tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34945371284620965342024-02-07T19:15:57.538-08:00Recent ReadsFictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-72699358351972761212012-03-25T15:47:00.000-07:002012-03-25T15:47:38.702-07:00Ally Condie's Crossed<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8s4Ctk_f15JduS5MfzbOquwZDgpG_MT2lxkiQOzO-4nn19pGr1sHvagZ7IvOKficXDxaqI-5AZJ_503GH8xf9zcmphgBr6FN6sL8il6ibL_lGTCym0mjK7WD1Hpp2KXMiB4sAIJPgTLU/s1600/crossed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8s4Ctk_f15JduS5MfzbOquwZDgpG_MT2lxkiQOzO-4nn19pGr1sHvagZ7IvOKficXDxaqI-5AZJ_503GH8xf9zcmphgBr6FN6sL8il6ibL_lGTCym0mjK7WD1Hpp2KXMiB4sAIJPgTLU/s1600/crossed.jpg" /></a></div>So, if you follow me on Twitter, you know that I've been in quite the reading slump. I went through a streak of excellent books, unfortunately I read them back to back and didn't review the books as I should've. Call it bad luck or karma, but I've gone through several books that I was less than impressed with and it made me kinda depressed. Does that happen to you?<br />
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In hopes of finding a captivating story, I put on my "sequel shoes" and went looking for something that I knew would give me my needed book fix.<br />
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What I found was Ally Condie's <i>Crossed</i>, which is the second installment of the <i>Matched </i>trilogy.<br />
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Cassie Reyes has left her family in search of Ky Markham, the Aberration that she loves and sent to the Outer Provinces in the first novel. She works in the villages, hoping to get closer to Ky. Condie's poetic writing style is captivating, and she's able to capture this young love in such a mature manner. Cassie and Ky are just kids, but they seem so much more mature and observant than most adults I know. In Cassie's journey, she learns of a rebellion against the Society and becomes eager to join.<br />
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I predict that this trilogy will follow a similar pattern of <i>The Hunger Games</i>. The only thing <i>Matched</i> has in common with THG is that they are both dystopian and lead to a rebellion.<br />
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If you choose to read the <i>Matched </i>trilogy, I recommend that you read the books in close succession. Most authors take some time in the beginning of a novel to give you some background information, and therefore refresh your memory, but Condie doesn't. I read <i>Matched</i> about two years ago, and I spent a large amount of time trying to remember the plot of the previous book. <br />
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Will I read <i>Reached? </i>I suppose I will, but I'm going to save it for when I need to put on my "sequel shoes."<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF3bK4dBr8_RhQ4PX4lYarlZGxBCFNyU3Vtl8SoMF9KBz4yaBbPHON-7KCKVNMpGg3LdE8up9AoxLOpOhnje6L-PUlU1bQBmqRkOlUohCkfu0sYiH5HtZ32bNWA9gfScVb3A-5YHp8GgY/s1600/matched.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgF3bK4dBr8_RhQ4PX4lYarlZGxBCFNyU3Vtl8SoMF9KBz4yaBbPHON-7KCKVNMpGg3LdE8up9AoxLOpOhnje6L-PUlU1bQBmqRkOlUohCkfu0sYiH5HtZ32bNWA9gfScVb3A-5YHp8GgY/s320/matched.JPG" width="212" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDoaeJTlL2Fygt0r1WmmrThB5PvyAzRFxkIfK_t9ze94q-aB_6j2yHKraVov1EkbUa-vzHPRLxsX2yXt11ICHZo2Zn2WJDWOLBHEQBFH1bmKK2GLEZV2hnRSzbPNziGpWJ5fAWuo027xw/s1600/reached.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDoaeJTlL2Fygt0r1WmmrThB5PvyAzRFxkIfK_t9ze94q-aB_6j2yHKraVov1EkbUa-vzHPRLxsX2yXt11ICHZo2Zn2WJDWOLBHEQBFH1bmKK2GLEZV2hnRSzbPNziGpWJ5fAWuo027xw/s1600/reached.jpg" /></a></div>FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-5757602357109132632012-03-12T12:24:00.000-07:002012-03-12T12:24:01.005-07:00Tatiana De Rosnay's Sarah's Key- Not for kids<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgksDHaGDn90J51TxxYbPDCZtmKxDwffbxQmQ07ipMWqYgVxlGlzhYFuZ-bbWBTfexWIkHu9reEiapqMGcAlKPXez2jJ1t2my4zdhBg1P7liTLu8NhMDp_sqvdRtu2lCWX9R9BDiQrLhJ8/s1600/sarahs+key.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgksDHaGDn90J51TxxYbPDCZtmKxDwffbxQmQ07ipMWqYgVxlGlzhYFuZ-bbWBTfexWIkHu9reEiapqMGcAlKPXez2jJ1t2my4zdhBg1P7liTLu8NhMDp_sqvdRtu2lCWX9R9BDiQrLhJ8/s320/sarahs+key.jpg" width="206" /></a></div>This novel was at the book fair at my middle school campus, and I don't know why.<br />
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De Rosnay tells a story of the French roundup on July 16, 1942 at the Velodrome d'Hiver. The Vel' d'Hiv became known as one of the largest roundups of French Jews during the occupation. What's so horrific about it is that it was ran by French police, under German orders, and the Jews were treated so inhumanely. The families were forced to stay in a large stadium for days without any food or water. Then, they were all shipped to a holding camp. The parents were brutally separated from their children, and sent away to Auschwitz to die. The children remained at Beaune-la-Rolande, until receiving orders to go to Auschwitz.<br />
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De Rosnay made it very clear that this novel is not to be interpreted as a historical fiction, but as a way to remember what happened to those thousands of innocent children. The author ties the past and the present together by telling the story from two perspectives: an American journalist living in Paris during 2002, and 10 year old Sarah who lived through the roundup.<br />
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The novel is a beautifully written and horrific story. I had difficulty keeping my emotions in control. The novel stayed with me so much, that I would lie awake at night and think about my daughter and what would/couldn't do to save her.FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-6077766184538940102012-03-02T07:29:00.000-08:002012-03-02T07:29:24.825-08:00Maggie O'Farrell's The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox- Not for kids<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhepSiC7S0xFjns1gmZLPKrghB9g4l9ijFf9ANBIViW8aQNSyn-L8B47WgdeSZ2bsjk_IqEDf7vxfae4e4axKN03y875-tHY08HC75bZJjzgs4YBuwnKBXoCbRbvWCPmo18CiknppPWlpA/s1600/esmelennox.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhepSiC7S0xFjns1gmZLPKrghB9g4l9ijFf9ANBIViW8aQNSyn-L8B47WgdeSZ2bsjk_IqEDf7vxfae4e4axKN03y875-tHY08HC75bZJjzgs4YBuwnKBXoCbRbvWCPmo18CiknppPWlpA/s320/esmelennox.jpg" uda="true" width="212" /></a></div>WARNING: I HAVE A TEENSY WEENSY SPOILER IN THIS REVIEW.<br />
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Iris Lockhart has always believed that her grandmother, Kitty, was an only child. Until Iris gets a call from Cauldstone psychiatric hospital, explaining that a woman named Esme Lennox is to be released. At first, Esme is in disbelief that she has a family member that she doesn't know about.<br />
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What I like about the novel is that O'Farrell tells the story from the perspective of three women: Esme, Iris, and Kitty. Iris is a single woman, and has two married men in love with her. Esme has been in an institution for 61 years, and is free for the first time. Kitty has Alzheimer's, and her memories come to her in patches. Through Esme and Kitty's memories, their story unfolds and family secrets are revealed.<br />
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What I didn't like about the novel is the way O'Farrell organized the plot line. The story was not broken down into chapters or sections, it's just a long and continuous story without any stopping points. Also, the way that the author chooses to switch the characters' point of view is strange. In one paragraph, you are reading a memory from Esme's point of view. In the next, you are reading one of Kitty's patchy memories. The only way one can tell the point of view is by the use of the character's names.<br />
