WINNER!

The summer is almost over and school is about to start, so I decided to spend all morning counting up entries to find the winner of my 100 Followers Giveaway!! (And it literally blew my mind how many of you entered — including extra entries, there were over one thousand!)

The winner, chosen by random.org, is:

Kandee @ Pretty Little Book Head

Congratulations! I just emailed you to confirm your book choice and address.

If you didn't win, don't worry! I'm going to be hosting another giveaway to celebrate my new 300+ followers, so check back tomorrow. And let me just tell you, you don't want to miss it! :)

You guys are so awesome! <3

-Mimi

Waiting on Wednesday: Crossed

 

 Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by the awesome Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is: 

Crossed by Ally Condie

The hotly awaited second book in the dystopian Matched trilogy.

In search of a future that may not exist and faced with the decision of who to share it with, Cassia journeys to the Outer Provinces in pursuit of Ky - taken by the Society to his certain death - only to find that he has escaped, leaving a series of clues in his wake.

Cassia's quest leads her to question much of what she holds dear, even as she finds glimmers of a different life across the border. But as Cassia nears resolve and certainty about her future with Ky, an invitation for rebellion, an unexpected betrayal, and a surprise visit from Xander - who may hold the key to the uprising and, still, to Cassia's heart - change the game once again. Nothing is as expected on the edge of Society, where crosses and double crosses make the path more twisted than ever.

(summary taken from Goodreads) 

Release Date: November 1, 2011

I have a huge thing for dystopian right now, and I adored Matched in particular. It was so sweet! And the synopsis for Crossed sounds ten times more intense! Plus, I'm having some serious cover love! :)

WHAT BOOK ARE YOU WAITING FOR? 

-Mimi

Review: Vampire Academy

Book: Vampire Academy
Author: Richelle Mead
Release Date: August 16, 2007
Publisher: Razorbill
Pages: 332
Source: KPL
Stars: 4.5/5

St. Vladimir’s Academy isn’t just any boarding school—it’s a hidden place where vampires are educated in the ways of magic and half-human teens train to protect them. Rose Hathaway is a Dhampir, a bodyguard for her best friend Lissa, a Moroi Vampire Princess. They’ve been on the run, but now they’re being dragged back to St. Vladimir’s—the very place where they’re most in danger.... 

Rose and Lissa become enmeshed in forbidden romance, the Academy’s ruthless social scene, and unspeakable nighttime rituals. But they must be careful lest the Strigoi—the world’s fiercest and most dangerous vampires—make Lissa one of them forever.

(summary taken from Goodreads) 

MY THOUGHTS:  

WOW! Even with all the vampire books out there right now, Vampire Academy is definitely one of the more impressive favourites! I just love it so much more than I thought I would. It's original and complicated in that I-want-to-know-more sort of way.  

Everything about this book entertains. From the clever writing style, to the snarky heroine, to the fast-paced plot, I couldn't stop reading until it was done! It doesn't end on a cliffhanger (yay!), but that doesn't lessen your urge to immediately pick up the next book at all. 

Rose deserves every praise anyone has ever given her! She's smart, bad-ass, straightforward, and fiercely protective of those she cares about. I admire her through-and-through! And I love her entire relationship with Dimitri, partly because I have a huge thing for guys with accents and partly because forbidden romance has never looked so good. 

This entire book is an action-packed ride that surprises you at every turn! I recommend it to everyone wholeheartedly, whether you like vampires or not (because you probably will, after reading this). Vampire Academy is an awesome first book to a bound-to-be breathtaking series! 

BUY or BORROW?: Buy this one to start your VA collection! It's so good! :) 

-Mimi 

P.S. In case you were wondering, I only docked half a star because I loved Christian and Rose wasn't very nice to him. That is all.

Review: Firelight

Book: Firelight
Author: Sophie Jordan
Release Date: September 7, 2010
Publisher: HarperTeen
Pages: 323
Source: won from publisher in a writing contest
Stars: 4/5

A hidden truth.
Mortal enemies.
Doomed love. 

Marked as special at an early age, Jacinda knows her every move is watched. But she longs for freedom to make her own choices. When she breaks the most sacred tenet among her kind, she nearly pays with her life. Until a beautiful stranger saves her. A stranger who was sent to hunt those like her. For Jacinda is a draki—a descendant of dragons whose greatest defense is her secret ability to shift into human form. 

Forced to flee into the mortal world with her family, Jacinda struggles to adapt to her new surroundings. The only bright light is Will. Gorgeous, elusive Will who stirs her inner draki to life. Although she is irresistibly drawn to him, Jacinda knows Will's dark secret: He and his family are hunters. She should avoid him at all costs. But her inner draki is slowly slipping away—if it dies she will be left as a human forever. She'll do anything to prevent that. Even if it means getting closer to her most dangerous enemy.

Mythical powers and breathtaking romance ignite in this story of a girl who defies all expectations and whose love crosses an ancient divide.

(summary taken from Goodreads) 

MY THOUGHTS:  

After reading about vampires, werewolves, faeries, and angels, I was thrilled that Firelight revolved around a totally different kind of mythical creature: dragons. And boy, I wasn't disappointed!

Everything about the draki is so cool, especially that they can transform into human form. Even though Jacinda and her family escape from their pride (draki community) early on, Sophie Jordan does an awesome job with sucking you into the whole descendant-of-dragons thing, making you want to know much, much more! 

I adore Jacinda. She's tough, determined, and a much better person than her twin sister (who I do not like). Even when she's forced to move away from her pride, she doesn't give up on trying to keep her draki alive. And the attraction between Jacinda and Will (the very hot, very surprising draki hunter made of awesomeness) literally sends sparks flying off the page!

Overall, Firelight is an exhilarating and refreshing novel that had me hooked from page one. Sophie Jordan's quick and effortless writing style, added to the fast-moving plot, makes it incredibly easy to fly through in a night. I'm definitely picking up the next book, Vanish, when it comes out in September!  

