"Books can be dangerous. The best ones should be labelled 'This could change your life'."
-Helen Exley

"A novel is the chance to try on a different life for size."
-Marion C. Garretty

Saturday, August 27, 2011

100 Followers!


Oh my goodness, I have reached 100 followers! I never imagined this would happen, and in only a few months! I just want to say you guys are all amazing and I hope you all enjoy my blog! :D


Now, I really wanted to host a giveaway of some pretty amazing books I have, but... parental rule ruled against it. ): These are the prices I pay for being a teenager. So, I'm sorry I can't giveaway anything and you all deserve it. You guys are just awesome and I want you to know how much I love you! (: 


So, I guess I want to say thanks for just being so awesome! 


And, I do have to current giveaways happening RIGHT NOW! So, there is still a chance for you to win some pretty cool books. I also want to give you all the chance for an input on my blog. So, I have some questions for you!

  • What is one thing I can improve about the design of my blog?
  • What is one thing you want to see more of here at Magic Is In Words?
  • How can I improve my reviews to keep you interested in reading?
If you have an answer to one, two, or all of these questions, just comment! I love the comments, they make my day, and I hope you all are enjoying Magic Is In Words!


Lipstick Apology

Lipstick Apology by Jennifer Jabaley

Pages: 321
FOUR LITTLE WORDS WRITTEN IN LIPSTICK mean Emily must say goodbye to everything she knows.
One minute, Emily Carson is dancing on her kitchen counter at an end-of-school party. The next, she's staring at the news, witnessing the wreckage of a plane crash--the plane her parents were on. Her mother's last words are scrawled in lipstick on a tray table: EMILY PLEASE FORGIVE ME. 
Now it's fall in New York City, and Emily is desperate to leave the tragedy behind. It helps that Darlington High's swim team champion has his irresistible green eyes on her. And then there's her quirky chemistry partner slash baker-by-night, Anthony, with his classroom jests, delicious frosted donuts and firm just-friends status.
But Emily is still haunted by her mother's mysterious apology. She must find out what it means. Only then can she choose between the two boys in her life: the one who makes her forget, or the one who helps her remember, and ultimately, heal.
Sometimes goodbye is just the beginning.

This book is a few years old, so I haven't read much about it, but when I saw it in B&N I had to pick it up. I have a fear of flying, and my dad is a pilot so he doesn't understand. I didn't think that aspect of this book would be good for me, but I had to keep reading anyways.

I wasn't grabbed by this book. Yes, I enjoyed the story-line, and the characters were fantastic (especially Trent, he had me laughing-out-loud). But the book seemed to move really slow until about page 200. Which for me, is too far into the book.

Even though the reading was slow, I had to keep reading. I had to find out what the apology was about, and I was really caught up in the characters. There are a couple different messages being tackled in this book: beauty is only skin-deep, "If you walk around thinking you aren't worthy of love and respect you won't get it, true love conquers all, sometimes the best boy is the shy kid in the corner, but I guess it is mostly just about loving and accepting yourself for who are. And that is just the best message I can receive from a book.

Overall, the book was slow to get through (it took me about a week... until today where I read 150 pages) but what was inside the book was just amazing. It is heart warming and the book just left me happy. I was happy.

Overall Rating: 3 Stars
Cover Love: 4 Stars

In my Mailbox 15




In My Mailbox is hosted by The Story Siren to showcase new books we have received this week. This week I bought one amazing book that I just loved! The Power of Six by Pittacus Lore.


You can read my review --> here!

What did you get in your mailbox this week?


Don't forget to stop by my two giveaways!

Thursday, August 25, 2011

Follow Friday 16


Follow My Book Blog Friday is hosted by Parajunkee's View. This week's question is:

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. Which mythical creature do you wish would come out of the closet for real?


My Answer: I would love for the Lorics to come out from planet Lorien like John from I Am Number Four, and The Power of Six. I just love them! I would not want to Mogadorians to follow, or the krauls. Chimaera would be okay though, especially cute beagles like Bernie Kosar!

What mythical creature do you wish would come out of the closet for real?
Comment & Follow and I'll follow back!
Also, check out my two giveaways happening RIGHT NOW!

BTT: History


Booking Through Thursday is a weekly bookish meme. This week's question is:

Am I REALLY the only person who feels this way? When is the last time you read a history book? Historical biography? You know, something that took place in the past but was REAL.

My Answer: I love history, but I don't normally read nonfiction books. But, I do love Historical Fiction. I read Between Shades of Gray, and it was amazing! That's probably the last historical fiction book I read, and if you've never read it, then you really should!







