Divergent by Veronica Roth

TITLE:  Divergent (Divergent #1)

AUTHOR:  Roth, Veronica

GENRE:  Fiction/Dystopian

DATES READ:  11/25/2012 - 12/3/2012

MY RATING:  3.5/5

I originally found this book in soft cover, and saw that it was recommended for "if you like the Hunger Games".  Now, I thoroughly enjoyed the Hunger Games so I picked it right up.

I really appreciated the plot and the theme of this novel.  However, there were certain elements that I found a little far-fetched.  How can each person be expected to only fit in one certain archetype.  Regardless of the dystopian society, there is bound to be overlap (not just those who are uniquely "Divergent").  Especially if you can change your faction after being raised for years in another.  It just didn't make sense to me, and vaguely reminded me of Harry Potter's "sorting hat".

However, once I suspended my disbelief and took the whole faction idea with a grain, the world was well executed.  It was different than other dystopian worlds I've read about.

Tris is definitely more tough than other YA female characters out there.  But you can't help but roll your eyes a little on how well her story falls into place.  How she happens to be Divergent, and also happens to be able to handle more pain than anyone else in the book (so it seems anyway, to the point of surreal expectations).  Four, I feel, was the most well rounded character in the book (and of course he happens to be the swoony YA romantic interest).  But putting that aside, I felt his character was deeper and more complex than all of the others put together.

I wish that the plot line went a little deeper and further, to bring it to the next level.  I suppose we'll see what happens with the second book in the trilogy (because I'll definitely be buying it).

Will read and write soon!

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Storm Front by Jim Butcher

TITLE:  Storm Front (Dresden Files #1)

AUTHOR:  Butcher, Jim

GENRE:  Fiction/Fantasy

DATES READ:  11/1/2012 - 11/25/2012

MY RATING:  4/5

My brother has been obsessed with the Dresden Files for some time now, and he finally convinced me to start reading the series (at least the first book anyway), while we were camping.

The book moved very slowly from time to time, but I've heard from a lot of Dresden fans, that only the first book does that (as it is establishing the tone and the characters for the rest of the series).  My favorite character was, obviously, Dresden himself.  He was absolutely fabulous, possessing the perfect amount of frankness and mystery.  I told me brother he reminded me of Han Solo mixed with a wizard.  I've already made a mental casting note for him.

I think that Kevin Durand would be perfect, if they ever make a movie!  He's got the height, and the piercing good looks.  Dresden fans, feel free to agree or disagree.  But I found myself picturing him the whole time.

Some of the plot elements were a little predictable.  I found myself knowing when bad things were going to happen (and who they would happen to) a little too early.  However, this was also Jim Butcher's first book, so slack is given until I read the next!

Overall, this book is awesome, and I look forward to the next one.

Will read and write soon!

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A Reliable Wife by Robert Goolrick

TITLE:  A Reliable Wife
AUTHOR:  Goolrick, Robert

GENRE:  Fiction

DATES READ:  10/8/2012 - 10/20/2012

MY RATING:  2/5

This book turned out to be a lot more sexual than I anticipated.  It was extremely depressing, and while the cover mentioned "intoxicating", the majority of it was just plain sad.

The characters were depressing and I understand that Catherine is looking for love with Truitt, but shouldn't the book have at least tried to make you love him too?  Instead he was muted, and almost voyeuristic.

Toward the end, I just found myself wanting for the book to be over.  Really lame.  Then again, this book was a freebie for me, I don't have much to complain about.

The ending was surprising, but I need to start reading something that has more hope and less sex/depression.  I'm sure it has it's place on someone's bookshelf.  I certainly don't think it will stay on mine for long.

Will read and write soon!

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Dearest Apologies

I must apologize more sincerely for my absence, dear readers.  It was has been quite sometime since I've been able to take a moment to breath/write.  I've recently started school, and while I'm thrilled at my prospects, it does not leave much time for my greatest passions - reading.

I hope to sneak in snippets here and there, when I get my much-needed breaks.  I have indeed been reading during my sabbatical.  I will make sure to update with all of the books I have finished - there are many of them (eek!).  I may also change my format due to the length of time I have available to write.

