tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3587042326720415042024-02-06T19:15:50.879-08:00BAM Book ReviewsBrianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04161712804034870637noreply@blogger.comBlogger392125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-21130145310633548092015-04-14T18:55:00.000-07:002015-04-14T18:55:00.031-07:00Throne of Glass (#1-3) by Sarah J. Maas<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2yOvPJKDD3B4QqFOB8BYw1N0C1YfoJtOCt46feGjGVP9KKaT3xbqo85HUzJ7V40DJN31Emhraxz5_iAYB0X7dbhzrs3rgDWdIq95T2S1KUacfEpbCT7SRULGfAGo0QURcRt9aGUUUNGI/s1600/throneofglass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2yOvPJKDD3B4QqFOB8BYw1N0C1YfoJtOCt46feGjGVP9KKaT3xbqo85HUzJ7V40DJN31Emhraxz5_iAYB0X7dbhzrs3rgDWdIq95T2S1KUacfEpbCT7SRULGfAGo0QURcRt9aGUUUNGI/s1600/throneofglass.jpg" height="400" width="262" /></a><b>Publisher: </b>Bloomsbury<br />
<b>Release Date: </b>2012<br />
<b>Source: </b>Bought<br />
<b>Rating: </b>A-<br />
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After serving out a year of hard labor in the salt mines of Endovier for her crimes, 18-year-old assassin Celaena Sardothien is dragged before the Crown Prince. Prince Dorian offers her her freedom on one condition: she must act as his champion in a competition to find a new royal assassin. Her opponents are men-thieves and assassins and warriors from across the empire, each sponsored by a member of the king's council. If she beats her opponents in a series of eliminations, she'll serve the kingdom for three years and then be granted her freedom.<BR><br />Celaena finds her training sessions with the captain of the guard, Westfall, challenging and exhilarating. But she's bored stiff by court life. Things get a little more interesting when the prince starts to show interest in her... but it's the gruff Captain Westfall who seems to understand her best.<BR><br />Then one of the other contestants turns up dead... quickly followed by another.<BR><br />Can Celaena figure out who the killer is before she becomes a victim? As the young assassin investigates, her search leads her to discover a greater destiny than she could possibly have imagined.</blockquote>
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Sarah J. Maas is a truly masterful storyteller. There are certain qualities in a book that really pull me in, and the first is powerful character development, which Maas is obviously no rookie at. From the opening line of the novel, Maas sets the scene for this incredibly strong-willed, sharp, unrelenting heroine named Celaena, who seems flawless even in the most trying circumstances—working as a slave in the salt-mines of a land named Endovier. I came to sympathize with, and love Celaena when her physical and emotional strength were tested at every plot turn. Maas reveals a soft side to her heroine that is passionately susceptible to such mortal dilemmas as forbidden love, shame and uncertainty, which make her a realistic and grounded character that really drives the novel forward.<br />
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I cannot recommend this book highly enough to anyone who enjoys a fast-paced fantasy story spiced with mystery, intrigue, betrayal, romance, wit and soooo much more. I happen to be a tiny bit obsessed with fantasy/dystopian novels, so I’ve read my fair share of bad ones. Take it from me: Throne of Glass is not one of them.<br />
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With that said, although I loved the plot’s twists and turns, the ultimate resolution to Celaena’s most difficult mystery felt somehow too abrupt (maybe because I was enjoying the story too much!) I wasn’t all that satisfied with the fact that after an incredible journey with Celeana through victory, heartbreak, and everything else, her answers were almost handed to her. I would have loved to see her power through her last duel without help. It left me with a strangely sad feeling that the invincible assassin at the beginning of the book was not sharp enough after all to defeat her enemies unaided. Sorry for seeming vague, but I don’t want to spoil anything, and you should still read it!<br />
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Regardless of how Celaena discovered the truth behind her compelling mystery, I loved the story enough to want to finish the series. YA books are always hard because fitting a solid plot and developing mystery is a tough task to do in the 80,000 word window that these books usually have, but Sarah J. Maas manages to pull you in in keep you glued to the world she has created. It is vivid and riveting, and not at all overdone. By the time I flipped to the last page I felt so invested in her characters, and in their future, which is the mark of a great book!<br />
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PST! Kelsey is a new contributor to BAM Book Reviews! Learn more about her <a href="http://bambookreviews.blogspot.com/p/about-bam.html" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
Brianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04161712804034870637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-16917150476932125042014-06-30T11:14:00.001-07:002014-06-30T11:15:26.298-07:00Life by Committee by Corey Ann Haydu<div class="separator tr_bq" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Publisher: </b>Katherine Tegen<br />
<b>Release Date: </b>May 13, 2014<br />
<b>Source: </b>BEA 14<br />
<b>Edition: </b>Hardcover<br />
<b>Pages: </b>304<br />
<b>Rating: </b>A<br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17693452-life-by-committee" target="_blank">Goodreads</a>
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<blockquote>
Some secrets are too good to keep.<br />
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Tabitha might be the only girl in the history of the world who actually gets less popular when she gets hot. But her so-called friends say she’s changed, and they’ve dropped her flat.<br />
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Now Tab has no one to tell about the best and worst thing that has ever happened to her: Joe, who spills his most intimate secrets to her in their nightly online chats. Joe, whose touch is so electric, it makes Tab wonder if she could survive an actual kiss. Joe, who has Tabitha brimming with the restless energy of falling in love. Joe, who is someone else’s boyfriend.<br />
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Just when Tab is afraid she’ll burst from keeping the secret of Joe inside, she finds Life by Committee. The rules of LBC are simple: tell a secret, receive an assignment. Complete the assignment to keep your secret safe.<br />
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Tab likes it that the assignments push her to her limits, empowering her to live boldly and go further than she’d ever go on her own.<br />
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But in the name of truth and bravery, how far is too far to go?</blockquote>
My motivation to read/blog/do almost anything besides watch Netflix has been somewhat non-existent for a few months. I feel like I belong in the music video of Summertime Sadness or something... pathetic, I know. Anyway, after picking up 5-10 different books and putting them down after the first chapter, I finally came across Life by Committee. I wasn't too optimistic, to be honest. After all, some of the other books I put down before LBC received RAVING reviews. If they weren't going to pull me out of my rut, why would LBC? And then... I read the first page... and then the second... and soon I was on a reading roller coaster that only went up, my friend. My emotions, however... well, that's a different story.<br />
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After reading LBC, I literally feel like I should tell every female I know to read it and learn something because way too many women have been the "side chick". I know, I know, every situation is different. Sometimes people fall in love while they're in a relationship with a different person... but in most cases, being the "side chick" is a very, very bad thing. I've never been the "side chick" and hell, I hope I never put myself in that situation, but Haydu writes in a way that made me feel like I was. If I ever had any temptation of going after a guy with a girlfriend (I didn't, FYI), well, you can say that is LONG GONE by now. While reading about Tabitha's journey, I had this pit in my stomach that I usually only feel during real-life situations that include heartbreak and loss. THAT is when you know you've struck gold. If an author can make me feel THAT close to a character, to the point of feeling like you're going through the same situation as them, well, that is gold.<br />
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Not only did LBC make me want to rage against people that made Tabitha (and myself) feel the way we did... but it also inspired me to be my bravest self and go for what I want in life... without being reckless and inconsiderate. Haydu showed me that life is too short to be anything but amazing. Haydu also showed me that it's okay to take chances in life because the end result might be life-changing.<br />
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This book is exactly what I needed at this point in my life. I feel empowered, brave, and my fear of showing any form of vulnerability has lessened. If you want a book to pull you out of your rut, make you fee like you're alive and inspire you, then I completely recommend and peer-pressure you to read Life by Committee.<br />
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<br />Brianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04161712804034870637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-32072399505905882512014-01-03T20:44:00.003-08:002014-01-03T20:44:50.882-08:00Escape from Eden by Elisa Nader<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Publisher: </b>Merit Press<br />
<b>Release Date: </b>August 18, 2013<br />
<b>Source: </b>Publisher<br />
<b>Edition: </b>Hardcover<br />
<b>Pages: </b>272<br />
<b>Rating: </b>A<br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17245704-escape-from-eden" target="_blank">Goodreads</a><br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Since the age of ten, Mia has lived under the iron fist of the fundamentalist preacher who lured her mother away to join his fanatical family of followers. In Edenton, a supposed “Garden of Eden” deep in the South American jungle, everyone follows the Reverend’s strict but arbitrary rules—even the mandate of whom they can marry. Now sixteen, Mia dreams of slipping away from the armed guards who keep the faithful in, and the curious out. When the rebellious and sexy Gabriel, a new boy, arrives with his family, Mia sees a chance to escape.<br />
<br />But the scandalous secrets the two discover beyond the compound’s façade are more shocking than anything they ever imagined. While Gabriel has his own terrible secrets, he and Mia bond together, more than friends and freedom fighters. But is there time to think of each other as they race to stop the Reverend’s paranoid plan to free his flock from the corrupt world? Can two teenagers crush a criminal mastermind? And who will die in the fight to save the ones they love from a madman who’s only concerned about his own secrets?</blockquote>
