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Thursday, May 31, 2012

Question of the Moment 77

Have you ever had a moment while reading where you think what the character is or is about to do is dumb and you just want to yell at them? Have you ever actually yelled at the book?

I have definitely had a few of these moments. Its like a scary movie where someone hear's a bump in the basement after a bunch of other creepy things happen and the character is like "I think i should go check that out alone instead of just getting out of this house." You just want to yell at them "HES DOWN THERE, RUN!!" I know they don't listen, but i still end up yelling lol. And yes, i have actually yelled at a few books for doing dumb things. An example from the book ill be reviewing tomorrow is she sees a car pull up by her and instead of just trying to run and scream she wants to try and fight back. This isn't the time for showing up, just save your self lmao.

Have you ever been angry with a characters decisions? Let me know in the comments below =]

Question of the Moment 76

Have you ever stumbled across an amazing book or series by chance? Tell me what book or series and your story behind it =D

I am done this lots of times by being at the library and just being like "...ok fine ill try this book" or being at the book store for my birthday and saying "Since, its not my money i don't feel guilty for buying this whole series i've never read/heard anything about". One examples of this is the Blue Bloods Series By Melissa De La Cruz. I read the blurb on the back of the first book once one day while at Target and was like "hmm... this sounds interesting" but none of my friends had read them, i didn't hear anything from the web or on TV about them and from the blurb it seemed like a typical vampire book. Well, for my birthday my dad took me to target said here is your budget, GO (dangerous) and i went straight for those books and bought all three that were already out. It was risky, but i just went with my gut and now she's my favorite author in the entire world and im so happy i did it.

What is your surprisingly good book story? Let me know in the comments below =]

BBReview: "Bonds of Fenris" By S.J. Bell

Genre: Young Adult -Paranormal
Publishing Date: May 7th, 2012
Page Count: 226
Source: Sent to me by the author
Format: E-Book

Description from Goodreads.com:
Talia Thornwood's life ended one year ago, when she became a werewolf. She survived the attack, and the horrifying transformation a month later, but the life she has now is barely worth living. She lurks about in a filthy, run-down house, with too many werewolves crammed into too small a space. Every day is a struggle against the stress of human contact, the romantic prodding of her obnoxious packmate Pierce, and the gnawing hunger for flesh in her soul.

She's all but resigned herself to a dreary existence on the margins of society when she meets Corwin. Corwin is a werewolf like no other. He walks among humans as if it was nothing, and can keep his wolf under control even when the moon if full. Talia's mind is suddenly opened to the possibilities before her, and the realization of how little she really knows about lycanthropy.

Corwin claims that he can teach her how to cope as he does, even how to transcend her affliction. But it will not be easy. It is a hard education that requires her to question everything her pack taught her, and confront exactly what she has become. And, more amazingly, what she never stopped being.

Review:
Bonds of Fenris is not exactly your typical werewolf novel. There are werewolves and there is romance, but that isn't what it is about. The romance and paranormal-ness isn't what the main focus of this novel is about. The main topic of this novel is self-knowledge and self-acceptance. It is basically like a coming of age story. There are a few dark themes to this novel, because there are some dark events that happened in the characters lives that they must get through in order to grow. Not only are these young adults paranormal, but they all have things that they need from others and/or must come to terms with before they can accept their new lives and learn to better themselves.

It's a novel about opening up, forgiving and forgetting the past, learning who you are, and learning how to accept who you are. Talia has an amazing group of friends as pack mates and she is very lucky to have these people in her lives, but she and they don't know how lucky they are until their lives start to crumble. That is when Corwin comes in to try and help. He helps them accept who they are learn how to deal with controlling their beastly halves. You will learn a lot about the characters in S.J. Bells novel about what happened to make them who they are, and you will learn how to accept yourself. it is a very beautiful novel.

I loved all of the characters in this novel. At first i didn't like Pierce, but after i learned who he really was i started looking at him differently and he grew on me. Talia was flip floppy with me. I really liked her, but then at times i didn't especially when she acted too shy to go after what she wants or acted like she had no clue what she wanted or needed. You definitely feel a lot the emotions coming off the characters when you read it, which i really loved. I also loved the dark themes that took place, because it made it feel much more real instead of just fantasy.

Overall:
I really liked Bonds of Fenris. It is very different from common werewolf novels, because not only is it a romance but it is a coming of age story. It is a story about learning who you are and how to accept yourself. It is a very beautiful story and definitely has darker themes to it, but those made it feel real as if it was happening in real life. I loved the characters that S.J. Bell created and i loved how you could feel the characters emotions along with them. Very good story!

Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ 4/5

*Cover photo and description are from Goodreads.com. both have been linked to their goodreads page where information was obtained. This novel was sent to me by the author in exchange for an honest review*

Question of the Moment 75

If you became a paranormal would you search for a cure or would you just live with it?

I think if i became a paranormal that killed things with out control then yes, i would look for a cure, but if i could control it or didn't have to kill things then i would just live with it, because it. would. be. AWESOME!! If it was bad for me i would look for help, but if i was just some badass paranormal then i would definitely leave it be, because i would LOVE to be paranormal. I love all things paranormal and envy the characters in books that have abilities. They are so cool.

So, would you want to cure it? Let me know in the comments below =]

Wednesday, May 30, 2012

BBReview: "Reflections Series 2: Broken" By Dean Murray

Genre: Young Adult -Paranormal
Publishing Date: December 25th, 2011
Page Count: 341
Source: Sent to me by the author
Format: E-Book

Description from Goodreads.com:
Adri Paige is too busy dealing with the emotional fallout from losing half of her family to deal with boys. At least she thought so until the two most intriguing guys in her new school take an interest in her.

Both boys are gorgeous and blessed with obscene amounts of money. They should have the emotional depth of note cards, but instead display undercurrents she doesn't fully understand. Rumors the pair destroys peoples' livelihoods seem ludicrous until she gets caught in the crossfire and her family almost loses their home. She's increasingly unsure either boy is really human, and their rivalry is rapidly turning deadly.

