My Catchphrases

Thursday 30 September 2010

Thursday Tunes: Book Theme Songs #2

Although I did a Fallen Angel Play-list last week. This song just jumped out at me as a theme song for Crescendo.

Synopsis:

Nora should know better than to think her life can return to normal after falling in love with a fallen angel. And Nora's life isn't normal - her dad was murdered, and the facts about his death just don't add up. Now Nora's own life is in imminent danger. Are she and Patch strong enough for the battle ahead?





Not only should you listen to the lyrics but this was made by The Patch Productions - see why I had to use this video.

Wednesday 29 September 2010

Review: Crescendo by Becca Fitzpatrick

Synopsis: From Amazon

Nora should know better than to think her life can return to normal after falling in love with a fallen angel. And Nora's life isn't normal - her dad was murdered, and the facts about his death just don't add up. Now Nora's own life is in imminent danger. Are she and Patch strong enough for the battle ahead?




Review:
I actually enjoyed this book more than Hush, Hush although I liked the first book I wasn't overly animated by the characters. In Crescendo however, the insight into the characters personalities and interactions took the plot to another level. All the characters had strong personalities and were well rounded.

As I have come to expect from Hush, Hush there is a great deal of innuendo and double entendre used. I did giggle to myself at this and can complete relate it to the age group portrayed in the story.

Becca Fitzpatrick's writing is richly descriptive and dramatic making the imagery easy to conjure within the imagination. The tension woven into the narrative was nail biting from the beginning.

Tantalising plot teasers, along with a few red herrings, are placed throughout, really keeping the reader guessing as to which direction the storyline will take.

I really liked how Nora was portrayed as a 'normal' 16 year old girl coping with her first 'proper' relationship. The see-saw of emotions, along with the emotional immaturity most 16 year old have (although I am sure they will disagree). Sometimes Nora's reactions to situations were extreme; emphasizing her emotional immaturity. The reader is able to empathize to a certain degree, most importantly the reader is left with the thought that Nora's reactions are in a way her own way, attempts to try to make situations better, although this is not necessarily what occurs.

Different aspects of the plot are shown in varying ways, the use of flashbacks and recaps providing a deeper understanding. Giving focus to aspects that may have otherwise been overlooked. One of these aspect that stood out for me; was the way in which different religions were portrayed to show how their belief systems parallel.

There are some shocking twists; one of which explained why there are some people you instinctively take a dislike to - this I found very interesting.

Crescendo really is the right title for this book; I could almost hear the cymbals crashing together as the full extent of the plot was revealed. There was a jaw-dropping cliffhanger of an ending. Although I had issues with the genealogy and blood lines depicted within the plot; I was able to ignore them due to Patch's of the charts sizzle factor *swoon*.

On the whole a great sequel that hooks the reader to the series.

Tuesday 28 September 2010

Trailer Tuesday: Fallen Angel Love Continued

My love of all things angels continues. Jenny from Wondrous Reads is the Vampire Girls, Carla from The Crooked Shelf is the Wolf Girl maybe I can be Emma from Asamum Booktopia the Angel Girl *grins*



I have read Crescendo and am chomping to get my hands on Halo. Someone really needs to feed my angel love : D

Sunday 26 September 2010

In MY Mailbox #20

Hosted by the wonderful Story Siren weekly to show the appreciation of the books we receive.



From the lovely Jesse at Books for Teens for the library




From Caroline at Portrait of a Woman for the library.
Caroline even wrote little post-it notes for each book giving an outline of the story and the age range it best suits. Thank you so much Caroline. Baked goods being cooked today : D


I have to say that the generosity of my fellow bloggers overwhelms me. Thank you so much for your kind donations to the library. If anyone else would like to donate books I am able to refund the postage. Thank you all again - huge hugs for you.




I will tell you I have already read this one. I just could not put it down. My review will hopefully be up this week. I desperately want the next 2 books but Lacey is only published in the US making the cost of the book slightly higher than usual. I have been debating with myself since finishing the book Friday night to see if I could justify buying it for myself. Unfortunately, I cant at the moment as every penny has to be accounted for - someone give J a job so I can have these books LOL

Once again I would like to thank you all for your generosity with the book donations. It makes me proud to be part of such a wonderful community and I have the warm and fuzzies because of it. YOU GUYS ROCK.