Needless to say... it is a wee bit daunting when combined with schoolwork.  But I've been keeping records of books I have read and wish to read in the hopeful future.  Keep an eye out for my next blog post!  There is a new challenge that I has me intrigued, and I challenge anyone and everyone to do it with me! :-)

Will be reading and writing and reading and writing and reading and writing until the end of eternity...

Easy by Tammara Webber

TITLE:  Easy

AUTHOR:  Webber, Tammara

GENRE:  Fiction/Romance

DATES READ:  9/25/2012 - 10/2/2012

MY RATING:  4.5/5

I have to admit that the overall plot of this novel was fabulous!  Tammara Weber does an amazing job of taking very difficult story matter, and it discussing it in an elegant way.

I will never forget the main male love interest.  He is a fantastic and deep character, whose story and past unfolds before you.  Truly unforgettable.  The main female character was okay, but I felt a bit of a Bella-complex going on there (what makes her so great that everyone is interested in her?).  But I suppose authors have to make female book characters a little muted so that readers can insert themselves and their own qualities.

Overall, I loved the story line, the characters, and the ending!

As a warning to readers:  This book does contain very graphic situations that younger readers may not be able to handle.

Will read and write soon!

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Thicker Than Blood by Shaolini Boland

TITLE:  Thicker Than Blood (Marchwood Vampire #2)

AUTHOR:  Boland, Shaolini

GENRE:  Fiction/Supernatural

DATES READ:  9/15/2012 - 9/23/2012

MY RATING:  3/5

My mom and I both love the Marchwood Vampire series.  The plots for these books are always entwined very well.  Shaolini Boland has a gift for taking several story lines and melding them together.

Maddy and Alex were both wonderful and fallible at the same time.  I feel that Maddy is definitely one of the stronger female book characters I have seen lately, and that's refreshing to see.

I always feel like while there's a little something lacking for me in these books.  But they would make GREAT movies!  You can picture all of the action and locations so vividly (plus they're only $3.99 Nookbooks... you just can't lose!!!).  Definitely worth taking a look if you like supernatural beach reads.

Will read and write soon!

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Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare

TITLE:  Clockwork Prince (Infernal Devices #2)

AUTHOR:  Clare, Cassandra

GENRE:  Fiction/Supernatural
DATES READ:  8/30/2012 - 9/9/2012

MY RATING:  4/5

This is the last Cassandra Clare book I'll read for a while, and it makes me sad!!!  :-(  I love her work.

The plot development and pace in Clockwork Prince was a little slow in comparison to the first novel.  But I have to say, Clare's bare bones writing style is blissfully un-complicated.  She makes the supernatural so believable, you don't question anything.

The setting, as always, is unique and creative.  But it's the characters that always set Cassandra Clares novels apart.  Will and Jem are drastically different but you find yourself loving them both in their own way.  The only part I've found annoying is Tessa in-decisiveness.  It's getting a little old (dare I say... Bella-esque??).  If I have to pick a dreaded team, I would have to say I'm team Will.  And here I was a couple of entries ago complaining about the token angsty bad boy.  What do I know?!

Definitely put this on your to-read list.  Especially if you're a fan of Cassandra Clare's Mortal Instruments series!

Will read and write soon!

***Photo by B. Bumble***

A Cat Abroad by Peter Gethers

TITLE:  A Cat Abroad

AUTHOR:  Gethers, Peters

GENRE:  Non-Fiction/Autobiography
DATES READ:  8/21/2012 - 8/30/2012

MY RATING:  4/5

After reading The Cat Who Went to Paris I was thrilled to continue the "two volumes in one" book.

The plot for A Cat Abroad was not as organized in this book as the last one.  I found that it tended to jump around a little more.  Norton, however, was still as remarkable as ever.  He's truly the main character, and I always want to learn more about him and his hijinx.

At times this book can seem a little high-brow, and can almost make your own life feel a little small.  But back to basics, it's a wonderful book about a bond with a feline.  It just makes me love cats even more.  Worth it for the cat lover!  Dog lovers beware...

Will read and write soon!

