Booklady's Booknotes

Moved!

2011-06-11T12:04:00.000-07:00

I have imported this blog to Wordpress to avoid having the blog blocked by my school. I'm still trying to see if I can import my followers, but because I am using Wordpress.com instead of Wordpress.org I can't seem to make it work.

In the mean time I hope you will join me at the New Booklady's Booknotes.

If I Move To Wordpress Will You Still Follow?

2011-06-11T06:08:00.000-07:00

This first full week of summer vacation has been spent in professional development. Yesterday's class was all about blogging. I've been blogging for a couple of years, but wanted tips on how to do it better, as well as getting tips on how to use blogging with my students. Got some great ideas, but found out that I will not be able to use blogger with my students. Something about not being able to restrict searches on blogger and therefore not being able to keep the appropriate level of safety/privacy for students.

I totally understand the reasoning. I've already moved my school library related blog over to the D20 Wordpress site. You can find it at Mrs. Archer's Book Notes. I have strict privacy settings on it - i.e. all comments have to be approved by me before they are posted. This blog is not school related, but covers books of all genres and ages. However it does have information that I like to share with my staff. If I keep it on blogger, they won't be able to access it from school. Educators are busy. If I send them a link to a blog post they might find useful, then tell them they can't look at it until they get home, chances are they'll have forgotten about it by the time the get home.

After the recent Splash Into Summer Blogger Hop Giveaway, my followers jumped up to 149. I was very excited about this. Though I'm sure many of those new followers only signed up for a chance to win the Amazon gift certificate I was giving away. Still, I worry that if (when) I move to Wordpress, I'll lose those followers.

Another advantage to moving this blog over, would be having everything on the same dashboard. Of course that would mean I'd also have to move my Breast Cancer and Photography Blog as well.

I think I know what I'm going to do, but tell me - What would you do?

The Goddess Test by Amiee Carter

2011-06-04T05:49:00.000-07:00

I received an e-galley of this book from Librarything's Early Review program.

Summary: It's always been just Kate and her mom—and her mother is dying. Her last wish? To move back to her childhood home. So Kate's going to start at a new school with no friends, no other family and the fear her mother won't live past the fall.

Then she meets Henry. Dark. Tortured. And mesmerizing. He claims to be Hades, god of the Underworld—and if she accepts his bargain, he'll keep her mother alive while Kate tries to pass seven tests.

Kate is sure he's crazy—until she sees him bring a girl back from the dead. Now saving her mother seems crazily possible. If she succeeds, she'll become Henry's future bride, and a goddess.

I love good books with a take on mythology. So this was a good read for me.

What I liked about the book: 1.) Kate. She's a strong character, very well developed. Life has been tough for Kate. Her mother is dying. She's moved to a new school. She makes a new friend (though an unlikely one) only to have her die. Instead of whining about how life has mistreated her, Kate sets out on a course to try to make things right and to try to save her mother. Kate is not your stereotypical spoiled teen. 2.) It's a modern twist on Greek mythology. (Did I mention how much I like mythology?). Granted Carter has put her own spin on the Greek Gods, but that actually makes the story better. I like how she thinks outside the box. 3.) It's not your typical paranormal romance. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy a good vampire/angel/werewolf romance, but it's refreshing to find a well written different take on the paranormal romance.

What I didn't like about the book: There really wasn't anything I didn't like about the story. If pressed, I would say I might have liked it better if Kate didn't take so much blame on herself. She feels guilty about what happens to Ava and she even feels guilty when she has to pass judgement on her. Yet, I can't really say this is a bad thing about the book. It's part of what makes Kate who she is.

If you enjoy books about mythology and a you enjoy the teen romance, this is a good read for you.

June RAK

2011-06-04T04:58:00.000-07:00

RAK is hosted by Book Soulmates. Its a way to pass on the book love.

May sure went by quickly. I didn't receive any RAKs this month. I only sent out one RAK this month. I hope to be better about it in June. I'm such a book geek and I love sharing books with others. I guess that's one of the reasons I'm a librarian.

So, here is my WISHLIST for this month.

If you want to participate this month sign up is HERE.

Can you believe it's already June?!

Rules:

• Sign up each month you'd like to participate in.
• Show off your participation! Grab one of the buttons available :)
• Create a wishlist and post it in the Google Doc located in each R.A.K post for the month.
{Post on your blog, Amazon, where ever as long as there's a link to it.}
• If you choose to do a R.A.K for someone, check out their wishlist and contact that blogger for their address.
• At the end of the month, SHOW US YOUR R.A.K!

{Make a post saying 'Thank You' to whoever granted one of your wishes :)

Happy Summer Reading Everyone!

June Book Club Read - The Next Thing On My List by Jill Smolinski

2011-06-03T05:44:00.000-07:00

June Parker gives a ride to a stranger and it changes her life. The passenger, a young woman named Marissa, is killed in a freak accident, leaving June feeling responsible. When returning Marissa’s purse to her grieving family, June discovers that Marissa had a list of things she wanted to accomplish by her 25^th birthday. June decides that she will finish Marissa’s list for her. Kissing a total stranger, going braless, and eating ice cream in public are the easy ones. Changing someone else’s life will be the challenge. Yet, June, with the help of friends and co-workers tackles the list with determination. As she marks things off her list, she discovers it just might be her own life she changes.

My book club (The Pikes Peak Bookworms) selected The Next Thing On My List because we wanted a light read after having read two rather dark selections. It was certainly a light, quick read.

What I liked about the book: It was easy for me to connect with this book because I am working on my own Life Celebration list. It’s a feel good story – a welcome break after the rather somber reading I’ve been doing the last several months. The pacing was just perfect for a summer beach read. And though the book does make you think about your life and where it’s going, it’s not so deep that it feels like “assigned reading.” Smolinski has a light, witty writing style that will appeal to most readers, especially those who enjoy “Chick Lit.” The author includes discussion questions at the back of the book along with activities to help readers create their own list. Since this is a book club read, I found this to be rather helpful.

What I didn’t like about the book: I didn’t like the romantic twist at the end. Not that this takes away from the book. It just didn’t end the way I expected or had hoped. However, upon reflection, Smolinski did include clues about where the romance was going. I just failed to pick up on them.

If you enjoy Chick Lit or if you are looking for a quick, easy read for travel or the beach, this is a book you should slip into your travel/beach tote.

The Pikes Peak Bookworms will be discussing this book on June 6^th. I’ll let you know what the rest of the group thinks.

Splash Into Summer Winner!

2011-06-02T05:05:00.000-07:00

The winner of the $25 Amazon Gift Certificate is Kim The Book Butterfly.

Thanks to everyone who entered. I am working on compiling everyone's favorite summer reads for a future post. Happy Reading!

ARC Review: The American Heiress: A Novel by Daisy Goodwin

2011-06-01T06:13:00.000-07:00

I won an ARC of this book from Goodreads.

The American Heiress tells the story of Cora Cash, a wealthy young American beauty from the turn of the Twentieth Century. The only child of a “new money” family, Cora is her mother’s entrée into society. Mrs. Cash is determined to make the ultimate marriage match for her daughter – one with a title. On a trip to England, Cora finds herself in a whirlwind courtship with an impoverished duke with secrets. After an over the top wedding, Cora finds herself trying to navigate the pitfalls of being American among British nobility. For once, her wealth can’t solve everything.

To be honest, I’m still trying to figure out how I feel about this book. I thought it was well written. Godwin included just the right amount of detail to give the reader a sense of the time period. I found Cora to be a very likable character. I was very interested in her story and wanted to know how it would end. However, I had a real hard time reading this book. I kept finding it way too easy put it aside. In the end, I had to force myself to sit down and not move until I finished the book. In fairness, that could be due to the fact that I would classify this book as a romance, not a genre I read very often.

What I liked about the book: Cora. She’s a very strong woman, but not so strong as to be unbelievable. She is the reason I kept reading. The setting – I’m an Anglophile and I enjoy stories with a British or Irish twist. The ending – I won’t post any spoilers, but I have to admit I was a little concerned about how she was going to wrap it all up – would it be believable. It wasn’t a Pollyanna ending, but it fit the story rather well

What I didn’t like about the book: There were several characters I didn’t like, but I don’t think the reader is meant to like them very much. There is more than one villain in this story. The main thing I did not like about this book was the pacing. It was a good story, but it just didn’t grab me. It often felt like a chore to read this book and that is why I only gave it three stars.

If you enjoy romances, stories about turn of the century England and are not looking for a fast paced, grab you by the collar read – then this could be the book for you.

ARC Review - Beauty Queens by Libba Bray

2011-05-31T09:11:00.000-07:00

I received an Advance Reader's Copy of this book through the Amazon Vine Program in exchange for a honest review.

Summary: The fifty contestants in the Miss Teen Dream Pageant thought this was going to be a fun trip to the beach, where they could parade in their state-appropriate costumes and complete in front of the cameras. But sadly, their airplane had another idea, crashing on a desert island and leaving the survivors stranded with little food, little water, and practically no eye liner.

What’s a beauty queen to do? Continue to practice for the talent portion of the program – or wrestle snakes to the ground? Get a perfect tan – or learn to run wild? And what should happen when the sexy pirates show up?

Welcome to the heart of non-exfoliated darkness. Your tour guide? None other than Libba Bray, the hilarious, sensational, Printz Award-winning author of A Great and Terrible Beauty and Going Bovine. The result is a novel that will make you laugh, make you think, and make you never see beauty the same way again.

There has been a lot of comparisons of this book to the TV show Lost. I can't really speak to that since I've never watched that show. It did remind me vaguely of Survivor and Lord of the Flies - only with with teen age girls and a great deal more humor.

What I liked: This is a funny, mindless read. Several times I found myself reading aloud humorous passages to my husband. But of course, being a guy he didn't always get the humor. It was action packed with perfect pacing. I also liked that it was a light read. Of course, it has plenty of depth, if you want to get serious and think of it as a commentary on feminism, commercialism and the shallowness of the cosmetics industry. Buty why spoil the fun?

What I didn't like? Even though I much prefer Bray's Rebel Angels series, I can't think of anything I didn't like about this book. It's an all around great summer read.

Ice: A Memoir of Gangster Life and Redemption-from South Central to Hollywood by Ice-T and Douglas Century

2011-05-29T05:41:00.000-07:00

Amazon Product Description:

My life’s been a great story / In the ultimate war / Should I ill or do right? / Make peace or go raw?—Ice-T, “Exodus”

He’s a hip-hop icon credited with single-handedly creating gangsta rap in the 1980s. Television viewers know him as Detective Odafin “Fin” Tutuola on the top-rated TV drama Law & Order: SVU. But where the hype and the headlines end, the real story of Ice-T—the one few of his millions of fans have ever heard—truly begins.

Ice is Ice-T in his own words—raw, uncensored, and unafraid to speak his mind. About his orphan upbringing on the gang-infested streets of South Central Los Angeles. About his four-year stint in the U.S. Army’s famed “Tropic Lightning” outfit. About his successful career as a hustler and thief, the car crash that nearly killed him, and the fateful decision to turn away from a life of crime and forge his own path to international entertainment stardom.

Ice by Ice-T is both a tell-it-like-it-is tale of redemption and a star-studded tour of the pop culture firmament. The acclaimed rapper and actor shares never-before-told stories about friends like Tupac, Dick Wolf, Chris Rock, and an antler-clad Flavor Flav, among others. Readers will ride along as Ice-T’s incendiary rock band Body Count narrowly escapes from a riotous mob of angry concertgoers in Milan, and listen in as the music legend battles the self-appointed censors over his controversial “Cop Killer” single.

Most of all, Ice is the place where one of the game’s most opinionated players breaks down his own secret plan for living, offering up candid observations on marriage and monogamy, the current state of hip-hop, and his latest passion: doing one-on-one gang interventions and mentoring at-risk youths around the country.

With insights into the cutthroat world of the street—and the cutthroat world of Hollywood—Ice is the inspirational story of a true American original.

This book was an impulse check out at the library. I was standing in line waiting to checkout and it was on the new non-fiction display. I enjoy watching Ice-T on Law and Order SVU. I like to read the occasional biography. So I decided to give it a try.

For the most part, I enjoyed reading this biography. I felt as though I was getting an inside glimpse into what makes Ice-T, Ice T. I realized that Ice-T is a lot different than my perception of Finn on Law & Order SVU. I found it to be well written and interesting.

However, if you are looking for a biography that will provide a moral lesson for today's youth, this is not it. He does discuss his transition from crime to legitimate work, but he doesn't take a strong stand about the wrongness of his time as a criminal. He's very true to his beliefs, which makes for an honest read.

Also, if you have a problem with foul language, particularly the F-word, then you might want to skip this book. If you want to learn about the man behind the image, then you should read this book, but if you have an "agenda", if you are looking for a motivational "don't do crime - take the straight and narrow path" story, you might want to search for another book.

If you are looking for an honest account of this man's life then this is a good read for you. He's very true to himself and he doesn't pull any punches. He doesn't smooth over his mistakes. And while he might not provide a strong warning against a life of crime, I really didn't find that he was glamorizing it. He does point out that there are risks and the price you pay if you get caught is high.