Author Interview & Giveaway!

Author: Rose Pressey
Books: How to Date a Wereworlf (Rylie Cruz Series #1), How to Date a Vampire (Rylie Cruz Series #2), Me and My Ghoulfriends (Larue Donavan Series #1), Rock and Roll is UndeadNo Shoes, No Shirt, No Spells (Mystic Cafe series #1)


All of the characters in your book No Shoes, No Shirt, No Spells are very unique-- especially Elly's. Where did you get inspiration for her personality?
It’s hard to say where Elly’s personality came from. She popped into my head one day and she was like a real person to me. Her wants, desires, fears, and quirks. I put myself in her shoes when I write and ask myself what would I do if in her situation.
There are TONS of different potions and spells in the secret book in the cafe. If you could cast a spell on someone close to you, who would it be, what spell, and why?
The Mystic Magic book is full of spells. If I could pick one, I’d want one for good health for my family. Whether it’s little aches and pains or something much worse.
Summer is almost over, but what is in your summer reading pile?

My reading pile is huge. I doubt I’ll ever catch up. I’ve read all of HP Mallory’s books and I’m looking forward to her new one.  I bought The Sixes by Kate White and I can’t wait to read it.


If you could describe No Shoes, No Shirt, No Spells in just five words, what would they be?
When good spells go bad.
No Shoes, No Shirt, No Spells is the first book in the Mystic Cafe series. Can you give us a preview of what is to come?
Mystic Café is the setting again of course. Most of the same characters return with a couple of new ones. Elly will learn more about the magic and The National Organization of Magic.

* * *

Now, I also have an awesome giveaway for one lucky winner! Rose Pressey is giving away one copy of No Shoes, No Shirt, No Spells to one winner. Just fill out the form below!

The Power of Six

The Power of Six by Pittacus Lore

Pages: 406
I'VE SEEN HIM ON THE NEWS. Followed the stories about what happened in Ohio. John Smith, out there, on the run. To the world, he's a mystery. But to me . . . he's one of us.
Nine of us came here, but sometimes I wonder if time has changed us -- if we all still believe in our mission. How can I know? There are six of us left. We're hiding, blending in, avoiding contact with one another . . . but our Legacies are developing, and soon we'll be equipped to fight. Is John Number Four, and is his appearance the sign I've been waiting for? And what about Number Five and Six? Could one of them be the raven-haired girl with the stormy eyes from my dreams? The girl with powers that are beyond anything I could  ever imagine? The girl who may be strong enough to bring the six of us together?
They caught Number One in Malaysia.
Number Two in England. 
And Number Three in Kenya.
They tried to catch Number Four in Ohio -- and failed.
I am Number Seven. One of six still alive.
And I'm ready to fight.

... I am speechless. Just mere minutes after finishing this book, and I have nothing to say. Well, actually I have a lot on my mind, I just can't get over how totally amazing this book was! If you haven't read I Am Number Four, then go out and get it. And you might as well pick up The Power of Six while you're at it.

Let me just say, Six is a beast. She is like my all-time favorite heroine ever! She is strong and brave and has her head screwed on right, unlike John in this book. She is just kick ass awesome.

I loved near the end when Sam and John break into the Mogadorians' cave. It is just the action and all the fighting I know Lore is capable of giving, and I loved it. I just ate it up, and now I'm very satisfied with the turn out of the book.

Overall I am just psyched to have read this book, and I just have to say, if you haven't read it, GO GET IT!

Overall Rating: 4.5 Stars

Monday, August 22, 2011

Mimi Valentine's 100 Follower Giveaway

Mimi Valentine is hosting a 100 Follower Giveaway! Yes, it is international, yay! 
One lucky winner will get to choose one of these awesome books!



Stop on over and enter this contest! There's only a few days left!


Sunday, August 21, 2011

Juliet Immortal

Juliet Immortal by Stacey Jay

Pages: 306
THE GREATEST LOVE STORY EVER TOLD IS A LIE.
Juliet Capulet didn't take her own life. She was murdered by the person she trusted most, her new husband, Romeo Montague, who made the sacrifice to ensure his own immortality. But Romeo didn't anticipate that Juliet would be granted eternal life as well, and would become an agent for the Ambassadors of Light. 
For seven hundred years, Juliet has struggled to preserve romantic love and the lives of the innocent, while Romeo has fought for the dark side, seeking to destroy the human heart. Until now.
Now Juliet has found her own forbidden love, and Romeo, O Romeo, will do everything in his power to destroy their happiness.
Secrets unfold and surprises abound in Stacey Jay's powerfully dark romance, which reunites literature's most tragic couple.