BUY or BORROW?: Buy this one for sure! The gorgeous cover (which is so pretty with the scales around the eye) and original plot (which is just an amazing thing on its own) make this a novel you absolutely want on your bookshelf! 

-Mimi

Review: Shade

Book: Shade
Author: Jeri Smith-Ready
Release Date: May 4, 2010
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Pages: 309
Source: KPL
Stars: 4.5/5

Love ties them together. Death can't tear them apart. 

Best. Birthday. Ever. At least, it was supposed to be. With Logan's band playing a critical gig and Aura's plans for an intimate after-party, Aura knows it will be the most memorable night of her boyfriend's life. She never thought it would be his last. 

Logan's sudden death leaves Aura devastated. He's gone. 

Well, sort of. 

Like everyone born after the Shift, Aura can see and hear ghosts. This mysterious ability has always been annoying, and Aura had wanted nothing more than to figure out why the Shift happened so she can undo it. But not with Logan's violet-hued spirit still hanging around. Because dead Logan is almost as real as ever. Almost. 

It doesn't help that Aura's new friend Zachary is so understanding—and so very alive. His support means more to Aura than she cares to admit. 

As Aura's relationships with the dead and the living grow ever complicated, so do her feelings for Logan and Zachary. Each holds a piece of Aura's heart...and clues to the secret of the Shift.

(summary taken from Goodreads)

MY THOUGHTS:  

Jeri jumping jacks, this book was awesome!

I picked it up in recommendation without knowing what to expect. To be honest, neither the cover nor synopsis really caught my eye. But I just adored it. 

From the very first page, Shade sucked me into a fascinating world where every child born after the Shift (which occurred sixteen years ago) could see the violet ghosts of those unable to pass on. Every little detail was amazing and believable! Jeri Smith-Ready managed to create one of the most compelling worlds I've read in a while — and, given the amount of books I read, that's saying something.

The love triangle was so much better than I expected it to be, too. It was authentic in every way, and I can honestly say that I was torn between the two incredible guys. Super hot exchange student or (dead) rocker boyfriend? Hardest question of life! I'm so anxious to see who our heroine Aura (another reason why I adore this book) chooses in the sequel.

Original, brilliant, and well-written, Shade was a thrilling roller coaster ride that had me grinning like an idiot in some parts and wanting to throw the book across the room in others. Because of the mature content and language (note the warning here!), it's definitely a book I'd recommend to all older teens, if not everybody! :)

BUY or BORROW?: Buy it! Even if you're not the biggest fan of the cover (like me), what's inside is definitely worth every penny!

-Mimi

Follow Friday #13

Hey, everybody!

For those who don't know, Follow Friday is a blog hop hosted by the super-duper awesome Parajunkee & Alison Can Read! It's a great way to meet new people and expand your list of friends over Blogger, and it's really easy to join, too! :)

All you have to do is:

1. (Required) Follow the Follow My Book Blog Hosts (Parajunkee & Alison Can Read)
2. (Required) Follow the featured bloggers of the week. (Jenni Elyse & Caught in the Pages)
3. Put your blog name and URL in the Linky thing. 
4. Grab the the button up there and place it in a post (so people can say hi in the comments!).
5. Follow, follow, follow as many as you can, as many as you want, or just only a few. The whole point is to make new friends and find new blogs! Also, don't just follow, comment and say hi. Another blogger might not know you are a new follower if you don't say "HI!"
6. If someone comments and follows you, share the love! Follow them back ;)
7. If you're new to the Follow Friday hop, comment and let Parajunkee & Alison know, so they can stop by and check out your blog!

Q: In books like the Sookie Stackhouse (True Blood) series, the paranormal creature in question "comes out of the closet" and makes itself known to the world. What mythical creature do you wish would come out of the closet, for real?

A: Oh my gosh, if any paranormal/mythical creature came out of the closet, it would be insanely awesome! But I have to say that I'd really want to publicly hang out with shifters and witches because they're just so cool!

I'm not so sure about faeries because they're kind of slippery in that sneaky sort of way. But I wouldn't mind having vampire friends either as long as they don't take their debut into society as a chance to drink some public blood!

What about you? :) 

HAPPY FOLLOW FRIDAY! 

-Mimi

P.S.: Don't forget to enter my 100 Followers Giveaway if you haven't already! All you have to do is be a follower and it's international! :)

Review: Passion

Book: Passion
Author: Lauren Kate
Release Date: June 14, 2011
Publisher: Random House Children's Books
Pages: 432
Source: KPL
Stars: 3/5

Luce would die for Daniel.

And she has. Over and over again. Throughout time, Luce and Daniel have found each other, only to be painfully torn apart: Luce dead, Daniel left broken and alone. But perhaps it doesn’t need to be that way. . . .

Luce is certain that something—or someone—in a past life can help her in her present one. So she begins the most important journey of this lifetime . . . going back eternities to witness firsthand her romances with Daniel . . . and finally unlock the key to making their love last.

Cam and the legions of angels and Outcasts are desperate to catch Luce, but none are as frantic as Daniel. He chases Luce through their shared pasts, terrified of what might happen if she rewrites history.

Because their romance for the ages could go up in flames . . . forever.

Sweeping across centuries, PASSION is the third novel in the unforgettably epic FALLEN series.

(summary taken from Goodreads)

MY THOUGHTS:  

Have you ever read a book that confused the heck out of you, yet you still couldn't put it down? That's what Passion was like for me! 

It continues right from where the second book left off, with Luce plunging into the Announcers to see her (many) past lives. That was one confusing part: the third person narrative sometimes made it a little hard to follow which Luce was which (even though her past selves were named different variations of 'Luce').

I really liked the first two books, so I was sad because I felt like not much happened in Passion. It was just Luce exploring her past lives. She hardly even got to see Daniel — or anyone, really! I kept thinking, "Okay, something exciting is going to happen!" But when the action stayed a straight line, I got pretty frustrated.

And I miss Cam.

Still, Lauren Kate's gothic prose made the book hard to put down, and the last part of Passion was epic, intense, and a great set-up for the finale, Rapture. This series is definitely my guilty pleasure — I'm craving to read the hopefully amazing conclusion! 