Overall, it was an impulse check out that turned out to be a rather good read.

Bookish Giveaway!

2011-05-26T09:27:00.000-07:00

I just ran across a new blog that I'm excited to follow. And not because they are giving away a wonderful prize. I'm really looking forward to reading the reviews. Of course this means my mountain of a TBR list will never shrink. :)

Do you want to win some of these great reads?! I know I do! Head over to Evie Bookish and enter the 500 follower giveaway! There will be 3 winners and it's open internationally and there are TONS of ways to earn extra entries! It ends June 15th!

Check it out for the prize, but I think you'll stay for the reviews.

Splash Into Summer Blog Hop Giveaway

2011-05-24T13:43:00.000-07:00

The Splash Into Summer Giveaway Hop is hosted by I Am A Reader, Not A Writer & Page Turners. It officially starts at Midnight tonight.

This is open to anywhere Amazon ships as the prize is a $25 Amazon gift card. You must be a follower and fill out the to enter. You can get an extra entry by leaving a comment with the title of your favorite summer read. Winner will be drawn randomly. Winner will be announced on June 1st.

After entering here hop on over to I Am A Reader Not A Writer to visit other blogs on the hop.

Happy Summer Reading!
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Desires of the Dead by Kimberly Dertling

2011-05-24T13:04:00.000-07:00


Cover from Goodreads - http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7827221-desires-of-the-dead

Summary: VIOLET AMBROSE'S SECRET IS OUT
Violet has a curious gift: the ability to sense the echoes emitted by murder victims. Only her boyfriend Jay and her closest family know. But when she locates the body of a missing boy sought by the FBI she puts herself firmly on their radar.

NOW SHE'S BEING WATCHED
As if dealing with regular calls from the FBI isn't enough, threatening notes are being left on her doorstep, and she feels disturbing echoes around the home of Jay's new best friend. Violet needs answers fast...

WHO CAN SHE TURN TO?
Violet should feel closer to Jay now he's moved from best friend to boyfriend, but she hasn't told him what's worrying her. She tells herself she's protecting him, but is their fledgling relationship strong enough to cope?

As Violet faces her fears alone she uncovers dark truths that lead her to danger...

Review:
Violet has a secret. The dead call out to her. She can't hear them speak, but she can the imprints of their death and that same imprint is on their killers. Only her family and her boyfriend, Jay, know she has this ability.

She sees and hears the echos of the deadViolet has the ability to detect echos left behind by murder victims, the same echos that are carried around by their killers. This has always been a closely guarded secret known only by her family and her best friend (and now boyfriend) Jay but it now looks like someone else has found out. With the FBI constantly asking questions and someone leaving threatening notes for Violet she has a lot on her plate. But why is she finding it so difficult to turn to Jay for help?

This is the sequel to Dertling's The Body Finder. And while I liked the first book better, this one was a good solid read. Rumor has it there will be more books in this series and I'm looking forward to finding out what Violet does with her ability.

What I Liked: The difference: Paranormal is the buzz word in young adult novels these days. However, much if it is centered around angels, demons, wolves and vampires. The Body Finder and Desires of the Dead is a refreshing break from the norm.

The pacing: Even though I was not surprised the events in the book, I felt Dertling did a nice job of creating a suspenseful story. The pacing is just right for building that suspense. And even though it is a sequel, it would work well as a read alone. Dertling pretty much ties up all the loose ends in The Body Finder.

What I Don't Like: Violet's friends. Jay is wonderful, but Chelsea is down right irritating. I suppose she's is to be the stereotypical selfish teenage girl. She did come across as spoiled, but rather flat. She's incredibly annoying and I'm not sure why Violet puts up with her.

Violet's secretiveness and lack of self preservation: Violet keeps to many secrets to herself. You would have thought she would have learned her lesson from the first book. She keeps putting herself into situations that anyone with a bit of sense would avoid.

Lack of parental involvement: I also found it disturbing that her parents are not more protective, especially after what happened to her in the first book.

These annoyances aside, it is an overall good read, one that sparks an interest in readers that will keep them coming back to see what happens next.

Angelfire by Courtney Allison Moulton

2011-05-19T10:11:00.000-07:00


Cover from Goodreads - http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/7285498-angelfire

Product Description

First there are nightmares.

Every night Ellie is haunted by terrifying dreams of monstrous creatures that are hunting her, killing her.

Then come the memories.

When Ellie meets Will, she feels on the verge of remembering something just beyond her grasp. His attention is intense and romantic, and Ellie feels like her soul has known him for centuries. On her seventeenth birthday, on a dark street at midnight, Will awakens Ellie's power, and she knows that she can fight the creatures that stalk her in the grim darkness. Only Will holds the key to Ellie's memories, whole lifetimes of them, and when she looks at him, she can no longer pretend anything was just a dream.

Now she must hunt.

Ellie has power that no one can match, and her role is to hunt and kill the reapers that prey on human souls. But in order to survive the dangerous and ancient battle of the angels and the Fallen, she must also hunt for the secrets of her past lives and truths that may be too frightening to remember.

I found this to be a very enjoyable read. Lately, it seems I've been swamped with books, that instead of being enjoyable were just a chore to read. Angelfire was a nice change of pace.

What I liked: The main characters. Ellie, though I think she has room to grow, is a very likable character. She came across as rather well grounded, concerned about many typical teen concerns (school, clothes, parties), but not overly spoiled or snotty. Will is your typical brooding, dark and handsome love interest.

The bad guys: No, I'm not on their side, but I thought the Reapers were a nice departure from your usual demons out to destroy the world.

What bothered me: There were two things that I found disturbing. Ellie's acceptance: When Ellie is "awakened", she seems to accept what is happening rather quickly. I guess that's to be expected when you are forced to fight the Reapers or die. I just thought she might have questioned her sanity a little more. I think most teens would.

Ellie's father: This isn't a criticism of the book. I just don't like him. He is certainly up for the bad parent of the year award. I sometimes wonder if he's been possessed by a Reaper.

Over all this is a great book. If you like good vs. evil with a little bit of romance as well as action, then this is a book that you should read. It is true that there are a lot of unanswered questions, but I think the author planned it that way on purpose as there are two more books yet to be published. Angelfire is a new and interesting spin on what seems to be a fast growing popular genre of books about angels. There is enough action and enough twists and turns (including a surprising revelation about Ellie) to keep readers turning the pages.

ARC Review: Rise of the Wolf: Wereworld Book 1 by Curtis Jobling

2011-05-17T12:44:00.000-07:00

Imagine a world ruled by Werelords--men and women who can shift at will into bears, lions, and serpents. When Drew suddenly discovers he's not only a werewolf but the long-lost heir to the murdered Wolf King's throne, he must use his wits and newfound powers to survive in a land suddenly full of enemies. Drew's the only one who can unite the kingdom in a massive uprising against its tyrant ruler, Leopold the Lion. But the king is hot on Drew's tail and won't rest until he's got the rebel Wolf's head.

I received this book from Librarything’s Early Review program. I have to admit I wasn’t sure if I would like it. Nothing against werewolves, but there are just so many good paranormal stories out there. In the first chapter or two things seemed to be moving so slowly, I had just about decided this was going to be one of those laborious reads. But, I was wrong. All of a sudden this story really took off and it became a real page turner.

Though the wolf takes the lead in this story, it’s not just about lycanthropy. Therianthropism runs rampant in this story. The Seven Realms is inhabited by were beasts of all kinds: wolves, lions, foxes, stags, bears, rats, serpents, boars, and even sharks. I found that this made it more than just your normal run of the mill paranormal fantasy. This story has it all: a little romance, lost children, treachery, a little magic, and a little necromancy and of course, good vs. evil. Leopold, the Lion Werelord and current ruler of Lyssia, stole the throne from Wergar the Wolf King. Leopold murdered the king and all of his children - or so he thought.

Our hero, Drew, is the long lost son of the murdered king, hidden away by a loyal servant. He knows nothing of who or what he is, until one night a monster attacks his family and Drew makes his first shift to the inner wolf. That night is the first step that will lead Drew to his true history and destiny.

What I liked about this book: The pacing. Even though it gets off to a slow beginning, once it gets started it really moves along. I was often reluctant to put it down. Though there is some magic, I like that the story is more about paranormal creatures than it is about magic. I like the fact that Drew inspires loyalty in those around him, NOT because he the long lost son of the old king, but because of his character. For a young boy thrown into a fantastical situation, he really is very level headed. The contrast between his level headed down to earth character and the haughty spoiled nature of Gretchen works well. Though, Jobling could have worked a little more on the growth of Gretchen’s character. Gretchen aside (and I think we will see her grow more in future books), the characters seem very well developed. There is nothing flat about this book at all.

The only thing that concerned me just a little is that the back of the ARC states that the intended audience is ages 10 and up. To me the story seems a little older – perhaps for teens. It’s a very clean story, perhaps a little scary with some of the creatures. Somehow it just seems as though the story is for an older audience.

The back of the ARC also includes a quote from The Times (London) – “Superior to Eragon, and pure fun.” I liked Eragon. But you know? I think I agree with The Times.

This book is scheduled for release in September 2011. Book two: Rage of Lions is scheduled for release in 2012.

Bumped by Megan McCafferty

2011-05-17T09:23:00.000-07:00

Summary from Good Reads:

When a virus makes everyone over the age of eighteen infertile, would-be parents are forced to pay teen girls to conceive and give birth to their children, making teens the most prized members of society.

Sixteen-year-old identical twins Melody and Harmony were separated at birth and had never met until the day Harmony shows up on Melody’s doorstep. Until now, the twins have followed completely opposite paths. Melody has scored an enviable conception contract with a couple called the Jaydens. While they are searching for the perfect partner for Melody to bump with, she is fighting her attraction to her best friend Zen, who is way too short for the job.

Harmony has spent her whole life in religious Goodside, preparing to be a wife and mother. She believes her calling is to bring Melody back to Goodside and convince her that “pregging” for profit is a sin. But Harmony has secrets of her own that she is running from.

When Melody is finally matched with the world-famous, genetically flawless Jondoe, both girls’ lives are changed forever. A case of mistaken identity takes them on a journey neither could have ever imagined, one that makes Melody and Harmony realize they have so much more than just DNA in common.

I wanted to like this book, but I didn't. I wanted to stop reading, but I didn't. I'm not really sure why I kept reading. Wishful thinking? This was a hard book for me. The concept was interesting, but somehow it just didn't live up to my expectations. Though to be honest I'm not really sure what those expectations were.

It's a dystopian young adult novel, which is something I normally enjoy reading. In the interest of fairness, maybe as a parent, I couldn't get past the disturbing concept of a society that not only encourages teen pregnancy, but pays for it! That combined with the sad fact that I didn't really care for any of the characters made this a very disappointing read. I found Melody and Harmony to be confusing. I understand that they didn't know each other, but I didn't feel like they really knew themselves. Sometimes, characters who are searching for self understanding can create a good story, but in this case they just come across as flat and underdeveloped.

Another thing that bothered me was the lack of adults. In a world where everyone turns infertile after the age of 18, I would expect there at least to be some adults who would be extremely protective of children and teens. I know it's a dystopian teen centered society, but surely there could have been one semi-reasonable adult. Harmony's ability to just leave her ultra religious community didn't ring true as well.

I'll admit that I'm curious to see how the story ends, but I'm not sure I'm curious enough to spend my valuable reading time reading any more books in this series.

I Shall Wear Midnight by Terry Pratchett - Repost

2011-05-13T12:51:00.000-07:00

Summary: It starts with whispers.
Then someone picks up a stone.
Finally, the fires begin.
When people turn on witches, the innocents suffer. . . .
Tiffany Aching has spent years studying with senior witches, and now she is on her own. As the witch of the Chalk, she performs the bits of witchcraft that aren't sparkly, aren't fun, don't involve any kind of wand, and that people seldom ever hear about: She does the unglamorous work of caring for the needy.
But someone or something is igniting fear, inculcating dark thoughts and angry murmurs against witches. Aided by her tiny blue allies, the Wee Free Men, Tiffany must find the source of this unrest and defeat the evil at its root before it takes her life. Because if Tiffany falls, the whole Chalk falls with her.

The Tiffany Aching series is one of my favorite young adult series. The fourth installment in the series I Shall Wear Midnight is an excellent read. It was like meeting up with a good friend you had not seen in some time. I find it very sad that this is the last in the series. Though Tiffany would be the first to admit that she's not perfect, she comes about as close as you can get. It's hard to believe that she is only 16 years old. She has wisdom beyond her years, which is why I suppose, she is a witch. Tiffany and the Mac Nac Feegles and Granny Weatherax and Nanny Ogg will be greatly missed.

This story is somewhat darker than the other Tiffany books. It explores the worst of human nature. The writing and imagery are very powerful and will have the reader examining their own actions and thoughts.

I highly recommend this and the other Tiffany Aching books (you really should read them in order) for any young adult (or old adult) that enjoys fantasy and books that make them think.