Okay, I know I don't normally talk about the covers of books, but I feel I have to this time. THIS IS THE MOST BEAUTIFUL COVER I'VE EVER SEEN. I'm not lying. Look at it!

Okay, now that I've gotten that off my chest, let me just say this: Juliet Immortal was not the book I expected it to be. This is hard to explain, so I'll do my best. (If you can't understand what I'm rambling about when you're done, just read the book.)

From the description, I thought Juliet was going to fall in love and Romeo was going to try to break them up. And when Jay first introduces Romeo, I realized there was something much more going on. I mean, he tries to kill her! But then, Romeo tries to make Juliet fall in love with him. I got such mixed signals from Romeo that I never connected to his character. I felt as if he almost had like two personalities.
As I kept reading, I realized that Juliet is here to help two OTHER people fall in love, and she herself is not supposed to fall in love. As I kept reading, more differences popped out at me, and I realized I had the wrong idea about this book.

I have to say, I loved Juliet's character. She is so strong and full of love, but also hate (which can only be expected with her past) and.. I don't know. I was just so drawn into the story by her. I can't even explain it. I also loved Ben's character. He had no idea why Juliet (Ariel) was being so stubborn, but he still loved her and poured out his heart to her. Which was just amazing! I can't wait for that to happen to me (:

Overall I was pleased with this book. It had its ups and downs, but I enjoyed it. The ending was such a shock. I had no idea it what was going to happen the whole time I was reading, and I have to say "Bravo" to Jay. It was brilliant! I guess I have mixed feelings about the whole book overall, but I did really enjoy reading it, and so should you!

Overall Rating: 3.5 Stars

Saturday, August 20, 2011

In My Mailbox (14)


In My Mailbox is hosted by The Story Siren to showcase books that we have received this week through bookstores, libraries, or from authors/publishers.

This week I bought one book that I'm really excited about:
Juliet Immortal by Stacey Jay (Isn't this cover beautiful?!?!)

I was also given the chance to giveaway three copies of the amazing book Other People's Heroes by Blake M. Petit right here on Magic Is In Words! So, scroll to the top of the sidebar and click on the picture of Other People's Heroes for an author interview, a sneak peak of his upcoming sequel, and the giveaway!

Other People's Heroes by Blake M. Petit

What did you get in your mailbox this week?

Thursday, August 18, 2011

Follow Friday 15


Follow My Book Blog Friday is hosted by Parajunkee's View & Allison Can Read. This week's question is:

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?


If I could be a character in a book, I would love to be a girl that is free-spirited and a dare-devil. I'd love to be a girl that bunjee-jumps and sky dives, rides the tallest roller-coasters, and just isn't afraid to do do anything! In real life, I'm afraid of heights, so those things are out of the question! I'd also love to be in Greece (: 

What's your Follow Friday? Follow, comment, and leave a blog address! Also, stop by my giveaway of Other People's Heroes!

Author Interview/Giveaway!

Author Interview: Blake Petit
Book: Other People's Heroes
Check out his website: www.EvertimeRealms.com



Josh loves superheroes, he always has. He even likes to dress up and try to fight crime! Do you ever try to fight crime like Josh?

Heh -- no, I don't think the sight of an English teacher in his 30s prancing around in tights would exactly make the criminal element tremble in their boots. Not even if I was quoting Shakespeare while I did it. It's funny, in the last few years you hear more and more stories about "real life superheroes" cropping up in different cities across America, and I actually admire those people quite a lot. They've got way more courage than I do. I'm better off sitting behind a keyboard, dictating the actions of heroes from a distance.

There are quite a few superheroes (and villains) in this book. Where did you get the idea for all of their powers? 

I've been reading comic books since I was eight years old, so coming up with the powers was the easy part. Most of the power types are based on your standard superhero templates -- the strong guy, the fast guy, the stretchy guy, and so on. What I tried to do was create fully-realized characters who happened to have superpowers, then come up with unique, original ways for the powers to be used. For example, in the scenes where Josh has speed powers he uses them to "melt" stone and to pull off a pretty spectacular rescue, things that I don't recall ever seeing in a comic before. I don't know how if any of the physics behind his stunts would stand up to scrutiny by a real scientist, someone who knows what he's talking about, but I maintain they make as much sense as getting the power to stick to walls from a radioactive spider bite.

If you could be any of the superheroes in this book, who would you be and why? Also, which villain would you be and why?

