Review Time! You Against Me is written by Jenny Downham who’s the author of bestselling Before I die. The cover is quite catchy I do think with the dark colors and then this burst of red (although I think it’s usually green, my copy that was kindly provided by random House Australia was red) Anyhow, let’s start…
(Goodreads) If someone hurts your sister and you're any kind of man, you seek revenge, right? If your brother's been accused of a terrible crime and you're the main witness, then you banish all doubt and defend him. Isn't that what families do? When Mikey's sister claims a boy assaulted her at a party, his world of work and girls begins to fall apart. When Ellie's brother is charged with the crime, but says he didn't do it, her world of revision, exams and fitting in at a new school begins to unravel. When Mikey and Ellie meet, two worlds collide. Brave and unflinching, this is a novel of extraordinary skillfulness and almost unbearable tension. It's a book about loyalty and the choices that come with it. But above all it's a book about love - for one's family and for another.
The Short Story? - A novel about loyalty and first love, You Against Me is a novel about the tug of war between love and family as we follow the novel through the eyes of Mikey and Ellie two teenagers whose worlds have collided. It’s a novel about loss and pain and dysfunctional families. Moving, beautiful and captivating. This one is for the contemporary lovers.
The Long Story? - You Against Me is a dark contemporary and to an extent a Coming-to-Age novel. I hate both dark contemporaries and Coming-to-Age novels but I surprising enjoyed this one. It’s not something I would usually read and it’s very different. There are parts that I really enjoyed but there are also parts where I thought it was quite boring.
My main problem with dark contemporaries is the plot or a lack of a plot. For someone who reads action-packed, paranormal love stories with happy endings, dark contemporaries are a little boring and depressing and bittersweet. You Against Me was written beautifully but it was a circular plot. You started with no answer and you ended with no answer. There is development but the ending is quite disappointing. This sexual assault that the book is based around, that made Mikey and Ellie’s worlds collide was talked about all through the novel. The trial, the lawyers, the solicitor, the hate, the pain and in the end it was still an unsolved case. Downham has built this whole story around this assault only to leave all the loose ends hanging. I understand that You Against Me is more of a ‘finding yourself’ novel and it’s more heavily based on emotional development but the ending was somewhat lacking. I seem to have this problem with every dark contemporary I read…
The characterization was good though. Downham has written the book through alternating perspective from Mikey to Ellie and so forth. It’s clever that she did that since we as readers get to read both sides of the story. I found that both protagonists were connected in a way even when they come from very different backgrounds. Which I guess is why they are attracted to each other. They’re very well portrayed and developed and part of the novel is focused around them find themselves and what’s important to them. They’re both dealing with families that are dysfunctional so they seek comfort in each other. Good romance, Downham has built between them, it’s…bittersweet. Gives love a different meaning.
The writing was very comfortable. Gives me a feeling of a soft, quiet narrative voice but it’s very strong and moving at the same time. Language used suggest that it’s written for teens of all ages but the contents suggest maybe it’s written for an older YA crowd. Very beautifully and moving writing, very melancholy but comfortable and easy to read.
I found that even with the somewhat lacking plot, You Against Me was quite captivating. The journey both Mikey and Ellie went through was moving and it’s a novel about pain and loyalty and first love. I liked it, it wasn’t my favourite book, I struggled with it in parts but in the end –it was enjoyable, I did like it. It wasn’t “me” but it’s definitely one that all contemporary lovers should read, this one is for you.
Rating – 7/10 ( It’s much easier to use a 10 scale with contemporary reads since there are more things to consider while reviewing)
Badass Bookie xx
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Breakfast with the Bookie - Readers: Coming-to-Age Novels - Love them or Hate them?
Breakfast with the Bookie is a weekly feature here at Badass Bookiw where I post and we discuss while we drink our morning cuppa coffee!
This Week’s Topic – Readers: Coming-to-Age Novels – Love them or hate them?
Coming-to-Age novels are fairly common in YA fiction. Since when we think Coming-to-Age we think teenagers. Lots of authors write them, on the top of my head I can think of – Sarah Dessen (to an extent), Judy Blume, William Nicholson and Louise Rennison. It’s a widely written topic/genre/theme and most Coming-to-Age novels are popular among readers.
However what if you've already Coming-to-Aged? Do you still get the same enjoyment from them? Do you still read them? Do you think they're silly? Helpful? Nothing like what is actually is? I'm curious to see what adults think when they read Coming-to-Age novels.
As a teenager, I don’t like Coming-to- Age novels. They’re boring, mostly embarrassing and sometimes silly. They helpful in a way to prepare for what you're up against but at the same time, it's not what I would call fiction. The plots are usually dry and the romance has no passion. However there are exceptions to that statement, right now I'm reading Rich & Mad by William Nicholson and I'm actually quite enjoying it! Compared to other books I have read, it's definitely not my favoruite, some parts are a little boring or should I say slow-paced but it's not bad and for a Coming-to-Age novel it's pretty good!
So that's my opinion. I don't like Coming-to-Age novels but I don't hate them. You just have to find the good ones!
Badass Bookie xx
This Week’s Topic – Readers: Coming-to-Age Novels – Love them or hate them?
Coming-to-Age novels are fairly common in YA fiction. Since when we think Coming-to-Age we think teenagers. Lots of authors write them, on the top of my head I can think of – Sarah Dessen (to an extent), Judy Blume, William Nicholson and Louise Rennison. It’s a widely written topic/genre/theme and most Coming-to-Age novels are popular among readers.
However what if you've already Coming-to-Aged? Do you still get the same enjoyment from them? Do you still read them? Do you think they're silly? Helpful? Nothing like what is actually is? I'm curious to see what adults think when they read Coming-to-Age novels.
As a teenager, I don’t like Coming-to- Age novels. They’re boring, mostly embarrassing and sometimes silly. They helpful in a way to prepare for what you're up against but at the same time, it's not what I would call fiction. The plots are usually dry and the romance has no passion. However there are exceptions to that statement, right now I'm reading Rich & Mad by William Nicholson and I'm actually quite enjoying it! Compared to other books I have read, it's definitely not my favoruite, some parts are a little boring or should I say slow-paced but it's not bad and for a Coming-to-Age novel it's pretty good!
So that's my opinion. I don't like Coming-to-Age novels but I don't hate them. You just have to find the good ones!
Badass Bookie xx
Monday, June 27, 2011
Uncommon Criminals ( Spoiler -Free)
Review Time! Thanks to this novel I'm currently in this whole faze where I'm addicted to action movies with romance, if you have any recommendations please leave a comment! This is the 2nd book in the Hiest Society series written by Ally Carter. Thanks to Hachette Children's for the review copy!
Which means, this time, Katarina Bishop is making up her own rules.
The Short Story? – Pure genius. That’s Uncommon Criminals in a nutshell, pure genius. Clever, witty and exciting, the much anticipated sequel to Heist Society is action-packed and fast-paced. Fantastic writing, great characters and one of the most genius plots I have ever read! Engrossing, it’s a roller coaster adventure!
The Long Story? – Ally Carter is a literacy genius. She’s just brilliant! If you googled action novels for girls, you’ll find Ally Carter. All the shebang of the best action novels mixed with romance and it gives you a masterpiece written by Ally Carter. You can’t go wrong with Ally Carter because everyone loves spies and world class thieves.
To be completely honest, I’m very jealous of Carter. She writes just about the cleverest novels I have ever read and for someone who reads on average 120 novels year that’s something. I’m absolutely stumped about how she comes up with half of the things that make up the plot of this novel. I harboring a secret suspicion that she is a world class thief herself, I mean who know that much about performing heist? Quirky, witty and clever Ally written a novel filled with action, gripping suspense and a thrilling adventure. Uncommon Criminals takes you into the heart of the secret society of thieves, the insider’s scoop of how the world’s greatest treasures disappear from under our nose and the sitting-on-the-edge-of-our-seat excitement as we follow Kat and her team as they perform some of the greatest heist the world has seen.
Fantastic characterization. Firstly Carter has written a novel centered on characters that aren’t trying to solve the crime but doing the crime. It’s refreshingly to read the adventures of the bad guys for once because let’s face it, being good all the time is bo-ring. Kat is a strong and smart protagonist that I’ve grown to admire and well, I’m extremely envious of her. Not just because she has Hale and quite possibly Nick around her pinkie but she’s just brilliant. Our love interest is a man who loves the mystery behind his name (literally and metaphorically), it’s hard to not fall for a guy whose good-looking and holds the mysterious appeal right? Minor characters aka Kat’s team are all unique and in their own way lovable. A nice cast of characters that you will never tire of.
Lastly, the romance. Carter has the frustrating way of dragging out the romance and it drives me mad because the chemistry is sizzling between our lovebirds but Carter refuses to give them a happy ending instead putting us through this torturous wait to see what happens. Effective way to guarantee the sales of the third book in the series though, I’m dying to see where Kat and Hale epic (and frustrating) romance goes. A romance that would leave readers wanting more and we’re not even the ones getting kissed!
Bottomline, Uncommon Criminals is perfect for anyone looking for an action-packed novel filled with clever lines and sizzling romance. It’s badass and Bookie is love with the series! Clever, fast-paced and gripping plot following the lives of criminals is just what we need to spice up our reading pile! Great characters and comfortable narrative voice, let the wait begin for what Carter has install for us next. The Heist Society series comes with a tick of approval from Bookie :) Please pick up a copy at your nearest bookstore!
Rating - 6/5 (it’s too brilliant)
Badass Bookie xx
(Goodreads) Katarina Bishop has worn a lot of labels in her short life: Friend. Niece. Daughter. Thief. But for the last two months she’s simply been known as the girl who ran the crew that robbed the greatest museum in the world. That’s why Kat isn’t surprised when she’s asked to steal the infamous Cleopatra Emerald so it can be returned to its rightful owners. There are only three problems. First, the gem hasn’t been seen in public in thirty years. Second, since the fall of the Egyptian empire and the suicide of Cleopatra, no one who holds the emerald keeps it for long — and in Kat’s world, history almost always repeats itself. But it’s the third problem that makes Kat’s crew the most nervous, and that is . . . the emerald is cursed.Kat might be in way over her head, but she’s not going down without a fight. After all, she has her best friend — the gorgeous Hale — and the rest of her crew with her as they chase the Cleopatra around the globe, dodging curses and realizing that the same tricks and cons her family has used for centuries are useless this time.
Which means, this time, Katarina Bishop is making up her own rules.
The Short Story? – Pure genius. That’s Uncommon Criminals in a nutshell, pure genius. Clever, witty and exciting, the much anticipated sequel to Heist Society is action-packed and fast-paced. Fantastic writing, great characters and one of the most genius plots I have ever read! Engrossing, it’s a roller coaster adventure!
The Long Story? – Ally Carter is a literacy genius. She’s just brilliant! If you googled action novels for girls, you’ll find Ally Carter. All the shebang of the best action novels mixed with romance and it gives you a masterpiece written by Ally Carter. You can’t go wrong with Ally Carter because everyone loves spies and world class thieves.
To be completely honest, I’m very jealous of Carter. She writes just about the cleverest novels I have ever read and for someone who reads on average 120 novels year that’s something. I’m absolutely stumped about how she comes up with half of the things that make up the plot of this novel. I harboring a secret suspicion that she is a world class thief herself, I mean who know that much about performing heist? Quirky, witty and clever Ally written a novel filled with action, gripping suspense and a thrilling adventure. Uncommon Criminals takes you into the heart of the secret society of thieves, the insider’s scoop of how the world’s greatest treasures disappear from under our nose and the sitting-on-the-edge-of-our-seat excitement as we follow Kat and her team as they perform some of the greatest heist the world has seen.