Review:
I must say that i was very blow away with Broken. I realize that usually with a series the second book either gets the exact same rating or lower, but this one is actually getting higher. I know that is probably confusing since they are essentially the exact same story, but told in different point of views, but the only reason Torn didn't get five stars was because even though i really liked it something was just missing and Broken was what was missing. I also feel like i identified more with Broken since it is told in a female POV.

Even though i identified more and like Broken a little more than Torn i do not recommend reading Broken first and then reading Torn. When Dean Murray, the author, first contacted me about reading and reviewing these novels he did say you could read them in either order, because they are the same story just with different point of views, but i stuck to the original order (first Torn then Broken) and i honestly think that is the only way to read it, because all of the suspense and questioning of not knowing what Adri's true purpose of being there would be gone. It would ruin the story, in my opinion, so don't wander down that path lol.

Adri's story is wonderful and brings so much insight to the story. I loved it so much and just brought Torn more to life. I honestly wish that more authors would add an extra book to their series giving another persons point of view on the story, because it just gives everything a better outlook and makes the story more whole.

Overall:
I loved Broken. It was a very beautiful story and definitely brought the original story we were introduced to in Torn more to life. It erased any lingering questions and cleared up any of the fuzziness left from the first novel. I really identified with Adri and her point of view and i really wish more authors would bring in other characters point of views into their stories, it just makes everything full circle and more complete. Although, usually the second book in a series gets a lower rating than the first, Broken is actually getting higher, but only because when i read Torn i loved it, but i just felt something was missing and this was it. Very, very good series and i can't wait to read the next one!

Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ 5/5

*Book image and description are from Goodreads.com. The image and description are linked to web page. This novel was sent to me by the author for an honest review*

Tuesday, May 29, 2012

Question of the Moment 74

Do you like reading Male MC's or Female MC's point of views better, and Why? (MC = Main Character)

I, personally, like reading female MC's point of views better, because well i am a girl and can relate better to those sides. I can easily point out what emotions are being displayed and can easily understand the true meaning behind them. For example when a girl flips out on a guy in a book i can easily tell if she is mad at the current situation or is just going off on them, because something behind the scenes is going on that they haven't expressed and are bottling it up. With a male MC i can tell those things as easily. Sometimes an author has to literally spell it out for me to understand their emotions. (pun intended) I do appreciate reading a guys perspective, because it sheds new light on things and its interesting to read those point of views (cause its like spying on a guys brian) but i do understand girls better.

Which do you prefer and why? Let me know in the comments below =]

BBReview: "Reflections Series 1: Torn" By Dean Murray

Genre: Young Adult -Paranormal
Publishing Date: October 17th, 2011
Page Count: 205
Source: Sent to me by the author
Format: E-Book

Descriptions from Goodreads.com:
Shape shifter Alec Graves has spent nearly a decade trying to keep his family from being drawn into open warfare with a larger pack. The new girl at school shouldn't matter, but the more he gets to know her, the more mysterious she becomes. Worse, she seems to know things she shouldn't about his shadowy world.

Is she an unfortunate victim or bait designed to draw him into a fatal misstep? If she's victim, then he's running out of time to save her. If she's bait, then his attraction to her will pull him into a fight that'll cost him everything.

Review:
Torn is exactly what the description describes and i couldn't be more pleased. I am used to reading about female point of views, and reading Alec's point of view was very refreshing and different. Instead of reading about body/beauty image and romance it was more about "manliness" and power. It stayed focused on maintaining order and protecting the pack, while also giving an insider view of what goes on in a boys head. It definitely touched base on romance, but in a males point of view. It wasn't puppy love, or love at first sight, it was apprehensive, shy, confusing love and i loved it!

I really enjoyed that the emotions all felt real and didn't feel like the author didn't really know what they were talking about (hopefully this would be so since the author is a male lol). Alec's character cares about honoring his fathers legacy, protecting his friends and family, and making sure that everything he did was for the right reasons and for the good of the pack. He was never selfish, until the new girl gets to town, and even then he feels guilty for it and doesn't want to be selfish. He  never thinks of himself.

I especially loved that like the description of the book says that there was suspense. You never know until the end what the new girl, Adri's, intentions are. The entire time Alec goes back and forth between her being innocent, to her being a threat every time a new piece of evidence comes to the surface. As soon as you are convinced of her being one thing, its turned around again. I really can't wait what the next two installments will bring to the story, because the second is the same story, but told in Adri's perspective and the third is an addition to the story.

Overall:
Really, really good story! It is very interesting when you get to read a novel told in the opposite sexes point of view. You almost feel like a fly on the wall. I really loved Alec's unselfish character who always thought everything through, and only based decision on the good of the entire pack. Torn is full of suspense on what will happen next with the new girl and what her true intentions are for being in their town. I loved every second of it and can't wait to read the other two novels from the series. Dean Murray did fantastic with this story and it couldn't have been better!

Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ 4.75/5

*Book image and description are from Goodreads.com. The image and description are linked to web page. This novel was sent to me by the author for an honest review*

Monday, May 28, 2012

Question of the Moment 73

When a male falls in love do you think they truly have some of those same "butterfly" feelings like a female has or do you think it is all just a woman's fantasy for that to be true?

I think they do. I think females butterflies are more erratic, and males are still flapping away but not as crazy (only cause females tend to be more emotional than males). At least, i really hope that it catches them off guards sweeps them off their feet. A lot of males act macho and act like love doesn't phase them, but i think it really does and they just don't want the female to see that. The novel i review tomorrow is told in a males point of view and there are definitely some sappy parts and butterflies, and since it is written by a man i am hoping those emotions are real and not just to make girls swoon lol.

What do you think? Do you think guys get love sick just as much as girls do? Let me know in the comments below =]

Sunday, May 27, 2012

BBReview: "The Car Thief" By Theodore Weesner

Genre: Fiction - Contemporary
Publishing Date: May 1st, 2012
Page Count: 384
Source: Sent to me by the senior publicist
Format: E-Book

Description of the book (From the Senior Publicist):
It's 1959. Sixteen year-old Alex Housman has just stolen his fourteenth car and frankly doesn't know why. His divorced, working class father grinds out the night shift at the local Chevy Plant in Detroit, kept afloat by the flask in his glove compartment and the open bottles of booze in his Flint, Michigan home.