Randam Acts of Kindness - May

2011-05-05T12:30:00.000-07:00

Random Acts of Kindness is hosted by Book Soulmates and is a fun way to show other book bloggers you care! Here are the rules:

• Sign up each month that you'd like to participate.

• Show off your participation by grabbing our RAK button :)

• Create a wish list (on Amazon, Goodreads, or your blog etc) and post it in the Google Doc located in each R.A.K post for the month.

• If you choose to do a R.A.K for someone, check out their wish list and contact that blogger for their address.

• At the end of the month, SHOW US YOUR R.A.K!

Make a post saying 'Thank You' to whoever granted one of your wishes and share it with us :)

I've signed up for R.A.K. again this month! Last month, I sent out one book. I hope to send out more this month, once I finish paying for the school window my 13 year old hooligan broke. (He knows I love him.)

My wishlist is up on Amazon.com and I am lucky number 71 on the list. I'm looking forward to combing through the sign-up and finding more people to share some book love with.

ARC: Grace Interrupted by Julie Hyzy

2011-05-03T09:39:00.000-07:00


Cover From Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Grace-Interrupted-Manor-House-Mystery/dp/0425241904/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1304438546&sr=1-1

This is the second book in The Manor House Mystery series. It takes place in a large manor house in Emberstowne, one of those quaint touristy towns. The heroine, Grace Wheaton, is just beginning to find her bearings as the new curator of Marshfield Manor when the arrival of a large group of Civil War re-enactors throws a spanner in the works. The murder of one of their number implicates Grace's love interest Jack, and it's up to Grace (with the help of her annoying, but very competent assistant, Francis) to clear his name.

I received an Advance Reader's Copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

Having read and thoroughly enjoyed Grace Under Pressure, I had been eagerly awaiting this second book. I was not disappointed. Grace Interrupted is every bit as well written and enjoyable as the first book.

I find the characters, especially Grace to be very well developed. (Though, if you want to know about Grace's past, you really should read the first book). Grace is much like her name - she has a sense of elegance and "grace" that permeates the whole story. The way she handle's Francis is just amazing. You can feel her frustration, but she tries not to let it show. I do not like Francis, but she's one of those characters that you "love to hate." And who knows maybe she'll grow on me as the series grows. We don't see as much as some of the other supporting characters (Bennett or Grace's two roommates), but that's OK. We get to see a positive side of Francis and I'm sure we will learn more about the other characters as the series progresses.

The pace of the story is just perfect for a cozy mystery. Never too slow or too fast. One of the things that I enjoyed about both books is that I feel that I can relax while reading, yet stay engaged. It's very much like visiting with an old friend.

This is certainly one of my top favorite cozy mystery series. If you like cozy mysteries, with just a touch of old manor elegance, I highly recommend you give this one a try.

The Baker Street Letters

2011-05-03T05:58:00.000-07:00

The Baker Street Letters by Michael Robertson

Good Reads Summary:

In Los Angeles, a geological surveyor maps out a proposed subway route--and then goes missing. His eight-year-old daughter, in her desperation, turns to the one person she thinks might help--she writes a letter to Sherlock Holmes.

That letter creates an uproar at 221b Baker Street, which now houses the law offices of attorney and man about town Reggie Heath and his hapless brother, Nigel. Instead of filing the letter like he’s supposed to, Nigel decides to investigate. Soon he’s flying off to Los Angeles, inconsiderately leaving a very dead body on the floor in his office. Big brother Reggie follows Nigel to California, as does Reggie’s sometime lover, Laura---a quick-witted stage actress who’s captured the hearts of both brothers.

When Nigel is arrested, Reggie must use all his wits to solve a case that Sherlock Holmes would have savored and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle fans will adore.

The premise for this book had such great potential, unfortunately the writing just didn't meet that great potential. I found the actual story to be very boring. Clues appeared in awkward places. I'm surprised that I actually finished the book as I found that I not only did not care for the characters or really about the solution to the mystery. I was very disappointed as I was hoping for a good contemporary mystery with a tie-in to Sherlock Holmes.

ARC Crunch Time by Diane Mott Davidson

2011-04-28T13:32:00.000-07:00

Not the most flattering picture of me, but I love that I'm standing next to one of my favorite authors.

I always look forward to a new Goldy adventure. This one didn't disappoint. For me it was a quick, engaging read.

After reading this book I was surprised at the number of negative reviews this book received. Sometimes I wonder if I am reading the same book as others. But readers have different tastes and expectations, especially mystery readers.

This is why I liked the book:

Though the series often deals with very serious issues (domestic abuse, being just one example), the tone of the books, including this one, is generally light and the entertainment level is high. Over the years I've come to really like Goldy and her supporting characters. Yes, sometimes I have to suspend disbelief when Goldy's police officer husband, reacts very calmly to some of the scrapes she gets involved in - and yes much of what Goldy does is rather unbelievable - not what you would expect of a real person. But unless, you are reading a police procedural or a P.I. novel, the characters, including law enforcement are not going to behave as real people would.

Ms. Davidson always includes enough twists and turns so that I find I have to work to solve the puzzle before Goldy. I like to be challenged. I also like that even though the puzzle may be challenging, the solution never seems to just come out of left field.

I will say that once Goldy finally got away from "The Jerk" and became more sure of herself, her character seemed to even out - as far as terms of growing. Gold is Goldy, but without giving anything away, it looks as though Davidson has some changes in store for our favorite caterer.

I do have to admit that Gold can be somewhat of a helicopter mom when it comes to Arch, but she's getting better about giving him some freedom. In fact one of the criticisms I read about this book was that she gives him too much freedom. While all the danger was happening, Goldy didn't seem concerned that he was not at home, but always at friend's house. As the mother of a teen who drives, I can appreciate that sometimes, even though you would prefer they be at home, you'll take knowing where there are over fighting with them about them not being home and not knowing where they are. Goldy always seems to know where Arch is.

And of course, the recipes are always an added bonus. Over the years I've made several of her recipes. My favorite is a cookie recipe from The Main Corpse. I tried to make Crunch Time cookies (she gave us a sample at the book signing), but I can't figure out what to do with the pecans after I've toasted them, chopped them and then set them aside. I thought perhaps since I was given an ARC from the Amazon Vine program, perhaps there was a misprint in the recipe. I checked Harper Collins's website which has the recipe listed - and I still can't figure out what to do with the pecans. I've sent Ms. Davidson a message on Facebook. Hopefully, I'll find out soon. My family is looking forward to the cookies.

Speaking of this book being an ARC. When I went to the book signing at one of our local Barnes and Nobles here in Colorado Springs, I was a little embarrassed that I wasn't buying a book. Instead I was taking in an ARC to have signed. I usually make it a point to purchase at least one book at a book signing since the store went to all the trouble to host the author. But my budget is tight since we have to pay a huge sum of money to have a school window broken by youngest teen. If I were Goldy, I could just offer to cater a lunch or something.

Turns out that Ms. Davidson was a little embarrassed that I had an ARC as well - not because she was expecting me to buy the book, but because the ARC had so many mistakes (I hadn't tried to make the cookies yet, so I didn't ask her about that.) Embarrassed or not, I'm still very happy to have the signed ARC. I have a couple of other finished hard covers signed by her. She's an author I was try to see when they are in town. But this ARC is special because it was sent to me to be reviewed. I'm not sure that makes sense to anyone but me - maybe I need one of Goldy's Espressos.

This review has turned into quite a ramble. In my humble opinion, this is an enjoyable book. If you like cozy mysteries, especially ones about food, you really must try these. I'm looking forward to what happens in the next one.

If Books Could Kill by Kate Carlisle

2011-04-20T13:09:00.000-07:00

Amazon Product Description

Murder is easy-on paper.

Book restoration expert Brooklyn Wainwright is attending the world- renowned Book Fair when her ex Kyle shows up with a bombshell. He has an original copy of a scandalous text that could change history-and humiliate the beloved British monarchy.

When Kyle turns up dead, the police are convinced Brooklyn's the culprit. But with an entire convention of suspects, Brooklyn's conducting her own investigation to find out if the motive for murder was a 200-year-old secret-or something much more personal.

This is the second book in this series. It's a quick and enjoyable read. Just perfect for a lazy spring or summer afternoon of reading. I was drawn to this series because it deals with books. I tend to enjoy almost any series with a book or literary theme. This one revolves around the world of book binding and collectible books.

This is a well crafted cozy mystery. Though part of a series, it is easily readable without having read the first one. Though, reading Homicide in Hardcover will give you a better sense of the humor surrounding some of the characters in Brooklyn's life.

If you enjoy cozy mysteries and are looking for a light, quick read, you should give this book (and the series) a try.

ARC Review: The Midnight Palace by Carlos Ruiz Zafon

2011-04-18T08:50:00.000-07:00

Book Cover from Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Midnight-Palace-Carlos-Ruiz-Zafon/dp/0316044733/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1303140818&sr=8-1

FTC Disclosure: I received an ARC of this book from the publisher in the hopes that I would provide a review. I did not receive any compensation for my review.

Product Description from Amazon

In the heart of Calcutta lurks a dark mystery....
Set in Calcutta in the 1930s, The Midnight Palace begins on a dark night when an English lieutenant fights to save newborn twins Ben and Sheere from an unthinkable threat. Despite monsoon-force rains and terrible danger lurking around every street corner, the young lieutenant manages to get them to safety, but not without losing his own life. . . .

Years later, on the eve of Ben and Sheere's sixteenth birthday, the mysterious threat reenters their lives. This time, it may be impossible to escape. With the help of their brave friends, the twins will have to take a stand against the terror that watches them in the shadows of the night--and face the most frightening creature in the history of the City of Palaces.

This book did not have the passion and exciting pace that I normally find in young adult books. I've seen it listed in a few places as part of the series with The Prince of Mist. That might explain why I often felt as though I was missing a great deal of the story. This book just didn't interest me. I had to force myself to finish and based on the reading habits of the teens that I provide Reader's Advisory for - I'm afraid they would feel the same way.

Some of the "story telling" by characters was just too long. The author seemed to have spent more time just throwing in details without truly connecting them to the story. The characters felt underdeveloped as well. It was difficult to make a connection with the characters in order to care about what happened to them.

I had considered reading The Prince of Mist in hopes that it would help me understand this story better. However, my to read list is too long to add a book when it is questionable that it would be enjoyable to me or my patrons.

Giveaway: Addicted 2 Novels

2011-04-18T08:01:00.000-07:00

Book Strings: Giveaway: Addicted 2 Novels: "Where: Addicted 2 Novels Whats up for grabs: Prize Pack 1- &nbsp..."

Book Strings posted about an AWESOME Giveway from Addicted to Novels. Click on the link to check it out and be sure to browse the blog while you are it.

Whats up for grabs:
       Prize Pack 1-
                *Suddenly In The Depths of the Forest (arc)
                *Rip Tide (arc)
                *The Vespertine (arc)
                *The Dead-Tossed Waves (UK Ed. w/signed book plate)
                *Extraordinary (arc)
                *Across The Universe (w/signed bookplate)

   ***US Only***

    Prize Pack 2-
               *Abandon (arc)
               *Wrapped (arc)
               *The Lipstick Laws (arc)
               *See What I See (arc)
               *Jenna and Jonah's Fauxmance
               *Purple Daze

   ***US Only***

$10 Book of Choice (US, CA and international):
*One person will win any YA book of their choice (up to $10) from the Book Depository.

Timeline: Now-May 7

Required: Follow Addicted 2 Novels Fill out the form on their blog.

Plain Kate by Erin Bow

2011-04-16T06:13:00.000-07:00

Book Cover from Amazon http://www.amazon.com/Plain-Kate-Erin-Bow/dp/product-description/0545166640/ref=dp_proddesc_0?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books

Product Description

Plain Kate lives in a world of superstitions and curses, where a song can heal a wound and a shadow can work deep magic. As the wood-carver's daughter, Kate held a carving knife before a spoon, and her wooden charms are so fine that some even call her "witch-blade" -- a dangerous nickname in a town where witches are hunted and burned in the square.For Kate and her village have fallen on hard times. Kate's father has died, leaving her alone in the world. And a mysterious fog now covers the countryside, ruining crops and spreading fear of hunger and sickness. The townspeople are looking for someone to blame, and their eyes have fallen on Kate.

Enter Linay, a stranger with a proposition: In exchange for her shadow, he'll give Kate the means to escape the town that seems set to burn her, and what's more, he'll grant her heart's wish. It's a chance for her to start over, to find a home, a family, a place to belong. But Kate soon realizes that she can't live shadowless forever -- and that Linay's designs are darker than she ever dreamed.

First, I have to say that Bow created a character that I cared about and a story that I wanted to follow to the end. However, the book failed to live up to the story's potential. I found the pacing of the story to be too slow. The beginning spark of the story seemed to just die away. It was hard for me to finish this story. I have a rule about life being too short to finish books you don't have to read. I stuck it out with this book because I did care about Kate and wanted to know how her story ended.

The ending was the best part of the book - not because it was the ending, but because I didn't see it coming. Though not a happy ending, it is one where the right things happen.

