Thursday, December 17, 2015

How Longs It Been?!?

Hey guys, I'm sorry I haven't been on in awhile. At the end of a quarter, I'm always busy with projects and homework. I just finished three end of the quarter projects and a science test. But, don't worry. This Friday is the start of my Winter Break! I will be spending time with family and blogging.

Another thing. If you would like to share your time with your families or even the food you ate. Take a picture and post it on my blog or my official Facebook page.
Click on the link below!

Friday, November 27, 2015

Revisiting The Past!!!

At the beginning of my Thanksgiving weekend, I started rereading the Gryphon series again. Stacey Rourke's books make you want to reread them again and again. In a good way, though. I also heard that she is planning another book, but in the perspective of a different person!

Book Review: Pivot Point - The Pivot Point Series




Synopsis

Perfect for fans of Sliding Doors, Kasie West's riveting novel Pivot Point follows a girl with the power to see her potential futures.
Addison Coleman's life is one big "What if?" As a Searcher, a special type of clairvoyant, whenever Addie is faced with a choice, she is able to look into the future and see both outcomes. So when her parents tell her they are getting a divorce and she has to pick who she wants to live with, a Search has never been more important.
In one future Addie is living with her mom in the life she's always known and is being pursued by the most popular guy in school. In the other she is the new girl in school, where she falls for a cute, quiet artist. Then Addie finds herself drawn into a murder investigation, and her fate takes a darker turn. With so much to lose in either future, Addie must decide which reality she's willing to live through . . . and who she's willing to live without.

My Review


This is the first book in a two book series. Kasie West is the author and the book is 357 pages long.

Addie's life has been somewhat perfect. She had two parents that loved each other, an awesome best friend, and a very useful ability. All of a sudden her life did a turn-over and now she has to choose between her two parents. She decides to look into the future of each choice. She has the choice between her dad at a norm school with norm friends and a norm boyfriend. Then, there is her mother. She would get to stay with her bestie and would be dating the most popular boy in school. Both had different outcomes, but they similarities as well. Either way someone important to her gets killed. Who will Addie choose? Which side is more dangerous?

I'll give Kasie West kudos for this book. I hate SyFy, but this book was relatively different. I mean, it is about these people that have special abilities and are trying to stay hidden from us "norms". I like Kasie's choice in words, as well. She explains Addie's thoughts very thoroughly and clearly. There was a few errors, not enough to really make a difference. The only real problem was the confusion. It switches from choice to choice so fast that you don't follow. There was many times when I would ask myself "Did I skip a few pages? Which outcome is this? Hugh!?" Yeah, I'm kinda weird, but it's true! 

Thursday, November 19, 2015

Book Review: Ascension - The Conduit Series




Synopsis

The turning point of the Gryphon saga is at hand … 

Battle looms. Three unstoppable forces prepare to clash in a colossal explosion that could wipe Gainesboro off the map. Fate and a sacred calling have landed nineteen year old Celeste Garrett in the middle with nowhere to run. 

Her trust wavers as she uncovers dark secrets of the Council, powerful enough to test her loyalty and turn her against those she swore to protect. Playing to the longing of her heart, a malevolent enemy uses her weakness against her to form an alliance. 

With the trumpets of war about to sound, which side will the Conduit choose, and who will be left standing?

My Review



This is the fourth book of the Conduit Series. Stacey Rourke is a great author that has written many great books. This book is 318 pages long, but it is worth all of them!

The Garrett family are at the final battle. After loosing so much they go on and make new alliances. There is going to be a new member of the family on the way. Rowan is sneaking his way back up to Celeste. Alec is coming to his end and Celeste has to choose between killing the demon inside Alec or using the discus to kill the Dark army. Celeste has to fight the Dark army's minions to get to the Dark Queen. Will Celeste embrace herself as the Gryphon? Who will win this great battle?