Thursday 23 September 2010

Thursday Tunes: Fallen Angel Playlist

I sense a theme  this week : D

Check out Becca Fitzpatrick's Play-lists:



Crescendo Play-list

My Choices : D

Fallen Angels - Aerosmith

Feel Good Inc - Gorillaz

For My Demons - Katatonia

As always I love getting other peoples music recommendations, please feel free to leave me music links in the comment box *PLEASE*

Wednesday 22 September 2010

Review: Torment by Lauren Kate

Synopsis: From Amazon

In "Torment", fallen angel Daniel and his mortal love Lucinda think they are safe but evil forces are massing against them. As Luce learns more about her past, and discovers that the lives she's already lived hold the key to her future happiness; she starts to wonder if Daniel has told her the whole truth. What if his version of events isn't the way things happened? What if that means that she's really meant to be with someone else?



Review:
If you have read my review of Fallen you will know what an absolute fan-girl I am. I will be honest with you from the start; not only did this sequel life up to my very high expectations, it surpassed them. Be prepared for gushing.

The story starts shortly after the battle at Sword and Cross along with the start of the truce between the forces of good and evil. We are gradually introduced to other elements outside of the main factions of good and evil, all of which are dependent on Luce. It is definitely necessary to read this series in order to get the full benefit of the nuances of the plot.

The most amazing plot teasers are placed throughout the narrative, making me shoot through the pages to find if my assumptions were correct. The plot had me hooked like a drug addict needs their next fix, I needed to carry on reading to get my 'fix' of the plot.

I found the character development astounding, it really blew me away. Especially that of Luce; from following what she is told, she develops independence and curiosity to challenge the information she is given (or not as the case may be). Although Luce feels love for Daniel she does question how she can feel such intense emotion when she doesn't really know Daniel. She feels she is unable to follow on faith alone. She is emotionally stronger than she is given credit for. Her 'talents' are revealed slowly, taking even Luce by surprise at the things she can do.

The introduction of her new classmates at Shoreline gives an opportunity for the reader to compare and contrast their personalities and appearance to the characters we already have in place. I actually really liked the introduction of Miles as an alternative love interest for Luce. His temperament is so completely different to Daniels that as a reader you question who would be the better choice for Luce. However, I had the nagging feeling at the back of my mind that there are more to Miles and Shelby than has been revealed so far.

At the beginning of Torment, Daniel came across as a bit controlling. He is in the position of possessing the knowledge of Luce's previous incarnations, making him fully aware of all the possible dangers/consequences. He is unable to share this knowledge with Luce, yet he expects her to trust him based solely on the depth of the emotion they share. Daniel's character is revealed slowly, like peeling the layers of an onion. I was profoundly sadden at the thought of his having other girlfriends. Although I am not convinced this notion has come from a reliable source. However the seed of doubt has now been planted. As the story progresses we are able to discern the full extent of Daniel's devotion to Luce, it took my breath away.

The imagery and descriptions were realistic and relatable, making the story completely believable. I was wishing I could go to school at Shoreline. The contrasts between Shoreline/Sword and Cross was startling in the imagination. So well described you could build a three dimensional picture of both.

The reworking of bible stories was ingenious. I really liked how the reworking showed that nothing is black and white, there are shades of grey; IE there are always two sides to every story. You cant have good without evil, there has to be a balance, a yin and yang scenario sprang to mind.

The ending was action packed and dramatic leaving me yearning for the next installment. This is one story that can literally be taken in any direction, and I for one cant wait to see where it is heading.

I did warn you that gushing would be involved but I hope I have made concise points with my gushing thrown in. I loved Fallen and have increased my love of this series with Torment. Thank you UK Book Tours for giving me the chance to read it. One word  AWESOME.

If you have reviewed this book as part of UK Book Tours please leave the link to your review here:

Tuesday 21 September 2010

Trailer Tuesday: Fallen Angel Love

I have had a binge on Fallen Angel stories lately. How my heart surges at the thought of these celestial beings living amongst us. Those battling the forces of evil; others siding with the Morning Star. I adore them all.







Have these made you swoon too???

