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Awww, the school is such an adorable little cinnamon roll

Cute little mystery. Some of the elements were a bit predictable, but there were certain twists and turns that even I didn't see coming. I think the target audience would enjoy it.

Jalleen kerran hyva dekkari Jungstedtilta, tatakaan ei malttanut laskea kasistaan ennen kuin murhaaja oli selvilla. Taattua laatua yhdelta lempidekkaristiltani.

Ennesimo errore ahime... le belle cover stanno diventando uno specchietto per le allodole! La copertina di questo libro mi ha fatto l'occhiolino, ed io ho iniziato la lettura di questo young-adult sul paranormale, che pur avendo una trama interessante e originale si e rivelato un po' troppo young per me! Oramai ho sviluppato la capacita di intuire, gia dai primissimi capitoli, se un libro e in grado di rapirmi... temo che attualmente il genere fantasy stia diventando un susseguirsi ridondante di trame scopiazzate, con l'odioso e onnipresente triangolo amoroso! La nostra protagonista si chiama Evelyn un adolescente orfana che vive e lavora presso l'agenzia internazionale per il controllo del paranormale. Evie e un agente che armata del suo taser rosa riesce a neutralizzare le creature soprannaturali, perche e in grado di vedere al di la dell'aspetto comune delle persone. Infatti i un affascinante vampiro ai suoi occhi non e altro che carne morta e putrefatta (addio Edward Cullen!). I licantropi apparentemente violenti in realta nascondono un'indole fragile e tenera... fate tutt'altro che dolci a lei appaiono bisbetiche e inaffidabili, come il suo ex fidanzato Reth! Evie una ragazza (normale) e interamente circondata dal paranormale. Persino la sua amica del cuore Lish e un'adorabile sirena verde che comunica con lei attraverso un monitor. E Raquel, la sua educatrice/quasi mamma che si e presa cura di lei quando era poco piu che una bimba. La vita di Evie scorre cosi tra una missione e una puntata del suo adorato telefilm, fino a quando nel centro, dopo un intrusione, lei cattura un mutaforma Preston (neanche a farlo apposta bellissimo!) tutto perfetto penserete... ma quando mai! Evie subisce le insistenti e soffocanti attenzioni del suo ex Reth che le tende di continuo trappole amorose. Eccolo il tanto odiato triangolino amoroso di ormoni adolescenziali! Evie sin da subito si prende una cotta per Prestom ... (anche io). Da li il via alla vera azione, fughe, segreti, profezie sotto forma di versi renderanno la seconda parte piu viva e intensa. Evie si trovera a vivere il suo sogno integrarsi con i suoi coetanei, normali liceali che studiano, fanno shopping e si preparano per andare al ballo della scuola. La scoperta della sua vera natura la rendera insicura e timorosa... sempre tentata da cio che vorrebbe e da cio che e giusto per lei. La storia e frizzante e allegra, in certi punti esilarante e in altri romantica ma... non mi ha catturata tanto. Forse e decisamente troppo young per me, mi aspettavo un risvolto piu interessante invece spesso e lenta sopratutto la prima parte! Dolce, impavida, brillante e con un grande bisogno di protezione, Evie e una deliziosa protagonista... sempre vestita di rosa. Preston affascinante e premuroso conquisterebbe ogni ragazza, anche per il fatto che puo mutare il suo aspetto con tutti i fighi dei telefilm. Reth una fata ragazzo pericoloso e irresistibile, apparentemente innamorato di Evie nasconde piu segreti che buone intenzioni. Mi auguro che il secondo capitolo della trilogia abbandoni questi toni troppo adolescenziali e la storia diventi piu paranormale. Una lettura leggera e semplice, adatta ad un pubblico giovane o a chi non pretende tanto da un fantasy. Voto: 2,5 stelline

Fascinating and informative. Historical 'crash course', really. And I never want to buy anything from China, ever. Possibly impossible but my aspiration is to provide no support to a regime responsible for genocide.

Ah. This book. Thank you Michelle Hodkin, thank you.

See full review for Cinder at: https://toomanybooksnotenoughshelves.... Before I even start this review, I want to be clear, I'm slightly biased towards Meyer's writing, only because when I was a young, just starting out fanfic writer, her Sailor Moon fanfics were the ones I turned to when I was in need of a good, emotional, story. Her fairy tale replay of the Grimm stories has made me cry, many, many times. Also, I originally read this book when it was first released, I just figured I'd give it another read through before I continue on with the series - whose books have indeed sat on my bookshelf unread for years (believe me, it's a long story). Okay? Okay. From the summary of this book, Cinder doesn't seem to be the type of book that was up my alley. Science fiction, cyborgs, androids, the science of it alone would probably go over my head. However, because it was a new take on a beloved fairy tale I'd figured I'd give it a shot and what better book to start reading after a Game of Thrones book? And you know what? It was good.

3.9 stars.

Let me start by saying that I loved the first book, The Last Victim. I was eager to read the sequel and had high hopes. I'm sad to say that the book didn't live up to my expectations. I liked it, I just didn't love it. If the book was a straight mystery/thriller, I would give the book high scores. I loved the hunt for the Gingerbread Man. I also thought the way he kills people was interesting and ingenious. That part of the story-line definitely kept me guessing and when the serial killer was revealed, I was genuinely surprised. The part of the book that I didn't like was the romance. Charlie is in love with a ghost. The attraction was kind of cool in the first book, but I'm not so sure it worked for me in this one. What got tiring was the many times that Charlie tells us that she can't love a ghost, that it will never work and that she should just move on. I also got tired of hearing how hot and sexy Michael was and how it made Charlie hot and bothered. I think by the third chapter, I got it. I also began to not like how she was kind of toying with Tony's feelings. He really wants to be with her and she keeps stringing him along. The whole thing is kind of a weird love triangle. I'm hoping there is a good resolution to this in the next story. The book ends in a kind of cliffhanger, so I do look forward to seeing what happens next.

Interesting, powerful, at times challenging poetry. Worth a look.

Great for adults who enjoy both fiction and nonfiction. The dry humor throughout is fantastic.