Abandoned and alone, father and son struggle to express a deep love for each other, even as Alex fills his day juggling cheap thrills and a crushing depression. He cruises and steals, running from, and to, the polic, compelled by reasons he frustratingly can't put into words. And then there's Irene Shaeffer, the pretty girl in school whose admiration Alex needs like a drug in order to get by. Broke and fighting to survive, Alex and his father face the realities of estrangement, incarceration, and even violence as their lives hurtle toward the climatic episode that a New York Times reviewer called "one of the most profoundly powerful in American fiction."

In this rich, beautifully crafted story, Weesner accomplishes a rare feat: He's written a transcendent piece of literature in deceptively plain language, painting a gripping portait of a father and a son, otherwise invisible among the mundane, everyday details of life in blue collar America.

A true and enduring American classic.

About the Author:

Theodore Weesner, born in Flint, Michigan, is aptly described as a "Writers' Writer" by the larger literary community. His short works have been published in the New Yorker, Esquire, Saturday Evening Post, Atlantic Monthly and Best American Short Stories. His novels, including The True Detective, Winning the City and Harbor Light, have been published to great critical acclaim in the New York Times, The Washington Post, Harper's, The Boston Globe, USA Today, The Chicago Tribune, Boston Magazine and The Los Angeles Times to name a few. 

Weesner is currently writing his memoir, two new novels, and an adaptation of his widely praised novel - retitled Winning the City Redux - also to be published by Astor + Blue Editions. He lives and works in Portsmouth, NH. 


Review:
The Car Thief was a very interesting novel. It follows a boy named Alex who has gotten himself into a lot of trouble with the law, but he doesn't even know why he is doing it. All the people around him seem to have idea on why he could have stolen all those cars, but he himself cannot think of a logical reason for him doing it. Maybe their reasons are accurate, but he can't for sure to himself if that is true.

There were a lot of things that i liked about this novel. I liked how simple the writing was. It was simple, but still elegant in its own fashion. I also liked that the story was divided into parts for each big event that happened through out the story. I think The Car Thief was a very good coming of age novel. It reminded me a lot, just like the reviewer from The Kansas City Star, of Catcher in the Rye. It was a simply written coming of age story about a boy who has a troubled life, but figure's things out in the end.

Now, if literary fiction is not the normal genre that you partake in then you might not fall in love with this novel. It would be better for you if you just wanted a break from the norm and read this leisurely. Since i put myself on a deadline for when i wanted/needed to get it read by it did take away some of the pleasure of reading it since i felt like i had to read it, instead of just wanting to. And it is definitely told in a much slower, straightforward way that is completely opposite to my fast paced paranormals that i love.

One change i would have made to this during editing would be to retitle "The New Introduction by the Author" and put it at the end. I only say to do this, because it is basically a summary of the entire story before you even read it and at that point what is the point in reading it anymore? I think that was the reason it felt dragged out to me and there were no surprise elements to the story, because i already knew what was going to happen. If i would have skipped that and just started the story i think i would have liked it a lot more and would have felt more emotions while reading it.

Overall:
The Car Thief was a really good coming of age story. It was an interesting story about a boy who went down the wrong path and has to find his way back. I liked that the writing style was very simplistic and had an easy flow. This would be a very good novel to read leisurely if its not your normal genre that you usually read, and i also think that if they put the authors new introduction that was in the beginning at the end or out completely that way the story wasn't spoiled for you. Overall, it was pretty good.

Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥ 3/5

*All information on book and author, including photos, were from information sent to me by Astor + Blue's senior publicist. This novel was also sent to me by Astor + Blue's senior publicist for an honest review*

Saturday, May 26, 2012

Question of the Moment 72

What is your number one pet peeve? That one thing that when you see it in/on a book that you almost can't get past and it stays on your mind the whole time?

Mine is definitely grammar issues. Misspellings, sentences not making sense, wrong order of words, etc., I usually come across this since i get a lot of first editions and arcs and it always bugs me. When it's not too bad i can let it go, but when its really bad i can't get past it. Every time i see another mistake i get urked lol. I know that we all think we're independent and can do everything on our own, but when it comes to writing for the public you need to have someone proof read it for you. At the very least you should listen to this advice that i heard one. I don't remember where i read it, im pretty sure one of the blogs i follow either did a guest post, an interview, or just a post in general about writing and self-publishing (which if you know who im talking about please leave a comment and ill link to them) and they said after finishing your work wait about six months (i think) and then do edits that way it is fresh in your mind and you are more likely to find mistakes. Such a good idea.

What is your book peeve? Let me know in the comments below =]

Thursday, May 24, 2012

BBReview: "Prom Dates To Die For" By Mari Farthing

Genre: Young Adult -Paranormal/Anthology
Publishing Date: April 16th, 2012
Page Count: 140
Source: Sent to me by the publisher
Format: Paperback

Description from Goodreads.com:
Five young adult authors cordially invite you to five paranormal proms with...

Supernatural hunters hired to save a prom date hungry for souls

A reaper haunted by a past she doesn't remember

A prom queen seeking justice...and revenge

A loner musician called to save his classmates from an enemy only he can see

A heroine getting much more than she wished for on her 18th birthday and prom night

Fright, fun and unforgettable.

Review:
Darkness Becomes Him By Kelly Parra:
I really really liked Darkness Becomes Him, and i would really love to see it made into a novel and not just a short story. It has a lot of potential to be a really good series. I loved everything about it, and it was a great start to the anthology. Definitely my favorite story.

The Bone Flower By Heather Dearly:
I had high hopes for this ones, because i thought it would be cool to read about a reaper, but it ended up falling a little flat for me. It was definitely great for a short story, because i think if it would have been more true to reaping that it would have ended too short and would have disappointed me since it is a short story. I wish it would have been longer so that the story could have been built up more.

Every Breath You Take By Lena Brown:
Very creepy story. Definitely my third favorite story. I had the feeling possession was going to happen, but i didn't really know at the same time. I just loved how creepy everything felt. It was awesome that everything had that 80's feel to it, though. I could definitely feel a time era difference when the prom queen would come out. Very good story, and it was perfect as a short story!

