New Author Challenge 2010 Wrap-Up

I completed the New Authors Challenge early this year... yay me! I agreed on reading 50 new (to me) authors and I did just that.

Here's my final list:
1- A Matter of Class by Mary Balogh
2- Breakfast in Bed by Robin Kaye
3- A Black Tie Affair by Sherrill Bodine
4- Tainted by Brooke Morgan
5- Columbine by Dave Cullen
6- A Little Bit Wicked by Kristin Chenoweth with Joni Rodgers
7- Lone Star Legend by Gwendolyn Zepeda
8- Bridget Jones's Diary by Helen Fielding
9- Just One Wish by Janette Rallison
10- The Claiming of Sleeping Beauty by A.N. Roquelaure
11- Alice I Have Been by Melanie Benjamin
12- The Mark by Jen Nadol
13- Fireworks Over Toccoa by Jeffrey Stepakoff
14- Wench by Dolen Perkins-Valdez
15- The Bride Collector by Ted Dekker
16- Jacob by Jacquelyn Frank
17- The Summer We Fell Apart by Robin Antalek
18- The Cougar Club by Susan McBride
19- Lessons in French by Laura Kinsale
20- One Amazing Thing by Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni
21- Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane
22- Dream House by Valerie Laken
23- Wake by Lisa McMann
24- Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine
25- The Strain by Guillermo Del Toro & Chuck Hogan
26- Alice's Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll
27- The Crazy School by Cornelia Read
28- The Adoration of Jenna Fox by Mary E. Pearson
29- After by Amy Efaw
30- Love in Mid Air by Kim Wright
31- The Girl with Glass Feet by Ali Shaw
32- The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting
33- Hold Still by Nina LaCour
34- Crazy Beautiful by Lauren Baratz-Logsted
35- Flirting with Forever by Gwyn Cready
36- How I Live Now by Meg Rosoff
37- Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver
38- Nothing But Ghosts by Beth Kephart
39- Wicked Becomes You by Meredith Duran
40- The Day I Shot Cupid by Jennifer Love Hewitt
41- Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl
42- Once Dead, Twice Shy by Kim Harrison
43- The Night Fairy by Laura Amy Schlitz
44- Waiting for You by Susane Colasanti
45- The Season of Second Chances by Diane Meier
46- Venetia Kelly's Traveling Show by Frank Delaney
47- Undead and Unwed by MaryJanice Davidson
48- The Iron King by Julie Kagawa
49- Chasing Brooklyn by Lisa Schroeder
50- The Art of Devotion by Samantha Bruce-Benjamin

I really love this challenge - it's a fantastic way of reading new authors and getting into genres which aren't the norm. Can't wait to do it again next year.

The Art of Devotion by Samantha Bruce-Benjamin

Have we all not wished to keep forever the one person we love the most?

The secluded beaches of a sun-drenched Mediterranean island are the perfect playground for young Sebastian and Adora. Emotionally adrift from their mother, Adora shelters her sensitive older brother from the cruelties of the world. Sophie does not question her children’s intense need for one another until it’s too late. Her beloved son’s affections belong to Adora, and when he drowns in the sea, she has no one else to blame.

Still heartbroken years later, Adora fills her emptiness with Genevieve, the precocious young daughter of her husband’s business associate and his jealous wife, Miranda. Thrilled to be invited into the beautiful and enigmatic Adora’s world, the child idolizes her during their summers together. Yet, as the years progress, Genevieve begins to suspect their charmed existence is nothing more than a carefully crafted illusion. Soon, she too is ensnared in a web of lies. [via Barnes & Noble]

I love period novels like this -this one mostly takes place between 1919-38. But what I mostly enjoyed about it was how the narrative is told between all four women (Sophie, Adora, Genevieve, and Miranda), giving you the story through their perspective made this quite the experience. Riddled with secrets, deceit, intrigue, jealousy and betrayal you can't help but to love/hate these women. Just when I thought I had it all figured out ... yea, I didn't. This happened more than once. It really had me on my toes and no matter how much I tried to figure the whole thing out it just did not happen.

Ms. Bruce-Benjamin's writing is beautiful even lyrical at times. She is an expert at dropping subtle hints that leave you wanting more.. making you devour her novel voraciously.

All in all, there is definitely someone or maybe an aspect of this novel that we can relate to. For we have all (at some point in our lives) loved, been lied to, felt happiness, experienced disappointment or even lost someone dear to us. Highly addictive and one that I can definitely recommend.


This book was provided for review by Pocket Books.

Chasing Brooklyn by Lisa Schroeder

Brooklyn can’t sleep. Her boyfriend, Lucca died a year ago, and now their friend Gabe has died of an overdose. Every time she closes her eyes, Gabe's ghost is there, waiting for her. She has no idea what he wants or why it isn't Lucca chasing her through her dreams.

Nico can’t stop. He’s always running, trying so hard not to feel the pain of missing Lucca. But when he begins receiving messages from his dead brother, telling him to help Brooklyn, emotions come crashing to the surface.