I loved this book series more than any series ever. The battle at the end of this book is so EPIC that you will want more. Stacey Rourke is a great author and I hope to read some of her other books and even reread this series. Thank you Stacey Rourke for bringing all of your characters to life and making the battle so great. If I could give this more than five stars I would.

Friday, November 13, 2015

Book Review: Heartbound




Synopsis

Petyr has never found it necessary to consider the humans as anything more than distant, inferior beings-until now. They are the cause of the fatal disease that has plagued his realm, taking the lives of two many of his kind. As a future leader of a realm in peril, Petyr must find a way to resist and cure the affliction. He must enter the unfamiliar realm, appear to be an ordinary eighteen-year-old human, observe, and learn.

However, things don't exactly go according to plan. Instead of embarking singe-mindedly on his sober mission, Petyr meets an 18-year-old girl who does things to his emotions that he can't quite fathom or control. Petyr is falling in love, and he almost forgets the gravity his choices have on his entire world. Despite the risk it poses to his life and hers, he wants to know her, and he wants her to know him- and his world.
My Review



This book is written by P.I. Alltraine and it is 171 pages long.

Petyr has spent all of his life protecting the Cortas, until now. Petyr and a few other members were sent to Earth to discover why humans had an effect on them. Just when their mission can't get any worse, Petyr meets her. Petyr has a new mission now. To get to know this human that makes him feel this way. Love is a strong thing and Petyr now knows that. He is in love with a human, but he can not show his true identity to her without falling for the forbidden. Is their love to be? What other dangers are humans to the Cortas?

This book was very interesting. The beginning was pretty slow, but it started to progress later in the book. The author did a great job of showing their abilities and describing their inner cores. There were a lot of scientific words in it and a sweet romance. The "Forbidden" was confusing, but it was starting to clear toward the end. I could not find it on Barnes and Noble, so I'm sorry.

Saturday, November 7, 2015

Book Review: Rot & Ruin - The Rot & Ruin Series




Synopsis

In the zombie-infested, post-apocalyptic America where Benny Imura lives, every teenager must find a job by the time they turn fifteen or get their rations cut in half. Benny doesn't want to apprentice as a zombie hunter with his boring older brother Tom, but he has no choice. He expects a tedious job whacking zoms for cash, but what he gets is a vocation that will teach him what it means to be human.

My Review

This is the first book in a five book series. The author is Jonathan Maberry and the book is 468 pages long.

Benny Imura has always thought Charlie Pink-Eye was cool for him killing zoms. Ever since Benny's parents died on First Night, he's had a burning hatred for zoms. When Tom Imura, Benny's brother comes back from a hunt to turn Benny into his apprentice, he takes him into the vast Rot and Ruin. Tom is a zom hunter, but he doesn't kill for fun. Tom and Benny go on a journey to the Rot and Ruin where Tom is on a mission to teach his brother his ways. What is Tom's job? What will Benny learn from this journey?

I loved how Jonathan Maberry captured how zoms aren't just evil parasites. They are just sick people, with no choices. Jonathan also captured all the mixed emotions of Benny and Tom's journey in the Rot and Ruin. It was different from a lot of the other zombie books I've read. Also, out of all the zombie books I've read, I've never heard the term zom before. I hope to read the second book soon.

Thursday, November 5, 2015

Book Review: Clockwork Angel - The Infernal Devices Series




Synopsis

The Infernal Devices is the story of Tessa Gray, a sixteen-year-old American girl traveling alone to Victorian London who runs afoul of the city's sordid supernatural underworld. Rescued by the Shadowhunters of the London Institute, Tessa quickly finds herself caught up in an intrigue that may very well destroy her new friends - including the two enigmatic young men, Jem and Will, who have taken her under their wing... 

My Review



This is the first book in a series called "The Infernal Devices". The author is Clare Cassandra.

