Review: Matched

Title: Matched
Series: Matched Trilogy #1
Author: Ally Condie
Genre: Young Adult
Format: Hardcover, 369pp
Source: Library

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Synopsis

Cassia has always trusted the Society to make the right choices for her: what to read, what to watch, what to believe. So when Xander's face appears on-screen at her Matching ceremony, Cassia knows he is her ideal mate . . . until she sees Ky Markham's face flash for an instant before the screen fades to black. The Society tells her it's a glitch, a rare malfunction, and that she should focus on the happy life she's destined to lead with Xander. But Cassia can't stop thinking about Ky, and as they slowly fall in love, Cassia begins to doubt the Society's infallibility and is faced with an impossible choice: between Xander and Ky, between the only life she's known and a path that no one else has dared to follow.


Review

This is a very good book. I love the world Ally created. Everyone has made a big stink about her book copying The Giver. I read it in 5th grade, which is a long time ago but I still read it. maybe I would have to read it again to catch it but I didn't catch any similarities except for their perfect world falling apart. Mrs. Condie described her world so well I saw it playing through my head like a movie.

I was kind of disappointed that Cassia chose Ky instead of Xander. I didn't understand why she was so fascinated with him. I guess the mystery of him but still. How can she all of the sudden just stop talking to Xander?

In a way I want her to find Ky and save him but I really want her to choose Xander. I don't know why I'm so attached to Xander, theres just something about him..


For those of you who have read this book, How did you feel about the Xander/Ky situation? Who do you think she should choose and why?


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Called Home: Two Hearts Answer

Title: Called Home: Two Hearts Answer
Author: Gloria Schuman
Genre: Romance
Format: eBook, 342
Source: Author, Requested Review

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Synopsis

Emma Benson's view of life was crafted as a child by the death of her brother, the abandonment by her father and later, the man she trusted she would marry. A teacher by training, she forgoes her chosen path to save the Wisconsin farm she calls home from financial ruin.

A tornado threatens damage, but David Schlosser- back in town after years in New York writing best-selling novels—could ruin her neatly tended life. He's looking for the charms of the small town he once rejected and finds more than he bargained for. He risks everything to get what he wants.

The storms of life throw Emma and David together and into the world of a criminal determined to ruin their plans by any means necessary. Robbery and near death connect Emma and David to their nemesis and during the throes of securing life and limb they make every effort to resist falling for one another.

Review

This is a very cute story, although Emma did rub me the wrong way to start with. Her attitude made me want to smack her a couple times. But the more I thought about it the more I realized that something bad had to have happened to her to make her act that way.We later find out her brother died as a child, and her father abandoned the family.  So she has some trust issues, especially when it comes to men.


When we meet David, he is kind of a mystery. He has feelings for Emma from the start, which confuse me. Why would anyone want to put up with someone who's always mean? But he pursues her. Which I think scares her a little bit.

I thought this was going to be a simple mystery but the twist at the end just makes the story all the better! I don't want to give anything away, but this is a very good, clean Romance/ Mystery.


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Review: If I Stay

Title: If I Stay
Author: Gayle Forman
Genre; Young Adult
Format: Hardcover, 201 pp
Source: Library

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Synopsis

In a single moment, everything changes. Seventeenyear- old Mia has no memory of the accident; she can only recall riding along the snow-wet Oregon road with her family. Then, in a blink, she fi nds herself watching as her own damaged body is taken from the wreck...
A sophisticated, layered, and heartachingly beautiful story about the power of family and friends, the choices we all make - and the ultimate choice Mia commands.


Review

This book totally took me by surprise. I had read a couple reviews on the internet, thought it might be a good read, so when I saw it in my local library I picked it up. This book completely knocked my socks off... To even imagine going through her situation got me all teary eyed. I loved the flashbacks on her life, how she connects with her parents, the love she has for her little brother. The love her and Adam share.

I couldn't ever imagine having to make the decision to live or die. Live without your parents, your brother. Live with your grandparents, boyfriend, best friend. Or to go to rest. Go to the next life with the people you love most. There's so much to think about. 

The only thing I didn't like about this book was the language. This book is supposed to be for Young Adult/Teen. On the B&N website it says 12 & up. They were dropping the F-bomb, Saying G-D, the B word. I know just about every kid cusses at some point in their life, but I don't think they should have this kind of language in a kids book.

I think I need to stock up in tissue. Here lately I have been getting these amazing books that always get me crying at some point. I think it's awesome that these Authors can get you on that level. Get you so tied up in their story that you feel connected to that character. I can not wait to read Where She Went.


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At the end of this book there is an acknowledgments section, Gayle had said she listened to "Falling Slowly" by Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova, more than two hundred times while working on the book. So I searched it. It's a pretty amazing song.

WINNER: Sisterhood Everlasting

Thank you so  much to all of my followers, new and old! I never thought anyone would really be interested in reading about what I thought of a book, but I guess I was wrong. Thank you to everyone who entered. I wish everyone could get something but I only have one. So on to the Winner!