4.5 stars. Stella Jo used to compete as a show jumper. Growing up on her family ranch, her mother pushed Stella to be perfect--and Stella pushed herself, too, hoping to gain some acknowledgment from her father, a taciturn man. In fact, the only love Stella felt growing up was the love she experienced with her horse. Then, Stella fell while competing and broke her leg badly. Her beloved horse was too injured, and put down. Stella's heart was broken, and she hadn't returned to her family's ranch since--she spent four years at college and just landed a job at a drug rehab facility in Dallas, a few hours from home. On her first day there she meets "Mr. Walker" a celebrity client of the facility--one all the female staff are swooning for. Stella swoons, too, she's just not capable of processing her attraction--too many years of shutting down her emotions. Lead singer Van Ransom is plagued by the demons of his childhood: his drug addict mother and too-young death of his older sister, Valerie. He's been in and out of rehab before, with no effect. But this time his record contract is on the line: he must shape up, or the band goes on. Without him. He's prepared to say all the right things to get through, but meeting the aloof Stella Jo turns his head. Van's used to the attention of women--and some of the nurses at Second Chance Ranch aren't averse to a little "private therapy"--but the enigmatic care coordinator seems impervious to Van's charms. Or, is she.... This "rock romance" is unique in that, there is no rock--and the romance is rocky. I really enjoyed seeing Stella come to life. It seemed she was completely emotionally shut down--too busy looking for the next curve in her path to see the lush scenery in her view. She's scarred from too little love, and isn't sure she can even accept love from anyone. Yet, being around Van startles her into sensing her own passion. Unfortunately she can't act on it. Being intimate with a patient is grounds for immediate termination--which would send Stella back to her family home. And that's a place she won't even visit, let alone move back to live. Van is, however, relentless in his pursuit. He volunteers to work in the horse stables so he can spend time with Stella--who continually brushes him off. His mind is driven to distraction, so much so, he actually connects with his therapist and begins confessing his long-secret horrors of growing up in an addict's care, or lack thereof. While none of Van's friends or band mates believe Van will get clean and sober, Van goes the extra distance to entice Stella. For this broken rocker and emotionally-vacant woman, a superficial connection is all one would expect, but the attraction develops into a mutual compassion, a desire to fill the others' needs. For the first time Van can remember, he acts unselfishly--both emotionally and as a lover. He doesn't want a quick hit from Stella--he wants...more. Add the complications of surveillance by Stella's superiors and co-workers, a stalker ex-fiance, and Van's buddies popping in with drugs (just in case) and it seems both Stella's job and Van's contract are set to implode. Good thing Stella's well-practiced at hiding her emotions and Van's self-control can tolerate this rarely-exercised application. Here's what I loved about the book: it wasn't glossy. Stella and Van don't fall into bed the first day, or the first week. They stumble. They overreact. They blame and judge and make decisions 'for the good' of someone else. Truly, I had a little trouble with the depth of their attraction following one chance encounter, but the romance was slow to develop, and the sexual tension was excruciating. Just when it looked like they were going to get it on, somebody would interrupt and complicate everything. The writing is solid, and the romance steams. The progression of their relationship is well-paced and the smexytimes are stimulating, not sloppy. Van has a very filthy mouth, which makes for some fun dialogue. I really liked how Stella reconciled with her parents. Her newfound strength--acquired from beating off Van's advances--was interesting. At times I thought the superficiality of Stella's earlier relationships felt a bit exaggerated, but it was clear that she was making choices to connect with Van and new friends, Miranda and Jesse, in a way she never attempted before. The 'horse therapy' was a nice twist on the usual rehab tale.

Vau, ylellinen ja upeasti piiretty fantasiaseikkailu vikkelasta Liljasta, joka kinuaa varkaiden killalta kunniakkaampia ryostooperaatioita. Nuori varas kaappaa karsittamattomana itselleen tehtavan, mutta paatyykin pelinappulaksi ahneen jaarlin juoneen. Tama oli ilo!

Listened to audiobook. Characters are flat and predictable. The writing is uneven and uninspired. While I'm certain this shouldn't bother me as much as it did, what teenager today is named 'Olive'? I felt that every plot point was dealt with superficially, and there were so, so many. Including fewer and explorIng them in more depth might have enhanced the novel.

See full review for The Unfortunate Miss Fortunes at: http://toomanybooksnotenoughshelves.w... If you liked Maybe This Time and Wild Ride by Jennifer Crusie, then you're going to love this book. I liked it, even though there were a few parts where I was just like, are you kidding me? So, this book centers on the three Fortune sisters - Dee, Lizzie, and Mare - who are witches. But that's not all they are. It turns out that their parents were also magically gifted and cashed in on their gifts by hosting a television show. When their parents died, Dee took her sisters and went into hiding. She has the assumption that her aunt Xan killed her parents for their powers and is coming after Dee and her sisters for theirs. She's right, and Xan will stop at nothing to get them. The problem is, she already knows where the sisters are, and she has been watching them for a while. She knows that they are close to giving up their powers anyway, they just need a push in the right direction. Hence, she casts a True Love spell that brings the sisters' true loves to town. The catch is that these True Loves can't stand magic and the only way the sisters can be with them is if they give up their powers. Easy, right? Wrong.

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Do you need a fix of shapeshifters and magic - well this is the book for you - come join Jodie and Reid on their journey - thru the ups and downs of Jodie's life and not feeling safe around her own family - Reid who knows the minute he sees Jodie that she is the one for him - another must read by Kathi S Barton

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I greatly enjoyed this survey of creative individuals by Paul Johnson. The chapters on Durer, Balanciago, and Tiffany were particularly good.

3.5.stars

I absolutley loved Pushing the Limits so I knew I would be reading more of her books. Dare You To was a good follow-up to Pushing the Limits, I loved that we got a little update on Noah and Echo. Beth is Noah's foster sister so that have a brother/sister relationship. Beth's life is just a mess, not her fault though. She has the bad girl look and doesn't have time for guys like Ryan, the jock. Ryan takes on a dare to date Beth and that turns into something more than what they both are expecting. Beth and Ryan both try to fight it, they run into many obstacles and people trying to force them apart. They literally have to fight to be together, I'm all for making love stories more realistic but it just seemed like they really had a lot of problems between the two of them to just be together. I do have a complaint though, all the swearing. It's just so surprising how much the f word was used. It's completely unnecessary, this is aimed for teens and young adults. I guess when the word is not part of your vocabulary and you're intelligent enough to come up with another word than a nasty swear word, it's just appalling. Rant over. I'm looking forward to reading Crash Into You and see what's in store for Isaiah, I really liked him and what him to find someone to love too.

interesting closure of this supernatural serie. nice read.

Mielenkiintoinen ja otteessaan pitava romaani, jonka ruumiinavausten yksityiskohdat saavat toivomaan, ettei oma kuolema ole vakivaltainen ja johda ruumiinavaukseen.

Fan-frigging-tastic!!!! I took a chance and requested this book to review and I am so luck that I got the opportunity to do so as this book was FANTASTIC!!!! I loved it. From the characters to the story. Echo and Noah break your heart for what they had to endure in life. Mrs.Collins the clinical social worker is fabulous you wish there were more care givers in the system to make it an easier place to live in when things get tough. Echo's friends for the most part are typical douches who think popularity is more important then the actual person you want to be friends with well except Lila who is great and is a true friend. Noah's friends are atypical but great while being a little hard on the edges but have Noah's back. Echo's family life and history is so so shocking and fascinating at the same time. I think the chemistry between Echo and Noah is fantastic and love that they have found what they need in each other. I have been thinking about this book non stop since I put it down which to me is always a measure of a great book when it seeps into your soul. I recommend this book to ALL and can NOT wait for the companion novel Dare you to. I give this book a definite 5 thumbs up for sure!

Loved it. Wish there was more of it.