Sunday 19 September 2010

In My Mailbox #19

Hosted weekly by The Story Siren - who you should know by know is awesome : D


You should all know I love this series and I am finding it very difficult to drag my self away from this book. I am tormenting myself that it is the last in the series



The Tesco BOGOF won again. However, when I got to the checkout the discount didnt come off. I took the books to the customer service desk only to be told that Finding Sky wasn't on offer even though it had a sticker on it. Imagine my dismay. Yet, customer service won through on this occasion and due to the inconvenience and their mistake I was refunded and given the books. Tesco I commend your customer service and thank you for the books.





Gorgeous swag from a lovely blogger friend. I am not sure she wants to be named, but thank you Kirsty : D


OK so this didnt exactly come through my mailbox more like my inbox but I want to show it off.
Thank you so much to Sya at The Mountains of Instead for designing this bookmark for me. Isn't it gorgeous. Sya you are very talented.

Saturday 18 September 2010

Saturday Spotlight: Guardian of the Gate Winner!!!!!

Synopsis: From Amazon
Sixteen-year-old Lia Milthorpe must journey to the uncharted isle of Altus to continue her search for the missing pages of the Book of Chaos - the pages that could tell her how to end the prophecy that has turned generations of sisters against each other. But the journey will test more than just her courage, it will also test her loyalty to her beloved boyfriend, James. Meanwhile, twin sister Alice will stop at nothing to reclaim Lia's role as the Gate. And that's not the only thing she wants from her sister: there's also Lia's true love. The outcome of their battle could have consequences of Biblical proportions and, in the end, only one sister will be left standing.


THANK YOU FOR ENTRYING.

THE WINNER IS:

No: 20 SOPHIE So Little Time for Books
As picked by Random.org

Email on its way to you Sophie : D

Yes I know I am a day late but the big girl had a tea party yesterday and it was a bit nuts so I didnt get chance to do it :P


Before the hoards descended


Supposed to be watching a movie - they gave up after 30 mins and did a dance competition

Friday 17 September 2010

Review: The Dead Tossed Waves by Carrie Ryan

Synopsis: From Amazon
Carrie Ryan's sensational new novel reveals more of the secrets of the world after the return of the Unconsecrated and introduces a new heroine who must tangle with her mother's secrets. Gabry lives a quiet life, secure in her town next to the sea and behind the Barrier. She's content to let her friends dream of the Dark City up the coast while she watches from the top of her lighthouse. Home is all she's ever known and, and all she needs for happiness. But life after the Return is never safe and there are threats even the Barrier can't hold back. Gabry's mother thought she left her secrets behind in the Forest of Hands and Teeth, but, like the dead in their world, secrets don't stay buried. And now, Gabry's world is crumbling. One night beyond the Barrier . . . One boy Gabry's known forever and one veiled in mystery . . . One reckless moment, and half of Gabry's generation is dead, the other half imprisoned. Now Gabry knows only one thing: if she has any hope of a future, she must face the forest of her mother's past.

Review:
I actually read this months ago and just haven't got around to writing the review *am dreadful*. I managed to pick up a copy shortly after finishing The Forest of Hands and Teeth in the library. I walked in for a browse, was just about to leave with nothing when I turned to find the book staring at me from a display stand. How excited was I. I never expected the library to have it the week it was published, you can imagine my excitement and seeing the library stamp go on that shiny new page *bliss*.

This time the book is written from the perspective of Gabry. Gabry is roughly the same age as Mary was in TFHT but a completely different personality altogether. She doesn't crave freedom from the barriers that surround the village in order to keep the 'mudo' out. Comparatively, she views them as a symbol of security, something which she embraces fully. All she wants from life is to feel safe. As the book progressed we discover the relationship between Gabry and Mary; I found myself comparing them finding they both had very selfish/self-centred traits, not thinking how their actions would affect others. I tried to put myself in their position to imagine how I would act, I wasn't successful.

She regards the other teenagers in her village with incredulity, finding their need to put themselves in danger in order to have fun as idiotic. She feels that they take their safety for granted. Of course, she is proved right.

Images of the movie I Am Legend kept running through my head with the comparison in the plot.

The storyline is dramatic, even shocking in parts; tying together the first book with the sequel seamlessly. There is no getting away from the fact that you have to read this series in order or you wont understand the intricacies of the plot. The descriptions are dynamic and sensory; I had the feeling I could feel/smell/touch/taste/hear all of the action (not necessarily a good thing when talking about zombies, lol). I was totally immersed in the narrative. At times my body would go rigid with the tension emanating from the pages. The tension was palpable making my heart race, I even held my breath in parts. My stomach literally flipped at the 'soulers' ceremony.

