Book Review: Darkest Mercy by Melissa Marr

Darkest Mercy by Melissa Marr
Publisher: HarperCollins
Publication date: February 2011
Pages: 336
Source: e-book from Library
For: Fun
Series: Wicked Lovely, Book 5

*Spoilers for the first four books in the Wicked Lovely series are inevitable*
With Keenan missing, Aislinn is struggling to run the summer court by herself, all while longing for Seth. Donia is working to strengthen her already strong winter court, against the coming war with Bananach. With the dark court in turmoil and no one quite sure what is coming next, will Bananach defeat all and turn the world to chaos?

Things I Liked:
I can't seem to get away from this series.  I usually have mixed feelings about them, but I can't seem to give them up.  I'm glad I got to the last in this series, because the ending was surprising and satisfying.  Marr has a skill with words and descriptions that can paint an entire world so vividly.  I loved how things progressed to the point that we wonder how she will extricate her characters, and then she does it in surprising ways.  It is a smart, beautiful, complicated series. 

Things I Didn't Like:
I don't care much for several of the main characters, notably Keenan and Aislinn.  I was more interested in what happened to some of the minor characters.  Still, I found it satisfying, if not mind-blowing and amazing.  A really good faery series that has an interesting and unique faery world.

Read-alikes:
The Iron Fey series by Julie Kagawa
Lament and Ballad by Maggie Stiefvater

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !@# 
plenty, some f-words

mrg-factor: XX 
mostly sensuality and off-page action

v-factor: ->-> 
quite a bit of gory fighting

Overall rating: *** 

What books can't you stay away from?

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Book Review: Hallowed by Cynthia Hand

Hallowed by Cynthia Hand
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publication date: January 2012
Pages: 416
Source: Review copy from publisher
For: Review
Series: Unearthly Series, Book 2

*Spoilers for Unearthly are inevitable*
After failing at her purpose, Clara is unsure what to do with her life. Her whole life seemed to lead up to that event, but now she's left without any, well, purpose. Her boyfriend, Tucker, is confused as ever and her mom is just as enigmatic about what she should do now. But when Clara starts seeing another vision, she is about to discover just what is most important in life.

Things I Liked:
I enjoyed the emphasis this book placed on Clara's relationship with her family - her mom and her brother especially.  It was nice to see the focus where it should be during difficult times.  Clara's conflict between the two guys vying for her was pretty well portrayed - it was hard for her and she didn't want to make any quick and thoughtless decisions or be cruel to them (though, whether she succeeded in that is another story).  I was impressed with how Hand ended the book, doing what I thought was pretty gutsy, though it wasn't exactly what I wanted for Clara.

Things I Didn't Like:
Honestly, I got bored with the book.  Nothing much seems to happen, though there are some interesting twists that surprised me near the end.  Most of the book goes on and on about Clara struggling with feelings and Clara wanting to do things, but not doing them.  It was just so slow moving.  And it never really picked up momentum, despite having some surprises and a little action.  I was also disappointed in the direction the love triangle went, mostly because she ends up with the boy I like least, so it might be a personal preference.  Basically, I think this book just disappointed me, because I wanted so much more from it.  I guess I'll be interested in reading the next book, but not anxiously awaiting it.

Read-alikes:
Start with Unearthly by Cynthia Hand
Forbidden by Syrie James and Ryan James
Halflings by Heather Burch

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: ! 
maybe one or two

mrg-factor: X 
a bit of heavy kissing

v-factor: none

Overall rating: ***

When you're disappointed by a sequel, do you still tend to read the next book anyway?

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Book Review: Where Things Come Back by John Corey Whaley

Where Things Come Back by John Corey Whaley
Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers
Publication date: May 2011
Pages: 240
Source: Library
For: Printz Project

Cullen Witter has a lot on his mind - it's almost senior year and he's about to get the girl of his dreams, when his life is shattered by tragedy - his younger brother disappears. He must spend this summer trying to understand this new and different life, especially with the mania his small town experiences over a possibly extinct bird's reappearance.

Things I Liked:
Ok, that was probably the worst summary I've ever done, but this book is hard to explain. I'll talk about this more below, but I had a hard time getting into the book.  What I did enjoy was when I hit a point (probably around halfway) when the seemingly completely random and disparate story lines started to come together.  I was impressed with how Whaley brought them together and how they eventually made sense, especially because I was doubting it would at that point.  I loved the deep and complicated ideas the book discusses and the realistically portrayed teenage boy struggling to understand why his brother disappeared.  I think this one has a lot of merit and is skillfully woven.  I can see what elements drew the Printz committee (and Morris committee) to choose this one.

Things I Didn't Like:
As I said, I really struggled for the first half of the book.  I thought the completely different viewpoints and stories were too confusing, too random to interest me.  I only really cared about Cullen's story, so when the others would suddenly appear, I wanted to put the book down.  Initially, I really disliked the book, but I think it grew on me.  I especially hated the third-person weird zombie dreams Cullen had - totally distracting and confusing!  I'm not seeing this one having wide appeal and definitely it won't draw in reluctant readers with its slow and erractic beginning, but it does have a quiet power hidden in its depths.  And just the right touch of humor to balance it.  I guess it just didn't speak to me personally.