As the nightmares escalate and the messages become relentless, Nico reaches out to Brooklyn. But neither of them can admit that they're being haunted. Until they learn to let each other in, not one soul will be able to rest. [via GoodReads]

The first time I saw Chasing Brooklyn at my bookstore I scanned through its pages saw that it was written in verse with its very short chapters and its few sentences per page and put it right back where I found it. At the time all I could think was why waste money on something that when actually put together amounts to maybe 150 full pages of writing not to mention what matter of character definition can you get out of a story written so sparsely. All I can say now is... (and I'm not ashamed to say it) boy was I wrong.

This is the first book I've read that is written in verse and I can't even begin to tell you how fascinating and beautiful and just enthralling I found this story to be. Lisa Schroeder definitely has a way with words! She may not use many of them but the one's she does use, she makes you feel them in your heart and you can't help but want to savor them. I've never read anything like this before so please bear with me while I gush over how awesome this book is.

For starters, this is a fast-paced novel that can be read in a few hours tops. But I personally would not recommend that. This is a story to be savored, enjoyed, even to dwell upon for a little just to fully capture all the emotions and feelings that the main characters go through. What I most enjoyed about it is that it is told through alternating points-of-view between Brooklyn and Nico giving the reader a very in depth look into at all sides of the story. You can't help but go on this journey with them and feel their sorrow, loss, self-discovery and ultimately their healing. There were many things that I loved about this novel and those include, not just the characters, but the hauntings (which I found really creepy) and the training for the race.

I am still awed by how much emotion and depth Ms. Schroeder conveyed in just a few short sentences. I actually liked it so much that I went out and bought everything else she's ever written, yes, sorry, the OCD kicked in.

All in all, Chasing Brooklyn is haunting, riveting and one that I think everyone should read. And to those of you who don't read books written in this style, don't knock it 'till you try it, you won't be disappointed.

The Iron King by Julie Kagawa

Don't ask me why, but for some reason I kept putting off reading this book. Maybe it was the fact that it was yet another faery story or maybe it was the weather, or just that I was in a reading slump at the time. I'm not sure what was wrong with me but I am so glad that I finally picked it up when I did. This book was amazing! Ms. Kagawa has created a world riddled with characters that not only have I come to love but who I secretly wish were real.

When Meghan's little brother, Ethan, mysteriously disappears it is up to her and BFF, Robbie, who turns out to be the infamous Puck (yes, from Midsummer Night's Dream), to return him safe and sound back home. In just a few short chapters Meghan is whisked away from the world and the life she has always known and finds herself in the Nevernever - the land of the fae. There she encounters all sorts of mythical, magical creatures - Grimalkin (a talking, sneaky cat who reminded me of the Cheshire Cat from Alice in Wonderland), all sorts of trolls, goblins, and scary what-not that relish the idea of eating Meghan, as well as some well-known characters from the Summer Court like King Oberon and Queen Titania. Then there is Ash - Prince of the Winter Court and enemy to anything Summer (and that includes Meghan and Puck). On a race against time to save her brother, Meghan not only finds herself on a perilous journey but also running for her life. When she finds no other recourse but to strike a deal with Ash she is not only risking imprisonment by the Winter Court but also in falling for the cold-hearted prince.

This was hands down the best faery book I've had the pleasure of reading. Meghan Chase was exactly what I want in a heroine. She handles one situation after the next with bravery, stubbornness, and selflessness. She was not a whiner which I can definitely appreciate. I think for a 16 year old girl who finds herself about to be eaten more than once by all sorts of unimagined creatures, she definitely passed the test. She had a few freak-out moments, but nonetheless, she handled herself perfectly.

The world-building in this story was phenomenal. There were parts that reminded me of Alice in Wonderland and others of Labyrinth (there were many similarities there), but other than a few of those moments, Ms. Kagawa's Nevernever is very original and refreshing. She blends mythology,well-known fairy tale, steampunk and urban fantasy seamlessly.

As for the romance (sighs), it is also very well done. As is common in most YA books, there is a love triangle but I didn't not find it to be overbearing, instead it was subtle and in the end I approved of it. I, like Meghan, also found myself torn between Ash and Puck. But I must confess I am an Ash girl. I loved that he was distant and cold but yet had his moments where his defenses would melt and his true feelings shone through. I can't wait to see how that plays out for Winter and Summer are not meant to be together.

All in all, Ms. Kagawa has outdone herself with this first installment in her Iron Fey series. I am intrigued by this captivating adventure full of page-turning action, humor and romance... I just WANT MORE!

Undead and Unwed by Mary Janice Davidson

Elizabeth "Betsy" Taylor is having a terrible day - she got laid off from work and while chasing down her Houdini cat, she gets hit by a car and dies. Obviously things aren't right when she wakes up inside a coffin wearing Payless shoes and hand-me-down clothes.

Not only is Betsy not dead, but after a bout of depression on why her life sucks (especially after losing her job) and countless attempts at killing herself (jumping off a building, electrocution, drowning, drinking Chlorox... you get the picture) - she realizes she can't die. She quickly comes to realize that she is a vampire (the fangs and super strength were a big factor in this) and is now one of the undead.

But Betsy is not your ordinary vampire... oh no, not only does the girl have a major shoe fetish and has a great sense of style, but she doesn't have the same needs/handicaps as her fellow brethren vampires do. For instance, she can speak of the Lord (without cringing as all vamps do), holy water only makes her sneeze instead of bursting into flames, nor do crosses burn her.