You know, in a lot of ways, I put myself in Josh -- the self-deprecation, the awkwardness, the way he gets tongue-tied. He's me if I had the guts to overcome that stuff. If it was a wish fulfillment sort of thing, it'd have to be Lionheart. He's the pinnacle of this world's heroes -- the strongest, the bravest, the most respected... who wouldn't want that? As for which villain... that's tougher. The villains in this book aren't really what they appear to be, and if I picked one of the real villains... well, that would give away some of the best surprises, wouldn't it?


If you could describe Josh in three words, what would they be?

Goofy, insecure, brave.


Are you working on a sequel? If so, can you give us a preview? 

As a matter of fact, I recently finished the second draft of the sequel, 14 Days of Asphalt. I'm hoping that will be available some time in 2012. In this one, Josh takes a road trip, makes some new friends, and will learn a lot more about the true nature of super powers in his universe. But if you don't want to wait that long to check in with Josh and the crew, I've also written a Halloween-themed short story, The Restless Dead of Siegel City. That'll be available as a 99-cent "Kindle Single" in October!

As for a preview, how about the first scene of 14 Days to whet your appetite?

Yay!


1: GENTLEMEN, START YOUR ENGINES

I was busy with a fake robbery when my girlfriend called to tell me she was staying in California. This wasn’t unusual for me – fake robberies, fake plane crashes, fake alien invasions, that kind of stuff was what I did on a daily basis. I never carried my phone with me when I was in costume either, because (let’s face it) being a superhero is a rough job. Even in Siegel City, where fights are planned ahead of time and every punch is meticulously choreographed, accidents happen. People can get hurt. Things like “explosions” or “spontaneous bursts of microwave emissions” tend to “void” “warranties” and make me “lose” my entire “Weird Al playlist.” So at the same time I was crashing through the skylight of the Eisner Musem of Art, back at Simon Tower my phone was buzzing away in my empty apartment.
My phone rang at about 5:30 in the morning with the message that the Pieces of Eight were robbing the Siegel City Coin Collector’s show, and only the hero known as Copycat could stop them. It didn’t matter at all that the hero known as Copycat would rather be sleeping at that ungodly hour. I rolled out of bed and pulled on my uniform as fast as I could – black pants and a black, military-cut coat, gray boots, a gray cape and a gray mask. On my chest was a red-and-black medallion with the embossed image of a proud lion. The whole uniform was a take on that of a man named Lionheart. At first I had been reluctant to wear even a variation on his uniform, but now I looked upon it as an homage – my way of making sure he remained in the public consciousness. People seemed to forget the important things in the world far too easily sometimes.
I considered, for a moment, putting on the trench coat that hung next to my uniform in the closet. I started wearing it originally to cover up a minor weight problem I’d had a while back, but six months of living in Simon Tower with dozens of super-efficient metabolisms in proximity, I was currently in the best shape of my life.
I put the coat down – it wasn’t that cold, even in January, and any time a Cape made even the smallest modification in his uniform it started the tabloids buzzing. Was he hiding something? Was it a new person under the mask? What he trying out a new “grim and gritty” image? Bah. Wasn’t worth it. I left the coat behind and was nearly out the door when the phone rang. It was Annie’s ringtone, and it seemed odd to me that she would call so early, but I was already running late. I loved her, but I also knew that when she got on a roll it could take me a half-hour to get off the phone, and I didn’t have that kind of time. With her powers, I decided, it couldn’t be anything life-threatening, and anything else could wait a couple of hours. That decision did nothing to add to my lifetime total of being right about exactly three important things. I’d lost count of how many times I’d been wrong, but as I rushed off to do battle with the Pieces of Eight, that total increased by one.

Now for some more fun! I'm hosting my first giveaway, and I'm giving away an EBook Copy of Other People's Heroes to three lucky winners! Here are the rules:

  • You must be 13 or older to enter
  • One entry per person

Review: Other People's Heroes


Other People's Heroes by Blake M. Petit

E-Book
Josh Corwood has spent his life admiring the superheroes that protect Siegel City. He's wanted to join them, wanted to be like them... but eventually, had to settle for reporting on them from the sidelines. When an undiscovered talent reignites his hope to join the world's protectors, he suddenly discovers that their world isn't everything he'd been led to believe. Surrounded by false idols, Josh decides to turn the tables on them and reveal the greatest con game in history... and hopefully, in the process, find the real heroes that have long been gone.

For me, this book took a little time to get into. It was a little slow at first and I wasn't sure if I was going to like it, but about a fourth of the way through the book things started to heat up! Once I got through the begining, I couldn't put this book down.