Read-alikes:
No idea.  Maybe a little like The Sky is Everywhere by Jandy Nelson

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !@# 
regularly throughout, one f-bomb

mrg-factor: X 
mostly off page things, but it's implied

v-factor: -> 
some zombie dream stuff and maybe a few other darker issues, nothing graphic

Overall rating: *** 

I'm really hit and miss with the Printz winners - doesn't it seem like they sometimes pick really odd books?

 

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Book Review: The Iron Knight by Julie Kagawa

The Iron Knight by Julie Kagawa
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Publication date: October 2011
Pages: 400
Source: e-book from NetGalley
For: Fun
Series: Iron Fey, Book 4

*Spoilers for the first three books are inevitable*
Ash, banished from his home in the Winter Court, unable to be with Meghan in the Iron Court, is determined to find a way to stay with her. With the help of Puck and a few other friends, he embarks on a dangerous journey, one that will lead to death or to a life with his true love.

Things I Liked:
Kagawa can write a killer good faery story.  I love the complex world she's created and especially the many unique characters that inhabit Faery.  There are so many aspects of the Nevernever that make this story interesting and add depth.  I also love a good story and this one definitely has a good story.  Action and adventure, sacrifice, love, understanding, and a touch of humor.  Something for everyone in this one.  Though I saw the ending coming a mile away (I mean, who didn't?) I still enjoyed the journey.  I'll be interested to see where Kagawa goes next.

Things I Didn't Like:
I actually had a really hard time getting into the book.  I've never been that much of a fan of Ash, to be honest, so that probably was part of it.  The story was pretty slow moving too, despite having some awesome action sequences.  I just really struggled through about the first half of the book.  After that, I got into it enough.  It was pretty predictable in the story arc, and a little bit sappy sweet, but I think Kagawa strikes a pretty good balance too.  But man, I really liked Puck more.

Read-alikes:
Read the first three books in the Iron Fey series first
Wicked Lovely series by Melissa Marr

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: ! 
a few here and there

mrg-factor: X 
implied, off-page stuff

v-factor: ->->
they have to battle creatures and beasties quite often

Overall rating: ***

I think this series has been raved about by nearly everyone.  Am I just missing something?

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Book Review: The Death Cure by James Dashner

The Death Cure by James Dashner
Publisher: Random House (Delacorte)
Publication date: October 2011
Pages: 336
Source: Purchased
For: Fun
Series: Maze Runner, Book 3

*Spoilers for The Maze Runner and The Scorch Trials inevitable*Thomas and his friends have reached the final trial in the race to get a cure.  But the past few months have taught Thomas one thing - don't trust WICKED.  So, when they plan to give everyone their memories back, he is reluctant to let them play any more mind games.  Plus, he's already remember much more than they think.  Can they figure out just what WICKED is up to? 

Things I Liked:
I'm kind of torn on this one.  I liked seeing what the outside world was like and watching Thomas try to figure out where he would fit.  Finally getting to understand WICKED and what happened in the world was so relieving!  I thought this last installment was unflinching, interesting, complicated, and just plain cool.  It seemed very much like you don't know for sure what is happening, you don't know much of anything - exactly how Thomas feels.  Definitely a unique series with a fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pants ending that will leave you reeling!  Some favorite parts:

We can't try to outguess them anymore.  Sometimes they do things just to make me do the opposite of what they think I think they think I want to do. p 114

"I want steak," he said, stopping to look at her.  "And shrimp.  And lobster.  And pancakes.  And a candy bar."
"I'm sorry - you'll have to settle for a couple of sandwiches."
Thomas sighed.  "Figures." p 267

Things I Didn't Like:
I spent much of the book wondering why we were taking these seemingly random detours.  It felt like all the things that happened up until about the last quarter of the book was filler so we could get to the exciting ending.  Yes, a lot of things happened, but seeing fight after fight and escape after escape kind of wore me down.  I was slightly more bothered by the slang too, since only the Gladers seemed to use it, but no one they met outside ever swore or had their own slang.  It was an odd contrast.  I think this book would translate really well to an action movie, and that might be part of why I didn't get a lot of it - sometimes it was like a movie scene being described.  And yet, after all that, I really did enjoy it.  Weird, crazy, horrifying, and action-packed.  A great series, especially for the guys!

Read-alikes:
Be sure to read The Maze Runner and The Scorch Trials first!
Reminded me a bit of Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi
Enclave by Ann Aguire

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none 
surprisingly, considering the slang note above

mrg-factor: none 

v-factor: ->->-> 
lots of killing, fighting, and other gory details

Overall rating: ***  

What did you think of this last book?