The Cat Who Went to Paris by Peter Gethers

TITLE:  The Cat Who Went to Paris

AUTHOR:  Gethers, Peter

GENRE:  Non-Fiction/Autobiography
DATES READ:  8/19/2012 - 8/21/2012

MY RATING:  4.5/5

I love cats.  It is no secret.  My mom bought this for me as a Christmas/Birthday gift a few years ago, and I've been on a "read everything I have on my bookshelf" kick.  This book was next in line, and the cat called into question is a beautiful Scottish fold known as Norton.

As you can see on the cover of my book, this is a "two volumes in one" book, so my next review will be regarding A Cat Abroad.  But for now, on to The Cat Who Went to Paris.

This story is an absolutely must read for cat lovers!  But I should also states, it will only be understood by cat lovers.  Those of us who understand their feline quirks in idiosyncrasies.  Describing the settling of the book seems moot, as they are only unique when the beloved Norton is present.

Norton is altogether the glue that holds this story together, while Gethers takes an autobiography and makes it as delicious as fiction.  He perfectly expresses the unique and subtle (or not so subtle in Norton's case) relationship between man and feline.  This Scottish fold is absolutely unforgettable, just like his story.

Will read and write soon!

***Photo by B. Bumble***

Eona by Alison Goodman

TITLE:  Eona
AUTHOR:  Goodmand, Alison
GENRE:  Fiction/Fantasy
DATES READ:  6/11/2012 - 8/19/2012
MY RATING:  3.5/5

I picked up this book ages ago when I was back in school.  I figured it was time to give it a try.  I finally finished it after two months!  I had to take a break from it because I went on vacation and it was far too big to fit in my carry-on (it's so thick it probably would have put me over the weight limit!).

The plot of this story was so good, just like the first book!  But the pace did drag on for a bit.  I guess that's what happens when the back story is so detailed and the author has so much to say (I know I'm guilty of this as well).

The main character, Eona, made some pretty poor choices and I found it hard to stay on her side sometimes.  But she had such strength and gumption.  It's nice to see that in a female book character.

The one crux for me, is that I feel there were some unrealistic expectations of love, with so many untruths being thrown around.  Altogether it was a great read!

Will read and write soon!

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hush, hush by Becca Fitzpatrick

TITLE:  hush, hush

AUTHOR:  Fitzpatrick, Becca

GENRE:  Fiction/Fantasy
DATES READ:  8/14/2012 - 8/14/2012

MY RATING:  2.5/5

Someone hid this book behind a bunch of others at the bookstore.  I am overjoyed when something like this happens to me because I feel like I've discovered a treasure (or something someone never wants anyone to find... you be the judge).

So to begin with, the plot was slightly confusing, as most YA novels can be.  The main character, Nora, proved to be rather milktoast, and severely lacking in gumption (something I pride in female main character).  That was sorely disappointing, but I'm not expecting miracles.  I find myself searching for strong female characters whenever I read, and hush, hush certainly did not deliver.  It did exactly the opposite by making the character accepting, swooning, and understanding in a borderline abusive relationship.

Patch (the token YA swoony object of Nora's affections) was the typical bad boy harboring deep dark secrets, which for some reason makes him even more appealing.  But I digress...  There is something (and goodness knows what that something is) entertaining about their romance, as well as the plot, which definitely merits at least a 2.5/5 review.

However, I have to agree with the majority of reader's reviews.  Patch was a bit of a jerk, and Nora just blindly accepted his behavior.  I understand the whole bad boy appeal - really I do.  But let's be realistic ladies and gents... if a guy/girl talked to us like that upon first meeting (really?!) he or she would be out the door.

However, if you're interested in a swoon-filled, angsty YA book, this is choice.  Who am I kidding?  I obviously read it in less than a day.  There is a place for it in the world, and apparently it shall rest of my bookshelf as well.

Will read and write soon!

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Shadow of Night by Deborah Harkness

TITLE:  Shadow of Night (All Souls #2)
AUTHOR:  Harkness, Deborah
GENRE:  Fiction/Fantasy
DATES READ:  7/15/2012 - 8/14/2012
MY RATING:  4/5

So this is my first attempt at updating my blog entry format.  It needs to be more efficient (aka ONE entry per book), due to my schedule (bear with me through the transition).