A Kiss on the Threshold By Aaron Smith:
This was a good story. It was a little out of my element and personal liking, because it was more science fiction paranormal, but it was still good. If it would have been a normal length novel, i probably wouldn't have liked it, but since it was a short story i was able to stay focused and get through it. Loved the ending, so romantic lol.

Tonight, You're Mine By Jenny Peterson:
This is my second favorite story in the series. I really wish it was turned into a series, because it has so much potential to be one. It was such a good story. I love reading about paranormal hunters, it is just so interesting to me =D Really, really great story!

Overall:
I really liked this anthology. It was the perfect length and was filled with really good stories. My order for most liked to least liked would be 1. Darkness Become Him by Kelly Parra, 2. Tonight, You're Mine by Jenny Peterson, 3. Every Breath You Take By Lena Brown, 4. A Kiss on the Threshold by Aaron Smith, and 5. The Bone Flower by Heather Dearly. Really glad i had the opportunity to read this, because it was a great little break from reading full length novels. Definitely worth a read =D

Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ 4/5

*Book image and description are from Goodreads.com. The image and description are linked to web page. This novel was sent to me by the author and its representatives for an honest review*

Wednesday, May 23, 2012

Question of the Moment 71

What is your favorite memory from prom? Or if you didn't go to prom, what is your favorite memory from any high school dance?

My favorite memory from prom would definitely be my family surprising me and my friends by picking us all up in a limo, and then taking us to the local park to take pictures. I know my favorite part should be something from the actual dance, but it was kind of boring. I just loved how pretty me and all my friends looked so i love all of the pictures =D




What is your favorite memory? Let me know in the comments below =]

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

BBReview: "Anna Dressed in Blood" By Kendare Blake

Genre: Young Adult -Paranormal
Publishing Date: August 30th, 2011
Page Count: 316
Source: Bought from Barnes & Noble
Format: Hardcover

Description from Goodreads.com:
Just your average boy-meets-girl, girl-kills-people story...

Cas Lowood has inherited an unusual vocation: He kills the dead.

So did his father before him, until his gruesome murder by a ghost he sought to kill. Now, armed with his father's mysterious and deadly athame, Cas travels the country with his kitchen-witch mother and their spirit-sniffing cat. Together they follow legends and local lore, trying to keep up with the murderous dead - keeping pesky things like the future and friends at bay.

When they arrive in a new town in search of a ghost the locals call Anna Dressed in Blood, Cas doesn't expect anything out of the ordinary: move, hunt, kill. What he finds instead is a girl entangled in curses and rage, a ghost like he;s never faced before. She still wears the dress she wore on the day of her brutal murder in 1958: once white, but now stained red and dripping blood. Since her death, Anna has killed any and every person who has dared to step into the deserted Victorian she used to call home.

And she, for whatever reason, spares his life.

Review:
When i first saw the cover of Anna Dressed in Blood i knew i had to read it, because it was so pretty and spooky, and the cover did not disappoint. Anna Dressed in Blood was a fantastic read. It was beautiful and creepy just like its cover.

I really enjoyed the characters in the novel. They were all very well formed and didn't disappoint me at all. Cas's character is of a boy who has had to grow up and act older than he really is since his father has died. He has had to take on the responsibility of being the man of the house, but also to take over the family business... Vanquishing ghosts that kill people. What i really loved about Cas is that yes, he is tough and didn't need help, but you soon get to see the real side of Cas when he is having nightmares and trying to figure out how to kill Anna. He is tough, but he still is just a kid and needs friendship and help sometimes. It was good to see some humility to him. Anna did not disappoint either, she was extremely scary. I would not want to be caught alive in her house.

I think Kendare Blake did an amazing job with this story. She did not disappoint on the scare factor of the book. I really thought that what was going to happen was that it was going to seem scary, but then just turn into a love story and then happily ever after. I am so happy that that isn't what happened. Anna was definitely extremely scary and intense in the beginning and then slowly feelings started to form. It wasn't an overnight feeling, which i really appreciated. The ending is phenomenal. I was so scared and grossed out, and especially heart broken and sad, almost to tears, over one of the small characters in the ending stages, and then was sad for Cas in the end as well.

Overall:
Anna Dressed in Blood was amazing. I couldn't put it down after chapter three. I don't know if when i first started reading it if it was cause i was tired or what, but i feel like i could have finished it a little sooner if i wouldn't have stopped at chapter three and went to bed. The characters that Kendare created were all amazing and did not disappoint in the least. I was so happy that it was actually a very creepy and scary book and wasn't just a little creepy with a lot of fluffy love bits. I also really loved that the feelings and emotions that developed in the book weren't overnight, but progressed and turned into something really beautiful. Overall, amazing. So happy i bought this beautiful novel!!

Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ 5/5

*Book image and description are from Goodreads.com. The image and description are linked to web page. This novel was bought with my own money*

Monday, May 21, 2012

Question of the Moment 70

Do you think you would ever be able to be a Ghost Hunter or would you be too terrified? Or do you have another reason you wouldn't do it?

I would love to go looking for ghosts like the shows Paranormal State, Ghost Hunters, etc., but i would have to go as a group; never alone. I would be way too afraid to go alone. Now, to actually go out looking for ghosts and banishing them alone i would never be able to do. I am just not courageous enough to do that, i dont have the guts to do something like that lol. I would however go out and have fun by hearing ghost stories, setting up video camera, take pictures looking for orbs, and try and catch ghostly recording on a voice recorder =D

Would you be able to be a ghost hunter? Let me know in the comments below =]

Friday, May 18, 2012

Follow Friday #21


This Weeks Follow Friday Question:
Summer Break is upon us! What would be the perfect vacation spot for you to catch up on your reading & relax?

A great spot for me to catch up on my reading would be on a cruise ship going somewhere far and warm. Again, great not perfect. The perfect spot would be staying in a cabin up north on the water with just me and my boyfriend, laying in a hammock out on the dock by the water and taking breaks in between reading for swims. This is the spot i vacationed at last summer with my family and it was perfect =D I cant wait to read all the dreamy spots everyone else will think of!