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Book Review House Rules by Jodi Picoult

House Rules: A Novel by Jodi Picoult
Publisher: Atria Books
Publication date: March 2010
Pages: 544
Source: Library
For: Book Club

Jacob is not your average teenager, locked in his own mind, unaware of social cues.  He has Aspergers, but that isn't the only thing he is: he's very smart and really wants to fit in, to be normal.  When his tutor, a girl who is helping him to learn about social interactions, turns up dead, his Aspergers symptoms make him look very guilty.  Will he be able to explain what happened, or is there more going on than meets the eye?

Things I Liked:
Picoult always manages to suck you into a story.  I cared about the characters - I wanted them to succeed, especially Jacob.  Her stories are tight and current and with just enough action to keep you interested.  I liked the book and I liked the themes and the portrayal of Aspergers.  I thought it showed many different views and attitudes about Aspergers, the most interesting, of course, being his own view on it.  A solid, heart-felt book.

Things I Didn't Like:
There always seems to be something to annoy me when I read popular adult fiction. :) The first thing that bugged me was how Jacob was described as always taking things literally, but here and there during his point of view, he'd throw out phrases that seemed like something he wouldn't get.  Most times, he would explain what it meant or how he initially didn't understand it, but a few times it was left without explanation (notably "fireworks go off in your head" on p 63).  Would he really use a phrase like this without commenting about how silly it was or how it didn't mean what it sounded like?  I don't think so.  Little things are mostly what bothered me.  I didn't enjoy the many (many, many) side stories and other things going on.  I don't care about the other people involved as much as the family.  And the ending was so obvious from very early on, it annoyed me.  I almost found it unbelievable that the people involved would so explicitly NOT state what had really happened.  Seriously, just spit it out already.  It was ok for a while, but it dragged on for a ridiculous amount of time, stretching it too far.  All this makes it sound like I hated it, which I didn't.  As I mentioned, I was sucked in - I read it nearly all in one sitting.  It's the kind of book I devoured and enjoyed, but on further contemplation annoyed me.

Read-alikes:
Mockingbird by Kathryn Erskine (which I enjoyed a LOT more, though it is a kids book)
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon
(only other Picoult I've read is My Sister's Keeper but both felt the same, just with different basic problems)

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !@#$ 
so, so many (f-bombs throughout)

mrg-factor: XX 
plenty of action, some described

v-factor: ->->-> 
crime scenes and gruesome deaths are frequently described

Overall rating: *** 

What's your favorite Picoult (or are you not a fan)?

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Book Review: Circle of Fire by Michelle Zink

Circle of Fire by Michelle Zink
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Publication date: August 2011
Pages: 368
Source: Library
For: Fun
Series: Prophecy of the Sisters, Book 3

*Spoilers for the first two books likely*
Lia is nearing the end of her search for the things she needs to close the gate.  All she needs now is the fourth key and the stone.  But, time is something she doesn't have.  Pursued by the Souls and constantly battling against their powers has worn her down.  Will she have the strength to withstand them and will she be able to get Alice to help her close the gate?

Things I Liked:
I was happy to finally have the conclusion to this series.  I love the Gothic historical fantasy feel to the story.  With the secret societies and the place the two sisters have in the prophecy, I couldn't stop reading the final book.  I loved especially the dynamics of Lia's relationship with her sister and with the other keys, particularly learning to forgive and trust.  I thought those were the most interesting parts of the book, though how the ancient rite would be performed was also intriguing.  Though the ending seemed inevitable, I was still interested in how she would get there.  A satisfying end to an interesting series.

"We all fall short at times, don't you think?"  she asks.  "But we forgive others their shortcomings and hope they will do the same for us."  "Perhaps.  But that's the thing; I have not forgiven their shortcomings as readily as you forgave mine.  Now..." I sigh.  "Well, now I suppose it seems unfair to expect them to extend their kindness to me." p 238

Things I Didn't Like:
I got a bit tired of the doom and end of the world feeling that Lia seemed to express at the end of every chapter.  Yes, if she fails, it's all over, but it seemed overdone and beaten to death.  Also, I was rather disappointed in how easily and neatly the end came about.  Alice's part in the book came suddenly and seemed rather unlike her character.  I admit I had a hard time believing it.  Still, a good story.

Read-alikes:
Dreamhunter by Elizabeth Knox
The Vespertine by Saundra Mitchell

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !
maybe a few
 
mrg-factor: XX
it's there, but not explicit

v-factor: none

Overall rating: ***.5 

I'm starting to think I just don't like the last book in trilogies anymore.  Maybe I just don't like endings?

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Book Review: He's So Not Worth It by Kieran Scott

He's So Not Worth It by Kieran Scott
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Publication date: June 2011
Pages: 368
Source: e-copy of ARC provided by GalleyGrab
For: Review
Series: He's So/She's So, Book 2

Ally's life has certainly gotten a lot more complicated.  After the disaster at Shannen's party where she realized her friends really don't want her, she retreats into a different life.  In order to avoid her almost-boyfriend, Jake, she will do almost anything - including possibly spending the summer on Long Island where all of her former friends will be.  Can things get any more complicated?  Of course they can.