My boyfriend bought me Shadow of Night right before I left for graduate school, and I considered it my last real pleasure-reading book for the next 2 years.  Obviously that has turned out NOT to be the case, but that's what I thought at the time.

In comparison to the first book in the series, A Discovery of Witches, the plot continued to be very lush and detailed.  Diana and Matthew's characters remain unspoiled as Harkness delves even deeper into their personae.  You will find yourself loving them even more.  Harkness manages to keep all of her facts straight despite the numerous Forrest Gump-esque weaving of historical fiction/fact.  It was quite lovely.

I always feel as though I've been swept away while reading her work.  It is a great joy and should be read by many.

***Photo by B. Bumble***

Darkly Dreaming Dexter by Jeff Lindsay

TITLE:  Darkly Dreaming Dexter
AUTHOR:  Lindsay, Jeff
GENRE:  Fiction/Crime
DATES READ:  7/3/2012 -  7/5/2012
MY RATING:  4/5

This book was so much fun to read.  What a thriller!  The idea for this novel/series is so unique and really breaks the mold on the Crime genre.

The character of Dexter is so novel and surprisingly endearing... for a serial killer.  He is peculiar, curious, and charming.  Even with his lack of emotion, he has so much depth and personality.  And what a strange experience, to be reading from the point of view of a killer.

Jeff Linsday truly took a sick and twisted character and made his trustworthy.  You'll be slightly frightened to find your inner Dark Passenger chanting "Go, Dexter, go!".  No wonder the casting director chose Michael C. Hall to play him.  What a fantastic choice!

I cannot wait to read the next book as well as start the Showtime series.

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The Cabin in the Woods by Tim Lebbon

TITLE:  The Cabin in the Woods
AUTHOR:  Lebbon, Tim
GENRE:  Fiction/Horror
DATES READ:  7/1/2012 - 7/3/2012
MY RATING:  2/5

The plot of this book was definitely unique but the twist at the end of it was really far-fetched.  I figured with all of the set-up throughout the novel, that it would make a little more sense.  The ending was definitely milk toast and difficult to believe.

All of the main characters were one-note but I suppose it's a horror novel/film.  You shouldn't really care about character development when they're meant to die.

Toward the end of the story, it got really confusing.  When I began reading, I really liked the plot and pace.  But it's all about the execution of the storytelling (pardon the pun!), and it was really muttled.  Good idea overall, but absolutely over-explained.  Kind of like this blog entry...

I'm sure it was a great horror flick.  But I think I'll pass until I forget the ending.

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Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe by Fannie Flagg

TITLE:  Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe
AUTHOR:  Flagg, Fannie
GENRE:  Fiction
DATES READ:  6/30/2012 - TBD
MY RATING:  ?/5

Started this book on the plane in the Bahamas, and I'm about halfway through.  It was really good and old timey so far.  A man at the pool stopped me, and said he named his boat after Towanda.

I vow to eventually finish this book, but for now... the bookmark shall remain in its place.

***Photo by B. Bumble***

Bahamian Break!

I am leaving on a jet plane tomorrow for, you guessed it... the Bahamas!!!  I absolutely cannot wait.

Due to the size of my current book, Eona by Alison Goodman (which is a hard cover), I will be taking a temporary hiatus.  I'm halfway through and it is a wonderful book so far.  However, I am bringing four paperbacks with me (easier to get wet and read on the beach with), and I will absolutely update when I return to the States.

Will read, sunbathe, drink daiquiris, and write soon!

Entwined by Heather Dixon

TITLE:  Entwined
AUTHOR:  Dixon, Heather
GENRE:  Fiction/Fantasy
DATES READ:  5/27/2012 - 6/11/2012
MY RATING:  2.5/5

The idea of embellishing The Twelve Dancing Princesses made me very happy.  However, within the execution, there were several things that disappointed me about this book.

The characters were all very "one-note" with extremely little character development.  The tense was awkward at times.  In fact, the majority of the story could be written from Azalea's point of view (there was plenty of her inner dialogue present anyway).