Do pop by and visit me here! I'm always up for a chat! I'm reviewing Sold for the Greek's Heir, by Lynne Graham. Gosh! I think I may have rambled on too much with this one... Here's what I thought: ^^ Now, I've always considered myself not a typical Mills and Boon reader, but I've picked up a few recently and been pleasantly surprised how enjoyable they are. There's much more to these books than just an airy-fairy romance. They're meatier than you think, whilst still keeping that lovely romantic element to them, which are key to these books. ^^ Take this one for instance, at only 197 pages it's a short read, but it's packed with family drama, a will-they-won't-they romance, and you get a guaranteed happy ever after. ^^ Lucy was treated badly by her boyfriend, Jax, a couple of years back, and just before he dumped her she discovered she was pregnant. She tried to do the honourable thing and tell him, but when she went back she was removed from his premises by his staff with no explanation. What had happened for him to do this to her? Admittedly, he's got money, and has a bit of a playboy attitude, but that's still no excuse to treat her so badly, even if he had just grown bored of her. ^^ Now, back to the present time, Jax is back in her life, and there's an undeniable chemistry between them they're finding hard to escape, but can she forgive him for dumping her like that? And what of their child? What if he finds out about her and wants to take her away from him? Lucy is not one to go down without a fight if needs be, but Jax can be very domineering. He also has a lot of money, and with money comes power. ^^ I like Lynne Graham's work. In the past I've also read authors like Ally Blake, Kate Hardy and Kim Lawrence, and enjoyed them, too; enough to keep coming back for more! ^^ I was lucky enough to get this copy from Netgalley, however, I didn't realise this was a final book in a series of three. It doesn't say on the cover and it's not until I looked it up on GoodReads to add it to my TBR pile, that I realised this. With this in mind, I have to say how we meet Lucy's sisters towards the very end of the book. They're fun characters, who'd just met, but the book finished before we got to know them. I had a assumed they'd be in a follow on book, where they'd be featured more heavily as the new-to-Lucy family. But upon my research, I've discovered they were in the previous books. So this story pretty much reads as a standalone anyway. Overall: This was much better than I anticipated. The romance is well written, and there's plenty of family drama to get involved in and of course, it has a lovely happily ever after romance readers all know and love.

This took a while for me to get into. I really wanted to like it - and yet for about half the book I struggled. The writing is witty and amusing, the plot cleverly constructed, but the narrator is just so *present*. I am someone who normally likes to get lost in a book. I enjoy a book if I forget I'm reading it, if the characters and the images are planted in my mind as I read with no intermediary. This was not the case with this book - the imagery is certainly vivid, the characters memorable, but the narrator makes himself heard. You can hear the author writing. You can see him doing his utmost to be witty and clever. And while his tone is certainly amusing, I personally felt it detracted from the story somewhat. At least, that is, until all the seemingly separate threads of the story got tangled up into impending doom for everyone, and then I got so completely sucked into the fate of the cast of characters who'd snuck into my head that I finally forgot I was reading, and the book balanced into masterful storytelling. The characters are brilliant and it would make an excellent film.

4 STARS This was a quick read, mainly because I couldn't put it down. Jax was completely sincere and my heart broke for Sadie and him as they figured out how to make a relationship work with both people having feet planted in two different worlds.

Ever since I started reading the Stephanie Plum series by Janet Evanovich, I have been on a quest to find good mysteries with colorful and amusing characters. After finishing Officer Elvis, I think I have found just such a series. This is the second book featuring Darla Cavannnah. I haven't read the first one, but I will be seeking it out. This time around, Darla is trying to solve the murder of her old partner, Tommy "Officer Elvis" Ryelander. She ends up with a new partner and a case that ends up being more convoluted than she bargained for. I really liked Darla.She is a smart no-nonsense cop and an all around likable character. I also liked that she was tall. Sometimes I get tired of reading about small, under 5 feet women. I loved how she kept correcting people's English. The story is rounded out nicely with great peripheral characters for Darla to interact with. Even though this is supposed to be a stand alone, I do wish I had read the first one before this to get a better feel for the relationship between Darla and her boss as well as her husband. This will definitely be on my recommend list!

I tend to like books with more dialogue and less narratives about their inner thoughts... Those are the parts I skimmed through. There's a lot of hype about this story so I read it to the very end and felt just "ok". There was a disconnect for me with believing someone blacks out when dealing with death and doesn't recognize reality from delusions. I have to feel the story is believable no matter how dark it may be. The ending was just confusing to me and didn't give me the wow factor.

One of my favorites. GREAT for storytimes.

An interesting analysis of the influence of Amelia Earhart on modern feminism from a NY University historian. Can be a little dry, but if you are interested in Amelia Earhart and/or feminism in the United States of America, this book is well worth reading.

A boy goes on an pretend safari. The story is similar to going on a bear hunt and is a terrific book to use as a library read aloud followed by a story craft lesson. Students loved saying the refrain "Hike away, Hike away". Kids also loved that they also play like animal cookies are real when they eat or play with them.

Unfortunately, Aaron's Star Wars has settled thoroughly into the "OK" range. Oh, this volume makes better use of our core characters than its predecessor. The Han and Leia interactions are particularly charming. It's also a fun caper. However, the plotting is ultimately pretty shallow, with the fights against super-Troopers being largely dependent on plot fiat, and everything is just a little too simple and self-contained, like Aaron's telling a new (shallow) movie every volume. And gosh, those Obi-Wan stories have become interminable. Still, I gave this one 3.5 stars.

DNF, I only got to 50 pages, the story felt lengthy and the whole plot to me felt like it was going slow.

I've not read a book quite like this-- theology, culture, history, current events, geography, and memoir all rolled into one. It took some getting used to, but it is quite enjoyable.

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actual rating 3.5 stars ARC provided by Image Comics through Netgalley Attend the song of Deathface Ginny, and how she come to be A wraith of rage for men who'd cage and harm what should be free It all began when the Mason man took Beauty for his bride He quick turned a fool and made her a jewel In the crown of his glittering pride He'd loved that gal since they were kids, a Beauty for more than her skin, But he crushed that joy, when he made her a toy To tease before covetous men Overcome with the fear that he'd lose her, he built a prison of stone She said, "I'll die from despair if you put me in there!" ...If only he'd listened, if only he'd known. With no one else to talk to, Beauty prayed to the cold God that made her "If I can't see the sky then let me die. "And she begged for Death to come take her He ought to have sent a reaper, but when he heard her sad song from above He went himself for the girl And the end of the world began when Death fell in love He stayed too long in that tower, and his heart grew desperate and wild 'Til he gave what she asked and Death wept as she passed For Beauty left Death with a child. The sun set and the moon rose, one end and one beginning He freed Beauty's soul But he kept the child whole and Death named his baby girl Ginny He raised her a reaper of vengeance, a hunter of men who have sinned If you done been wronged, say her name, sing this song Sound the bell's knell that calls her from hell... Ginny rides for you on the wind, my child... Death rides on the wind! So begins Pretty Deadly, and it sums up the story of several of its characters. I LOVED the concept, I LOVED the artwork, I LOVED the colours... but the narrative didn't quite rise to everything it promised. For one thing, it was too disjointed. It needed to be disjointed for this tale to work and to give it that dreamy feel, but it meandered too much... I can't imagine how aggravating it must have been for those reading issue by issue, I was a little lost even with the whole first volume providing answers to my questions. The concept is gorgeous, and the artwork and colours are absolutely amazing, look: But, as I said, it didn't quite work for me. It took too many detours which, admittedly, were explained by the end, but made for a very frustrating reading experience until I got to those answers. Mind you, the artwork alone makes this worth reading, but it still left me with the sense of something unfulfilled... Still, that may just be me, so make sure to check it out!