BUY or BORROW?: I think this book made me a bit too frustrated for me to read it more than once, but maybe that's just me. x)

-Mimi

Waiting on Wednesday: The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer

 

 Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by the awesome Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is: 

The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin

Mara Dyer doesn't think life can get any stranger than waking up in a hospital with no memory of how she got there. 

It can.

She believes there must be more to the accident she can't remember that killed her friends and left her mysteriously unharmed.

There is.

She doesn't believe that after everything she's been through, she can fall in love.

She's wrong.

(summary taken from Goodreads)

Release Date: September 27, 2011

Squeal with me if you thought this cover was just gorgeous when you first saw it! And that synopsis? September can't come fast enough! :) 

WHAT BOOK ARE YOU WAITING FOR? 

-Mimi

Review: Raised by Wolves

Book: Raised by Wolves
Author: Jennifer Lynn Barnes
Release Date: June 8, 2010
Publisher: Egmont USA
Pages: 418
Source: KPL
Stars: 5/5

Adopted by the Alpha of a werewolf pack after a rogue wolf brutally killed her parents right before her eyes, fifteen-year-old Bryn knows only pack life, and the rigid social hierarchy that controls it. That doesn't mean that she's averse to breaking a rule or two.

But when her curiosity gets the better of her and she discovers Chase, a new teen locked in a cage in her guardian's basement, and witnesses him turn into a wolf before her eyes, the horrific memories of her parents' murders return. Bryn becomes obsessed with getting her questions answered, and Chase is the only one who can provide the information she needs.

But in her drive to find the truth, will Bryn push too far beyond the constraints of the pack, forcing her to leave behind her friends, her family, and the identity that she's shaped?

(summary taken from Goodreads)

MY THOUGHTS:

There are so many werewolf books out today that it's hard to decide which ones to read and which ones to pass, but Raised by Wolves is definitely one that you need to pick up!

From the very first page, you get sucked into Bryn's life where she's just a regular human girl who was raised by wolves (I love that the title actually has something to do with the main idea of the book!). Bryn is an awesome character — she's spunky, fun, and as tough as the werewolves that she grew up with.

The whole cast in this novel is pure awesomeness. From Bryn's best friend Devon to her alpha/guardian Callum to the werewolf boy she finds locked up in the basement (Chase! ♥), they each work extremely well together to make the plot of the novel pick up the pace!

As fun to read as it is packed with awesome werewolf action, Raised by Wolves is a thrilling, well-written novel that's perfect for anyone who is remotely interested in werewolf hierarchy. 

BUY or BORROW?: Buy this book! It's definitely one that I would read again and again!

-Mimi

Review: Uncommon Criminals

Book: Uncommon Criminals
Author: Ally Carter
Release Date: October 25, 2011
Publisher: Harlequin
Pages: 386
Source: KPL
Stars: 5/5

Katarina Bishop has worn a lot of labels in her short life life. Friend. Niece. Daughter. Thief. But for the last two months she’s simply been known as the girl who ran the crew that robbed the greatest museum in the world. That’s why Kat isn’t surprised when she’s asked to steal the infamous Cleopatra Emerald so it can be returned to its rightful owners.

There are only three problems. First, the gem hasn’t been seen in public in thirty years. Second, since the fall of the Egyptian empire and the suicide of Cleopatra, no one who holds the emerald keeps it for long, and in Kat’s world, history almost always repeats itself. But it’s the third problem that makes Kat’s crew the most nervous and that is simply… the emerald is cursed.

Kat might be in way over her head, but she’s not going down without a fight. After all she has her best friend—the gorgeous Hale—and the rest of her crew with her as they chase the Cleopatra around the globe, dodging curses, realizing that the same tricks and cons her family has used for centuries are useless this time.

Which means, this time, Katarina Bishop is making up her own rules.

(summary taken from Goodreads)

MY THOUGHTS:  

I seriously love all of Ally Carter's books, and Uncommon Criminals is no exception!  

One thing I adore about this series is that you don't have to read one book to understand the others — although it's way more fun if you pick up the first book, Heist Society (read my review here), anyways! Uncommon Criminals carries its own fast-paced plot yet reflects on the first in a super fun way.  

The cast in this novel is one of my favourites. Each of these genius, con artist teenagers are clever, fun, and hilariously witty. Kat, our awesome heroine, continues to amaze me with her solutions to tough situations that I never would have thought of. I just adore her because she's not like any other thief in her family — Kat only steals to return things to others. Sort of like Robin Hood. 

And the two hot thieves pining for her constantly make me smile (and swoon)!  

Although a little hard to get into at first, Uncommon Criminals was a blast to read! It was engaging and nicely executed, with lovable characters and another excellent heist-driven plot that kept me guessing to the very end. I couldn't put it down!  

BUY or BORROW?: This is definitely a series you need on your shelf! Pure, clever fun!

-Mimi

Blog Buttons!!

Yay! I'm super excited now because I finally got my own blog buttons — and can I just gush about how much I love them? Because I really do! :)

Here's the first one:

<center><a href=" http://diminutivemimi.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Mimi Valentine" src=" http://i1081.photobucket.com/albums/j359/Mimi-Vee/MimiButton.jpg"/></a></center>

And here's the second one: 

<center><a href=" http://diminutivemimi.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Mimi Valentine" src=" http://i1081.photobucket.com/albums/j359/Mimi-Vee/MimiButton2.jpg"/></a></center>

I wouldn't mind if you decided to put one on your blog! *hint hint* ;)

What do you think? :)

-Mimi

Follow Friday #12

Hi, everybody!