The book was also very repetitive.  Over and over again describing about the "nail marks in palms", the King "sucking in his cheeks" when he's upset, or Bramble's "piercing green eyes".  For Pete's sake... if it isn't pivotal to the story line, there's no need for the repetition.

Overall, it was a charming alternative view of the story, but there were some key developmental point that I found irritating.  Just my opinion.  But then again... it is my blog!

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City of Lost Souls by Cassandra Clare

TITLE:  City of Lost Souls (Mortal Instruments #5)
AUTHOR:  Clare, Cassandra
GENRE:  Fiction/Supernatural
DATES READ:  5/15/2012 - 5/27/2012
MY RATING:  4.5/5

This book was everything I love about the Mortal Instruments series and more!  I adore these books.  I just can't believe that the next installment isn't supposed to come out until March 2014.  I'm going to be out of graduate school by then (and I haven't even started yet!!!).

I finished City of Lost Souls while camping with my family.  It was the perfect mixture of action, romance, and suspense.  Cassandra Clare constantly keeps you guessing about her characters and this series has a little something for everyone!

I can't recommend it enough for anyone.  I am now in the process of passing them along to my family and friends.  I hope that they'll enjoy them just as much as I do.  The only thing that could be improved is the release date of the next book.  But if you can't already tell, I'm a little biased.  :-)

***Photo by B. Bumble***

Shipbreaker by Paolo Bacigalupi

TITLE:  Ship Breaker
AUTHOR:  Bacigalupi, Paolo
GENRE:  Science Fiction
DATES READ:  4/29/2012 - 5/15/2012
MY RATING:  3/5

I purchased this book on the way out of B&N with my boyfriend because the metallic cover caught my attention.   They were alongside books with a sign that stated "If you like The Mortal Instruments series..."  which I love!!!  So I decided to pick it up...

...I enjoyed this book immensely, but I must admit that I actually like the cover more than I like the book.  I think that's the first time that's ever happened to me.  The author has a wonderful style and I can understand why this book was such an award winner.  I guess it just didn't stand out for me.

Toward the end of this story I got a little restless.  However, I have to give the author credit for being able to take such a futuristic world and make it believable.  While it was easy to read and easy to enjoy, something was missing for me (maybe the pace threw me off?).  I just wasn't my proverbial cup of tea.

I feel that this is a good young adult intro into science fiction, and would definitely recommend it for teens.  Not really enough substance for an older audience.

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The Weird Sisters by Eleanor Brown

TITLE:  The Weird Sisters
AUTHOR:  Brown, Eleanor
GENRE:  Fiction
DATES READ:  4/6/2012 - 4/22/2012
MY RATING:  4/5

The plot development for this novel was slightly slow.  However, the third person inner dialogue was fascinating!  This book showcases the complications of sisterhood beautifully.  Even though I don't have a sister of my own, this book helped me to experience the ins and outs, ups and downs.

I loved the setting of a small town (much like where I grew up).  I also enjoyed the flashback elements.  This book drives home how our childhood experiences shape who we become as adults.  With the Shakespearean quotes, and charming descriptive passages, this novel is truly a gem.  One of my favorite quotes is as follows (Brown, Eleanor; The Weird Sisters; pg. 78):

"Because despite his money and his looks and all the good-on-paper attributes he possessed, he was not a reader, and, well, let's just say that is the sort of nonsense up with which we will not put."

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Dead of Night: A Zombie Novel by Jonathan Maberry

TITLE:  Dead of Night: A Zombie Novel
AUTHOR:  Maberry, Jonathan
GENRE:  Horror/Thriller
DATES READ:  3/24/2012 - 4/6/2012
MY RATING:  3/5

Anyway...  seeing as The Walking Dead is on hiatus until this fall (::sob::), I'm feeling some major zombie withdrawal (as you can tell from my last book choice as well!).  I decided on another work of zombie fiction.  However, instead of a comedic science fiction, Dead of Night:  A Zombie Novel is more of a horror/thriller...