Things I Liked:
I'm kind of hooked on the twisty, soap opera-y life that is displayed here.  The rich, the poor, the envy, the malice, the hate and the hurt - all so engrossing.  It's so horrifying that it's interesting.  I really don't much like Ally in this book.  She acts like a jerk almost through the whole thing, treating her friends and family like dirt and then wondering why they're angry.  The book almost seems like a manual for how to be selfish.  Still, it's like I can't look away from these teens who struggle to figure out themselves while making tons of awful mistakes.  It's definitely got that real feel to it!

Things I Didn't Like:
I really was annoyed with how stupid the characters acted sometimes.  Yes, it is very likely realistic, but it still bugs.  I got very tired of Jake swearing every other word.  Seriously, I get it, he swears, but do I have to keep getting hit in the face with it?  I'm not sure I can handle another book of this, but of course this one ends on a ridiculous cliff-hanger revelation.  We'll see.

Read-alikes:
Read the first book, She's So Dead to Us first
Populazzi by Elise Allen
The Real Real by Emma Mclaughlin and Nicola Kraus

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !@#$%
a lot with numerous f-words

mrg-factor: XX
plenty of page time, though not a lot of descriptive material

v-factor: none
but I thought I'd mention lots of underage alcohol consumption here

Overall rating: ***

Not exactly something I'd "recommend," but somehow it's addicting, like bad reality TV.

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton

The Forgotten Garden by Kate Morton
Publisher: Atria Books
Publication date: April 2007
Pages: 560
Source: Library
For: Book Group

Nell was abandoned on a ship to Australia when she was only a little girl.  Found by the dockmaster with only some clothes and a book of fairy tales, she remains ignorant of her past until he tells her on her twenty-first birthday.  This launches Nell on a quest to find out about her real parents, a journey that lasts through decades and into her granddaughter's life after Nell's death.  Will they ever know the truth of their past?

Things I Liked:
This was one of those books that intrigues you with family mysteries.  I was really interested in the family history and the processes Nell and Cassandra took to find out about their family.  I must admit, though, that I was more interested in reading the first hand stories of Eliza and Rose than in Nell or Cassandra.  The historical details and the crazy family secrets drew me in more than the other stories.  I also really enjoyed the fairy tale aspect - several stories weaving in and out.  I thought the Frances Hodgson Burnett detail was fun too, what with a bit of secret garden going on.  A complex and interesting story from beginning to end.  I liked this detail:

He was a scribble of a man.  Frail and fine and stooped from a knot in the center of his knobbled back.  Beige slacks with grease spots clung to the marbles of his knees, twiglike ankles rose stoically from oversized shoes, and tufts of white floss sprouted from various fertile spots on an otherwise smooth scalp.  He looked like a character from a children's story.  A fairy story.  p 101

Things I Didn't Like:
I have to admit that about 1/3 of the way in, I had already figured Nell's history out.  Perhaps not to the precise details, but I knew a few of the key facts.  That made it slightly less interesting for me, not to mention I wanted to smack Nell and Cassandra for being so blind.  I did not like how much the story jumped around, what with flashbacks right in the middle of backstories during current stories.  I don't mind duel history viewpoints, but when they jump so much, I find it distracting.  There were only a few places in the book that made me want to stop reading because of it, though.  A good story, but not one of my favorites.

Read-alikes:
The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield
Arcadia Falls by Carol Goodman
A little The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett tie-in too

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !@
scattered here and there, nothing too strong

mrg-factor: X
a bit of implied stuff, not much on page

v-factor: -> 
just a little bit

Overall rating: *** 

Do you find yourself liking fewer adult books if you usually read YA or does it still have a draw for you?

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Book Review: Firelight by Sophie Jordan

Firelight by Sophie Jordan
Publisher: HarperCollins
Publication date: September 2010
ISBN:9780061935084
Source: Library

Jacinda has been groomed for leadership in her draki pride, ever since she became the first fire breather in centuries.  But when breaking the rules puts her in contact with a sympathetic hunter and on the bad side of pride leadership, her mother takes Jacinda and her twin sister and secretly runs from the pride.  Will they be able to blend in with regular people and will Maidens be able to keep her inner draki alive?

Things I Liked:
I was actually surprised by how much I enjoyed this one.  I remember reading several scathing reviews when it came out and I completely agree with much that was said. However, maybe it was my lowered standards, but I managed to enjoy it.  I really loved the family relationships.  I thought it was important for Jacinda to grow up and understand what her family has done for her over the years.  There was a nice conflict between Jacinda and her sister that kept me interested in the story.  Also, the plot picked up about halfway through enough to keep me reading.

Things I Didn't Like:
The writing was not really to my taste, feeling a little too choppy sometimes.  And the beginning was very slow and felt like every other paranormal romance out there.  The ending was a little far-fetched also.  It definitely has its flaws, but I'm planning to pick up the next one anyway.  