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I really wish that I got to read <i>Escape from Eden </i>sooner rather than later. Unfortunately, my classes got in the way this past semester. Eventually... winter break came and rescued me from my exams and semester long projects, which means I finally got to devour this little beauty. After finally reading <i>Escape from Eden, </i>I can honestly say it<i> </i>was nothing short of sensational.<br />
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I've always had a slight interest in cults and how the brainwashing typically comes into play. Why are these people so gullible? How can they really believe everything this cult leader is saying, no matter how bizarre it may be? Living in the world that Nadar created was mind-boggling in the best possible way. Sure, this novel <i>is </i>a work of fiction but after doing some <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2008/US/11/12/jonestown.factsheet/" target="_blank">research</a> about cults this past semester, I've come to learn some of the events that occurred in <i>Escape from Eden </i>aren't that far off from some real life events that have happened in the past. After learning that, well, I'm officially creeped out.<br />
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The first half-ish of <i>Escape from Eden</i> wasn't totally eventful but it was still completely compelling. You get to learn about the community, Edenton, that Mia and her family resides in. I found Mia to be relatable and authentic in her actions and was happy to root for her throughout the story. The romance in the story isn't the main focus and I enjoyed that, because much bigger and more important things were happening. For how much romance there is, it's done well and adds a little something to keep readers interested.<br />
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The second half-ish of <i>Escape from Eden </i>is shocking and sickening and I loved every minute of it. I kept catching myself trying to read ahead to see what happens, and then covering the rest of the page up to contain myself. I really respect the author and publisher for keeping <i>Escape from Eden</i> a standalone novel because I'm sure it could have easily been turned into another trilogy in the YA world. BUT, they kept it a standalone and it worked out perfectly.<br />
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If you couldn't already tell, I completely recommend this book to anyone interested in cults or even wanting an exciting read. If you decide to check it out, I'd love to know what you think! Leave a comment down below and let me know your thoughts.<br />
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<br />Brianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04161712804034870637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-41223064895976492102013-12-15T20:43:00.003-08:002013-12-15T20:43:45.586-08:00All Our Yesterdays (Cassandra Chronicles #1) by Cristin Terrill<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Publisher: </b>Disney Hyperion<br />
<b>Release Date: </b>September 3, 2013<br />
<b>Source: </b>BEA<br />
<b>Edition: </b>ARC<br />
<b>Pages: </b>368<br />
<b>Rating: </b>C<br />
<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13514612-all-our-yesterdays?ac=1">Goodreads</a><br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"You have to kill him." Imprisoned in the heart of a secret military base, Em has nothing except the voice of the boy in the cell next door and the list of instructions she finds taped inside the drain.<br />
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Only Em can complete the final instruction. She’s tried everything to prevent the creation of a time machine that will tear the world apart. She holds the proof: a list she has never seen before, written in her own hand. Each failed attempt in the past has led her to the same terrible present—imprisoned and tortured by a sadistic man called the doctor while war rages outside.<br />
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Marina has loved her best friend James since the day he moved next door when they were children. A gorgeous, introverted science prodigy from one of America’s most famous families, James finally seems to be seeing Marina in a new way, too. But on one disastrous night, James’s life crumbles apart, and with it, Marina’s hopes for their future. Now someone is trying to kill him. Marina will protect James, no matter what. Even if it means opening her eyes to a truth so terrible that she may not survive it. At least not as the girl she once was.</blockquote>
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After hearing <i>All Our Yesterdays </i>being talked about during the YA Editor's Buzz panel at BEA, I knew I had to score a copy of it-one way or another. At the time, I hadn't read any time travel books and it wasn't at the top of my priority list, either. However, the editor (whose name is escaping me) persuaded me to give <i>All Our Yesterdays </i>a shot. As much as I'd like to agree with the majority of <i>All Our Yesterdays</i>' fans, I honestly wasn't impressed.<br />
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I think the reason I'd avoided time travel books in the past is because I don't like the feeling of confusion. For the most part, I like to know what's happening during a book, and for the majority of <i>All Our Yesterdays</i>, I was so confused. Towards the end of <i>All Our Yesterdays</i>, most of the questions I had were answered... I just wish it didn't take so long. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy books that keep me guessing... but by the end, I grew so impatient that I didn't care about the ending that much.<br />
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Even though I didn't care so much for <i>All Our Yesterdays</i>, I understand why others do. The writing is really engaging and the whole idea is fantastic. The characters were really intriguing and overall, I did care what happened to them... just not enough to want to continue the series. I really wish I enjoyed this one more but I guess what they say is true: you can't make everyone happy.<br />
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Brianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04161712804034870637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-91492193539714213792013-10-16T19:03:00.000-07:002013-10-16T19:03:14.150-07:00Hereafter (Shadowlands #2) by Kate Brian<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhItZ5JPiMqzFoVxY_TLAYHiM59CLnL9GGybAA9pwq6dBmYU2ovhyMIRsp68bjpAsdpb0z6Umc3RLac6llPhkKSfzoUESnj9oW5OFUpaNbywpkvDgSWXWrMhjomQHVCiG24q5IG_1VXcgM/s1600/Review.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhItZ5JPiMqzFoVxY_TLAYHiM59CLnL9GGybAA9pwq6dBmYU2ovhyMIRsp68bjpAsdpb0z6Umc3RLac6llPhkKSfzoUESnj9oW5OFUpaNbywpkvDgSWXWrMhjomQHVCiG24q5IG_1VXcgM/s400/Review.JPG" width="263" /></a><br />
<b>Publisher: </b>Disney-Hyperion<br />
<b>Release Date: </b>October 1, 2013<br />
<b>Source: </b>BEA 2013<br />
<b>Edition: </b>ARC (Advanced Reader's Copy)<br />
<b>Pages: </b>320<br />
<b>Rating: </b>B+<br />
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<b>Summary and review of <i>Hereafter</i> may contain spoilers from the series' first novel, <i>Shadowlands.</i></b><br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Rory Miller thought her life was over when a serial killer set his sights on her and forced her into witness protection. But a fresh start on Juniper Landing Island was exactly what she and her family needed. For the first time in years she and her sister hang out at the beach, gossip about boys, and party together. She's also made friends with a local clique--including a magnetic and mysterious boy named Tristan.<br /> <br />But Rory's world is about to change again. Picturesque Juniper Landing isn't what it seems. The truth about the swirling fog that rolls in each morning, the bridge that leads to nowhere, and those beautiful locals who seem to watch Rory's every move is more terrifying than being hunted by Steven Nell. And all Rory ever wanted was the truth. Even if it means learning that she can never go home again.</blockquote>
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YES! <i>Hereafter </i>was a whopping improvement from the first book in the series, <i>Shadowlands. </i>Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed <i>Shadowlands</i>, but I expected it to blow me away and it unfortunately didn't. <i>Hereafter</i>, however, was much better!<br />
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I didn't expect <i>Hereafter </i>to creep me out as much as <i>Shadowlands </i>did. After the mystery within <i>Shadowlands</i> was revealed, I thought all of the spookiness would disappear, and I. Was. Wrong. The creep factor absolutely remained in <i>Hereafter,</i> which I was so excited by since I rarely read anything of this nature. It's such a fun change of pace for me!<br />
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Kate Brian has a special quality to her writing that just sucks you in and doesn't let you go.<i> </i>Just like with <i>Shadowlands, </i>I had a difficult time putting <i>Hereafter</i> down. I can't be sure if it's just because the writing flows so well or if the storyline is just that gripping. Actually, it's probably a combination of both.<br />
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Even though I really enjoyed <i>Hereafter</i>, it was a little predictable at times. I wish there were a few more plot twists that shocked me, but that's okay. I have a feeling the next installment will have me guessing and then BAM! Totally (and hopefully) shock me.<br />
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Overall, <i>Hereafter</i> was a pretty satisfying read that left me craving more. Even though there are some predictable parts within, I would recommend it for anyone wanting a quick and spooky read, especially since Halloween is right around the corner!<br />
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Brianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04161712804034870637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-30672631810531784842013-10-16T16:02:00.002-07:002013-10-16T16:02:57.354-07:00Waiting on Wednesday (26)<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 19.1875px;">Waiting on Wednesday was started by Jill over at </span><a href="http://breakingthespine.blogspot.com/" style="color: #2bc5d5; line-height: 19.1875px; text-decoration: none;">Breaking the Spine</a><span style="line-height: 19.1875px;">. It's a weekly feature that lets us share what titles we're waiting on!</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19.1875px;"><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/15832932-what-i-thought-was-true?ac=1">What I Thought was True by Huntley Fitzpatrick</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Publication Date: </b>April 15, 2014</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Publisher: </b>Dial Books for Young Readers</span><br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="color: #181818; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px;">Gwen Castle's Biggest Mistake Ever, Cassidy Somers, is slumming it as a yard boy on her Nantucket-esque island this summer. He's a rich kid from across the bridge in Stony Bay, and she hails from a family of fishermen and housecleaners who keep the island's summer people happy. Gwen worries a life of cleaning houses will be her fate too, but just when it looks like she'll never escape her past—or the island—Gwen's dad gives her some shocking advice. Sparks fly and secret histories unspool as Gwen spends a gorgeous, restless summer struggling to resolve what she thought was true—about the place she lives, the people she loves, and even herself—with what really is.</span></blockquote>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 19.1875px;"><br /></span><span style="line-height: 19.1875px;">As some of you may know, I adored My Life Next Door by Huntley Fitzpatrick. I read and <a href="http://bambookreviews.blogspot.com/2013/08/my-life-next-door-by-huntley-fitzpatrick.html">reviewed</a> it during the summer and thought it was just fantastic. I'm so excited to get my hands on What I Thought was True and hopefully it'll be just as great as MLND.</span>