...I recently finished Dead of Night:  A Zombie Novel, and the story line was fantastic.  I really appreciated the spin the author put on a possible zombie apocalypse.  It was interesting as well as believable.  Having majored in Biology, I truly enjoyed the process of the disease spread.  Also, it was one hell of a ride.  Anyone who loves zombie stories would love this novel.

Some of the characters were slightly far-fetched, but the dialogue was enjoyable.  While the characters may not be believable, I could picture them clearly and they all had great presence.

If I were to give the plot and characters a rating, it would definitely be a 4/5.  The only reason I gave the novel a 3/5 was due to an author's worst nightmare (besides writer's block).  Typos.  Typos are a particular pet peeve of mine.  Just throughout my read, I noted at least 4 typos.  It was definitely distracting and I was constantly waiting for the next one.  However, that was my main gripe.

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City of the Lost by Stephen Blackmoore

TITLE:  City of the Lost
AUTHOR:  Blackmoore, Stephen
GENRE:  Science Fiction
DATES READ:  3/16/2012 - 3/23/2012
MY RATING:  5/5

I decided to go a little more out of my comfort zone in the bookstore, and wandered into the "Science Fiction" section.  The cover immediately caught my attention.  I mean the guy has smoke from his cigarette coming out from his gaping wound!  HELLO?!  How could I not buy it?  Anyway, "Joe Sunday's dead - he just hasn't stopped moving yet."...

...I rarely give a book a full on 5/5, but this book was just such a blast to read!!!  I mean zombies, demons, witches, and hit-men.  How can you beat that?!  It was completely different from anything else I've ever read.

Set in Los Angeles, it was a rip-roaring ride of blood, guts, and guile.  It was interesting to walk in the shoes of undead thug Joe Sunday.  His frank point of view, and fantastic inner dialogue makes this book a worthy choice for anyone.  This is a short read, so make sure you have another book on hand if you read fast (about 200 pages).

Definitely pick this one up from the SciFi section.  Just a warning though... very explicit language at times.  Worth the expletives in my opinion.

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The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks

TITLE:  The Lucky One
AUTHOR:  Sparks, Nicholas
GENRE: Fiction
DATES READ:  3/11/2012 - 3/15/2012
MY RATING:  3/5

My boyfriend and I recently went out to see a movie, Act of Valor.  In the beginning, a preview came on for the movie The Lucky One which based upon this novel by Nicholas Sparks.  I immediately liked the story line.  I only wish I had heard about the book before I saw the images (now I won't be able to help thinking about the characters they cast).  Therefore, I will try to picture my own versions of the characters while reading.  Hopefully it's as good as it looks...

...So, I actually finished The Lucky One pretty quickly considering I've only been reading it before work, and during lunch breaks.  This was a very heartwarming story (as to be expected from dear Mr. Sparks).  Nana was my favorite part of the whole book, with her zany sayings and frank point of view.

However, I have to say that - as a whole - all of the characters seem mighty detached and muted.  Not my favorite for a Nicholas Sparks book.  There was also something within The Lucky One that I found extremely different from his other novels.  The line between good guy and bad guy was clearly drawn.  Sparks doesn't even give you a chance to like Beth's ex-husband.  The line between good and evil is definite, which is rarely true in real life.

Anyway, it was an entertaining tale.  DON'T look at the previews or else you WILL picture the actors.  No matter how hard I tried, I just could not make my own mental image (descriptions of Thibault with long hair withstanding).  Definitely pick it up.

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Outlander by Diana Gabaldon

TITLE:  Outlander
AUTHOR:  Gabaldon, Diana
GENRE:  Fiction/Historical Fantasy
DATES READ:  2/7/2012 - 3/11/2012
MY RATING:  4.5/5

I picked this book up while out with my boyfriend.  The back of the book's description made it seem like a thrilling story.  However, the mixed reviews I have seen make it appear to be either a fabulous historical adventure or a pure romance novel (telling tales of "gripping sex scenes").  Now... I make a point to avoid the romance section.  I don't have anything against them, but I prefer stories with more substance to them than pointless "romping" about...

...I have finally chosen a side with my opinions of this book (even though it took me over a month).  However, throughout this month of reading, I have decided on the pro-Outlander side of things.  I do agree that while there were moments when the sexual encounters seemed to hinder plot progression, they were done tastefully and were nowhere near as extreme as some of the reviews lead me to believe.

I loved the characters of Outlander and the plot was absolutely fabulous.  I can see why these books have become such a hit.  Any fans of historical fiction, adventure, and even a little romance, will devour this book!  I have to admit... that I already purchased the second book Dragonfly in Amber in hopes of continuing this series.  However, I will take a break before pursuing (the first book was 850 pages!) seeing as this series will be quite an endeavor.

***Photo by B. Bumble***

The Cat's Table by Michael Ondaatje

TITLE:  The Cat's Table
AUTHOR:  Ondaatje, Michael
GENRE:  Autobiography
DATES READ:  1/28/2012 - 2/7/2012
MY RATING:  3/5

This book was given to me as a Christmas gift in 2011.  Whenever I receive a gift shaped like a book (there's nothing better!) I become extremely happy.  I unwrapped this one, and immediately began to peek inside...

...I have to admit, this book was a little strange once I began to read it.  It is not advertised as an autobiography.  It appears to be a fictional memoir.  However, the more one reads it, one begins to realize it is indeed an autobiography of a young boy's coming-of-age.


Upon finishing it, I have to say that there were a lot of messages that I took away from this book.  It was not glamorous or wildly detailed.  It brought home that fact that one's childhood is often comprised of snapshots.  These snapshots form vague conclusions ruled by sensory experiences and emotions.  Overall, this was a fair coming-of-age tale.

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The Child Thief by Brom

TITLE:  The Child Thief

AUTHOR:  Brom

GENRE:  Fiction/Fantasy
DATES READ:  1/22/2012 - TBD

MY RATING:  ?/5

This book was given to me by my soon-to-be sister-in-law as a birthday gift.  I have always loved the classic tale of Peter and Wendy by J.M. Barrie.  I cannot wait to see this alternative story turn the children's story on its head.  It looks much darker...

...I realize that I have not been updating as much as I usually do.  But that doesn't mean I haven't been reading!  :-)

As of January 28, 2012, I was only about a chapter into this book.  It was extremely dark and was creeping me out.  Normally I wouldn't mind this within a book.  However, I just started a new job, and it's a little heavy to handle while learning something new.  Hopefully, I will find the strength to pick it up once more.

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A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness

TITLE:  A Discovery of Witches (All Souls Trilogy)
AUTHOR:  Harkness, Deborah
GENRE:  Fiction/Fantasy
DATES READ: 12/29/2011 - 1/22/2012
MY RATING:  4.5/5

This book was a surprise birthday gift from my best friend (thank you!).  I'm extremely excited to read it, and anyone who has looked at the back of it understands why.  I've always been interested in books about witches, and I've heard many a good thing about this book.

It took me quite a long time to read this book, but not because I couldn't get into it or because it was boring and slow.  In fact, I discovered that in all aspects it is quite the contrary.  A Discovery of Witches is vibrant, thick, and full of lush description.  I feel as though I've lived through several lifetimes within its pages.


I realize it took me almost a full month to finish it but I do not regret my pace at all.  It only gave me that much more time to enjoy it fully.  It was rich with history, depth, and fabulously detailed characters.

Diana was wonderful, and it was delightfully refreshing to read from her point of view.  She truly represents her namesake, the hunter goddess.  She is a powerful female presence with gumption, and a mind of her own.  I cannot wait for the sequel!

***Photo by B. Bumble***

City of Lost Souls: Cover Reveal!

I am so behind the times!  And to call myself a fan... I've been very busy lately clearly.  Or else I would have posted that the cover has been revealed for City of Lost Souls by Cassandra Clare much earlier!!!  If you have not seen it yet, you should look it up!

I cannot even begin to explain how thrilling this is.  I have to admit that neither Jace or Clary look exactly like I expected them too, but the cover is beautiful nonetheless.  I wish there were more updates to give on the Mortal Instruments movie production.  But I haven't seen anything as of yet.

I'm still fervently reading A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness.  It's a lovely story, and I'm trying to take my time with it (I'm enjoying it immensely!).

Will read and write soon!