She actually feels as though life might just return to normal - if she really doesn't put too much attention on her new mighty super-vamp powers. And it almost feels as if it is until she gets a mysterious call that lands her facing off with a master vampire, Nostrodamus or Nostro for short. After declining on joining his coven of vamps - she finds herself on the run for her undead life. Luckily for her there is another master vampire who can help... the dreamy Eric Sinclair. After Sinclair gives her a crash course on vampire do's and don't's, proper vampire etiquette and explains that she is the prophesied Vampire Queen - it is up to her to slay Nostro and bring Vampire peace amongst the clans. Sinclair just needs to convince her of this and will stop at nothing and, that includes using Manolo Blahnik and Jimmy Choo, to get what he wants.

Guilty pleasure alert!!! Oh yes, this book is absolute fluff and I loved it!

Betsy is witty, snarky, bitchy, and uproariously hilarious. I loved so many things about her - the constant bickering with Sinclair, the fact that she called him Sink-lair, her friends (the token black girl, Jessica who is richer than well... everyone and her gay sidekick Marc), the fact that she lisps when her fangs elongate, that she's a member of PETA, her manic need for shoes. This is a laugh-out-loud funny gal - the type that anything that can go wrong will probably go wrong because of her.

I found this to be both amusing as well as entertaining. Surprisingly I found myself really liking these characters and found myself even more surprised that this was more of a light mystery type then a romance (don't take me wrong, there is romance but it is not the main core of the book). Undead and Unwed is the first in the series and I will confess that I cannot wait to see what Betsy encounters next.

If you are looking for a fun, fluffy read - nothing but mind candy here - then definitely grab this. I guarantee it will bring a smile to your face.

Venetia Kelly's Traveling Show by Frank Delaney

January 1932: While Ireland roils in the run-up to the most important national election in the Republic’s short history, Ben MacCarthy and his father watch a vagabond variety revue making a stop in the Irish countryside. After a two-hour kaleidoscope of low comedy, Shakespearean recitations, juggling, tumbling, and other entertainments, Ben’s father, mesmerized by Venetia Kelly, the troupe’s magnetic headliner, makes a fateful decision: to abandon his family and set off on the road with Miss Kelly and her caravan. Ben’s mother, shattered by the desertion, exhorts, “Find him and bring him back,” thereby sending the boy on a Homeric voyage into manhood, a quest that traverses the churning currents of Ireland’s fractious society and splinters the MacCarthy family. [via GoodReads]

Where to start on this one?! Well, I'll start with I loved this story.

Frank Delaney is a master storyteller. Ben McCarthy, narrator/hero extraordinaire, tells us a story of his youth in a very intimate setting - almost making you feel as if you are sitting down with him listening while he reminisces. Set in mostly 1930's Ireland, you learn how his life forever-changed the day his father abandoned their family to join Venetia Kelly’s Traveling Show.

At first it took me a little bit to get into the story only because it starts off with a lot of background information on both Ben and Venetia. So there are two storylines - Venetia's bohemian upbringing and then Ben who's always been protected and pampered by his doting partents - that is, until the day his father up and leaves and his mother begs him to chase down his father and bring him back home. Through Ben's journey with the Traveling Show you get a glimpse of the tumultuous political situation Ireland was in during the 1930's. I think Mr. Delaney was superb in mixing fiction with non-fiction. You really had a grip on the political atmosphere of the 30’s and what a role it played on every day lives.

Now, keeping in mind that there is more than one story line at the beginning of the book, once these story lines come together and everything starts to fit together - it all weaved into this fantastic coming-of-age story, with an unexpected romance, mysteries to be solved and a journey through Ireland that introduces you to many a lovely character (each with their own story to tell).

Venetia Kelly's Traveling Show is an all-around perfect novel. There were times where I laughed and others where I cried and even others that I felt awed by it - all in all a very worthwhile read.

The Season of Second Chances by Diane Meier

Coming-of-age can happen at any age. Joy Harkness had built a university career and a safe life in New York, protected and insulated from the intrusions and involvements of other people. When offered a position at Amherst College, she impulsively leaves the city, and along with generations of material belongings, she packs her equally heavy emotional baggage. A tumbledown Victorian house proves an unlikely choice for a woman whose family heirlooms have been boxed away for years. Nevertheless, this white elephant becomes the home that changes Joy forever. As the restoration begins to take shape, so does her outlook on life, and the choices she makes over paint chips, wallpaper samples, and floorboards are reflected in her connection to the co-workers who become friends and friendships that deepen. A brilliant, quirky, town fixture of a handyman guides the renovation of the house and sparks Joy’s interest to encourage his personal and professional growth. Amid the half-wanted attention of the campus’s single, middle-aged men, known as “the Coyotes,”and the legitimate dramas of her close-knit community, Joy learns that the key to the affection of family and friends is being worthy of it, and most important, that second chances are waiting to be discovered within us all. [via GoodReads]

This was such a nice, feel-good book. Ms. Meier penned some very interesting characters that I found to be very honest, realistic, relateable and likeable.

When Joy is given the choice of landing her dream job, leaving NYC and her average life behind, she grabs that bull by the horns and runs with it. This is her chance to start anew (a second chance at life) - she buys herself a fixer-upper and settles in to small-town life. She wasn't expecting all the new experiences she would have. While living in New York she was somewhat of a recluse. She was dedicated to her job but had little time for friends or socializing. Here at Amherst, her coworkers/colleagues basically force her to make friends. And then there's Teddy, the contractor who helps make her dilapidated house into a home.