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</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfEUi4NqZ-HjybHWzZOqH9Z_ktLt-nx3McHfD9lWznelaJq9q5bAK0c3jOGoDZJHvXQqrTOx7Bl-meKd_g7Ux2wmTI6gWra_a_CPV1L66UZILepVx9Ke6Zf46xKZ1vT4HbLSMsZhGmTnk/s1600/Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfEUi4NqZ-HjybHWzZOqH9Z_ktLt-nx3McHfD9lWznelaJq9q5bAK0c3jOGoDZJHvXQqrTOx7Bl-meKd_g7Ux2wmTI6gWra_a_CPV1L66UZILepVx9Ke6Zf46xKZ1vT4HbLSMsZhGmTnk/s1600/Signature.jpg" /></span></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Trebuchet, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 19.1875px;"><br /></span>Brianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04161712804034870637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-1904085622401100702013-09-21T20:03:00.000-07:002013-09-21T20:03:01.954-07:00Hey there! I'm Nick!All right, so I'm really bad at writing introduction posts of this sort, but I'm going to give it a try. I'm Nick, and like everyone else here I'm pretty into shamelessly devouring and just as shamelessly enjoying the occasional "young adult" book, series--what have you. Chances are, if I'm reading a young adult novel it's going to be dystopian, futuristic, post-apocalyptic... something of that nature. Maybe not, I can enjoy a good romance, an arresting mystery, or just trashy teen lit in general. But I'm going to be brutally honest and opinionated, so if you read a review of mine, take it with a grain of salt. I'm going to back up my judgments, but if you don't agree with them, that's all right. Everyone is different. A review is just that, it's not an end-all, and you should never not read a book just because of one review.<br />
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So yeah. What I'm into besides teen lit: I love videogames. I love writing. My favorite writer is David Sedaris, he's a hysterical genius. My favorite film is Girl, Interrupted. My favorite book/series is The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo and the series it belongs to (the Millenium trilogy). I love Girls; Lena Dunham is my spirit animal. I'm also helplessly addicted to American Horror Story.<br />
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I guess that's about it? Look out for my reviews and my keen male insight!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-27682781745199954232013-09-02T13:09:00.003-07:002013-09-02T13:09:45.676-07:00The Fault in Our Stars by John Green<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/11870085-the-fault-in-our-stars?from_search=true" target="_blank">Goodreads</a></b><br />
<b>Publisher: </b>Dutton<br />
<b>Release Date: </b>January 10, 2012<br />
<b>Source: </b>Bought (Barnes & Noble)<br />
<b>Edition: </b>Hardcover<br />
<b>Pages: </b>316<br />
<b>Rating: </b>A+<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Diagnosed with Stage IV thyroid cancer at 13, Hazel was prepared to die until, at 14, a medical miracle shrunk the tumours in her lungs... for now.<br />
<br />Two years post-miracle, sixteen-year-old Hazel is post-everything else, too; post-high school, post-friends and post-normalcy. And even though she could live for a long time (whatever that means), Hazel lives tethered to an oxygen tank, the tumours tenuously kept at bay with a constant chemical assault.<br />
<br />Enter Augustus Waters. A match made at cancer kid support group, Augustus is gorgeous, in remission, and shockingly to her, interested in Hazel. Being with Augustus is both an unexpected destination and a long-needed journey, pushing Hazel to re-examine how sickness and health, life and death, will define her and the legacy that everyone leaves behind.</blockquote>
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Tears. <i>The Fault in Our Stars</i> produces many, many tears. I'm sure you've already heard this before, though. I know that almost every other book blog in existence has already reviewed <i>The Fault in Our Stars</i>, but I figured I'd give my two cents as well, anyway! Even though I haven't read any "cancer books", I know that <i>The Fault in Our Stars</i> is so much more than that.<i> </i>I was actually a smidge bit anxious going into <i>The Fault in Our Stars</i> because John Green is supposed to be this YA legend. He has such a huge fan base and so many readers adore him. In the past, I've read <i>Looking for Alaska</i> and while I thought it was good, it wasn't as amazing as I hoped it would be. With that said, <i>The Fault in Our Stars </i>turned me into another adoring reader of Green's. I don't think any other author has ever made me sob in the way that Mr. Green did, and for that, I applaud him.<br />
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Going into this book, I was pretty sure I knew what was going to happen. Bloggers were saying things along the lines of "<i>The Fault in Our Stars </i>is one of the most heartbreaking books I've ever read!" That can obviously only mean one thing, right? Wrong. Because I was so confident about my predictions, I didn't expect the unexpected. With that said, don't try and figure out what's going to happen. Why? Because <i>The Fault in Our Stars</i> isn't the type of book to keep guessing through. Just read it, indulge, and (silently, or in my case, deafeningly) weep.<br />
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What I liked the most about <i>The Fault in Our Stars</i> is that it felt so genuine. I didn't feel like I was reading a YA novel that was written by a 30 year old male (no offense, Mr. Green!) I felt like I was reading the true story of the exquisite Hazel Grace Lancaster and how she met her soul mate, Augustus Waters. Speaking of Augustus... can more people like him exist? Pretty please? Augustus is so unforgettable and will definitely stay in my heart forever as one of my favorite characters. You would think because I'm so obsessed with the main characters of <i>The Fault in Our Stars</i>, that I might not have enough room in my heart for any minor characters. WRONG, again! I pretty much fell in love with every character from <i>The Fault in Our Stars</i> besides Monica, even the characters I'm probably meant to dislike. They were just perfect, but flawed, but oh so perfect. I want to meet all of them.<br />
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I can't tell you how many pages of this book that I bookmarked (I could... but that would take a while.) I'm not the type of reader to mark my favorite pages or passages because nothing usually captures my attention enough to <i>make</i> me stop reading and do it. I made sure to do this with <i>The Fault in Our Stars </i>though. There's something about the way this book made me feel, that I know when I return to certain passages, the same feelings will return and it'll be amazing. This book just understood me. This was definitely a huge, gushy, choppy review, but I hope you've taken everything I just said into consideration.<br />
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If you haven't read <i>The Fault in Our Stars </i>yet, I highly, highly encourage you to do so, and please let me know what you think! If you've already read <i>The Fault in Our Stars, </i>let me know what you thought in the comments or leave me a link to your review!<br />
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Brianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04161712804034870637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-20189866293077476642013-08-21T12:02:00.000-07:002013-08-21T12:02:00.449-07:00Waiting on Wednesday (25)Waiting on Wednesday was started by Jill over at <a href="http://breakingthespine.blogspot.com/">Breaking the Spine</a>. It's a weekly feature that lets us share what titles we're waiting on!<br />
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<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17572888-until-it-hurts-to-stop?ac=1">Until It Hurts to Stop by Jennifer R. Hubbard</a><br />
<b>Publication Date: </b>September 12, 2013<br />
<b>Publisher: </b>Viking Juvenile<br />
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When you can’t trust anyone, how can you ever feel safe?<br />
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In seventh grade, Maggie Camden was the class outcast. Every day, the other girls tripped her, pinched her, trapped her in the bathroom, told her she would be better off dead. Four years have passed since then, and Maggie’s tormentors seem to have moved on. The ringleader of them all, Raleigh Barringer, even moved out of town. But Maggie has never stopped watching for attacks, and every laugh still sounds like it’s at her expense. The only time Maggie feels at peace is when she’s hiking up in the mountains with her best friend, Nick. Lately, though, there’s a new sort of tension between the two of them—a tension both dangerous and delicious. But how can Maggie expect anything more out of Nick when all she’s ever been told is that she’s ugly, she’s pathetic, she’s unworthy of love? And how can she ever feel safe, now that Raleigh Barringer is suddenly—terrifyingly—back in town?
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I've heard so many amazing things about Jennifer Hubbard. This sounds like an incredible, dramatic read and I hope I get the chance to read it!<br />
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<br />Brianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04161712804034870637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-47553616462993200312013-08-19T20:01:00.000-07:002013-09-20T10:52:41.809-07:00Current Obsession (1)Hey readers! This is a feature I've been wanting to introduce for quite some time now. I think I'm going to call it "Current Obsession" and it's completely inspired by the monthly "favorites" videos that may be seen on <a href="http://www.youtube.com/">YouTube</a> (ex: <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prCYyWRU8bo">missglamorazzi</a>, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XdLYKCbl3lo">Tanya Burr</a>, & <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2XthsdSTltc">DulceCandy87</a>).<br />
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While BAM Book Reviews is primarily a YA book blog, I thought I would mix things up around here and show you all some random obsessions of mine. These obsessions can range from TV shows, movies, music, makeup, food, etc. For now, I'm going to stick to featuring one "obsession" per post. I'm so excited about this new feature because I'll get to share some of my other interests besides books and hopefully introduce all of you to some cool new things!<br />