For the list to add your name and follow others go to Parajunkee's and Alison Can Read's Follow Friday post =]

Thursday, May 17, 2012

Interview/GIVEAWAY: "Ties to the Blood Moon" By Robin Waldrop


Hello everyone, today i have an awesome interview and giveaway with Robin Waldrop, author of Ties to the Blood Moon. To read my review on Ties to the blood moon click here.

.::INTERVIEW::.

Where did you get the inspiration to write about werewolves and vampires?
A dream actually. It was one of those weird dreams you just can’t forget about. Genevieve and William were in the dream, and I just created a world around them. It was actually fun. My two oldest daughters allowed me to bounce ideas off them and they helped to shape the story.

Was Ties to the Blood Moon always the original title? And how did you come up with it?
Yes. While writing the book I just couldn’t come up with a title I really liked until one day I was on my way to work and it just hit me. So, that evening when I got home I googled the name and could not find that title in use anywhere. I knew right then that was my title.

Did you have to do a lot of research on the topic before hand?
I do some research before starting a book, but most of it is done during the writing process. I’m one of those writers who jots down a general plot, then as the book progresses things always change. So why do a lot of research I might not even use?

If you could be any mythical/paranormal creature what would you be?
Definitely a witch or a vampire. I love them both. My first choice is a witch—like a Bewitch witch. And the reason I said vampire is I love the dark side a bit as well. Who wouldn’t want to stay young forever? I know I would … or I think I would anyway.

What is your favorite thing about being an author?
The imaginary worlds I get to dream up, and the characters I get to mold into anything I want them to be. A lot of my characters start out as people I know. I then take them and transform them into these wonderful (or terrible) characters.

What is your usual routine while writing? (do you have a favorite spot, snack, drink, music, etc.,)
I have a fairly large family so I can write anywhere, and almost at any time. I like to make a fresh pot of coffee, get a Ziploc bag of Fruit Loops, and lock myself in my bedroom where its quiet. I also take my computer wither me to work and I write on the way there, at lunch break, and on the way home everyday. Of course, my husband does the driving.

What has always been your favorite genre to read?
It used to be suspense/thrillers until I discovered young adult. Now its any YA paranormal or fantasy.

Do you know what you will title the second book? And do you know when it will be released?
I have NO idea what I will name book 2 in this series. I’m still hoping it will just come to me like the first one did. My cover designer, Claudia McKinney has already finished creating the cover. She’s just waiting for me to give her the title so she can finish it. I’m about halfway through writing this one. Originally, it was supposed to be released in March. However, Murphy’s law always applies to me. Now I’m hoping for a release date in July. We’ll see.

.::GIVEAWAY::.

  • Must be at least 13 years old 
  • Open internationally
  • If you win only the author and I will have access to your email address and will be the only ones contacting you. 
  • If you win the paperback only myself and the author will have access to it, and will only use it for shipping purposes. 
  • If you are under 18 years old please make sure it is ok with your parent to give out your home address.
  • If you win you have 48 hours to respond to the email or a new winner will be chosen
  • Ends on May 31st at 12:01am
  • One entry per person
  • Fill out the Rafflecopter 
*UPDATE* The paperback will be only given to US residents due to shipping costs, but the e-books are still internation =D *UPDATE*
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

BBReview: "Ties to the Blood Moon" By Robin Waldrop

Genre: Young Adult -Urban Fantasy/Paranormal
Publishing Date: November 1st, 2011
Page Count: 340
Source: Sent to me by the author
Format: E-Book

Description from Goodreads.com:
Genevieve is a teenage girl who moves in with her aunt in Alaska after the death of her mother. Soon after her arrival she learns the things she was raised to believe only existed in fairy tales are in fact a big part of her history. When it get to be too much she seeks refuge in the arms of her new boyfriend, William, only to find out he's not who she thought he was either.

Review:
Ties to the Blood Moon is and isn't your typical werewolf/vampire novel. It is, because there are werewolves and vampires and others and their back stories are similar to ones that everyone has heard before, but at the same time there is something unique to their back story and that is the blood line in royalty and what it means to them. It was very interesting to read of a new, but at time old, take on the lives of werewolves and vampires.

Genevieve is very easy to like character, because she acts like most teenage girls, but what i really loved about her was how independent she is. You all know how i love my independent women these days. She did a lot of stuff on her own to protect the ones she loved and she was right there at the front line, not waiting for anyone else to go ahead of her.

What i really loved was the ending! I didn't see it coming at all who the traitor in the story would be. I cannot believe who it was, because the entire time it was pointing (at least to me) at three others that were very close to Gen and i was picking out of those three the entire time. I really love when endings are unexpected and you can't guess correctly before getting to the truth. It just proves how good of an author they are to not leave any bread crumbs to the truth, even subconsciously.

There are some slow parts here and there, but when it gets to parts when something is about to happen it picks up a lot and there are way more action fast paced parts than slow. This novel is packed  full of action and at every turn something is going on in Genevieve's life. Just as soon as you think everything is going to work out for the good something bad happens.

The only part i didn't like was William's character *SPOILER* I completely understand that i was supposed to be weary of William, because Robin Waldrop made you point the finger at him as the traitor for a big chunk of the book, but i really liked Joseph and really wanted William to be the traitor so that Genevieve could be with him instead. I had a gut feeling that William was going to end up being the good guy and staying with Gen. I do really like that the entire time he told her the truth about everything and that he does truly love her, though. Maybe he will grow on me *END*

Overall:
I really liked Ties to the Blood Moon. It is pretty similar to other werewolf and vampire novels, but still different to be its own story and not just a "its just like BLANK" novel where you can easily compare it to another. I can compare parts of it to other books, but definitely cannot compare the story as a whole to another book. I really liked how independent Genevieve's character is and that she doesn't wait around for others to catch up, she goes after what she wants. I didn't care for William that much, and i understand why Robin Waldrop made me feel that way. The ending was completely unexpected and i never saw it coming. Sometimes it is good to guess and be right, but it is way better to just be surprised. Overall, very good novel.

Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ 4/5


*Book image and description are from Goodreads.com. They are linked above to the picture and to the description*

Monday, May 14, 2012

Question of the Moment 69

Which do you like better, when you guess who the "bad guy" will end up being in the end and are right or when you are completely surprised who the "bad guy" is and didn't find out till the very end?

I, personally, like it when im surprised. Sure, sometimes it does feel good to be right. To take a guess and that end up happening, but it is way more fun when i am completely off guard and didn't see it coming. That to me makes a good story, because then i am racing to the end to find out who the killer, or bad guy, is.

Which do you prefer? Being right or being surprised? Let me know in the comments below =]

Saturday, May 12, 2012

Book Briefs Blogoversary!!


Book Briefs

Go check out Book Briefs one year blogoversary! She is giving away a Nook Simple Touch E-Reader with 5-10 e-books of the winners choice and thats only the first giveaway! There are tons more to be given away by her for her blogoversary so keep an eye out! This is such a great giveaway that i had to share =D

Hope you enter and Good Luck to everyone!!

MAY THE ODDS BE EVER IN YOUR FAVOR =D

Click here to Enter

Friday, May 11, 2012

Follow Friday #20


This Weeks Follow Friday Question:
This Sunday in the U.S. is Mothers Day, in celebration, what are some of your favorite books with strong mother/child relationships?

Some of the novels that i have read that have strong mother/child relationships are... 
The Childe by C.A. Kunz
Cat and her mom are very close and she is fantastic mother to both of her children and has always been there for both of them no matter what. 

Forgive My Fins by Tera Lynn Childs
I know Lily technically doesn't have a mom around since her's past away, but her aunt has been that motherly figure for her. She is the greatest aunt possible and always makes sure to keep Lily on the right track. 

Forgotten by Cat Patrick
London's mom is fantasic! For christ sakes she makes sure that she remembers her past and helps her through her days. They both have been through a lot and help each other along the way. Who can say she isn't a great mom?

Red Ridge Pack by Sara Dailey and Staci Weber 
Allison's mom is awesome. She is funny, but still makes sure that her children are protected at all times, GO YOU! 

Witches of East End by Melissa De La Cruz
I feel like Joanna is the "typical" mom. Like she is picture perfect, because she does every motherly think imaginable. Her daughters are very lucky, and they know it =D

Hope you have an easy time picking out your examples like me, i just went through my review list lol. Thanks for following in advance =D


For the list to add your name and follow others go to Parajunkee's and Alison Can Read's Follow Friday post =]

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Bout of Books Read-A-Thon Goal Post/ UPDATES


YAY A READ-A-THON!! I get so excited for read-a-thon's, because i read a lot of good books really fast, thus making me proud of myself, get to make new friends, and  of course there are usually giveaways.

The Bout of Books Read-A-Thon's purpose isn't to focus on giveaways, but to focus on pushing ourselves to read more books and that is just what i need, because i am very behind on my list of book i have for review. There is still time to sign up so go sign up NOW  <--Click there

My goal during this week long read-a-thon is to read 5 books, with 4 being the minimum. I really hope i can achieve this, or i would feel happy lol

Here are the novels i hope to read:
Torn By Dean Murray (for review)
Broken By Dean Murray (for review)
The Mediator: Shadowland By Meg Cabot
Darkride By Laura Bradley Rede (for review)
The Girl in the Steel Corset By Kady Cross
Significance By Shelly Crane (for review)

Hope you will join me!!

Each day i will also be posting my updates all in this post to keep in organized so also look out for those =D

.::UPDATES::.

5/14
Number of books I've read today: 45% of one
Number of pages I've read today: 92
Total number of books I've read: 0
Books: Torn By Dean Murray


5/15
Number of books I've read today: 55% of one (finishing it) and 29% of a new one (starting it)
Number of pages I've read today: 212
Total number of books I've read: 1 and 29% of a second
Books: Torn By Dean Murray, Broken By Dean Murray

5/16
Number of books I've read today: 23% of one
Number of pages I've read today: 79
Total number of books I've read: 1 and 1/2
Books: Torn By Dean Murray, Broken By Dean Murray

5/17
Number of books I've read today: Finished the last 48% of one
Number of pages I've read today: 165
Total number of books I've read: 2
Books: Torn By Dean Murray, Broken By Dean Murray

5/18
Number of books I've read today: 1 & 1/2
Number of pages I've read today: 449
Total number of books I've read: 3 1/2
Books: Torn By Dean Murray, Broken By Dean Murray, The Mediator: Shadowland By Meg Cabot, Darkride By Laura Bradley Rede

5/19
Number of books I've read today: 29% of 1
Number of pages I've read today: 84
Total number of books I've read: 4
Books: Torn By Dean Murray, Broken By Dean Murray, The Mediator: Shadowland By Meg Cabot, Darkride By Laura Bradley Rede

5/20
Number of books I've read today: 1 and 15% of another
Number of pages I've read today: 374
Total number of books I've read: 5
Books:Torn By Dean Murray, Broken By Dean Murray, The Mediator: Shadowland By Meg Cabot, Darkride By Laura Bradley Rede, and Significance By Shelly Crane 


Ending Results:
I MADE MY GOAL!! I am so proud of myself, and i really hope all my other read-a-thoner's reached their goals as well. I know mine was small compared to some, but for me its still an awesome accomplishment =D





Tuesday, May 8, 2012

BBReview & GIVEAWAY: "Bone Dressing 1: Bone Dressing" By Michelle I. Brooks

Genre: Young Adult -Paranormal
Publishing Date: April 20th, 2011
Page Count: 364
Source: Sent to me by the author
Format: Paperback

Description from Goodreads.com:
Time is running out & the Dark that's been chasing Syd for many lifetimes has finally caught up with her.

Sydney Roberdeau lost her parents as a young girl. Waiting for her life to start and the freedom that will come with her eighteenth birthday, Syd spends much of her time haunting the local cemetery. It is there, stretched out among the dead, that she feels most alive, most at home. Until one rainy night when Beau, Sarah, and T.J. crash her ghostly sanctuary, appearing out of nowhere, turning her already inside-out world on degree past upside down.