For those who don't know, Follow Friday is a blog hop hosted by the super-duper awesome Parajunkee & Alison Can Read! It's a great way to meet new people and expand your list of friends over Blogger, and it's really easy to join, too! :)

All you have to do is:

1. (Required) Follow the Follow My Book Blog Hosts (Parajunkee & Alison Can Read)
2. (Required) Follow the featured bloggers of the week. (Belle Books & Stuck in Books)
3. Put your blog name and URL in the Linky thing. 
4. Grab the the button up there and place it in a post (so people can say hi in the comments!).
5. Follow, follow, follow as many as you can, as many as you want, or just only a few. The whole point is to make new friends and find new blogs! Also, don't just follow, comment and say hi. Another blogger might not know you are a new follower if you don't say "HI!"
6. If someone comments and follows you, share the love! Follow them back ;)
7. If you're new to the Follow Friday hop, comment and let Parajunkee & Alison know, so they can stop by and check out your blog!

Q: If you could write yourself a part in a book, what book would it be and what role would you play in that book? 

A: Now this is a tough question! I think that everyone would want to be the main character in their own story, supernatural or otherwise. Anything other than boring everyday life! ;)

But if I'd have to choose, I think I'd write myself as a kick-butt teenage Shadowhunter in Cassandra Clare's Mortal Instruments series. Because I love the thought of demon slaying and I just adore the whole supernatural concept of the world!

What about you? :)

HAPPY FOLLOW FRIDAY!

-Mimi  

P.S.: Don't forget to enter my 100 Followers Giveaway if you haven't already! All you have to do is be a follower and it's international! :)

Review: The Iron Knight

Book: The Iron Knight
Author: Julie Kagawa
Release Date: October 25, 2011
Publisher: Harlequin
Pages: 386
Source: received for review (Thank you, Harlequin!)
Stars: 5/5

Ash, former prince of the Winter Court, gave up everything. His title, his throne, even his vow of loyalty. All for a girl... and all for nothing. 

Unless he can earn a soul.

To cold, emotionless faery prince Ash, love was a weakness for mortals and fools. His own love had died a horrible death, killing any gentler feelings the Winter prince might have had. Or so he thought.

Then Meghan Chase—a half human, half fey slip of a girl— smashed through his barricades, binding him to her irrevocably with his oath to be her knight. And when all of Faery nearly fell to the Iron fey, she severed their bond to save his life. Meghan is now the Iron Queen, ruler of a realm where no Winter or Summer fey can survive.

With the (unwelcome) company of his archrival, Summer Court prankster Puck, and the infuriating cait sith Grimalkin, Ash begins a journey he is bound to see through to its end— a quest to find a way to honor his solemn vow to stand by Meghan’s side.

To survive in the Iron realm, Ash must have a soul and a mortal body. But the tests he must face to earn these things are impossible. At least, no one has ever passed to tell the tale.

And then Ash learns something that changes everything. A truth that turns reality upside down, challenges his darkest beliefs and shows him that, sometimes, it takes more than courage to make the ultimate sacrifice.

(summary taken from Goodreads)

MY THOUGHTS:

WOW. That was literally the only word going through my usually busy head after finishing this book. I expected it to be good, but this was just... wow! 

The Iron Fey series is literally my favourite set of faery-oriented novels ever. In every single book, (the mind-blowing) Julie Kagawa manages to expand on extremely lovable characters, put them through heart-wrenching trials, and write descriptions that play like a movie in your mind. Everything she puts down in her beautiful writing style is so easy to imagine!

After the heartbreaking end of the third book in this series, The Iron Queen, I couldn't help but squeal when I found out that there was going to be a fourth book — in Ash's point of view! If you ever thought you loved this amazing Winter prince before, get ready to fall all over again. Many female writers have trouble writing in a guy's point of view, but not Julie Kagawa! Everything about Ash and his interpretation was just flawless!

Full of twists and turns that you don't expect, and following a team of returning characters that you can't help but adore, The Iron Knight is the perfect ending to an amazing series. Definitely one of my favourites! 

BUY or BORROW?: Are you kidding me? Buy it, of course! In fact, while you're at it, buy the whole darn series! If you haven't started reading The Iron Fey books yet, I wholeheartedly recommend that you do so now!

-Mimi

Waiting on Wednesday: Half-Blood

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by the awesome Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is: 

Half-Blood by Jennifer L. Armentrout

The Hematoi descend from the unions of gods and mortals, and the children of two Hematoi-pure-bloods-have godlike powers. Children of Hematoi and mortals-well, not so much. Half-bloods only have two options: become trained Sentinels who hunt and kill daimons or become servants in the homes of the pures.

Seventeen-year-old Alexandria would rather risk her life fighting than waste it scrubbing toilets, but she may end up slumming it anyway. There are several rules that students at the Covenant must follow. Alex has problems with them all, but especially rule #1:

Relationships between pures and halfs are forbidden. 

Unfortunately, she's crushing hard on the totally hot pure-blood Aiden. But falling for Aiden isn't her biggest problem--staying alive long enough to graduate the Covenant and become a Sentinel is. If she fails in her duty, she faces a future worse than death or slavery: being turned into a daimon, and being hunted by Aiden. And that would kind of suck.

(summary taken from Goodreads)

Release Date: October 18, 2011 

There are so many reasons why I want this book that, if I listed them here, you'd probably fall asleep reading them! I absolutely loved the prequel novella Daimon (you can read my review here or download it for free here), so I can't wait to get my hands on a copy of Half-Blood!  

Plus, isn't the cover just gorgeous? :) 

WHAT BOOK ARE YOU WAITING FOR? 

-Mimi

Review: Daimon

Book: Daimon
Author: Jennifer L. Armentrout
Release Date: May 10, 2011
Publisher: Spencer Hill Press
Pages: 62
Source: downloaded free from Spencer Hill Press
Stars: 5/5

For three years, Alexandria has lived among mortals—pretending to be like them and trying to forget the duty she'd been trained to fulfill as a child of a mortal and a demigod. At seventeen, she's pretty much accepted that she's a freak by mortal standards... and that she'll never be prepared for that duty.

According to her mother, that’s a good thing.

But as every descendant of the gods knows, Fate has a way of rearing her ugly head. A horrifying attack forces Alex to flee Miami and try to find her way back to the very place her mother had warned her she should never return—the Covenant. Every step that brings her closer to safety is one more step toward death… because she's being hunted by the very creatures she'd once trained to kill.