There are ingenious parallels within the narrative. The idea that nowhere is safe and maybe they should return to the forest (its the ocean every-time for me). Also the parallel imagery conjured by the description of Mary and Gabry in the waves compared to the photograph of Mary's Grandmother and Mother was inspired.

I particularly liked the philosophical debate between Elias and Gabry with regard to the soul and life after death. Including the retention of our memories and feelings. What happens to our memories when we die? \Do we carry them with us onto another life/ Do they no longer exist/ Or do they live on through others? The interpretation we can gain from this debate in relation to the 'mudo' is that the body is a vessel, upon death the soul leaves the body. the soul being the essence of who we are. Therefore, the 'mudo' are just empty (very scary, flesh eating) vessels that once contained a soul.

The inclusion of Shakespeare sonnets was brilliant, the death imagery was open to interpretation depending on the situation. Genius.

Overall a fantastic adrenaline filled book. I have to admit that at the time of reading this it had not been announced that there was to be a third book. Immediately upon finishing the book, I emailed Carrie Ryan asking if there was to be a third book. It was a compulsive need to have resolution of all aspects of the plot. I will be honest and I am a big fan of happy ending. Is there a chance that we could get a happy ending in a zombie apocalypse???

Thursday 16 September 2010

Thursday Tunes: Zombie Play-list

 
Thanks to Sya at The Mountains of Instead for letting me throw this into her zombie week.
 
You can check out my zombie playlist at The Mountains of Instead

Please feel free to make suggestions in the comment box. Picking zombie music has been so much fun. Seriously you should try it.

Check the lovely Pewter Wolf's selections here. He has awesome taste in music.

Wednesday 15 September 2010

Review: The Forest of Hands and Teeth by Carrie Ryan

Synopsis: From Amazon
In Mary's world there are simple truths. The Sisterhood always knows best. The Guardians will protect and serve. The Unconsecrated will never relent. And you must always mind the fence that surrounds the village; the fence that protects the village from the Forest of Hands and Teeth. But, slowly, Mary's truths are failing her. She's learning things she never wanted to know about the Sisterhood and its secrets, and the Guardians and their power, and about the Unconsecrated and their relentlessness. When the fence is breached and her world is thrown into chaos, she must choose between her village and her future - between the one she loves and the one who loves her. And she must face the truth about the Forest of Hands and Teeth. Could there be life outside a world surrounded in so much death?

Review:
In complete contrast to The Beautiful Dead this book contains zombies that are truly terrifying. The ones that are only interested in eating you alive, the fresher the 'meat' the better. Chilling to the bone.  I was slightly concerned about reading this, knowing my dislike of gore and vivid imagination, the threat of nightmares imminent. Although the book does contain shudder worthy imagery and some heart pounding moments, it doesn't just contain that element within the narrative. What I found was a pleasant *maybe not the correct choice of word for a zombie book* surprise.

Written in first person narrative from Mary's perspective. A young woman who has grown up in a tiny village in the middle of a large Forest filled with zombies. Isolated from the rest of the world, raised to follow the rules of The Sisterhood without question. This has been the way of the village for generations. However, Mary has been told tales passed down through the family of how the world used to be before the infection took place. These tales make her questions their way of life and ponder the possibility of other villages beyond the forest. She is especially drawn to the thought of the ocean. In my mind I equated the ocean as symbolism for freedom.

The descriptions and imagery within the narrative are extremely vivid and detailed. The movie I had playing within my imagination had to be toned down to accommodate my dislike of gore.

The plot starts at the point where Mary losses both her parents at different times to the infection. The story deals with her relationship with her brother, which implodes upon her mothers death. I can totally relate to this. Due to my own experiences I found this aspect very upsetting, no way did I expect to be shedding tears when reading about zombies. I found Mary's treatment at the hands of her brother and the 2 male romantic interests, Travis and Harry completely appalling. I just could not understand why they would behave in such a manner when they were supposed to care about her.

I found the descriptions and actions of The Sisterhood very scary. I their own way they were just as frightening as the zombies. They ran the village as a dictatorship, allowing no freedom of thought or action. I could understand in part that this was mainly for the protection of the villagers; but it was taken to extremes with the Sisterhood justifying atrocious acts under the guise of protection. They appeared intoxicated with the power they held over the villagers. The snippets of the history behind the village really whetted my appetite to find out more about the causes of the infection and whether anything could be done to stop it.