Josh Corwood was a peculiar character. He wanted revenge on the superhero headquarters, but then changed his mind. And he was very protective of Miss Sinastah. He was very mindful of her feelings. I really liked that. He also wanted to prove himself. He wanted so badly to be like Lionheart and to be a real superhero and help people, even if it went against what the leader said. He was such a fun guy, a little awkward and quirky. I loved it!

The ending "fight scene" might have gone on a little too long in my opinion, but I was expecting it. It's a superhero book! There has to be some action! Another thing is that there are tons of characters in this book. At times it could be a little confusing trying to remember who was good and who was bad and what peoples' real names were and what their superhero names were. At some points in the book I was confused, but in the end I understood what was going on.

Overall I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I don't think I was expecting to love it as much as I did. I'm not a huge superhero fan, but I thought it would be nice to read something different. And I'm sure glad I did. This is a fun, exiting and thrilling, fast-pace read that will make just about every reader happy.

Overall Rating: 3.5 Stars

The Lost Heiress

(Relic Master Series #2) The Lost Heiress by Catherine Fisher


Pages: 362
Even though Tasceron and its Emperor have fallen, there is a rumor that the heiress to the throne still lives. If so, her life is in grave danger, especially from the Watch; she could be the key to overthrowing their tyrannical rule. But the Watch don't know she exists--yet.
It is up to Raffi and Galen to find the lost heiress before the Watch do. On their quest, they must once again decide whether or not to trust Carys, a former traveling companion and Watchspy. Her help might be the only way to find the lost heiress, who is hidden in a most dangerous and inaccessible place. But will Carys help Raffi and Galen, or will she share their secrets with the Watch?


The first book had me hooked on this series. I just love Catherine Fisher's writing, and so I was pretty excited to continue the series. Overall I was pretty happy with the outcome of this book.


The characters in this book are great. Raffi is so soft and sometimes he doesn't understand what is going on, which made me laugh a few times. Galen is just strange, I can't even describe him. He just adds a mixture of confusion, anger, and wisdom. But, one of my favorite characters in this book is Carys. She is such a hard-ass sometimes. She is bossy, arrogant, deceiving, and rude, but she is super smart and cunning. I love it.


Sometimes I felt like Catherine Fisher didn't fully explain things, like who Flain is and what exactly Flainsday was. I had to sit and think about what was going on at points, which I don't always like.


But, Overall I was pretty pleased. I love the world of Anara, and I can't wait to read the third book and find out more about Raffi and Galen's adventures.


Overall Rating: 3 Stars
my review of  (Relic Master #1) The Dark City --> here!

Tuesday, August 16, 2011

Top Ten Tuesday -- Series



Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by The Broke and the Bookish. This week's top ten is a freebie, so I decided to pick the top ten first books in a series.




10. Everlost by Neil Shusterman
09. Wither by Lauren DeStefano
08. Shiver by Maggie Stiefvater
07. Blood Red Road by Moira Young
06. Life As We Knew It by Susan B. Pfeffer
05. The Maze Runner by James Dashner
04. Divergent by Veronica Roth
03. Summer Promise by Robin Jones Gunn
02. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
01. The Knife of Never Letting Go by Patrick Ness


That's my top ten favorite series starters! What is your Top Ten list?

Monday, August 15, 2011

Musing Monday 11

Musing Monday is  hosted by MizB at Should Be Reading. This week's musing asks...


Do you like looking at other people's bookshelves?


My Answer: Umm... HECK YES! No, seriously, I do. Whenever I go to my friend Aryn's house, I don't leave without one of her books in my arms. And it's pretty much the same when she comes over to my house. I love getting new books from my friends, and sometimes they find books that I haven't heard about, so I learn about a lot of new books from my friends. 

Do you like looking at other people's bookshelves?
Follow, comment, and leave a blog address and I'll follow you back! (:

Sunday, August 14, 2011

Forever

Forever (Wolves of Mercy Falls #3) by Maggie Stiefvater

Pages: 386
then.
When Sam met Grace, he was a wolf and she was a girl. Eventually he found a way to become a boy, and their love moved from a curious distance to the intense closeness of shared lives.
now.
That should have been the end of their story. But Grace was not meant to stay human. Now she is the wolf. And the wolves of Mercy Falls are about to be killed in one final, spectacular hunt.
forever.
Sam would do anything for Grace. But can one boy and one love really change a hostile, predatory world? The past, the present, and the future are about to collide in one pure moment -- a moment of death or life, farewell or forever.

Shiver made me hooked; Linger left me desperately wanting more; and now, Forever has torn me apart, ripped out my heart, and then put it all back together again. I mean seriously. Did anyone see the ending of this book coming? I mean, I was shocked and torn apart and then... it all changed!