Read-alikes:
It reads a lot like many of the star-crossed paranormal romances out

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !
A very few mild ones

mrg-factor: X
some sensual stuff, innuendo mainly

v-factor: ->
a little bit, but not much

Overall rating: ***

Any fans of this series want to tell me why you like it?

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Book Review: The Extraordinary Secrets of April, May, and June by Robin Benway

The Extraordinary Secrets of April, May, & June by Robin Benway
Publisher: Razorbill
Publication date: August 2010
ISBN: 9781595143785
Source: ARC sent by publisher

When April, May, and June, three sisters navigating high school together, start experiencing special powers, they think they've hit the jackpot.  April who can see the future, May who can disappear, and June who can read minds, are pretty sure using their powers to deal with high school drama is about the best thing.  But, when April sees something horrible coming, they begin to wonder if the powers are there for a different purpose.

Things I Liked:
I had some seriously mixed feelings on this one.  First, I really liked the sisters.  I thought they were individual, smart, and had realistic interactions.  Their relationships were complicated and each one held things back as well as shared things, just like real sisters do.  I especially loved how their personalities shone through the pages and seemed to fit with their abilities.  May was always fun to read about, being the middle child with a snarky attitude.  I was also kind of intrigued by the idea of their powers sort of running in the family.  But, not much of anything was mentioned about this and I wish there was more.

Things I Didn't Like:
I wasn't entirely sure what kept this from being a good book for me, but I think it was the weird combination of contemporary issues and sort of random paranormal elements.  They end up not really doing anything with their powers and I thought perhaps there was a reason for them.  It felt almost like the author thought the contemporary side of the story wasn't interesting enough and so she threw in some paranormal stuff (though, obviously, that's just my opinion).  Also, the huge build-up with all the foreshadowing and visions didn't fit with the not-very-exciting ending.  I thought it kind of fizzled out. Still, might be fun for someone wanting a sisterly book with a touch of paranormal.

Read-alikes:
Maybe a bit like Clarity by Kim Harrington

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !@# 
regularly throughout, at least one f-bomb

mrg-factor: X
mostly just talk

v-factor: ->
a very little bit of action

Overall rating: ***

Are you ever unsure just why a book doesn't work for you?

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Book Review: Carrier of the Mark by Leigh Fallon

Carrier of the Mark by Leigh Fallon
Publisher: HarperTeen
Publication date: October 2011
ISBN: 9780062027870
Source: ARC provided by publisher

When Megan moves to Ireland, all she wants is to fit in for a change. But when the mysterious Adam DeRis catches her eye, she begins to want him too.  But their relationship is going to be anything but normal.  Can their love survive the forces of nature that are trying to separate them?

Things I Liked:
I really liked the Irish setting and the paranormal aspect was unique enough to keep me reading.  I was especially interested in the powers they manifested, though I kept thinking of Captain Planet :)  It was fun to learn about the ancient societies and the complicated history Fallon had imagined around these characters.  I think the mythos and intricacies of the paranormal powers were the most interesting part of the book and made the read enjoyable (and fast). 

Things I Didn't Like:
I have to admit, I was rather disappointed in the plot.  The book felt like every other paranormal romance I've read - especially at the beginning with the aloof guy suddenly interested in the new girl and their insta-love.  While there was some effort made to explain their immediate attraction, I was still disappointed in the explanation.  Megan displayed some good sentiments and didn't act like a moron for much of the book, but her desire to sacrifice all for the love of her life (who she's known for a few months at most) was a little annoying.  I guess I'm becoming too skeptical to enjoy these paranormals much anymore. 

Read-alikes:
Twilight fans will enjoy it, most likely
Hush, Hush books by Becca Fitzpatrick
Reminded me of Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !@ 
mostly religious exclamations

mrg-factor: X 
just kissing and some talk

v-factor: -> 
some fighting

Overall rating: ***

What makes a paranormal book stand out to you in the overcrowded market?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Clarity by Kim Harrington

Clarity by Kim Harrington
Publisher: Point
Publication date: March 2011
ISBN: 9780545230506
Source: Library

 

Clarity and her family have always been the freaks in town - a family of psychics or other strange abilities.  Clare's ability lets her see things other people don't, just by touching objects.  But when a murder in town points to her brother as the main suspect, she must use her ability to find out the truth and protect him.  But will she be able to?

Things I Liked:
This was a fun, somewhat unusual paranormal story!  I was rather happy that the main focus of the book was not the romance (though I love a good romance).  Instead, the mystery takes the front seat of the book and that made it more enjoyable to me.  There was less focus on the hot boys and how much she'd like to kiss them (there was some kissing though).  I liked that Clarity and her family were open about their abilities and even made a living off of them.  It was nice not to have the whole secretive paranormal stuff.  All of this is to say that it was unique enough to keep me reading despite the general distaste I have for paranormal lately.  Also, the mystery, while not complex or terribly hard to figure out, was still intriguing.  True mystery fans will probably be bored, but those who like a little bit here and there will enjoy it. 

