Guest Mini-Review: Fever by Dee Shulman

Image from Goodreads

Title: Fever

Series: Fever #1

Author: Dee Shulman

Publisher: Puffin

Publication Date: 5 April 2012

Source: Review Copy

Rating: 3/5

Synopsis from Goodreads

A fearless Roman gladiator. A reckless 21st century girl. A mysterious virus unites them . . .

152 AD. Sethos Leontis, a skilled and mesmerising fighter, is unexpectedly wounded and lies dangerously close to death.

2012 AD. Eva is brilliant - but troubled. Starting her new life at a school for the gifted, a single moment in the lab has terrifying results.

An extraordinary link brings Sethos and Eva together, but it could force them apart - because the fever that grips them cannot be cured and falling in love could be lethal . . . Can love survive when worlds collide and threaten time itself?

REVIEW BY MADISON

In 152AD a Roman gladiator fights to survive; in 2012 a teenage girl lives in a boarding school called St Magdalene's. A fever infects the gladiator, Seth, enabling him to discover a brand new world. Meanwhile, in 2012, Eva finds out extraordinary lab results that could endanger her too. Somehow, the 2 of them are brought together by a mysterious force. They have to unite in order to understand the mystery that surrounds them.

I really liked how the two different times and places were portrayed, the author does a really great job of showing what life was like both then and now. I also enjoyed how the two main characters had common ground even though they were from such completely different places.

I did find that the end for me felt a bit rushed and cut off, as if there should have been more to it, the story was at a really good point but then it just cut off. Nevertheless I really enjoyed this book, it was captivating.

Tantalizing Trailers: Black Heart Blue by Louisa Reed

Title: Black Heart Blue

Author: Louisa Reed

Publisher: Puffin

Publication Date: 10 May 2012

Synopsis from Goodreads

Hephzibah: You've no idea what it's like having a freak for a sister. 

Rebecca: Born first, prettier, Hephzi's always been the popular one.

The Father: When he was busy with his bottle we were usually safe. Usually. 

The Mother: Her specialist subject was misery and lessons of painful silence ...

Hepzibah and Rebecca are twins. One beautiful, one disfigured. Trapped with their loveless parents, they dream of a normal life. But when one twin tragically dies, the other must find a way to escape. Because if she doesn't, she'll end up like her sister.

I just know Madison is going to love this book.

The Debut Drool List - April 2012

Here are my picks for the Debut Drool List this month. So many drool worthy UK Débuts *swoon*

Title: Starters

Series: Starters #1

Author: Lissa Price

Publisher: Doubleday Childrens

Publication Date: 5 April 2012

Synopsis from Goodreads

HER WORLD IS CHANGED FOREVER 

Callie lost her parents when the Spore Wars wiped out everyone between the ages of twenty and sixty. She and her little brother, Tyler, go on the run, living as squatters with their friend Michael and fighting off renegades who would kill them for a cookie. Callie's only hope is Prime Destinations, a disturbing place in Beverly Hills run by a mysterious figure known as the Old Man.

He hires teens to rent their bodies to Enders—seniors who want to be young again. Callie, desperate for the money that will keep her, Tyler, and Michael alive, agrees to be a donor. But the neurochip they place in Callie's head malfunctions and she wakes up in the life of her renter, living in her mansion, driving her cars, and going out with a senator's grandson. It feels almost like a fairy tale, until Callie discovers that her renter intends to do more than party—and that Prime Destinations' plans are more evil than Callie could ever have imagined. . . .

Title: When You Were Mine

Author: Rebecca Serle

Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Books

Publication Date: 26 April 2012

Synopsis from Goodreads

In this intensely romantic, modern recounting of the greatest love story ever told, Romeo’s original intended—Juliet’s cousin Rosaline—tells her side of the tale. What’s in a name, Shakespeare? I’ll tell you: Everything. Rosaline knows that she and Rob are destined to be together. Rose has been waiting for years for Rob to kiss her—and when he finally does, it’s perfect. But then Juliet moves back to town. Juliet, who used to be Rose’s best friend. Juliet, who now inexplicably hates her. Juliet, who is gorgeous, vindictive, and a little bit crazy...and who has set her sights on Rob. He doesn’t even stand a chance. Rose is devastated over losing Rob to Juliet. This is not how the story was supposed to go. And when rumors start swirling about Juliet’s instability, her neediness, and her threats of suicide, Rose starts to fear not only for Rob’s heart, but also for his life. Because Shakespeare may have gotten the story wrong, but we all still know how it ends…