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"From the creator of “Weeds” comes a heartbreaking and hilarious new series set in a women’s prison. Piper Chapman’s wild past comes back to haunt her, resulting in her arrest and detention in a federal penitentiary. To pay her debt to society, Piper trades her comfortable New York life for an orange prison jumpsuit and finds unexpected conflict and camaraderie amidst an eccentric group of inmates."</blockquote>
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Okay, so I jumped on the bandwagon that was rolling through Twitter. You caught me! <i>Orange is the New Black </i>is absolutely my new obsession. I'm twitching now that I've ended season one and have to wait for season two to be streaming on Netflix. I started watching this show on a Friday night and then finished the season finale on the following Monday night/Tuesday morning. THAT'S CRAZY for me. This show is a complete addiction and I would recommend it to anyone over the age of 18 (due to mature content.)<br />
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I had a feeling I would love <i>Orange is the New Black</i> because Jenji Kohan created it. As soon as I learned that Kohan was behind this marvelous show, I knew I had to watch it. Kohan also created <i>Weeds</i> which is one of my other favorite shows that you should watch (if you haven't already!)<br />
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As you can tell from the description of above of <i>OITNB, </i>the setting is a women's prison. Personally, I've always had such a fascination with prison so this show was especially interesting to me. However, I think it will appeal to a large audience: males and females of most ages. The show centers around so many different types of characters of different ethnicities and ages. I think that's why the show is doing so well so far. There always seems to be a story that someone in the audience can relate to and I adore that.<br />
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I was beginning to rethink my subscription to Netflix but now that <i>Orange is the New Black </i>is exclusive on it, my subscription will be staying put. Once again, I highly, highly recommend this show to anyone and everyone (mostly over the age of 18) and hope you adore it as much as I do!<br />
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Brianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04161712804034870637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-77369302618394686402013-08-14T21:28:00.001-07:002013-08-14T21:28:54.253-07:00My Life Next Door by Huntley Fitzpatrick<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWnB0ctAXU99DK3lvjOBKW_T_n3jCInCTjfoeRPFqRk0uuf4iAnjQiA1GxAEcKr5M5RZ9xTRQmRNDT26g1DMB-_8OwY8fTIffMWofOkPJF0-fQQ1LcliIO1gSiaDNgfEw-AvuE7eCOU-c/s1600/Review.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWnB0ctAXU99DK3lvjOBKW_T_n3jCInCTjfoeRPFqRk0uuf4iAnjQiA1GxAEcKr5M5RZ9xTRQmRNDT26g1DMB-_8OwY8fTIffMWofOkPJF0-fQQ1LcliIO1gSiaDNgfEw-AvuE7eCOU-c/s400/Review.JPG" width="265" /></a></div>
<b>Publisher: </b>Dial<br />
<b>Release Date: </b>June 14, 2012<br />
<b>Source: </b>Bought (Ollies Bargain Outlet)<br />
<b>Edition: </b>Hardcover<br />
<b>Pages: </b>394<br />
<b>Rating: </b>A+<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>"One thing my mother never knew, and would disapprove of most of all, was that I watched the Garretts. All the time."</i><br />
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The Garretts are everything the Reeds are not. Loud, messy, affectionate. And every day from her rooftop perch, Samantha Reed wishes she was one of them . . . until one summer evening, Jase Garrett climbs up next to her and changes everything.<br />
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As the two fall fiercely for each other, stumbling through the awkwardness and awesomeness of first love, Jase's family embraces Samantha - even as she keeps him a secret from her own. Then something unthinkable happens, and the bottom drops out of Samantha's world. She's suddenly faced with an impossible decision. Which perfect family will save her? Or is it time she saved herself?</blockquote>
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<i>My Life Next Door</i> was one of the lovely books I brought on vacation with me this summer. I remembered reading a ton of raving reviews of this book and thought it would be the perfect poolside read... and it was! I took this book everywhere with me for 2 days in Mexico. Even when I went <i>in</i> the pool to cool down, I had to take it with me and hide in the corner (to prevent any book damage, of course.)<br />
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Has anyone seen the movie <i>Cheaper by the Dozen? </i>Well if you watch that movie, subtract a few children, imagine the family being 10x more fascinating and endearing, and use "the girl next door" type of character for narration, you'll have <i>My Life Next Door. </i>While <i>My Life Next Door</i> isn't the most action-packed read, I was still finding myself flipping the pages as fast as I could.<br />
<i><br /></i>I found myself rather obsessed with the mesmerizing characters that Fitzpatrick thoughtfully created. The whole Garrett family is so hilarious that I found myself laughing out loud quite often while reading about them. I typically don't show any emotion when I'm reading a book, unless I'm reading something sad (cry baby alert!), but I completely wore my heart on my sleeve during this adventure--I couldn't help it!<br />
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The main character, Samantha Reed is pretty much perfect, not in the annoying way though! Samantha isn't like most teens I read about in YA. She's very level-headed and wise beyond her age. Oh... and Jase? He is also perfect. He's even more perfect than Samantha. Jase is amazing and everything any girl could ever want in a guy. He's sweet, funny, and has officially made it into my top 5 list of book boyfriends.<br />
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I won't spoil anything for you guys, but I do need to say that there is something that happens towards the end of <i>My Life Next Door</i> that is a bit somber, but realistic and very appreciated. Huntley Fitzpatrick knows how to write a book. Scratch that! Huntley Fitzpatrick knows how to write a freaking good book. If you enjoy a fun and tender contemporary, then definitely pick this one up. I couldn't recommend it more.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT_aZ0xihuarkErpUi_QK1eF1F_8Hqj8RvYBuZHub3xupoEpF3NtyHuYAV1S-64tkNyZr-YQP_wipMG-hM1iUBgvQ7mSjfA6aAAHmIFJVDGfmDRChSW4rpDb-z83R3U3nwuf73x1f5Umc/s1600/Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT_aZ0xihuarkErpUi_QK1eF1F_8Hqj8RvYBuZHub3xupoEpF3NtyHuYAV1S-64tkNyZr-YQP_wipMG-hM1iUBgvQ7mSjfA6aAAHmIFJVDGfmDRChSW4rpDb-z83R3U3nwuf73x1f5Umc/s1600/Signature.jpg" /></a></div>
Brianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04161712804034870637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-45827640123403878182013-08-14T19:44:00.000-07:002013-08-14T19:44:29.521-07:00Waiting on Wednesday (24)Waiting on Wednesday was started by Jill over at <a href="http://breakingthespine.blogspot.com/">Breaking the Spine</a>. It's a weekly feature that lets us share what titles we're waiting on!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDonLLa0ec2Jl-rFqQPwWo8FIn0e-slsBl6ork5_tfI-a6pm9dPft5YrGO46kIcpq5HsQv-xqPkYBAKHWx4lzx81Qqy59SBbF2Yav9B6rYdo9BOuYih9dvKc8kz4vDiiZruGbPAZ8MpZc/s1600/waitingonwed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDonLLa0ec2Jl-rFqQPwWo8FIn0e-slsBl6ork5_tfI-a6pm9dPft5YrGO46kIcpq5HsQv-xqPkYBAKHWx4lzx81Qqy59SBbF2Yav9B6rYdo9BOuYih9dvKc8kz4vDiiZruGbPAZ8MpZc/s400/waitingonwed.jpg" width="263" /></a></div>
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13446537-premeditated" target="_blank">Premeditated by Josin L. McQuein</a><br />
<b>Publication Date: </b>October 8, 2013<br />
<b>Publisher: </b>Delacorte BFYR<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
A week ago, Dinah’s cousin Claire cut her wrists.<br />
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Five days ago, Dinah found Claire’s diary and discovered why.<br />
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Three days ago, Dinah stopped crying and came up with a plan.<br />
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Two days ago, she ditched her piercings and bleached the black dye from her hair.<br />
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Yesterday, knee socks and uniform plaid became a predator’s camouflage.<br />
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Today, she’ll find the boy who broke Claire.<br />
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By tomorrow, he’ll wish he were dead.</blockquote>
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AH! This sounds like such a kick-ass thriller! I'm in the mood for an addicting, fierce read and this sounds like it would satisfy my craving. HURRY UP, OCTOBER.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY3jitH275Cfi3aFsCZa7G4X2u6q0YzcWmQw7h12UN64RIu9mO0PTiTWn7zF2aVGUdfElN2YaS09rhaM9f4JdCVHRcGham2af7pHiPAU0owa5Ccbv6p_g3WHUKHxg3XxKd3b0n5snnKNs/s1600/Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjY3jitH275Cfi3aFsCZa7G4X2u6q0YzcWmQw7h12UN64RIu9mO0PTiTWn7zF2aVGUdfElN2YaS09rhaM9f4JdCVHRcGham2af7pHiPAU0owa5Ccbv6p_g3WHUKHxg3XxKd3b0n5snnKNs/s1600/Signature.jpg" /></a><br />
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<br />Brianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04161712804034870637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-77930491665378827302013-08-08T20:49:00.000-07:002013-08-08T20:52:30.415-07:00Shadowlands (Shadowlands #1) by Kate Brian<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv6hSjQzdN2HI4QjdEpdw8xzlS_U6OjySZo-kM5qYQmyyWa5DV3fMa5Qo3kpV_TzlSIROdBYUvmBXJ0QSMOWDnk5EokdBR_BqnVcys_GB05d1fgSBh0KIXD7szTUXrws69XCH4YWNwo_4/s1600/Review.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv6hSjQzdN2HI4QjdEpdw8xzlS_U6OjySZo-kM5qYQmyyWa5DV3fMa5Qo3kpV_TzlSIROdBYUvmBXJ0QSMOWDnk5EokdBR_BqnVcys_GB05d1fgSBh0KIXD7szTUXrws69XCH4YWNwo_4/s400/Review.JPG" width="266" /></a><b>Publisher: </b>Hyperion<br />
<b>Release Date: </b>January 8, 2013<br />
<b>Source: </b>Bought (<a href="http://www.strandbooks.com/">The Strand</a>)<br />
<b>Edition: </b>Hardcover<br />
<b>Pages: </b>328<br />
<b>Rating: </b>C+<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Rory Miller had one chance to fight back and she took it. Rory survived and the serial killer who attacked her escaped. Now that the infamous Steven Nell is on the loose, Rory must enter the witness protection program. Entering the program alongside her, is her father and sister Darcy. The trio starts a new life and a new beginning leaving their friends and family behind without a goodbye.<br />
<br />Starting over in a new town with only each other is unimaginable for Rory and Darcy. They were inseparable as children but now they can barely stand each other. As the sisters settle in to Juniper Landing, a picturesque vacation island, it seems like their new home may be just the fresh start they need. They fall in with a group of beautiful, carefree teens and spend their days surfing, partying on the beach, and hiking into endless sunsets. Just as they’re starting to feel safe again, one of their new friends goes missing. Is it a coincidence? Or is the nightmare beginning all over again?