Things I Didn't Like:
I guess I don't have anything really specific that I didn't like, just that it didn't wow me much.  I think the characters are a bit flat and forgettable, despite some of their quirks.  While I liked Justin for being both vulnerable and sweet, he was a little annoying as well.  The mystery was, as I mentioned, rather simplistic but I was entertained while reading.

Read-alikes:
Paranormalcy and Supernaturally by Kiersten White
The Mark by Jen Nadol

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !@
scattered throughout

mrg-factor: X
mentioned but not described

v-factor: ->->
some gruesome things

Overall rating: ***

What do you think of books that you wish you liked more, but just couldn't?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Bright Young Things by Anna Godberson

Bright Young Things by Anna Godberson
Publisher: HarperCollins
Publication date: October 2010
ISBN: 9780061962677
Source: Library

Letty and Cordelia have run away from their small town life and found their way to the Big Apple.  Letty is determined to make it big as a singer, to see her name in the lights, but runs into a lot more competition and problems than expected.  Cordelia is searching for her father, a rich and famous man in the town of Manhatten.  But finding her life there is a lot more difficult than she imagines.  She makes an ally in Astrid, her brother's girlfriend, who wants to help Cordelia out, but also hides a number of secrets from her as well.  Will the three girls get all they hoped for or will their dreams be ripped from them?

Things I Liked:
Oh the setting.  It was pitch-perfect and made you feel like you were living in the Jazz Age of New York - flappers and speak-easys and Broadway and huge mansions homes.  Godberson has created another fabulous setting for her rich, twisted, and complicated historical fiction series.  You will fall into the time and place with such ease, you won't ever want to come back out.  And once again, she's created a story that will have you wondering and guessing who is telling the truth and who is hiding more lies.  

Things I Didn't Like:
It definitely didn't have quite the appeal that The Luxe books did.  I'm not sure exactly why that is, but I didn't enjoy it as much.  Other than the setting, I was not as drawn into the story and the characters.  They were not people I cared about or wanted to read more about.  Still, I'll be intrigued to read the next book.

Read-alikes:
The Luxe books by Anna Godberson
Vixen by Jillian Larkin

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !@
some throughout

mrg-factor: XX
lots of implied stuff, some off-page action

v-factor: none

Overall rating: ***

I'm a sucker for a 20s setting.  Is there a setting you're drawn to?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Nightshade by Andrea Cremer

Nightshade by Andrea Cremer
Publisher: Speak
Publication date: October 2010
ISBN: 9780142419809
Source: ARC provided by publisher

 Calla has always been alpha to her pack.  She knows what is required of her and that her union with Ren is inevitable.  But when Shay Doran shows up in her life and just keeps coming, she begins to question duty and the way things have always been run.  Will she be able to figure out what is true and who to trust before it is too late?

Things I Liked:
I really liked the Guardian/Keepers/Searchers mythos.  The dynamics, history, and ideas behind these paranormals was so intriguing, definitely helping it stand above the pack (ha ha).  I loved when she was learning about what might or might not be true in her world and the fact that she has to start questioning everything she's been told.  The wolf pack aspect was pretty fun too - I liked how Cremer developed them and how they relied upon one another.  Also, the second half of the book, once the action picks up, was certainly pulse-pounding and thrilling.  Lots of good stuff ahead for this paranormal series (which, yes, I'm very behind on).

Things I Didn't Like:
What I really disliked the most was the romance.  It wasn't that they fell in love at first sight either.  It was a pretty good triangle, for the most part.  I just didn't like Ren or Shay.  I thought the first half of the book was Calla going from one to the other and not being able to resist either one's advances.  She'd kiss one and melt and then go to the other and repeat the same thing.  Honestly, I got tired of it.  I wanted her to leave both of them behind.  Also, some of the plot points were super obvious to me from the start.  There were a few twists I didn't see coming, but much of it I had figured out very early on.  Still, the ending left me intrigued and I'd like to see what happens next.

Read-alikes:
Wicked Lovely series by Melissa Marr
Mortal Instruments series by Cassandra Clare

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !@
some throughout, no f-words

mrg-factor: XXX
it is a very sensual book, so lots of incidents

v-factor: ->->
those wolves know how to fight

Overall rating: *** bordering on **** 

What do you think, should I keep reading the series?  Do the love interests get better?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Moon Shot by Alan Shepard, Deke Slayton, and Jay Barbree

Moon Shot by Alan Shepard, Deke Slayton, and Jay Barbree
Publisher: Open Road Integrated Media
Publication date: (originally published 1994, this edition released March 2011)
ISBN: 9781453211977
Source: Review copy from NetGalley

From the time of the beginnings of NASA's manned space flight to the retirement of the Space Shuttle, Americans have been fascinated wtih space travel.  This book recounts the race against Russia to get man in space and then to the moon, covering the Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo programs. 