The daimons have found her.

(summary taken from Goodreads)

MY THOUGHTS:  

If this isn't a prequel novella at its best, I don't know what it is! 

Tired of shy, socially awkward, and damsel-in-distress heroines? Meet Alex! Alex is the epitome of an awesome female character. She's tough, hilarious, and totally kick-ass — which makes her the perfect voice for this novella!

I just breezed through Daimon. The whole Greek Mythology inspired plot was enough to intrigue me, but the uniquely awesome execution perked my interest even more. It makes me inanely excited to get my hands on a copy of the first book in the Covenant series, Half-Blood, when it comes out in October. 

Overall, Daimon is a well-written, action-packed novella that sets up the stage perfectly for the first book in this series. If you haven't read it yet, I wholeheartedly recommend that you do so right now! 

BUY or BORROW?: Well, considering that it's available free for download here, I suggest that you get it immediately so you can be just as excited for Half-Blood as I am! :)

-Mimi

Review: Thirteen Reasons Why

Book: Thirteen Reasons Why
Author: Jay Asher
Release Date: October 18, 2007
Publisher: Razorbill
Pages: 288
Source: KPL
Stars: 5/5

Clay Jensen returns home from school to find a mysterious box with his name on it lying on his porch. Inside he discovers thirteen cassette tapes recorded by Hannah Baker, his classmate and crush who committed suicide two weeks earlier. 

On tape, Hannah explains that there are thirteen reasons why she decided to end her life. Clay is one of them. If he listens, he'll find out how he made the list.

Through Hannah and Clay's dual narratives, debut author Jay Asher weaves an intricate and heartrending story of confusion and desperation that will deeply affect teen readers.

(summary taken from Goodreads)

MY THOUGHTS:

When I first saw this book around, I avoided it like the plague. I know people who've had to deal with family members taking their own life (and it's awful), so I'm really sensitive about reading a book that revolves around suicide. But now I wish I'd picked this one up sooner. 

Thirteen Reasons Why is an amazing book! Everything about it is just so breathtaking and well-executed and shockingly realistic. As Hannah's telling her story, you get attached to this beautiful girl and find yourself rooting for her to live even though you already know the outcome.

I adore Clay! He's such a genuinely sweet guy; the kind of guy that girls have crushes on and moms just love. So that's why I couldn't help but continuously wonder what his part in Hannah's death could've possibly been. After all, Clay had a crush on Hannah before she died.

But there's not just thirteen separate reasons why Hannah Baker decided to do what she did — they're all connected like an intricate web that I wouldn't be able to write better if I tried. This book shows that suicide isn't caused by just one big reason, but many little ones. I couldn't stop reading until I knew the whole story!

Nothing short of amazing, Thirteen Reasons Why is a beautiful, thought-provoking, and devastating book that kept me up all night. Even if you're hesitant to pick it up like I was, I wholeheartedly recommend that everyone reads it! People have said that this book has saved their life and I don't doubt it one bit.  

BUY or BORROW?: Buy it! It was one of the most touching books I've read this year, and I'm so happy that there's going to be a movie coming out starring Selena Gomez! She's such an awesome actress and I think she'll do great as Hannah. :)

-Mimi

Review: Wolfsbane

Book: Wolfsbane
Author: Andrea Cremer
Release Date: July 26, 2011
Publisher: Penguin Young Readers Group
Pages: 390
Source: bought from Chapters
Stars: 5/5

When Calla Tor wakes up in the lair of the Searchers, her sworn enemies, she’s certain her days are numbered. But then the Searchers make her an offer—one that gives her the chance to destroy her former masters and save the pack—and the man—she left behind. Is Ren worth the price of her freedom? And will Shay stand by her side no matter what? Now in control of her own destiny, Calla must decide which battles are worth fighting and how many trials true love can endure and still survive. 

(summary taken from Goodreads)

MY THOUGHTS:

I didn't think it was possible that I could like this sequel more than I liked Nightshade (because we all have to admit that the first book was amazing), but it came pretty darn close! Whereas Nightshade was pure intensity on a wolfie bun, Wolfsbane doubles that with more twists and turns and casualties that make you want to cry.

Honestly, I adore all of the new characters (especially Connor)! Andrea Cremer creates a big cast in the whole Guardian world, but she somehow manages to make it so each character is memorable and lovable (or, in the case of the villains, hatable! If that's even a word).

Shay is much less annoying in this book (Calla's indecision suddenly feels a whole lot more real to me!) and Ren — oh my gosh, Ren! I don't even have words for the one scene that's he's physically in (and all the ones he's in mentally). Calla has so much to deal with in this book (so much) that I'm constantly wondering how she could've possibly survived.

As fast-paced, action-packed, and romantically sizzling as the first book, Wolfsbane was a breathtaking sequel that kept me reading until the last page was turned. It was impossible to put down! If you haven't started this series yet, you have to go out to the bookstore right now.

(Okay, so I abused brackets in this review — I hope you don't mind!) 

BUY or BORROW?: You need this book on your shelf. Buy it!

-Mimi

Follow Friday #11

Hey, everyone!

For those who don't know, Follow Friday is a blog hop hosted by the super-duper awesome Parajunkee & Alison Can Read! It's a great way to meet new people and expand your list of friends over Blogger, and it's really easy to join, too! :)

All you have to do is:

1. (Required) Follow the Follow My Book Blog Hosts (Parajunkee & Alison Can Read)
2. (Required) Follow the featured bloggers of the week. (Steph Likes Books & Teen Fiction Centre)
3. Put your blog name and URL in the Linky thing. 
4. Grab the the button up there and place it in a post (so people can say hi in the comments!).
5. Follow, follow, follow as many as you can, as many as you want, or just only a few. The whole point is to make new friends and find new blogs! Also, don't just follow, comment and say hi. Another blogger might not know you are a new follower if you don't say "HI!"
6. If someone comments and follows you, share the love! Follow them back ;)
7. If you're new to the Follow Friday hop, comment and let Parajunkee & Alison know, so they can stop by and check out your blog!