The narrative was filled with heart pounding agitation. Adrenaline pumping tension seemed to jump right out of the pages. I had to force myself to put the book down in order to go to sleep. My stomach literally turned with panic at one point (no spoilers).

I had the feeling after getting to know Mary via the narrative, that she was one of these people that would never be truly happy. She would always be searching for something. For her the search for happiness would be as elusive as finding the end of a rainbow. By the end of the book I came to the conclusion that I just did not like Mary. I found her shallow and self-centred. I was left pondering as to how many people she was willing to sacrifice in order to achieve her own goals.

This book for me was a *pleasant* surprise as regards to the plot, not just terrifying zombies but relationships, family and the quest for happiness all woven together into a compelling page turning read.

Tuesday 14 September 2010

Trailer Tuesday: Zombie Fun








I just had to include the next trailer for its lol value.




I found some really cool zombie books under the MG/Ya bracket on Amazon. Not being one for gore these appeal to me on another level. FUN : D I think I am going to have to do a zombie list of MG/Ya books for the library - do you think a zombie theme month would go down well???

Monday 13 September 2010

MG Monday: Review: Beautiful Dead: Summer by Eden Maguire

Synopsis: From Amazon
Six months have passed sine the last Ellerton teenager died, but Darina is still traumatized by the stabbing of her own beloved Phoenix. But there’s work to be done as Darina must now turn her attention to the shooting of Summer Madison – the beautiful and gifted, singer-song-writer with a heart of gold.
It’s been nearly a year since the random shooting in a shopping mall caused Summer’s meaningless death. Summer left behind recordings of her wonderful songs and a deep sadness amongst high school friends. Now Darina must act as Summer’s agent to track down the psychotic killer in a clear search for justice.
With the sound of Summer’s music constantly playing inside Darina’s head, recalling the wonderful months when she was alive and performing her first gigs, Darina, Phoenix and the Beautiful Dead are determined to catch the crazed killer. And all the while Darina’s love for Phoenix continues to beat ...

Review:
This is the closest I could get to a Middle Grade book about Zombies. I dont really think of them as zombies as such more the undead with a purpose to fulfill. Plus it includes some seriously hot boys = win + win.

I love this series and on edge waiting for the last installment. I want it but I dont want the series to end.

In Summer we catch up with Darina 4 months after helping Arizona remember what happened when she died and achieve justice for that wrong.

The wait to see Phoenix has really taken its toll on her. She is overcome with grief for her best friend and boyfriend. The strain of not being able to confide in anyone is taking its toll on her both physically and emotionally. Darina questions her sanity, unable to move on with her life because of the promise she has made to help the Beautiful Dead, gaining her more time with Phoenix. Physically she looks more dead than they do.

I have a feeling that Darina herself is somehow connected to all of the Beautiful Dead deaths, the catalyst or lynch pin??? the mystery and suspense really had me whisking through the pages as fast as my eyes could read the print.

There are little recaps of the first 2 books placed throughout the narrative, great for refreshing the memory but it is still necessary to read the books to fully understand the intricacies of the plot. The characters develop and evolve with each book. It never gets boring or predictable. I have lots of thoughts on the plot and am desperate to have them confirmed or denied in the final installment. I wont give anything away by telling you the questions I have. I found with this book as I was thinking the questions the answers were given, making me very happy.

There is a shocking, completely unexpected plot twist that had me sobbing like the big girl I am. Further elements of the supernatural are added into the plot giving another dimension in which to develop the storyline.

I am completely in love with this series. The idea of Purgatory gets taken to a whole new dimension with this series. Zombies to relate to - genius.

Sunday 12 September 2010

In My Mailbox #18

Well I have had a super crazy week, but it is all good.

In My Mailbox is hosted weekly by The Story Siren. So I can show you the lovely things that come through my mailbox (I also get bills but they aren't lovely). Then I can scamper off and turn green with jealous at everyone else's mailboxes : D




From my book buddy Clover : D




Won from Book Babblers : D






So what do you think of my mailbox this week : D

While I was wandering the charity shops I also picked up some things for the library.