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Another thing that makes the novel harder to follow is the need to infer all the major points of the story. The author never comes out and clearly says why Esme was institutionalized, but you can infer that it's because Esme's parents were tired of her antics. Through the telling of the story there are hints at a diagnosis, like schizophrenia or personality disorder, but I don't think there's anything wrong with her. At most, my guess is that she has Asperger's Syndrome. The reason I think so is because of the emotional outbursts, not being able to interpret appropriate social behavior, and the meticulous counting and observations she makes throughout the novel. By today's standards, that isn't a reason to have someone committed to a psychiatric institution.<br />
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Oh, and about Esme? What the heck! All that poor girl needed was someone to love her and appreciate her quirks. Instead, she is left alone in India for days with a nanny and a brother that died of typhoid disease. She was raped in the coat closet at a party, just before being committed. Did anyone even realize that Jamie hurt her? I wonder this because his parents sent him away, but through Kitty's memories you learn that she was jealous and still pining for him after Esme was sent away.<br />
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You also have to infer what Kitty took from Esme, and that's the big secret. Plus, I'm a little foggy on how the story ends. I don't want to reveal too much but if you decide to read the novel, I'd like to know your thoughts.<br />
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Overall, I think that the story has a great story line and a ton of potential. I just didn't like how the novel was organized, and unfortunately we can't cater books to meet our needs.FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-72853523219749018012012-02-27T09:53:00.001-08:002012-02-27T09:58:41.749-08:00Stephen King's 11/22/63- Not For Kids<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuN6lKBnqvKZIKIUDxEyRb99iBVhkNJSJj6_3PTXoWowhnvpKQWadqMjRshAdMZFrPnRwVyX89-n468PM_R33u90fzlWPWJGZAGPvtCrQvflDXarjnswZ5qDyI6HbO94TpGXH7Hfg75Tk/s1600/112263.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" lda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuN6lKBnqvKZIKIUDxEyRb99iBVhkNJSJj6_3PTXoWowhnvpKQWadqMjRshAdMZFrPnRwVyX89-n468PM_R33u90fzlWPWJGZAGPvtCrQvflDXarjnswZ5qDyI6HbO94TpGXH7Hfg75Tk/s1600/112263.jpg" /></a></div>Historical fiction makes me feel tingly in funny places. It's ok for me to say that, right?<br />
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After taking a trip to the 6th Floor Museum in Dealey Plaza, my interest in JFK's assassination had been renewed. I got the book, hoping to learn more about the assassination and the time period (I'm guessing you already know how I feel about historicals). <br />
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Jake Epping, English teacher divorcee with a penchant for cheap hamburgers, gets a late night call from the owner of his favorite hamburger joint, Al. Surprised to even get the call, Jake humors his friend and meets him at the diner. Once he arrives, Jake learns of a "rabbit hole" that would take him back to September of 1958.<br />
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After Jake gets a grasp on the "rabbit hole" and accepts it as truth, Al then proposes a theory to him: saving JFK from being assassinated would prevent the assassination of Martin Luther King, Jr, racial wars, and Vietnam War. Al convinces Jake that he could save millions by going back to 1958 with a mission to save Kennedy.<br />
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Reluctantly Jake Epping goes back in time to become George Amberson, an aspiring writer/realtor travelling on business. <br />
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In traditional Stephen King fashion, the novel is woven with intricate, smaller plot lines that ultimately lead up to November 22, 1963.<br />
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I was born in the 80's, and I have no idea what 1958 was like. King paints such a detailed picture, down to cigarette smoke, bus exhaust fumes, and limited air conditioning; that I can imagine walking through the rabbit hole and feeling the September 1958 sun shining on my face.<br />
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Well done, Mr. King. Well done.FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-10133255453644895332012-02-12T15:15:00.000-08:002012-02-12T15:15:36.742-08:00Jennifer McMahon's Promise Not to Tell- Not for kids<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikd2oxP7A3qICXKw2aBIId0hwrNze80hwM9fQOjFhu6MlCTi9TCBFBgOhtOCXyQp5o8HyDJrDHxjfuFuBesEu9Ph2pfmK1U5NbiLWGI2XeGCBM5o8N9XfgvC748j5zxMMvCCCOSR_Hgbk/s1600/promisenottotell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikd2oxP7A3qICXKw2aBIId0hwrNze80hwM9fQOjFhu6MlCTi9TCBFBgOhtOCXyQp5o8HyDJrDHxjfuFuBesEu9Ph2pfmK1U5NbiLWGI2XeGCBM5o8N9XfgvC748j5zxMMvCCCOSR_Hgbk/s1600/promisenottotell.jpg" /></a></div>This book had been on my reading list for about a year. Why didn't I read it sooner?<br />
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Kate Cypher has returned to her hippie village in Vermont, to care for her elderly mother. Upon her return, a young girl is brutally murdered. Strange things start happening in New Hope, as law enforcement tries to solve this young girl's murder. Thirty years earlier Kate's best friend is murdered the same way, and Kate must also deal with her part in Del's murder.<br />
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The author tells Kate's story of present and past, through flashbacks organized in a reader friendly way. I like how each chapter is labeled with the time period, and it's easy to switch back and forth. The author brings in a unique style of living that intrigues me, and leaves me in constant suspense. <br />
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I work in a school, with kids in the same age group as Del. I see how cruel kids can be to one another, and I hear of heartbreaking circumstances daily. I guess this book has struck a chord with me because of what I have seen and heard in real life. I can't stop thinking about this book, and yet it leaves me without much to say.FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-46920896811985361342012-02-04T14:16:00.000-08:002012-02-04T14:16:14.326-08:00Gareth Flood's Oil and Corruption<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaEhxQxCLBYdwSCqwb0ry3d9Eo7OGq1yA9uKzLtshuMuPeF0WRLovYqShvhoGJGKgfz0rdj_6rGn45oS6aWeWRkTNcsDabqLxqjaLVNiXNVxBZgzevZupCjqZkKCQpX0VQxH35J24Kdn8/s1600/oilandcorruption.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaEhxQxCLBYdwSCqwb0ry3d9Eo7OGq1yA9uKzLtshuMuPeF0WRLovYqShvhoGJGKgfz0rdj_6rGn45oS6aWeWRkTNcsDabqLxqjaLVNiXNVxBZgzevZupCjqZkKCQpX0VQxH35J24Kdn8/s320/oilandcorruption.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Upon reading the synopsis of the novel, I see that the author described it as "nefarious." In some ways it is, but in others I thought it was funny. Like <i>Inglorious Basterds </i>funny. Maybe that's not what the author intended, but that's my interpretation.<br />