Q: How have your reading habits changed since you were a teen? or If you are still a teen, what new genres are you in love with currently?  

A: Since I'm still a teenager (fifteen in October!), I really just love anything that has to do with the whole YA range. I'm not that picky as long as the writing is good, the characters are lovable, and the story is intriguing enough to keep me reading. 

But lately, I guess I have to say that I've fallen into the dystopian craze because it's just so interesting to read. I also love paranormal romance, urban fantasy, and steampunk. Sorry; I'm really bad at picking one thing out of many!

What about you? :)

HAPPY FOLLOW FRIDAY!

-Mimi 

P.S.: Don't forget to enter my 100 Followers Giveaway if you haven't already! All you have to do is be a follower and it's international! :)

Review: Ripple

Book: Ripple
Author: Mandy Hubbard
Release Date: July 21, 2011
Publisher: Razorbill/Penguin
Pages: 272
Source: KPL
Stars: 4/5

Lexi is cursed with a dark secret. Each day she goes to school like a normal teenager, and each night she must swim, or the pain will be unbearable. She is a siren - a deadly mermaid destined to lure men to their watery deaths. After a terrible tragedy, Lexi shut herself off from the world, vowing to protect the ones she loves. But she soon finds herself caught between a new boy at school who may have the power to melt her icy exterior, and a handsome water spirit who says he can break Lexi's curse if she gives up everything else. Lexi is faced with the hardest decision she's ever had to make: the life she's always longed for - or the love she can't live without?

(summary taken from Goodreads)

MY THOUGHTS:

I didn't know what to expect when I picked up this novel (because I've hardly read any books that are about sirens), but I ended up adoring Ripple! Mandy Hubbard takes what little I know about these supernatural creatures and twists it into something beautiful and romantic and utterly compelling.

Lexi is such a heartbreaking character. Having a deceased mother and no father, she only finds out that she's a siren on her sixteenth birthday when she accidentally kills the boy she loves. It's so easy to connect with her feelings because the prose is so beautiful and, well, she's just a super sweet girl!

Then there's Cole (insert lots of swooning), who somehow manages to break through her shield to keep everyone out. And Erik, the new boy at school who comes with a way to break the curse... at the price of something Lexi can't bear to give up. It's not like most love triangles out there because there's a huge twist thrown right in the middle that makes you want kick a box!

Hopefully an empty box so it can go farther when you hit it.

Brilliantly written and executed, Ripple is a siren novel that I can bet isn't like any other siren novel out there! I'm glad that this is a standalone novel (since we're in the age of trilogies and hair-pulling cliffhangers), but I wouldn't mind if Mandy Hubbard wrote a sequel! *wink wink nudge nudge* 

BUY or BORROW?: Definitely a buy! Especially if you love novels about sirens, or want to start your collection right now! :)

-Mimi

Waiting on Wednesday: Clockwork Prince

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by the awesome Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is: 

Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare

In the magical underworld of Victorian London, Tessa Gray has at last found safety with the Shadowhunters. But that safety proves fleeting when rogue forces in the Clave plot to see her protector, Charlotte, replaced as head of the Institute. If Charlotte loses her position, Tessa will be out on the street—and easy prey for the mysterious Magister, who wants to use Tessa’s powers for his own dark ends.

With the help of the handsome, self-destructive Will and the fiercely devoted Jem, Tessa discovers that the Magister’s war on the Shadowhunters is deeply personal. He blames them for a long-ago tragedy that shattered his life. To unravel the secrets of the past, the trio journeys from mist-shrouded Yorkshire to a manor house that holds untold horrors, from the slums of London to an enchanted ballroom where Tessa discovers that the truth of her parentage is more sinister than she had imagined. When they encounter a clockwork demon bearing a warning for Will, they realize that the Magister himself knows their every move—and that one of their own has betrayed them.

Tessa finds her heart drawn more and more to Jem, but her longing for Will, despite his dark moods, continues to unsettle her. But something is changing in Will—the wall he has built around himself is crumbling. Could finding the Magister free Will from his secrets and give Tessa the answers about who she is and what she was born to do?

As their dangerous search for the Magister and the truth leads the friends into peril, Tessa learns that when love and lies are mixed, they can corrupt even the purest heart.

(summary taken from Goodreads)

Release Date: December 6, 2011

There are just too many reasons why I want to read this book, but I'll give you three:

1. I love all of Cassie Clare's books, including The Mortal Instruments series, because they're always pure awesomeness!
2. This series is set in Victorian London — need I say more? ;)
3. Will. Will and Jem. Jem and Will. I just love both of these amazing guys so much!

I adored the first book, Clockwork Angel (read my review here), so I just can't wait to get my hands on a copy of Clockwork Prince! :)

WHAT BOOK ARE YOU WAITING FOR?  

  

-Mimi

Review: The Body Finder

Book: The Body Finder
Author: Kimberly Derting
Release Date: March 16, 2010
Publisher: HarperTeen
Pages: 336
Source: KPL
Stars: 4/5

Violet Ambrose is grappling with two major issues: Jay Heaton and her morbid secret ability. While the sixteen-year-old is confused by her new feelings for her best friend since childhood, she is more disturbed by her "power" to sense dead bodies—or at least those that have been murdered. Since she was a little girl, she has felt the echoes that the dead leave behind in the world... and the imprints that attach to their killers.

Violet has never considered her strange talent to be a gift; it mostly just led her to find the dead birds her cat had tired of playing with. But now that a serial killer has begun terrorizing her small town, and the echoes of the local girls he's claimed haunt her daily, she realizes she might be the only person who can stop him.

Despite his fierce protectiveness over her, Jay reluctantly agrees to help Violet on her quest to find the murderer—and Violet is unnerved to find herself hoping that Jay's intentions are much more than friendly. But even as she's falling intensely in love, Violet is getting closer and closer to discovering a killer... and becoming his prey herself.