Fantastic characterization. Firstly Carter has written a novel centered on characters that aren’t trying to solve the crime but doing the crime. It’s refreshingly to read the adventures of the bad guys for once because let’s face it, being good all the time is bo-ring. Kat is a strong and smart protagonist that I’ve grown to admire and well, I’m extremely envious of her. Not just because she has Hale and quite possibly Nick around her pinkie but she’s just brilliant. Our love interest is a man who loves the mystery behind his name (literally and metaphorically), it’s hard to not fall for a guy whose good-looking and holds the mysterious appeal right? Minor characters aka Kat’s team are all unique and in their own way lovable. A nice cast of characters that you will never tire of.
Lastly, the romance. Carter has the frustrating way of dragging out the romance and it drives me mad because the chemistry is sizzling between our lovebirds but Carter refuses to give them a happy ending instead putting us through this torturous wait to see what happens. Effective way to guarantee the sales of the third book in the series though, I’m dying to see where Kat and Hale epic (and frustrating) romance goes. A romance that would leave readers wanting more and we’re not even the ones getting kissed!
Bottomline, Uncommon Criminals is perfect for anyone looking for an action-packed novel filled with clever lines and sizzling romance. It’s badass and Bookie is love with the series! Clever, fast-paced and gripping plot following the lives of criminals is just what we need to spice up our reading pile! Great characters and comfortable narrative voice, let the wait begin for what Carter has install for us next. The Heist Society series comes with a tick of approval from Bookie :) Please pick up a copy at your nearest bookstore!
Rating - 6/5 (it’s too brilliant)
Badass Bookie xx
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Lord of Misrule (Spoiler-Free, for those who haven't read the series...yet)
Review Time! I decided to give myself two days off blogging and now I'm back! The problem with taking breaks is that the reviews just pile up right now I have six books in desperate need of a review! Lord of Misrule is the fifth book in the Morganville Vampires series written by Rachel Caine! Thanks to Penguin for the review copy!
(Goodreads) Morganville. Texas. Just south of normal. In the college town of Morganville, vampires and humans coexist in (relatively) bloodless harmony. Then comes Bishop, a master vampire who threatens to abolish all order, revive the forces of the evil dead, and let chaos rule. But Bishop isn't the only threat. Violent black clouds promise a storm of devastating proportions. As student Claire Danvers and her friends prepare to defend Morganville against the elements - both natural and unnatural - the unexpected happens: Morganville's vampires begin to vanish one by one. Discovering why leads Claire to one last choice: swear allegiance to Bishop...or die.
The Short Story - I lied in my last review of this series. Feast of Fools wasn't my favourite...this one is! Exciting, unpredictable and action-packed! It's war in Morganville! Brilliant plot that's only getting better, characters that you simply have to love and a vampire series like no other! It's different, it's unique and if you haven't read Morganville Vampires yet...you haven't experienced vampire fiction at it's best!
The Long Story - Okay, so I've changed my mind and said this novel is my favourite of the lot so far. Numerous reasons for this change of heart that I will be sharing in this review. My hope is that you will stay for the duration of this pent-out rant on how awesome Lord of Misrule is! It's spoiler free for those of you who haven't dug into the series yet.
So I'm a romance junkie yes? There are two types of romances in YA fiction - 1) marketed romance 2) love that's real and believable. I admit that I like both but the romance in Morganville falls into the latter category. Caine hasn't promised us a happy ending between my favourite characters Shane and Claire or their less-awesome but still awesome roommates Eve and Michael but the love is real or as real as fiction can get :P As far as romance goes, Lord of Misrule was an important milestone.For one, three very important words were said, two, their love for each other is really put to the test as Morganville starts to crumble around them! Some of the best romance I have read!
The characterisation was absolutely fantastic as always! I didn't think it was possible for me to fall more in love with them but I did! Brilliant characters, every one of them different and significant in one way or another. I even started to like the characters that I once thought I would never like. The relationship between the characters have developed as well. New friends and allies are made and everyones' sticking together because there is a more dangerous threat in town ( Bishop). Again, I can't say tell you how much I appreciate Caine's take on vampires. They aren't sparkly or all that attractive but they're mean and cunning and how vampires should be. Thank-you Caine for writing vampires as they should be!
However the epic plot was definitely the cherry on top! Fast-paced, unpredictable, heart-thumping action! With the new arrivals in town, Morganville is in chaos! Brilliant, lots of action but still with room left for romance and an epic killer ending that leaves me wanting for more! Fantastic from start to finish, Lord of Misrule is a guaranteed good read with no boring bits. I read this in one ( reasonable short) sitting! Fantastic narrative voice that's comfortable and easy to understand. YA as it should be written!
I know I'm starting to sound like a broken record but The Morganville Vampires is one series you must read. Add it to your bucket list, head to the nearest bookstore, this is vampire faction written as it should be. Authentic, exciting and absolutely brilliant! This is one series you wouldn't want to miss!
Badass Bookie xx
(Goodreads) Morganville. Texas. Just south of normal. In the college town of Morganville, vampires and humans coexist in (relatively) bloodless harmony. Then comes Bishop, a master vampire who threatens to abolish all order, revive the forces of the evil dead, and let chaos rule. But Bishop isn't the only threat. Violent black clouds promise a storm of devastating proportions. As student Claire Danvers and her friends prepare to defend Morganville against the elements - both natural and unnatural - the unexpected happens: Morganville's vampires begin to vanish one by one. Discovering why leads Claire to one last choice: swear allegiance to Bishop...or die.
The Short Story - I lied in my last review of this series. Feast of Fools wasn't my favourite...this one is! Exciting, unpredictable and action-packed! It's war in Morganville! Brilliant plot that's only getting better, characters that you simply have to love and a vampire series like no other! It's different, it's unique and if you haven't read Morganville Vampires yet...you haven't experienced vampire fiction at it's best!
The Long Story - Okay, so I've changed my mind and said this novel is my favourite of the lot so far. Numerous reasons for this change of heart that I will be sharing in this review. My hope is that you will stay for the duration of this pent-out rant on how awesome Lord of Misrule is! It's spoiler free for those of you who haven't dug into the series yet.
So I'm a romance junkie yes? There are two types of romances in YA fiction - 1) marketed romance 2) love that's real and believable. I admit that I like both but the romance in Morganville falls into the latter category. Caine hasn't promised us a happy ending between my favourite characters Shane and Claire or their less-awesome but still awesome roommates Eve and Michael but the love is real or as real as fiction can get :P As far as romance goes, Lord of Misrule was an important milestone.For one, three very important words were said, two, their love for each other is really put to the test as Morganville starts to crumble around them! Some of the best romance I have read!
The characterisation was absolutely fantastic as always! I didn't think it was possible for me to fall more in love with them but I did! Brilliant characters, every one of them different and significant in one way or another. I even started to like the characters that I once thought I would never like. The relationship between the characters have developed as well. New friends and allies are made and everyones' sticking together because there is a more dangerous threat in town ( Bishop). Again, I can't say tell you how much I appreciate Caine's take on vampires. They aren't sparkly or all that attractive but they're mean and cunning and how vampires should be. Thank-you Caine for writing vampires as they should be!
However the epic plot was definitely the cherry on top! Fast-paced, unpredictable, heart-thumping action! With the new arrivals in town, Morganville is in chaos! Brilliant, lots of action but still with room left for romance and an epic killer ending that leaves me wanting for more! Fantastic from start to finish, Lord of Misrule is a guaranteed good read with no boring bits. I read this in one ( reasonable short) sitting! Fantastic narrative voice that's comfortable and easy to understand. YA as it should be written!
I know I'm starting to sound like a broken record but The Morganville Vampires is one series you must read. Add it to your bucket list, head to the nearest bookstore, this is vampire faction written as it should be. Authentic, exciting and absolutely brilliant! This is one series you wouldn't want to miss!
Badass Bookie xx
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Fall for Anything
Review Time! Fall for Anything is the latest novel written by Courtney Summers author of Cracked Up to be and Some Girls Are. It’s got a beautiful cover doesn’t it? Thanks to Pan Macmillan for the review copy :P
(Goodreads) When Eddie Reeves’s father commits suicide her life is consumed by the nagging question of why? Why when he was a legendary photographer and a brilliant teacher? Why when he seemed to find inspiration in everything he saw? And, most important, why when he had a daughter who loved him more than anyone else in the world? When she meets Culler Evans, a former student of her father’s and a photographer himself, an instant and dangerous attraction begins. Culler seems to know more about her father than she does and could possibly hold the key to the mystery surrounding his death. But Eddie’s vulnerability has weakened her and Culler Evans is getting too close. Her need for the truth keeps her hanging on...but are some questions better left unanswered?
The Short Story? – A haunting novel about dealing with grief and moving on. The novel follows Eddie as she searches for answer to a mystery that doesn’t want to be solved. Beautiful, dark and captivating. A novel that speaks of sadness, grief and life beyond. Lovers of If I Stay and The Sky is Everywhere will love this.
The Long Story? - This book is freakishly like The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson. It’s hardcore, the best of dark contemporary for all lovers of contemporary. As I write this review, I remember I wrote a similar one for The Sky is Everywhere, all the things considered, the strength and weakness for both novels are very similar.
I had some problems with the plot. I found it a little bit …lacking. Summers beautifully built up all this suspense and mystery around the suicide of Eddie’s father. This engrossing idea of Eddie trying to figure out why he did it is basically what the whole novel is based around. I honestly enjoyed the novel til I turned the last page when I thought ‘that’s it?’ I was a little disappointed after all this great built up when the ending was so…lacking. I thought about the novel a lot after I finished it and it came to mind that the mystery around the suicide isn’t the point of the novel. It was the journey of the search for the truth. That’s when I finally understood that the plot was more of an emotional journey than anything else. Like I said, lovers of all things contemporary, this one’s perfect for you. The emotional journey, the depressing death and the whole shebang, yup right up your alley: P
If I found the plot lacking, the characterization truly made up for it. Really the characters were very well developed. Eddie, our protagonist was portrayed as girl lost in grief after her father’s death. She meets Culler a former student and they both go on a journey to discover the truth behind the death of Eddie’s father. On the way they develop a romance where they seek comfort and love from each other. Honestly, Fall for Anything is freakishly like The Sky is Everywhere. Eddie would be Lennie, Culler would be Toby and Milo (Eddie’s best friend and other love interest) would be Joe. This leads me to my next point.
The romance as minor as it plays in the outcome of things is actually one of my favourite things. I like the idea of Culler and Eddie’s grief pushing them together to seek comfort in each other. I thought there was real chemistry between the two. I’m hoping that Summer might write a sequel like Where She Went that follows their romance a few years into the future (wishful thinking maybe).
Beautiful, moving narrative voice. A great cast of characters and a novel that we can all relate to on some level, whether it is dealing with death or grief, discovering the importance of family and friends or releasing answer aren’t always important. Beautiful, gripping and moving. The Sky is Everywhere with a darker edge and written for an older audience. One for the contemporary lovers.