Because I'm already so hooked on this series, it made it easy for me to dive right in and gobble up every word. But, as I kept reading, I felt like everything was happening, yet nothing was happening at all. The book moved fast because I was so excited to finish, and because of Maggie Stiefvater's amazing writing, but I felt like there wasn't too much action. It was mostly contemplating.

The characters. Geez this is really tough. The characters have changed so much since Shiver. They are growing up, beating the odds, and surviving. All I can say is that I absolutely love Grace and Sam. I love their personalities, but more importantly, their love. I don't know if I've ever read about a love like theirs.

Overall I was very pleased with this book. It wasn't what I expected and I'm sad that the series is over, but I'm happy I got to live in the world of Mercy Falls for the time that I did. *Also, I love that the ink is red in this book!*

Overall Rating: 3.5 Stars

Friday, August 12, 2011

In My Mailbox (13)


In My Mailbox is hosted by The Story Siren. This week I got a TON of books! 


From a used bookstore in Bowling Green I bought:


Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling
&
SummerHill Secrets - 1 by Beverley Lewis

The rest of my goodies I bought from B&N!



Where I Belong by Gwendolyn Heasley
Entwined by Heather Dixon
Lock and Key by Sarah Dessen
Blood Red Road by Moira Young
Delirium (Special Edition) by Lauren Oliver (I'd love to get the original version!)
Lipstick Apology by Jennifer Jabaley

What did you get in your mailbox this week?

Skyink Giveaway


SkyInk.net

Over at Skyink, there is a 100 Follower Giveaway happening! Just go to her blog, FOLLOW, and enter the contest to win one of three awesome books!  (: 

  

Beauty Queens by Libba Bray
Enclave by Ann Aguirre
Geist by Phillippa Ballantine

Promises to Keep

Promises to Keep by Ann Tatlock


Pages: 343
Eleven-year-old Roz (Rosalind) Anthony and her family have just moved to Mills River, Illinois, to escape an abusive situation. Only days after settling into their new home, they are surprised to find the previous owner, Tillie Monroe, on their front porch reading the newspaper. Though her sons have sold the house and sent her to a facility for the aged, she is determined to die in the place she lived her life and somehow manages to find her way "home" day after day. Feeling sympathy for the elderly woman, Roz's mother allows Tillie to move back in.
Mara Nightingale becomes Roz's first friend in Mills River. In spite of their many differences, the girls discover they have something in common that binds them together--both are hiding secrets. So they make a promise--"cross my heart and hope to die"--never to tell anyone else.
When danger stalks the Anthonys, Tillie exhibits unimaginable courage and selfless love in her determination to protect the family she has adopted as her own.
A mother fleeing unspeakable danger to keep her children safe...
Two young girls guarding secrets in a "cross my heart and hope to die" pledge...
A father desperate to be reunited with his family...
Award-winning author Ann Tatlock skillfully blends her well-drawn characters into an inspiring tale of unimaginable courage and selfless love.



My friend Sydney gave me this book about four months ago and it's just been sitting on my shelf. It looked interesting, but I just never picked it up. Once I finally started to read it, I was so engrossed in the story, I would look up at the clock to find that two hours had passed by in the blink of an eye.  
I love that this story is told from the girl's point of view and not the mom. From what I've read, all the books about abusive relationships have been written from the wife/husband's point of view. Roz is such an interesting little character. She is really unique from other characters I've read about, and I think it's just her childish personality and how little she really knows about the real world. 
The plot of this book is unique, not only because of the point of view, but because it takes place from 1967-1968. The little town they live in seems so different from nowadays, I just loved it! The ending to this book was pretty predictable, and from just about the very beginning I knew what was probably going to happen. As I continued to read though, the father was so convincing that he had even me believing every word he said.
Overall I was pleasantly surprised with this book. The wording was easy and it flowed from sentence to sentence so I was easily hooked into the story. I loved the rhythm of this book and story it tells.


Overall Rating: 4 Stars

Follow Friday 14


Follow My Book Blog Friday is hosted by Parajunkee's View & Allison Can Read.
This week's question is:

Q. How has 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?


Well, I'm still a teen, but I guess you could say my reading habits have changed. I just stay up about four hours later and sleep until 2 O'clock! The genres that I love right now are all YA: romance and dystopian/sci-fi are my favorites right now. I also love fantasy books and umm... I forget what they are called but like more tragic books. For example: The Tension of Opposites by Kristina McBride. I'm really not that into paranormal books, but I keep trying to find a series in that genre that I really like.

How have your reading habits changed? and what genres are you in love with?
Follow & comment with a blog address and I'll follow you back! Happy Friday!