I was very lucky to read this one - it is absolutely amazing. Wait til you see my review [ ; D ] 

Title: The Alchemy of Forever

Series: Incarnation #1

Author: Avery Williams

Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Books

Publication Date: 26 April 2012

Synopsis from Goodreads

Seraphina has been alive since the 1300's, made immortal when the boy she was beginning to love back then, Cyrus, saved her from death with a strange liquid - a method of alchemy that lets them swap bodies with any human being. But now, in modern day America, Sera has decided that she can no longer bear the weight of stealing people's lives so she can keep living on. So she decides to run away from Cyrus and end her stolen existence once and for all. Her plan goes awry when she accidentally takes the body of a dying teenager and feels forced to take over her life. When the lines between Sera and Kailey's identity begin to blur, Sera finds a reason to desire to live once more. But she can't shake the guilt of having taken Kailey's life, even if she was dying. And what if Cyrus finds her?

Read my review HERE

Title: Immortal City

Series: Immortal City #1

Author: Scott Speer

Publication Date: 5 April 2012

Synopsis from Goodreads

Jackson Godspeed is the hottest young Angel in a city filled with them. He's days away from becoming a full Guardian, and people around the world are already competing for the chance to be watched over by him. Everyone's obsessed with the Angels and the lucky people they protect - everyone except for Madison Montgomery.

Maddy's the one girl in Angel City who doesn't breathlessly follow the Angels on TV and gossip blogs. When she meets Jackson, she doesn't recognize him. But Jackson is instantly captivated by her, and against all odds the two fall in love.

Maddy is swiftly caught up in Jackson's scene, a world of glamour, paparazzi - and murder. A serial killer is on the loose, leaving dead Angels' wings for the police to find on the Walk of Fame. Even the Guardians are powerless to protect themselves in the face of this threat … and this time it's up to Maddy to save Jackson.

Swoon Swoon Swoon - I want badly

Title: The Intern

Author: Dillon Khan

Publisher: Puffin

Publication Date: 5 April 2012

Synopsis from Goodreads

When Jay Merchant lands an internship for the best job in music television, he is given a backstage pass to the biggest gig of his life. The velvet rope to the biggest VIP parties and hottest celebrities has been lifted and now he's got to capture it on camera. But with only six months to turn his intern dream into a real job, does he have what it takes? It's time to face the music...

Check out Dillon's Song of the Month HERE

Title: Crave

Series: The Clann #1

Author: Melissa Darnell

Publisher: Mira Ink

Publication Date: 6 April 2012

Synopsis from Goodreads

Savannah Colbert has never known why she's so hated by the kids of the Clann. Nor can she deny her instinct to get close to Clann golden boy Tristan Coleman. Especially when she recovers from a strange illness and the attraction becomes nearly irresistible. It's as if he's a magnet, pulling her gaze, her thoughts, even her dreams. Her family has warned her to have nothing to do with him, or any members of the Clann. But when Tristan is suddenly everywhere she goes, Savannah fears she's destined to fail.

For years, Tristan has been forbidden to even speak to Savannah Colbert. Then Savannah disappears from school for a week and comes back…different, and suddenly he can't stay away. Boys seem intoxicated just from looking at her. His own family becomes stricter than ever. And Tristan has to fight his own urge to protect her, to be near her no matter the consequences….

Check out the Tantalizing Trailer HERE

What are you drooling over this month?

Musical Moments: Song Of The Month: Chosen by Dillon Khan

Who better to pick the Song of the Month than an author whose book is based in the music industry. Over to Dillon:

Internships never land in your lap. They are the result of trying again and again. You have to knock on several doors and wait for one to open. No matter how hard you try sometimes a door just won't open and you can go one of two ways. Feel down and extremely sorry for yourself or listen to Aaliyah. Its what Jay, the main character of The Intern does when he comes unstuck at work. The beautiful songstress reminds us that "if at first you don't succeed, dust yourself of and try again". Not only is this song a classic and one of her biggest hits, its also magically timeless. If you need more tips and advice, check out www.theintern.co.uk for some inspiring words from business leaders on "How To Make It".