Tessa Gray goes to move with her brother after her aunt died. On her way to her destination, these people snatch her and say they captured her brother. She has the special ability to change her form, which is something that is unheard of for the demons. This guy named the Magister wants to marry her for this ability, but then a boy named Will breaks her out and takes her away to a safe place. This place is full of these people with angelic abilities, called Shadowhunters. The only problem is the Magister won't stop until he has her. De Quincy, a very old vampire, is being very suspicious and has this blueprint to create these clockwork monsters with demonic essence. Will that plan succeed? Who is the Magister? Who are the Shadowhunters?

I liked the book, because it is similar to the Mortal Instruments series. When I was on Amazon and Barnes and Noble, though, it was very difficult to find information. I couldn't find the first book on Barnes and Noble, you had to buy the whole series. The synopsis didn't even come from the book, since I couldn't find it, so it is from the graphic novel. Among other reasons. The book itself was great though. Good detail and great descriptions of the beautiful, but dangerous setting. The demons Clare created were excellent examples of the fact that even monsters have feelings. Vampires got their humanity taken away from them and most wish to have their souls back. Another instance in the book is the time where a demon's sister is killed and all she wants to do is be with her. It's a sad reminder that the world can be cruel.

Monday, November 2, 2015

Book Review: Sacrifice - The Gryphon Series




Synopsis

Celeste Garrett has finally found a happy balance in her life as the Chosen One, thanks in large part to a certain hunky Irishman. But if there’s any lesson she should heed since receiving her calling it’s that everything can change in the blink of an eye. Soon a terrible new threat, unlike anything she’s ever encountered, causes her to make a gut-wrenching choice that will strip her of someone she holds dear. 

My Review


It is the third book in the Gryphon Series and it is 222 pages long.

Now that Celeste knows there are three sides to this war, she is feeling less confident in winning. There is Alex and his demons, the Conduit and her beau, and the Dark Army all fighting the same war. That's not even the worst part, she has to play dress-up for a wedding. She is loosing all the people she cares about. Keni has gone berserk and Caleb is in grave danger. Also, little gnomes are out to get her. What extent will she go to help the people she loves? What is happening between Celeste and Rowan?

I did not expect this big turn-over. It was all so unexpected. The love and the desire in this book was great. Stacey Rourke put it in great detail.(Not in a bad way) I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who reads. This series is great. I wish it would never end, but if people did lots of books, eventually they would either run out of ideas or people would just get bored with it. This is a series that has so many possibilities. Stacey Rourke is a great writer and I hope to read more of her books. 


Getting Back Up

I'm sorry to have been gone for so long, but I am back up and ready to go. I plan on reviewing a LOT. Especially, since I'm going to be a guest speaker at Utopia next year! YAY!!!!!! I hope to see a lot of authors and even talk about my movement, #Authoragainstbullying. I'm back up and I have been reading. It helps keep me calm and collected, so I really do enjoy it.


Now to talk about something else. Halloween was the day before yesterday. I was Medusa and won 1st place. If you want to share, go to my Facebook page and send me messages or pictures. Halloween is my 2nd favorite holiday. Bye.

Thursday, October 8, 2015

Tragic Pause


I'm sorry I'm behind on my reading. The bullying is getting even worse and last night my mom and dad came home with my aunt with bad news. My grandma had been in the hospital for a long time, because of an Ulcer. They were finally going to let her come home when something bad hit. She died after awhile. After her husband, my papa, died all she wanted to do was be with him and now she is. The hardest thing she did was let go of her family on Earth. She was surrounded by friends and family, including her pastor. May she rest in peace.

If you read this, like it and if you want to you can talk about a family member you were very connected to. I would love to hear from you guys, sometimes it helps to remember their best moments, or in my case read a book.