Thursday, August 11, 2011

BTT: National Book Week



Booking Through Thursday is a weekly book meme.  This week's BTT is:

It’s National Book Week. The rules: Grab the closest book to you. Go to page 56. Copy the 5th sentence as your status .


I'm reading Promises to Keep by Ann Tatlock. 
"Roz, Tillie says you need to come in now." 

Okay, so this sentence doesn't really explain anything about my book... but it's a great book so far! I'm really enjoying it. (: What is your Booking Through Thursday?

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Blood Red Road

Blood Red Road (Dustlands #1) by Moira Young

Pages: 459
Summary: (from goodreads) Saba has spent her whole life in Silverlake, a dried-up wasteland ravaged by constant sandstorms. The Wrecker civilization has long been destroyed, leaving only landfills for Saba and her family to scavenge from. That's fine by her, as long as her beloved twin brother Lugh is around. But when a monster sandstorm arrives, along with four cloaked horsemen, Saba's world is shattered. Lugh is captured, and Saba embarks on an epic quest to get him back.
Suddenly thrown into the lawless, ugly reality of the world outside of desolate Silverlake, Saba is lost without Lugh to guide her. So perhaps the most surprising thing of all is what Saba learns about herself: she's a fierce fighter, an unbeatable survivor, and a cunning opponent. And she has the power to take down a corrupt society from the inside. Teamed up with a handsome daredevil named Jack and a gang of girl revolutionaries called the Free Hawks, Saba stages a showdown that will change the course of her own civilization.
Blood Red Road has a searing pace, a poetically minimal writing style, violent action, and an epic love story. Moira Young is one of the most promising and startling new voices in teen fiction.



Well, Blood Red Road has always looked interesting to me, but I never picked it up. I don't understand why I never picked it up, but I'm glad I finally did! It's about time I found a great new series with adventure, a strong heroine, and a few epic battles.
When I first started reading this book, I wasn't quite drawn into the story. The writing style was so different, and I wasn't sure what to make of it. But, as I kept reading, Saba's attitude, determination (or stubbornness), and her love for her brother kept me engrossed in the story. Besides Saba, I really loved the other characters in the book. Emmi was one of my favorites. She is just as stubborn as Saba. Personally, I think she is exactly like Saba but nine years younger. Saba just doesn't realize it. And Jack was a nice character to read about. Not only was he good looking, but he was humorous, quick with a come-back, and he loved to irritate Saba. I was so angry with Saba for pushing him away! I swear I could've strangled her.
The adventure that Saba embarks on is a never-ending struggle. I loved it! From the Sandsea, the battles at Hopetown, the Hellworms, and the finale, everything was written beautifully! The situations were so bad at times, but they seemed to only get worse with a turn of the page! 
Overall, this is one of the best books I've read in a long time. I read quickly, but I read every sentence thoroughly. I felt that I couldn't just skim through the pages, I had to really read everything. The dialogue was pretty fast-paced and it made for a great read.


Overall Rating: 5 Stars

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

Waiting on Wednesday (Aug 10)

Waiting On Wednesday is hosted by Breaking the Spine. I know it's Tuesday right now, but only for four more hours. I'm just sooo excited! I found out some AWESOME information about this book and I just can' wait until tomorrow to share it with yall. (: This week my WOW is:

The Power of Six 
&
I Am Number Four: The Lost Files: Six's Legacy
by Pittacus Lore



I picked two books this week because I just found out today that I Am Number Four the Lost Files: Six's Legacy will be released on the same day! AUGUST 23. It's the day before school starts up again for me, so I can't stay up all night and read them, but I will be reading them when I'm not supposed to during class! It's also my sister's birthday, so somehow I'm going to have to convince her to let us go to B&N. (:

What are you waiting on this Wednesday?

The New World

The New World by Patrick Ness


E-book
Publishers SummaryIn this dramatic prequel to the award-winning Chaos Walking Trilogy, author Patrick Ness gives us the story of Viola’s journey to the New World. Whether you’re new to Chaos Walking or an established fan, this prequel serves as a fascinating introduction to the series that Publishers Weekly called “one of the most important works of young adult science fiction in recent years.”

The New World is a prequel to the Chaos Walking Series (The Knife of Never Letting Go, The Ask and the Answer, & Monsters of Men) by Patrick Ness. Well, the Chaos Walking Series is one of my all-time favorite series ever! So, when I was browsing through Amazon.com, I was soo excited to see this book! It is an ebook unfortunately, so I can't put it on my bookshelf with the other three books in the series, BUT, it's FREE! So I was pretty happy with that. 