Had a bit of a mind blow when I encountered this sentiment: Immortal does not mean eternal. Truly, there are subtleties to the words. Immortal means to not die, to not be liable to death, whereas, Eternal means forever existing. But if something doesn't die, it's eternal, right? No. If it was created, it can be uncreated. And, it turns out, the pantheon of Greek gods was created. Who knew? So, why am I waxing all philosophical about the shades of difference between immortal and eternal? Simple. Got meself an ARC of ANTIGODDESS, due out September 10th, Book One in the The Goddess War series by Kendare Blake--so I read it. Definitely liked it. What's it about, you wonder? Greek gods living-or I should say dying-in the here and now. I see you over there shaking your head and wagging that pointy appendage. Yes, you, you beady-eyed provincial! Of course, contemporary mythology is an oxymoron. Gimmick, you say? Point well taken, but-gimmick or no-this YA yarn tracking the end of the Titans is a stellar read. This multi-viewpoint adventure tracks sibling gods, Athena and Hermes, as they endeavor to discover what force of the universe is killing them. Athena's choking on owl feathers developing within her body. Hermes is ravaged by a steady fever. Both retain some of their god-like powers-strength, wit, speed--but each are diminished. The key to their survival seems to be held by a teen psychic, Cassie--the reincarnation of Cassandra of Troy--whom they must find. Only Cassandra can foresee how to defeat the enemy gods who wish to finish Athena and Hermes off prematurely. Cassandra wishes she knew why her visions don't extend past her 18th birthday. Will she be alive, or will her powers simply expire? What she does know is she loves Aiden, but their relationship falls into serious jeopardy when she learns his epic past. Is he even human? This book ends with a solid battle and more than one god bites it. I would not call it a happy ending--but it is a satisfactory resolution. Throughout we get an imaginative look at Odysseus, Apollo, Poseidon, Hera, Aphrodite, and the stage is set for Book Two--no question. I loved how each god had his/her own unique mannerisms. Athena-goddess of war and wisdom-is naturally austere, and totally fashion unaffected. Meanwhile Hermes-messenger of the gods and god of thieves-is a creature of comfort and has no qualms stealing the best clothes, food or lodgings on their travels. Though this is YA I really found the sexual tension between Athena and her favored hero, Odysseus, to be interesting. ANTIGODDESS is clean as a whistle and age-appropriate to young teens, so I wonder how this attraction will play out in the coming books. And now I'm wondering how to get me a copy of the next book... PS Giving away my ARC to a commenter on my ANTIGODDESS review on my blog...ends Aug 23. US only. Check it out here: http://vsreads.com/2013/08/19/behold-...

Bunce just keeps getting better - third time's a charm, I can't WAIT for Liar's Moon.

Thus I became a madman. And I have found both freedom and safety in my madness; the freedom of loneliness and the safety from being understood, for those who understand us enslave something in us. hkdh Srt mjnwnan wlkny wjdt bjnwny hdh, lHry@ wlnj@ m`an Hry@ lnfrd, wlnj@ mn 'n ydrk lns kyny .l'n ldhyn yudrkwn kynn nm yst`bdwn b`D m fyn It is beautifully inspiring! It took me one hour to swim deeply in Gibran's wide ocean of ideas! Literary speaking from a fanciful point of view, One has to read this masterpiece by the breathing of the heart. Gibran's idyllic feelings lead me to quench my literay,artistically and philosophically thirst by his outstanding fountain of wisdom. The Madman is a book full of joy,'queer' thoughts, vivid brightness and love of wisdom.It is a light that can enlighten a reader's inner path.

Captivating and fast, but too science in parts. I don't mind it but it seemed to be over the top. The characters are a bit flat too but it was a decent book.

Cute little story, who can resist a Were with a gay vamp best friend? It struck just the right amount of fun and intrigue with some romance between the leading man and leading lady to add spice. Loved the story and will look for more in the series.

Source: eARC for Honest Review from Author Holy Shitballs this book was amazing. After being gutted by The Last Hour I had to find out more with this family. This book starts off with the youngest sister Andrea making her way back to the US to get tested for a chance to be a bone marrow match for Carrie and Ray's daughter Rachel. As soon as she lands on US soil all hell breaks loose and she gets kidnapped and then the world as the Thompson girls know it gets blown wide open. All the lies and secrets is astonishing. Charles Sheehan-Miles is a mastermind how he keep all of this tangled web straight and keeps you roped in and on the edge waiting for all the secrets to come out. I can NOT believe how much of a clusterfuck the poor Thompson girl's lives are right now. Right now I'm on a I think I know what is coming but honestly I don't have a hot clue because there are so many twists and turns that I am left waiting... because it is left with a bloody cliffhanger. So many elements left unturned and I NEED to know what is going to happen with everything. I can NOT wait for book number 2. For more reviews, visit Live Read and Breathe Like us on Facebook Live Read and Breathe Facebook Follow along with Twitter Live Read and Breathe Twitter

Well, I loved the pictures. I guess I would like to have seen the book written in chronologcal order in the life of an octopus. Did I learn something? Yes. There were some things that were not clear to me like I think I finally figured out the eyes? I am still not clear on the beak? Maybe some arrows would have helped me a bit more. I did not know that they had 3 hearts though. This book is for an older reading child. It can be read in one sitting but it jumps around so you'll have to organize it in your head, lol!

Again, as a crossover title, this didn't do too much to hold my interest -- it was mostly Zatanna's very tentative involvement that kept me invested. And the fact that I miss the good ol' bastard John Constantine.