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The novel is about an British man, Jonathan Marshall, who is just some underdog analyst for a major oil corporation. He completes an analysis for another coworker and people start dying, including his coworker and several attempts on his life.<br />
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I thought the novel to be funny for several reasons. The author covers very intense and serious subject matter, but he uses words and phrases such as "The last of the coins were fed in faster than the slot machine rate of a Florida retiree with cancer in Vegas," to create images that may/may not be intentionally funny. The author also uses the same style of writing to create a character's inner thoughts. My favorite example is "He is more slippery than a greased pig." Hilarious, or is it just me?<br />
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Another reason I thought the novel was so funny was the way the characters were described and developed. Most of the characters are pretty flat, with the exception of Jonathan Marshall. That's ok, it works for this book. Let's just examine some of these other characters:<br />
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Hoot Mitchel: Oil tycoon and CEO, who is killed to pave the way for new oil pipelines. The way I imagine this guy is not very flattering. He's stupid wealthy, fat (thinks he's God's gift), and his dialect gives the impression of the stereotypical-dumbass-American that says "Amuricah" for "America."<br />
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The Cajun, The Tartan, The Nasty Arab, One Dirty Hebe- All of these are the "muscle man" for their bosses. The Cajun and The Tartan are "secret weapons," assassins that are killing machines meant for mass destruction. What's funny about these killers is that they all have a stereotypical character trait magnified. If people like this really exist, then I don't know what I'm gonna do....<br />
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Overall, the book is a good read. If the funny parts weren't intended in this "nefarious tale," then it's an extra bonus.FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-15379739482587297902012-01-29T07:37:00.000-08:002012-01-29T07:37:08.047-08:00Sarah Addison Allen's The Sugar Queen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbi7LSkfVpmyS_45LOk2nunV_efc5CgKEbbVgDZOyPtz2W9ncnyPVqVsdPVFMWP580BJcOmbqEyZ8Z4g-8mv8Z_1XbzxPetRkyusQuHhoagd0QoOmAsMQPhUps-DIMf3riyTnDWPV7KW4/s1600/sugar_queen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbi7LSkfVpmyS_45LOk2nunV_efc5CgKEbbVgDZOyPtz2W9ncnyPVqVsdPVFMWP580BJcOmbqEyZ8Z4g-8mv8Z_1XbzxPetRkyusQuHhoagd0QoOmAsMQPhUps-DIMf3riyTnDWPV7KW4/s320/sugar_queen.jpg" width="214" /></a></div>Until recently, I have been reading mostly thrillers and mysteries. By today's standards, some of the violence and gruesome scenes can effect the way I see the world and myself. Dumb, I know. But I'm addicted to fiction and sometimes I internalize too much. To break the spell, I have to switch genre and get an attitude adjustment.<br />
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And I have fallen under a spell, by Sara Addison Allen. I have already read <i>Garden Spells</i>, her debut novel, and I loved it! I didn't see myself reading another of her novels, but a friend loaned it to me and I'm glad she did.<br />
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<i>The Sugar Queen</i> also takes place in North Carolina, where southern belles and the romance of The South still exist. Allen mixes together ideals of southern belles, magic, and romance together to weave a tale that is certain to lift your spirits.<br />
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Josey Cirrini, daughter of famed Italian Marco Cirrini and beautiful southern belle Margaret, is trapped in her life. Living in a small town, everyone remembers her as a child, and as daughter of Marco and Margaret Cirrini. Her mother wants to force her to be caretaker, punishing her for her existence. Josey wants forgiveness and permission to leave.<br />
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Feeling trapped in her life, Josey traps herself into her closet which is stashed with junk food and magazines. What she doesn't expect to find is hardened Della Lee, who has a past and a story to tell.<br />
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Combined with Della Lee's efforts and a new friendship with Chloe Finley, Josey finds herself and everything she's ever wanted.FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-62499262726721016662012-01-29T07:22:00.000-08:002012-01-29T07:22:13.546-08:00Veronica Roth's Divergent<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7G5G8BAv5iD1RdRxHe5NytU4R_u8od2PeUoClQVvwF4P3suc8-U6vk4Jd0rhJ9ucC5kMx_UZ7p9ExnRdc9kBMUha6OyPeFitUEnDuVHTb7z4ltuMQUNgjgKPlIjm7BqgXVgIRtN6DkY8/s1600/Divergent+hc+c%282%29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7G5G8BAv5iD1RdRxHe5NytU4R_u8od2PeUoClQVvwF4P3suc8-U6vk4Jd0rhJ9ucC5kMx_UZ7p9ExnRdc9kBMUha6OyPeFitUEnDuVHTb7z4ltuMQUNgjgKPlIjm7BqgXVgIRtN6DkY8/s320/Divergent+hc+c%282%29.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>Did you like <i>The Hunger Games?</i> I think you'll like this one better!<br />
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Roth creates a world broken into five factions, based on how they believe democracy failed. If you live in Abnegation, then you believe that the leaders were selfish. If you live in Dauntless, then the leaders were cowards. If you live in Erudite, then you believe that citizens didn't seek enough knowledge. Candor is for those who felt lying led to our demise. Amity is for those who believe that the world isn't kind enough.<br />
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When a citizen turns sixteen, he is required to take a special aptitude test to help determine which faction he will live in. The results of the aptitude test aren't the only factors in making your decision. But you have to choose wisely. If you decide to transfer into another faction, then you abandon your family and your old faction, adopting the new motto "faction before blood."<br />
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Beatrice Prior is sixteen, and she will be taking the aptitude along with her brother. Beatrice's results are inconclusive, and she will have to choose her faction based on how she feels and her obligations to her family.<br />
<br />
I recently learned that this book is part of a trilogy, and I don't even care. I devoured this novel and will wait patiently until May, when the next installment is released.FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-20800967062036285852012-01-22T18:39:00.000-08:002012-01-22T18:39:08.726-08:00Suzanne Weyn's Distant Waves<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipameZgJsI7xWLtvABReLSWO9lzaJomNx1B9jEWvleafFKmJvAc5DJQaC6DBu_33clDFs4VEigBxJLhNI3dsC3Zxr841poHJLEQd0jY4hz5c6f48aTGUPJcLrVM3CtqD11qF6Yt4UdLPY/s1600/distant+waves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipameZgJsI7xWLtvABReLSWO9lzaJomNx1B9jEWvleafFKmJvAc5DJQaC6DBu_33clDFs4VEigBxJLhNI3dsC3Zxr841poHJLEQd0jY4hz5c6f48aTGUPJcLrVM3CtqD11qF6Yt4UdLPY/s320/distant+waves.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>Weyn incorporates fiction with historical fact in <i>Distant Waves</i>.<br />
<br />
An intricate tale is woven around several characters, some real and some fiction. The Taylor sisters are from Spirit Vale, which is based on Lily Dale in New York. They find themselves on board <i>Titanic</i>, having seen several premonitions of the ship's demise.<br />
<br />