</blockquote>
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I've been lusting after this book ever since they released the cover and summary on <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/14805480-shadowlands?ac=1" target="_blank">Goodreads</a>. First of all, the cover is perfection. I'm not a graphic design expert in any way, shape, or form... but I can't imagine it being any more exquisite. Then there's the <i>summary</i>. Serial killers, a beach setting, the witness protection program... I was positive that this book would wow me. Unfortunately, that didn't happen.<br />
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Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed <i>Shadowlands</i> and thought it was such an addictive read, but I expected so much more from Kate Brian. There were quite a few times throughout <i>Shadowlands</i> when I thought to myself, "Something just feels off...", "This isn't making any sense.", or even "This story isn't that believable." The whole plot of <i>Shadowlands </i>had a ton of potential but I felt like there were clumsy pieces that could have been thought out better.<br />
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While <i>Shadowlands </i>is more of a plot-driven novel, I did enjoy Rory and the other characters (except Rory's sister, Darcy). Like the summary notes above, Rory and her sister Darcy fall in with a group of carefree teens that do nothing productive with their time. This was so much fun to read about considering it's basically an extended vacation with no limits for teenagers... who wouldn't love that?!<br />
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Overall, Kate Brian wrote a solid first book in a new series that will hopefully improve as it continues. Even though <i>Shadowlands</i> wasn't as amazing as I hoped, the end definitely left me wanting more and I'm really excited to see where the next book takes us.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhTPqSPO8PISfNfxX5JhIyYKK9iHnQY8RFdvb6KabL-9a0ruxuIhB_DNjlSqruH8EW7TzM0KFaBzdyXjdB9DleaPyXPPR-oMavZhLMLqXL4nwMAFqX2rfciHGmAv_ElmIrm7tLwiFTCtk/s1600/Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhTPqSPO8PISfNfxX5JhIyYKK9iHnQY8RFdvb6KabL-9a0ruxuIhB_DNjlSqruH8EW7TzM0KFaBzdyXjdB9DleaPyXPPR-oMavZhLMLqXL4nwMAFqX2rfciHGmAv_ElmIrm7tLwiFTCtk/s1600/Signature.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />Brianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04161712804034870637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-79819835010355497892013-07-31T16:29:00.001-07:002013-07-31T16:29:23.083-07:00Waiting on Wednesday (23)Waiting on Wednesday was started by Jill over at <a href="http://breakingthespine.blogspot.com/">Breaking the Spine</a>. It's a weekly feature that lets us share what titles we're waiting on!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmcPN12VSiyZR523aWnGQalzgFKep9-_JPo9S_AB4W3D95NPcAkYbEKqI37ALssDnSZY6dZkN0y3KIaRS7Zojp97xanRBkviRWFbxjVcZdQvJJj5JI9ThTNXutC9-P2TorjBCNiq71BVQ/s1600/waitingonwed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmcPN12VSiyZR523aWnGQalzgFKep9-_JPo9S_AB4W3D95NPcAkYbEKqI37ALssDnSZY6dZkN0y3KIaRS7Zojp97xanRBkviRWFbxjVcZdQvJJj5JI9ThTNXutC9-P2TorjBCNiq71BVQ/s400/waitingonwed.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/17786125-a-little-too-far">A Little Too Far by Lisa Desrochers</a><br />
Publication Date: September 17, 2013<br />
Publisher: Harper Collins<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Have you ever gone just a little too far?<br />
<br />Lexie Banks has.<br />
<br />Yep. She just had mind-blowing sex with her stepbrother. In her defense, she was on the rebound, and it’s more of a my-dad-happened-to-marry-a-woman-with-a-super-hot-son situation. But still, he’s been her best friend and confidant for the better part of the last few years … and is so off limits. It’s a good thing she’s leaving in two days for a year abroad in Rome.<br />
<br />But even thousands of miles away, Lexie can’t seem to escape trouble. Raised Catholic, she goes to confession in hopes of alleviating some of her guilt … and maybe not burning in hell. Instead, she stumbles out of the confessional and right into Alessandro Moretti, a young and very easy-on-the-eyes deacon … only eight months away from becoming a priest. Lexie and Alessandro grow closer, and when Alessandro’s signals start changing despite his vow of celibacy, she doesn’t know what to think. She’s torn between falling in love with the man she shouldn’t want and the man she can’t have. And she isn’t sure how she can live with herself either way.
</blockquote>
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This. Sounds. AMAZING. If you didn't already know, I'm a sucker for a good forbidden romance. Also, last year I had the amazing opportunity to travel to Italy. This will be my first time reading a book that's set in a foreign land that I've been to. I'm really looking forward to see what Desrochers does with this title.<br />
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What are <i>you</i> excited for this Wednesday?<br />
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<br />Brianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04161712804034870637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-7425361426056450832013-07-29T22:35:00.003-07:002013-07-29T22:35:49.960-07:00Anatomy of a Single Girl (Anatomy #2) by Daria Snadowsky<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Publisher: </b>Delacorte Books for Young Readers<br />
<b>Release Date: </b>January 8, 2013<br />
<b>Source: </b>Author<br />
<b>Edition: </b>Hardcover<br />
<b>Pages:</b> 227<br />
<b>Rating: </b>A-<br />
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(Spoiler alert for anyone that hasn't read <i>Anatomy of a Boyfriend</i>)<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
After everything that happened—my first boyfriend, my first time, my first breakup—jumping back into the dating game seemed like the least healthy thing I could do. It’s not that I didn't want to fall in love again, since that’s about the best feeling ever. But as a busy college premed still raw from heartbreak, which is the worst feeling ever, I figured I’d lie low for a while. Of course, as soon as I stopped looking for someone, an impossibly amazing—and devastatingly cute—guy came along, and I learned that having a new boyfriend is the quickest way to recover from losing your old one.<br />
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The moment we got together, all my preconceptions about romance and sex were turned upside down. I discovered physical and emotional firsts I never knew existed. I learned to let go of my past by living in the present. It was thrilling. It was hot. It was just what the doctor ordered.<br />
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But I couldn’t avoid my future forever.</blockquote>
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<i>This book</i>. This book is so <i>real</i>. I just had to state that before writing anything else because it's so true. Do you know how a lot of YA books feature an amazing love story that gives readers false hope about real relationships? Sure, sometimes that's just what we need! But <i>Anatomy of a Single Girl </i>sets the truth straight in the best way possible. This lovely book shows the readers that life and relationships aren't always perfect but can be great learning experiences.<br />
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After being in college a few years myself, I've definitely witnessed the types of "relationships" that Dom and Guy displayed. I'm not saying that a reader needs to experience a "friends with benefits" type of relationship, but relationships in general are important for finding out what type of person you want to be and what type of person you want to be with.<br />
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Overall, I really enjoyed <i>Anatomy of a Single Girl.</i> It was a super quick, amusing read that will keep you interested. The only thing I would change about this book is the length and depth. If it was a bit longer and had more depth, I think I would've connected (emotionally) more to Dom and the other characters. Other than that, I definitely recommend <i>Anatomy of a Single Girl</i> to anyone looking for a light read or someone in a situation similar to Dom's.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8HcORyHa3aJ6XW3_0md2fzAMhdEDNj6uRAbh4zXBNak5wQ0kW3dAcIAunwZmnOBSdmorp3krlVw3QM-g17UXkq_BICu5ZMTEWhyphenhyphenARmAG6RsRMMgwHsiNB72LewaKh0sZz5PExNbD3_3M/s1600/Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8HcORyHa3aJ6XW3_0md2fzAMhdEDNj6uRAbh4zXBNak5wQ0kW3dAcIAunwZmnOBSdmorp3krlVw3QM-g17UXkq_BICu5ZMTEWhyphenhyphenARmAG6RsRMMgwHsiNB72LewaKh0sZz5PExNbD3_3M/s1600/Signature.jpg" /></a>Brianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04161712804034870637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-71018455198913378992013-07-18T17:42:00.000-07:002013-07-18T17:42:07.174-07:00What Happened to Goodbye by Sarah Dessen<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpBDz_uaECxz85vbZ4ZYW7wgtTqidgwOVevglTC5-JZY6O4bBD-qd0xFnlZqhzIMF7-0kbwpTkANl7I12XS_VO1R_nMm9v_8qWHiWDvm6WfBp1nF2Dywf5Z4IuZLP5IOVIfaU6k7ll4sY/s1600/Review.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpBDz_uaECxz85vbZ4ZYW7wgtTqidgwOVevglTC5-JZY6O4bBD-qd0xFnlZqhzIMF7-0kbwpTkANl7I12XS_VO1R_nMm9v_8qWHiWDvm6WfBp1nF2Dywf5Z4IuZLP5IOVIfaU6k7ll4sY/s400/Review.JPG" width="263" /></a><b>Publisher:</b> Viking Juvenile<br />
<b>Release Date:</b> May, 2011<br />
<b>Source:</b> BEA<br />
<b>Edition:</b> Hardcover<br />
<b>Pages:</b> 402<br />
<b>Rating:</b> A<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Since her parents' bitter divorce, McLean and her dad, a restaurant consultant, have been on the move-four towns in two years. Estranged from her mother and her mother's new family, McLean has followed her dad in leaving the unhappy past behind. And each new place gives her a chance to try out a new persona: from cheerleader to drama diva. But now, for the first time, McLean discovers a desire to stay in one place and just be herself, whoever that is. Perhaps Dave, the guy next door, can help her find out.</blockquote>
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I don't think I've ever read a book I didn't enjoy by Sarah Dessen. This woman can literally write about staring at a wall and it would still be an interesting read. With that said, of course, I enjoyed every page of <i>What Happened to Goodbye.</i><br />
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<i>What Happened to Goodbye</i> is a character driven novel (just like many other of Dessen's) that comes with such a unique charm. Whenever I start reading one of her novels, I remember why I adore her so much. The writing is so simple and flows beautifully.<br />
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I loved how Mclean's world revolved around something as simple as a restaurant. It almost reminded me of Luke's Diner from Gilmore Girls, and come on. Who doesn't love Luke's Diner? Usually I crave some type of romance when I read YA, but there isn't a ton in Dessen's novels and I'm alright with that. She makes it captivating enough with other issues involving friendships and family.<br />