Book Review: Wings - The Wings Series




Synopsis

Laurel was mesmerized, staring at the pale things. They were terrifyingly beautiful;too beautiful for words.
Laurel turned to the mirror again, her eyes on the hovering petals that floated beside her head. They looked almost like wings.
Laurel's life is the very definition of normal . . . until the morning when she wakes up to discover a flower blooming from her back. As it turns out, nothing in Laurel's life is what it seems. Now, with the help of an alluring faerie sentry who holds the key to her true past, Laurel must race to save her human family from the centuries-old faerie enemies who walk among them.
My Review


This is the first book of the Wings Series. The author is Aprilynne Pike. The book is 320 pages long. There are four books: Wings, which I already read, Spells, Illusions, and Destined.

Laurel has always been different, only eating fruits and vegetables and drinking Sprite. She has never been to the doctor, either. She used to live in this beautiful house in a forest, but her father got a new job opportunity so they were going to sell it. There is something very important at Laurel's old home... or someone! Then, one day she woke up to a huge bump in the middle of her back. What is happening to her? Why is Laurel's old property so important?

I liked how the author made the fairies unique. No one would have thought of fairies as plants. It is pretty confusing, but it clears up at the end. I think the next book explains more, because all you know is that she is different. I like how it's kind of a love triangle, she feels bonded to another fairy because of her past relationship with him, but she also shows gratitude to a human that has helped her through her changes.

Sunday, September 27, 2015

Book Review: Fight for Dawn - The Dawn Trilogy

 
 
 
Synopsis
 
 
THE EAGERLY AWAITED SEQUEL TO ANGELS DAWN! She should've known better than to hope her life could be normal after losing her best friend Nate. It’s hard enough to deal with the loss but now she “sees” him everywhere. Add that to meeting Gabe, the new guy who sends her heart racing and Dawn is certainly spinning. It’s almost enough to make her forget the demons that lurk in the shadows. Unfortunately the many distractions aren’t enough to purge Angelo from her broken heart. Her hopes of ever being with him again have been dashed. He’s moving farther away and there is nothing she can do to stop it. Soon the demons Dawn wanted to forget about will remind her of their presence and she’ll have to abandon everything else. Not only is her life in danger, but the lives of everyone around her as well.
 
My Review
 


This is the second book to the Dawn Trilogy. It is 234 pages long.

After Nate's death, nothing was the same. Everywhere she went Nate was there, watching her. Her trip to Italy is coming up and she meets Gabriel, her tour guide. Angelo and Bonita had a connection that complicates things more for Dawn. A miracle baby is on the way, but that's not the only secret you will learn. Angelo has been relieved of his duties as Dawn's guardian angel. Who is Dawn's new guardian angel? Who's the baby's parents?

I loved this book, but it was a bit confusing. I hope there is another book. The ending is so unbelievable and just awesome. This book has a lot of secrets and problems that have to be solved. If I had to choose between Angelo and Gabriel, I would definitely choose Gabriel.


Monday, September 21, 2015

Book Review: Full Moon Kisses - Once in a Full Moon Series

 
 
 
Synopsis
 
This enticing paranormal romance featuring werewolves and the popular girl who loves them is a great conclusion to the Full Moon series.
What will Celeste do now that both her heroic boyfriend, Brandon, and her popular ex-boyfriend, Nash, are werewolves? And someone wants to turn her into a werewolf, too. Life is complicated under Legend Run's full moon.

 
My Review
 
 
 
This is the third book in the Once in a Full Moon series. It is 224 pages long, too.
 
Brandon's dad brought a cure, but there is some other werewolves as well. And one of them wants to turn her. She is finally able to tell her friends she is together with Brandon and she even gets to hang out with him, which is great. The only problem is part of Brandon likes being a werewolf, so he keeps himself from taking the cure at the last second. The annual Werewolf Festival is coming up and the werewolves are going to be there. What is going to happen to Celeste? Will Brandon take the cure?
 
I loved this book as well. I didn't really like the ending, because it didn't say anything about Celeste and Brandon in the future.