Rating - 7/10 (The 1-5 scale doesn’t cover this one. As a paranormal junkie, it wasn’t my cup of tea but I somewhat really enjoyed it. It’s one of those books that you had to work to enjoy, you struggle with it but then you turn the last page, think about it loads and then you smile and think what a great book)
Badass Bookie xx
(Goodreads) When Eddie Reeves’s father commits suicide her life is consumed by the nagging question of why? Why when he was a legendary photographer and a brilliant teacher? Why when he seemed to find inspiration in everything he saw? And, most important, why when he had a daughter who loved him more than anyone else in the world? When she meets Culler Evans, a former student of her father’s and a photographer himself, an instant and dangerous attraction begins. Culler seems to know more about her father than she does and could possibly hold the key to the mystery surrounding his death. But Eddie’s vulnerability has weakened her and Culler Evans is getting too close. Her need for the truth keeps her hanging on...but are some questions better left unanswered?
The Short Story? – A haunting novel about dealing with grief and moving on. The novel follows Eddie as she searches for answer to a mystery that doesn’t want to be solved. Beautiful, dark and captivating. A novel that speaks of sadness, grief and life beyond. Lovers of If I Stay and The Sky is Everywhere will love this.
The Long Story? - This book is freakishly like The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson. It’s hardcore, the best of dark contemporary for all lovers of contemporary. As I write this review, I remember I wrote a similar one for The Sky is Everywhere, all the things considered, the strength and weakness for both novels are very similar.
I had some problems with the plot. I found it a little bit …lacking. Summers beautifully built up all this suspense and mystery around the suicide of Eddie’s father. This engrossing idea of Eddie trying to figure out why he did it is basically what the whole novel is based around. I honestly enjoyed the novel til I turned the last page when I thought ‘that’s it?’ I was a little disappointed after all this great built up when the ending was so…lacking. I thought about the novel a lot after I finished it and it came to mind that the mystery around the suicide isn’t the point of the novel. It was the journey of the search for the truth. That’s when I finally understood that the plot was more of an emotional journey than anything else. Like I said, lovers of all things contemporary, this one’s perfect for you. The emotional journey, the depressing death and the whole shebang, yup right up your alley: P
If I found the plot lacking, the characterization truly made up for it. Really the characters were very well developed. Eddie, our protagonist was portrayed as girl lost in grief after her father’s death. She meets Culler a former student and they both go on a journey to discover the truth behind the death of Eddie’s father. On the way they develop a romance where they seek comfort and love from each other. Honestly, Fall for Anything is freakishly like The Sky is Everywhere. Eddie would be Lennie, Culler would be Toby and Milo (Eddie’s best friend and other love interest) would be Joe. This leads me to my next point.
The romance as minor as it plays in the outcome of things is actually one of my favourite things. I like the idea of Culler and Eddie’s grief pushing them together to seek comfort in each other. I thought there was real chemistry between the two. I’m hoping that Summer might write a sequel like Where She Went that follows their romance a few years into the future (wishful thinking maybe).
Beautiful, moving narrative voice. A great cast of characters and a novel that we can all relate to on some level, whether it is dealing with death or grief, discovering the importance of family and friends or releasing answer aren’t always important. Beautiful, gripping and moving. The Sky is Everywhere with a darker edge and written for an older audience. One for the contemporary lovers.
Rating - 7/10 (The 1-5 scale doesn’t cover this one. As a paranormal junkie, it wasn’t my cup of tea but I somewhat really enjoyed it. It’s one of those books that you had to work to enjoy, you struggle with it but then you turn the last page, think about it loads and then you smile and think what a great book)
Badass Bookie xx
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Breakfast with the Bookie - Reviewers: Do You Write Bad Reviews?
Breakfast with the Bookie is a “regular feature here at Badass Bookie taking place every Wednesday ( except for last week when Wednesday clashed with Debut of the Month!) . It’s a discussion that you can read along with your morning cup of coffee! Bloggers Unite!
This Week's Topic - Reviewers: Do You Write Bad Review?
Simple question right? When you read a book do you write honest reviews? If you hate a book would you write that you hate it? Or would you force down the distaste and write that you loved it anyway? Would you worry about offending authors and publishers? Honestly, how honest are you with your reviews?
Me? I think I'm pretty honest. I review for Australian publishers and while I like to write good reviews for their books, I would prefer to state my honest opinions about the novel. When a publisher asks you to review for them, they want your honest opinion, people have different tastes and different preferences and they understand. A novel can't be good enough to make everyone happy ( unless it's Harry Potter, everyone loves Harry he's totally awesome).
How do I avoid writing Negative Reviews?
1) Request books that I would actually ( very likely) enjoy - I'm careful with what I request from publishers, I read reviews, the blurb, take note of other work by the author and then decide whether it's the book for me. I would much rather request a book I know I will enjoy than one that's getting lots of hype but is something I would never really pick up.
2) Awfully Bad Book? No Review! - It's sorta cheating but I don't have to review every book I read, no requirement there either. I most definitely review every book I request from publishers but unsolicited copies and my own copies go by a different stories. Publishers are actually great judges on what I like to read and what I don't. I barely ever get an unsolicited that doesn't appeal to me. However if I really hated a book ( only one book that comes to mind and it has been reviewed on the blog) usually I just don't review it. That way I don't have to feel and about giving it a negative review and people can decide for themselves whether they want to read it without me swaying them either way.
3) Talk about the good things and less about the bad things - I sometimes make a pros and cons list before I review (mentally). If you ever read one of my awfully long reviews you'll see that I talk mainly about plot, characterisation, writing and romance. If I read a book with a great plot but poor romance, I'll talk more about the plot then. That way I can compromise, I don't have to write an really awful review but it's not lying either!
How do you deal with awful reviews? More importantly, how do you write the reviews?
Badass Bookie xx
This Week's Topic - Reviewers: Do You Write Bad Review?
Simple question right? When you read a book do you write honest reviews? If you hate a book would you write that you hate it? Or would you force down the distaste and write that you loved it anyway? Would you worry about offending authors and publishers? Honestly, how honest are you with your reviews?
Me? I think I'm pretty honest. I review for Australian publishers and while I like to write good reviews for their books, I would prefer to state my honest opinions about the novel. When a publisher asks you to review for them, they want your honest opinion, people have different tastes and different preferences and they understand. A novel can't be good enough to make everyone happy ( unless it's Harry Potter, everyone loves Harry he's totally awesome).
How do I avoid writing Negative Reviews?
1) Request books that I would actually ( very likely) enjoy - I'm careful with what I request from publishers, I read reviews, the blurb, take note of other work by the author and then decide whether it's the book for me. I would much rather request a book I know I will enjoy than one that's getting lots of hype but is something I would never really pick up.
2) Awfully Bad Book? No Review! - It's sorta cheating but I don't have to review every book I read, no requirement there either. I most definitely review every book I request from publishers but unsolicited copies and my own copies go by a different stories. Publishers are actually great judges on what I like to read and what I don't. I barely ever get an unsolicited that doesn't appeal to me. However if I really hated a book ( only one book that comes to mind and it has been reviewed on the blog) usually I just don't review it. That way I don't have to feel and about giving it a negative review and people can decide for themselves whether they want to read it without me swaying them either way.
3) Talk about the good things and less about the bad things - I sometimes make a pros and cons list before I review (mentally). If you ever read one of my awfully long reviews you'll see that I talk mainly about plot, characterisation, writing and romance. If I read a book with a great plot but poor romance, I'll talk more about the plot then. That way I can compromise, I don't have to write an really awful review but it's not lying either!
How do you deal with awful reviews? More importantly, how do you write the reviews?
Badass Bookie xx
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Beauty Queens
Review Time! Beauty Queens by Libba Bray is probably one of the most anticipated novels I’ve seen around. Lots of talk of it and who doesn’t love a story about beauty pageants contestants stranded on an island? Thanks to Allen and Unwin for the review copy!
(Goodreads) The story of a plane of beauty pageant contestants that crashes on a desert island.
Teen beauty queens. A "Lost"-like island. Mysteries and dangers. No access to email. And the spirit of fierce, feral competition that lives underground in girls, a savage brutality that can only be revealed by a journey into the heart of non-exfoliated darkness. Oh, the horror, the horror! Only funnier. With evening gowns. And a body count.
The Short Story? – Beauty Queens isn’t as funny as everyone is making it out to be, it’s funnier. I don’t think I have laughed so hard reading any other books :P Funny, witty and completely original. A hilarious take on beauty queens, reality TV and pop culture. Pure genius, this one is perfect for summer!
The Long Story? – I was really looking forward to reading Beauty Queens, I admit the hype had something to do with it, all the talk about it being funnier than funny completely sold me. Plus, after watching Miss Congeniality I have this fascination with beauty pageants. In all, I had high expectations for this one and it goes without saying that it was brilliant!
The plot was better than I thought it would be. Some of it was expected but some parts were just so random (in a good way). One devastating plane crash later, three quarters of our Miss Teen Dream are dead and the rest are left to play survivor on a lost island. It’s the beginning to an epic adventure. Fast-paced and adventurous, this is a novel that leaves the reader wanting more! Pirates, Boy bands, Nigerian drumming and Evil political leaders are only part of what goes on :P Witty and humorous, beauty queens are not to be underestimated.
In a novel that really can’t all be taken seriously, Bray has managed to weave in real teen dramas, problems that make us stop and actually think so that we actually have to take it seriously. The characterization is amazing. Bray has managed to combine the stereotypical beauty queen personality with ambition, hope and dream to create a cast of characters that are hard not love. The girls really grew on me! A novel that really embraces ‘Don’t judge people by the way they look’.
Writing was fantastic, I wouldn’t have expected anything less from Bray. Funny, random (in a good way) and comfortable. It’s light, cute and fluffy and perfect for summer. Special mention for Bray’s admirable ability to write the lyrics of ‘Let Me Shave Your Legs Tonight, Girl’ (see funny?). I don’t know how Bray comes up with half the stuff she writes but it’s fantastic!
Beauty Queens is one to be enjoyed by readers of all ages. Witty, funny and exciting. Bray manages to explore real teen crises within the completely hilarious take on pop culture. Strongly recommend this to everyone because we’re never too old for beauty queens ;P
Rating - 5/5
Badass Bookie xx
(Goodreads) The story of a plane of beauty pageant contestants that crashes on a desert island.
Teen beauty queens. A "Lost"-like island. Mysteries and dangers. No access to email. And the spirit of fierce, feral competition that lives underground in girls, a savage brutality that can only be revealed by a journey into the heart of non-exfoliated darkness. Oh, the horror, the horror! Only funnier. With evening gowns. And a body count.
The Short Story? – Beauty Queens isn’t as funny as everyone is making it out to be, it’s funnier. I don’t think I have laughed so hard reading any other books :P Funny, witty and completely original. A hilarious take on beauty queens, reality TV and pop culture. Pure genius, this one is perfect for summer!
The Long Story? – I was really looking forward to reading Beauty Queens, I admit the hype had something to do with it, all the talk about it being funnier than funny completely sold me. Plus, after watching Miss Congeniality I have this fascination with beauty pageants. In all, I had high expectations for this one and it goes without saying that it was brilliant!
The plot was better than I thought it would be. Some of it was expected but some parts were just so random (in a good way). One devastating plane crash later, three quarters of our Miss Teen Dream are dead and the rest are left to play survivor on a lost island. It’s the beginning to an epic adventure. Fast-paced and adventurous, this is a novel that leaves the reader wanting more! Pirates, Boy bands, Nigerian drumming and Evil political leaders are only part of what goes on :P Witty and humorous, beauty queens are not to be underestimated.
In a novel that really can’t all be taken seriously, Bray has managed to weave in real teen dramas, problems that make us stop and actually think so that we actually have to take it seriously. The characterization is amazing. Bray has managed to combine the stereotypical beauty queen personality with ambition, hope and dream to create a cast of characters that are hard not love. The girls really grew on me! A novel that really embraces ‘Don’t judge people by the way they look’.