Using Random.org, here are the results: 

Lauren @ShootingStarsMag

Congrats to the winner! I will be sending you an email shortly!
You have 48 hours to respond. After 48 hours I will pick a new winner.

Thanks again to everyone who entered! Stay tuned for more giveaways.

Review: Catching Fire

Title: Catching Fire
Series: The Hunger Games #2
Author: Suzanne Collins
Genre: Young Adult
Format: Hardcover, 391 pp
Source: Library

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Website | Good Reads | Facebook



Synopsis

Against all odds, Katniss Everdeen has won the annual Hunger Games with fellow district tribute Peeta Mellark. But it was a victory won by defiance of the Capitol and their harsh rules. Katniss and Peeta should be happy. After all, they have just won for themselves and their families a life of safety and plenty. But there are rumors of rebellion among the subjects, and Katniss and Peeta, to their horror, are the faces of that rebellion. The Capitol is angry. The Capitol wants revenge.


 

Review


This is not going to be a very long review. I can't get into details for those of you who have not read this book. If you have read this book and would like to talk about it please feel free to email me.

This book did not disappoint. It was equally good if not better than the first one. I read this whole book in 12 hours. it sucked me right in and kept my attention. Kat knows she made the Capital mad but she never thought they would make her go back into the games. I never thought she would have to go back either. I actually cried a couple times.

I am torn with the love triangle in this book. I usually have my favorite but I'm just as confused as Katniss is.

I loved this Games in this book. I loved how you're right there trying to figure out the riddles. And the end, tear-jerker. You will probably need to grab a tissue when you read this.


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Reminder

Just a friendly reminder, Only 2 days left to enter my 50 follower giveaway.

I have 1 print ARC of  Sisterhood Everlasting by Ann Brashares up for grabs!

So, If you haven't yet, please check out this post and enter!

Review: Hidden By Blood

Title: Hidden by Blood
Series: Sweetblood Series #1.5
Author: Laurie London
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Format: eBook, 57pg
Source: B&N, Free

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Synopsis


Deep within the forests of the Pacific Northwest, two vampire coalitions battle for supremacy—Guardians who safeguard humanity and Darkbloods, rogues who will stop at nothing to satisfy their craving for the sweetest of human blood.
Now, former Army Ranger Finn McKentry finds himself imprisoned as a blood slave, forced to submit to an enemy more powerful than any he's encountered before. Only Brenna Stewart, the woman he'd loved and lost, can set him free—but the secret she harbors might lead them down the most dangerous path of all…



Review

Even though this is a Novella, Laurie got everything packed in here. At only 57 pages, I didn't feel rushed. I thought it went at a even pace.

I thought this was a good addition to the Sweetblood Series. You get to see a little further into the lives of other vampires in the community and how they struggle to stay away from the Sweet, even though it may be tempting.

This was a very good short story. I think anyone who likes the Sweetblood Series will like this novella.



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Review: Keeping Grace Alive

Title: Keeping Grace Alive
Series: Poconos Mountain Series #1
Author: Annie Lee
Genre: Romance
Format: eBook, 211pg
Source: Author, Requested Review

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Synopsis

Rudy Talbot, head of one of America’s largest organized crime rings, hires his main hit man, Jessie Conners, to kill his step-daughter Grace. Jessie Conners is a seasoned hitman who has never missed a hit before. That is, until he met “Gracie” five years ago and fell in love with her. Gracie is a rebellious socialite in her mid-twenties. Refusing to marry the current Senator’s son, Phillip Proctor, Gracie stands in the way of Rudy Talbot and his political dreams. Rudy knows both Jessie and Phillip have feelings for Gracie. Attempting to play the two men off of each other, Rudy’s plan backfires when Jessie stages an abduction to whisk Gracie to safety. But Conner’s had no idea that falling in love with Gracie would lead to the seemingly impossible task of keeping Gracie alive as her own medical conditions and step-father threaten her every move. Hiding her in his Pocono Mountain cabin, it soon becomes apparent that the only person who can keep Gracie alive is herself. And the only thing that guarantees her safety, going back and facing her past, will most likely get her killed. Jessie Conners goes against everything he knows in a struggle to save the love of his life. Suspense, mystery, and romance await readers of Keeping Grace Alive.



Review


This was such a cute story. I instantly fell in love with the characters. There was never a dull moment reading this book. I love that Jessie is this big bad hit man, and he falls deeply in love with this fragile woman and completely submits himself to her. He's not ashamed to tell her that he has loved her from the moment he saw her, and gives her a chance to see if she feels the same. It makes you believe in love at first sight.

I love the 'brothers'. I was laughing out loud at Bubba. (Imagine a huge, 6 foot plus black guy crying during Hallmark commercials!) He's nothing more than a big teddy bear. I hope we get to see more of him. I hope to see more of all the brothers.

This isn't your usual romance book. There are many similarities, but it's so different. All I can say is you should deffinately add this book to your TBR pile!