The plot is more complicated than five sisters on board a ship destined to sink. The author weaves in back story including scientific experiments of Nikola Tesla, who historically was not on board the ship. Weyn also managed to include several of the more famous passengers into her story.<br />
<br />
<i>Distant Waves</i> is geared more toward girls between the ages of 11 and 13. Aside from having a limited demographic, I really love the way Weyn wrote this novel. This is a wonderful opportunity to get kids into reading fiction, and brushing up on a history lesson or two.FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-42437826108576150562012-01-16T21:08:00.000-08:002012-01-16T21:08:08.896-08:00Glen R Krisch's Where Darkness Dwells<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqhrP1Nrs6acjgeZd05iKZ6_zqZ67bu0oMBwCBdr6WQDbGEWNtGkB26OSlSpqvOnkKo8Lwx95lFjI2R11WIG_bCOMIKJ9MmP2b2qN2RseG5VOlsUINLcYMQd2sFEROKC-5BqlELnVI_VQ/s1600/wheredarknessdwells.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqhrP1Nrs6acjgeZd05iKZ6_zqZ67bu0oMBwCBdr6WQDbGEWNtGkB26OSlSpqvOnkKo8Lwx95lFjI2R11WIG_bCOMIKJ9MmP2b2qN2RseG5VOlsUINLcYMQd2sFEROKC-5BqlELnVI_VQ/s320/wheredarknessdwells.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><i>Where Darkness Dwells</i> weaves together the folks of Coal Hollow, an old and almost destitute mining town. The story begins when two boys disappear after going on "one last adventure." One of the boys, George, is brutally murdered and the the other boy, Jimmy, can't be found.<br />
<br />
The town offers the explanation that an animal mangled George's body, but it doesn't sit well with Ellie (George's little sister) and Jacob (Jimmy's little brother). Meanwhile, a transient with a history is drawn to an abandoned house that once belonged to the Blankenships. Cooper can't explain why he's drawn to the house, and he isn't convinced that George was killed by an animal.<br />
<br />
Krisch weaves the characters' truths with historical fiction and myth in his thriller. There are some parts of the story that I am hazy on, and that could just be that I just missed it. These are the questions that I have:<br />
1. How is it that the entire Harris family could be killed by The Collectors, and it seems that the town didn't take notice?<br />
2. What is the force that fuels The Underground? Is it demonic? Or perhaps just the evil and pure hatred that Cartwright, Scully, and the triplets possess?<br />
<br />
I was sucked in after the first 20 pages or so, and I thought the novel is a good read. I also downloaded his first novel, <i>The Nightmare Within</i>, and I seem to be abandoning my "hit 'em and quit 'em" philosophy toward books that aren't in a series.<br />
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</div>FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-84338242646342014192012-01-12T10:03:00.000-08:002012-01-12T10:03:29.744-08:00CJ Omololu's Dirty Little Secrets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRdbAZ0CYle7pNz7AsIow9BNDYgj4YUIUa-DKwNo08NzEuVGsUT3tx0wKVPzBTezc-c6XR95BiU7bI820kYHi7G7cUvrGnFjFCOHknDUxBcP44H9CiGFSVsKIXaS78POne0VxV19B8mms/s1600/dirty-little-secrets-pb-175.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" kba="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRdbAZ0CYle7pNz7AsIow9BNDYgj4YUIUa-DKwNo08NzEuVGsUT3tx0wKVPzBTezc-c6XR95BiU7bI820kYHi7G7cUvrGnFjFCOHknDUxBcP44H9CiGFSVsKIXaS78POne0VxV19B8mms/s1600/dirty-little-secrets-pb-175.jpg" /></a></div>Omololu's <em>Dirty Little Secrets</em> tells the story of Lucy Tompkins, who's mother is a hoarder. Lucy's mother wasn't always a hoarder until her father abandoned them. Since then, Lucy's life has been surrounded by trash and her fear of outsiders seeing how they live.<br />
<br />
Lucy holds on to the fact that she only has two more years to live with her mother. Then she can move out like the rest of her siblings and have a normal life. Lucy finds her mother dead, in the trash-stuffed hallway, of natural causes.<br />
<br />
Then Lucy's problems become compounded: she has to call the police, letting the entire neighborhood (and media) see how her mother has made them live, or she can find a way to cover it up. One could argue that Lucy is, in a sense, also a hoarder because she refuses to ask anyone for help or confide in someone. She holds this secret with her, and lets it decay her psyche.<br />
<br />
After finishing the novel, I am left with one question. What would I do in Lucy's situation?FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-6881722220090872972012-01-09T14:38:00.000-08:002012-01-09T14:39:07.864-08:00Ellen Hopkin's Triangles- Not for kids<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT2v96uGjBo3kxrLGOiuLN19hu17hGkGynerGOQp0ORR_iqRL_29_MDM2alf9ALozi0hJlblPxKXnm2fPf4coksgGi9HdSKAShyphenhyphenX7CzPeeFNenUwFK9T2T-1bWSrfV7U7cg3xgDpm2vZE/s1600/triangles.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" rea="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjT2v96uGjBo3kxrLGOiuLN19hu17hGkGynerGOQp0ORR_iqRL_29_MDM2alf9ALozi0hJlblPxKXnm2fPf4coksgGi9HdSKAShyphenhyphenX7CzPeeFNenUwFK9T2T-1bWSrfV7U7cg3xgDpm2vZE/s320/triangles.jpg" width="217" /></a></div>This is another author that I found via Twitter. When I first downloaded the book, I thought something was wrong with the file or my Nook. There's not anything wrong with either.<br />
<br />
The story is a narrative poem, and it makes a regular story unique. The story is told from the perspectives of three women: Holly, Andrea, and Marissa. They are middle aged, regular women that have issues such as infidelity, being a single parent, or having a child with a terminal illness.<br />
<br />
What makes the story so unique is Hopkin's style. The format is narrative poem, with limited dialogue. Throughout the plot, a character will make a reference to another topic or theme. Then the author will pause on furthering the plot to further explore the mentioned topic or theme. It sounds strange when I describe it, but it works. It's consistent through the entire novel, and it does help bring further understanding to the character's situation. The best I can do is provide an example, from pages 198-199:<br />
<br />
"'Shane, playing David to some kid's Goliath. Only this time the Philistine conquered'.....<br />
<strong>The Philistines</strong><br />
Of biblical fame were<br />
much<br />
too bold for their<br />
britches-<br />
er, kilts-eschewing<br />
their lovely<br />
Greek isle homes in a<br />
bid<br />
to conquer Egypt. A<br />
very <br />
big<br />
ambition, not to <br />
mention<br />
irrational, iron or no<br />
iron....."<br />
<br />
Aside from providing the reader extra insight, the rhythm and word choice is just beautiful. <br />
<br />
Unless I get sucked into another series, I usually have a "hit 'em and quit 'em" mentality in regards to reading multiple texts by the same author. Ellen Hopkins, you are an exception and I have added more of your work to my reading list....FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-49249392975755862312012-01-01T18:44:00.000-08:002012-01-01T18:44:16.911-08:00Rachel Vincent's Soul Screamers Volume One<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9IgzzR57p7I2YCeF_-kSLd3UJ-pyRMAvxAg8VqpEPoC4ZFZb4RbZ0WYJ5pIolnyYQo13_cpPjD1vHf6qQzeL9bTvEf8gjbEJAHSuKARXUqH0TnCjAgs-uuqP89tnoi0L_p6lswfg5o1E/s1600/soulscreamers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9IgzzR57p7I2YCeF_-kSLd3UJ-pyRMAvxAg8VqpEPoC4ZFZb4RbZ0WYJ5pIolnyYQo13_cpPjD1vHf6qQzeL9bTvEf8gjbEJAHSuKARXUqH0TnCjAgs-uuqP89tnoi0L_p6lswfg5o1E/s1600/soulscreamers.jpg" /></a></div>Vincent's <i>Soul Screamers Volume One</i> is a collection of three different stories from the same series. The stories all focus around one character, Kaylee Cavanaugh.<br />
<br />
<b>My Soul to Lose</b><br />