Writing was fantastic, I wouldn’t have expected anything less from Bray. Funny, random (in a good way) and comfortable. It’s light, cute and fluffy and perfect for summer. Special mention for Bray’s admirable ability to write the lyrics of ‘Let Me Shave Your Legs Tonight, Girl’ (see funny?). I don’t know how Bray comes up with half the stuff she writes but it’s fantastic!
Beauty Queens is one to be enjoyed by readers of all ages. Witty, funny and exciting. Bray manages to explore real teen crises within the completely hilarious take on pop culture. Strongly recommend this to everyone because we’re never too old for beauty queens ;P
Rating - 5/5
Badass Bookie xx
Monday, June 20, 2011
In the Arms of Stone Angels
Review Time! I'm really excited to review this one because I haven't seen all that many reviews for this book! In the Arms of Stone Angels written by Jordan Dane is a 2011 YA Debut! The US cover is different ( this one is prettier :P)! A big thank-you to Harlequin Teen for the review copy!
(Goodreads) Two years ago Brenna did the unthinkable. She witnessed the aftermath of a murder and accused her only true friend — the first boy she ever loved — of being a killer.
Now sixteen, Brenna returns to Oklahoma only to discover that Isaac ‘White Bird’ Henry isn’t in juvie. The half-breed outcast is in a mental hospital, frozen in time, locked in his mind at the worst moment of his life. When Brenna touches him, she’s pulled into his hellish vision quest, seeing terrifying demons and illusions she doesn’t understand.
Feeling isolated and alone, Brenna’s up against the whole town: targeted by bullying former classmates, a bigoted small town sheriff and a tribe who refuses to help one of their own.
But when Brenna realises she’s as trapped by the past as White Bird is, this time she won’t turn her back on him. She’s the only one who can free them both. Even if she has to expose her secret — a ‘gift’ she’s kept hidden her whole life
The Short Story? - A psychological thriller with a paranormal twist. Refreshingly original, eerily beautiful and emotionally raw. In the Arms of Stone Angels is a remarkable debut that will stay with you long after the last page. A tear-jerker, a mystery and a murder that tore two friends -two lovers- apart. Pretty Little Liars but more about emotions and less about designer clothes!
The Long Story? - It wasn't what I thought it would be. Honestly I was thinking more paranormal romance but I really loved how it turned out to be. It's nicer the way it is, more original and less clichéd. I've never actually read a psychological thriller before but I really enjoyed this one. In the Arms of Stone Angels is a novel I would recommend to everyone and anyone. It's doesn't get enough attention.
The plot was brilliant. It's a rather slow paced novel but it fits with the novel, it was easier to keep up with what was going on and believe me, there was alot going on. It's a murder mystery and basically Brenna is trying to find out what really happened two years ago. It's unpredictable and exciting, lots of suspense and heart pounding moments. However the murder mystery is really only half of the plot, the other half is an emotional journey Brenna takes to find herself and what's important to her. I wouldn't actually say it's a paranormal because the only thing paranormal about it is Brenna ability to see ghosts and the American Indian aspects of it. It's a novel for contemporary lovers looking for something new.
The characterisation is well thought out and Dane has managed to create some diversity in her characters cast. Our love interest and the 'heart' of the novel is a boy called 'White Bird' or Isaac Henry and he's American Indian. The latter part of the novel is heavily based around American Indian culture and it's all very different because authors are using characters with different background more often as minor characters but to make a main character not 'white' it's quite admirable and respectful. Our protagonist Brenna is someone I grew to really like. She's strong and capable but she's trapped under all this guilt that she can't move on, as the novel progresses we see slight changes in her personality and she's really grows to be someone confident and mature. Fantastic characterisation.
Last but not least, I would like to talk about Dane's writing. One of the best written YA novels I have read. Deeply moving, almost lyrical words stringed together, creating a unique and beautiful narrative voice. Easy to read and comfortable sentence structure Dane has one of the most beautiful YA voices I have read yet.
One of the best debuts I have read this year, beautiful, captivating, moving and breathtaking. In the Arms of Stone Angels is a novel about overcoming guilt, finding who you are and learning how to love again. This one’s a keeper.
Rating – 5/5
Badass Bookie xx
(Goodreads) Two years ago Brenna did the unthinkable. She witnessed the aftermath of a murder and accused her only true friend — the first boy she ever loved — of being a killer.
Now sixteen, Brenna returns to Oklahoma only to discover that Isaac ‘White Bird’ Henry isn’t in juvie. The half-breed outcast is in a mental hospital, frozen in time, locked in his mind at the worst moment of his life. When Brenna touches him, she’s pulled into his hellish vision quest, seeing terrifying demons and illusions she doesn’t understand.
Feeling isolated and alone, Brenna’s up against the whole town: targeted by bullying former classmates, a bigoted small town sheriff and a tribe who refuses to help one of their own.
But when Brenna realises she’s as trapped by the past as White Bird is, this time she won’t turn her back on him. She’s the only one who can free them both. Even if she has to expose her secret — a ‘gift’ she’s kept hidden her whole life
The Short Story? - A psychological thriller with a paranormal twist. Refreshingly original, eerily beautiful and emotionally raw. In the Arms of Stone Angels is a remarkable debut that will stay with you long after the last page. A tear-jerker, a mystery and a murder that tore two friends -two lovers- apart. Pretty Little Liars but more about emotions and less about designer clothes!
The Long Story? - It wasn't what I thought it would be. Honestly I was thinking more paranormal romance but I really loved how it turned out to be. It's nicer the way it is, more original and less clichéd. I've never actually read a psychological thriller before but I really enjoyed this one. In the Arms of Stone Angels is a novel I would recommend to everyone and anyone. It's doesn't get enough attention.
The plot was brilliant. It's a rather slow paced novel but it fits with the novel, it was easier to keep up with what was going on and believe me, there was alot going on. It's a murder mystery and basically Brenna is trying to find out what really happened two years ago. It's unpredictable and exciting, lots of suspense and heart pounding moments. However the murder mystery is really only half of the plot, the other half is an emotional journey Brenna takes to find herself and what's important to her. I wouldn't actually say it's a paranormal because the only thing paranormal about it is Brenna ability to see ghosts and the American Indian aspects of it. It's a novel for contemporary lovers looking for something new.
The characterisation is well thought out and Dane has managed to create some diversity in her characters cast. Our love interest and the 'heart' of the novel is a boy called 'White Bird' or Isaac Henry and he's American Indian. The latter part of the novel is heavily based around American Indian culture and it's all very different because authors are using characters with different background more often as minor characters but to make a main character not 'white' it's quite admirable and respectful. Our protagonist Brenna is someone I grew to really like. She's strong and capable but she's trapped under all this guilt that she can't move on, as the novel progresses we see slight changes in her personality and she's really grows to be someone confident and mature. Fantastic characterisation.
Last but not least, I would like to talk about Dane's writing. One of the best written YA novels I have read. Deeply moving, almost lyrical words stringed together, creating a unique and beautiful narrative voice. Easy to read and comfortable sentence structure Dane has one of the most beautiful YA voices I have read yet.
One of the best debuts I have read this year, beautiful, captivating, moving and breathtaking. In the Arms of Stone Angels is a novel about overcoming guilt, finding who you are and learning how to love again. This one’s a keeper.
Rating – 5/5
Badass Bookie xx
Sunday, June 19, 2011
In My Mailbox #29
Good Morning Luvies! I haven't had breakfast yet even if it is 11am in the morning. IMM is more important don't you think? Besides I'm not that hungry. Anyway, IMM is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi @ The Story Siren. We share the contents of our mailbox, that's IMM in a nutshell. I post IMM every two weeks :P
For Review -
The Lost Saint by Bree Despain
Rich and Mad by William Nicholson
ARC Shift by Em Bailey
Uncommon Criminals by Ally Carter
Jesse <3 NYC by Keris Stainton
Beauty Queens by Libba Bray
Passion by Lauren Kate
(Thanks to Hardi Grant, Hachette, Allen and Unwin and Random House)
R.A.K. -
Bumped by Megan McCafferty
Iron Daughter by Julie Kagawa
(Thanks to Cheri @ Mystrez's Craze Maze and Nikk @ Realm of the Sapphired Dragon )
Won -
The Girl in the Steel Corset ( HC) by Kady Cross ( I received a copy of this for review two weeks ago so now I have two copies. I going to keep this copy so does anyone want to trade with me for the paperback *brand new* or I willing to sell it for $5, I will only trade for something I really want in similar condition)
(Thanks to Rachel @ Fiktshun )
That's a wrap!
Badass Bookie xx
For Review -
The Lost Saint by Bree Despain
Rich and Mad by William Nicholson
ARC Shift by Em Bailey
Uncommon Criminals by Ally Carter
Jesse <3 NYC by Keris Stainton
Beauty Queens by Libba Bray
Passion by Lauren Kate
(Thanks to Hardi Grant, Hachette, Allen and Unwin and Random House)
R.A.K. -
Bumped by Megan McCafferty
Iron Daughter by Julie Kagawa
(Thanks to Cheri @ Mystrez's Craze Maze and Nikk @ Realm of the Sapphired Dragon )
Won -
The Girl in the Steel Corset ( HC) by Kady Cross ( I received a copy of this for review two weeks ago so now I have two copies. I going to keep this copy so does anyone want to trade with me for the paperback *brand new* or I willing to sell it for $5, I will only trade for something I really want in similar condition)
(Thanks to Rachel @ Fiktshun )
That's a wrap!
Badass Bookie xx
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Debut of the Month - All About Forgotten + Giveaway
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Book Profile
Debut - Forgotten ( Goodreads )
Author - Cat Patrick
Genre - Contemporary/ Mystery/Thriller/ Romance
Release Date - June 1st 2011
Available - The Book Depository/ The Nile
I remember forwards. I remember forwards, and forget backwards. My memories, bad, boring, or good, haven't happened yet. So I will remember standing in the fresh-cut grass with the black-clad figures surrounded by stone until I do it for real. I will remember the funeral until it happens - until someone dies. And after that, it will be forgotten. Here's the thing about me: I can see my future, but my past is blank. I see the future in flashes, like memories. I remember what I'll wear tomorrow, and a car crash that won't happen till this afternoon. But yesterday has evaporated from my mind - just like the boy I love. I can't see him in my future. I can't remember him from my past. But today, I love him. And I never want to forget how much.
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The Insider's Scoop
Here are a few fun facts about Forgotten:
1) Forgotten was in a hurry to be written. The first draft took under three months to write. That said, there were many edits before it became the book it is today.
2) London’s mom had a secret affair. Or at least she did in earlier versions of the book. Other things that were cut in editing: a tragic car accident and a (Snoresville) sick day.
3) The book sold at auction…during a heat wave. I was nail-bitingly nervous when my agent sent Forgotten out to editors; when I heard that more than one publisher wanted to buy it, I was ecstatic. I was also about to pass out: we were experiencing record high temps that day/week/month.
4) Forgotten has a very cool music video…in my head. Kings of Leon’s “Use Somebody” was popular when I was writing Forgotten. Since then, I’ve constructed a full-on music video in my brain set to that song. It’s awesome; you’d like it.