The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield - Book Club Read

2011-04-15T14:41:00.000-07:00

Book Cover from Amaxon http://www.amazon.com/Thirteenth-Tale-Novel-Diane-Setterfield/dp/0743298039/ref=dp_return_2?ie=UTF8&n=283155&s=books

Amazon Product Description

Sometimes, when you open the door to the past, what you confront is your destiny. Reclusive author Vida Winter, famous for her collection of twelve enchanting stories, has spent the past six decades penning a series of alternate lives for herself. Now old and ailing, she is ready to reveal the truth about her extraordinary existence and the violent and tragic past she has kept secret for so long. Calling on Margaret Lea, a young biographer troubled by her own painful history, Vida disinters the life she meant to bury for good. Margaret is mesmerized by the author's tale of gothic strangeness -- featuring the beautiful and willful Isabelle, the feral twins Adeline and Emmeline, a ghost, a governess,a topiary garden and a devastating fire. Together, Margaret and Vida confront the ghosts that have haunted them while becoming, finally, transformed by the truth themselves.

This was a re-read for me. I first read this book shortly after it was published. I enjoyed it immensely and was thrilled when my book club picked it for the April read. This is certainly one book that I don't mind re-reading.

The Thirteenth Tale is a dark, gothic, rainy afternoon read. And yes, it does have a certain creepy factor - somewhat reminiscent of V. C. Andrews. It is not a quick read - not a fast paced thriller, but I did find it to be a compelling read - hard to put down. Setterfield's prose is beautifully descriptive. The ending is wonderfully unpredictable! If you enjoy books by the Bronte sisters, this a book for you.

I'm curious to hear what the members of my book club think.

Promise Me by Nancy Brinker - A Review

2011-04-13T19:35:00.000-07:00

Promise Me : How A Sister’s Love Launched the Global Movement to End Breast Cancer by Nancy G. Brinker with Joni Rodgers

I received an ARC of this book through Amazon Vine.

Product Description from Amazon:

Suzy and Nancy Goodman were more than sisters. They were best friends, confidantes, and partners in the grand adventure of life. For three decades, nothing could separate them. Not college, not marriage, not miles. Then Suzy got sick. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 1977; three agonizing years later, at thirty-six, she died.

It wasn’t supposed to be this way. The Goodman girls were raised in postwar Peoria, Illinois, by parents who believed that small acts of charity could change the world. Suzy was the big sister—the homecoming queen with an infectious enthusiasm and a generous heart. Nancy was the little sister—the tomboy with an outsized sense of justice who wanted to right all wrongs. The sisters shared makeup tips, dating secrets, plans for glamorous fantasy careers. They spent one memorable summer in Europe discovering a big world far from Peoria. They imagined a long life together—one in which they’d grow old together surrounded by children and grandchildren.
Suzy’s diagnosis shattered that dream.

In 1977, breast cancer was still shrouded in stigma and shame. Nobody talked about early detection and mammograms. Nobody could even say the words “breast” and “cancer” together in polite company, let alone on television news broadcasts. With Nancy at her side, Suzy endured the many indignities of cancer treatment, from the grim, soul-killing waiting rooms to the mistakes of well-meaning but misinformed doctors. That’s when Suzy began to ask Nancy to promise. To promise to end the silence. To promise to raise money for scientific research. To promise to one day cure breast cancer for good. Big, shoot-for-the-moon promises that Nancy never dreamed she could fulfill. But she promised because this was her beloved sister.
I promise, Suzy. . . . Even if it takes the rest of my life.

Suzy’s death—both shocking and senseless—created a deep pain in Nancy that never fully went away. But she soon found a useful outlet for her grief and outrage. Armed only with a shoebox filled with the names of potential donors, Nancy put her formidable fund-raising talents to work and quickly discovered a groundswell of grassroots support. She was aided in her mission by the loving tutelage of her husband, restaurant magnate Norman Brinker, whose dynamic approach to entrepreneurship became Nancy’s model for running her foundation. Her account of how she and Norman met, fell in love, and managed to achieve the elusive “true marriage of equals” is one of the great grown-up love stories among recent memoirs.

Nancy’s mission to change the way the world talked about and treated breast cancer took on added urgency when she was herself diagnosed with the disease in 1984, a terrifying chapter in her life that she had long feared. Unlike her sister, Nancy survived and went on to make Susan G. Komen for the Cure into the most influential health charity in the country and arguably the world. A pioneering force in cause-related marketing, SGK turned the pink ribbon into a symbol of hope everywhere. Each year, millions of people worldwide take part in SGK Race for the Cure events. And thanks to the more than $1.5 billion spent by SGK for cutting-edge research and community programs, a breast cancer diagnosis today is no longer a death sentence. In fact, in the time since Suzy’s death, the five-year survival rate for breast cancer has risen from 74 percent to 98 percent.

I had three reasons for reading this book.

I’m currently going through treatment for breast cancer. I have another blog (In The Pink) about my experience and I'm reading as much material related to breast cancer as I can.
I’m a Zeta Alum. The Susan G. Koman Race for the Cure is very important to our women’s fraternity.
I received an ARC from the Amazon Vine review program – however this book was already on my to read list. Receiving it for review just moved it up to the top of the list.

One thing to keep in mind: if you are looking for an actual history of the Susan G. Koman Race For The Cure, then you should look elsewhere. This book is about Nancy Brinker and what motivated her to launch an all out global movement to end breast cancer. To understand the motivation and love behind the movement, you have to understand Nancy. This book does an excellent job in detailing what makes Nancy who she is and why finding an end to breast cancer is so paramount to her.

I found the book to be very inspirational, well written and hard to put down. It’s not an easy read. You might want to keep a box of tissues handy. Even though I knew that her sister Susan died from breast cancer, I still found myself crying when I reached that point in the book. I also found myself moved by the vignettes scattered throughout the book that detailed the battles others have fought. The vignettes also included information on the history of breast cancer treatment. I found them to be both horrifying and enlightening.

There is a great deal of information included in this book. It is presented in an easily read manner with interesting details and insights into the main players. If you enjoy memoirs or if you have any connection to breast cancer I highly recommend this book.

On a more personal note: Until I was diagnosed with it, breast cancer was always something that I was vaguely aware of – I supported the awareness campaigns. I did my monthly self exams. Yet, it was something that was just slightly outside my own life. My diagnoses made it a big part of my life. I always thought that the Susan G. Koman Race for the Cure was a worthwhile organization. After reading this book, I now realize that I may very well owe my life to Nancy Brinker and SGK. I’m a benefactor of early detection. Their dedication over the years have pulled breast cancer from the far recesses of a dark closet, shown a light own on it and brought the fight out into the open.

Wicked Awesome Books: Win the entire Mortal Instruments series SIGNED by...

2011-04-12T11:45:00.000-07:00

Wicked Awesome Books: Win the entire Mortal Instruments series SIGNED by...: "Here it is. The super awesome, uber crazy, giveaway of WIN! One lucky person will win the entire MORTAL INSTRUMENTS series thus far: City of..."

I stopped by Wicked Awesome Books because of they are giving away the entire Mortal Instruments series. However, the real treat is the blog itself. You should check it out.

24 Hour Read-A-thon - April 9th

2011-04-09T05:18:00.000-07:00

I came to the party late, but thought I'd give it a shot anyway. I am up and ready to READ READ READ today - even though I'm feeling very groggy this morning. My doctor prescribed Ambien and I took it for the first time last night. I think I would rather just wake up tired (or just get up and read when I can't sleep) than wake up feeling fuzzy headed.

If you want more info on the Read-A-Thon check out Dewey Read A Thon site. I don't really have a game plan. I have two books I'd like to finish The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield for book club and a If Books Could Kill by Kate Carlisle. There are plenty of other books waiting in the wings once these are finished. (Now, let's hope a cup of coffee with sweep out the Ambien cobwebs and I can actually enjoy some good reading time.)

http://www.amazon.com/If-Books-Could-Kill-Bibliophile/dp/045122891X/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1302351356&sr=1-1

http://www.amazon.com/Thirteenth-Tale-Diane-Setterfield/dp/0743298020

Review: Matched by Ally Condi

2011-04-06T12:10:00.000-07:00

Cover from Amazon (http://www.amazon.com/Matched-Ally-Condie/dp/0525423648/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1302102758&sr=8-1-spell)

In Cassia’s world “The Society” has created the perfect world. There is no cancer, really no disease of any kind. There is little crime. There is no drama. Nothing is left to chance because there is no personal choice. The Officials decide what everyone will eat, what jobs they will have and whom they will marry – and in some cases whether or not they will marry. The Officials collect data on everyone (very Big Brotherish) and have determined the optimal (and likely) outcomes for everything. No one is “burdened” with having to make a choice. Cassia is perfectly happy with the way things are – at least in the beginning. Everyone is safe. She truly believes in The Society, until after her match banquet when she is matched with her best friend. However, the following day when reviewing her Match data card, she sees a different boy’s face pop up on the screen. This unheard of mistake sets Cassia on a dangerous path – one that will have consequences for everyone she holds dear.

I listened to this book on audio. It was a fabulous read. It reminded of one of my all time favorite books: Lois Lowry’s The Giver. A comparison of the two would make an interesting school reading assignment.

Based on all the reviews I have read of this book, it appears this is one of those books that you either love or hate. Some people think it’s too much live The Giver. Others don’t like that Cassia doesn’t question enough. Still others don’t like the pacing – it doesn’t have enough action.

I like the similarity to The Giver. I found the pacing fits well with the story.

When the story first began I was struck by the fact that Cassia seems much younger than 17. On reflection, that makes sense. If you lived in a society that controlled everything you did, you might not mature as fast as you would in a society where you had to make choices, especially choices with consequences.

It is true there is not a great deal of action in this story. If you like the thrill of The Hunger Games, this might not be the read for you. This book is rather more introspective. Condi has created likable characters that I want to learn more about. There are many questions still to be answered. I found that to be part of the book’s charm. The reader has the same questions that Cassia is only just beginning to ask herself.

I understand this is the first book in what will be a trilogy. I’m looking forward to reading the other books.

Random Acts of Kindness

2011-04-04T07:05:00.000-07:00

Have you seen this awesome RAK event hosted by Isalys and Vanessa over at Book ♥ Soulmates? I think it's a great idea and I can't wait to do a few RAK's for April!!
Here's the info, go to Book ♥ Soulmates if you'd like to sign up!

Rules from Book ♥ Soulmates

• Sign up each month you'd like to participate in.
• Show off your participation! Grab one of the buttons available :)
• Create a wish list and post it in the Google Doc located in each R.A.K post for the month.{Post on your blog, Amazon, where ever as long as there's a link to it.}
• If you choose to do a R.A.K for someone, check out their wish list and contact that blogger for their address.
• At the end of the month, SHOW US YOUR R.A.K!Make a post saying 'Thank You' to whoever granted one of your wishes and share it with us :)
OPEN TO EVERYONE!Let's keep our International bloggers in mind and in our hearts.Remember, there's always the Book Depository and they offer FREE shipping!

My Dear I Wanted To Tell You by Louisa Young - ARC Review

2011-03-31T09:48:00.000-07:00

I received a free copy of My Dear I Wanted To Tell You by Louisa Young through Amazon's Vine program.

Young's story revolves around four main characters, Nadine and Riley, a young couple in love and Peter and Julia, a young married couple. The setting is during WWI England/France and the main focus of the story seems to be about how the war impacts them individually and their relationships as well.

I wanted to like this story. WWI and WWII Fiction is a genre I truly enjoy. However, I had a hard time with the book from the beginning. It was convoluted, as though the author wasn't too sure of where she was going with the story. The characters had great potential, but were not as well developed as they could have been. Therefore, I felt like I was missing something through much of the book. Often the story did not flow smoothly.

One positive aspect of the book is that I did like the story concept. Even though I felt the author did not fully develop the characters, I did find myself caring about them and wanting to know what happened to them. This could be an excellent book with a little more polish.

However, since there are so many well written novels in this genre, this is not one that I would recommend to a reader looking for a new read.

Saturday Snapshot - March 26th

2011-03-26T16:16:00.000-07:00

Saturday Snapshot is a weekly meme hosted by Alyce, from At Home With Books. All we have to do is post a favorite photo we've snapped, or one captured by family or friends. (No internet poaching.)

I've been wanting to visit the Cadet Chapel for quite some time. We've lived in Colorado Springs for almost five years and finally, today, we made it out to the Chapel. We were actually headed for a long hike, but took time out to visit and photograph the Chapel. It's quite beautiful.

Pikes Peak Library District - Mountain of Authors

2011-03-26T05:42:00.000-07:00

Pikes Peak Library District will host the 5th Annual Mountain of Authors on Saturday, April 2nd at East Library. The keynote speaker is Jerry B. Jenkins, author of the Left Behind series. For more information and a list of authors who will be attending click here.

Triple ARC Giveaway over at Musings + Teen Librarian

2011-03-25T07:19:00.000-07:00

::Musings + Teen Librarian::: Triple ARC Giveaway!: "Hi everyone! This morning I was on the local news station’s morning show and got to talk about why reading is important for teens, popular t..."