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<i>What Happened to Goodbye </i>is basically the perfect summer read for anyone that is craving something comfortable. It's not a very eventful novel but at the same time it's still entertaining and fun to read. If you've never read a novel by Sarah Dessen, I highly recommend you do so and while I adore all of her novels, <i>What Happened to Goodbye</i> is definitely in my top 3.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUUj6R2nyLok-RXSmp1GHEF7R8hcAKbMVSpZW0JL3gumA2w51Knbwr4F-wQEq6O0-FfySdWaQ_XUgHtUeyGyGsmoMS_nByzeR0Cf6_rieC8fXKRQ-59fkflQf1RV6ZfsYnRH24lsAHMhE/s1600/Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUUj6R2nyLok-RXSmp1GHEF7R8hcAKbMVSpZW0JL3gumA2w51Knbwr4F-wQEq6O0-FfySdWaQ_XUgHtUeyGyGsmoMS_nByzeR0Cf6_rieC8fXKRQ-59fkflQf1RV6ZfsYnRH24lsAHMhE/s1600/Signature.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />Brianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04161712804034870637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-89389514435415140692013-07-10T17:38:00.003-07:002013-07-10T17:38:57.635-07:00Spies and Prejudice by Talia Vance<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuNbfTFU-2tBE9hOrodQHBSb_TRczhyO6hgiPDeWq6l9Nk6jyPlZkbboAu34XasUOObKV022_Z_0B5QAbzCvZ8kL2r60Hds0oN10OQO_axiYoahX8pzNdLwNM3WsZ8vAyIVi9kkvGox90/s1600/Review.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuNbfTFU-2tBE9hOrodQHBSb_TRczhyO6hgiPDeWq6l9Nk6jyPlZkbboAu34XasUOObKV022_Z_0B5QAbzCvZ8kL2r60Hds0oN10OQO_axiYoahX8pzNdLwNM3WsZ8vAyIVi9kkvGox90/s400/Review.JPG" width="266" /></a><b>Publisher: </b>Egmont<br />
<b>Source: </b>Publicist<br />
<b>Edition: </b>ARC<br />
<b>Pages: </b>304<br />
<b>Rating: </b>A-<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Fields’ Rule #1: Don’t fall for the enemy.<br />
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Berry Fields is not looking for a boyfriend. She’s busy trailing cheaters and liars in her job as a private investigator, collecting evidence of the affairs she’s sure all men commit. And thanks to a pepper spray incident during an eighth grade game of spin the bottle, the guys at her school are not exactly lining up to date her, either.<br />
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So when arrogant—and gorgeous—Tanner Halston rolls into town and calls her “nothing amazing,” it’s no loss for Berry. She’ll forget him in no time. She’s more concerned with the questions surfacing about her mother’s death.<br />
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But why does Tanner seem to pop up everywhere in her investigation, always getting in her way? Is he trying to stop her from discovering the truth, or protecting her from an unknown threat? And why can’t Berry remember to hate him when he looks into her eyes?<br />
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With a playful nod to Jane Austen, Spies and Prejudice will captivate readers as love and espionage collide.</blockquote>
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Okay, so if I'm going to be honest here... I should tell you all that I've never read Pride and Prejudice (don't hate me!) I do own it... I've just never had to read it yet for college and I'm always more captivated by the lovely YA out there. But there's good news! You can still enjoy <i>Spies and Prejudice</i> without having any knowledge of Jane Austen's most popular novel.<br />
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On page 4 of reading <i>Spies and Prejudice</i>, I knew I was going to love it. It already stole my attention and wasn't planning on giving it back. Every few pages I was finding the most hilarious and clever quotes. Talia Vance either took a really long time to come up with some of the jokes and cleverness that's entwined in <i>Spies and Prejudice</i>, or she's just a natural comedian. Either way, I was giggling and smiling throughout most of the book.<br />
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The friendships and romances throughout the book were fun and imperfectly perfect. Mary Chris Moss ([GET IT?!] Berry's best friend) was probably my favorite character of the whole book and sincerely wish I knew someone like her. Tanner was sometimes predictable but still adorable to read about. The romance was perfectly balanced and wasn't over the top, which is a huge plus!<br />
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The only issue I had with <i>Spies and Prejudice</i> was the ending. Not even the whole ending! I was just easily distracted towards the end which usually means the book isn't catching my attention as much as I wish it would. It was dragging on and I had to force myself to keep reading. But I promise, this didn't last very long. Eventually I was flipping the pages at a steady pace and needing to know what was going to happen.<br />
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Overall, besides the dragging towards the end, I really enjoyed <i>Spies and Prejudice</i> and look forward to reading more of Talia Vance's work. I love when a book can make me laugh out loud and physically smile, and <i>Spies and Prejudice</i> did that.<br />
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<b style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil7ND0ahQ6RLijD92pr2TWVePdBtpH7AjYg5pdHuiiRov4xogtEEQCfcjTwMk9txkFkuc2TpLzBopiW28hNwrateMqSpPpeB9N27EsEwb2aZfbqlXtUiTeHdRpP0dQ99X2KR3iWLj5UIA/s1600/Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil7ND0ahQ6RLijD92pr2TWVePdBtpH7AjYg5pdHuiiRov4xogtEEQCfcjTwMk9txkFkuc2TpLzBopiW28hNwrateMqSpPpeB9N27EsEwb2aZfbqlXtUiTeHdRpP0dQ99X2KR3iWLj5UIA/s1600/Signature.jpg" /></a></b>Brianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04161712804034870637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-703268206476322492013-06-06T19:02:00.000-07:002013-06-06T19:02:11.113-07:00Obsidian (Lux #1) by Jennifer L. Armentrout<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMKvgpfTeNlnup-b_rWRVWtS4MX__odTduImdrX2nAHbiog5G9NiOsGPnZ4RUn64CQ9yJrzPIRDFwPooPmEOEOSmEm3vhsckboMfXep0p1MM4VUNv3xkItSAnP0vFtjCXs_YeT9wsohqM/s1600/Review.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMKvgpfTeNlnup-b_rWRVWtS4MX__odTduImdrX2nAHbiog5G9NiOsGPnZ4RUn64CQ9yJrzPIRDFwPooPmEOEOSmEm3vhsckboMfXep0p1MM4VUNv3xkItSAnP0vFtjCXs_YeT9wsohqM/s400/Review.JPG" width="257" /></a><b>Publisher: </b>Entangled Teen<br />
<b>Source: </b>Bought (Barnes and Noble)<br />
<b>Edition: </b>Paperback<br />
<b>Pages: </b>361<br />
<b>Rating: </b>B+<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Starting over sucks.<br />When we moved to West Virginia right before my senior year, I'd pretty much resigned myself to thick accents, dodgy internet access, and a whole lot of boring.... until I spotted my hot neighbor, with his looming height and eerie green eyes. Things were looking up.<br />
<br />And then he opened his mouth.<br />
<br />Daemon is infuriating. Arrogant. Stab-worthy. We do not get along. At all. But when a stranger attacks me and Daemon literally freezes time with a wave of his h<br />and, well, something...unexpected happens.<br />
<br />The hot alien living next door marks me.<br />
<br />You heard me. Alien. Turns out Daemon and his sister have a galaxy of enemies wanting to steal their abilities, and Daemon's touch has me lit up like the Vegas Strip. The only way I'm getting out of this alive is by sticking close to Daemon until my alien mojo fades.<br />
<br />If I don't kill him first, that is.
</blockquote>
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Yay! I've finally read one of the books that the blogosphere has been raving about. I can definitely understand the hype. I usually don't find a lot of time to read during my school year, but I found a way to make time for <i>Obsidian </i>this past semester.<br />
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First, I need to profess why I enjoyed reading <i>Obsidian</i>. What I loved the most about this book is the addicting quality that comes with it. I never wanted to put it down for several reasons, including: the spunky and relatable main character (Katy,) cute boy, fast paced plot, and mystery.<br />
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While I really enjoyed this book, there were a few things that it could've done without. Like mentioned above in the summary, Daemon is infuriating. Like... really infuriating. I understand why people think guys with a jerky personality can be attractive. I think it was laid on a bit heavy though. At times I was sighing out loud because I just needed him to leave his attitude at the door.<br />
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For reasons I can't remember (I read this book about a month ago, oops!) I kept comparing <i>Obsidian</i> to Twilight. I kept noticing a lot of unnecessary similarities that started to get on my nerves. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I can't be the only person that noticed this.<br />
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Lastly... there's something in the book that isn't a huge deal but I felt it needed to be mentioned in this review. Katy is a book blogger. Some may find this to be awesome and make her that much more relatable! However, some may feel it was a cheap way to capture the readers' attention. I'm sort of in the middle. It doesn't really matter to me either way because it isn't big part of the novel, but I still felt the need to address it and any issues that may come with it.<br />
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Overall, I would definitely recommend <i>Obsidian</i> to other readers. I really look forward to reading the rest of the series and seeing where Armentrout takes these characters.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxg75r7IM1X11XnDLBeb7UV3bh_WHDByGjPeWwypXUT1tdsgRE3IvPyPAagtxSD5xnGIYdhu4xXKLMUd_z3g2BKqEZoVyTEsU4fD3jQDYF7u4RNnVEEteT_QjvG3p7qvWmb2rGOvXWR-g/s1600/Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxg75r7IM1X11XnDLBeb7UV3bh_WHDByGjPeWwypXUT1tdsgRE3IvPyPAagtxSD5xnGIYdhu4xXKLMUd_z3g2BKqEZoVyTEsU4fD3jQDYF7u4RNnVEEteT_QjvG3p7qvWmb2rGOvXWR-g/s1600/Signature.jpg" /></a>Brianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04161712804034870637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-61132731574505184082013-05-22T18:29:00.001-07:002013-05-22T18:29:31.053-07:00Waiting on Wednesday (22)<span style="font-family: inherit;">Waiting on Wednesday was started by Jill over at <a href="http://breakingthespine.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">Breaking the Spine</a>. It's a weekly feature that lets us share what titles we're waiting on!</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwdQwvudYx57OpO6lF6NPdz0Abr9I6XJvTd9tZhlpHYPjkFNduPEM2JpW5oSJKx1ftPaHaUoaxBrNQv7erAmMGHnQeCjOdeYIFFLVjBlOqlUMPAQixD6dw5hsFybG4LEF4H1m7bZwtFAk/s1600/Review.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwdQwvudYx57OpO6lF6NPdz0Abr9I6XJvTd9tZhlpHYPjkFNduPEM2JpW5oSJKx1ftPaHaUoaxBrNQv7erAmMGHnQeCjOdeYIFFLVjBlOqlUMPAQixD6dw5hsFybG4LEF4H1m7bZwtFAk/s400/Review.JPG" width="258" /></a>Truly Madly Deadly by Hannah Jayne<br />
Publication Date: July 16th, 2013<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Sawyer Dodd has it all. She's a star track athlete, choir soloist, and A-student. And her boyfriend is the handsome all-star Kevin Anderson. But behind the medals, prom pictures, and perfect smiles, Sawyer finds herself trapped in a controlling, abusive relationship with Kevin. When he dies in a drunk-driving accident, Sawyer is secretly relieved. She's free. Until she opens her locker and finds a mysterious letter signed by "an admirer" and printed with two simple words: "You're welcome."