Check out the amazing Chapter Playlist HERE

Title: The Intern

Author: Dillon Khan

Publisher: Puffin

Publication Date: 5 April 2012

Synopsis from Goodreads

When Jay Merchant lands an internship for the best job in music television, he is given a backstage pass to the biggest gig of his life. The velvet rope to the biggest VIP parties and hottest celebrities has been lifted and now he's got to capture it on camera. But with only six months to turn his intern dream into a real job, does he have what it takes? It's time to face the music...

Tantalizing Trailers: Born Wicked by Jessica Spotswood

Title: Born Wicked

Series: The Cahill Witch Chronicles #1

Author: Jessica Spotswood

Publisher: Puffin

Publication Date: Jan 2013 (UK)

Synopsis from Goodreads

"Blessed with a gift..."cursed" with a secret." 

Everybody knows Cate Cahill and her sisters are eccentric. Too pretty, too reclusive, and far too educated for their own good. But the truth is even worse: they're witches. And if their secret is discovered by the priests of the Brotherhood, it would mean an asylum, a prison ship - or an early grave. 

Before her mother died, Cate promised to protect her sisters. But with only six months left to choose between marriage and the Sisterhood, she might not be able to keep her word . . . especially after she finds her mother's diary, uncovering a secret that could spell her family's destruction. Desperate to find alternatives to their fate, Cate starts scouring banned books and questioning rebellious new friends, all while juggling tea parties, shocking marriage proposals, and a forbidden romance with the completely unsuitable Finn Belastra. 

If what her mother wrote is true, the Cahill girls aren't safe. Not from the Brotherhood, the Sisterhood - not even from each other.

I am drooling over this one so so so much. I do not know why we have to wait so long for it.

You know you want it as much as I do.

Review: The Catastrophic History of You and Me by Jess Rothenberg

Title: The Catastrophic History of You and Me

Author: Jess Rothenberg

Publisher: Puffin

Publication Date: 2 Feb 2012

Challenge: DAB

Source: Review Copy 

Rating: 3.5/5

Synopsis from Goodreads

Brie's life ends at sixteen: Her boyfriend tells her he doesn't love her, and the news breaks her heart - "literally." But now that she's in heaven, Brie is about to discover that love is way more complicated than she ever imagined. Back in Half Moon Bay, her family has begun to unravel. Her best friend knows a secret about Jacob, the boy she loved and lost - and the truth behind his shattering betrayal. And then there's Patrick, Brie's mysterious new guide and resident Lost Soul who's been D&G (dead and gone) much longer than she? and who just might hold the key to her forever after. With Patrick's help, Brie will have to pass through the five stages of grief before she's ready to move on? but how do you begin again, when your heart is still in pieces?

REVIEW

There are 3 things I would like to mention before I get to the main review is that:

1) The synopsis is slightly inaccurate. To say how would spoil the plot. In my mind I pictured this book as a beautiful love story, you know the type love surviving death etc. but it really isn't the main part of the plot.

2) This for me was a book of 2 halves.The first half I found rather slow and Brie irritating on many levels however, the second half of the book changed pace really bringing the story to life.

3) The music reference and use of song lyrics is fantastic. The playlist is HERE and I urge you to go check it out.

The story is told from the perspective of Brie (which induced a cringe worthy number of cheese references within the narrative) at 15 her narrative voice is sometimes at odds with her actions. Veering between immature and rather bratty to a maturity I would rather a 15 year old not possess (if you know what I mean). The way in which she handles her first relationship while being relatable on a few levels e.g. the not eating, sleeping part while being completely scary and stalker-ish in other aspects. If she were my daughter I think I would be having a serious word with her about getting too serious too young.

The whole idea of a heart literally breaking was a case of poetic licence I felt. Although the idea was supported by additional events and justified at the conclusion.

The use of the five stages of grief  within the narrative itself added a depth of emotion to the entire story; not only are these stages for Brie to navigate but also the people left behind. Sections of the book are divided into these stages adding to the overall effect on the emotions. The portrayal of grief, the memorial service especially, was heart wrenching and very realistic. The way in which people deal with grief in different ways and how it can put a strain on relationships was also highlighted poignantly.