Check out this great chance to win some teen ARCs and while you are it, check out the blog as well. If you enjoy young adult/teen books, you'll want to follow this blog.

I Am J by Cris Beam - ARC Review

2011-03-24T10:07:00.000-07:00

I received an Advanced Reader's Copy of I am J by Cris Beam. I did not receive any compensation for my review.

Summary: "Hola, Jeni."

J spun. His stomach clenched hard, as though he'd been hit. It was just the neighbor lady, Mercedes. J couldn't muster a hello back, not now; he didn't care that she'd tell his mom he'd been rude. She should know better. Nobody calls me Jeni anymore.
J always felt different. He was certain that eventually everyone would understand who he really was: a boy mistakenly born as a girl. Yet as he grew up, his body began to betray him; eventually J stopped praying to wake up a "real boy" and started covering up his body, keeping himself invisible - from his family, from his friends...from the world. But after being deserted by the best friend he thought would always be by his side, J decides that he's done hiding - it's time to be who he really is. And this time he is determined not to give up, no matter the cost.

I Am J is a very intense and engaging read about a bi-racial teen's gender transition. Beam's story provides great insight to life a transgender teen. This is an issue that prior to reading this book I did not know much about. Fortunately, as well as writing an engaging story, Beam also takes the time to explain the issues.

However, I was puzzled about why J, who has known since a small child that he is a boy born with girl parts, waited until he was 18 to seek support. All in all I found this to be well written, with well developed characters. Though the main story deals with J's life as a transgender teen, it also covers all the usual challenges of just being a teen - including difficulty getting a long with parents. J's parents are not very likable. Not only do they not understand J, they seem incapable of giving him any support. Perhaps this lends to the authenticity of the story, as teens are often misunderstood by their parents.

This is a good read for not only teens but parents as well. Not only is it entertaining, but it provides some valuable insight as well.

Click here for more information on the author.

You Know When The Men Are Gone by Siobhan Fallon

2011-03-23T09:46:00.000-07:00

GoodReads Summary:

"In Fort Hood housing, like all army housing, you get used to hearing through the walls... You learn too much. And you learn to move quietly through your own small domain. You also know when the men are gone. No more boots stomping above, no more football games turned up too high, and, best of all, no more front doors slamming before dawn as they trudge out for their early formation, sneakers on metal stairs, cars starting, shouts to the windows above to throw them down their gloves on cold desert mornings. Babies still cry, telephones ring, Saturday morning cartoons screech, but without the men, there is a sense of muted silence, a sense of muted life.

There is an army of women waiting for their men to return in Fort Hood, Texas. Through a series of loosely interconnected stories, Siobhan Fallon takes readers onto the base, inside the homes, into the marriages and families-intimate places not seen in newspaper articles or politicians' speeches.

When you leave Fort Hood, the sign above the gate warns, You've Survived the War, Now Survive the Homecoming. It is eerily prescient."

This was a hard book for me to read.

I was drawn to this book, in hopes that it would not be a political condemnation of the military. It wasn't.

The stories were emotionally engaging and very well written. I really wanted to like this book, and deep down a part of me did.

However, as a military wife, I'm tired of stories that only show the down side of military life. That is not to say that I only want to read Pollyanna like stories were all is well and everyone gets a long. I just want to see a more balanced story. Perhaps I should just right my own.

What I do like about this book is that while the stories do not necessarily show the life of an Army wife in the most positive light, they are realistic. Having gone through a number of times "when the men are gone", I have seen many situations like those described in the stories.

If you are looking for a political statement on the military or the war, this is not the book for you. If you are looking a feel good book about military life, this is not the book for you. If, however, you are looking for a well written, emotionally engaging glimpse into just some of the challenges our military families face, then you should read this book.

As I said this was hard book for me to read. I'm glad I did and I've even added it to my wish list. However, I'm not sure I will recommend it to my fellow Army wives.

Teaser Tuesday - March 22

2011-03-22T18:43:00.000-07:00

I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore (e-book)

I think they are planning to kill the humans. I think they want to make Earth their permanent home.

Saturday Snapshot - March 19th

2011-03-19T13:14:00.000-07:00

Saturday Snapshot is a weekly meme hosted by Alyce, from At Home With Books. All we have to do is post a favorite photo we've snapped, or one captured by family or friends. (No internet poaching.)

I have a couple of metal buckets that I keep for photo shoots and for icing down drinks when we have BBQs. For some reason our cat, Olivia, is fascinated with crawling inside the buckets. Usually, by the time I grab my camera, she's noticed me and jumps out. Finally, earlier this week, I managed to snap a photo before she jumped out.

Book Beginnings on Friday (a day late) March 19

2011-03-19T04:04:00.000-07:00

How to participate: Share the first line (or two) of the book you are currently reading on your blog or in the comments. Include the title and the author so we know what you're reading. Then, if you feel so moved, let us know what your first impressions were based on that first line, and let us know if you liked or did not like the sentence. This weekly meme is hosted by A Few More Pages every Friday. Check out their blog for a list of other book beginnings.

You Know When the Men Are Gone by Siobhan Fallon

"In Fort Hood housing, like all army housing, you get used to hearing through the walls. You learn your neighbor's routines: when and if they gargle and brush their teeth; how often they go to the bathroom or shower; whether they snore or cry themselves to sleep. You learn too much. And you learn to move quietly through your own domain.

You also know when the men are gone. No more boots stomping above, no more football games urned up to high, and, best of all no more front doors slamming before dawn as they trudge out for their early formation, sneakers on metal stairs, cars starting, shouts to the windows above to throw down their gloves on cold desert mornings. Babies still cry, telephones ring. Saturday morning cartoons screech, but with the men, there is a sense of muted silences, a sense of muted life."

The title of this book is what caught my attention. The first few pages are what made me sure I wanted to read it. As an Army Wife, one previously stationed at Ft. Hood, I'm interested to see where Fallon will take this story.

B.O.O.B.S - A Book Review

2011-03-18T13:24:00.000-07:00

B.O.O.B.S A Bunch of Outrageous Breast-Cancer Survivors Tell Their Stories of Courage, Hope, and Healing compiled & edited by Ann Kempner Fisher

Summary:

They are not just statistics or case studies, nor are they "genetic mishaps." They are everyday modern women struggling to survive breast cancer. They share the same diagnosis but are a crazy-quilt of many patterns and colors, with ages spanning twenty-five years. Some of them are wives and mothers, grandmothers, and great-grandmothers; some are single, some are divorced. They have different religious backgrounds, different occupations, different lifestyles, different values, and different treatments. But despite their differences, they all areB.O.O.B.S.

B.O.O.B.S. shares the personal experiences of ten courageous women—from shocking diagnosis to surgery and beyond—and the effect breast cancer has had on them and on the people in their lives. Brought together by the Wellness Community, a program offering cost-free psychological support to cancer patients and their loved ones, the ten women in this book strongly believe in the healing power of group therapy and peer sharing. Some of them have even become patient advocates and spokeswomen in a quest to make a difference in the lives of other women coping with breast cancer, a disease that strikes more than 200,000 women every year in the United States.

Written with insight, humor, raw emotion, and honesty, B.O.O.B.S. offers hope to women facing breast cancer. It also offers families and friends insights into what their loved ones are going through.

I found this book very helpful. I am currently going through treatment for breast cancer. I found the stories to be informative and encouraging. They don't sugar coat their experiences. They are honest about the ups and the downs. It was helpful to me to hear the war stories of a group of survivors.

However, if you are looking for survivor stories because you are currently going through treatment or know someone who is there are few things to consider before reading this book.

This is not a book about young women diagnosed with breast cancer. The youngest age at diagnoses is 45. The majority of these women have a particular type of breast cancer: ductal carcinoma. Many, perhaps all of them, are involved with one particular support group: The Wellness Community. If you are looking for stories/experiences that fit certain parameters, this might not be the book for you.

However, the stories are poignant. Regardless of the type of cancer, some of the challenges, fears and frustrations are the same. If you are looking for stories of courage, told with honesty and humor then this is a good read for you.

Exlixer by Hilary Duff

2011-03-17T13:19:00.000-07:00

Elixer by Hilary Duff

Summary: Clea Raymond has felt the glare of the spotlight her entire life. The daughter of a renowned surgeon and a prominent Washington DC politician, she has grown to be a talented photojournalist who takes refuge in a career that allows her to travel to the most exotic parts of the world. But after Clea’s father disappears while on a humanitarian mission, Clea’s photos begin to feature eerie, shadowy images of a strange and beautiful man—a man she has never seen before.

When fate brings Clea and this man together, she is stunned by the immediate and powerful connection she feels with him. As they grow closer, they are drawn deep into the mystery behind her father’s disappearance, and they discover the centuries old truth behind their intense bond. Torn by a dangerous love triangle and haunted by a powerful secret that holds their fates, together they race against time to unravel their pasts in order to save their lives—and their futures.

First, I really enjoyed this book. Yes, I picked up because it was co-written by Hilary Duff and I was curious to see if she could write. But I didn't let that influence me while reading the book. Unfortunately, it seems a number of reviewers who have read this book could not get past the mind set that "oh great another teen celebrity is looking for more attention and more money." Some of the reviews I've read seemed more intent on being downright hateful instead of trying to write a good review. Perhaps they are jealous.

Is this book a great work of literature? No. It's not going to be on the classic reading lists with To Kill A Mockingbird, Jane Eyre, or The Great Gatsby. Is it entertaining? Yes. Is is formulaic (a typical paranormal romance)? Yes. Will young adults enjoy reading it? I believe so, especially if they concentrate on it the story and not its famous author.

I found the story to be well plotted and the characters well developed, though there is still room for growth in each of them. And there are still many unanswered questions - mainly where is Clea's dad. I suspect that this is the first book in a series. Often the first book in the series leaves the reader a little unsatisfied as the author does not want to reveal everything in the first book.

Some reviews have questioned the plausibility of Clea being so famous. Who cares about a senator's daughter? Why would the Japanese even know who she is? How many times have the Kennedy children been tabloid fodder? As for how the Japanese knew who Clea was - the author stated that Clea's and Ben's picture was being flashed on the big screen in the square. They might not have known who she was, but it is not out of the realm of probability for them to notice her in person when her likeness is being flashed all around them and respond accordingly.

Another review complained that Clea falls to quickly for Sage and that's she's too mushy about him. Isn't falling quickly a staple in romances involving a soul mate? And isn't one or both of the soul mates generally mushy about it?

I'm not really sure why the bad reviews I read about this book have rankled me so. I guess if I thought they were actually critiquing the writing and not just expressing jealousy over a celebrity, then I might think their reviews had more validity. If you don't like a story, that's fine, but there's no need to get nasty and bash the author in the process.

Will I recommend this book to my teen readers that enjoy paranormal romances? Yes. If there's another book will I read it? Certainly.

If you'd read this book, I'd love to know what you think.

My Goodreads/Shelfari/Librarything rating for this book: 4 of 5.

Hooked to Books: The Lucky Leprechaun Giveaway Hop is hosted by I A...

2011-03-17T06:41:00.000-07:00

Check out this Lucky Leprechaun Giveaway over at Hooked to Books!

Hooked to Books: The Lucky Leprechaun Giveaway Hop is hosted by I A...: "The Lucky Leprechaun Giveaway Hop is hosted by I Am A Reader, Not a Writer and Books Complete Me! I'm going to do two giveaways here on Hook..."

WWW Wednesdays March 16th

2011-03-16T04:53:00.000-07:00

Hosted by Should Be Reading

To play along, just answer the following three (3) questions…

• What are you currently reading?

• What did you recently finish reading?

• What do you think you’ll read next?

What Are You Currently Reading?

B.O.O.B.S. A Bunch of Outrageous Breast Cancer Survivors Tell Their Stories of Courage, Hope and Healing compiled and edited by Ann Kempner Fisher

I am Jay by Cris Beam

Elixer by Hilary Duff

What Did You Recently Finish Reading?

Delirium by Lauren Oliver

What Do You Think You'll Read Next?

I Am Number Four by Pittacus Lore

Revolution by Jennifer Donnely

2011-03-15T04:58:00.000-07:00

Summary:
BROOKLYN: Andi Alpers is on the edge. She’s angry at her father for leaving, angry at her mother for not being able to cope, and heartbroken by the loss of her younger brother, Truman. Rage and grief are destroying her. And she’s about to be expelled from Brooklyn Heights’ most prestigious private school when her father intervenes. Now Andi must accompany him to Paris for winter break.

PARIS: Alexandrine Paradis lived over two centuries ago. She dreamed of making her mark on the Paris stage, but a fateful encounter with a doomed prince of France cast her in a tragic role she didn’t want—and couldn’t escape.

Two girls, two centuries apart. One never knowing the other. But when Andi finds Alexandrine’s diary, she recognizes something in her words and is moved to the point of obsession. There’s comfort and distraction for Andi in the journal’s antique pages—until, on a midnight journey through the catacombs of Paris, Alexandrine’s words transcend paper and time, and the past becomes suddenly, terrifyingly present.