In the first installment, Kaylee is unaware of her supernatural heritage. She sums up the episodes of grief and the unyielding desire to scream to panic attacks. When she has a panic attack in public, she later becomes admitted into a psychiatric ward.<br />
<br />
<b>My Soul to Take</b><br />
The second installment picks up right where the first left off. Kaylee has left the psychiatric ward, and is trying to hide her panic at all costs to avoid a one way ticket back to the psych ward. When young, beautiful girls start collapsing to their death, Kaylee learns that she is not crazy. She is <i>bean sidhe</i>. Kaylee isn't screaming in panic, but wailing for the departed's soul. To humans around her, the scream sounds like an earth-shattering screech. To the soul, Kaylee's song is comforting and beautiful.<br />
<b> </b><br />
<b>My Soul to Save</b><br />
The last installment of the volume happens to be my favorite. When Kaylee and her bean sidhe boyfriend are at a concert, the pop star falls dead. And Kaylee didn't feel the need to sing for her. Instead, she learns that people can sell their souls for worldly possessions. When the person dies, Kaylee doesn't wail because that person has no soul.<b> </b><b></b><br />
<br />
I searched all over the interwebs for a song that would represent what I think Kaylee's soul song sounds like, but to no avail. I did, however, find a brief piano riff that makes me think of the Netherworld.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mxFww4UyHdI&feature=related">Kaylee's Journey to the Netherworld</a><br />
<br />
The song is from <i>Requiem for a Dream</i>; I'm reminded of evil's intensity and huge sacrifices people make for small pleasures.<br />
<br />
If you choose to read Vincent's <i>Soul Screamers</i>, I recommend that it is done in smaller increments. I read all three stories back to back. I enjoyed all three stories, but reading them in close succession cause me to not fully absorb the story. I also got too comfortable with Vincent's writing style, and found myself predicting events of the plot instead of experiencing them with Kaylee.FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-35493532994327054362011-12-31T13:05:00.000-08:002011-12-31T13:05:37.766-08:00Jay Asher and Carolyn Mackler's The Future of Us<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKzIx_2_T5VN53XxpiP-FQRIkUv_vqkbb-hlEO_mwqPWlXpvu8ad2siiJOssmsaN93LBZGbDu3eHoV6AOx726EatF5qKPnOpGFh7NrdtVb-Nn2N1D5pryreEDjUQNK52Orh6gxZ1T8eSM/s1600/future+of+us.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKzIx_2_T5VN53XxpiP-FQRIkUv_vqkbb-hlEO_mwqPWlXpvu8ad2siiJOssmsaN93LBZGbDu3eHoV6AOx726EatF5qKPnOpGFh7NrdtVb-Nn2N1D5pryreEDjUQNK52Orh6gxZ1T8eSM/s320/future+of+us.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Asher and Mackler's <i>The Future of Us</i> is a total mash up of decade-specific pop culture! I grew up in the 90's, where the plot of the story takes place, and it was a blast from the past to see references to beepers and Discmans.<br />
<br />
The story is told from the point of view of two high school students, Emma and Josh, who live in 1996. 1996 offers the introduction to the home PC, dial up Internet, instant messages, and email accounts for the general populace.<br />
<br />
What Emma discovers the first time she logs on to her computer is Facebook (which doesn't become relevant until the turn of the century). Emma and Josh see themselves 15 years into the future, and don't like what they discover.<br />
<br />
The two kids discover how small changes in the present can greatly impact the future: down to spouse, career, location, and happiness. Ultimately, the two teens learn a very important lesson....<br />
<br />
I thought seeing how two kids from the 90's respond to Facebook was hilarious! For me, Facebook and other social media is so ingrained in my lifestyle that I can't see myself without it. I don't think twice about logging into Facebook to read other status updates or post my own. And they are usually one or two lines and just as insignificant! <br />
<br />
I'm sure that the writers' vision of the story ended the way it was supposed to. Throughout the novel, Emma and Josh are logging onto Facebook to see how their present day choices impact the future, and we see what's to come of them. As the reader, my wish is to see what happens to Emma and Josh post Facebook. Since we aren't able to see into our own futures, or get an epilogue for that matter, I see why the story ends the way it does.<br />
<br />
Now, every time I make a decision, I can't help but wonder what impact it will have on the future me!FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-22683009029899134862011-12-27T13:29:00.000-08:002011-12-27T13:29:46.071-08:00April Henry's Girl, Stolen<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7jGH-dkc9tEf-3z2pDZzbwBtbZBMthNC6Cqi2wtcmveheP7QWF5RziVQZK7RTK0faMsJ7d_l6KZwBmf6W6-gV3fWfQY0FtvbD_Rw13YeRFX83W_uy-9gFu3E0qySPuC2HBlVRHc0BTIM/s1600/girl+stolen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7jGH-dkc9tEf-3z2pDZzbwBtbZBMthNC6Cqi2wtcmveheP7QWF5RziVQZK7RTK0faMsJ7d_l6KZwBmf6W6-gV3fWfQY0FtvbD_Rw13YeRFX83W_uy-9gFu3E0qySPuC2HBlVRHc0BTIM/s320/girl+stolen.jpg" width="215" /></a></div>Henry's <i>Girl, Stolen</i> is an action packed tale of a teenage girl, who is also blind, who has been kidnapped by mistake. <br />
<br />
Cheyenne Wilder is sleeping in the back of her stepmother's SUV when someone steals it, not realizing that she is in the backseat. When her kidnappers realize that she is in the car, and is blind, Cheyenne must succumb to the realization that she might never make it home alive.<br />
<br />
Personally, I don't know anything about what it's like to be blind, or the coping skills that a blind person must master to be independent and successful in life. I think Henry's portrayal of Cheyenne's character gives a lot of insight into how a person with a visual handicap might live, and subsequently how they are treated in society.<br />
<br />
The story is told from two perspectives, Cheyenne and her kidnapper Griffin's. The reader is allowed to see how the victim and perpetrator struggle with their situation, and try to figure out what to do.<br />
<br />
I also think this novel is good for young teens to read, simply because it allows them to put themselves in Cheyenne's situation. Kids don't often think they can fall victim to kidnapping or other tragic circumstances, and hopefully kids will see how important it is to be aware of their environment.FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-50328921534721757762011-12-22T10:43:00.000-08:002012-01-09T14:41:54.517-08:00Caroline Hanson's Love is Fear- Not for kids<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX1JZwAOy5UfNRpo10E-WmF9FkRvIBAK-4Qz_QQB45Sh6sKUi1a8j_7QVZjE72ucj5MvVIgdD3arlCGkCNO0j3CmVUHkEMYfLHHbt-vQfJADuFwHcIgxzHD1J_VC64uxSE_A3Ynmibc7c/s1600/Love+is+Fear+actual.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiX1JZwAOy5UfNRpo10E-WmF9FkRvIBAK-4Qz_QQB45Sh6sKUi1a8j_7QVZjE72ucj5MvVIgdD3arlCGkCNO0j3CmVUHkEMYfLHHbt-vQfJADuFwHcIgxzHD1J_VC64uxSE_A3Ynmibc7c/s320/Love+is+Fear+actual.jpeg" width="213" /></a></div>You know how authors will say that their books are like their babies? Well I feel like this one is a niece or nephew, or maybe even a distant cousin, because I got to read it before it was published. Needless to say, my review might be a bit biased. Just a little.<br />
<br />
Valerie Dearborn finds herself in a pickle... again. This time it's not just the metaphorical one that signifies one being in trouble (catch my drift?). Val is an empath, which is a type of supernatural being which can provide balance between weres, vamps, and now fairies. Unfortunately, all the supes have their own agendas, and want to use Val for their own purposes.<br />