Monday, September 14, 2015

Book Review: Magic of the Moonlight - Once in a Full Moon Series

 
 
 
Synopsis
 
Beware of a bite under a full moon . . . It will complicate your love life.
Celeste has more to worry about than a secret romance with a hot guy from the wrong side of town. That guy, Brandon, is a werewolf. With gossip and hostility swirling at school, it’s time to find a cure for his nocturnal condition, and perhaps the one person who can help is his scientist father. But what if a “cure” makes things worse and Brandon becomes a werewolf full time?
To keep Brandon’s secret safe, Celeste must hide her relationship with him from her best friends, but with the Moonlight Ball approaching, she must make a choice. Her dream is to go with her one true love—Brandon. But once the sun goes down, the clouds separate, and the full moon appears, could she really walk into the dance on the arm of a werewolf?
In this installment of the sumptuously romantic Full Moon series, Celeste faces her fears and her friends and finds out whether she’s strong enough to stand up for herself and her one true love.

My Review
 

This is the second book in the Once in a Full Moon series and it is 245 pages long.

Celeste is in love with Brandon without a doubt. Her friends don't know, but she can't hold the secret in much longer. Brandon has finally started to get used to being a werewolf, but he doesn't want to be a werewolf forever. He tells his dad about his predicament and his dad agrees to do some tests. His dad watches his son's first transformation and shows fear. He takes away Celeste and tells her she can't see Brandon anymore. That isn't the only problem though... The physic told her "Beware of a bite under the full moon... It will complicate your love life!" Who will be bitten? Is there a possible cure for lycanthropy?

I liked this book, as well. I liked how they had a major conflict throughout the series, but had minor conflicts in each book. In the last book it was the fact that Celeste was in love with Brandon. In this book it is the fact that someone is going to become a werewolf and there is a possible cure. I also like the fact that this series can be read by almost any age group. Teens, Tweens, Young Adult, and Adults.



Tuesday, September 8, 2015

Book Review: Once in a Full Moon - Once in a Full Moon Series

 
 
 
Synopsis
 

Beware of a kiss under the full moon. It will change your life forever.
Celeste Parker is used to hearing scary stories about werewolves—Legend’s Run is famous for them. She’s used to everything in the small town until Brandon Maddox moves to Legend’s Run and Celeste finds herself drawn to him, much to the chagrin of her friends and perfect boyfriend. But when, after an unnerving visit with a psychic, she encounters a pack of wolves and gorgeous, enigmatic Brandon, she must discover if the stories are more than legend. He may be Celeste’s hero or he may be the most dangerous creature she could encounter in the woods of Legend’s Run.
Psychic predictions, generations-old secrets, a town divided, and the possibility of falling in love with a hot and heroic werewolf are the perfect formula for what happens . . . once in a full moon.

My Review
 
 
 
This is the first book of the Once in a Full Moon Series. It is by Ellen Schreiber and is 320 pages long.
 
Celeste had a normal life. She had her two best friends, Ivy and Abby, and she had her boyfriend, Nash. She has been with her friends for years, never lied, and never broke up the group. Until, there was a new kid at school, Brandon Maddox. She went to see a physic only to find out her fate has been twisted. Will her walk home become something more? Who is this stranger? Why did fate just choose this for her?
 
I loved this book. It had suspense and stuff that you wouldn't expect. I love Brandon. He has great character, puts others' needs before his, and loves animals. This book had a GREAT ending, and I can't wait to read the rest of the series. It was hard to put down and I'm already starting on the next book. When I finish the series, I will start reading the second book of "Angels Dawn".


Apology

I must apologize for not posting in awhile. I am very busy with a project. It has to do with my heritage. I have learned a lot from it already and it's great to know. How many of you have cool ancestors? If you would like to tell me a story about an ancestor comment below or on my Facebook page.

Monday, August 31, 2015

Book Review: Supernaturally - The Paranormalcy Series

 
 
 
Synopsis
 
Evie finally has the normal life she's always longed for, but she's shocked to discover that being ordinary can be . . . kind of boring. So when she's given the opportunity to work for the International Paranormal Containment Agency again, she leaps at the chance.
But then Evie's faerie ex-boyfriend Reth appears, and tells her that a battle is brewing between the faerie courts that could throw the whole paranormal world into chaos. The prize in question? Evie herself.