Just a reminder that I will be doing some zombie book reviews this week to run alongside my friend Sya's Zombie Week running at her blog The Mountains of Instead. So dont forget to check both here and there for some awesome zombie action : D


Saturday 11 September 2010

Saturday Spotlight: Guardian of the Gate Giveaway


Don't forget today is the last day to enter the Guardian of the Gate giveaway.
Just click the link, fill out the form and away we go.
The winner will be announced on Saturday  18th September.
Thank you & Good Luck

Friday 10 September 2010

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

Synopsis: From Goodreads
The undead can really screw up your senior year . . .

Marrying a vampire definitely doesn't fit into Jessica Packwood's senior year "get-a-life" plan. But then a bizarre (and incredibly hot) new exchange student named Lucius Vladescu shows up, claiming that Jessica is a Romanian vampire princess by birth—and he's her long-lost fiancé. Armed with newfound confidence and a copy of Growing Up Undead: A Teen Vampire's Guide to Dating, Health, and Emotions, Jessica makes a dramatic transition from average American teenager to glam European vampire princess.
But when a devious cheerleader sets her sights on Lucius, Jess finds herself fighting to win back her wayward prince, stop a global vampire war—and save Lucius's soul from eternal destruction

Review:
From  the title you can pretty much guess  this is going to be in first person narrative from the point of view of Jessica (yes I know I am stating the obvious). Jessica is what I would classify as utterly 'normal' a 'typical' American, shy teenager - that is until Luke enters her life.

As I was reading I kept picturing Luke as a teenage Angel from Buffy - the whole vampire with a soul angle gets me every time *swoon*


I did find it a little difficult to believe that Jessica's parents were able to conceal her true genetic history from her. Although Jessica did make it easy for them by wanting to completely block out any memories of her childhood.

There is an additional element within the story of nature versus nurture. Showing the differences in upbringing between Jessica and Luke, the repercussions in the way they view the world and interact with others was very noticeable. The portrayal of Luke's Uncles treatment of him was brutal.

The narrative is interspersed with letters from Luke to his Uncle; enabling the reader to see the story from his point of view. I adored his dual role as a Romanian Vampire Prince and an American Basketball star. This dual nature really shone through in  the letters. Inspiring quite a few lol moments.

The relationship between Luke and Jessica builds slowly; both of them aiding the other on a journey of self discovery. Circumstances and other people keep getting in their way which in turn affects their progress. I loved the character development throughout the story. There is an ingenious subplot woven into the narrative which isn't completely revealed until near the end. All the threads come together to a really explosive ending.

The imagery was very realistic although unfavourable to vegetarian food, lol. There were a few gory scenes, (I dont like gore *shudders*) but I was able to repress the imagery *sniggers*.

I really enjoyed this book, getting to know the characters and see their interactions was brilliant. Plus how could I not love the caring, hot, male vampire. Perfect piece of escapism.

Wednesday 8 September 2010

Review: Angel by LA Weatherly

Synopsis: From Amazon
In a world where angels are beyond redemption, Alex thinks he's found one that might deserve mercy. Alex is a ruthless assassin - of angels. Forget everything you've heard about them before. Angels are not benign celestial creatures, but fierce stalkers whose irresistible force allows them to feed off humans, draining them of their vitality until there is barely anything left. As far as Alex is concerned, the only good angel is a dead angel...until he meets Willow. She may look like a normal teenager but Willow is no ordinary girl. Half-angel, half-human, Willow may hold the key to defeating the evil angels. But as the hunter and the hunted embark on an epic and dangerous journey and Willow learns the dark and terrifying secrets of her past, Alex finds himself drawn to Willow...with devastating consequences. Eoin Colfer reinvented the fairy, Stephenie Meyer reinvented the vampire, L.A. Weatherly reinvents the angel! This is a heart-pounding, knuckle-whitening, paranormal romance action-adventure for fans of the 'Twilight' series. This is the first in a devastating new trilogy.

Review:

Surprise - I am not actually reviewing here today, instead I am guest reviewing at the wonderful Chicklish.

So head on over there to read my review of this amazing book taking the angel ideology out of the box and giving it a jolly good shake.

