because the character will probably die at some point (don’t believe me, let me point out that Charles Dickens was the editor, enough said.) The last 2 minutes of this movie are worth the 231 minutes you view to get to them. My helpful hint, if you decide you want to rewind the last 2 minutes over and over with a dorky smile on your face, make sure you do it when your ten year old daughter is out of the room so she won’t openly mock you!