My Review
 


This is the second book in the Paranormalcy series and is written by Kiersten White. It is 336 pages long.

Evie is finally free from IPCA and is starting at a normal life. Raquel calls her, though, and tells her that IPCA is in trouble and she is the only fix. Then, she meets Jack, who has the ability only a faerie should have. She learns a lot from him and they start to become friends. Evie tried to keep it a secret, because she didn't want to upset Lend. What Evie doesn't know is she was created for one purpose, to open gates. Will she be safe for long? How will Evie react to finding this out?

I liked this book as much as I liked the first book. It creates more suspense and you would never guess who is putting Evie in the most danger. I love the love that is happening throughout the book, both romance and friendship. I hope to read the third book soon. I wish I could interview the author and ask her questions.


Saturday, August 22, 2015

Book Review: Paranormalcy - The Paranormalcy Series


 
 
Synopsis

Evie’s always thought of herself as a normal teenager, even though she works for the International Paranormal Containment Agency, her ex-boyfriend is a faerie, she’s falling for a shape-shifter, and she’s the only person who can see through paranormals’ glamours.
But Evie’s about to realize that she may very well be at the center of a dark faerie prophecy promising destruction to all paranormal creatures.
So much for normal.

My Review
 
 
This book is written by Kiersten White and is 356 pages long.
 
Evie was in the hands of IPCA when they found her. She has the gift to see paranormals for what they truly are, so she was of good use. Everything was normal, sort of, until Lend came to IPCA. She started falling in love with the shifter. Only to learn that she is like him, them, paranormal. What will happen to her? How will she react to her new life and abilities?
 
I loved the book. The Harper Teen has many great books. I loved the main character, Evie's, appearance. I love all the drama and family in the book, too. It is a bit confusing, but becomes more clear at the end. There wasn't a cliff hanger, but the end makes you want to read the next book. I also liked how there was sort of a moral. When you here about the romance in the book, it makes you want to have that kind of love. It is also very suspenseful.
 
The world would be a very boring place if everyone was normal.




More About Me!!

I'm sorry I haven't been on in awhile. School is a time-sucker, so I've been busy. School started on August 13 and I'm kind of glad to be back on my schedule. I've had homework and less time to read since school has started, so if I haven't been on in a while you will know why. I have been reading a Truman Readers Award Nominee, which I will be posting tomorrow. I won't be able to read as much, but I'm still going to try to do to posts a week.

Also, I wanted to give more details about why I didn't like the gore in Zom-B. It wasn't really the gore, per say it was more the description of the gore. I have had my share of gore. I am currently into season 3 on "The Walking Dead" and have read many zombie books like: "Alice in Zombieland", half of "The Fury" and more. I plan on reading "Alice in Zombieland" again, so I can do a review on it. Anyway, the gore on Zom-B was revolting. The way the zombies turned was different. Bones jutting out of their fingers and very sharp teeth. The zombies used the bones jutting from their fingers to crack open the head and feed on the grey substance inside. Doesn't that paint a lovely picture in your head?

Saturday, August 15, 2015

Book Review: Zom-B - The Zom-B Series

 
 
 
Synopsis
 
When news reports start appearing of a zombie outbreak in Ireland, B's racist father thinks it's a joke-- but even if it isn't, he figures, it's ok to lose a few Irish.

B doesn't fully buy into Dad's racism, but figures it's easier to go along with it than to risk the fights and abuse that will surely follow sticking up for Muslims, blacks, or immigrants. And when dodging his fists doesn't work, B doesn't hesitate to take the piss out of kids at school with a few slaps or cruel remarks.

That is, until zombies attack the school. B is forced on a mad dash through the serpentine corridors of high school, making allegiances with anyone with enough gall to fight off their pursuers.
 