5) Originally, Forgotten’s title wasn’t Forgotten. When I submitted to my agent the first draft of what is now Forgotten, it was called Elsetime. The previous title was inspired by one of my favorite scenes in the book—London’s first date with Luke. Since Elsetime isn’t technically a word (and is therefore potentially difficult to remember), and since it’s a little fantasy-sounding, the original title was nixed. Not until just before it went to publishers did we land on Forgotten.
~Giveaway~
Hardi Grant Australia has kindly offered to giveaway (5) FIVE copies of Forgotten by Cat Patrick to you lucky readers! Unfortunately, due to publisher's request this contest is only open to Australian and New Zealand readers! Commenting is NOT required but it would be greatly appreciated since Cat put alot of effort into these posts and Hardi Grant is paying for books and shipping!
Rules of Entry - ( Please read carefully)
- Australia and New Zealand ONLY
- FIVE (5) Winners
- NOT required to comment but it will get you extra entries and it's GREATLY appreciated
- +1 Entry If You Comment on My Review ( HERE )
- MUST be 13
- MUST fill out this FORM
- Ends 7/7
Badass Bookie xx
Friday, June 17, 2011
Debut of the Month - All About Cat Patrick
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Debutante Profile
Name - Cat Patrick
Debut - Forgotten ( Goodreads )
Genre - Contemporary/ Mystery/Thriller/ Romance
Website - HERE
Blog - HERE
Twitter - HERE
On a rainy November morning, sleep-deprived new mom Cat Patrick forgot what she was doing. She retraced her steps, but instead of remembering, the idea for Forgotten was born. Cat lives near Seattle, with her husband and twin daughters, who now, thankfully, sleep through the night. Forgotten is her debut novel.
Dream Debutante Dress - Thanks for including me as a 2011 Debutante! Since I’m usually sporting yoga pants and a ponytail, I love the idea of dressing up for the occasion. I’ve chosen this amazing royal blue gown made of LEGO bricks for my debut. Who doesn’t love LEGO? Sure, I won’t be able to dance—or move?—but it’s the price I’m willing to pay for looking glamorous. I mean, c’mon, I drive a minivan. I leap—arms outstretched—toward the opportunity to bust out the faux lashes.
Notes from a YA Debutante
Because I love me some long eyelashes. Here are a few more random facts about me:
1) I’m seriously afraid of zombies. I’ve always been a jumpy sort of person: I was convinced that there was a ghost living in my closet growing up and scary voices give me the creeps for weeks. Recently, after watching a TV show about them, zombies became my fear du jour. Whenever Hubby travels, I stare into the darkness at night, wondering how I’m going to protect my two small children when the flesh-eaters attack. I attribute my fears to having a very vivid imagination, which as a writer, I guess I’m happy to have. But still…yikes!
2) I love my baby name book. One of my favorite parts of starting a new book is naming the characters. I flip through my well-worn baby name book, and look up meanings and rankings online, too. Once I wrote 50 pages of a novel, then stopped writing because the main character’s name wasn’t right. I didn’t start again until I found her name. PS: It wasn’t London. London Lane was London Lane from day one.
3) When I’m not writing…I’m having a dance party with two preschoolers who like to wear tutus and twirl around to Arcade Fire or Bruce Springsteen or Kings of Leon or Lady Gaga. If it’s nighttime, I’m probably drinking wine and relaxing with hubby, or going to movies. Wow, I sound very boring.
And, finally…
4) I can do the Axl Rose dance. But not in my LEGO dress.
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Badass Bookie xx
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Debut of the Month - All About Winter's Shadow + Giveaway
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Book Profile
Debut - Winter's Shadow ( Goodreads )
Author - M.J. Hearle
Genre - Paranormal Romance
Release Date - June 1st 2011
Available - The Nile
Blake Duchamp... He's all that Winter Adams can think of. Ever since their fateful meeting at Pilgrim's Lament. Ever since he looked at her with those emerald eyes.
Ever since he saved her life. But Blake isn't all that he seems. There is a strangeness about him, something dark and otherworldly. Something dangerous. In his attic is a secret he would kill to defend, but Winter seems to have a special ability to make him forget his duty. And he is her only protection against the gathering darkness.
The only problem is, to protect Winter, Blake must risk exposing her to an even greater danger. Himself
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Insiders Scoop
1) Writing Winter’s Shadow from the perspective of a teenage girl was quite the challenge. Though I have known many I, unfortunately, have never been a teenage girl. Luckily, I found as there weren’t many difference’s between a shy, imaginative teenage boy and a shy, imaginative teenage girl. The devil’s in the details, so they say. For example, at one point I had Winter going to bed with rollers in her hair, her face slathered in a beauty mask. I thought this is something all girls do until it was kindly pointed out to me by my mum that I might have been getting modern teenage girls confused with housewives from the 1950’s. So, thanks Mum!
2) It was my publishers suggestion I use the initials ‘M. J.’ rather than ‘Michael James’. The strategic thinking being that young women might be less likely to pick up a paranormal romance written by a man, and M. J. is gender neutral. I don’t mind. I enjoy the mystery of it all. Who is M. J. Hearle? (If anybody finds out please let me know!)
3) The book was originally called SHADE, unfortunately that title was already taken by another YA paranormal, so we had to come up with something else. Titles like BREATHLESS and HAUNTED were bandied about but I felt they were a little generic. In the first draft the lead character was called Elodie Winters (in part as an homage to Buffy Summers) so I thought why not call the novel, Winter’s Shadow? The sequel could be called Winter’s Light, the third book Winter’s Fall etc. My publisher was the one who suggested we change Elodie’s first name to Winter and I kicked myself for not thinking of it sooner. This goes to show just how valuable a good publisher is to the creative process.
5) Creating the Dead Lands was an incredible challenge. Originally I kept everything very vague and abstract hoping that the readers imagination would fill in the gaps. One of the reasons I did this was because I’m lazy. Shameful to admit, but true. The other reason was creating an entirely new world and monsters, while fun, is also very, very hard. There’s a reason so many authors fall back on the ever reliable vampire or werewolf. After struggling to answer questions about this new mythology of mine – from my agent, publisher, friends, pretty much anyone who read the book – I realised I had to sit down and figure it all out. I bounced ideas off my Dad, my Mum, and my girlfriend until I had established all the rules of my new supernatural mythology and was able to write a kind of Winter’s Shadow bible. This bible has been invaluable while I’ve been writing the sequel.
~Giveaway~
Okay, the giveaway! Pan Macmillan have kindly donated FOUR (4) copies of Winter's Shadow for you lucky readers! I'm will be personally shipping them out so let's make it International! Commenting is NOT required but it would be greatly appreciated since I'm putting in my own money to ship these beauties out, M.J. worked hard to get these posts in and Pan Mac for donating the books!
Rules of Entry - ( Please read carefully)
- International
- FOUR (4) Winners
- NOT required to comment but it will get you extra entries and it's GREATLY appreciated
- +1 Entry If You Comment on My Review ( Here )
- +1 Entry If You Comment on My Review ( Here )
- MUST be 13
- MUST fill out this FORM
- Ends 7/5
Badass Bookie xx
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Debut of the Month - All About M.J. Hearle
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Bachelor Profile
Name - M.J. Hearle
Debut - Winter's Shadow ( Goodreads )
Genre - Paranormal Romance
Website - HERE
Twitter - HERE
Aspiring writers generally aren’t the most popular kids in school. There’s a reason why a bookish person holding a notepad isn’t held up as a stereotype of uber-coolness along with the jock and cheerleader. I would love to offer evidence to the contrary, to spin anecdotes about being celebrated by my classmates for my witty writing and startling imagination but, alas, I can’t. My job is to tell stories, not lies.
After school, I spent ten years trying unsuccessfully to be a filmmaker and then decided I might try and be a novelist instead. This turned out to be a much better fit. Winter’s Shadow, my first novel, was scooped up by the publishing house Pan Macmillan and hit bookstores in June. Now I’m a published author you might assume I find it easier to talk to girls. I don’t.
Dream Bachelor Suit - As much as it would be fun for M.J. to pick out a dress, it would be more realistic for him to pick out something he can actually wear :P
Notes from a YA Bachelor
Thank you for inviting me to be a Badass Bookie debutante. I’m absolutely thrilled to be here, especially as it looks like I’m the only man so far. At least I should have no problem finding someone to dance with. Now, I just have to learn how to dance.
Also, thank you for giving me an opportunity to dress like one of my heroes, Mr Roarke from Fantasy Island. Nobody rocks a white suit like Mr Roarke. Or should that be Roarke’s a white suit...? (yeah I know – lucky I don’t write comedies).
Okay, so lets talk about the inspiration behind Winter’s Shadow. I’ve always loved supernatural fiction, so it seemed like a logical step to write something with a spooky element. I also figured the best stories have some kind of romance at the centre. So, it seemed my book should be some kind of spooky romance. The hurdle I had to overcome was Twilight. The series was such a phenomenon that hundreds of authors had flooded bookstores with similarly themed novels featuring sparkly vampires, non-sparkly vampires, werewolves, angels, and fairies. If I was going to contribute a story to this crowded arena then it would have to be something original. Something special.
I finally found my inspiration – or it found me – in a cemetery.
Around the time I turned thirty, I noticed something alarming – my body was no longer trim and taught. It seemed my metabolism, after years of struggling to process a steady diet of pizza, milkshakes and apple pie had finally given up the ghost. Drastic measures were considered – should I change my diet? Not likely. I strongly believe a salad is a side dish and should remain so. The only option available to me, other than buying a new set of pants with elasticised waistbands, was to exercise.
So, I started jogging. I didn’t stick to a set route, I just went wherever my feet led. One day they led me to a cemetery.
Waverley Cemetery to be precise, which overlooks Sydney’s Bronte Beach. It was just on sunset when I entered the gates, and the cemetery was a place of long shadows. Here’s a helpful tip for the reluctant exerciser: run through a cemetery at sunset. You’d be surprised what a good motivator fear is.
As I weaved through the tombstones, I was unnerved to see I wasn’t alone. There was a teenage girl standing a few rows away taking photographs. She was dressed in black and had thick, flowing red hair. Rather than being alarmed by the wild-eyed, sweaty man barrelling towards her, the red-haired girl appeared curiously unperturbed. Raising the camera, she snapped a picture of me as I passed, and then turned her attention back to the graves. Almost immediately, the gears of my imagination began to whir and I started to think what would happen if there was something unusual about the picture the girl had taken.
And so, I began to write Winter’s Shadow. The story was about a teenage girl with red hair, named Winter, who takes a photo of a mysterious stranger in a graveyard during a school assignment. The stranger’s name is Blake and as the two of them grow closer, Winter learns Blake has a secret. A dark and terrible secret, which he is desperate to keep hidden. Blake isn’t a vampire, werewolf, angel, fairy, Frankenstein monster, mummy, or a creature from the Black Lagoon. He’s something else. Something readers have never come across before.
After three months of writing (and several new grey hairs) I had a first draft, which led to me getting an agent, which led to me getting a publishing deal. I still can’t believe how quickly it all happened. Now, I just have to write the sequel.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
SO everyone meet our first ever Bachelor, M.J.! I'm not sure if he's eligible but Winter's Shadow definitely is! I just reviewed the book yesterday, so make sure you check out the review, I'll be very heart broken if you don't! :P It's really quite fantastic and I can't make any kidn of connection to Twilight *fist pump* Make sure you come back tomorrow to learn more abotu Winter, her shadow and the awesome Bachelor behind it all! Oh and we're giving away copies.