</blockquote>
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AH! Need this book more. First of all, love the title. It reminds me of that song by Savage Garden. The whole concept sounds like such a page turner. Basically, I'm dying to get my hands on this.<br />
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What are you waiting on this Wednesday? Share your answer in the comments or leave me a link to your blog so I can check it out!<br />
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<br />Brianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04161712804034870637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-68523979653329149012013-05-22T16:05:00.003-07:002013-05-22T16:05:23.450-07:00BloglovinHey everyone! Just wanted to jump on the bandwagon and make it easier for all of you to follow BAM Book Reviews once Google Reader ditches us. I've personally been using Feedly which I love but everyone has their preferences so if you plan on using Bloglovin, then click on the link below!<br />
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<a href="http://www.bloglovin.com/blog/2737848/?claim=ktzb4yqx59s">Follow my blog with Bloglovin</a><br />
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If you're not sure what reader to start using after Google Reader crashes, Parajunkee has a great post about some alternatives. You can check that out <a href="http://parajunkee.com/2013/03/alternatives-to-google-reader.html" target="_blank">here</a>!<br />
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<br />Brianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04161712804034870637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-22153468611977370312013-05-21T23:56:00.003-07:002013-05-22T17:06:28.208-07:00Top Ten Tuesday (1)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Happy Tuesday! Well, technically it's Wednesday, but I'm going with it! I finally decided to participate in the amazing <a href="http://brokeandbookish.blogspot.com/p/top-ten-tuesday-other-features.html" target="_blank">Top Ten Tuesday</a>. I look forward to these posts every week so I'm shocked it's my first time participating. Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by <a href="http://brokeandbookish.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">The Broke and the Bookish</a> and it's a weekly feature/meme that gives you the chance to share your top 10 (insert adjective here) books! </span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://bambookreviews.blogspot.com/2012/12/publisher-bloomsbury-source-free-book.html" target="_blank">Small Town Sinners by Melissa Walker</a>: <span style="line-height: 115%;">This
was the first book I've read by Melissa Walker and I've been stalking her books
on Goodreads for a while! Her covers are SO attractive. I'm a big fan of
photographed covers with a little extra added to them. While the covers are
what originally attracted me to Walker's books, she knows how to back them up
with a great read.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://bambookreviews.blogspot.com/2013/03/speechless-by-hannah-harrington.html" target="_blank">Speechless by Hannah Harrington</a>: Okay. I know what you might be thinking. This is one
of your favorite covers? There is no cover. That's why I love this so much.
With all of the different covers out there, you have to stand out somehow. I
think whoever thought of leaving the cover mostly blank was a genius. It
gave my eyes a break for once and let me focus on the actual story. Which
brings me to another reason why this landed in my top 10. When you read
the book, you might understand the symbolism behind the cover. Bottom line: I
love this cover or lack of.</span></li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://bambookreviews.blogspot.com/2012/07/insurgent-divergent-2-by-veronica-roth.html" target="_blank">Insurgent (Divergent #2) by Veronica Roth</a>: Don't get me wrong, I love the cover of Divergent. But the
cover of Insurgent?! While they're similar, I'm in love with the color scheme
of Insurgent's cover. It's so peaceful like Amity and just PRETTY. LOVE.</span></div>
</li>
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<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://bambookreviews.blogspot.com/2012/07/on-island-by-tracey-garvis-graves.html" target="_blank">On the Island by Tracey Garvis-Graves</a>: If you couldn't already tell
from the blog itself, blue is one of my favorite colors. So there's the
photographed cover which already makes this cover a front runner. Then in the
photograph there's an amazing beach with gorgeous blue water? Win.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://bambookreviews.blogspot.com/2012/07/forbidden-by-tabitha-suzuma.html" target="_blank">Forbidden by Tabitha Suzuma</a>: One of my favorite types of
books to read are ones with forbidden love stories in it. You know, the kind of
relationship that is either looked down upon, against the law, or just plain
WRONG. This cover executes the whole forbidden love theme very well and is one
of the main reasons why I decided to read it.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<a href="http://bambookreviews.blogspot.com/2010/07/salvaged.html" target="_blank">Salvaged by Stefne Miller</a>: Can someone please tell me
why so many people are disgusted by feet? I don't understand it. They're kind
of like hands... just on your legs. Anyway, this cover makes me want to just
lay in my back yard and read a good book. This cover screams "summer
read"!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/104379.That_Summer" target="_blank">That Summer by Sarah Dessen</a>: Even though this isn't my favorite Sarah Dessen novel, the new covers are AMAZING. They're just the makeover that these books needed to keep people reading them. First, the blending
of the pink and orange in "Sarah Dessen" is so perfect and pretty. I
love the simplicity of "That Summer" also. And pretty much any book
with a beach on it makes me want to read it, so that's sold.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/2241059.Identical" target="_blank">Identical by Ellen Hopkins</a>: Lets just say if I
didn't limit this list to only having one Ellen Hopkins book on it, her titles
would take up most of it. I think Ellen Hopkins is pretty well known for her
covers and how amazing they are. I just want to take a second to protest
against the <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7455433-crank" target="_blank">new covers</a> for the Crank series, by the way. Stick with the old
ones please!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/19057.I_am_the_Messenger" target="_blank">I am the Messenger by Markus Zusak</a>: <div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<o:p></o:p></div>
The only reason I picked up this book was because of it's cover. I
remember I was in a reading slump when I picked this up and wanted to read
something different. I felt like I was constantly reading the same old stuff and
I just needed a change. Admit it, this cover is unique. It's not the most
attractive of covers, but it's definitely one of my favorites.</span></li>
</ul>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKYeB9Lnqb2cYrhL_riH6tr8fGiiFKJCKwJswdVfrXTpaUHXZFWJQ6XWAHr3DrOZpDcjcYtu_H4OHa-EuBuAzfMS5PdMpfccMxdaGHXDYeTDS9RPFpm7Sjhl8wHbSa8wlmkeZhFkH2DpY/s1600/topten4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKYeB9Lnqb2cYrhL_riH6tr8fGiiFKJCKwJswdVfrXTpaUHXZFWJQ6XWAHr3DrOZpDcjcYtu_H4OHa-EuBuAzfMS5PdMpfccMxdaGHXDYeTDS9RPFpm7Sjhl8wHbSa8wlmkeZhFkH2DpY/s320/topten4.jpg" width="212" /></span></a></div>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://bambookreviews.blogspot.com/2009/03/twilight-review.html" target="_blank">Twilight by Stephenie Meyer</a>: You can hate on the book all you want, but you have to admit... the covers hit the spot. They're so PRETTY. A lot of you will probably disagree with me, but hey, besides word of mouth... something convinced people to read these books. And I'm pretty sure it was the cover. By the way, if you click on the link within the title, you can read my very first review! It's kind of embarrassing but you gotta start somewhere, right?!</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;">So what are the top 10 favorite covers of books that you've read? Let me know in the comments or share your link so I can come check out your post!</span></div>
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<br />Brianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04161712804034870637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-80593620440250655932013-03-17T21:48:00.000-07:002013-05-22T17:07:10.963-07:00Speechless by Hannah Harrington<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYINl8tfnuqsJRjl4oQYOUnioNW6NHhWYStSMkcWLXIIE3kRe6DO-BUuk1hACGaR0zFncrJ1tfaprnAOGujXnxRtuLq8xoZclh8HT08Vig0OTElOWdVBi2zwSZamC974kDpYbnVHID2Oc/s1600/Review.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYINl8tfnuqsJRjl4oQYOUnioNW6NHhWYStSMkcWLXIIE3kRe6DO-BUuk1hACGaR0zFncrJ1tfaprnAOGujXnxRtuLq8xoZclh8HT08Vig0OTElOWdVBi2zwSZamC974kDpYbnVHID2Oc/s400/Review.JPG" width="261" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Publisher: </b>Harlequin Teen</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Source: </b>BEA</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Edition: </b>Paperback (ARC)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Pages: </b>288</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Rating: </b>A</span><br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<em>Everyone knows that Chelsea Knot can't keep a secret</em><br />
<br />
Until now. Because the last secret she shared turned her into a social outcast—and nearly got someone killed.<br />
<br />
Now Chelsea has taken a vow of silence—to learn to keep her mouth shut, and to stop hurting anyone else. And if she thinks keeping secrets is hard, not speaking up when she's ignored, ridiculed and even attacked is worse.<br />
<br />
But there's strength in silence, and in the new friends who are, shockingly, coming her way—people she never noticed before; a boy she might even fall for. If only her new friends can forgive what she's done. If only she can forgive herself.<br />
<br /></blockquote>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: inherit; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: inherit; line-height: 19px;">I. Adored. This. Book. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #181818;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">There were actually quite a few reviews of this book that mentioned how they liked <i>Saving June</i>, Harrington's debut, a lot more then <i>Speechless. </i>I'm really happy that I read <i>Speechless</i> first because maybe I wouldn't have liked it as much as I did. Also, this means I have <i>Saving June</i> to look forward to reading!</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #181818;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #181818;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">While this may sound like an insult to some people, I think of it as a compliment: <i>Speechless</i> made me feel like I was watching a really good Lifetime movie. Almost like a moderately different but still similar version of <i>Speak</i> by Laurie Halse Anderson. And while there are similarities, the differences are large enough so I don't feel like I'm reading the same book.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #181818;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #181818;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">Two of the main characters, Sam and Asha, are some of the most lovable characters I've had the pleasure to meet. What I loved the most about Chelsea and Sam's relationship, is that it took time. Yeah, they connected and there might have been some instant chemistry, but it took time for the both of them to realize that. It was real and believable. Asha (Chelsea's new BFF,) is the sweetest girl ever. I hope I get to meet someone like her someday, because she's absolutely perfect. </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #181818;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #181818;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">Let's talk about the cover. I know there's a few different covers for <i>Speechless</i>, but I prefer the blank white one. It's definitely risky, because it's so blank. A lot of people (including myself) choose books by their cover. That's exactly what attracted me to this book though! The cover made me curious enough to figure out why it's so plain. I like how it fits the novel so well and I hope other readers can agree with that! </span></span><br />