Syd must now revisit her past lives, dressing in the bodies of her previous selves & bone dressing. Her only chance to outrun the evil breathing down her neck is to face her own worst nightmares and her strongest desires. But if she can't stay out of trouble in this life, how can she possibly fix mistakes from past lives? And just how many lives has she lived, loved, and lost? What is Syd exactly, and what will she risk for the life of a man she doesn't remember, the man she spent a lifetime with, the man she loves? Everything including her very own life?

Bone dressing, the first in a series of seven books, will carry Syd and Beau on an adventure that transcends life itself.

Review:
Like i stated yesterday in my "Question of the Moment" i don't necessarily believe in past lives so i definitely had a small notion that i might now be able to buy into it and enjoy the story, but much to my surprise i completely bought in.

Bone Dressing is extremely captivating. Syd's story draws you in and makes you keep reading faster and faster until the end. I completely loved this story and i cannot wait to read more! I did read a review on goodreads that said that they didn't love Syd's character at first, but that she eventually grew on them and that is almost what happened with me. I didn't relate to Syd, because i've never lost a parent, gotten into trouble, etc., but i could definitely relate to her emotions. I was able to look past the parts of her that i didn't relate to and bond with her emotionally and once she met Beau and got super sarcastic i definitely bonded with her, because i am one sarcastic girl. If you start reading Bone Dressing and you start to feel that you don't connect with her right away, please don't stop reading until you see her during one of her past lives, because you very well may connect with that "Sydney". I know there is a part relating with her past life love and i bawled my eyes out cause all i could think about what my own boyfriend, so just wait till you get to the past life to judge your connection to Syd.

Michelle Brooks writing is beautiful and it really draws you in. I really liked the flow of the book and thought that everything tied in and fit well. There was only one part that i didn't like, but Michelle definitely intended it, which was Mr. Askew. He gave with the willies and i just couldn't wipe the gross off the page. I really wish in the end when Syd confront him that she could have found something to cover up with first. If you've read Bone Dressing then you know what im talking about. lol.

I honestly don't know what more to say about this novel that i am sure others have already said, but it was just really, really good. I couldn't put it down and had to read more. The romance in the novel was impeccable and i was racing to get to those parts.

Overall:
Bone Dressing was AMAZING! I loved every second of it. At first i didn't relate to Syd, but i did relate to her emotionally and could definitely relate to her sarcasm, because half the time thats the only language i speak =D. The romance in the novel was beautifully done and i was racing to get to those parts. Michelle's writing is beautiful and draws you in. Trust me, you will not be able to put this novel down =D

Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ 5/5

--------------------------------

GIVEAWAY! 

Guidelines: 

  • Be a GFC follower of Book Bite Reviews
  • Must be at least 13 years old 
  • Open internationally
  • If you win only the author and I will have access to your email address and will be the only ones contacting you. 
  • If you win you have 48 hours to respond to the email or a new winner will be chosen
  • Ends on May 22nd at 12:01am
  • One entry per person
  • Fill out the Rafflecopter 

Monday, May 7, 2012

Question of the Moment 68

If you found out that you had lived past lives, would you believe it?

I honestly don't know. If there was proof of these past lives then i obviously would, but if someone just told me "Hey, past lives are real" i don't think i would. I know there are religions out there that do believe in past lives, and that is great, i don't discredit you at all. I am just saying that i don't personally believe in them unless i was given proof and probably just because i was never brought up around the idea that they did exist.

What about you? Do you believe in past lives? Let me know in the comments below =]

Friday, May 4, 2012

Join #TeamPositive!!





Hey everyone! 
I want to invite you to join #TeamPositive! Now, you may be wondering what exactly #TeamPositive is, and i will tell you =D

#TeamPositive is a new twitter meme that i have decided to start. Things haven't been very positive lately, and i know that everything has finally calmed down and that it will eventually go away, but there will always be drama, and even if there isn't there will always be people out there who need a smile. So, it is time to spread the smiles!! Every Saturday myself and Ashley (from Fictional Distraction and her personal site Ramblings of a Red bird), and anyone else who decides to join in will be spreading the smiles on twitter. Now you're probably wondering how exactly do i spread the smiles? Well, there are two ways...

1. Every saturday if you see someone you follow is having an off day you tweet them saying something nice to them and put the hash tag #TeamPositive on the end. (or any other day if you wish)
2. You refresh your twitter and the first person you see you tweet them something nice with the hash tag #TeamPositive on the end. 

I know it will be awkward at first, especially if you do the second option, but i tried both ways last Saturday with amazing results. Almost everyone tweeted me back saying how nice it was, and i know that they probably had a smile on. I just ask that you help spread the smiles and that if you get a #TeamPositive mention, then please pass on the smile!

I hope that you participate and please make sure to check back by next saturday, because hopefully i can start doing giveaways for #TeamPositive. 

Now, are YOU ready to join? If so grab the button and stick it on your blog and spread the smiles every Saturday with the #TeamPositive hash tag =D

Book Briefs Blogoversary!!




Book Briefs

Go check out Book Briefs one year blogoversary! She is giving away a Nook Simple Touch E-Reader with 5-10 e-books of the winners choice and thats only the first giveaway! There are tons more to be given away by her for her blogoversary so keep an eye out! This is such a great giveaway that i had to share =D

Hope you enter and Good Luck to everyone!!

MAY THE ODDS BE EVER IN YOUR FAVOR =D

Click here to Enter

Thursday, May 3, 2012

Follow Friday #19



This Weeks Follow Friday Question:
What is one thing you wish you could tell your favorite author?

 My favorite author is Melissa De La Cruz and the one thing i wish i could tell her is how amazing of a writer she is. Her books just draw me in every time and i can never put them down. Her writing style is flawless and tugs at my heart strings the way she so elegantly writes. She really has made me pay attention to authors writing styles when i read now and i can easily identify when someone is an amazing writer (to me) and especially when someone has A LOT of potential to be great when they might not even know it yet. 

I love this question. I feel like everyone's follow friday posts are going to be mushy lmao


For the list to add your name and follow others go to Parajunkee's Follow Friday post and Alison Can Read's Follow Friday post =]

Tuesday, May 1, 2012

Book Briefs Blogoversary!