Badass Bookie xx
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Winter's Shadow
Review Time! So I know all I have been posting lately are reviews but I'm seriously behind on them and it's killing me to see the review stack grow higher and higher. This will be my fifth consecutive review BUT tomorrow starts Debut of the Month and to make it up to you guys, I have two Debut Authors and NINE (9) books to giveaway! Thanks to Pan Macmillan for the review copy!
(Goodreads) Blake Duchamp... He's all that Winter Adams can think of. Ever since their fateful meeting at Pilgrim's Lament. Ever since he looked at her with those emerald eyes. Ever since he saved her life.
But Blake isn't all that he seems. There is a strangeness about him, something dark and otherworldly. Something dangerous. In his attic is a secret he would kill to defend, but Winter seems to have a special ability to make him forget his duty. And he is her only protection against the gathering darkness.
The only problem is, to protect Winter, Blake must risk exposing her to an even greater danger. Himself
The Short Story ? - A remarkable debut! An original paranormal romance that will leave your heart aching for more. Beautifully written, a dark and captivating plot and fantastic characters that you will grow to love! M.J.'s debut is a master piece that will stay with you long after the last page! A paranormal romance you wouldn't want to miss!
The Long Story ? - Can I point out the M.J. is a guy? And that he's written Winter's Shadow from the perspective of a girl? To add that he's actually written a decent novel, fantastic actually! I'm quite biast in thinking that guys can't write well in perspectives of girls but M.J. has definitely proved me wrong! Not only is his novel captivating but the words he puts to paper are simply wonderful, enticing and makes you want to read on and on. He has a great YA voice and a unique writing style that is very memorable. I actually though M.J. was a girl to begin with! ( Yes, that's just how ninja skilled he is)
While the blurb might suggest something along the lines of Twilight, I really couldn't make the connection and I'm always looking for flaws in novels. Yes, the novel has the 'love at first sight with the paranormal twist' element but Blake is definitely not a vampire and I personally liked the romance in Winter's Shadow better than Twilight. However the romance is still developing and I would like to see where Winter and Blake's passionate, undeniable love for each other goes in the sequel. It's a rather slow paced novel but it's got a nice flow to it ( not boring though) and to an extent quite normal. Contemporary lovers might find this one in their taste.
The characters were well developed. Just to clear thing's up, Winter is actually our protagonist. Blake is the love of her life and hides a dark secret, brownie points for M.J. for picking something paranormal that hasn't been written about. I actually grew to like Winter very much, she's sweet and brave but more than anything she's real, she's believable. A nice cast of minor characters, some who annoyedme while others I found entertaining.
Winter's Shadow is a romance you wouldn't want to miss! Dark, haunting and beautiful, it's unforgettable and amazing! A fresh take on the paranormal, a guy writing as a girl and a romance that gives love a whole new meaning! A remarkable debut! M.J. is Australian too :P
Rating - 5/5
Badass Bookie xx
(Goodreads) Blake Duchamp... He's all that Winter Adams can think of. Ever since their fateful meeting at Pilgrim's Lament. Ever since he looked at her with those emerald eyes. Ever since he saved her life.
But Blake isn't all that he seems. There is a strangeness about him, something dark and otherworldly. Something dangerous. In his attic is a secret he would kill to defend, but Winter seems to have a special ability to make him forget his duty. And he is her only protection against the gathering darkness.
The only problem is, to protect Winter, Blake must risk exposing her to an even greater danger. Himself
The Short Story ? - A remarkable debut! An original paranormal romance that will leave your heart aching for more. Beautifully written, a dark and captivating plot and fantastic characters that you will grow to love! M.J.'s debut is a master piece that will stay with you long after the last page! A paranormal romance you wouldn't want to miss!
The Long Story ? - Can I point out the M.J. is a guy? And that he's written Winter's Shadow from the perspective of a girl? To add that he's actually written a decent novel, fantastic actually! I'm quite biast in thinking that guys can't write well in perspectives of girls but M.J. has definitely proved me wrong! Not only is his novel captivating but the words he puts to paper are simply wonderful, enticing and makes you want to read on and on. He has a great YA voice and a unique writing style that is very memorable. I actually though M.J. was a girl to begin with! ( Yes, that's just how ninja skilled he is)
While the blurb might suggest something along the lines of Twilight, I really couldn't make the connection and I'm always looking for flaws in novels. Yes, the novel has the 'love at first sight with the paranormal twist' element but Blake is definitely not a vampire and I personally liked the romance in Winter's Shadow better than Twilight. However the romance is still developing and I would like to see where Winter and Blake's passionate, undeniable love for each other goes in the sequel. It's a rather slow paced novel but it's got a nice flow to it ( not boring though) and to an extent quite normal. Contemporary lovers might find this one in their taste.
The characters were well developed. Just to clear thing's up, Winter is actually our protagonist. Blake is the love of her life and hides a dark secret, brownie points for M.J. for picking something paranormal that hasn't been written about. I actually grew to like Winter very much, she's sweet and brave but more than anything she's real, she's believable. A nice cast of minor characters, some who annoyedme while others I found entertaining.
Winter's Shadow is a romance you wouldn't want to miss! Dark, haunting and beautiful, it's unforgettable and amazing! A fresh take on the paranormal, a guy writing as a girl and a romance that gives love a whole new meaning! A remarkable debut! M.J. is Australian too :P
Rating - 5/5
Badass Bookie xx
Monday, June 13, 2011
The Unidentified
Review Time! The Unidentified by Rae Mariz is a 2010 Debut, it's also a dystopian! The US cover is different but the story is the same! I've been wanting to read this for quite a while now and would like to thank Text Publishing Australia for the review copy!
The Short Story ? - A clever and well-written debut! A wonderful and well portrayed dystopian society, based on the influence of pop culture and teenagers. Clever, witty and insightful. A psychological novel about teenagers, their influences and what freedom is to them!
The Long Story ? - Okay, the short story was really hard to write because it's so hard to sum up this novel in three sentences! I'm still a little unsure about what to think of it. I enjoyed it, it was highly original and Rae has teenagers down pact. She pretty much summed up teenagers in and out in this amazing debut. Okay, let's break it up.
I really like the whole dystopian society that Rae has built. It was highly original and a society I actually wouldn't mind being part of. Basically the government has converted shopping malls into Game Centres ( aka school) where kids spend all day doing things they love and trying to rise in popularity. If you get sponsored then you're pretty much a celebrity and social networking is the key to success. It's a shallow society and pretty much sums up the life of teenagers.
The plot was confusing at times but it's not because it wasn't well-written more like it was too complex, I never fully understood how this society worked and some parts of the novel required a little re-reading. More than anything I felt that even though I really enjoyed it, I felt it was still a little lacking. I kind of finished the novel like 'great novel, loved it but...what exactly did I love?'. It's one of those novels that you just can't pick out what parts you like. It's a love it or hate it novel. It's also rather slow paced but it flows nicely, not a long novel either, you could easily finish it in one to two days.
I liked the characters, Kid was your stereotypical social outcast. I really liked her, she was shy, quiet but had punch to her as well, there were times where I wanted to shake her and say ' WHAT ARE YOU DOING' but for the most part, she's a smart cookie :P The minor characters were all intriguing and believable. The romance department was a little lacking, it wasn't well developed and the love interest didn't hold any appeal to me. I would liked to see a more of a scandalous romance :P However, The Unidentified ( who shall not be named) were brilliant, loved them. They were your ideal ' rebels'.
Overall, I really enjoyed the novel but could see spots of improvement here and there. It's really hard to pick out specific good parts since I really just enjoyed the novel as a whole. Picking it apart just ruins it. I would definitely recommend you guys to read it though, it's a fresh take on teenagers, controlling societies and life in gene real, this is really what being a teenager is all about. So we can add educational to the list of good things! Highly original, clever, witty and educational!
Rating - 4/5
Badass Bookie xx
(Goodreads) Fifteen-year-old Katey, aka Kid, goes to school in the Game—a ‘school’ run by corporate sponsors. Social networking is as natural as breathing, your online profile is everything, and striving to get ahead in the popularity stakes involves a careful navigation that could go wrong at any turn.
The corporations watch the students to spot the next trend and the kids vie with each other to be noticed and sponsored by the corporations. Being ’branded’ means celebrity status, not to mention financial freedom.
But what kind of freedom is it when you’re always being watched? And how important is it to be the coolest and most popular kid when your identity is owned by a corporation? When Kid witnesses a mock suicide staged by an anonymous group calling itself the Unidentified she begins to ask herself those questions.
The Short Story ? - A clever and well-written debut! A wonderful and well portrayed dystopian society, based on the influence of pop culture and teenagers. Clever, witty and insightful. A psychological novel about teenagers, their influences and what freedom is to them!
The Long Story ? - Okay, the short story was really hard to write because it's so hard to sum up this novel in three sentences! I'm still a little unsure about what to think of it. I enjoyed it, it was highly original and Rae has teenagers down pact. She pretty much summed up teenagers in and out in this amazing debut. Okay, let's break it up.
I really like the whole dystopian society that Rae has built. It was highly original and a society I actually wouldn't mind being part of. Basically the government has converted shopping malls into Game Centres ( aka school) where kids spend all day doing things they love and trying to rise in popularity. If you get sponsored then you're pretty much a celebrity and social networking is the key to success. It's a shallow society and pretty much sums up the life of teenagers.
The plot was confusing at times but it's not because it wasn't well-written more like it was too complex, I never fully understood how this society worked and some parts of the novel required a little re-reading. More than anything I felt that even though I really enjoyed it, I felt it was still a little lacking. I kind of finished the novel like 'great novel, loved it but...what exactly did I love?'. It's one of those novels that you just can't pick out what parts you like. It's a love it or hate it novel. It's also rather slow paced but it flows nicely, not a long novel either, you could easily finish it in one to two days.
I liked the characters, Kid was your stereotypical social outcast. I really liked her, she was shy, quiet but had punch to her as well, there were times where I wanted to shake her and say ' WHAT ARE YOU DOING' but for the most part, she's a smart cookie :P The minor characters were all intriguing and believable. The romance department was a little lacking, it wasn't well developed and the love interest didn't hold any appeal to me. I would liked to see a more of a scandalous romance :P However, The Unidentified ( who shall not be named) were brilliant, loved them. They were your ideal ' rebels'.
Overall, I really enjoyed the novel but could see spots of improvement here and there. It's really hard to pick out specific good parts since I really just enjoyed the novel as a whole. Picking it apart just ruins it. I would definitely recommend you guys to read it though, it's a fresh take on teenagers, controlling societies and life in gene real, this is really what being a teenager is all about. So we can add educational to the list of good things! Highly original, clever, witty and educational!
Rating - 4/5
Badass Bookie xx
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Darkest Mercy ( Spoiler -Free!)
Review Time! Darkest Mercy is the fifth and final book in the Wicked Lovely series written by Melissa Marr. If you haven't read the series, you're lacking a proper paranormal romance education. It's a series every reader should read :) Big thank-you to Harpercollins for the review copy, your guys are the best!
(Goodreads) The Summer King is missing; the Dark Court is bleeding; and a stranger walks the streets of Huntsdale, his presence signifying the deaths of powerful fey. Aislinn tends to the Summer Court, searching for her absent king and yearning for Seth. Torn between his new queen and his old love, Keenan works from afar to strengthen his court against the coming war. Donia longs for fiery passion even as she coolly readies the Winter Court for battle. And Seth, sworn brother of the Dark King and heir to the High Queen, is about to make a mistake that could cost his life. Love, despair, and betrayal ignite the Faery Courts, and in the final conflict, some will win . . . and some will lose everything.