7th& up Rich is the word that comes to mind when describing Destiny Soria's YA novel Iron Cast. Characters, setting, world building, relationships, plotting; all the elements of this story are well crafted and completely captivating. Unlikely best friends Corinne and Ada live in 1919 Boston, at a time when prohibition is a real threat, and people with the ability to create illusions through their artistic talents can make a killing through scams and performances- but run the risk of running afoul of the law or the gangs. When some of their friends at the Cast Iron nightclub are attacked, and then other begin to disappear, the girls band together to try and discover who is after them before they're the next to disappear- or worse. Highly recommended! Thank you to Abrams Books and NetGalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

My son takes after his father. He is a re-reader, far more than I am. His current re-read obsession is Dragons, Dragons edited and illustrated by Eric Carle. It's a library book from his elementary school and his name is the only name in it for the last three check-outs. I can see why he loves it, it's a fantastic bestiary with quotes from a number of authors and well known book and each mythical beast is illustrated in Eric Carle's unique style. The book has mythical beasts from around the world including western and Chinese dragons, Greco-Roman beasts, Egyptian beasts, Australian ones and Sean's personal favorite Anansi the spider. Along with the illustrations, each beast has a little bit of poetry. For instance, the western dragon has a quote from Anne McCaffrey. Other authors included are Sir Richard Burton, John Gardner, X. J. Kennedy, Laura Whipple, William Blake, Myra Cohn Livinginston and many others. There is a full bibliography in the back of the book for anyone interested. Dragons, Dragons is not a typically short Eric Carle book. It is sixty-eight pages of complex text and sometimes hard to pronounce words. It typically takes us two nights (of about ten minutes each) of reading the book when I read it out loud. It though is worth the effort and may very well inspire discussions of mythology, poetry, history and geography.

see full review @ Katie's Corner When I first was raking up this manga to read I was thinking, this might be a typical vampire story thingy. Though when you are talking about manga the word typical can only be addresses to one genre: Shoujo & Romance. I think I was looking for something similar to "Orange Marmelade" by Seok Woo, but they have absolutely nothing in common except the word supernatural in their genre section. From the very beginning it started fast, maybe even too fast, but I guess I just didn't read the summary, so I was missing out a lot of stuff. The author doesn't solely focus on one particular character, it might be even true to say that even though Tsukimiya is a main character, and she sometimes acts as a supporting one. New volume, new chapter and a new character and all of these new characters are so different that you are lost in them, but no matter how different they may seem, they all have something in common and that is: Greed for power or in other words ambition to become the next God. No, no, I didn't just make a mistake there. They realy want to become the next god. The story begins with a half angel Tsukiyama and Hinata seeking a pureblood demon to lift their curse. They do defeat the guy, but due to betrayals from Hinata and a really risky step from Tsukiyama both of them are still left with the curse. So, they now are seeking a book of prophecy and are really hoping, that it will have enough power to lift both of their curses. What I was really enjoying in this manga is that every character has his/her personal agenda. They do not care who they will align now or betray in the next moment. It's just like the saying: "means justify the end". However, there is a bit of romance, mainly between Tsukiyama and Hinata, however, it is always on edge. You never know what is going to happen next. No need to even guess, because the intrigue is so intense, it may drive you to jump pages to then go back because somehow everything got different just in the few pages that you missed. No matter what I say here, I won't be able to fully tell you what I think about it, why? First, I haven't finished it yet, and am desperately searching for next chapters in English. Second, if I started, I wouldn't have kept it all to myself and would have just spoilt the whole excitement this manga might bring you. I hope you try it out. 8 volumes are already in English and next two are being released in 2016. Or you can just go to online websites and read it there. Well if you know French you may get all ten volumes. Hope you'll get the same feelings as I got from reading it. XOXO Katie

It's sort of impossible not to love the ragtag bunch that is the Rat Queens. My only wish is that there was more of it to read. Right now. But that's just greed talking.

Wow.

Still working my way thru Sandra Brown's backlist. I was happy to see some of her audiobooks on Scribd. Then I opened my kindle version to read along and realized I'd been listening to an abridged version. WHOA. Such a difference! Her older work is less enjoyable than her more recent work and I think I would have liked this more were I reading it instead of listening to it. Still there were some questions that needed answers and that's what kept me going.

This third and final book was amazing! I could not put it down. This series is very different from others I've read and I really enjoyed it.

Great combination of story and art with humor and heart. Being tough is harder than it looks. Congrats on the 2017 Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor.

Beautiful, insightful and interesting!

This book makes me think this is what life would be like if we hadn't gone with Christ's plan and had no free agency.

Read this review and others like it at Brains and Beauty. I devoured the first book in this series, I think I read it in only two days. This one was a completely different story. It took me over a week to finish this one. It's just simply starts off really slow. It does grab you like the first one does. Frankly I was bored through the first bit of it. But, I persevered because I loved the first one so much, and I'm so happy I did because I think this one might be better than the first! Once, the story gets going it's really interesting and kinda funny even though I think its supposed to be more funny. Let me give you a little taste of this book, it contains ghosts of Anne Boleyn and King Henry VIII. And King Henry VIII is evil, very evil. Plus, as a bonus for those who read the first book, Marcus Dent is back! Not like it's a surprise, but it was done in a good way, not over the top cheesy. This time the story was actually scary, which is good. To sum it the story up quickly Meg is servant to Princess Elizabeth and also a witch. Elizabeth asks to see her dead mother, they do a spell and something evil stays behind, her plus some new characters must find a way to send it back to the other side while also dealing with the return of Marcus Dent. Oh, and her and Alejandro must work on their odd priest, witch relationship. This book also sees the return of Master Dee and now he has a young servant with him as well. And I love how his character challenges Meg. We learn a little bit more about Alejandro, but I would still love to learn more about him and his past. I'm very curious to see where the series will go next in the third, and I believe final book Witchrise. Overall, I think this was a great fun and entertaining book, especially for those who love historical fiction because you will probably recognize some of the characters. Although, it starts off a bit weak and boring it quickly picks up and the ending is well worth it.

Cute book, but it just didn't have the 'it' factor. I felt like the characters were going through the motions and the author was trying too hard to make it like other fantasy novels, which didn't give it much room to be its own novel. It was just an alright read.

Anthony Rapp, may be a good actor, but he is a horrible writer. Wow. I only stuck with it, because I have this sick habit of finishing books that I have started. Sigh. I do want to resee the movie----or the show if it was not done.

When you start reading this story it sucks you right in. The characters are great and the storyline is awesome. Once you start reading it you won't want to stop. Would definitely recommend to everyone. Congrats C. Miller on a great read.

This is a solid breeze read, with a bit of angst and smoking hot sexytimes. Coco and Nick fell in love back in college. They struggled in their relationship, mostly because Nick had a loose definition of the word honesty But they continued to reconnect. Except the last time when they jetted off to Vegas, had a quickie wedding and Coco woke to find Nick's ring and a note on her nightstand in the honeymoon suite. Coco was devastated and her parents arranged an annulment. That was seven years ago and Coco still has a crushed spirit regarding Nick, who is a celebrity chef with a renown restaurant not far from where Coco lives in downtown Detroit. Now, Coco is working with her BFF Mia at their events planning business and her demanding client is adamant that Coco get Nick to help cater her engagement party. Caught between her broken heart and the commission she needs for a down payment on her dream house, Coco bites the bullet and contacts Nick. He's as suave as she remembers, unfortunately, and is happy to help with the party...if Coco will spend a weekend with him. Impetuous as ever, Coco agrees, thinking that setting some ground rules will keep everything professional. Then, she practically jumps him. Her muddled feelings are all the more potent when Nick admits he's loved her all this time, and explains how shattered he was to leave her-how he never intended her to give up her education, which is what she planned the second they said, "I do." The weekend is fraught with hot and cold-hot sex, heated discussions, and cold remorse over years wasted. Nick is never more clear about his desires. As a kid he was intimidated by Coco's family's wealth and never felt good enough, but now he's successful and able to be a good provider, if only Coco will give him a chance. Spoiler: she does. Spoiler: he kinda messes up again. Spoiler: they live HEA anyway. This book isn't as straight-out sexyfun as FRENCHED, because it's a reconnection tale. The water never passed under Coco and Nick's bridge, despite seven years going by. While they are still overwhelmingly attracted to each other, they have a lot of work to do if they want this relationship spark to blaze. Nick seems all in from the start. I admired his tenacity. Coco is a bit flighty, but I could totally relate to her misgivings over Nick. As she remarked: What fool takes a second bite from a bad apple? I was glad she took that bite, and I know she was, too. For an erotic romance, there was definitely a good balance between heat and heart. Looking forward to the final book in this series!