<span style="color: #181818;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #181818;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">I've had a craving for contemp novels lately, and <i>Speechless </i>definitely helped while making me want more. Overall, I'm really pleased that I read this book and I would recommend it to anyone in the mood for a great contemp and fans of <i>Speak</i> by Laurie Halse Anderson.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #181818;"><span style="line-height: 19px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #181818;"><span style="line-height: 19px;">What do all of you think of the cover? I'm dying to know what everyone else thinks of it. Leave a comment below and let me know!</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyEAkAH4B2b6VsM6Fsrei3DbBuM6JKkfMT46zSMU0yjItAqZbZ6DEfwVgBdCbChQ4T4tX0TBx1dd8OwZKDltqIKwbym1jK3X33x0N2q5RwMIra-SPpcon4IEU5iV6P6FalX31Lsp1QFh8/s1600/Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyEAkAH4B2b6VsM6Fsrei3DbBuM6JKkfMT46zSMU0yjItAqZbZ6DEfwVgBdCbChQ4T4tX0TBx1dd8OwZKDltqIKwbym1jK3X33x0N2q5RwMIra-SPpcon4IEU5iV6P6FalX31Lsp1QFh8/s1600/Signature.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />Brianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04161712804034870637noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-49344497703958436822013-01-31T19:18:00.001-08:002013-01-31T19:23:13.333-08:00Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1333822506l/1217100.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1333822506l/1217100.jpg" width="265" /></a></div>
<b>Publisher: </b>Razorbill<br />
<b>Source: </b>Bought (Barnes and Noble)<br />
<b>Edition: </b>Paperback<br />
<b>Pages: </b>327<br />
<b>Rating: </b>B<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Clay Jensen returns home from school to find a mysterious box with his name on it lying on his porch. Inside he discovers cassette tapes recorded by Hannah Baker–his classmate and crush–who committed suicide two weeks earlier.<br />
<br />On tape, Hannah explains that there are thirteen reasons why she decided to end her life. Clay is one of them. If he listens, he'll find out how he made the list.</blockquote>
<br />
I have been wanting this book for YEARS. I wouldn't be surprised to say that I've wanted this book since 2007, when it was published! I always told myself that I would wait for it to release in paperback because I'm such a cheapskate. Let me tell you... that took forever! But now that this lovely, powerful novel is finally released in paperback, I let myself buy it and indulge.<br />
<br />
It took me at least 30-40 pages to really get into this book, but once I was at that point, there was no distracting me from devouring it. As you know from the synopsis of <i>Thirteen Reasons Why</i>, listed above, Hannah Baker gets the chance to tell her full story and the reasons why she committed suicide. The first few reasons seemed a bit minor and fixable... until the other reasons were unveiled. This girl just could not catch a break. I couldn't imagine going through everything Hannah did and remaining sane. As the novel went on, her reasons got much worse to the point where I couldn't even guess how much worse they could even get... but they always did.<br />
<br />
However strange this may sound, I typically prefer reading novels with a female's POV. It's rare that I come across a novel I really enjoy with a male narrator although there have been cases: <i>Harry Potter </i>by J.K. Rowling,<i> I Am the Messenger</i> by Markus Zusak. And now, I can gladly add <i>Thirteen Reasons Why</i> to that small list. Even though a lot of the novel is narrated by Hannah from the tapes, I always enjoyed reading about Clay and what he was thinking. He was an absolute sweetheart that was really easy to sympathize with and I hope to read more novels with narrators similar to him.<br />
<br />
While I really did enjoy this book, I think the hype it continually gets made it fall short in the slightest way. I was expecting to cry my eyes out during the whole novel which didn't happen, and I cry pretty easily! Even though the hype may have made this book fall a bit short for me, I still really enjoyed it and would recommend it to anyone looking for something gripping and haunting to read.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyEAkAH4B2b6VsM6Fsrei3DbBuM6JKkfMT46zSMU0yjItAqZbZ6DEfwVgBdCbChQ4T4tX0TBx1dd8OwZKDltqIKwbym1jK3X33x0N2q5RwMIra-SPpcon4IEU5iV6P6FalX31Lsp1QFh8/s1600/Signature.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyEAkAH4B2b6VsM6Fsrei3DbBuM6JKkfMT46zSMU0yjItAqZbZ6DEfwVgBdCbChQ4T4tX0TBx1dd8OwZKDltqIKwbym1jK3X33x0N2q5RwMIra-SPpcon4IEU5iV6P6FalX31Lsp1QFh8/s1600/Signature.jpg" /></a><br />
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<br />Brianahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04161712804034870637noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-76589936470294886762013-01-22T13:13:00.002-08:002013-01-31T19:33:50.911-08:00The Selection by Kiera Cass<a href="http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1322103400l/10507293.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://d.gr-assets.com/books/1322103400l/10507293.jpg" width="263" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;"><strong>Publisher:</strong> HarperTeen</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Source:</b> Books A Million</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Edition: </b>Hardback</span><br />
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Pages:</b> 327</span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>Rating:</b> B-</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;">For thirty-five girls, the Selection is the chance of a lifetime. The
opportunity to escape the life laid out for them since birth. To be swept up in
a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels. To live in a palace and
compete for the heart of gorgeous Prince Maxon. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">
But for America Singer, being Selected is a nightmare. It means turning her
back on her secret love with Aspen, who is a caste below her. Leaving her home
to enter a fierce competition for a crown she doesn't want. Living in a palace
that is constantly threatened by violent rebel attacks. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Then America meets Prince Maxon. Gradually, she starts to question all the
plans she's made for herself—and realizes that the life she's always dreamed of
may not compare to a future she never imagined. </span></div>
</blockquote>
<div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span id="internal-source-marker_0.8485493051800785" style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline;">The Selection is definitely not what I expected it to be. At all.<br class="kix-line-break" /><br class="kix-line-break" />But I liked it! I think.<br class="kix-line-break" /><br class="kix-line-break" />The whole idea of the book is that there is a Caste system. Everyone is numbered One to Eight. The lower your number, the higher your caste, and the better life you live. Generally Fives to Eights live the hardest, shortest, and poorest lives in the entire society. Ones are the royal family.<br class="kix-line-break" /><br class="kix-line-break" />The royal family?! Yes. The royal family. The entire book is set in the future, but this future has gone medieval. A monarchy is in charge of the country and everyone is on their knees just begging to join them in their reign.<br class="kix-line-break" /><br class="kix-line-break" />Everyone except for one girl.<br class="kix-line-break" /><br class="kix-line-break" />America Singer is the young protagonist of this novel. She is a Five and loves that she gets to sing and play music to bring money to her family. She is a typical teenager who wants to help her family, find her passion, and fall in love.<br class="kix-line-break" /><br class="kix-line-break" />The Selection (the title of the novel) happens when the Prince of the royal family comes of age. Every eligible, single woman between the ages of sixteen and twenty is entered in a contest. Thirty-five of thousands are chosen to go to the castle and compete for the Prince’s affections. It’s sort of like The Bachelor!</span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline;">America is chosen for the Selection and is shockingly dismayed. All she wants to do is stay with her love, Aspen Leger, a Six. But her mother wants the money and status that comes with marrying a higher number.<br class="kix-line-break" /><br class="kix-line-break" />Maxon Schreave, the Prince, is nothing like America imagines him to be. He’s just the typical guy. Except for the entire country is watching his every move as he learns to date and interact with women for the first time. A little stressful, no?<br class="kix-line-break" /><br class="kix-line-break" />I don’t want to give away any more details! All in all, it really is like The Bachelor, but there are a few more twists and turns!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; text-decoration: initial; vertical-align: baseline;"><br class="kix-line-break" />I would recommend reading it if you’re interested in a non-dystopian YA novel. Tell me what you think about it! I honestly still haven’t decided if I like America or not (she seems a little whiney to me), but I am anxious to see how the next this plays out!<br />
</span></span><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IDw3io5Yzuc/T8VcObqrH2I/AAAAAAAAACk/1JWxqai8Wv4/s1600/Katie+Signature.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IDw3io5Yzuc/T8VcObqrH2I/AAAAAAAAACk/1JWxqai8Wv4/s1600/Katie+Signature.PNG" /></span></a><br />
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Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-358704232672041504.post-82166662052369882702013-01-18T20:15:00.001-08:002013-01-31T19:29:17.946-08:00What My Mother Doesn't Know by Sonya Sones<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqwhg1WfMEaRt8_3oxnEzO9nUyHz43pe8nsoPyqfHuw-Wbrd8kNQzbnoXjgSx3YFETHboageAH9em_DQBmzH7pZkpGv9gyDnFUvEwIWdF6F-noF26lbrqdHCbKL4EuGM83L-rS9V-uoOs/s1600/Review.jpg.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqwhg1WfMEaRt8_3oxnEzO9nUyHz43pe8nsoPyqfHuw-Wbrd8kNQzbnoXjgSx3YFETHboageAH9em_DQBmzH7pZkpGv9gyDnFUvEwIWdF6F-noF26lbrqdHCbKL4EuGM83L-rS9V-uoOs/s400/Review.jpg.JPG" width="283" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Publisher: </b>Simon and Schuster</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Source: </b>Bought (@ my local indie)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Edition: </b>Paperback</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Pages: </b>261</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Rating: </b>C+</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My name is Sophie.<br />This book is about me.<br />It tells<br />the heart-stoppingly riveting story <br />of my first love.<br />And also of my second.<br />And, okay, my third love, too.<br /><br />It's not that I'm boy crazy.<br />It's just that even though<br />I'm almost fifteen<br />it's like<br />my mind<br />and my body<br />and my heart<br />just don't seem to be able to agree<br />on anything.</span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; line-height: 19px;">WMMDK (What My Mother Doesn't Know) was pretty cute! I think it was meant for the younger, YA crowd (15 and under) but that doesn't mean it's not enjoyable for anyone older. I read the entire novel in one sitting which wasn't a big deal since it's written in verse. Even though the book is around 300 pages, it feels like maybe 100 or less due to the format.</span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 19px;">While WMMDK was entertaining enough to keep me reading, I can't say that the story will stick with me forever. It's more of a light and fluffy read that can be used to kill some time and take your mind off anything serious. </span></span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 19px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The main character, Sophie, did make me giggle out loud a few times from her outrageous thoughts. I do wish that I would have connected a bit more with her though! She was a little immature for a 15 year old. If I didn't know her age, I would have guessed she was around 11 or 12 years old. </span></span><br />
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<span style="line-height: 19px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So basically... give this book a shot if you need to kill some time and are looking for something slightly entertaining.</span></span><br />
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