I can't wait to read book two. I think I have just found a new favorite Author!


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In My Mailbox # 10

Hosted by Kristy at The Story Siren,  inspired by Alea of Pop Culture Junkie.

Where we post about books we have received 

during the week via mailbox, local library, or store bought, etc.

_______

 

 

 For Review

The Map of Time - Felix J. Palma

Vaclav & Lena - Haley Tanner

Blood Magic - Tessa Gratton

The Inconvenient Marriage of Charlotte Beck - Y'Barbo

Keeping Grace Alive - Annie Lee (ebook)

Awaken The Highland Warrior - Anita Clenney (ebook)

Called Home - Two Hearts Answer - Gloria Schumann (ebook)

 

Bought

Shade - Jeri Smith-Ready

Cryer's Cross - Lisa McMann

Untamed - P.C. & Kristin Cast

The Summoning - Kelly Armstrong

Uglies - Scott Westerfeld

Shadow Bound - Erin Kellison

 

 

 That's it for me! What did you get in your Mailbox?

 

_______________________________________________

P.S.  Sorry I haven't been posting regularly, I have my friends little sister here until the end of the month. She has been very patient with me, telling me I can read if I want but I feel bad making her sit through hours of doing nothing. I am still reading but as fast as I would like.  Things should get back to normal around Mid August, After my friend has her baby and I take her sister home. Please stick with me. I am trying to giveaways, Not very many people are entering. I am currently giving away Sisterhood Everlasting by Ann Brashares, If you or anyone you know would like to win the book please Enter Here!

What would you do?

What would you do for a chance to win an ARC of Passion by Lauren Kate? Well here's your chance, Jenny@New Books For New Bloggers is giving one away! This is what she said:

Here's the deal: I want a mini story of not less than 250 words and not more than 700 words. The story must contain some iconic paranormal/supernatural/fairytale/mythological being OTHER THAN fallen angels, vampires, and werewolves. It can be funny, romantic, sad, scary, etc. Whatever you want as long as it's a story.
Deadline: July 15, 2011.
The rest:

• YOU DO need to be 13 or older to enter.
• YOU DO need to either tweet or blog about the contest in order to enter.
• YOU DO need to check spelling and grammar.
• YOU DO need to be creative and have fun
• YOU DO need to Fill Out This Form To Enter

Who wins: The winner is the person who writes the story that makes me sit back from my computer and go, "Wow. Now THAT'S what I call a fun read." It's not based on crazy, Harvard graduate language or most unique idea in the world but something that's very entertaining. I hope you make it so hard for me to decide that I have to call in help. I know you can do it!


So what are you waiting for?  Start writing your story!

50 Follower Giveaway!

I know it's nothing big, but I have 49 followers! Almost 50! I can't believe it. I've only been blogging for 9 months and it amazes me that people actually care about what I'm writing. So as my thanks to you, I am giving away 1 ARC of  Sisterhood Everlasting by Ann Brashares.

Return to the Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants . . . ten years later

From #1 New York Times bestselling author Ann Brashares comes the welcome return of the characters whose friendship became a touchstone for a generation. Now Tibby, Lena, Carmen, and Bridget have grown up, starting their lives on their own. And though the jeans they shared are long gone, the sisterhood is everlasting.
Despite having jobs and men that they love, each knows that something is missing: the closeness that once sustained them. Carmen is a successful actress in New York, engaged to be married, but misses her friends. Lena finds solace in her art, teaching in Rhode Island, but still thinks of Kostos and the road she didn’t take. Bridget lives with her longtime boyfriend, Eric, in San Francisco, and though a part of her wants to settle down, a bigger part can’t seem to shed her old restlessness.
Then Tibby reaches out to bridge the distance, sending the others plane tickets for a reunion that they all breathlessly await. And indeed, it will change their lives forever—but in ways that none of them could ever have expected.
As moving and life-changing as an encounter with long-lost best friends, Sisterhood Everlasting is a powerful story about growing up, losing your way, and finding the courage to create a new one.



This Giveaway starts on Friday, July 1, 2011 and ends on Friday, July 15, 2011 @ 11:59 PM Central Time.

This giveaway for US residents only please.

To enter this giveaway please fill out this FORM.


Connect with the Author:  Website | Facebook  | Twitter | Blog

The Legal Stuff

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• The Blogging Book is not responsible for items lost in shipping or items shipped from 3rd party sponsors. 
• Winners will be chosen randomly by The Blogging Book using Random.org .
• You have to be a follower to participate.
• Winners will be contacted by The Blogging Book via email or blog post depending on availability.
• There is no limit to the amount of giveaways you can enter on The Blogging Book but you can only enter each giveaway once, there are five extra entries available for this giveaway.  If it is found that a person has entered the same giveaway more than the allotted entries those entries will be disqualified.
• If it is not stated, it should be assumed that giveaway items have been provided by a 3rd party as a donation to The Blogging Book.