(summary taken from Goodreads)

MY THOUGHTS: 

A warning before reading this book: you will not be able to put it down until you finish it! I made the mistake of starting before I went to bed, and I ended up reading into the early hours of the next morning. I was too hooked to fall asleep!

Not only was the third-person narrative very well done — which is sometimes hard to do — but the mystery aspect of this novel was captivating. Even though Kimberly Derting wrote some scenes in the creepy mind of the killer, I still stayed on the edge of my seat waiting for them to catch the culprit. And there were definitely twists that I just didn't expect.

The relationship between Jay and Violet was pure awesomeness. It was so easy to see why these two best friends would fall for each other, because Jay made you want to swoon off your feet just so he could catch you, and Violet was the unflinching, brave, and somewhat reckless heroine needed in a mystery story.

A great mix of mystery, suspense, romance, and a completely original ability to sense bodies of those who've been murdered (including animals), The Body Finder was an awesome first book in what I can only guess will be a great series! 

BUY or BORROW?: I borrowed this book, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't go out to the bookstore right now to get it! :)

-Mimi

Review: Haunting Violet

Book: Haunting Violet
Author: Alyxandra Harvey
Release Date: June 21, 2011
Publisher: Walker Childrens
Pages: 352
Source: KPL
Stars: 3.5/5

Violet Willoughby doesn't believe in ghosts. But they believe in her. After spending years participating in her mother's elaborate ruse as a fraudulent medium, Violet is about as skeptical as they come in all matters supernatural. Now that she is being visited by a very persistent ghost, one who suffered a violent death, Violet can no longer ignore her unique ability. She must figure out what this ghost is trying to communicate, and quickly because the killer is still on the loose. 

Afraid of ruining her chance to escape her mother's scheming through an advantageous marriage, Violet must keep her ability secret. The only person who can help her is Colin, a friend she's known since childhood, and whom she has grown to love. He understands the true Violet, but helping her on this path means they might never be together. Can Violet find a way to help this ghost without ruining her own chance at a future free of lies?

(summary taken from Goodreads)

MY THOUGHTS:

First off, let me just say that I love books set in the Victorian era. Everything about the society, the way they dress, and the way people are and aren't supposed to behave always make up an interesting story — and Haunting Violet was no different!

The only thing I really had problems with was the properness of the writing. I know that kind of contradicts with me loving Victorian books, but sometimes how formal they have to speak is a little hard to get into. But other than that, Alyxandra Harvey has such beautiful prose that easily paints a picture of the scene in your head.

One of my favourite parts about this book was Violet. Despite the stiffness of her society, she still managed to bring spunk and humor into the story. She was witty, clever, and exactly the kind of girl that I would love to have as my best friend, especially in a time setting like that! She was a great voice for the novel.

Her own best friends, Elizabeth and Colin (swoon!) were awesome supporting characters, too! I adored both of them, and every scene that they were in always made it a whole lot better. Violet's con artist mother, on the other hand, I absolutely hated in every scene. She wasn't the main villain, but she sure as heck acted like it.

Although a little slow-starting at first, Haunting Violet was a brilliant mixture of ghosts, mystery, and a romance forbidden by society. If you love any of those aspects (or maybe all three!), then you should definitely pick up this book!  

BUY or BORROW?: Whether you buy or borrow this book doesn't matter; you just have to read it! :)

-Mimi

Review: Between Here and Forever

Book: Between Here and Forever
Author: Elizabeth Scott
Release Date: May 24, 2011
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Pages: 250
Source: KPL
Stars: 3/5

Abby accepted that she can’t measure up to her beautiful, magnetic sister Tess a long time ago, and knows exactly what she is: Second best. Invisible.

Until the accident.

Now Tess is in a coma, and Abby’s life is on hold. It may have been hard living with Tess, but it's nothing compared to living without her.

She's got a plan to bring Tess back though, involving the gorgeous and mysterious Eli, but then Abby learns something about Tess, something that was always there, but that she’d never seen.

Abby is about to find out that truth isn't always what you think it is, and that life holds more than she ever thought it could...

(summary taken from Goodreads) 

MY THOUGHTS:  

Between Here and Forever was another book on my long list of contemporary novels to read. And I'm so happy that it was! Even though I'm a bigger fan of the supernatural, I can't help but have a soft spot for sweet stories like this.

Believe it or not, this was the very first Elizabeth Scott novel I've read, but it definitely won't be my last! She has such a beautiful way of writing and creates the most lovable and realistic characters.

I had mixed feelings about Abby. Part of me corresponded with what Eli — who I absolutely adored — said about her being so strong and straightforward and sad. But the other part of me was always frustrated whenever Abby dismissed any compliments and kept thinking of herself as "not Tess." She had no confidence in herself at all. I was ecstatic to finally see a spark in her Anti-Abby parade.

Both heartbreaking and heartwarming, Between Here and Forever was simple yet touching, with a sweet romance between a focused sister and a seemingly perfect guy. A beautiful summer read! 

BUY or BORROW?: If you love original contemporary novels, Between Here and Forever would be a perfect edition to your collection! :) Isn't the cover just gorgeous?

-Mimi

Follow Friday #10

Hi again!

For those who don't know, Follow Friday is a blog hop hosted by the super-duper awesome Parajunkee & Alison Can Read! It's a great way to meet new people and expand your list of friends over Blogger, and it's really easy to join, too! :)

All you have to do is:

1. (Required) Follow the Follow My Book Blog Hosts (Parajunkee & Alison Can Read)
2. (Required) Follow the featured bloggers of the week. (Hands and Home & Me, My Shelf, and I)
3. Put your blog name and URL in the Linky thing. 
4. Grab the the button up there and place it in a post (so people can say hi in the comments!).
5. Follow, follow, follow as many as you can, as many as you want, or just only a few. The whole point is to make new friends and find new blogs! Also, don't just follow, comment and say hi. Another blogger might not know you are a new follower if you don't say "HI!"
6. If someone comments and follows you, share the love! Follow them back ;)
7. If you're new to the Follow Friday hop, comment and let Parajunkee & Alison know, so they can stop by and check out your blog!