Things I Liked:
I'm pretty much a fan of space books and will get some enjoyment out of anything written about it.  Though I haven't read much of anything nonfiction for a while, I still get a buzz from reading a flying in space.  This book had a pretty good look at what astronauts experienced - the ups and downs of flying and failing and not making it.  I liked reading about the earlier programs, Mercury and Gemini that don't get a lot of attention.  I thought it was an interesting and even exciting book.

Things I Didn't Like:
I had a few problems with it (not including the kindle formatting issues which finally drove me to reading it on the computer).  First, I got really annoyed at the overuse of cliched phrases and metaphors that almost made it too cheesy to read.  Yes, the time of the space race was exciting and lots of extreme emotions were felt, but I thought it was a little over the top.  [Here's an example:

Deke had wanted to sit back and enjoy the trip into orbit. Instead, he felt as if he were balancing atop a long rubber balloon fighting its way through wild winds, and at its very top, where the three astronauts rode, the motions went from up and down to simultaneous spiraling. A dog shaking water from its body with a twisting, swinging motion while its legs collapsed beneath the hapless animal was Deke’s description of his ride and he could only hold on and lock his spurs into the bottom of his seat. p 349]

Second, while I understand that since Shepard and Slayton are co-authors, their flights will be much more detailed.  But, skipping entirely over some of the flights was ridiculous (Apollos 2-6 get no page time - literally).  It seemed a bit too skewed towards what these two men experienced and not enough about other ones.  Third, the dialog was awkward.  There's no way for many of the conversations recounted in the book to be remembered, so they must have been invented.  I would much rather have a summary of what was said than a created dialog to try and make it more interesting.  It is a fairly good look at these programs, but I think there are better ones out there.

Read-alikes:
Failure Is Not an Option by Gene Kranz
A Man on the Moon by Andrew Chaikin

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !@#
pretty much every page, though no f-bombs

mrg-factor: none 

v-factor: -> 
some frightening instances, nothing truly violent

Overall rating: *** 

Is there a subject that you'll read no matter how it's written?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: She's So Dead To Us by Kieran Scott

She's So Dead to Us by Kieran Scott
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Publication date: May 2010
ISBN: 9781416999522
Source: ARC sent by publisher

When Ally Ryan returns to her old town and her old school, she wants to come back to her old friends.  But things will never be the same between them, thanks to what her father did.  She faces the snobbish and nasty things those she was once friends with do to her, while trying to find a place for herself.  It doesn't help that the hot boy now living in her house is being so nice, but also not wanting to step on his friends' toes. Things are so much more complicated than she ever expected.

Things I Liked:
This felt like a guilty pleasure book to me.  It was so full of back-biting and gossip and nasty things said about other people that I couldn't fully "like" it.  That being said, I became caught up in the story and wanted to know what horrible things they would do to one another next.  It was a like an awful soap opera that I simply couldn't look away from.  Horribly, dreadfully addicting.  And with this painful cliffhanger ending that will require you to read the next book.

Things I Didn't Like:
Honestly, pretty much all the things above.  I really hated the guy Ally fell for, because he seemed like a big jerk most of the time.  Acting one way around her and another way around his friends.  Her friends made me want to kick them in the heads, but that is expected.  It was filled with swearing and trash and all that, but I still was not to be able to stop reading it.

Read-alikes:
The Real Real by Emma Mclaughlin and Nicola Kraus
Ten Things We Did (and Probably Shouldn't Have) by Sarah Mlynowski
Populazzi by Elise Allen

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !@#$%
with lots of f-words 

mrg-factor: XX
most of it implied or just talked about

v-factor: none

Overall rating: ***

And yet I still read them.  Why?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Book Review: Can You Survive: Jack London's Call of the Wild adapted by Ryan Jacobson + Giveaway

Posted as part of Tween Tuesday, hosted by GreenBeanTeenQueen.

Can You Survive: Jack London's Call of the Wild adapted by Ryan Jacobson
Publisher: Lake 7 Creative
Publication date: October 2011
ISBN: 9780977412235
Source: ARC provided by author

In this choose your path story, you become Buck, a dog about to set out on a perilous journey.  Throughout his travels and becoming a sled dog, the reader is given options to choose just what they would do and then see where they end up. 

Things I Liked:
This was a fast and fun read.  I'm going to admit that I think I've read maybe one other choose-your-story type of book and I honestly can't remember it.  Jumping right into the action of Buck's frontier adventure, kids will lose themselves in the excitement and danger of this cold, deadly place.  Interesting choices are laid before you and following each to see just where you will be was fun even for this boring old grown-up.  I definitely think this book will appeal especially to boys longing for adventures and it's a great introduction to London's classic tale.

Things I Didn't Like:
There were some places here and there that the writing was awkward and might be a bit hard for younger readers to follow.  Also, it was quite violent as the dog faces some very frightening foes.  It might be especially traumatic to animal-lovers and sensitive kids, since being written in second person can make it feel more personal.  I did notice, however, that the author noted the violence was toned down in the final edition.  A fun adventure story, all these things considered!

Read-alikes:
The Call of the Wild by Jack London
Choose your own adventure books by various authors

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: none 

mrg-factor: none 

v-factor: ->-> 
some incidents of animal fights and animal abuse

Overall rating: *** 

And, I've got a chance for you to win a copy of this book for the adventure-seeking tween in your life (or, you know, yourself).  Open to US only, fill out the form below by November 5th. 

For more stops on the tour, visit Ryan Jacobson's blog.

Were you a choose your own path/adventure/story reader?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage

Retro Friday Review & Classics Circuit Tour: The Mysteries of Udolpho by Ann Radcliffe

Doing double duty today with the Classics Circuit Tour of Gothic Lit and a Retro Friday review:

Retro Friday is a weekly meme hosted by Angie of Angieville and "focuses on reviewing books from the past. This can be an old favorite, an under-the-radar book you think deserves more attention, something woefully out of print, etc."

The Mysteries of Udolpho by Ann Radcliffe
Publisher: Various
Publication date: 1794
ISBN: Various
Source: Library

Emily has lived an ideal life with her loving parents, until sorrow is thrust upon her when first one and then the other parent dies. Left alone in the care of an unfeeling aunt, she soon finds herself in the power of the merciless man her aunt marries. Shut away in the gloomy and haunted castle of Udolpho, she suffers afflictions of all kinds. Will she escape from her wicked uncle and the unwholesome company he keeps?

Things I Liked:
This is my first experience with a serious Gothic book (ok, I read Frankenstein and Northanger Abbey, but I'm excluding those).  I admit it was hard getting back into reading a classic, since I'm used to less archaic language.  What totally surprised me was just how creepy the story was!  When it finally got to the interesting stuff (see below for more on that) I was completely enthralled and creeped out!  No wonder young ladies read these with abandon.  All the dreadful and mysterious and unearthly things that could possibly happen to one heroine do.  I really wanted to read this in conjunction with Northanger Abbey, but ran out of time.  But I could see why if Cathy was reading all these Gothic romances she might start imagining and suspecting everyone around her.  It was lurid and disturbing and completely not what I expected.  Which made it quite an enjoyable Halloween read!

Things I Didn't Like:
As I mentioned above, the book really had a slow beginning.  If I hadn't been reading it for the Classics Tour, I'd have given up, which would have been a shame.  But it was about 150-200 pages in before I finally became interested in what was happening.  Enough with descriptions of pastoral scenes and natural beauty!  The story also kind of jumped around weirdly in places, randomly taking us to other characters very briefly to see what they did.  It is definitely a book to be enjoyed by those who aren't daunted by archaic phrasing and pages of description.  A nice abridged version would be great, or even a good movie version!

Read-alikes:

Definitely Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen

Anything else by Ann Radcliffe

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !
perhaps one or two

mrg-factor: none
only some obliquely implied stuff

v-factor: ->
it has a touch of some disturbing stuff

Overall rating: ***

Thoughts on Gothic lit or this book in particular?

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage 

Book Review: Sing Me to Sleep by Angela Morrison

Sing Me to Sleep by Angela Morrison
Publisher: Razorbill
Publication date: March 2010
ISBN: 9781595142757
Source: Library

Beth the Beast has spent her entire high school career keeping her head down and listening to endless taunts about her ugliness.  But with the voice of an angel, she scores the solo for choir and suddenly finds herself being made over to a beauty by her choir-mates.  When they go on tour in Switzerland, she meets Derek a pale, gorgeous, troubled musician.  They fall into a whirlwind romance that seems headed only for disaster when he keeps a horrible secret from her.  Can their relationship survive the tumult of high school drama and of Derek's secrets?

Things I Liked:
I enjoyed the story, a girl transformed from beast to beauty, but without the whole book focusing on that.  I really loved Beth's friend from home, Scott, who cared about her from the beginning, before the make over.  It was definitely a gut-wrenching sob story that will suck you into caring for the characters and what happens to them all.  I think the musical aspect brought something new and different to a rather well-used story line.

Things I Didn't Like:
It felt rather cliche in places, using some obvious plot devices that you could sometimes see pretty far in advance.  Also, it suffered from some cheese-factor issues as well.  But, if you can ignore some of those things, it's a book that will pull you in and then wring your eyes dry.  To be enjoyed by those who like Nicholas Sparks.

Read-alikes:
Reminded me of A Walk to Remember by Nicholas Sparks (probably anything of his)
Maybe a little like My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult

BOOK CONTENT RATINGS:
s-factor: !
a few throughout

mrg-factor: X
some implied things and a lot of serious kissing

v-factor: none

Overall rating: ***.5 (cause I cried) 

Do you enjoy reading melodramatic sob-stories once in a while? Apparently, I do! :)

If you buy through my Amazon linkage, I will get a very small percentage