My Review
 
This book is written by Darren Shaun also known as one of the "Bestselling Author of Horror". It is 175 pages long, too.
 
A news report came in about a town close to Ireland where zombies have attacked people. A lot of the teens in Ireland thought it was a hoax, but later come to find out that it was very true. During a game of soccer in the gym people started running in through the doors. They were getting eaten by the zombies. B, his friends, and others started running toward the exit, only to find out that it was blocked. They lost a lot of people on the way and sacrificed others. What will they learn and how will they survive? Who will live, who will die, and who will be feasting on the others??
 
I thought the book was very graphic and gory. It was definitely horror. I hated how graphic it was. I would have liked the book more if it was a little less graphic. What's worse is I told myself that I wasn't going to read any more of the series, but at the end of the book is a major cliff-hanger that will make it to where you don't have any choice but to read the second book. Also, it was very confusing at points. I did like how the cussing was sort of lesser, because they used and Irish accent. So instead of saying the "A word" they said arse. I would have gave it a better rating if there was less gore, though.
 



#AuthorsAgainstBullying - Author's speak out video

If you have been following my blog for a while, you will have seen my posts on #AuthorsAgainstBullying.

After I started talking about being bullied, many authors started sending me videos, telling about their experiences of being bullied.

With the help of my mom, we put together a video of those stories as a way to start the movement.

Please watch and share the video!  Let's get the Authors Against Bullying movement going!

Wednesday, August 12, 2015

Have you Hugged your Librarian Today!!

I have told everyone about my story of becoming a victim of bullying, but I don't think I told the story about how I got even closer to my librarian.

Well, it all started when I chose to join Book Club. Everyday at lunch our group would eat lunch in the library and read or sometimes talk about the books we were reading. Well, then the principal changed the Book Club schedule, so we could only go to Book Club 3 days a week. I was getting bullied while I was eating, but I couldn't go to Book Club because the library was closed, so my librarian, Ms. Porter, let me into the library and asked me what was wrong. Since then, I've been able to talk to her about the bullying. When I told her about my blog she freaked out(in a good way), because I read a lot anyway. But, with a blog I have to read even more!!



***There Is Always Someone You Can Trust***

Tuesday, August 11, 2015

Book Review: Angels Dawn - The Dawn Trilogy

 
 
 
Synopsis
 
Dawn Huntington wants what every girl wants, a sweet sixteen birthday party with her friends, family, and some hot boys, but fate has other plans. On the night of Dawn's sixteenth birthday, she witnesses a crime she can't turn her back on, and the decisions she makes that night will change her life forever.

Never having been confronted with such violence, Dawn turns to a mysterious and beautiful boy named Angelo, only she can't remember what happens that night. To make things more complicated, Dawn is in a relationship with Angelo's complete opposite, Nate. Dawn doesn't want to hurt Nate, yet she can't shake her feelings for Angelo, even when she can't help but feel he's hiding something from her, and it could be something dark. Why is Angelo acting so weird around Bonita? Are they together? Are they really only friends?

Angelo may be trouble, but Dawn can't ignore her feelings for him. Dawn is at a crossroads. Should she choose love? Or friendship? Once Dawn finally finds the courage to choose, she thinks the drama is over. But Dawn wasn't expecting her choices to have such dire consequences.


Do you believe in love at first sight? But can one trust someone blindly? Can love overcome all the obstacles?

Is friendship just the beginning of love?
 
My Review
 
 


This is a great book by Komali da Silva. It is 279 pages long. It kind of reminds me of the show "Touched By An Angel".

Dawn had a great life. She has great friends, is really popular, has a nice boyfriend, and is turning 16. What she doesn't know is when she turns 16, her life is going to turn. This new family moves to town and she meets Angelo. Angelo and her immediately fall in love, but a secret between them might tear them apart. What secrets do they share and what will happen to Dawn?

I thought this book was great. I felt like I was part of the book, too! I like how the author describes the angels. And there is a twist that you would never expect.