I loved reading the descriptions of Amherst, MA., and all the details on the home repairs, interior design, etc. My only complaint would be that I found that Joy behaved like a woman older than someone in her 40's. She could easily pass for a woman ten years older if you judged her on the way she acted.

All in all, this was a sweet little story. It is not a must-read, but it is definitely an enjoyable read nonetheless. Recommended to those looking for a light, summer read that will leave you feeling satisfied and hopeful.

Waiting for You by Susane Colasanti

At the beginning of her sophomore year, Marisa is ready for a fresh start and, more importantly, a boyfriend. So when the handsome and popular Derek asks her out, Marisa thinks her long wait for happiness is over. But several bumps in the road—including her parents’ unexpected separation, a fight with her best friend, and a shocking disappointment in her relationship with Derek—test Marisa’s ability to maintain her new outlook. Only the anonymous DJ, whose underground podcasts have the school’s ear, seems to understand what Marisa is going through. But she has no idea who he is—or does she? [via GoodReads]

This was a sweet, coming-of-age story of a young girl who is at the point in her life where she is discovering who she is and where she is going. Marisa is a very relatable character - she's a sophomore in high school and is looking for Mr. Right. When she lands the perfect boyfriend (handsome, popular, etc.) she begins to realize that sometimes love doesn't have to be perfect and can be found when least expected.

Although the story does have a light feel to it, it does touch on some rather serious subjects, making it not just a fun book but also an emotional story. I do have to say that I was drawn more to the lighter/more romanticer (yes, I made that word up) moments in the story. I also enjoyed the whole anonymous DJ bit... although I did guess who it was from the start.

I have to confess that I did wish that it would have been more fast-paced... I felt as if something was waiting around the corner the whole time, but it just never came. All in all, this is a classic coming-of-age story about friendship and first love that is easily enjoyed.

The Night Fairy by Laura Amy Schlitz

After a run-in with a bat leaves Flory without her wings, she finds that her whole lifestyle is in for a change. For instance, she falls off the tree she has been living in and ends up in the giantess's yard. There she must learn how to survive - find a new home and without her wings, that means work. Angry at the bats, mad at the night, and annoyed with herself, Flory decides she won't be a night fairy anymore--she'll be a day fairy. With her trusty dagger and an always-hungry squirrel, she's off on an unforgettable adventure.

What a sweet little tale awaits you in the pages of The Night Fairy. This will definitely appeal to little girls... because really, what little girl doesn't dream of being a fairy?

Flory is one tough fairy... I mean tough as nails. She is not shy about threatening any foe with her dagger and, at times, due to her lack of being around other fairy's, her demeanor with her fellow garden dwellers can be rather rude, demanding and even stand-offish. But you can definitely see her growth throughout the story as she not only learns to survive in her new world but she also learns to be a friend.

The story comes in a slim volume with stunningly, enchanting artwork by Angela Barrett. The pages were sleek and shiny and you had some thick glittery pages at the end of the book... very nice all-around package that makes you want to display it on your bookshelf. This is a story that can be enjoyed by everyone (no matter the age) and believe me, those of you who do pick it up will cherish it.

Once Dead, Twice Shy by Kim Harrison

Madison's prom was killer—literally. For some reason she's been targeted by a dark reaper—yeah, that kind of reaper—intent on getting rid of her, body and soul. But before the reaper could finish the job, Madison was able to snag his strange, glowing amulet and get away.

Now she's stuck on Earth—dead but not gone. Somehow the amulet gives her the illusion of a body, allowing her to toe the line between life and death. She still doesn't know why the dark reaper is after her, but she's not about to just sit around and let fate take its course.

With a little ingenuity, some light-bending, and the help of a light reaper (one of the good guys! Maybe . . . ), her cute crush, and oh yeah, her guardian angel, Madison's ready to take control of her own destiny once and for all, before it takes control of her.

Well, if she believed in that stuff. [via GoodReads]

Once Dead, Twice Shy is a fast-paced novel that sadly I just did not enjoy. For one, the book starts and you feel like if you missed the first half of it. You just get thrown right smack into the story, or at least that's what I felt like. Now for me it was a little different because I read the short story in Prom Nights from Hell titled Madison Avery and the Dim Reaper which was were I was originally introduced to Madison and what intrigued me enough to make me want to see what happens next with her.

I really liked the premise of the story. I'm a sucker for good vs. bad (or, in this case, dark vs. light) stories and this really sounded promising. But in the end, I just didn't get a true feel for the characters and the story ended up being too predictable for my tastes.

I can definitely see it's appeal and why teens would want to read it (with all the hype for paranormal books nowadays), but it just didn't work for me.

Beautiful Creatures by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl

Lena Duchannes is unlike anyone the small Southern town of Gatlin has ever seen, and she’s struggling to conceal her power and a curse that has haunted her family for generations. But even within the overgrown gardens, murky swamps, and crumbling graveyards of the forgotten South, a secret cannot stay hidden forever.

Ethan Wate, who has been counting the months until he can escape from Gatlin, is haunted by dreams of a beautiful girl he has never met. When Lena moves into the town’s oldest and most infamous plantation, Ethan is inexplicably drawn to her and determined to uncover the connection between them.