Several poems in here resonate so much within me. I've had this book since high school, and I recited John S. Hall's poem, "It's Saturday" as my graduation speech. Of course, "Love Letter to His Dick" is a fabulous poem, too, but in a slightly less profound way.

The day I turned ten Our church was quiet. No meetings, no marches. Mama left me in Sunday school With a soft kiss and coins for the offering plate. With a seemingly simple free verse poem, Carole Boston Weatherford has brought us compelling account of the bombing of the Sixteenth Street Baptist Church that killed four young girls. Photographs of the Civil Rights Movement and of the aftermath of the bombing illustrate the pages. This is an incredibly moving book. Even though I read it in five minutes, I found myself going back, re-reading, and carefully studying the photographs. I learned things too - I had no idea that children were so important in the Birmingham marches. I cannot imagine sending either of my daughters out to march in such a volatile situation, yet 2,500 children participated. The notes on the photographs were also informative.

Salem, 1692. When rumours of young girls practicing witchcraft in Salem arise, the town is engulfed in paranoia, hysteria and irrationality. The four act play follows several key characters as their lives are unravelled in the face of these rumours. Written in 1952, the play was also meant to serve as an allegory for the McCarthy trials of that era, where many Hollywood directors, writers and others were questioned for their possible communist leanings - a witch-hunt of another kind. Interestingly, Arthur Miller was indicted in the same trials for refusing to name suspected communists - a decision later reversed. On the surface it may appear to be a simple story, but there are far larger themes that range from theocracy, abuse of power, paranoia, hypocrisy, good versus evil, religious fervour, amongst many others. Upon reflection, I found it to be a disturbing and engaging play that is still relatable to modern day society. I'm also aware that was a prescribed text for many American high school students - that met with mixed reviews! It's very globally relevant themes make it a must read for everyone. #MustRead

Daisy is a fangirl scorned. She won a contest for the band Seconds To Juliet and her prize was a date to homecoming with S2J's front man Trevin Jacobs--thing is, the dude stands her up--in front of half her town. Yep. She's a pariah. So, she's more than toying with the idea of humiliating Trevin when she joins her father on the S2J tour. He's the chief bodyguard for the band, and Daisy now has has unlimited access. Trevin is a bit of a jackass. He's a narc on his bandmates and charged with keeping everyone in line, even though he's only 18. Still, meeting Daisy has him re-considering the S2J "no girlfriends" policy, and fellow songwriter, Ryder, challenges Trevin to the ultimate bet: if Trevin can get Daisy to fall for him, then he can get special songwriting privileges for the band. It's Trevin's dream-come-true---get a pretty girl to love him and he's set! Thing is, Daisy is not at all inclined to swoon for Trevin. She's too bitter. Trevin can't understand why his normal schtick isn't working and actually tries to get to KNOW Daisy--he's smitten, and feeling rather crappy regarding the bet. For her part, Daisy sees how kind and considerate Trevin is, and thinks maybe her revenge plan is not the way to go. Plus, reconnecting with her dad after several years' absence gives her a better perspective on life. She thought all men would leave her abandoned: Trevin, her dad, her dead Gramps. Trevin seems earnest in his pursuit of her friendship (and More!) until Daisy learns about The Bet. So, this is a clean read with just a few make-out sessions. Daisy and Trevin are both young and foolish, making bad choices they regret and seek forgiveness for. It's a solid YA romance with relatable, imperfect MC's who make amends and build a real relationship. There is plenty of caustic banter and some definitely swoony moments. I enjoyed. I received a review copy via NetGalley.

3.51 stars Yelena is so going in my favorite-heroines list.

I prefer the original because there is my Bonnie song. I think the "memer" is supposed to be "memper" if the original word is not used directly - at least that's what my GPU editor said :) and ikan salem is supposed to be salmon consistently, either way.

Fun vacations don't always mean going away somewhere amazing.

I read this with my children as part of our learning about Korean culture and history for social studies in homeschool. We found it fun and interesting, with a good variety of stories, facts, activities, art projects, and music to share and try.

What All-Star Batman lacks as of now is focus. Granted, Scott Snyder is handling a Two-Face story really well, knowing full well the villain's personality. Snyder is a genius in doing that, with what he did with Joker and The Riddler in his New52 Batman run, I have full trust in him that he can deliver a great Two-Face story. Going back, sure, All-Star Batman has a central thesis of "going to somewhere" story, which loosely ties all the villains just popping out of nowhere. They may be motivated by Two-Face's offer, but them showing up felt disjointed and uninspired. It is also new for me to read Snyder's style of telling the story at different time points, but I do not see the point doing it. He could have just told in in a linear fashion and that might be a tad better than how the story is being narrated. Perhaps I'm too early to judge and maybe there is a Nolan-esque reason for that, so let's just wait and see. Romita's art is fine, but there's nothing more to it. Of course I'm overly subjective with this matter, but I kept on imagining how Greg Capullo (or Sean Murphy and even Francis Manapul) will draw All-Star Batman. Romita's art is yet to impress me. Overall, All-Star Batman issue two is fine. It is an entertaining read but not a great one.

This is a contemporary reconnection story about childhood friends Katy Lou and Elijah. They were the best of friends with super messed up families--Katy Lou's mother was an alcoholic and dad was gone, while Elijah's father was abusive. One night he and his mother disappeared, seemingly without a trace. Nearly ten years later, Katy Lou sees Elijah fighting in what seems to be an underground cage fighting ring--and she has to see him again. She is seriously involved with another man, Jacob--her date at the cage fight--but when she and Elijah reconnect, she knows her relationship with Jacob is well and truly done. We get some connection between Elijah and Katy Lou, until his miserable father returns needing cash, and threatening Katy Lou. Expect melodrama, and some sexytimes and far more buried behind the spoiler tag. I wish I could say I enjoyed this. Well, this book has topped my "Needs an American editor list" for 2015. The whole thing is frustratingly written in Queen's English, which wouldn't bother me at all, if it were set in Melbourne, or London, but it's set in California. With so-called Americans. Bollocks! It is stilted and awkward and overly verbose it the phrasing. Bonus, we touch all the melodrama bases: physical altercation with the ex, blackmailing parent, unintended pregnancy (while on oral contraception), break-up-to-protect-from-harm---without confessing that harm is likely or even possible, irrational jealousy over the ex, and the (inevitable) big showdown at the Okay Corral. I get that Katy Lou and Elijah are childhood soul mates, but I don't dig the infidelity. Sorry. Be an adult. Call a guy and tell him it's over before you go into another relationship. There are really so many issues with this story that pass highly suspect into completely unbelievable territory. The pace is slow and the plot is predictable in its twists even if the substance bends the limits of reality. I'm sorry, no woman is free on her own recognizance a week after shooting a man point blank. Even if he is an abuser. Not that I condone abuse, or think that women who defend themselves from an abuser deserve to go to jail, but the scene was not really even self-defense, sorry. (Not sorry! I am a pacifist and this was all really contrived; that gal would have been locked in 99% of the US.)