<br />
I'm oh so excited that Hanson has brought back more of the historical aspect with the disappearance of Roanoke settlers. She provides a fantastical explanation: that the Fey king tried to protect all the living fairies in a spell gone wrong.<br />
<br />
I'm predicting that the next book will give more explanation of the Fey agenda. Also, there's some drama between Rachel, Jack, and Val that needs to be addressed. Oh, and all the trouble Val's gotten herself into with Lucas. How will this all pan out?<br />
<br />
Oh, and ooh la la! Val and Lucas finally do it already. Bown-ch-ch-wow-wow! The scene goes on forever and it is HOT!<br />
<br />
As I read, I thought of several songs that could go with the characters and the plot lines. With some of them, you have to take the song out of context and look at the lines individually. With author's permission, maybe I might do an additional blog with the soundtrack. But for your reading pleasure, here is a song that Hanson thought fit Val's character, and I agree.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://youtu.be/GwTXwJg6_VE">Snow Patrol- Out in the Dark</a><br />
<br />
Enjoy! I know I did....FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-62588496316666089242011-12-19T08:06:00.000-08:002011-12-19T08:06:51.469-08:00Douglas Dorow's The Ninth District<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHe_iu6Crz0Cjsdr3Yo7OhNk7z6mTAPCSh46ftVTGrkdjcDUSFndBYvjnVwpCTwDiiwur1xNLogcQMiH8p0xu5gmOUonZMFo44zI09X0oAIeYhADRp7nyJoPA4GUsYQhUbsXQcUNghaUA/s1600/TheNinthDistrict_Final.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHe_iu6Crz0Cjsdr3Yo7OhNk7z6mTAPCSh46ftVTGrkdjcDUSFndBYvjnVwpCTwDiiwur1xNLogcQMiH8p0xu5gmOUonZMFo44zI09X0oAIeYhADRp7nyJoPA4GUsYQhUbsXQcUNghaUA/s320/TheNinthDistrict_Final.jpg" width="210" /></a></div>Dorow's <i>The Ninth District</i> is a suspense thriller about a bank robber and an FBI agent. Anyone who has read or watched a suspense thriller has seen one with a heroic FBI agent that saves the day, right?<br />
<br />
<i>The Ninth District</i> is unique in a few ways. The point of view switches back and forth between the perspectives of Special Agent Jack Miller and The General, the-crazy-killer-bank-robbing-mastermind. Through alternating perspectives, Dorow builds character and allows the reader to get to know the characters. He also fills the reader in on plot clues, at the just the right times, which allows the reader to fill in pieces of the plot.<br />
<br />
Earlier I said that he builds character. You do get to know all the characters really well, except for The General. As the reader, I would like to explore more of The General's motivation and even his psychological health. Why did he shoot and kill a pregnant woman? What about his life made him so heartless?<br />
<br />
Maybe I wasn't reading closely, but I'm hazy on how the FBI agents learned the identity of The General. Miller comes to the realization of what TG is after on a family outing. When he calls his partner Ross, we learn that the FBI already had information on TG. And then we are all of a sudden have a search warrant and we are in TG's apartment..... I really wish that detail wasn't left out, as Dorow takes so much care to include all the other necessary details.<br />
<br />
Overall, it was a nice break from some of the other genres I have been reading lately. I wasn't at all disappointed, and I downloaded two more suspense thrillers.<br />
<br />
Thanks, Doug!FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-48525136862674072722011-12-07T08:08:00.000-08:002011-12-07T08:08:38.121-08:00Stephanie Nelson's Craved<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb65K7myGu391y8_YgAXdT_7bXIG1YaMRqDiWqtFeP4CGXt9w-9z0urq3mal-51hWjzqj3d_zIuYLrCJip6-8NltMhePtCIp0SI4vQlMRkaxpnRkHEB48t7PF9l0qnexTFmnFgIuKDPTE/s1600/craved.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" mda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb65K7myGu391y8_YgAXdT_7bXIG1YaMRqDiWqtFeP4CGXt9w-9z0urq3mal-51hWjzqj3d_zIuYLrCJip6-8NltMhePtCIp0SI4vQlMRkaxpnRkHEB48t7PF9l0qnexTFmnFgIuKDPTE/s1600/craved.bmp" /></a></div>Nelson's <em>Craved</em> is a story of supernatural beings cohabiting in the small town of Flora, where someone has been killing witches for their blood. Cool concept, right? I think it's best if I review this novel with "glows" and "grows," since this is her first book and I am but a novice reviewer.<br />
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Glows: I love the catchy names she has for the businesses in the town. Gwen Sparks, our witchy heroine, owns a bookstore called "Broomsticks." The local coffee shop is called "Espresso Self." Her take on vampires becoming addicted to witches' blood, called brew (another catchy name), is interesting. Overall, the plot is suspenseful and engaging. The love scenes are steamy, and the characters are likable enough to keep interest.<br />
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Grows: Since Nelson created an entire city dedicated to supernaturals, there needs to be some back story on how this came to be. She briefly mentions that the humans didn't want to live with them, and that leads me to believe that there are some segregation issues or past events that need to be explained. Nelson develops Gwen's character nicely, but I feel like the other characters are superficial. What made Aiden Blake fall in love with her so quickly? Why does Fiona seem like such a ditz?<br />
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There were also some editing mistakes that drove me a little batty. There was a discrepancy in how long Gwen had been out of the relationship with Micah. It doesn't have that great of an impact on the story, but still. There was also some grammatical mistakes, but that could've been formatting issues.<br />
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I can see the direction that the next novel is taking, and it will be suspenseful and entertaining. I do feel like there are some other plot lines that could be followed, especially if we get more back story on Flora. I could see Ian endanger towns full of humans to get to Gwen- and then maybe humans and sups might have to overcome their differences and work together.<br />
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I did enjoy reading the book, and I will read the other Gwen Sparks installments.FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-3702030376807785282011-12-02T11:21:00.000-08:002011-12-02T11:21:00.750-08:00Mark Edward Hall's The Fear<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwXBjFkVeEc3Ek8TcCG8qSUqN9aVOFPuJTYcvw7UIzBYCL3lQ8DEEYalf3WBIajvtkHUqBUI6sTQkPzekWCtBjVsCcuIK31SHrvJz1cT441omsrSu5FSkZeoDbTY3GPfRKZcL7dx1W8_Q/s1600/thefear.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwXBjFkVeEc3Ek8TcCG8qSUqN9aVOFPuJTYcvw7UIzBYCL3lQ8DEEYalf3WBIajvtkHUqBUI6sTQkPzekWCtBjVsCcuIK31SHrvJz1cT441omsrSu5FSkZeoDbTY3GPfRKZcL7dx1W8_Q/s1600/thefear.bmp" /></a></div>I tried my hand at horror again, and I thought this was pretty good! Honestly, I was pretty scared because the cover looks all creepy (I'm learning that the horror stories with religious connections and EXTREME gore are the ones I have a hard time with). I am guilty of judging books by the cover (I do it all the time), and this is one instance when I'm glad I didn't.<br />
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The Fear is a novella, about 65 pages and a pretty quick read. The story centers around socially awkward Mitch, who has some serious "momma issues." He wakes up from a living nightmare, completely covered in blood, and afraid. Legitimately, seriously, afraid and he can't figure out why. The nightmares are similar to the ones he had as a boy that were connected to a string of mysterious murders in his small town of Eden.<br />