Enjoy

Tuesday 7 September 2010

Trailer Tuesday: Angel by LA Weatherly


This is my book trailer of the week. The book is awesome - review to come : D




Check out the official website for this book - it has so really amazing stuff on it. With fabulous reviews from people who actually speak to me on twitter ;)

Monday 6 September 2010

Changes to Monster Monday



My girlies have decided that as much as they like reading books they do not want to review them with me - I was  told that doing a review for me was like having homework :( It wouldn't be if I didnt have to nag them!!!! Well they are young and do enjoy reading so I shouldn't complain too much :(

So instead I am going to bribe the MG/Teens in the school library to do guest reviews for me. I am taking in a whole pile of books to entice them with.

Therefore, instead of Monster Monday - Mondays will now be Middle Grade Mondays - cool yes???


So please keep posted for reviews.
We will gladly accept books for review and the library.

I am sure my girls will do the occasional post as they love getting the comments, it makes them feel special : D

Sunday 5 September 2010

In My Mailbox #17

Thanks to Kristi at The Story Siren for holding this meme every week. Which most definitely feeds my book addiction.
The Story Siren 

Another unbelievable week. Thank you so much to all the people I swap books with and the lovely blogger friends I have made that send me books, you guys rock my world *hugs you all*

From the library (I now have a stack of library books on my nightstand)



From my bestest book swapping buddy - Clover you are awesome : D



From the very gorgeous Caroline at Portrait of a Woman for me and the big girlie (guess who ran off with them). They will then be going in the school library *happy dances*



Caroline also sent this gorgeous card. Isn't it lovely. There was also a really cute key-chain but the big girl ran off with that too : D





Fabulous Pre-orders from Amazon that I had completely forgotten about, lol

The Haunted by Jessica Verday - much anticipated sequel to The Hollow review here
Skulduggery Pleasant: Mortal Coil by Derek Landy (for those who know me you are aware of my love of this series) Review here



From UK Book Tours - click blog button to link to site : D


Amazing Right?????!!!!!!

Off  to see what eveyone else got (adding to my wishlist and getting extremely jealous is on the cards I think)

Saturday 4 September 2010

Saturday Spotlight: Blogger Interview: Lyndsey From Heaven, Hell & Purgatory

Photobucket

Welcome Lyndsey and thanks for letting me interrogate *cough* interview you.

Just for the record please tell us a little about yourself.

Hey everyone! I’m Lyndsey, 24 and soon to be an English student at Nottingham Trent University. I have been putting off going to University since I was 18 because I didn’t want to waste loans on doing something that I wouldn’t love forever or that wouldn’t be useful. Now I know what I want to do and have a passion for books, I decided on English with Linguistics. Even though I’m terrified of starting classes, I’m also really excited to learn so many new things.

Asamum: I am sure you will be fantastic.

How did you start blogging?

I started off writing reviews for consumer sites (I still do) and made some great friends on there who have their own blogs (Rhiana Reads… and Chick Lit Reviews). After constantly finding books that I loved on their blogs and reading their reviews, I talked myself into making one of my own. Rhiana, Leah and Chloe all helped me a lot in starting my blog and gave me some great advice to get me started. I am so glad that I took the chance to give my voice its own site and now I wouldn’t be without it.

How did you pick the name for your blog?

My blog name actually came from my rating system. I had the idea of putting book reviews into the categories of Heaven, Hell and Purgatory before designing my blog so I thought it was only natural that it be named the same. I was planning on only reviewing YA paranormal and fantasy books at the time and I thought the name was fitting considering they are full of angels, demons, vampires and faeries etc. I realise now that it is a bit edgier than some blog names I have come across but I like that it stands out.

How do you feel about the blogging community as a whole?

Everyone has been so welcoming and helpful since I started blogging three months ago and I can’t say thank you enough for that. I have made some amazing friends from looking at other blogs and chatting on Twitter and have been amazed by how friendly everyone is. Not only are other bloggers so friendly but also authors and publishers. I’m still a little shocked sometimes when I have conversations with some of my favourite authors but they make my experience of blogging so much more enjoyable.

Have you always been interested in reading? What got you seriously started?

God no! When I was a teenager I could think of nothing worse that sitting alone with a book. I had a lot of free time when living in Canada and my friend Zoya lent me some of her historical romance books to keep me occupied and I ended up reading at least 3 a week for a long time. I brought my new found love of reading back home with me which really surprised my family, knowing how much I hated reading before. They still make little jokes about it now but I don’t mind that so much.

My love of reading has gone on and off over the years but this time I think it is here to stay.

How would you encourage others to read if you were in my position within a school library?