The portrayal of the afterlife in this book was very unique and not altogether pleasant. The inclusion of soul-mates is something I adore and this is what really stood out within the book for me. I loved the second part of the book so much more than the first. Brie's character development and journey of self-discovery made her far more like-able. The emotional journey was heart wrenching and heart warming in equal measure.

This book is not at all what I was expecting. If you are looking for something different in respect of death and bereavement with a measure of afterlife and soul-mates. Then you should definitely try this one.

Review: Cinder by Marissa Meyer

 Title: Cinder

Series: The Lunar Chronicles

Author: Marissa Meyer

Publisher: Puffin

Publication Date: 5 Jan 2012

Source: Reviewed for We Love This Book

 Challenge: DAB

Synopsis from Goodreads

Humans and androids crowd the raucous streets of New Beijing. A deadly plague ravages the population. From space, a ruthless lunar people watch, waiting to make their move. No one knows that Earth’s fate hinges on one girl. . . .

Cinder, a gifted mechanic, is a cyborg. She’s a second-class citizen with a mysterious past, reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister’s illness. But when her life becomes intertwined with the handsome Prince Kai’s, she suddenly finds herself at the center of an intergalactic struggle, and a forbidden attraction. Caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal, she must uncover secrets about her past in order to protect her world’s future.

REVIEW

Although I adore the retelling of fairy-tales I entered reading of this book with some trepidation, thinking it would be more science fiction than fairytale. This book defies classification, although the words steampunk fairy-tale do keep popping into my head, I have to say it is completely genius. The steampunk-esque detailing on the pages added to the overall steampunk feeling. I am hooked and cannot wait for the rest of the stories to be released.

The 3rd person narrative used within the book is a necessary tool in order to keep the many threads of the story under tight control. Not only do you have Cinders story you have her history, the history of Earth and the Moon and the underlying parallels to the original fairy-tale alongside Prince Kai’s story. I was constantly making comparisons of the characters with the original tale to work out who was who. I am still not certain but I think I can see shades of other tales being woven in with the characterisations. Some comparisons came as a surprise and the way in which the characters developed was not predictable in the slightest.

The world building was amazingly easy to imagine, a futuristic robotic dystopian steampunk fairy-tale. So easy to picture with the wonderfully descriptive writing. The images of the disease and how it was handled brought to mind the SARS outbreak a few years ago and the television coverage at that time; even the updated version of Ringa Ringa Roses aided the overall atmosphere. The Asian based imagery and names worked perfectly for this story.

The plot is so detailed and in depth it really does take you away with it and cannot be summed up without giving away too much. Characterisations and interactions were constantly taking me by surprise. Cinder is a fabulous character and details surrounding her unravel as the story develops. I adored the ‘sidekick’ little android (whose name I cannot remember) the girlie way in which the robot put on lipstick and jewelry and squeed over dresses and boys added such a delightful touch of humour to the story.

Although the world is now run by councils from the different continents working together the atmosphere of tension between them and Lunar is quite palpable through the narrative. Prejudice still exists and manifests towards cyborgs more than anyone else apart from Lunar’s. I honestly couldn't fathom why there was a problem with cyborgs. I would love to be wired into the net, be able to tell when someone is lying by have a little orange light blink in the corner of my vision, throw in a little bit of super-powers and away to go. So why the problem with cyborgs. This is one of the questions I would like an answer to in the future.

The whole fairy-tale romance ideal kept playing through my mind, and I have to say I was super imposing the Disney version onto Cinder and Kai. I adored their interactions. I really really really want to tell you more and am now sitting on my hands to stop myself.

I am just blown away that this is a debut. Believe me it is absolutely fantastic. I cannot wait for more. Someone please tell me I don't have to wait long.

Watch the Trailer HERE

Read a short story prequel HERE

Tantalising Trailers: Wereworld: Shadow of the Hawk by Curtis Jobling

Title: Shadow of the Hawk

Series: Wereworld

Author: Curtis Jobling

Publisher: Puffin

Publication Date: 5 Jan 2012

Synopsis from Goodreads

DREW FERRAN, THE RIGHTFUL KING OF WESTLAND, IS TRAPPED. 

Enslaved by the Goatlord Kesslar, young werewolf Drew finds himself on the volcanic isle of Scoria, forced to fight in the arena for the Lizardlords. With the help of an unlikely ally, he must find a way to break free - but who has ever managed to escape?