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As Mitch solves the mystery behind his nightmares and the murders, you will find that there's more sustenance than just gore and scary images. Irony is a bitch, Mitch.FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-6181447133858970252011-12-01T16:34:00.000-08:002011-12-02T07:27:55.882-08:00Brian Selznick's Wonderstruck<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmLrywAaADApcNsbTlmchWmUv12YtTVrjpXw3g3KQ2iA9sYR3AvkFN9WM2lpmzqF5mFe5p38erpk01KQs_hxcsirxtjKmL5dju_q2SjwcasW8CTd64MKpxsxo-3ZdZC3wyaXVwW1jnMcQ/s1600/Wonderstruck-Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmLrywAaADApcNsbTlmchWmUv12YtTVrjpXw3g3KQ2iA9sYR3AvkFN9WM2lpmzqF5mFe5p38erpk01KQs_hxcsirxtjKmL5dju_q2SjwcasW8CTd64MKpxsxo-3ZdZC3wyaXVwW1jnMcQ/s320/Wonderstruck-Cover.jpg" width="211" /></a></div>If you don't like this book, then I'm calling the doctor. Something's wrong with you.<br />
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But seriously, Brian Selznick writes for a versatile audience. Kids from the age of 9 all the way to the oldest of adults can find something to appreciate about this book. He combines immaculate illustrations with text to complete an entire story.<br />
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Ben, an orphaned and deaf boy, goes on a journey to find his father and discovers much, much more about himself. I don't want to reveal too much more of the plot because I want you to discover Ben's story with him, and have a "wonder struck" feeling of your own.<br />
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Usually I don't have a preference for a novel in regards to the physical book or download. In this case, I would recommend buying the book if you can. There is just something about turning the pages and seeing the story unfold in your lap. <br />
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Even though I'm writing about <i>Wonder Struck</i>, let me just go ahead and put in my endorsement for <i>The Invention of Hugo Cabret</i>. Brian Selznick, I wish I had half of the talent that you have in your pinky finger.FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-8929597530162081482011-11-30T15:00:00.000-08:002011-11-30T15:00:35.753-08:00Hillary Jordan's When She Woke<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHKsb7nwZ056tC7M5rEOz15wlw_3j9hnDZTe_xK8CAVGHVoHSlukNrr4971ubh0dT-ajKTf1jEnwLb0uxsNxRmU8eSsJ-7ZJ3VeANRepQmbmEXJuTzl1f5r0oWXrFp3BWmDSWMpbDB4Ys/s1600/whenshewoke.bmp" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" dda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHKsb7nwZ056tC7M5rEOz15wlw_3j9hnDZTe_xK8CAVGHVoHSlukNrr4971ubh0dT-ajKTf1jEnwLb0uxsNxRmU8eSsJ-7ZJ3VeANRepQmbmEXJuTzl1f5r0oWXrFp3BWmDSWMpbDB4Ys/s1600/whenshewoke.bmp" /></a></div>This novel is H E A V Y. It takes so many twists and turns, that I even question my own moral compass.<br />
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When I started the novel, I thought it would be a modern rendition of <em>The Scarlet Letter</em>. In some ways it is. There are parallels in the characters' names, talents, and punishment. But that's where <em>The Scarlet Letter </em>stops and <em>When She Woke</em> begins.<br />
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Hannah Payne is a young woman involved in her church, close with her family, confining herself to the social norms that are acceptable for her world. When she falls in love with a man that can never be hers and eventually becomes pregnant, that small world opens up to reveal the true face of evil and humanity.<br />
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Jordan's writing style is beautiful and passionate. I can tell that the content in her novel is something that she holds close to her. It makes me wonder who she is and what kind of life experiences she's had, if she's been forced into her fair share of boxes.<br />
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I promise you will question your beliefs when you read this novel. Whether you are pro life or pro choice, have an opinion about same sex relationships, and how crimes are punished, it makes no difference. Jordan will take you on a journey, forcing you to see both sides of the spectrum, and perhaps have an awakening of your own. FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-83328381747148356982011-11-25T12:37:00.000-08:002011-11-25T12:37:55.528-08:00Rose Pressey's Ghouls Night Out<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZVHcCXhjTK-F9PAdq6J1vbBA8ZQeUehYxmnZl4ue-AN2Dl8eVxLIRK7MjteG8HSVXPJp0qpqYvvPqgEADvKNbxbxB2eHtqTg3eyVlSPDdTAJf02S1JiLR1L6mhvUM9tnDCtpRLx3FXDk/s1600/rosepressey.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZVHcCXhjTK-F9PAdq6J1vbBA8ZQeUehYxmnZl4ue-AN2Dl8eVxLIRK7MjteG8HSVXPJp0qpqYvvPqgEADvKNbxbxB2eHtqTg3eyVlSPDdTAJf02S1JiLR1L6mhvUM9tnDCtpRLx3FXDk/s1600/rosepressey.jpeg" /></a></div>Pressey's Ghouls Night Out is another lighthearted tale of medium/ bookstore owner Larue Donovan. After uncovering Brianna's love spell and rescuing her beau from an awful life with Brianna, you would think all is well, right? Well, it's not. Karyn offers Larue the position of coven leader, and suddenly things start going awry. Could it be a demon or another witch practicing black magic? What lengths would you go through to save your best friend?<br />
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I thought GNO was more enjoyable than Me and My Ghoulfriends. Personally, I couldn't relate to Larue's love issues in the previous installment. But going on a mission to save a best friend? Totally engrossed!<br />
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I also like how Pressey incorporates dead celebrities into her novels. I think it would be funny to have a devious duo like Bonnie and Clyde that don't realize they're dead.....Or perhaps Mindy attracts a "love ghost" and Larue has to persuade the poor guy to go over to the other side. Or maybe Pressey will branch out from the lighthearted and write in a demon to send back to hell. Either way, I look forward to the new installments and who will be following Laure on her next mission.<br />
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And I'm so looking forward to inviting my gal pals over for a Mindyrita night.....FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-20255713113185003442011-11-19T08:29:00.000-08:002011-11-19T08:29:47.362-08:00JS Bannerman's The Pitchfork Diaries- NOT FOR KIDS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDop7SjXyQ5iEUh4540UfqBTqfI4O5uY6-hxnr1pij0sbPwjPuvjJxO47D8MRmv62q5ELAQ0swezixRpjY0lYC1L32QgAm39hzgjE11-hZy8-OO9OoLFgA6cuQnyl2DEqM5Adp2NkU1Ng/s1600/pitchfork.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDop7SjXyQ5iEUh4540UfqBTqfI4O5uY6-hxnr1pij0sbPwjPuvjJxO47D8MRmv62q5ELAQ0swezixRpjY0lYC1L32QgAm39hzgjE11-hZy8-OO9OoLFgA6cuQnyl2DEqM5Adp2NkU1Ng/s320/pitchfork.jpg" width="244" /></a></div>Reader discretion is advised! Okay, so maybe I'm not addicted to all types of fiction.<br />
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Bannerman's The Pitchfork Diaries is a compilation of short stories in the extreme horror genre. I feel like I can best write this review in the form of "glows and grows," while I pretend to be a book reviewer and know what I'm talking about.<br />