In a town with no surprises, one secret could change everything. [via GoodReads]

Beautiful Creatures was a very addictive read. I truly enjoyed reading through Ethan's point-of-view. I found it very refreshing considering that most YA is written through a females perspective.

I was taken in by the star-crossed lover-esque feel of the story... girl is a Caster - boy is just a mere human. What will they do? I enjoyed the Southern feel of the story - as you read it you can hear that southern drawl. The setting was well-defined and very fitting to the story. We also get a mini history lesson on the Civil War, which I found to be a plus. I think the authors did a phenomenal job in character development. There were plenty of characters and each one was defined and stood out creating their own set of feelings in you. Ethan and Lena were both likeable and relateable - sans the magic, of course. Their love story was sweet, realistic and definitely brings forth those feelings that we all felt at that age.

I have to say that my favorite characters were Uncle Mason and Amma. Uncle Mason because he reminded me of Rhett Butler in "Gone with the Wind" and Amma because she was fiery and had this attitude about her that brought a smile to my face. I also can't forget to mention librarian extraordinaire, Marian. Gosh, would I love her job!

There were a few things that I didn't like ... for starters this book is a tome. And, although I found the storyline intriguing and I was entertained throughout, I felt that there was a lot of jibberish scattered throughout that was unnecessary. I also felt that Ethan acted much older than his sixteen years and I found him overly emotional for a male (at times). There were some areas that dragged for me - maybe it was too detailed, I really can't explain it, but I would have preferred it to be a little shorter. Don't take me wrong, it all resolves nicely and everything comes into place, but it was still way too long for me.

In the end, the pro's definitely outweigh the con's so this is one that I believe did live up to the hype. Being the first in the series, I can't wait to see where Ms. Garcia and Ms. Stohl will take Ethan, Lena and us to next. Although geared towards the YA crowd, this one can be read and enjoyed by adults as well.

On a side note, I wanted to mention that I think it is very cool that two authors wrote this book. I don't know who wrote what or where one ends and the other begins, but Kudos for that. Also, for the phenomenal cover art - one of my faves.

The Day I Shot Cupid by Jennifer Love Hewitt

Self-proclaimed Love-aholic, Jennifer Love Hewitt, has penned this adorable little book for all you girls looking for love in all the wrong places. In its pages you'll find all sorts of advice from what to wear on a first to what not to eat or drink while you're on it. How to wait for him to call. How to not be overly needy. Feeling worthless. When to snuggle like "velcro" and then act all nonchalant about it. It is a tell-all book about all the "do's" and "don'ts" in relationships... or lack thereof. Her stories were insightful, witty, and humorous that not only give you a glimpse into some of her relationship woes but can also be helpful in avoiding some of those same painful and/or embarrassing scenarios.

Although I'm one of the lucky one's who has been married for years and considers herself to be in happy, healthy relationship with her "hubs", I can definitely appreciate a book like this. I loved the cutesy graphics, the short chapters and the bullet-point areas all told in a spunky, yet honest voice. My favorite part, Jamie Kennedy's cameo - definitely makes a girl feel good about herself and puts a big smile on your face.

This was a sweet little book that can be read in a couple of hours tops, but definitely not to be taken as light reading material as there are many lessons to be learned scattered throughout. Jennifer Love Hewitt has outdone herself in my book with her amazing love guru-ness skills. She definitely knows what she's talking about and I'm hopeful we'll hear more from her in the future.

Wicked Becomes You by Meredith Duran

She’s pretty enough to be popular, and Lord knows she’s rich enough for it. But what society loves best about Gwen Maudsley is how very, very nice she is. So when a cad jilts her at the altar—again—an outraged London brays for blood. Only Gwen has a different plan. If nice no longer works for her, then it’s time to learn to be naughty. Happily, she knows the perfect tutor—Alexander Ramsey, her late brother’s best friend and a notorious rogue.

Unbeknownst to Gwen, Alex’s aloof demeanor veils a very personal interest in her. He has no desire to see her change, nor to tempt himself with her presence when his own secrets make any future between them impossible. But on an educational tour through the glittering casinos of the Riviera, their friendship gives way to something hotter, darker, and altogether more dangerous. With Alex’s past and Gwen’s wildness on a collision course, Gwen must convince Alex that his wickedest intentions are exactly what she needs. [via GoodReads]

I have to confess this is my first Meredith Duran romance. I know, I know, you must be asking yourself if I've been living under a rock right about now... if it makes you feel better, I do own two of her previous works I just haven't gotten around to reading them (bows head in shame). So with that said... wth have I been thinking not to read Meredith Duran before?!?

Ms. Duran is brilliant! I loved her characters. Gwen the jilted (for the second time) super nice, super sweet girl. Alex the rake... I love me a rake. A woman fed up with being the good girl and swearing to live WICKED. A man who has no other recourse but to take care of her (as promised to her late brother) and make sure she gets into no trouble. They were the perfect match with dynamic chemistry, quick wit, and plenty of sigh-worthy moments. And, as if that weren't enough, there's also a bit of a mystery to be solved (although this is not the major plot line in the story). I found this to be more of a character driven novel with plenty of romance, laugh out loud moments, and loads and loads of wickedness (at least what you'd consider wicked for a girl living in the 1890's). Prepare to be whisked away on an adventure through Paris, Nice and Monte Carlo and learn that love comes when you least expect it. This is historical romance at its best and one that I would not hesitate in recommending.