Q: Talk about the book that most changed or influenced your life. Was it a book that turned you from an average to avid reader? Did it help you deal with a particularly difficult situation? Does it bring you comfort every time you read it?

A: This is a really hard question to answer because I honestly think that each book I read influences me in some way — big or small. I'm sure it's the same with a bunch of other people! 

But the series that made me stay up several nights in a row thinking about how lucky I was to live in this society instead of a dystopian one was The Hunger Games Trilogy by Suzanne Collins. I just can't get over how amazing it was! Definitely an eye-opening favourite!

What about you? What book(s) really influenced you? :)

HAPPY FOLLOW FRIDAY! 

-Mimi

P.S.: Don't forget to enter my 100 Followers Giveaway if you haven't already! All you have to do is be a follower and it's international! :)

Review: Spellbound

Book: Spellbound 
Author: Cara Lynn Shultz 
Release Date: June 28, 2011 
Publisher: Harlequin Teen 
Pages: 324 
Source: received for review (thank you, Harlequin!!) 
Disclaimer: All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. No amount of payment was given for a positive review.
Stars: 4/5

What's a girl to do when meeting The One means she's cursed to die a horrible death?

Life hasn't been easy on sixteen-year-old Emma Connor, so a new start in New York may be just the change she needs. But the posh Upper East Side prep school she has to attend? Not so much. Friendly faces are few and far between, except for one that she's irresistibly drawn to—Brendan Salinger, the guy with the rock-star good looks and the richest kid in school, who might just be her very own white knight.

But even when Brendan inexplicably turns cold, Emma can't stop staring. Ever since she laid eyes on him, strange things have been happening. Streetlamps go out wherever she walks, and Emma's been having the oddest dreams: visions of herself in past lives—visions that warn her to stay away from Brendan. Or else.

(summary taken from Goodreads)

MY THOUGHTS:  

Spellbound wasn't at all what I expected from the synopsis, but not in a bad way! It was a fun yet serious read, all wrapped into one detailed package that I couldn't stop reading from the moment I opened it up.

With romance as its main focus, the relationship between Emma and Brendan was absolutely adorable. Some of the things he did for her made me want to swoon off my feet! Bad boy sweetheart? I loved him! The fact that they were both such likable characters also helped to make reading this novel so much fun. 

The whole supernatural aspect of this novel wasn't as prominent as I thought it would be, but it was woven into the story perfectly. I'm usually not the biggest fan of love-at-first-sight type scenarios unless executed in a non-cheesy way, but Cara Lynn Shultz managed to explain it well in Spellbound!

Although very predictable at times, the plot was easy to follow and always entertaining. I loved following the things that Emma did because she was such an awesome girl — smart, witty, hilariously fun — and I was rooting for her even when I could tell something bad was going to happen.

As indulging as it was filling, Spellbound was an awesome debut novel by an author that I'm excited to read more from! 

BUY or BORROW?: I wouldn't mind having this book on my shelf! ;)

-Mimi

Waiting on Wednesday: Lola and the Boy Next Door

Waiting On Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by the awesome Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Lola and the Boy Next Door by Stephenie Perkins

Budding designer Lola Nolan doesn’t believe in fashion . . . she believes in costume. The more expressive the outfit -- more sparkly, more fun, more wild -- the better. But even though Lola’s style is outrageous, she’s a devoted daughter and friend with some big plans for the future. And everything is pretty perfect (right down to her hot rocker boyfriend) until the dreaded Bell twins, Calliope and Cricket, return to the neighborhood.

When Cricket -- a gifted inventor -- steps out from his twin sister’s shadow and back into Lola’s life, she must finally reconcile a lifetime of feelings for the boy next door.

(summary taken from Goodreads) 

Release Date: September 29, 2011 

When I picked up the first novel by Stephenie Perkins, Anna and the French Kiss (read my review here), I didn't expect to like it that much — but it ended up being my favourite contemporary novel of the year! I can't wait to read Lola and the Boy Next Door, especially knowing that Anna and St. Clair make cameo appearances!

And the synopsis sounds adorable! Waiting for a book like this is the only time I'll say that I want September to come faster — take that, school! ;)

WHAT BOOK ARE YOU WAITING FOR?  

-Mimi

P.S.: Don't forget to enter my 100 Followers Giveaway if you haven't already! All you have to do is be a follower and it's international! :)

Review: Beautiful Creatures

Book: Beautiful Creatures

Author: Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl

Release Date: December 1, 2009

Publisher: Little, Brown Books

Pages: 563

Source: bought from Chapters

Stars: 3/5

There were no surprises in Gatlin County.
At least, that's what I thought.
Turns out, I couldn't have been more wrong.
There was a curse. There was a girl.
And in then end, there was a grave.

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.

(summary taken from Goodreads)

MY THOUGHTS: 

First off, let me just say that the cover is gorgeous. Beautiful, dark and gothic, it describes the contents of the book perfectly!

I have mixed feelings about Beautiful Creatures, but for the most part, I really like it! Told from sixteen-year-old Ethan Wate's point of view, it's both refreshing and somewhat strange to be in a boy's mind. The coolest part is getting a snippet of how a regular guy thinks when an eccentric new girl moves to town — except that Ethan isn't really a regular guy.

My favourite thing about this book is the atmospheric setting. Kami Garcia and Margaret Stohl describe the rich, gothic environment so perfectly that I want to pack up and move there, even though Ethan is more than ready to move far, far away. Gatlin County exactly the kind of small, dark town that I love to read about.

But it's the characters and plot that make this book. Each and every individual that the authors create is complex, original, and easy to adore... or easy to hate. They all have so many sides that it's effortless to connect with them. And the plot, so deliberately crafted, is something striking on its own.

Although the writing is a little hard to get into at first, Beautiful Creatures is an awesome paranormal debut novel about a girl and a boy and a curse that takes my breath away. I'm definitely going to be reading the next installments of this series.

I'm also really excited that there's going to be a movie! :) 

BUY or BORROW?: Owning this book is far from a bad thing!

-Mimi