Book Briefs

Go check out Book Briefs one year blogoversary! She is giving away a Nook Simple Touch E-Reader with 5-10 e-books of the winners choice and thats only the first giveaway! There are tons more to be given away by her for her blogoversary so keep an eye out! This is such a great giveaway that i had to share =D

Hope you enter and Good Luck to everyone!!

MAY THE ODDS BE EVER IN YOUR FAVOR =D

Click here to Enter

BBReview: "Spiritus Series 1: Spiritus" By Dana Michelle Burnett

Genre: Young Adult -Paranormal
Publishing Date: October 2011
Page Count: 307
Source: Sent to me by the author
Format: E-Book

Description of goodreads.com:
A love that refuses to die...

"As I watched him vanish into a soft mist that faded away, i knew that he was no ordinary spirit... I knew that he was a dangerous entity that could be in some corner of another realm planning his revenge, but I also knew that I was hopelessly in love with him."

When Becca moves into her ancestral home in Corydon, Indiana, her life takes a puzzling and thrilling turn when she meets the ghost haunting the halls. As the seductive spirit lures her closer and closer, she learns about her own past and starts to understand that some mistakes are meant to last.

Becca McAllister has always been different from other girls her age. Never part of the "in crowd", Becca never really fit in anywhere. When her mother dies and her father moves them to the small town of Corydon, Indiana, Becca didn't expect things to change.

But things do change when Becca accidentally makes contact with a one hundred and sixty year old ghost, Alastor Sinclair, that haunts the halls of her new home.

To Becca, Alastor is a seductive spirit that seems to see straight into her soul. To Alastor, Becca is what he has waited a century for--A second chance.

But the closer they get, the more Becca realizes that this isn't the first time she and Alastor have known each other. Worse still, is she the one responsible for his death so long ago? And if so, did he come back for love or revenge?

Review:
I really wanted to like Spiritus more than i did, but there was one key thing that i just couldn't get past. There was a lot that i liked, but i was just haunted by that one aspect the entire time. I thought maybe it was happening for a reason and that there was going to be a twist at the end, but the twist never happened. I think if it would have ended differently then i would have liked it a lot more, and ill expand on that later in the spoilers section.

I'll first talk about the positive stuff, because there was a lot. I really liked Becca's character. Since i am known as Becca with my family i found it interesting to read about someone with the same name as me, and i am very happy that i did end up liking her character a lot. I loved that she didn't care what other people thought about her and that she was very level headed. Most things that would bother other people easily slipped off her shoulder. I also liked that stuck up for herself. She didn't let people push her around and stated her point of view. It was very easy to relate to Becca, emotionally. There is a part in the book where she is completely heart broken, and i felt like i was going through the same thing with her. I really liked the part that her new friends played into the story. In most novels they introduce the friends, the guy shows up, the girl becomes distant from her friends, and the friends just fade into the background, but it was not at all like that in Spiritus. Becca's friends paid attention, and they could tell that something was up. Instead of just getting mad at her and ignoring her, they bugged her to tell them what was going on and stuck by her as a shoulder she could always lean on. I really liked that. Lastly, i loved Jonah's character. I loved that he was the most popular guy and that girls drooled all over him. I didn't like how he ended up acting at the dance, though, i wish he would have just stayed suave.

Now, im sure you are probably thinking, "With all those positive things how could one negative be so bad"? Well, i will tell you what kind of negative could ruin a story and that negative is called Alastor Sinclair. I did not like Alastor at all. He was extremely controlling, ill-tempered, and even slightly sexist. I understand that he came from a different time period, but still it was just unacceptable. I know that there was once a time when i probably would have just accepted this kind of behavior, like back when i first read Twilight because now i can see that Edward was a very controlling guy, but now that i am reading all these YA novels where the woman is strong and independent i just get so turned off by too controlling of men. I understand that some guys want to be the "protector" and "alpha dog" but Alastor took it to a completely different level. I think if he would of have more positive sides to him as well, instead of just telling Becca what to do constantly and going into huge fits of rage where even Becca thinks she is about to get physically hurt, i would have been ok with it, but that never happened. He always stayed negative.

*SPOILER SECTION* 
I, honestly, thought that since Alastor was so controlling and manipulative and just negative that the story was going to turn out being that Alastor was negative and just there for Revenge on Becca and that Jonah would come and save her in the end and they would live happily ever after, but that didn't happen. I was praying that that was going to be the case, but it wasn't. Another scenario could have been that Burnett could have made it where Becca already had a crush on Jonah and then Alastor showed up saying he was her husband and then things turned out the way they did, instead of feelings for both happening at the same time. The last scenario that i can think of that would have made me like this more is if in the ending Burnett would have just ended it when Jonah and Becca hug, and then maybe put in an excerpt to book two where Becca sees Alastor's eyes in the background, because then i would have ended it with being hopeful for Becca's future rather than hating her and Alastor. I just hate that when she FINALLY gave up Alastor she cried her eyes out over him and begged him to just come back that he didn't, and when she finally moved on and decided to take a chance on Jonah now that Alastor all of a sudden appears. He just can't let her be happy. It's if he can't have her no one will, and i do not agree with that. That is called an abusive relationship.
*SPOILER OVER*

Overall:
There were a lot of things that i really liked about Spiritus, but the fact that i HATED Alastor i just couldn't stay positive about the book. Alastor was too controlling and too violent for me to ever get past and accept. I do not condone abusive relationships and i just couldn't get past his terrible character to cherish this book the way it should be. With that being said, if it would have ended differently or if Becca woke up and realized how Alastor was and got rid of him i would have liked this novel a lot more, but that just didn't happen. I wish it could have ended differently. Although, i didn't like that one aspect of the book i don't discourage Burnett at all. She is an amazing writer and she had me hooked the whole time reading. Her writing style is very brilliant and keeps you reading to find out what is going to happen next. Again, i wish that one negative wasn't in there, but it was, and maybe the series will take a turn in my favor =]

Rating: ♥ ♥ ♥ 3/5