Viola is such an amazing character. Throughout all the books she was so strong and brave, it was hard to remember that she was only 13! This book showed a different side of her. She is hesitant, and a little bit of a brat towards her parents about coming to the New World. I loved seeing a more nervous and scared side of her.


This book is very short, but it is packed in with an amazing story. The way it is written, it changes scenes from being on the ship and approaching New World, and from five months earlier when Viola was about to leave. Whenever something was about to happen in present tense, Ness would switch back to what was happening 5 months ago, leaving for a very suspenseful read.


Overall I was very pleased with this book and super excited to read about Viola. Ness is such a great writer, he just draws me into the story. My only complaint is that it isn't in a physical version. I'd love to get a hold of this book!


Overall Rating: 4.5 Stars

Teaser Tuesday (8)

Teaser Tuesday is hosted by Should Be Reading. This week's teaser comes from the book Blood Red Road.


Jack! I yell. Hang on! I'm gonna git you outta there! Keys. Quick. I feel the kieys on the ring in my hand. My heart stops. There's gotta be ten keys on here. All the same size.
Page 216 of Blood Red Road by Moira Young


What is your Teaser Tuesday? Follow, comment and leave a blog address and I'll follow back! (:

Monday, August 8, 2011

Musing Monday (10)

Musing Monday is hosted by Should Be Reading.
This week's Musing asks...
If you were going on vacation, which books would you take with you?

Right now I am "on vacation" at my Nana's house (: 
I packed lightly because I know that I am going to get some new reads! (I already bought one) When I'm on vacation, I try to tackle my TBR pile.
I brought two books that friends have loaned me and I haven't read yet: The Green Rider, and Promises to Keep.I always bring my Bible along to read. I also brought some new E-books I received: No Shoes, No Shirt, No Spells, and Rock and Roll is Undead, Only You, Sierra, and Spellbound. For me, this is packing lightly! I also brought a wad of cash that I've been saving up so I can get some books I've been dying to read! Nana let's me buy more books than mom does (: I've already bought Blood Red Road, and I hope to get more by the end of the week!


Are you a huge reader on vacation like me? What books do you bring with you? Follow & comment with a blog address and I'll be sure to follow you back! 

ARC Giveaway!

Babbling Flow is giving away five ARC's! 



Shut Out by Kody Keplinger
The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin
Ashes by Ilsa Black (signed!)
After Obsession by Carrie Jones & Steve Wedei
The Eleventh Plague by Jeff Hirsch

Go check out this contest!

Sunday, August 7, 2011

Only You, Sierra

Only You, Sierra by Robin Jones Gunn

Pages: 115
Sierra was nervous about the future. She had always been the bold, free-spirited type. But then, her whole foundation of home and family had never before been rocked.
Sierra Jensen settled back into her seat and gazed through the train window at the English countryside. So much was on her mind, and her heart was flooded with emotions. She hoped the friendship she had made with Katie and Christy the past week during the Europe mission trip would last forever.
She dreaded the flight back to the States, knowing that everything would be completely different when she returned home. While in England, Sierra's family had moved to a different state. She hated the thought of going to a new high school in the middle of her junior year, where everybody already had their cliques and boyfriends. The prospect of another dateless year made her heart sink.
She wondered if she'd ever find love, and then in a London airport, she met Paul. Her heart, which had sunk so low, leapt! But of course, it was just a chance meeting...wasn't it? She would never see him again...would she?


The Sierra Jensen Series starts where the Christy Miller Series ends. As much as I love the Christy Miller series, I knew I had to start this one! I'm really glad I did too.

The characters from Christy Miller are in the very beginning of this book, and they didn't fail to put a smile on  my face and a giggle on my lips. They are only in the first few chapters though, so that was a good and a sad thing. Sierra seems like a great character I can't wait to get to know. She seems to be stuck up, but she isn't. She is a small girl who is not afraid to say what she feels. She is strong, but still a growing teenage girl. I just loved her personality and I was wrapped into it.

The other minor characters in the book where pretty cool too. She has four brothers and an older sister which would be tough, hectic, but fun! Her grandmother's mind is fading which makes for an interesting plot. Sometimes she confuses Sierra with her daughter Emma. Being in that situation would be tough, and I feel that Sierra handles it quite well.

Overall I really enjoyed the first book in this series. It is full of God-things and I love that in books. The plot in this book was very realistic and that was a plus. I'm at the same age Sierra is, so I can relate to a lot of her problems -- like boys, cars, and cell phones! I have high hopes for the rest of the series and I can't wait to get my hands on the rest of them!

Overall Rating: 3.5 Stars