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Glows: Bannerman is a really good writer! He has excellent style and syntax. His descriptions are detailed, visceral, and evocative. I suppose these descriptions are what an author of extreme horror looks for. I was easily able to visualize the descriptions in each of the stories, and his matter of fact tone created a gag-reflective mood in me.<br />
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Grows: Although the stories are short, and not meant to provide a full background, some of the stories I thought were really good and deserved to have some of the "plot holes" filled. I know the author has a novel that is soon to be released, and I think it would be cool to see a full and complete story from Bannerman (I'm just not so sure I can stomach it).<br />
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I just can't get over the content, really. You know "Separation of Church and State?" Well, I guess in the literary world, especially the genre of horror, I would like a separation of church and fiction. I happen to like movies such as "The Exorcist" and "The Omen," which I imagine had the religious folks up in arms back in the day. I consider myself to be a fairly desensitized person, but some of the images that the author created don't sit well with me. I am a Catholic, although not a very good one, and I do hold the crucifix and the goodness of Christ close to my heart. Maybe this is a compliment to the author's descriptive skills, but my stomach didn't sit well (I didn't poo my pants, but I might've cried and barfed in my mouth a little bit).<br />
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This author has done something that I've never been able to do: publish literary work and create a following. To that, I must pay much respect. I've learned that extreme horror isn't my bag, but that doesn't mean it isn't yours.<br />
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Bannerman, if you ever write a kinda-scary-psychological-thriller-with-only-a-little-bit-of gore, I'll be one of the first to download.FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-80053816283609418902011-11-18T20:42:00.000-08:002011-11-18T20:42:25.147-08:00Michelle Zink's Circle of Fire WARNING! Spoiler!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-sDbbhlVVFaoTHWAQNcEdI-qCrku-bKwoQuazVatBYCO8oO0BtdLP8dd0xX5BHdYdIGJlnNLJJArM5zpPQlhp44b2SDCCQBLwP5F2tPx-2qJBXP_Qpx5FDfAX0fNWbyoKQ93-wo13N6k/s1600/circle+of+fire.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-sDbbhlVVFaoTHWAQNcEdI-qCrku-bKwoQuazVatBYCO8oO0BtdLP8dd0xX5BHdYdIGJlnNLJJArM5zpPQlhp44b2SDCCQBLwP5F2tPx-2qJBXP_Qpx5FDfAX0fNWbyoKQ93-wo13N6k/s320/circle+of+fire.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>Wow.<br />
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Circle of Fire is the last installment of the Prophecy of the Sisters trilogy, and I'm breathless. When I read TPotS, Zink was amazing at building a rather large and complex back story with brevity. I was amazed at how much information could be given with such intensity and even fewer words. Guardian of the Gate is the second installment, and I think this novel is important in understanding the danger of the prophecy, and everyone's role. Zink really played on sibling rivalry, I think, and not just with Alice. Yes, the two were at odds because of their roles in the prophecy, but Lia is also betrayed by another sister, Sonia. After reading Circle of Fire, all I'm left with are certain images in my mind.<br />
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I think of the Jorgamund, which is an image of a snake eating its own tail. The shape forms a circle, and I think phrases such as "Circle of Life," and "ending full circle." The prophecy ends at Avebury, where it began. Clearly, the Jorgamund is a symbol for the prophecy's birth and Samael's demise. But I wonder if the image of a snake eating its own tale foreshadows Samael's evil dissolving within itself as Lia closes the gate.<br />
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I also think of the Rite at Avebury, and the way Zink described all the necessary preparations. To me, I thought of a wedding. The bride being left alone, with a trusted friend, to prepare herself for the future while the others are making final preparations. They walk in a procession together, dressed in purple robes. In the Roman Catholic church, priests wear purple vestments to symbolize the pain and suffering during the season of Lent. Lia is constantly reminded of the pain and sacrifices she has made in the name of the prophecy, and her fear of giving into evil. Purple was the perfect choice for her!<br />
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I knew Alice wasn't such a crazy/cruel/greedy bitch after all. Alice and Lia's childhood didn't revolve around the prophecy, and I knew that Alice really did love her sister. I was so relieved when she came through in the end. <br />
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I love to read historical fiction, mostly because I love to visualize lifestyles from another place and time. The nerdy part of me is attracted to language and phrases are are true to the period of the piece. Zink used phrases such as "work in concert" that are not in our everyday vernacular. What I want to know is how an author researches and uses proper dialect in historical writing. It just makes my brain hurt.<br />
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Overall, I think The Prophecy of the Sisters is an excellent read. I'm glad to have closure and look forward to reading more of Zink's work.FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3494537128462096534.post-91254606001931557092011-11-06T09:57:00.000-08:002011-11-06T09:57:53.260-08:00Rose Pressey's Me and My Ghoulfriends<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAuZqq6jpfWbGS1_Gy65Exd6JLKW1Mzt75sdoCM266H9PRm6RZodP-kwHSjF3L_cYwtcJujTo-fxH4tvcsKClBnfH1lRnLgNEq9jmrQ7aEW-V4Bvxx8KDzyGZF50vvajl7p7sB02oygfQ/s1600/meandmyghoulfriendsbyrosepressey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAuZqq6jpfWbGS1_Gy65Exd6JLKW1Mzt75sdoCM266H9PRm6RZodP-kwHSjF3L_cYwtcJujTo-fxH4tvcsKClBnfH1lRnLgNEq9jmrQ7aEW-V4Bvxx8KDzyGZF50vvajl7p7sB02oygfQ/s320/meandmyghoulfriendsbyrosepressey.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Pressey's Me and My Ghoulfriends is lighthearted, and a fun read. The novel centers around Larue Donavan, a bookstore owning medium with a pretty boring love life. When Laure finally meets a great guy, he is cast under a love spell by Larue's bitchy nemesis, Brianna.<br />
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I immediately enjoyed reading the book. Pressey's sense of humor comes to life in the first page, and I am also interested in paranormal activity. I liked reading about the spirits that become attached to Larue. <br />
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Pressey does an excellent job developing the characters. I feel like I got to know Laure pretty well, and even Mindy too. For a novel with such light content, I would've liked it to be shorter and more to the point. The book is 639 pages, and primarily consists of swooning over the love-struck boy next door. Honestly I felt like I was back in high school, sitting by the phone, and wondering if he'll call. I'm all for reading a romance novel, I just would've liked to see more development with the ghosts and their unfinished business.<br />
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I did download the second installment of Pressey's Larue Donavan series, Ghouls Night Out. I do look forward to reading it, and I hope that I can relate to Larue's troubles a little better. FictionAddicthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17470809412258053335noreply@blogger.com0