This book was provided for review by Simon & Schuster.

Nothing but Ghosts by Beth Kephart

Ever since her mother passed away, Katie's been alone in her too-big house with her genius dad, who restores old paintings for a living. Katie takes a summer job at a garden estate, where, with the help of two brothers and a glamorous librarian, she soon becomes embroiled in decoding a mystery. There are secrets and shadows at the heart of Nothing but Ghosts: symbols hidden in a time-darkened painting, and surprises behind a locked bedroom door. But most of all, this is a love story—the story of a girl who learns about love while also learning to live with her own ghosts. [via GoodReads]

I've been prolonging writing this review. I think it might be because I felt that this story fell a little flat for me. I'll be honest, it was slow, not too much of anything going on and just when you finally start getting acquainted with the characters, the story ends.

With that said, there were still some aspects of it that I did like. For instance, I loved Ms. Kephart's writing - it was captivating and lyrical. There were really two main threads in the story. Katie's grief for the loss of her mother and then the mystery surrounding Ms. Martine Everlast. I enjoyed the mystery aspect of it. It just felt too slow for me. The build-up was very slow moving and passive and in the end it just didn't hit the mark for me.

The first person narrative was believable. Katie's grief and sense of loss are palpable. It even brought a tear to my eye. I liked the gentle love story also interspersed within the story. And one last thing that I want to make mention of, I loved that the librarian had model looks with her fashionable clothes and killer heels.

All in all, I can see it's appeal, but sadly, it just didn't work for me.

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

What if you had only one day to live? What would you do? Who would you kiss? And how far would you go to save your own life?

Samantha Kingston has it all—looks, popularity, the perfect boyfriend. Friday, February 12th should be just another day in her charmed life. Instead, it’s her last. The catch: Samantha still wakes up the next morning. In fact, she re-lives the last day of her life seven times, until she realizes that by making even the slightest changes, she may hold more power than she had ever imagined. [via GoodReads]

"They say that just before you die your whole life flashes before your eyes, but that’s not how it happened for me. "

It's February 12, Cupid Day at school and the day that Samantha Kingston plans on doing the deed with her boyfriend Rob. The day starts off like any other - she drives to school with her three BFF's. The four of them rule the school. They are the most popular, the one's with the hottest boyfriends, and the one's that every girl in school wants to be like. They're not very nice girls - actually to be quite honest, I thought Sam was a bitch and her friends were even worse than she was. At the end of the night they attend a house party where they mercilessly taunt the school outcast, get inebriated on alcohol and eventually get into a car accident that ends Sam's life... and that's just the end of the first chapter.

The story is told in seven chapters each representing the same day (a la Groundhog Day - you know the one with Bill Murray) . Sam goes through all sorts of emotions... denial, anger, frustration, until she eventually uses these daily opportunities to try and right some of the wrongs that she has done.

Of course at first, I absolutely despised Sam and her friends. They were bitchy, shallow, mean and they were just downright hateful. At the end of the first day, my thought was, well you got what you deserved. How terrible is that? And that's really the beauty of this book. It makes you go through a roller coaster of emotions.

I have to admit that the first 200 pages or so were not my favorite. This first half of the book dragged on for me. But the second half, maybe around day three or four, it really picked up. Here is where you really start getting a feel for the characters. You begin to really understand who they are, why they are this way, their fears, insecurities, vulnerabilities. My favorite moments being those where she spends time with her sister Izzy, getting to know Anna in a school bathroom and, of course, Kent (sighs).

Ms. Oliver's writing is flawless, almost lyrical even. She really mastered a way of making this unlikeable heroine, grow on you to the point where you cared what happened to her.

This is the type of book that you won't forget once you put it down. It leaves you thinking about the things we generally take for granted in life. What exactly it is that you leave behind? What are your "greatest hits"? I found it very thought provoking. I'll mention the ending only because I've read several reviews where they comment on it being too tidy or disappointing. I truly enjoyed it. It is bittersweet and poignant and, no matter how it is interpreted, it is not a happy story, but I found that it left me feeling hopeful.

Although it is a YA book, it definitely has crossover appeal for adults as well. All in all, Before I Fall is a very unique story with stunning writing and not-your-average type characters that I found unforgettable.

How I Live Now by Meg Rosoff

15-year old Daisy is sent to live with her aunt and cousins in England when her father and stepmother have had enough of her attitude and eating disorder (which said eating disorder came about by refusing to eat since she was sure her dreadful stepmother was trying to poison her). She is sent from her Manhattan home to live in a rural farm in England - even though there is the threat of war looming (which no one believes will actually happen). The day after her arrival, her Aunt Penn has to leave on a business trip and she finds herself alone with her four cousins. But their parent-less freedom and summer bliss is cut short when an unnamed aggressor attacks England and they find the country under occupation by enemy forces.

The kids aren't really affected by the war at first. They are living under the assumption that the war is too far away and their little haven in the countryside will be spared. But when the British army takes over their farmstead and split the kids up sending Daisy and her youngest cousin, Piper, away they find themselves living a harsh and very scary reality.