Pick up a book that you like the look of and read the first chapter. If you don’t like it then try something else. There are so many books out there and everyone will like different things so the main thing is to find a style that you like. Reading the first chapter or even the first couple of pages of a book should be enough to let you know if it is for you or not. Yes, it could take a while to find what you are interested in but there really is something for everyone out there.

Favourite Genre?

A year ago, I would have been a die hard romance fan but I have discovered a new love.

My best friend, Ryan, who lives in Scotland bought me Knife by R. J. Anderson for my birthday last year and I was amazed by this whole other world in books that I didn’t know existed. Apart from the Twilight Saga, this was the first YA book I had ever read and after finishing it, I was determined to see what else was available. I have been hooked ever since.


For someone so young you have done quite a lot with your life. Tell us a little of your travels and living in another country? How did you decide on Canada?

I first went to Canada for a month (the whole of July) when I quit a job I hated and broke up with a boyfriend I had been with for nearly 5 years. A friend I met online and had known for years offered for me to stay at his place for free to save me some money and I couldn’t turn that down. I was going to see him in September anyway so I thought why not. We had been great friends over the years and it didn’t take long for us to realise that we liked each other.

I went back for a week in the September and when I came back home, I realised that there was so much of Canada I had yet to see and wanted to go back as soon as possible. In November I got a young persons working holiday visa and booked flights for the next March. John was thrilled that I wanted to come back for so long and was adamant that I was coming to live with him, although that wasn’t my original plan. I didn’t want to put him out and was going to find my own place but he wasn’t having any of it.

Running away to Canada the first time was one of the best things I ever did because it opened up my eyes to what else there was to experience in the world. My year working in Toronto and living with John was amazing and I wouldn’t change a day of it. I met so many different people and life long friends that I will never forget. If I could, I would go back there in a heartbeat because I miss it a lot some days.

But not the cold though????

Does the library system differ much from ours, etc?

The library in Toronto that I joined was one of the best I have ever been to. This library was huge and seemed to have rows and rows of every kind of book possible. I really used to love my weekly trips to the library because I spend hours there. I was allowed to take out 10 books at a time so you can imagine how long it took me to pick which ones I wanted. Thankfully, they had a massive romance section so I was always spoiled for choice. The library where I live now is terrible and hardly ever has anything that I want so I gave up going.

The images are actually of the Toronto Public Library, kinda puts our little libraries to shame dont you think???

You are very organised – do you have any organisational tips?

Buy an organiser and make to do lists. I would get absolutely no where without both of these things and would probably end up sitting in the middle of my room crying in a heap! For the past year I have had two jobs with very few days off so I had to make the most of the time I had. To do lists gave me clear goals for each day that I felt were manageable and this way, I wasn’t stressing out about everything I had to get done.

Hmmm I have an organiser and make to do lists, yet I feel like sitting in a heap most days, lol 


Is there someone you really admire and why?

I wouldn’t say that there is one person but probably authors in general. I would love to be able to write stories but I am useless at it. I had to write a short story for my last course at college and my attempt was pathetic. I’m really not all that creative when it comes to creating my own ideas so I think all authors are amazing for being able to do that.

What would you ask yourself in an interview?

God that’s a hard one!! Probably Which literary character do you think you are most like and why?

And the answer would be......

I would have to say that out of all the books I have read, I’m most like Claire Danvers from The Morganville Vampires series. Even though I’m no way near as intelligent as she is, I am very focused on my studies and I get annoyed when things get in the way of that. Good thing I don’t live in a town full of vampires!


Claire is also really brave and not afraid to say how she feels. I think this is where I am most like Claire because I have done some crazy things in the past and I never listen to what other people think when I do them. I don’t take any rubbish from guys, especially if they try to tell what I can and can’t do. Claire really came out of her shell over the space of the series so far and I can relate to her because of this. I used to be really shy when I was a teenager but not anymore!

Do you have any tips or advice you would like to share?

If you are new to blogging or thinking about starting one, don’t be afraid to voice your own opinions. Your personal opinion and input is what will make your blog unique and you should never be afraid to do exactly what you want.

Is there anything else you would like to add......

Thanks Emma for having me on your blog! I really enjoyed this interview (my first) and the great questions. : D


Thanks Lyndsey it has been a pleasure.
Lyndsey has also been kind enough to put  together some guest posts for me so keep a look out for them.
 
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