This is a wonderful genre crossing/switching story. (Starts out as contemporary fiction, slides into historical fiction with a hint at fantasy - time travel.) I was engrossed with Andi and Alexandrine's stories from the first words. Andi is a tortured and musically gifted teen. Alexandrine is a self serving commoner who finds someone other than herself to care about.

Andi's guilt over the death of her brother is palpable. This was an audio read for me. And the book's reader may have had something to do with the impact this book had on me, but I truly believe much of the credit goes to the author. She captured the struggles of both girls perfectly. She has created a compelling story that absolutely grabs the author by the throat and doesn't let go until the end. I have never been that interested in the French Revolution, but after listening to Revolution, I found myself wanting to hit the history books and learn more.

Donnelly's Revolution has received several literary accolades and they are well deserved.

A School Library Journal Best Book of the Year (2010), Odyssey Award for Excellence in Audiobook Production Honor (2011),Goodreads Choice Award Nominee for Young Adult Fiction (2010),YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults (2011), ALA's Top Ten Best Books for Young Adults (2011)

This is one of those rare books that young adults SHOULD read and if they do will enjoy.

Teaser Tuesdays - March 15th

2011-03-15T04:52:00.000-07:00

From Elixer by Hilary Duff

pg. 52

"Then I opened up the tenth photo and screamed out loud.

It was my darkened closet . . . with the man inside the door."

Delirium by Lauren Oliver

2011-03-14T04:32:00.000-07:00

Summary: Before scientists found the cure, people thought love was a good thing. They didn’t understand that once love -- the deliria -- blooms in your blood, there is no escaping its hold. Things are different now. Scientists are able to eradicate love, and the governments demands that all citizens receive the cure upon turning eighteen. Lena Holoway has always looked forward to the day when she’ll be cured. A life without love is a life without pain: safe, measured, predictable, and happy.

But with ninety-five days left until her treatment, Lena does the unthinkable: She falls in love.

I was going to post a review of this book, but now I'm thinking I might wait. I had heard great things about this book. It's a young adult dystopian novel with an interesting concept - the kind of book that I generally enjoy. But, I had a hard time getting into this book. I think part of the problem is that the book was due back at the library last week (I turned in late - my apologies to the next person on the list) and I felt rushed in reading it. So I don't really feel as though I can give it an honest review. The book is haunting me. It's telling me "you didn't give this book your full attention, yet you are already wondering when the next book is going to be out - you're hooked on the story - you know you are!" (Yes, books speak to me, don't they speak to you?)

Because I have given up checking out books for pleasure during Lent (it's a self defense move - an effort to get through all the books I already have checked out from the library - and give others a shot at those I just can't get to right now) I rushed the reading of this book because I knew I couldn't put it back on hold until after Lent. But that's just what I'm going to do - get back on the list - maybe it will be my first summer break read - when I can take a deep breath and give it my full attention.

Have you ever rushed/skimmed through a book and later regret that you didn't give it your full attention? Did you go back later and re-read it?

400 Miles in 2011 Fitness Challenge

2011-03-13T16:36:00.000-07:00

March 13th

I signed up for this challenge, but have not been able to do much with it since I've been recovering from two surgeries related to breast cancer. I have done some walking and some exercise, but I've yet to record my information on the host blog or here. As my strength has been returning I decided I better record my efforts before I forget.

For information on the challenge click here.

January 21 - 1.01 miles

January 25 - 1.11 miles

February 27 - 1.67 miles

March 5th - 2.5 miles

March 6th - 2.51 miles

March 9th - 2 miles

March 10th - 2 miles

Total as of March 12th - 12.81 miles. Not very impressive so far, but it will get better. I'm participating in the June Avon Rocky Mountain Walk for the Cure, the Colorado Springs and Denver sSusan G. Koman Walks for the Cure and I plan to hike up Pikes Peak in August.

I'll be recording my miles on the 400 Miles in 2011 Fitness page of this blog.

Saturday Snapshot (a day late) - March 13th

2011-03-13T06:29:00.000-07:00

It's good to start them reading early.

Book Beginnings on Friday - March 11th

2011-03-11T09:20:00.000-08:00

Delirium by Lauren Oliver

It has been sixty-four years since the president and the Consortium identified love as a disease, and forty three since the scientists perfected a cure. Everyone else in my family has had the procedure already.

A great beginning - rather spooky.

A Chance to Win 5 Wonderful Books

2011-03-11T08:15:00.000-08:00

This is a great giveaway. Hop on over to Beth's blog and check it out.

WWW Wednesdays - March 9th

2011-03-09T14:19:00.000-08:00

Hosted by Should Be Reading

To play along, just answer the following three (3) questions…
• What are you currently reading?
• What did you recently finish reading?
• What do you think you’ll read next?

What Are You Currently Reading?
Delirium by Lauren Oliver

B.O.O.B.S. A Bunch of Outrageous Breast Cancer Survivors Tell Their Stories of Courage, Hope and Healing compiled and edited by Ann Kempner Fisher

I am Jay by Cris Beam

What Did You Finish Reading Recently?

A Deadly Cliche Ellery Adams and Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

What Do You Think You'll Read Next?
Elixer by Hilary Duff

Me: A to Z

2011-03-09T13:42:00.001-08:00

Me...A-Z

I saw this posted on Book Fitness and Other Things and thought it would be fun.

A. Age: 46

B. Bed size: King

C. Chore you dislike: Cleaning House

D. Dogs: two Miniature Schnauzers

E. Essential start to your day: coffee and a morning walk

F. Favorite color: Pink (these days, used to be Engineer Red and before that Hunter Green)

G. Gold or silver: Gold

H. Height: 5' 2" (on a good day)

I. Instruments you play(ed): flute (very badly)

J. Job title: librarian/photographer

K. Kids: 2 boys (three if you count my husband)

L. Live: Colorado

M. Mom’s name: Kathryn

N. Nicknames: Red

O. Overnight hospital stays: Twice for having babies and once for the removal of my gall bladder

P. Pet peeves: People who don’t think school librarians are teachers, too.

Q. Quote from a movie: I think it only fair to warn you, I am in fact a librarian. (From one of Noah Wylie’s Librarian movies. I can’t remember which one.)

R. Righty or lefty: Righty

S. Siblings: One younger ½ sister (but I consider my younger cousins my brother and sister)

T. Time you wake up: Several times during the night, but I usually get up around 5.

U. Underwear: cotton

V. Vegetables you don’t like: lima/butter beans

W.What makes you run late: getting caught up in other things

X. X-rays you’ve had: Several if you count all the mammograms I’ve had since November.

Y. Yummy food you make: Turtle Cake

Ash Wednesday

2011-03-09T06:14:00.000-08:00

It's Ash Wednesday, the first day of Lent. Though my husband is Catholic, I'm not, but I aways give up something for Lent. I try to pick something that has meaning for me. Otherwise, what's the point? I once worked for an attorney who each year for Lent gave up watermelon. He hated watermelon.

Some years I've given up sweets, chocolate, fast food - last year I gave up buying books for myself. That was hard as one of my favorite children's authors did a book signing right in the middle of Lent.

This year I am giving up checking out books from the library, unless it's job related. I often check out books from the public library to supplement the small collection at my school or for teachers who need a particular book that our library doesn't own. I'm also in the process of starting up a photography business, so I'm allowing myself to check out books related to that. But, all those wonderful mysteries, young adult and fantasy novels that I can't resist will have to wait until after Lent.

I patronize two library systems. My local library doesn't allow you to suspend your holds, so I had to delete them all. The library system just down the road in another town, does allow you to suspend your holds, so I've suspended them all until just a few days before Easter. This will allow the books to go to others, but once the suspension date has passed, I will go back on the list in the spot I was when I suspended them.

I'm hoping this will allow me to read all the books I already have checked out. (I can't help it. Every time I see a book I want to read, I don't just put it on my to read list, I request it from the library - usually.) And should I somehow manage to read everything I already have checked out, well, I do have an entire book shelf that is over flowing with books I own, but have not yet read. My dream is to some day win the lottery so I can just stay home and read to my heart's content. One can dream right?

What are you giving up for Lent?

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

2011-03-09T04:52:00.000-08:00

What would you do if you could re-live your last day before your death? What would you change? What would you keep? What would you cherish?

Those are the questions facing Samantha "Sam" Kensington in Lauren Oliver's debut novel Before I Fall.

GoodReads Summary:

Samantha Kingston has it all—looks, popularity, the perfect boyfriend. Friday, February 12th should be just another day in her charmed life. Instead, it’s her last. The catch: Samantha still wakes up the next morning. In fact, she re-lives the last day of her life seven times, until she realizes that by making even the slightest changes, she may hold more power than she had ever imagined.

At first, I really liked this book. It was a young adult version of Groundhog Day, only much more serious. Oliver did a fabulous job of capturing all the emotion and angst of a typical teenage girl. I liked how Oliver shows Sam's range of emotions and how she grows as she continually repeats her last day. But it was that continued repetition of the last day that finally got to me. For me, there were a few too many repetitions. I found myself just wishing the story would conclude.

I'm not sorry I read the book, but it just wasn't quite as good as I had expected. Most female teen readers I know would probably enjoy this book. I don't want to give away the ending, but I will say that after being frustrated with how long it took to get to the ending, the ending does redeem the book somewhat.

Teaser Tuesdays - March 8th

2011-03-08T19:32:00.000-08:00

From Delirium by Lauren Oliver

"Even then she refused the procedure and the comfort it would give her, and on the day the cure was to be administered it took four scientists and several needles full of tranquilizer before she would submit, before she would stop scratching with her long, sharp nails, which had gone uncut for weeks, and screaming and cursing and calling for Thomas. I watched them come for her, to bring her to the labs; I sat in a corner, terrified, while she spit and hissed and kicked, and I thought of my mom and dad."

A Deadly Cliche by Ellery Adams

2011-03-08T12:23:00.000-08:00

Goodreads Summary:

While walking her poodle, Olivia Limoges discovers a dead body buried in the sand. Could it be connected to the bizarre burglaries plaguing Oyster Bay, North Carolina? At every crime scene, the thieves set up odd tableaus: a stick of butter with a knife through it, dolls with silver spoons in their mouths, a deck of cards with a missing queen. Olivia realizes each setup represents a cliché. And who better to decode the cliché clues than her Bayside Book Writers group?

Adding to the intensity of the story is the looming tropical storm/hurricane Ophelia and the possible discovery of Olivia's father, long thought to have perished in a hurricane during Olivia's childhood.

ast summer I read a Killer Plot by Ellery Adams because the author sent it to me for review. I BOUGHT A Deadly Cliche because I enjoyed the first book so much and I couldn't wait to find out what happens to the characters from Oyster Bay.

Adams has created a wonderful community that readers will want to visit over and over. I'm a big fan of Olivia. Even though she is often reserved in her interactions with others, you can tell that she want's to be less cold. She's trying to loosen up. She's a beautiful, caring, intelligent, self-reliant woman, but she's not perfect. And she doesn't think she is.

The other characters are just as like able: sweet Laurel, who wants an identity that includes a career in addition to motherhood; Millay, the tough but vulnerable young bartender; Harris, the young, unassuming computer geek, who just happens to more attractive than he realizes; and Rawlings, Olivia's love interest, who has hidden depths and is the Chief of Police - are just a few of the delightful characters in this series.

One of the things that makes this series stand out for me, is that while it is indeed a murder mystery, at times the murder really seems to take a back seat to the development and growth of the characters in the book. It's the lives and stories of these characters that take the forefront rather than the murder. However, don't think that the murder is something the author has just thrown in to make it a murder mystery. A Deadly Cliche is a well woven mystery that any Cozy fan will enjoy.

To be cliche-ish A Deadly Cliche is a "top of the line" mystery. If mysteries are your game, you should run out and get a copy today.

Saturday Snapshot - March 5th

2011-03-05T13:34:00.000-08:00

Saturday Snapshot is a weekly meme hosted by Alyce, from At Home With Books. All we have to do is post a favorite photo we've snapped, or one captured by family or friends. (No internet poaching.)

My oldest Miniature Schnauzer (I have two), Pepper, loves my husband dearly. She's supposed to be my dog. And she does follow me around in protective mode. But she adores my husband. However, I'm not so sure she likes him in Biker Mode.

Saturday Snapshot - February 26th

2011-02-26T07:13:00.000-08:00

Saturday Snapshot is a weekly meme hosted by Alyce, from At Home With Books. All we have to do is post a favorite photo we've snapped, or one captured by family or friends. (No internet poaching.)

I recently bought the new Nikon D7000. It finally arrived and I've been trying to get as much "play" time with it as possible. We had a dusting of snow yesterday. Snow pictures are some of my favorites to play with.

The Nostalgic Librarian: Elixir Giveaway - Signed Copy!

2011-02-23T13:01:00.000-08:00

The Nostalgic Librarian: Elixir Giveaway - Signed Copy!: "Photo from Goodreads.com Here is another giveaway, this time for a signed copy of Elixir by Hilary Duff, with Elise Allen. I will be..."