I love Billy's work, I really do, but the poems in this collection are so disappointing, especially because they could've been so much better. A lot of great ideas, a lot of great sounds, a lot of great images, but the poems really need a good edit to make them stronger. In a poem everything needs to be tight because of brevity, and the weak parts really drag down the rest of the poem, over and over again. I went to the poetry reading in Chicago, and one of these poems had a very powerful image, a short two line segment, that was cut from the poem before publication. Sadly. Billy's incredibly gifted, but without the music to back them up, the words in these poems more often than not don't manage to stand on their own. I'm not sure how much input Billy got from an editor or other poets before submitting these poems for publication, but they strike me as rather early drafts of what could've been great poems.

mSTf~ brhym l shk `bqr~ w bystkhdm lGtn w by`rf yTl` ll~ jwn ,, bs d mymn`sh n m`Zm lqSyd mlyn kswr fy lwzn ktyr fshkh w bs ,,

Paris Pan was a good read. Cynthea Liu created some wonderful characters and such a believable family. The story and Paris are spunky and quirky and make for a light read. It's great to read about this family and I hope more books with ethnic families will be written as well and believable as this was!

Skeptical at first, I ended up absolutely loving this book of little poems. Expertly chosen and so beautifully illustrated. Win!

Intoxicating, violent and still breathtakingly beautiful. I have always wanted to read something by Richard Siken and was not disappointed, at all.

I liked it.

Much more cohesive than many of the artistic visionary volumes, though there were nonetheless a lot of hands working on this volume. The initial Chris Claremont story from Marvel Team-Up is a big fight with a deus ex machina at the end, e.g., not very interesting [3/10]. The Marvel Two-In-One issue which marks Byrne's writing debut is a big fight, but with a fun premise [6/10]. Marv Wolfman's two issues about Blaastar and the Futurist should share flaws with Claremont's work, since they're likewise slugfist with a deus ex machina. However, Wolfman's clever juggling of the plots combined with much better scripting and dialogue raise the story up [6/10]. The sequel by Bill Mantlo about HERBIE is even better, nicely mixing an enemy within with, nice continuity, and a great ending--some of that apparently supplied by Wolfman [7/10]. Unfortunately when Mantlo writes a story of the Frightful Four on his own, the results are more mediocre [5/10]. Byrne's story that ends the volume is unfortunately pretty mediocre--though it has a nice ending--probably due to its origins as a promo comic.

The second part of the book will always be my favorite. This is a re-read, I've read it the first time in High School. Being away from home made this read even more meaningful to me.

We have yet to be disappointed with Diane Stanley. This wonderful biography of Peter the Great captures both his hard work and impatience to revolutionize Russia. It also hints at the tensions created by Peter's rejection of the Russian nobility and high taxation of the people to fund his dreams. Diane Stanley does it again, and this one is a keeper!

Ok...wait, what?! Final Crisis is a collection of 7 stories chronicling an epic battle between Darkseid and Earth's greatest DC superheroes (Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, The Flash and others). What could have been a landmark in the comic universe, left me scratching my head and perplexed. While I have an above average understanding of the DC Universe and comic crossovers, I think this was a hotchpotch of confusing storylines, convoluted characters and all round disjointed storytelling. It appears to border on self-indulgent, with the writer proclaiming his vast knowledge of the DC universe. On the positive side, the art work is beautifully rendered with much effort put into the (numerous) battle scenes. I'd read this for the comic book phenomenon that it is, but recommend it for serious fans of the DC Universe.

More beautiful, compelling, and iconic stories. However, the inclusion of so many flashbacks and backstories really breaks the flow of the main arc.

Awesome story, awesome pictures. Kids LOVE this!

Fringe like, but not as a good as the TV show, and definitely not one of Gage's best works.

Very powerful poetry and prose. The spoken word cadence to many of the poems works really well on the page. Moise takes up the complexities of Haitian culture, the immigrant experience, sexuality and gender, and bearing witness. Highly recommended.

A quick read, and probably better than The Da Vinci Code.

A commendable attempt to rescue a muscular Christianity from an anti-bourgeois clergy, by a shameless self-promoter. The marketing skill shows in the highly readable prose and the easy to follow story telling. An inspiration for my nascent novel, in which I attempt to do the opposite (i.e., rescue anti-bourgeois Christianity from the muscular capitalists).

Interesting points regarding liberal government combined with a good synthesis of Locke, Hobbes, and Hegel.

So this is steampunk? A lush Victorian era setting, elements of science fiction and nifty technological developments, humorous dialogue, plenty of action, paranormal characters, and a romantic couple I couldn't get enough of? Consider me a convert! :)

I am so thrilled about the possibilities for this book. So many ideas in my head. Terrific and beautiful.

This Caldecott Honor Book is delightfully well illustrated, complete with tricky die cuts. The text has just a hint of an environmental message about making sure the planet can stay green, but the message will go over the heads of most primary-grade readers unless it is pointed out to them in a lesson. A fun picture book that I wish were longer so I could savor it even more.

So this was one of the MOST emotional books I think I have ever read, I was bawling durign the end and in tears soaking my face and snot never ceasing. This was a emotional, soul quenching, tearjerker of a book. Just thinking of it makes me want to cry again. It was a good story, frustrating and sad, but good... I usually HATE stories liek this, that dont end the way I quite want, but i have to say I did love this book. it made me crawl in bed and cuddle up to my husband wanting to hold onto him for forever, then the tears started again... this book to me on such an emotional journey and got the screws turning in my head about how to cherish everyday with your family and those you love... whew... emotionally exsausted after this one!!