The Short Story ? - An epic finale to a brilliant series! Heart-stopping romance, non-stop action and a dark and captivating plot! I couldn't have imagined a better ending! All the loose threads from the previous novels were finally tied together and I going to miss these brilliant characters and this wonderful world the Melissa has created! A phenomenal conclusion to one of the best paranormals out there!
The Long Story ? - It's a weird series. It's very clever how Marr wrote it and can I just say the five is a weird number to end on? Is it just me? It's not three and it's not an even number. Anyway, the series is written so that each novel follows the individual stories of different characters, it's like sharing the spotlight. However while each book has it's own characters with it's own issue, all the issues are based around this one BIG idea. SO they're all connected but they loose threads that all become tied together in this epic ending, Darkest Mercy is THE END.
Putting it out there - the plot was EPIC. My favourite part of the whole novel, it was brilliant. Best part - everyone gets their own little happy ending! That's right, did I mention there's like a love triangle ( or a few)? I salute you, Marr, for your ability to give everyone a happy ending without introducing babies for character's to fall in love with. Epic and not creepy at all! It was clever how Marr captivates our attention, the plot is layered. We're drawn in by all this action and tension and just as we're thinking 'boring, this is getting old' something else happens and we're thinking 'ohhh, hang on, it's only just getting interesting. Before you know there's no more pages to turn! A page-turner, fast-paced, dark, suspenseful and mysterious...it's wicked :P
Characters are brilliant as always. By the time you read Darkest Mercy, you're pretty familiar with the crew. You have your favourites and you know who to hate. I was really drawn into the development of relationships between the characters. Marr has portrayed her characters to be dark, scary, enticing and dangerous. These faeries are mean and manipulative but in Darkest Mercy, we see the better side of them. They are capable of "mercy" and they are rational and they do care for each other. Lots of love going on in this novel whether it's a romance, a bromance or what do you call the "mance" between parent and child?
Lastly, Marr you are a brilliant writer. Secretly I think you're a faerie, the way you write is ...inhuman. Very distinctive YA voice, it's mature and sounds old yet young at the same time ( another reason I think you're a faerie). Very unique writing style and the flow of words suggest something dark and sinister ( are you sure you're not a faerie?). Marr definitely has an original writing style!
Bottom line, I'm lost! I've just finished reading this phenomenal, dark and twisted paranormal series. It's engrossing, captivating, enticing. It's brilliant, amazing, beautifully written. It's dark, sinister, edgy and dangerous. It's a 5/5 for me! BUT, what am I to read now? Melissa Marr, I can't wait to see what you have planned for us next! If you haven't read The Wicked Lovely series, um, you're lacking a proper education!
Rating - 5/5
Badass Bookie xx
(Goodreads) The Summer King is missing; the Dark Court is bleeding; and a stranger walks the streets of Huntsdale, his presence signifying the deaths of powerful fey. Aislinn tends to the Summer Court, searching for her absent king and yearning for Seth. Torn between his new queen and his old love, Keenan works from afar to strengthen his court against the coming war. Donia longs for fiery passion even as she coolly readies the Winter Court for battle. And Seth, sworn brother of the Dark King and heir to the High Queen, is about to make a mistake that could cost his life. Love, despair, and betrayal ignite the Faery Courts, and in the final conflict, some will win . . . and some will lose everything.
The Short Story ? - An epic finale to a brilliant series! Heart-stopping romance, non-stop action and a dark and captivating plot! I couldn't have imagined a better ending! All the loose threads from the previous novels were finally tied together and I going to miss these brilliant characters and this wonderful world the Melissa has created! A phenomenal conclusion to one of the best paranormals out there!
The Long Story ? - It's a weird series. It's very clever how Marr wrote it and can I just say the five is a weird number to end on? Is it just me? It's not three and it's not an even number. Anyway, the series is written so that each novel follows the individual stories of different characters, it's like sharing the spotlight. However while each book has it's own characters with it's own issue, all the issues are based around this one BIG idea. SO they're all connected but they loose threads that all become tied together in this epic ending, Darkest Mercy is THE END.
Putting it out there - the plot was EPIC. My favourite part of the whole novel, it was brilliant. Best part - everyone gets their own little happy ending! That's right, did I mention there's like a love triangle ( or a few)? I salute you, Marr, for your ability to give everyone a happy ending without introducing babies for character's to fall in love with. Epic and not creepy at all! It was clever how Marr captivates our attention, the plot is layered. We're drawn in by all this action and tension and just as we're thinking 'boring, this is getting old' something else happens and we're thinking 'ohhh, hang on, it's only just getting interesting. Before you know there's no more pages to turn! A page-turner, fast-paced, dark, suspenseful and mysterious...it's wicked :P
Characters are brilliant as always. By the time you read Darkest Mercy, you're pretty familiar with the crew. You have your favourites and you know who to hate. I was really drawn into the development of relationships between the characters. Marr has portrayed her characters to be dark, scary, enticing and dangerous. These faeries are mean and manipulative but in Darkest Mercy, we see the better side of them. They are capable of "mercy" and they are rational and they do care for each other. Lots of love going on in this novel whether it's a romance, a bromance or what do you call the "mance" between parent and child?
Lastly, Marr you are a brilliant writer. Secretly I think you're a faerie, the way you write is ...inhuman. Very distinctive YA voice, it's mature and sounds old yet young at the same time ( another reason I think you're a faerie). Very unique writing style and the flow of words suggest something dark and sinister ( are you sure you're not a faerie?). Marr definitely has an original writing style!
Bottom line, I'm lost! I've just finished reading this phenomenal, dark and twisted paranormal series. It's engrossing, captivating, enticing. It's brilliant, amazing, beautifully written. It's dark, sinister, edgy and dangerous. It's a 5/5 for me! BUT, what am I to read now? Melissa Marr, I can't wait to see what you have planned for us next! If you haven't read The Wicked Lovely series, um, you're lacking a proper education!
Rating - 5/5
Badass Bookie xx
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Feast of Fools ( Spoiler Free!)
Review Time! I met Rachel Caine a few while back when she flew all the way to Australia for her Bite Tour! Penguin not only invited me to a lovely breakfast with her but provided me with copies of every book in the Morganville series up to date! So I would like to thank Penguin for the review copy!
(Goodreads) The wait is over. dig into the feast...
In the town of Morganville, vampires and humans live in relative peace. Student Claire Danvers has never been convinced, though especially with the arrival of Mr. Bishop, an ancient, old-school vampire who cares nothing about harmony. What he wants from the town's living and its dead is unthinkably sinister. It's only at a formal ball, attended by vampires and their human dates, that Claire realizes the elaborately evil trap he's set for Morganville.
The Short Story ? - My favourite book in the series so far! The arrival of Mr. Bishop has stirred up some chaos in the quiet town of Morganville. Lot's of action and romantic tension between our favourite couples. Gripping plot with non-stop action, Dark secrets to be revealed and again, another fantastic installment in an awesome vampire series!
The Long Story ? - I love reading novels full of action and romance and for the most part, it's hard to get the best of both worlds. I end up with either a novel with lot's of romance and little romance or a novel with fantastic romance with little action. What I loved about Feast of Fools is that it was both action-packed and romantic :P
We quite a bit of development in relationships between the characters. Shane and Claire are as cute as ever, lots romance between the two and they've definitely grown alot closer since we were first introduced to them, for one, Shane is not denying his feelings for Claire anymore. Claire and Amelie have grown closer as well, I do think that Amelie has started to care for Claire which is nice and Eve and Michael are just ...together. In all even with the town in chaos, love never fails.
The highlight of Feast of Fools would be the brilliant plot. Unlike the first three novels, the plot is based around Morganville itself because of the arrival of Mr. Bishop which is Amelie's father. I have to say I prefer this kind of plot to the usual Claire based plot. It's alot more exciting as there is alot more is at stake :P ( pun intended). There's plenty of action and I was blown away by Rachel's creativity, I don't know how she comes up with half of all these things! Most interesting plot up to date, beautifully written and not a boring moment!
If you haven't read The Morganville Vampires yet, I strongly urge you to pick up a copy! It's not like any other vampire series I have read. Extremely engrossing and captivating, it's definitely a OSR ( one-sitting-read). It's a novel to be enjoyed by all readers of all ages!
Rating - 5/5
Badass Bookie xx
(Goodreads) The wait is over. dig into the feast...
In the town of Morganville, vampires and humans live in relative peace. Student Claire Danvers has never been convinced, though especially with the arrival of Mr. Bishop, an ancient, old-school vampire who cares nothing about harmony. What he wants from the town's living and its dead is unthinkably sinister. It's only at a formal ball, attended by vampires and their human dates, that Claire realizes the elaborately evil trap he's set for Morganville.
The Short Story ? - My favourite book in the series so far! The arrival of Mr. Bishop has stirred up some chaos in the quiet town of Morganville. Lot's of action and romantic tension between our favourite couples. Gripping plot with non-stop action, Dark secrets to be revealed and again, another fantastic installment in an awesome vampire series!
The Long Story ? - I love reading novels full of action and romance and for the most part, it's hard to get the best of both worlds. I end up with either a novel with lot's of romance and little romance or a novel with fantastic romance with little action. What I loved about Feast of Fools is that it was both action-packed and romantic :P
We quite a bit of development in relationships between the characters. Shane and Claire are as cute as ever, lots romance between the two and they've definitely grown alot closer since we were first introduced to them, for one, Shane is not denying his feelings for Claire anymore. Claire and Amelie have grown closer as well, I do think that Amelie has started to care for Claire which is nice and Eve and Michael are just ...together. In all even with the town in chaos, love never fails.
The highlight of Feast of Fools would be the brilliant plot. Unlike the first three novels, the plot is based around Morganville itself because of the arrival of Mr. Bishop which is Amelie's father. I have to say I prefer this kind of plot to the usual Claire based plot. It's alot more exciting as there is alot more is at stake :P ( pun intended). There's plenty of action and I was blown away by Rachel's creativity, I don't know how she comes up with half of all these things! Most interesting plot up to date, beautifully written and not a boring moment!
If you haven't read The Morganville Vampires yet, I strongly urge you to pick up a copy! It's not like any other vampire series I have read. Extremely engrossing and captivating, it's definitely a OSR ( one-sitting-read). It's a novel to be enjoyed by all readers of all ages!
Rating - 5/5
Badass Bookie xx
Friday, June 10, 2011
Angelfire
Review Time! Angelfire written by Courtney Alison Moulton is a 2011 YA Debut, that I've been dying to read! I read it a few weeks ago but I'm lazy and slack and haven't bothered to review it til now :P I would like to thank Shannon @ Stalking in Bookshelves for sending me a lovely hard covered copy for April RAK! Oh! And counting this towards my Bucket List Challenge.
(Goodreads) When seventeen-year-old Ellie starts seeing reapers - monstrous creatures who devour humans and send their souls to Hell - she finds herself on the front lines of a supernatural war between archangels and the Fallen and faced with the possible destruction of her soul.
A mysterious boy named Will reveals she is the reincarnation of an ancient warrior, the only one capable of wielding swords of angelfire to fight the reapers, and he is an immortal sworn to protect her in battle. Now that Ellie's powers have been awakened, a powerful reaper called Bastian has come forward to challenge her. He has employed a fierce assassin to eliminate her - an assassin who has already killed her once.