Let's start with what I really liked about this book - I think Ms. Rosoff did a phenomenal job of capturing the toll that war can have on children. I really liked the way the effects slowly progressed... how at first the kids felt safe as if nothing could touch them. But then slowly airports were shut down, meaning Aunt Penn could not return back home, then electricity was shut off, and eventually getting food and supplies became a problem. The bad things slowly started trickling in. From the moment you meet Daisy, Edmund, Piper and the rest of the cousins you can't help but like them. And it pains you to see how these children have to struggle to feed themselves and survive the atrocities of war. I liked that it was told in the first person. since through Daisy we get a firsthand account of the perilous journey she and Piper go through in order to find their way back home.

There were several things I was not too fond of though. For instance, I really didn't like the way the story was told with its lack of quotations and full of fragmented and/or run-on sentences. You have to go into realizing that Daisy is telling you her story out loud rather than reminiscing about that time in her life. I truly think that because the story is told this way you don't really get an in depth feel for the characters. It did not go into as much description as I would have liked. It almost felt as if you were skimming over it. I also felt a tad uncomfortable with the relationship between Daisy and Edmund... oh yes, kissing (and much more) cousins. Although it is done tasteful, it was still graphic enough to make me feel slightly creeped out by it.

This was a quick read and one that I found impossible to put down. I can't say that I absolutely loved it, but it really had me enthralled and I must say that once I finished it I had a hard time getting it out of my mind for several days. Although it is classified as YA, I personally would not recommend it to younger teens as it is detailed when it comes to war crimes and the relationship between Edmund and Daisy.

All in all, I would still recommend it. It was a good read and one that I'm sure fans of dystopian, realistic fiction will enjoy.

Flirting with Forever by Gwyn Cready

Art historian Campbell Stratford is about to make a name for herself with her scandalously sexy tell-all “fictographies” of famous seventeenth-century artists, but she’s more iintimately familiar with her subjects than her eager readers can imagine. Thanks to a time portal she accidentally discovered, she has caused quite a stir in the Great Beyond. To save their reputations, the Guild protecting dead artists convinces playboy Peter Lely, portraitist to the king, to sabotage Cam’s latest project. A few hours posing on Sir Peter’s modeling chaise leads to a night of seductive passion—then Cam returns home and discovers his betrayal. But before she can turn her angry pen on her lover, Sir Peter makes a surprise visit to the future and transforms Cam’s twenty-first-century life into chaos of classic proportions. [via GoodReads]

I've never really read a time travel romance and I think Ms. Cready has opened my eyes to a whole new genre. I really like the way the time travel bit is done in this story. I think there was good development when it came to both the 17th century and the present time. I never found myself confused or disoriented as to what time frame I was in. I'm sure there was a lot of homework done by Ms. Cready to accomplish that with such vivid details.

I have to admit that it had a slow start for me but once Cam is swept away into the 17th century and Peter is in the picture... well, needless to say, it picked up rather quickly after that. There were some very funny moments scattered throughout that not only brought a smile to my face but more than once had me laughing out loud. From Cam's zany antics trying to text message and get enough bars to make a call on her iPhone to her use of names that were definitely not recognized in the 17th century (i.e. Antonio Banderas, Katie Holmes, etc.)

This was a fast-paced romance with plenty of drama, mystery and comedy all wrapped up within that uber cute cover (love the shoes). Not to mention there was that age-old struggle in choosing happiness over ambition. All in all, it was a fun, sexy romp that I found very entertaining.

As a side note, there's this fantastic scene where Cam plays Peter's muse that was utterly steamy and toe-curl worthy. le sigh. ;)

This book was provided for review by Simon & Schuster.

Crazy Beautiful by Lauren Baratz-Logsted

In an explosion of his own making, Lucius blew his arms off. Now he has hooks. He chose hooks because they were cheaper. He chose hooks because he wouldn’t outgrow them so quickly. He chose hooks so that everyone would know he was different, so he would scare even himself.

Then he meets Aurora. The hooks don’t scare her. They don’t keep her away. In fact, they don’t make any difference at all to her.

But to Lucius, they mean everything. They remind him of the beast he is inside. Perhaps Aurora is his Beauty, destined to set his soul free from its suffering.

Or maybe she’s just a girl who needs love just like he does. [via GoodReads]

Crazy Beautiful is a very unique retelling of the beloved tale of Beauty and the Beast. Lucius is a tortured soul. Every day he is reminded of the mistakes he made in the past. He has hooks for hands and is always stared at, made fun of, called all sorts of names, and/or completely avoided by the kids in his new school. On the bus ride to his first day of school he meets Aurora. Aurora who is everything he is not. She is beautiful, trendy, bright, popular and perfectly normal. Aurora who instantly feels a connection with Lucius but is hesitant because of the rumors surrounding him... the explosion, his hands, the hooks, the possibility that he might be crazy.

The story is told through alternating viewpoints between Lucius and Aurora. I think Ms. Baratz-Logsted did a fantastic job providing us with both perspectives giving you a more in depth feel for both characters. Plus you get the added bonus of seeing how one situation can be perceived differently by either character.