This is a bittersweet menage M/M/M story that explores a disintegrating marriage, and the reasons behind the collapse. It has a happy ending. 3.5 stars. Cam and Theo are a married couple. They've been together 17 years--since college--and just over four years ago met Nate, singer in an up-and-coming band. They were up for some fun, and it worked so well, that Nate joined them, permanently. Well...the book opens with Nate ecstatic for one of his rendezvous nights on the road with his sexy boyfriends, only to find Cam waiting for him. Because Theo is moving out of their house back in LA. Nate's blindsided and hurt, and Cam's a mess. They make love, but it's bittersweet. Rinse and repeat that a few times. Sometimes Theo comes, sometimes Cam comes, see--while they can't live together, neither wants to lose Nate. It's a bad situation. What Nate learns, as he strives to get his men back together is that Theo's been suffering depression for a long time. And, Cam's been struggling with borderline-OCD and panic attacks for a long time, and neither noticed the other's problems because they were too wrapped in their own mental illness. There is a lot of bitter in this book. There are also points of extreme sweetness. As a person who's suffered depression, I felt it was more bitter than sweet. As a person who's weathered rough patches in a long marriage, it was raw to experience echoes of similar distance in the characters on the page. It ends with a very reasonable and relatable and realistic reunion. That was really satisfying, but I still had a LOT of angst--some on the page, some of my own baggage--to heft before I got to the good parts. Those good parts coming at the very end of the book. Poly romances are often hard to relate to, but it's not hard to relate to the unraveling of love. Nate was such a dear, really stoking the fires to get Cam and Theo to reconcile, but his efforts were in the wrong place, because only the people breaking up can do the making up--as Theo and Cam realized. The mental illness issues were carefully described, and felt very real--especially the depression as I have first-hand experience with that. I liked how the solution was never complacent, not: "we'll get over it." Once Cam and Theo claimed their issues, they got productive help managing their emotional state. Part of their delay seeking counseling was fear that any marriage counselors would tell them they needed to cut Nate loose. I could relate with that fear, as poly relationships are not given the same weight as marriage, and that prejudice proved a hindrance to their health. Still, there were several lights at the end of the tunnel, and the end proved to be both happy and sexy. In all, it worked for me. I just wished it had been a little more upbeat. I received a review copy via NetGalley.

It's fun seeing the lyrics written outside of the context of song. I love Jarvis' commentary - just wish there was more of it.

For this review and more Live Read and Breathe So as we know I am a sucker for the rock star books and lucky for us Liam is a gorgeous tortured rock star. :) I have to admit at the beginning I wasn't sure if I was going to love Liam because he came across as a wee bit of a selfish douche bag but of course with his rock star swooning looks and lines he melted my heart. "I bought this house with you in mind. I'm here because this is where my family is, you and Noah. I want to be with you." "...I'll be patient Jojo." He stands and leans over me. I have to lean back so I can see him. "You will be mine again." Oh Liam! of course I will be yours again. Ha ha. How could Josie not take him back. With Josie I know she was hurt so she had to make a wall around her to protect her heart but it was so hard to see her with Nick when we all know she loved him but was not in love with him. In the end it doesn't matter because if something is meant to be it finds its way home. This book was a sweet read jam packed with family, angst, hope, loss and love. This will definitely be a series that I will continue to read. I can't wait for the second book to see how it all pans out for Katelyn and Harrison.

Written in the Stars is actually a book I don't recommend reading the synopsis for, as I feel it spoils a lot of elements of the book. I know I know.. I just posted the synopsis. But that is my review structure and I'm sticking to it. First off, this was a very interesting story about a subject matter I had never read about before. It introduces the reader to the culture slowly, and I found a lot about it very fascinating. While I felt for Naila and her plight, I also found her very naive at times. I saw the plot twist coming from a mile away, and it seemed obvious to everyone but her. I also found that due to how short the story was, many of the characters weren't developed. I was hoping for more interactions with her family that made them more sympathetic, when we instead got a very stereotypical image of them and their beliefs. I kept waiting for them to get some redemption, and they never did. I found it very interesting that the author is in a happily arranged marriage herself, and chose instead to write about the horror's surrounding that same topic. I was expecting this book to have a little more middle ground on the subject. While the situations she chose to depict are important, I think that is often the image we see of Middle Eastern culture here in the West, and I would have liked to see something different there. Lastly, I also found the writing to be simple, and the plot to overall be wrapped up a little too quickly and easily. The writing allowed for the story to move quickly, but it was also very blunt. It made me feel like I was reading a script more than a story. I also felt that the conflict was wrapped up very quickly, leaving me reeling a bit. This story is very intense, and it is brought to a close rather easily. I also felt that the ending was a tad unrealistic for the story. Overall, I enjoyed this book. I found it to be a quick read about a subject matter that many of us don't know much about. While I had some problems with it, I still think it is worth a read if you are interested. This review was originally posted on Thoughts on Tomes

A perfectly OK cops-in-space book. The mystery is quite well done: carefully built up, then well explained in the end. The science-fiction aspect is a nice overlay, but it's not used to particularly strong effect, though there is some good imagination in thinking about the underclass of a space station. Overall, this was an interesting book, but not a phenomenal one.

A very fun read for any age. I found myself smiling through each page when I wasn't laughing outright. Very imaginative and just plain fun.

What a great introduction to the Integumentary system! As usual, Paul Showers tells kids about their bodies with easy-to-follow language and fun illustrations. I like that this is an old book and yet still relevant since this science hasn't changed much in the intervening years.

Abaddon's a mid-level devil who's required to collect a certain quota of souls, but not all souls are equal. Like, corrupting one pure soul is worth more than a dozen athletes dying to Go Pro...for example. Abaddon really dislikes soul harvesting. He avoids it, at all cost, but he's gotten a warning due to his lack of productivity and is due to be demoted if he doesn't get one soul in the next month. So, Abaddon searches high-and-low for a sterling soul, one that will push his quota far back. He locates one such soul, a shining beacon of a man, in Seth. Seth is the blind virtuoso who plays for a tent revival group which travels the southeastern US. He's also more than just a man--as Abaddon soon learns. Seth is 21, innocent, sweet and complete catnip for Abaddon. His soul-hunger is off the charts whenever he's near Seth. Seth was an orphan, dropped at the doorstep of the revival, and adopted by the late revival master. He gets along with his surrogate family, and truly believes in the word of The Lord, but he wants a true love, and he's both a virgin and gay. It's interesting and cool that the revivalists are totally unaffected by that. The more time Abaddon spends in Seth's presence, the more he begins to realize that Seth is mystical in a way that's nearly unheard of. I don't want to give too much away, but expect trials with snakes and faith healing that works. In the meantime, Abaddon is plotting his harvest of Seth's soul, and he's also really wrecked over it. How can he condemn such a good man to an eternity in Hell? There are surely things Abaddon can trade Seth to make his human life more bearable, but will Seth accept them, knowing these gifts come from a Devil's hand? As atonement, Abaddon plans to pull every string he can to ensure that he and Seth will be able to connect in Hell, and spend their eternity together. It's still cold comfort for Abaddon... It's a quick read and an interesting story. I do love me a conflicted devil, and Abaddon is really a fun character to enjoy. The scenes in Hell are amusing and made me chuckle many a time. The unfolding romance was tender and touching, and I swooned for Seth just as hard as Abaddon did. I hadn't quite predicted the full path of this book, which charmed me, as a reader. I loved the positive portrayal of the revivalists, and the stalwart and battle-ready chaperone that Seth and Abaddon had to avoid whenever they wanted some alone-time. There's a heady build up of sexual tension, and a sweet love that's on the page.