Meanwhile, Hector the Wereboar flees the forces of the Catlords. Now on board the pirate ship Maelstrom, the enemy's net is closing in. Haunted by the spirits of the dead, Hector is soon left wondering who the true enemy is . . .

I loved the first book in the series (review HERE)   

Tantalising Trailers: Crossed by Ally Condie

You know I am WELSH right so I had to, simply had to put this trailer on. 

Title: Crossed

Series: Matched

Author: Ally Condie

Publisher: Puffin

Publication Date: 24 Nov 2011

Synopsis from Goodreads

In search of a future that may not exist and faced with the decision of who to share it with, Cassia journeys to the Outer Provinces in pursuit of Ky - taken by the Society to his certain death - only to find that he has escaped, leaving a series of clues in his wake.

Cassia's quest leads her to question much of what she holds dear, even as she finds glimmers of a different life across the border. But as Cassia nears resolve and certainty about her future with Ky, an invitation for rebellion, an unexpected betrayal, and a surprise visit from Xander - who may hold the key to the uprising and, still, to Cassia's heart - change the game once again. Nothing is as expected on the edge of Society, where crosses and double crosses make the path more twisted than ever.

Loved Matched so much Review HERE I have had the sequel on pre-order forever!!!!

I just adore the use of the Dylan Thomas poem.

Review: 9th Grade Slays by Heather Brewer

Title: Ninth Grade Slays

Series: The Chronicles of Vladimir Todd #2

Author: Heather Brewer
Publisher: Puffin Books
Publication Date: 22 Jan 2009

Synopsis: From GoodReads

If middle school stunk for Vladimir Tod, high school is a real drain. Besides being a punching bag for bullies, he’s still stalled with dream girl Meredith, and he’s being tailed by a photographer from the school newspaper. Needless to say, practicing his vampire skills hasn’t exactly been a priority for Vlad — until now. A monumental trip to Siberia with Uncle Otis is Vlad’s crash course in Vampire 101. Training alongside the most gifted vampires is exactly what Vlad needs to sharpen those mind-control skills he’s been avoiding. And he’d better get it right, because the battle brewing back home with the slayer who’s been stalking him could be Vlad’s last.

Review: May contain spoilers for book #1

Following almost directly on from 8th Grade Bites, Heather Brewer manages to recap the events of Book one succinctly within the narrative without making it feel repetitive, bringing necessary details to the forefront in order to progress both the plot and the characterisation. It was so nice to see that it isn't only Vlad that progresses.

Vlad is developing his vampire powers from our last meeting. I cannot believe that this book does not gross me out, for I am of the squeamish variety. The image of Vlad with his mug of warm blood or glass of spiced blood and a cookie was instead comforting rather than gross. Weird, yes I know, but I think that it is due to the fact that Vlad is so 'normal'. Although I am still unable to reconcile the image of Vlad being bullied with that of him as a vampire. The two images just do not go together in my head.

Vlad's relationships are few, the pain still fresh from the loss of his parents brought tears to my eyes. although at the back of my mind I am left wondering if they are still alive but in hiding.

The portrayal of the bond between Vlad and Henry was heart-warming easing Vlad's fears that Henry is only with him because of Drudge duties. I liked the cute romantic aspect that was included and how Vlad's confidence grew throughout this book.

The inclusion of the trip to Siberia for what I began to think of as Vampire School gave Vlad (and me as a reader) the opportunity to see the other side of vampire life depicted in these stories. Due to this trip Vlad's powers are not only increased but the bond he has with his Uncle Otis is strengthened.

The introduction of Vampire Hunters provided an interesting development. Chapters focalized from the Hunters perspective gave insight into the Hunter's background. There was no surprise when the identity of the Hunter was revealed as the clues are placed within the narrative to easily be picked up on.

There are some clever plot twists and jaw dropping incident that could well be classified as a cliff-hanger. However,  I am slightly incredulous as to one point (no spoilers) and would like further explanation regarding Diablo please.

Full of ironic humour and sarcasm (oh how I love sarcasm) this book provides a refreshing addition to the vampire genre with greater appeal to boys than most vampire books.

I dare you to read this book and not become a minion of 'Auntie' Heathers.