Now I will forewarn you, if you plan on reading this because it is marketed to be a retelling of Beauty and the Beast, then you will be in for a surprise. For in this story you will find no magic, no rose, no castle. Instead you will find a monster who wasn't overcome by vanity, but instead made the wrong choices in life and now has to live with the repercussions of his own making. This is a love story, but more than just a story about two very different kids falling for each other. It is a story of two kids living life the only way they know how. It is about forgiving and loving oneself. About seeing someone for who they are and not for what they look like. About healing and second chances.

Ms. Baratz-Logsted's writing is lovely and I felt it lent this modern story just the right hint of enchantment and fairytale splendor. My only complaint was that it was so short (208 pages). I read it in one sitting and was saddened that it ended so quickly. I would really have liked there to be more but I also want to make it clear that in no way did I feel like it lacked anything either. On the other hand, it gives you the feeling that you are taking a glimpse into Lucius and Aurora's life. You know there was more before you came along and you know there will be more after you are gone. I think it was pulled off beautifully.

This book was provided for review by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt through NetGalley.

Hold Still by Nina LaCour

Caitlin is beginning her junior year in high school - but she's definitely suffering from much more than beginning-of-the-year jitters. Everything is different for Caitlin this year - her best friend Ingrid is no longer there - she committed suicide and now Caitlin is left reeling from the aftershock and trying to come to terms with the loss of her closest friend.

Not only is Caitlin suffering emotionally, but everyone around her is also affected by her unexpected death. Ms. Delani, the photography teacher, seems to be giving Caitlin the cold shoulder and being overly critical of her work. The kids at school are walking on eggshells around her. Even her parents are concerned over the way she's acting (she's been spending long periods of time in her car parked out front of her house).

Then she finds Ingrid's journal. A journal that Ingrid carried with her at all times of the day and that Caitlin's sure will have all the answers as to why her friend would resort to suicide. Caitlin makes a pact to read one entry a day in the hopes of finding answers... but instead she finds so much more.

I've been wanting to read this book for a while now, but I've been holding off because I knew this story was going to have me on an emotional roller coaster. I must admit that I am pretty impressed with the way Ms. LaCour was able to capture Caitlin's grief in a way where she makes it YOUR grief. From the moment you open to its first page until you read it's last sentence, you are on a journey with Caitlin - a journey to find a way of coping and living without someone you love. It's a journey that is heartbreaking, emotional, thoughtful, even painful ... one that will bring tears to your eyes, but will also leave you feeling hopeful and lighthearted.

This story is beautifully executed - it captures all aspects of adolesence and brings them into perspective. The characters were captivating. The story was emotional, raw, powerful. It definitely resonated with me and will not be quickly forgotten.

The Body Finder by Kimberly Derting

Title:  The Body Finder
Author: Kimberly Derting

Pages: 352

Genre:  YA/ Paranormal

Source:  Purchased

Violet Ambrose is your average girl next door except for her one unique ability... she can sense the dead and the imprint that is left behind on their killer. It can come as a smell, a sound, a change in atmosphere - but somehow she be will alerted that something dead is near and it calls to her. Needless to say, it was quite the surprise when at 8 years old this uncanny gift led her to a dead girl's body. Lucky for her, she has a supportive family who not only understand her needs to find the dead (and that includes all sorts of dead critters) but will also help her put them to rest. Then there is her BFF, Jay Heaton.

Jay is the only person outside of her immediate family who knows of her gift. They have been best friends since childhood and are very comfortable with their day to day lives. But all that is about to change. Somehow over the summer, Jay has had a growth spurt and his boyish looks are a thing of the past... he has grown into a very good looking young man and Violet's feelings for him (although she's desperately trying to put up a struggle) are making her feel quite uncomfortable when she starts seeing Jay as a hottie instead of her dorky BFF.

But on top of all her worrying over her feelings for Jay, a serial killer has begun terrorizing Violet's small town and bodies are popping up everywhere. It soon becomes apparent that Violet's "deadly" ability might be what this town needs to find the killer.

Forgive my gushing but... I LOVED this book. It is so expertly done - with such wonderful play between light and darkness. What an amazing debut by Kimberly Derting!

There are so many things that I liked about this book. For starters, I thought the whole aspect of the serial killer and Violet's ability to be very unique in a YA novel. Violet was amazing - she was strong, resilient and, considering her gift is so morbid, she never let it bring her down. I also enjoyed that she was not a bumbling idiot, falling all over the place and not knowing what to do. She was smart, brave and took it upon herself to use her ability in a positive manner. Don't take me wrong, she was not perfect and she didn't always make the right choices, but that's exactly what made her likeable, relateable and realistic.

But what I truly loved about this novel was... VIOLET AND JAY! JAY AND VIOLET! They were just amazing together. Ms. Derting did a fabulous job in really fleshing their relationship out. You automatically get their camaraderie, but as their feelings change all the flirting and sexual tension is definitely one that I found true to life. Their dialogue and interaction with one another was sigh worthy.

All in all, I found The Body Finder to be a very refreshing and unique story. It did not have any of the love triangles, or whiny lead females, that seem to be popular at the moment. Instead you get a very likeable leading lady, with fantastic friends and family, throw in a little bit of mystery and suspense, and then add a budding romance that I could not get enough of, and it was the perfect mixture. I cannot wait to see what Ms. Derting comes out with next, but for now, get yourself a copy of The Body Finder, you will not be disappointed.

My Rating: