Waiting On Wednesday #1

Im going to start participating in "Waiting on Wednesday" a weekly event hosted by Breaking the Spine where I tell you about an upcoming book that I'm excited about. 

This week the book I am waiting on is 

Bitterblue by Kristin Cashore

Publication Date: May 1st 2012

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Eight years after Graceling, Bitterblue is now queen of Monsea. But the influence of her father, a violent psychopath with mind-altering abilities, lives on. Her advisors, who have run things since Leck died, believe in a forward-thinking plan: Pardon all who committed terrible acts under Leck’s reign, and forget anything bad ever happened. But when Bitterblue begins sneaking outside the castle—disguised and alone—to walk the streets of her own city, she starts realizing that the kingdom has been under the thirty-five-year spell of a madman, and the only way to move forward is to revisit the past. Two thieves, who only steal what has already been stolen, change her life forever. They hold a key to the truth of Leck’s reign. And one of them, with an extreme skill called a Grace that he hasn’t yet identified, holds a key to her heart.

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Why am I excited?

Well, I loved the first two books so much and I can't wait for this next installment in the story of the seven kingdoms!

Plus, I can't wait to see more of Katsa and Po. :)

Top Ten Tuesdays #2

I am participating in the weekly meme hosted by The Broke and The Bookish. This week's theme is...

Top Ten Books I'd Give A Theme Song To

I gotta say that this weeks theme is a little tricky but I think I found the right matches. Tell me what you think. Oh and these aren't in any particular order. :)

1) Incarnate by Jodi Meadows: "New Soul" - Yael Naim. Now, I've only read the sample chapters on my kindle (don't worry Im going to get it soon) but I mean I feel like this song fits with the basic premise. "I'm a new soul. I came to this strange world hoping I could learn a bit 'bout what is true and fake. But since I came her felt the joy and the fear, finding myself making every possible mistake."

2) Graceling by Kristin Cashore: "Unbreakable" - Fireflight. This song I think works perfectly for Katsa and just how badass and "unbreakable" she is. "Now I am unbreakable, it's unmistakable. No one can touch me, nothing can stop me."

3) New Moon by Stephanie Meyer: "My Immortal" - Evanescence. I love this song, not a big fan of the books (although I used to be) but you gotta see how much this song works for Bella in this book."You're presence still lingers here, and it won't leave me alone. These wounds won't seem to heal. This pain is just too real."

4) Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins: "Me Against the World" - Simple Plan. Just listen to the first couple lines of the song and you'll see how perfectly it fits with the rebellion. Then later on the chorus really works for Katniss. "We're not gonna be just a part of their games. We're not gonna be just the victims."

5) Anna and The French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins: "Why Can't I" - Liz Phair. I feel like this song really captures how Anna feels about St. Clair, especially how they both know they're perfect for each other even though they're both in relationships when they first meet. "Why can't I breath whenever I think about you? Why can't I speak whenever I talk about."

6) Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte: "The Reason" - Hoobastank. This is more of a theme song for Mr. Rochester then the book as a whole but I had to put it in. It just works so perfectly. For those of you who've read the book you'll know what I mean. "I've found a reason for me to change who I used to be. A reason to start over new, and the reason is you."

7) Enthusiasm by Polly Shulman: "Stolen" - Dashboard Confessional. There aren't really any specific lyrics that work here but I just feel like this song captures the cuteness between Julie and Parr. "Before the gold and the glimmer have been replaced, another sun-soaked season fades away. You have stolen my heart."

8) The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen: "Go" - Boys Like Girls. I feel like this song really captures Macy's struggle to move past the death of her father and her constant efforts to appear perfect. "Get up and go. Take a chance move a long. You could spend your whole life holding on."

9) Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins: "Ever the Same" - Rob Thomas.  Once again this isn't quite a theme song for the entire book but more of a theme song for the relationship between Peeta and Katniss in this book. Im sure you'll agree that this song shows exactly why they are perfect for each other. "We were drawn from the weeds. We were brave like soldiers, falling down under the pale moonlight. You were holding to me like someone broken"


10) Impossible by Nancy Werlin: "Bridge Over Troubled Water" - Simon and Garfunkle. This song really captures Zach and everything Zach does for Lucy. I know I could've gone the easy way and chosen Scarborough Fair for this book but I wanted to try and be a little creative. "When you're weary, feeling small. When tears are in your eye I will dry them all. Im on your side when times get rough."


I did it! Please tell me what you think and if you did a Top Ten Tuesday leave a link to yours in my comments so it's easy to find! 

Shadowcry by Jenna Burtenshaw Book Review

Shadowcry by Jenna Burtenshaw
US Release Date: June 21st 2011
Publisher: Greenwillow Publisher
Author Info: Jenna Burten's blog
Source: Public Library
Genre: Young Adult Fantasy
Series: Wintercraft
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Buy it: Amazon / Barnes and Noble




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The Night of Souls -- when the veil between the living and the dead is thinnest -- is only days away.
Albion is at war...and losing.
The wardens have descended, kidnapping innocent citizens for their army, but looking for one in particular.


And fifteen-year-old Kate Winters had just raised a blackbird from the dead.


As her home is torn apart by the wardens, Kate's discovery that she is one of the Skilled -- the rare people who can cross the veil between life and death -- makes her the most hunted person in all of Albion. Only she can unlock the secrets of Wintercraft, the ancient book of dangerous knowledge. Captured and taken to the graveyard city of Fume -- with its secret tunnels and undergound villages, and where her own parents met their deaths ten years ago -- Kate must harness her extraordinary powers to save herself, her country, and the two men she cares for most. And she'll make a pact with a murderer to do it.


Those who wish to see the dark, be ready to pay your price.
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Onto the review!
(If you're too lazy to read my review you can just check out my video at CookieReadingCorner on Youtube)


Plot: The plot of Shadowcry is full and complex. There is a lot of surprises that work and help connect the many pieces of this novel together. The plot has even more depth because each character has an interesting back story so throughout the novel there are little clues that slowly bring all the pieces of the characters together, which I really liked. The world of Albion that Jenna Burtenshaw creates is rich and has it's own history and lore that Jenna Burtenshaw makes a key part of the story which I like because it makes the world seem more realistic and adds more levels to the novel itself.


Pacing: The story takes place over several days (3 or 4 I think) so that keeps the plot moving pretty well. However, it is not like you're speeding through the book. The pace is nice and even, more like jog then a sprint, with a couple moments to rest. I liked this because it gave you a good chance to really look at the world that Jenna Burtenshaw has created and get a better grasp for what was going on. 


Character: The characters were definitely my favorite part about this novel. Jenna Burtenshaw has made a wonderful cast of characters that you love and others that you hate, then a couple that stand right on the line. The protagonist, Kate Winters, is a solid yet realistic heroine. She freaks out, understandably, when she figures out that she is a Skilled and it takes her some time to get used to her powers. She isn't weak but she isn't "kick-ass" strong either. However, she is very smart and uses her wits to her advantage. Da'ru, the main villain, is the awesomely evil witch of the story. She is pure evil and easy to hate and plays her role perfectly. My favorite character, Silas Dane, is the one where you don't quite know if he is what he seems to be (which is pure evil). He is extremely well written and I love the back story that Jenna Burtenshaw provides for him and I feel like he really added more depth to the plot. Then Edgar, Kate's best friend, is a great and lovable character and friend to Kate. There is not any romance between them (although there is a hint at romance to come in the end) but I liked that.
                 Overall the characters are well-written, three dimensional, and play their roles out expertly.


Writing: The writing for Shadowcry had it's good moments and it's bad moments. Jenna Burtenshaw describes the world of Albion and the city of Fume very well and everything that happens with the veil is really cool in the way she describes it. Everything in this novel is very easy to visualize and get lost in in this novel.
               However, the only part that I had an issue with is the way Jenna Burtenshaw switched narrative. Yes, it was 3rd person omniscient but it'd switch from watching what Kate was doing to watching what Silas (or some other character) was doing from paragraph to paragraph at some points in such a way that it didn't quite connect...at least for me. After a while I was able to get used to it and I didn't notice it too much, but at first, the way it was written kind of separated the scene into little chunks instead of connecting the whole picture.


Overall: This book is very well done. It sets up an interesting and mysterious story line chock-full of captivating characters. The world of Albion is dangerous and full of magic and Jenna Burtenshaw really traps you in the pages. No, there isn't any romance but you probably won't mind that because everything else fills up the pages brilliantly. In this novel you see Kate's amazing potential to change the course of her world and Jenna Burtenshaw's potential to be an amazing author.

4 out of 5 stars

Should you read it?

Yes

Should you buy it?

Sure, but it isn't a must have 

The next book of the series is Blackwater it will be released June 26th 2012.

Booking Through Thursday

I'm going to start participating in the weekly meme Booking Through Thursday. Where every thursday they ask a question some how relating to books or book blogs and we answer them. This week's question is...

"What do you look for when reading a book blog? Does the blogger have to read the same genre? Do you like reviews? Personal posts? Memes? Giveaways? What attracts you to a book blog? And what are your favorite book blogs?" 

          To be completely honest, I love all kinds of posts on blogs. Of course I go for the book reviews but I also like seeing what other book related stuff they have to say. Especially when it's pertaining to books that may be coming out soon or interviews with authors. Blogs are my main connection to the "book world" and I'll take anything I can get.
       
         I think memes are a really cool way to connect with other bloggers and see what kinds of books other bloggers like. And, come on, who doesn't love giveaways? They're a chance to win free books! Awesome!
      
         However, when it comes to reviews there is a certain thing I am looking for. No, they don't necessarily have to review books in the same genre that I read, but it doesn't hurt. However, no matter what genre, when I read a book review I use it as a tool to gage whether or not I would like the book they are discussing. Not only just by telling me about the plot but also about the writing and the character development and so on and so forth. Sometimes I come across blogs that basically just tell me the synopsis in their own words and I don't find that very helpful.


      My favorite blog, with out a doubt, is probably The Story Siren. Her reviews are always really good, she does lots of cool things like cover reveals and author interviews, and she host the Debut Author Challenge (which I am currently participating in). Reading her blog was also what made me want to start a book review blog of my own.

Top Ten Tuesday #1

I am going to start participating in Top Ten Tuesday hosted by The Broke and The Bookish. This weeks theme is...

Top Ten Books I'd Quickly Save If My House Was Going To Be Abducted By Aliens

1) Wildwood Dancing by Juliet Marillier

    I love everything about this book from the characters to the cover and the beautiful world that Juliet creates. There's no way I could leave this behind.

2) Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

    This is my favorite classic. I really admire Jane and Im in love with Mr. Rochester, and I think they have the best chemistry together.

3) Inkheart by Cornelia Funke

    The first time I read this book I was in 5th grade and I've loved it ever since. It's probably my favorite book from my childhood.

4) The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen

    This book really helped me to think more about my life and my own personal quest for perfection. It kinda put things into perspective...plus I love the way Sarah Dessen does romance.

5) Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling

    I mean really, how could you leave this behind. It's the one that started it all.

6) The Complete Novels of Jane Austen
    It's one big book with all of her novels. Not only was this a present but it's also has the most classic love stories.


7) Graceling by Kristin Cashore
    I love Katsa. I love Po. And I love the world that Cashore has created. Plus I figure Katsa's grace would help me survive the idea of my house being abducted...or atleast give me some emotional support.


8) The Hobbit by J. R. R. Tolkein
    I could read about Bilbo's adventures while I undergo some alien infested ones of my own.


9) Daughter of the Forest by Juliet Marillier
    Sorcha is an inspiring character and I would not want to go without her...plus I adore Red!


10) The Giggler Treatment by Roddy Doyle
      I have really fond memories with my dad reading this book to my brother and me and I wouldn't want to leave it behind. This book is so hilarious (for adults and children)!

Evie-Bookish

Evie-Bookish is an awesome blogger that hosts the To-Be-Read Challenge. I have just started following her blog but I always appreciate her reviews whether or not I agree with them. Plus she does a lot of awesome give aways and blog tours.


She's currently doing a giveaway for the book Embrace which I've been looking forward to reading (especially once I read her review).


You should all definitely check out Evie-Bookish and all the awesome things she has to offer.

The Story Siren's Giveaway.

The Story Siren is doing a give away of A Beautiful Evil by Kelly Keaton and Faery Tales & Nightmares by Melissa Marr (whom I love!) and I'd really like to win!


Here is a link to The Story Siren's blog.
The Story Siren is an awesome book reviewer and my go to blogger when I want to know about any YA book.


And here is the link to the blog about the contest.
The give away post!


I really hope I win :)

Game of Thrones (A Song of Ice and Fire #1) Book Review

Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin
Genre: Adult High Fantasy
Publisher: Harper Voyager
Rating: 5/5 Stars




(My copy is the version that was released in England so the cover is different and the number of pages may differ as well)


Disclaimer: THIS IS NOT A YOUNG ADULT BOOK! I must caution all readers that this novel contains graphic descriptions of sex and violence. Yes it is still an excellent novel but it is not in any way shape or form meant for younger readers. 


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In the game of thrones, you win or you die.

As Warden of the north, Lord Eddard Stark counts it a curse when King Robert bestows on him the office of the Hand. His honour weighs him down at court where a true man does what he will, not what he must...and a dead enemy is a thing of beauty. The old gods have no power in the south, Stark's family is split and there is treachery at court. Worse, a vengence-mad boy has grown to maturity in exile in the Free Cities beyond the sea. Heir of the mad Dragon King deposed by Robert, he claims the Iron Throne.

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Onto the review! 

        This is a fantastic and complicated novel full of complex characters and treacherous villains. For those of you who have watched the TV series you should really read the novel because you get so much more depth and understanding for each of the characters. This novel immerses you in a world that so rich and full of history and life you can't possibly believe it is made up.

Plot:  The plot of this novel is EXTREMELY intricate and full of twists and turns. Its basically about three houses, the Starks (Good), the Lannisters (Bad), and the Baratheons (in the middle), fighting over the Throne...but there is a lot more to it then that. There are a thousand twists and turns that you would never expect and an ending to blow your mind and leave you begging to know what will happen next.

Pacing: The pacing is kind of slow, but for a good reason. There is a lot going on that George R. R. Martin wants to show you and he needs all 806 (that's right there are 806 pages) pages to help you understand. But don't worry all 806 pages are chock full of intrigue and adventure and suspense.

Characters: As expected from a high fantasy novel there are A LOT of characters. However, each and everyone of them is distinct in such a way that you are able to envision them as individual people. The main character, Eddard Stark or Ned, is the most honorable character I have ever met within the pages of a book. He knows the life-changing differences between right and wrong and he tries to pursue what  is honorable and just. You can't help but respect and adore Eddard as he tries to fight his way through the treacherous and conniving city of Kings' Landing. The other (main) characters are his wife Catelyn, his sons Bran and Robb, his daughters Arya and Sansa, and his bastard Jon Snow. Then there is Tyrion Lannister and Daenerys Stormborn. There are a dozen other crucial characters but if I tried to mention them all this review would take up the entire page.

Writing: The writing is excellent. Martin makes it easy to get lost in this foreign world with his expert use of description and story telling. Also, the book is sectioned off into the point of view of each of the characters mentioned above (except for Robb). This makes it easier to understand the way each character thinks and how their view of the Seven Kingdoms is unique to that character. This use of 3rd person limited narrative is a key part in your ability to understand the characters and the rich world they live in.

Overall: This book is fantastic. It is dark, complex, heart-wrenching, adrenaline pumping, and an all together exhilarating read. George R. R. Martin creates some characters you love to hate and others you will be utterly loyal to till the bitter end. His world is harsh and cold with just enough hope to keep you moving forward. 

In this novel George R. R. Martin sets you up for an exhilarating and terrifying series that is bound to grab you and never let you go. 

The next book in the series of A Song of Ice and Fire is A Clash of Kings

Tahereh Mafi's giveaway!

Hi Tahereh Mafi! I absolutely adore your book and cannot wait for more.


For your contest I would REALLY like package number #3 please :D


For anyone who wants to check out Tehereh Mafi's blog here is the link
 http://stiryourtea.blogspot.com/


and for her contest
http://stiryourtea.blogspot.com/2012/02/contest-and-winning-and-free-books.html

Book Review #5 - Shatter Me

                        

                   

Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi

Released: November 15, 2011
Publisher: HarperCollins
Genre: Young Adult
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
  "You can't touch me," I whisper.
    I'm lying, is what I don't tell him.
    He can touch me, is what I'll never tell him.
    Please touch me, is what I want to tell him.
    But things happen when people touch me.
    Strange things.
    Bad things.
    DEAD THINGS.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
** No one knows why Juliette's touch is fatal, but The Reestablishment has plans for her. Plans to use her as a weapon.
    But Juliette has plans of her own.
After a lifetime without freedom, she's finally discovering a strength to fight back for the very first time -- and to find a future with the one boy she thought she'd lost forever. **


Now for my review!


       Honestly, I loved this book! It has everything you look for in a Young Adult novel and so much more. From the plot to the writing to the character development it was all just fantastic.


Plot: I like that this is a relatively new idea. Yes, it's another dystopian novel BUT it has an awesome twist. It isn't like all those other dystopian novels where the main character is going along unnoticed by her corrupt government then slowly discovers the true horrors of whats going on. INSTEAD, Juliette already knows whats wrong with The Reestablishment and that they are bad (I mean really bad). Also, The Reestablishment wants her because of her ability and Juliette has to fight against them from a whole other level.
Overall, the plot is very unique and has many twists and turns that you don't expect. This book really keeps you on your toes.


Pacing: This book is very fast paced...but it works. It's exciting and you can't help but read it quickly. There's something happening on everypage! That's probably the only (very slight) problem I had with this book. Everything happens very quickly. For the most part its fine and it works that way but the author speeds through some time lapses that I would've liked for her to dwell on a little longer so I could better see the world that Juliette was experiencing,  if not just so I could take a breather.


Characters: I loved all characters in this, good and bad. Juliette was a great character because she grew in every page. She went from the weak (and slightly insane) girl trapped in a cell to this woman that was strong and confident and finally knew who she was. Adam was the perfect, tough, gorgeous protector with some light jokester moments mixed in. And Warner was fantastic at being so horribly corrupt. He was three-dimensional in such a way that I hated him and pitied him at the same time. I really can't wait to see more of him in the future.
All the characters were very real and three dimensional and so well thought out. The chemistry between Juliette and Adam is perfect in it's intensity and the intensity between Warner and Juliette is splendid as well.


Writing: The writing was PHENOMENAL. Tahereh Mafi did an excellent job of capturing Juliette's thoughts and feelings. At the beginning the writing is very poetic and beautiful. You see how fractured Juliette's mind has become and understand the pain she's felt her whole life. Because of Mafi's amazing writing I connected with Juliette immediately, and even as the book continued and Juliette was slowly able to compose herself I still felt very in tune with her (I almost cried at one point while Juliette was crying, which is very rare for me).


Overall: Fan-flippin-tastic book! It's exciting, romantic, thought-provoking, and utterly impossible. I reccomend this book to anyone who loves great writing, kick-ass characters, intense passion, and a plot thats filled with twists and turns.
              I can't wait to see what else Tahereh Mafi has in store for us in the future!


The sequel, Unravel Me, comes out February of next year. (I know I can't believe I have to wait a whole year either!)