Check out this great giveaway. Take a look around the blog as well. You'll end up adding to your to be read list.

I Scream You Scream by Wendy Lyn Watson

2011-02-23T05:20:00.000-08:00

Goodreads Summary: Recently divorced Tallulah Jones is mortified when she's stuck scooping sundaes for her two-timing ex-husband-and his bodacious new girlfriend, Brittanie-at his company luau.

But when Brittanie drops dead, Tally is suddenly the prime suspect in her murder investigation. To catch the killer, Tally will have to dip deep into her small Texan town's darkest secrets and churn up stories some would prefer to keep in the past. But can she uncover the real culprit before a murder charge puts her dreams on ice for good?

I really enjoyed this book. It had been on my to read list for a while. Then in October 2010 a friend picked up an autographed copy for me, but I didn't want to run the risk of messing up my signed copy, so I waited to read it until I could get a copy from the library. I recently had surgery and chose this as my get me through the ordeal read. It was a good choice.

There were a couple of things about this book that were a good indicator that this would be a series I would enjoy: ice-cream and Texas. I'm a transplanted Texan living in Colorado (love both states by the way) and for me ice cream is second only to chocolate. These are the two reasons I picked up the book. Watson's creative and humorous storytelling are why I kept reading.

This is truly a cozy. Yes, there's a death, but there's not a lot of "danger." In several cozy mysteries I read, our intrepid sleuth manages to find themselves in danger of some sort or another at least once during the story. Tally is a straight forward, no-nonsense character, though she does seem to have a hard time picking the right man.

Watson has created well developed characters (along with Tally we meet her cousin Bree and Bree's daughter Alice and a love interest from Tally's past - Finn) that the reader will want to learn more about. Even though the murder plays a big part in this book, Watson does take the time to give us a clear picture of Tally and the other residents of Dalliance, Texas.

If you are looking for a well paced, light hearted read and love mysteries and ice cream, this is the series for you. Check back soon for my review of Book Two: A Scoop to Kill. Book Three: A Parfait Murder will be released in June.

Booklady's Rating: 5 of 5

Teaser Tuesdays (Feb 22nd)

2011-02-22T06:11:00.000-08:00

Teaser Tuesdays is a weekly bookish meme, hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along! Just do the following:

~Grab your current read
~Open to a random page
~Share two (2) “teaser” sentences from somewhere on that page
~~~BE CAREFUL NOT TO INCLUDE SPOILERS! (make sure that what you share doesn’t give too much away! You don’t want to ruin the book for others!)
~Share the title and author, too, so that other TT participants can add the book to their TBR Lists if they like your teasers!

I Am Jay by Cris Beam

"I'd live on the water, too, be a water bird. J took his camera from his backpack that was stuffed with clothes, some comics, and the gold necklace he had gotten for his First Communion, which he'd sell if he got desperate."

It was hard to find two sentences that wouldn't provide spoilers. Check back soon for my review on this book. I plan to have finished reading it by the weekend.

Saturday Snapshot - February 19th

2011-02-19T05:36:00.000-08:00

Saturday Snapshot is a weekly meme hosted by Alyce, from At Home With Books. All we have to do is post a favorite photo we've snapped, or one captured by family or friends. (No internet poaching.)

For today's photo, I thought I'd share one from a Valentine's Photo Scavenger Hunt I did with some friends on Facebook. It's very much like Saturday Snapshot, in that I ask my friends to only use pictures they or a friend took. But the difference is there is usually a theme and you have to find approximately 10 photos or so. I don't know about my friends, but I have fun doing it. So, which photo to share today?

Well, I couldn't decide between these two, so I decided to share both. One of the things we were supposed to find in the hunt was something heart shaped. I figured at school, there would be lots of hearts. I just didn't expect to find on in my lunch. I just happened to notice that my sliced strawberries were heart shaped. And so pulled out my camera for a quick snap.

The second picture wasn't part of the scavenger hunt, but it was the dessert I shared with my husband during a romantic dinner at The Craftwood Inn - one of my favorite places to go for dinner in Colorado Springs.

The Nostalgic Librarian: Elixir Giveaway - Signed Copy!

2011-02-18T06:22:00.000-08:00

The Nostalgic Librarian: Elixir Giveaway - Signed Copy!: "Photo from Goodreads.com Here is another giveaway, this time for a signed copy of Elixir by Hilary Duff, with Elise Allen. I will be..."

Check it out for a great give away!

A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park

2011-02-18T06:05:00.000-08:00

Goodreads Summary: A Long Walk to Water begins as two stories, told in alternating sections, about a girl in Sudan in 2008 and a boy in Sudan in 1985. The girl, Nya, is fetching water from a pond that is two hours’ walk from her home: she makes two trips to the pond every day. The boy, Salva, becomes one of the "lost boys" of Sudan, refugees who cover the African continent on foot as they search for their families and for a safe place to stay. Enduring every hardship from loneliness to attack by armed rebels to contact with killer lions and crocodiles, Salva is a survivor, and his story goes on to intersect with Nya’s in an astonishing and moving way.

Park has woven an inspiring tale based on a true story. A Long Walk to Water will help young adults understand the conflict in a far away country. The story also emphasizes the importance of clean water and how one person's struggles can inspire them to help others. Alternating between Nya's and Salva's stories, Park skillfully weaves the past with the present. It's a very powerful story. One that I couldn't put down. It's a quick read, easily read in one sitting. This is a great book to generate a discussion about world issues.

Though shelved in the teen section at the library, Amazon lists the reading level as ages 9 to 12. I recommend it for 5th grade and up, but parents and teachers should be aware that there is some mild violence. It does after all take place in a war torn country.

I Love Cozy Mysteries Winner

2011-02-16T06:17:00.000-08:00

Thank you to everyone who entered my I Love Cozy Mysteries Give Away. The winner selected from a random drawing is Erika. I have sent her an email notification.

Again thank you for entering. I have some new mystery suggestions for my to read list.

Teaser Tuesdays (Feb 15)

2011-02-15T08:31:00.000-08:00

"Everyone knows Brian had a thing for pretty girls. He was always chatting them up in class and promising them extra credit if they'd help him with filing and stuff in his office."

It's Monday What Are You Reading (3)

2011-02-14T06:22:00.000-08:00

It's Monday! What are you reading is hosted by One Persons Journey through a world of Books. Each week we spotlight the books we are reading, planning on reading or just finished reading.

Over the weekend, I finished several books:

A Long Walk to Water by Linda Sue Park

Warped by Melissa Guibord - Library ebook on my iPad

Body Work by Sara Paretsky - audio book

I'm currently reading:

BOOBS: A Bunch Of Outrageous Breast Cancer Survivors compiled by Ann Kempner Fisher

The Secret Life of Mrs. Finkleman by Ben H. Winters

All Just Glass by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes (library e-book)

The Tender Bar by J. R. Moehringer (Kindle e-book for my book club - Pikes Peak Bookworms)

Scoop to Kill by Wendy Lyn Watson

WHAT ARE YOU READING?

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T05:19:00.000-08:00

Next to my wonderful husband, children (including my four furry ones - well three furry and one prickly one), and my parents by choice, my two biggest loves are books and photos. I'm fortunate enough that my job allows me to be surrounded by what I love (what better than to spend your work days in a room full of books/) and requires me to talk to others about what I love. I'm also fortunate that my husband supports both my big loves (he doesn't complain about the money I spend on books) and he's even helping me make the transition from hobby photographer to semi-profressional photographer. The above collage has a picture of my local public library, a chocolate "book" cake, and a picture of me performing one of my favorite tasks at school.

If you love cozy mysteries or know someone who does, don't forget to enter my I Love Cozy Mysteries give away. You must be a follower of this blog and leave a comment on the I Love Cozy Mysteries post by midnight tonight for a chance to win a prize pack of cozy mysteries - a couple of them are autographed.

So what do you love?

Saturday Snapshot - February 12th

2011-02-12T04:26:00.000-08:00

Saturday Snapshot is a weekly meme hosted by Alyce, from At Home With Books. All we have to do is post a favorite photo we've snapped, or one captured by family or friends. (No internet poaching.)

For today's snapshot, I went back to my undergrad days - back in the time of the dinosaurs when we didn't have digital cameras. I took several photography classes. When it came to developing color slides, I stunk at it. (And I hated it. You would spend 45 minutes in total darkness only to discover that you had placed the paper in the easel crooked and had to start over.) When my professor offered me the opportunity to hand color my black and white photos and let that count as my "color" work. I jumped on it. It is one of the things I miss about the old days. This a picture of my cousin, who was more like my little brother than a cousin. He and his sister would were used to my snapping their pictures all the time.

You Better Knot Die by Betty Hechtman

2011-02-10T04:52:00.000-08:00

I love to crochet. So when I first discovered this series that featured crocheting I was ecstatic. It's a pretty darn good mystery series as well. And I'm pleased to see that the series has broken into hardback fairly quickly. Of course since this is a series I collect, that means my book expenses have gone up, but that's OK.

Book Summary:

Her crochet group, The Tarzana Hookers, is working overtime for the holidays-but Molly Pink is having trouble finding time to crochet so much as a snowflake. The bookstore where she works is adding a yarn department, and planning a huge launch party where the mysterious author of a popular series will reveal his or her true identity.

But before the author appears, another person disappears. The husband of Molly's neighbor is missing. When a suicide note arrives, it appears the husband has jumped off the Catalina Ferry- but Molly smells something fishy. Despite the protestations of her detective boyfriend, Molly's soon hooked on unraveling another mystery. She better watch out-or her sleuthing may get her on someone's naughty list...

I find Pink to be a fairly grounded character considering all the crazy things that happen to her. She's caught between two love interests. Her two adult sons treat her with a great deal of condescension. Craziest of all is that she has to put up with Adelle, a knitting hating, over confident co-worker who horns in on everything. (I guess we all have an Adelle in our lives and that's just one of the aspects of this series that makes it easy for the reader to connect.)

In this latest installment, Hechtman taps into the vampire craze by featuring a secretive author who writes books about a vampire who controls his blood lust by crocheting. I'm not sure you would find a real series about a crocheting vampire, but it makes this book a fun read. Hechtman has even included a crochet pattern for a "vampire" scarf.

There were a few twists and turns in this installment that makes this my favorite of the series so far. If you enjoy cozy mysteries with a dash of comedy, this is a series for you.

The Things A Brother Knows

2011-02-09T09:06:00.000-08:00

Good Reads Summary:

The story of a young marine’s return from war in the Middle East and the psychological effects it has on his family.
Finally, Levi Katznelson’s older brother, Boaz, has returned. Boaz was a high school star who had it all and gave it up to serve in a war Levi can’t understand. Things have been on hold since Boaz left. With the help of his two best friends Levi has fumbled his way through high school, weary of his role as little brother to the hero.
But when Boaz walks through the front door after his tour of duty is over, Levi knows there’s something wrong. Boaz is home, safe. But Levi knows that his brother is not the same.
Maybe things will never return to normal. Then Boaz leaves again, and this time Levi follows him, determined to understand who his brother was, who he has become, and how to bring him home again.
Award-winning author Dana Reinhardt introduces readers to Levi, who has never known what he believes, and whose journey reveals truths only a brother knows.

I am generally skeptical when reading books that have to do with the military and the current on-going conflicts. As an Army wife, I'm usually appalled by the lack of understanding that seems to be rampant in many of the books or I'm put off by the fact the many of the books on this theme seem to be written for the single purpose of protesting the war without any thought to actually writing a good story. So, I was a little wary of reading The Things A Brother Knows.

I'm happy to say that I was pleasantly surprised. Reinhardt tells a compelling story that highlights the impact of military service on the family as well as the soldier. While Boaz' military service sets the background for this story, it's also very much about the relationship between a younger brother and his older brother. It is also about a journey: Levi's journey to understand his brother. Boaz's journey to find himself - though in truth Boaz's journey does not truly begin until the book ends.

Reinhardt has created well developed characters with a great deal of depth. You can't help but feel for each of them as they struggle with trying to return to the way things were, finally realizing that will never happen. This was an engaging read that I did not want to put down. It was not a statement about the war, but a wonderfully painted picture about how experiences change not only the person who has those experiences, but also changes those around them.

I consider this one of my best reads in 2011 so far.

Teaser Tuesdays (Feb 8th)

2011-02-08T11:03:00.000-08:00

Things A Brother Knows by Dana Reinhardt
Page 46:

"But I also want to say something about this protest Eddie organized. Something about people who sit around all day getting high, and then have the nerve to complain about the people who put their own lives at risk every time they swing their feet out of bed and drop them on the floor."

What are you reading?

Between the Covers: We Heart Nook Giveaway

2011-02-08T07:05:00.000-08:00

Between the Covers: We Heart Nook Giveaway: "Nook Giveaway Rules: This is a multiple blog giveaway. Each blog is giving away a prize pack that will include an entry into the Grand Pr..."

This would be a great way to jump into digital reading. Plus they have some great book prizes as well. Best of all, you should follow their reviews. It's a great way to keep up on the world of books.

Saturday Snapshopt - February 5th

2011-02-05T06:04:00.000-08:00

Saturday Snapshot is a weekly meme hosted by Alyce, from At Home With Books. All we have to do is post a favorite photo we've snapped, or one captured by family or friends. (No internet poaching.)

This is a photo I took last Sunday at in Black Forest before my surgery and the following snow falls. I love taking snow photos and missed several opportunities this past week during my recovery. But all in all this is not a bad photo. (In addition to snow photos, I like photos with a patriotic touch.)

A Catered Thanksgiving by Isis Crawford

2011-02-04T18:32:00.000-08:00

I received this just last week as part of Librarything's Early Review.

Goodreads Summary:
Sisters Bernie and Libby Simmons have handled plenty of catering challenges with grace and aplomb. But this Thanksgiving, they're cooking a feast for felons. . .

Whipping up Thanksgiving dinner with all the trimmings can be stressful for anyone, but that goes double for the Field family. They know that every family get-together has to be picture perfect, or they risk getting cut out of dominating patriarch Monty's extremely lucrative will.

That's where A Little Taste of Heaven, Bernie and Libby's catering company, comes in. Surely with their lumpless mashed potatoes and to-die-for gravy on the table, even the super-dysfunctional Fields can pretend to get along for one meal. But no one can dress up the disaster when the cover-worthy turkey goes boom right in Monty Field's scowling face, sending him to that great dining room in the sky.

With every member of the Field family harboring their own cornucopia of secrets, figuring out who wanted to carve up Monty isn't going to be easy. And to make matters worse, the Field Mansion is draped under a freak November snowstorm, making any hope of escape--or getting outside help--vanish faster than the Simmons' famous stuffing.

Now, trapped with a killer determined to get more than his fair share of the pumpkin pie, Bernie and Libby are going to have to convince the Fields that they aren't to blame--and find out who really is, fast. Because it won't be long before the leftovers--and the Simmons sisters' chances of surviving this real turkey of a day--run out for good

This is the first book I have read by Crawford. Though it is books seven in her culinary mystery series, Crawford has created a story that can easily stand on it's own. Though I hope to go back and read the other six books, I did not feel lost in this story by not having read the previous books.

I have to be honest and say that I hated the Field family. I think that was Crawford's intent. None of them were likable characters, making it easy to suspect them all of murder. At times the banter between Bernie and Libby was a little irritating - sort of like being on the outside looking in - which is how it sometimes is with really close siblings. I found the plot to be rather like an Agatha Christie novel. (I love Agatha Christie) and I'm pleased to say that I was caught off guard by who turned out to be the killer. It was a quick read, one that I finished in a day.

Culinary mysteries are very popular right now. While I would not rate A Catered Thanksgiving among the top culinary mysteries, I did find it an enjoyable enough read that I will read other books in the series.

My rating: 3 of 5.

One Crazy Summer by Rita Williams-Garcia

2011-02-04T12:16:00.000-08:00

Cross Posting from Mrs. Archer's Book Notes

Goodreads Description:

Eleven-year-old Delphine has it together. Even though her mother, Cecile, abandoned her and her younger sisters, Vonetta and Fern, seven years ago. Even though her father and Big Ma will send them from Brooklyn to Oakland, California, to stay with Cecile for the summer. And even though Delphine will have to take care of her sisters, as usual, and learn the truth about the missing pieces of the past.
When the girls arrive in Oakland in the summer of 1968, Cecile wants nothing to do with them. She makes them eat Chinese takeout dinners, forbids them to enter her kitchen, and never explains the strange visitors with Afros and black berets who knock on her door. Rather than spend time with them, Cecile sends Delphine, Vonetta, and Fern to a summer camp sponsored by a revolutionary group, the Black Panthers, where the girls get a radical new education.
Set during one of the most tumultuous years in recent American history, one crazy summer is the heartbreaking, funny tale of three girls in search of the mother who abandoned them—an unforgettable story told by a distinguished author of books for children and teens, Rita Williams-Garcia.

This is not a fast paced book, but the story moves along at pace that keeps the reader engaged. Eleven-year-old Delphine is wise beyond her years. Through her eyes young readers can experience 1960s Oakland at the height of the Black Panthers. The reader also experiences the disappointment of a mother who seemingly has no feelings for her own children. Williams-Garcia’s beautifully written story not only allows us experience Delphine’s growth over the summer, but also experience her beginning understanding of her mother. Cecile is not a lovable character at all, but (slight spoiler here) does show the potential for redeeming herself.

This is a perfect read for 5^th graders and up.

Mrs. Archer’s rating 5 of 5.

January Reading Summary

2011-02-03T09:11:00.000-08:00

I really jumped on the Reading Challenge Bandwagon this year. Many of the challenges overlap. Officially I signed up for

Off The Shelf Challenge - my goal is to read a minimum of 30 books I purchased prior to January 1, 2011
Mystery and Suspense Challenge (sponsored by Book Chick City): goal 12 mysteries
2011 Young Adult Historical Challenge: goal 15 YAHF books
2011 Young Adult Book Challenge: goal 50 YA books
Youth Media Award Challenge (sponsored by me) 12 ALA Youth Media Award Winners
350 Page Challenge: On this one, I'm just tracking how many books I read that are 350 pages or more
Support Your Library Challenge: Again, I'm tracking how many library books I read. The majority of my reads are library books.
111 in 2011 (the goal is to read 111 books in 2011 - I read 291 books in 2010 so this should be easy.

I also challenged myself to become more familiar with the picture book collection in my library at Chinook. So you will see that I'm ready quite a few picture books this year. This will also greatly increase my number of books read. I happen to think picture books are important and everyone (including teens and adults) should read them more often.

In January I read a total of 65 books. 48 of them were library books. 4 were 350 or more pages long. 9 were young adult books (one of those was YA Historical Fiction). Four were mysteries. 7 were ALA Youth Media Award winners. 6 were non-fiction. 38 were picture books. One was an audio book. Four were e-books. Seven were Juvenile Fiction Chapter Books and two were general fiction books.

How was your January reading?

Confessions of a Bookaholic: Interview & Giveaway: The Demon Trapper's Daughter...

2011-02-03T08:44:00.000-08:00

Confessions of a Bookaholic: Interview & Giveaway: The Demon Trapper's Daughter...: "I'm thrilled to have Jana Oliver, author of The Demon Trapper's Daughter, on my blog today. She has answered some questions and offer..."

Check out this great author interview. You should check out the blog as well. You'll end up adding lots of great titles to your to be read list.

Between the Covers: Author Interview & Giveaway: Kindred Blood Trilog...

2011-02-03T05:59:00.000-08:00

Between the Covers: Author Interview & Giveaway: Kindred Blood Trilog...: "Trying to put his past behind him, Kaden moves to New York City where he creates a new life for himself. And that isn't easy, considering th..."

Click above and check out this great author interview with Amber Riley. And you have a chance to win free books, too!

I Love Cozy Mysteries Give Away

2011-02-01T19:24:00.000-08:00

Today marks the release of a new book by one of my favorite cozy mystery authors: A Crafty Killing by Lorraine Bartlett. You can read my review here. To help celebrate that release and to celebrate my love cozy mysteries I am offering a special Valentine give away.

I have loved cozy mysteries ever since I read my first Agatha Christie novel when I was a kid. To share my love of cozy mysteries I am giving away the following prize pack of 9 cozy mysteries (3 of which are autographed) to one winner:

An autographed copy of A Crafty Killing by Lorraine Bartlett (not pictured)
An autographed copy of Bookmarked for Death by Lorna Barrett (not pictured)
An autographed copy of Knit One, Kill Two by Maggie Sefton
The Long Quiche Goodbye by Avery Aames
Sprinkle With Murder by Jenn McKinlay
Murder on the Menu by Miranda Bliss
Hooked on Murder by Betty Hechtman
A Bone to Pick by Charlaine Harris
The Diva Cooks A Goose by Krista Davis (not pictured)

They are all new paperbacks. To enter you just need to follow my blog and leave a comment telling me the name of your favorite cozy mystery. Be sure to leave a way for me to contact you. You have until midnight on February 14th to enter. Good luck!

Tuesday Teaser - Feb 2nd

2011-02-01T09:01:00.000-08:00

I Scream You Scream by Wendy Lyn Watson has been on my to read list for a while. A dear friend picked me up a an autographed copy of this and Scoop to Kill. I started I Scream yesterday while waiting for my surgery. I'd have finished it by now if I hadn't been so drugged up after the surgery. It's a great read.

Page: 184
"I make really good ice cream," I snapped. "That ought to count for more than all that marketing mumbo-jumbo."

Saturday Snapshopt - a little late

2011-01-30T04:54:00.000-08:00

Saturday Snapshot is a weekly meme hosted by Alyce, At Home With Books. All we have to do is post a favorite we’ve snapped, or one captured by family or friends.

I'm running behind this week. (It's really Sunday.)

This is me with one of my favorite mystery authors, Maggie Sefton. Check back on February 1st for information on my Cozy Mystery giveway - it includes an autographed copy of one of Maggie's books.

Upcoming Cozy Mystery Giveaway

2011-01-29T06:58:00.000-08:00

I LOVE Cozy Mysteries. And since February is the month of love, I thought I'd celebrate my love mysteries. Check with me on February 1st, for more information on how to win some of my favorite cozy mysteries - some are even autographed.

Shoots to Kill by Kate Collins

2011-01-27T12:55:00.000-08:00

Summary:

When she was younger Abby Knight was Elizabeth’s babysitter. Back then Elizabeth, frustrated Abby by trying to be just like here. Elizabeth, now known as Libby is back and mothering has changed. In fact it’s worse. Not only has she changed her name to resemble Abby’s, but she seems bent on stealing Abby’s identity as well. She’s even after Abby’s boyfriend Marco. But imitation really becomes the sincerest form of trouble when Abby finds herself the accused dupe in a bizarre murder plot. It’s up to Abby to find the real killer and shine the light on Libby’s scheme.

It’s been a while since I read a book from this series. I don’t know how I managed to lose track of the new books because this is a series I truly enjoy. Abby is a strong and likeable character. She even has a good relationship with her mother (though not a perfect one – anyone would find it difficult to handle the crafts that Abby’s mom keeps creating for Abby to sell in the flower shop.) Abby’s hunky love interest, Marco, is a delight to read about.

Even though I enjoyed this 7^th installment in the series, at times it was a frustrating read – not because Collins isn’t a masterful storyteller. She is. It’s just that I felt Abby’s frustration over the fact that everyone, including Marco and Abby’s mom seemed to think Libby was harmless – that Abby should be flattered by Libby’s attempts to be like Abby. Gracious people! Libby fits the bill of a horror movie stalker.

I have to admit there was some humor to the situation (though identify theft is a serious matter.) That’s what I like so much about this series – the humor and light heartedness. Yes, Abby is constantly finding dead bodies or being accused of murder. Collins treats death with reverence, but still the reader doesn’t finish the book feeling depressed. Besides, who wouldn’t laugh at the idea of your mother purchasing a llama to live in the backyard so she can have homegrown yarn? That’s just one of the crazy things she does.

If you are looking for a well thought out and humorous cozy mystery, this series is for you.

The Diva Runs Out of Thyme by Krista Davis

2011-01-26T08:09:00.000-08:00

Goodreads Description:
Few can compete with Natasha Smith when it comes to entertaining, but her childhood rival, Sophie Winston, certainly tries. Natasha may have stolen the spotlight and Sophie's husband but Sophie is determined to rob her of the prize for the Stupendous Stuffing Shakedown. She just needs the right ingredient.

But Sophie's search for the perfect turkey takes a basting when she stumbles across a corpse. And when the police find her name and photo inside the victim's car, Sophie will have to set her trussing aside to solve the murder or she'll be serving up prison grub.

This book has been sitting on my To Read Shelf for quite a while. I can't believe I waited so long to read it. I love a good cozy mystery. This series fits the bill: an intelligent, likable, and down to earth sleuth, a love interest, a few lovable if irritating relatives and a nemesis you love to hate. Sophie is a well developed character that I look forward to reading more about. I think she shows incredible patience in dealing with all the distractions in her life. She's far nicer to Natasha than Natasha deserves. The one thing I did find irritating was the attitude of the police, even Wolfe, whom, I hope will be taking a more personal role in Sophie's life. The police just seemed too pigheaded for my tastes. However, that just made it more enjoyable when Sophie solved the case.

If you are looking for a great cozy series that includes some down to earth entertaining tips, you should give this one a try.

Books Complete Me: Delirium Blog Tour Day Two: An Excerpt & Giveaway

2011-01-25T06:07:00.000-08:00

Books Complete Me: Delirium Blog Tour Day Two: An Excerpt & Giveaway: "Welcome to Day Two of the Official Delirium Blog Tour! Today we will be sharing an excerpt from chapter two of the book with you. Here is..."

This book was already on my to read list, but even if it wasn't already on my list I'd be adding it after reading this snippet. Blog tours are fun way to learn about a book and the book's author. Be sure to check this one out.