While balancing her dwindling social life and reaper-hunting duties, she and Will discover Bastian is searching for a dormant creature believed to be a true soul reaper. Bastian plans to use this weapon to ignite the End of Days and to destroy Ellie's soul, ending her rebirth cycle forever. Now, she must face an army of Bastian's most frightening reapers, prevent the soul reaper from consuming her soul, and uncover the secrets of her past lives - including truths that may be too frightening to remember.
The Short Story ? - A fantastic debut! Fast-paced and action-packed, one of the most adventurous novels I have read! Brilliant characters, gripping plot and beautifully written. Angelfire is a paranormal debut you wouldn't want to miss! Looking for a summer read? You found one!
The Long Story ? - I was absolutely thrilled to find this book waiting for me on my doorstep, it's one of the debuts that I've had my eyes on for a long time. I initially heard about this novel from Kristi @ The Story Siren who plans the 2011 Debut Author challenge. Thanks again to Shannon for the RAK ;)
The plot would probably be the highlight for me. It was a rather slow start but for the novel to flow well and for readers to understand what's going on, it was necessary. I sometimes feel that paranormals are the hardest books to write because not only do you have to tell a story but you have to explain the story behind the story as well. In this case, the story behind the story was told at the start. So after we all warmed up to the idea of Angels and Demons, we're pretty much taken on a roller coaster ride. Non.Stop.Action. I was literally sitting on the edge of my seat! Lot's of action, lot's of fighting and lots of romance! You'll never get bored with this one!
The characterisation very well-developed. Our protagonist, Ellie, was badass enough to be my sister! On a emotional level I can really understand some of the stress and pain Ellie goes through as she decides between wanting a normal life and saving the world from evil, she's a strong heroine that I've grown to admire. Will, her smexy guardian is exactly that, sexy as hell! He's got the protective streak down pact as well as the good looks, hopefully we get to see more of Ellie and Will's blossoming romance in the sequel ( Wings of the Wicked)
Overall, Angelfire is an extraordinary debut that I would strongly recommend to lovers of action and paranormal. Even if you don't normally read paranormal, I encourage to check this one out! I prefer to read paranormal romance that's more romance than paranormal but this action-save the world stuff is really great too! Kick-ass plot, fantastic characters and beautifully written!
Rating - 4/5 ( I would have like to see a little more romance, personal thing so don't let it stop you from reading this awesome debut!)
Badass Bookie xx
(Goodreads) When seventeen-year-old Ellie starts seeing reapers - monstrous creatures who devour humans and send their souls to Hell - she finds herself on the front lines of a supernatural war between archangels and the Fallen and faced with the possible destruction of her soul.
A mysterious boy named Will reveals she is the reincarnation of an ancient warrior, the only one capable of wielding swords of angelfire to fight the reapers, and he is an immortal sworn to protect her in battle. Now that Ellie's powers have been awakened, a powerful reaper called Bastian has come forward to challenge her. He has employed a fierce assassin to eliminate her - an assassin who has already killed her once.
While balancing her dwindling social life and reaper-hunting duties, she and Will discover Bastian is searching for a dormant creature believed to be a true soul reaper. Bastian plans to use this weapon to ignite the End of Days and to destroy Ellie's soul, ending her rebirth cycle forever. Now, she must face an army of Bastian's most frightening reapers, prevent the soul reaper from consuming her soul, and uncover the secrets of her past lives - including truths that may be too frightening to remember.
The Short Story ? - A fantastic debut! Fast-paced and action-packed, one of the most adventurous novels I have read! Brilliant characters, gripping plot and beautifully written. Angelfire is a paranormal debut you wouldn't want to miss! Looking for a summer read? You found one!
The Long Story ? - I was absolutely thrilled to find this book waiting for me on my doorstep, it's one of the debuts that I've had my eyes on for a long time. I initially heard about this novel from Kristi @ The Story Siren who plans the 2011 Debut Author challenge. Thanks again to Shannon for the RAK ;)
The plot would probably be the highlight for me. It was a rather slow start but for the novel to flow well and for readers to understand what's going on, it was necessary. I sometimes feel that paranormals are the hardest books to write because not only do you have to tell a story but you have to explain the story behind the story as well. In this case, the story behind the story was told at the start. So after we all warmed up to the idea of Angels and Demons, we're pretty much taken on a roller coaster ride. Non.Stop.Action. I was literally sitting on the edge of my seat! Lot's of action, lot's of fighting and lots of romance! You'll never get bored with this one!
The characterisation very well-developed. Our protagonist, Ellie, was badass enough to be my sister! On a emotional level I can really understand some of the stress and pain Ellie goes through as she decides between wanting a normal life and saving the world from evil, she's a strong heroine that I've grown to admire. Will, her smexy guardian is exactly that, sexy as hell! He's got the protective streak down pact as well as the good looks, hopefully we get to see more of Ellie and Will's blossoming romance in the sequel ( Wings of the Wicked)
Overall, Angelfire is an extraordinary debut that I would strongly recommend to lovers of action and paranormal. Even if you don't normally read paranormal, I encourage to check this one out! I prefer to read paranormal romance that's more romance than paranormal but this action-save the world stuff is really great too! Kick-ass plot, fantastic characters and beautifully written!
Rating - 4/5 ( I would have like to see a little more romance, personal thing so don't let it stop you from reading this awesome debut!)
Badass Bookie xx
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Breakfast with the Bookie - Bookie’s Ultimate Pet Peeve: Greedy, Jealous Bloggers
Breakfast with the Bookie is a “regular feature here at Badass Bookie taking place every Wednesday. It’s a discussion that you can read along with your morning cup of coffee! I haven’t done one of these in a while, sorry! Life’s gotten in the way but they should be back now!
This Week’s Topic – Bookie’s Ultimate Pet Peeve: Greedy, Jealous Bloggers
I’m fairly tolerant about most things but I can’t stand greedy, jealous bloggers. It’s my ultimate pet peeve, usually I like to keep quiet about my negative opinions because the blogging community is really great and I’ve made some really friends in this community but this is really getting on my nerves.
What’s a greedy, jealous blogger?
1) Review Copies: Requesting More than You can Review – This really gets on my nerve, bloggers who request dozens of review copies when they only review one book every few weeks or so. I feel bad for Kristi over at The Story Siren, some authors and bloggers had some really mean things to say to her about In My Mailbox, according to them it’s just some feature where bloggers flaunt all their books (“oh look my review pile is bigger than yours”). What started as a good intention is now being looked down on because some bloggers are really taking it as an opportunity to show off their review pile. Worse, sometimes when I look at their IMM even I feel like they’re trying to flaunt their review pile because I follow their blogs and know that they can’t possibly review every one of those books before they put more requests in. I request novels from publishers but I really do make an effort to try read and review every one of those before I start requesting again. Unsolicited copies or accepted? Fine, no problem but it’s really disappointing to see bloggers request a load of copies and review maybe two of them before they request more.
2) Asking for Other Bloggers Publishing Contacts … in Public – Really guys? Where is your pride? No offence but it makes you sound jealous and desperate. Even if you were to ask for their publishing contacts at least have the pride and decency to send them an email and ask politely, maybe a ‘Hi, I noticed you review for so and so, do you know how I can contact them?’, over a social networking system or worse, through a IMM post is really embarrassing and sad. I really don’t think publisher want us passing their emails around between ourselves. I don’t mind sharing my contacts privately, that’s what friends are for right? But don’t do it in public, it just gets on my nerves and quite frankly puts me in a difficult spot because I don’t want to seem like a bitch and not pass them on but it’s really uncomfortable for me. I’m sure this applies to other bloggers as well. If you are going to ask for publishing contacts do it privately. I’m really big on manners and social etiquette and this is really something I frown upon.
3) Line cutting, taking more than one copy etc. at Book Events – Not something I can relate to personally since Australia has about zero Book Events but I have been reading BEA recounts recently and some of the things bloggers have been saying really make me glad I didn’t go. Lots of talk about bitching and line cutting, even read one incident about some assholes that made a girl cry when she told them not to cut in line. Making someone cry is really low, where are your manners? Another thing, taking duplicates of a book, I asked one of my blogger friends if she could get this one books I really, really wanted to read that didn’t happen to be released in Australia and she said sorry, but no. I told her I totally understand, it was worth a try :P but being big on manners, I understand getting duplicates can give you a bad name. Even if you think no one notices you sneaking two copies, think again. Bloggers are very observant.
I’m not trying to single anybody out or be negative through this post but I’m just trying to get people to understand what gets on my nerves and why. I’m sure everyone has their own pet peeves but this just happens to be mine. Please don’t run away, I’m really a nice person Your turn : Do you agree/disagree? What are your pet peeves?
Badass Bookie xx
This Week’s Topic – Bookie’s Ultimate Pet Peeve: Greedy, Jealous Bloggers
I’m fairly tolerant about most things but I can’t stand greedy, jealous bloggers. It’s my ultimate pet peeve, usually I like to keep quiet about my negative opinions because the blogging community is really great and I’ve made some really friends in this community but this is really getting on my nerves.
What’s a greedy, jealous blogger?
1) Review Copies: Requesting More than You can Review – This really gets on my nerve, bloggers who request dozens of review copies when they only review one book every few weeks or so. I feel bad for Kristi over at The Story Siren, some authors and bloggers had some really mean things to say to her about In My Mailbox, according to them it’s just some feature where bloggers flaunt all their books (“oh look my review pile is bigger than yours”). What started as a good intention is now being looked down on because some bloggers are really taking it as an opportunity to show off their review pile. Worse, sometimes when I look at their IMM even I feel like they’re trying to flaunt their review pile because I follow their blogs and know that they can’t possibly review every one of those books before they put more requests in. I request novels from publishers but I really do make an effort to try read and review every one of those before I start requesting again. Unsolicited copies or accepted? Fine, no problem but it’s really disappointing to see bloggers request a load of copies and review maybe two of them before they request more.
2) Asking for Other Bloggers Publishing Contacts … in Public – Really guys? Where is your pride? No offence but it makes you sound jealous and desperate. Even if you were to ask for their publishing contacts at least have the pride and decency to send them an email and ask politely, maybe a ‘Hi, I noticed you review for so and so, do you know how I can contact them?’, over a social networking system or worse, through a IMM post is really embarrassing and sad. I really don’t think publisher want us passing their emails around between ourselves. I don’t mind sharing my contacts privately, that’s what friends are for right? But don’t do it in public, it just gets on my nerves and quite frankly puts me in a difficult spot because I don’t want to seem like a bitch and not pass them on but it’s really uncomfortable for me. I’m sure this applies to other bloggers as well. If you are going to ask for publishing contacts do it privately. I’m really big on manners and social etiquette and this is really something I frown upon.
3) Line cutting, taking more than one copy etc. at Book Events – Not something I can relate to personally since Australia has about zero Book Events but I have been reading BEA recounts recently and some of the things bloggers have been saying really make me glad I didn’t go. Lots of talk about bitching and line cutting, even read one incident about some assholes that made a girl cry when she told them not to cut in line. Making someone cry is really low, where are your manners? Another thing, taking duplicates of a book, I asked one of my blogger friends if she could get this one books I really, really wanted to read that didn’t happen to be released in Australia and she said sorry, but no. I told her I totally understand, it was worth a try :P but being big on manners, I understand getting duplicates can give you a bad name. Even if you think no one notices you sneaking two copies, think again. Bloggers are very observant.
I’m not trying to single anybody out or be negative through this post but I’m just trying to get people to understand what gets on my nerves and why. I’m sure everyone has their own pet peeves but this just happens to be mine. Please don’t run away, I’m really a nice person Your turn : Do you agree/disagree? What are your pet peeves?
Badass Bookie xx
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