Back from being MIA

Us Lollygaggers Just Wanna Have Fun!!
Hey guys, what's up, I'm sorry that I have not been doing reviews for the last 2 weeks. I have been busy with family and stayed with some family friends. I promise I will get back to reviewing books ASAP!!

I was going on vacation in Branson to Silver Dollar City or as some people call it Steal Your Dollar City!! I also have a picture to share with everyone. It was my last vacation before I have to go back to school. I'm starting 8th grade, yay(That was sarcasm).

 

Thursday, July 23, 2015

Book Review: Scarred

 
 
 
Synopsis
 
For those of us who come into the world different, we see it for what it really is.
Harsh.

Avery Chamberlin is special, unique. Beautiful words to gloss over the fact that
she is different. She has never felt like she fit in. Why should she?
She was reminded on a daily basis that she was not like her peers.
Flawed. Damaged. A freak.

Avery will have to come out of her shell to prove that even the bullies
have their own insecurities.

LIFE ISN’T ABOUT LABELS
 
My Review
 
 
This was one of the later bullying books that I received. I think the cover really caught my eye. It is 69 pages long and the author is Elizabeth Montgomery.
 
Avery was born with an "Orofacial Clefts"(Cleft Lip or/and Palate). Ever since she was in pre-school people have known she was different. After getting to middle school she finally realized that she just had Dylan as a friend, but in gym Dylan was seriously hurt and had to go to the hospital. She had to trust Blake. At some point she realized she was falling for him and decided to finally let someone other than Dylan in. After being asked to go to prom, she has a girls-day-out with her mom to get ready and meets another big surprise. What surprise awaits Avery? What will happen when she goes to prom?
 
I thought this was a great example of how cruel the world is and should make people think about their relationships with each other. It reminded me of my bullying situation toward the beginning. It was short, but explained a lot in those few chapters. For Example: Why bullying is bad, Why not to drink and drive, and many others. It only said the F word once, too.
 
If you want to learn more about Cleft Lip and Palate, go to CDC's official site.

Book Review: The Rise - The Originals Series

 
 
 
Synopsis
 

Family is power. The Original vampire family swore it to each other a thousand years ago. They pledged to remain together always and forever. But even when you're immortal, promises are hard to keep.

Arriving in New Orleans in 1722, Original vampire siblings Klaus, Elijah and Rebekah Mikaelson believe they've escaped their dangerous past. But the city is lawless, a haven for witches and werewolves unwilling to share territory. The siblings are at their mercy…especially after Klaus meets the beautiful and mysterious Vivianne. Her impending marriage is key to ending the war between the supernatural factions—and Klaus's attraction to her could destroy the uneasy alliance. As Elijah works toward securing a piece of the city for his family, and Rebekah fights her unexpected feelings for a French captain, will Klaus's volatile desires bring their world crashing down—and tear them apart for good?
 
My Review
 
Mom got me this book at Easter. I had been asking for it for a while and was so psyched to actually have it! I can't wait to review the book. It is written by Julie Plec and it is 352 pages long.
 
The Originals have been in New Orleans for nine years and still none will accept them, after the "misunderstanding" that took place when they first got there. While at a truce party between the witches and werewolves, Klaus lays eyes upon the most beautiful woman he has ever seen. Her name is Vivianne; and what he doesn't know is that she is both a werewolf and a witch. The party was the engagement that brought the truce together. So, while Elijah looks for a safe place for him and his family to stay, Rebecca goes in search of the army needed to protect them from the werewolf/witch alliance. What neither of them realize, is that Klaus has no intention of keeping the peace. The peace was broken when Vivianne chose to see Klaus as more than an Original. Vivianne was then forced to make a big decision that would impact not just her, but Klaus as well. What will Vivianne choose? How will the Originals survive the alliance?
 
I loved this book. It was still really different from the show, though. The descriptions were very detailed, as well. I cant wait to sink my teeth into the second book, LOL!
 
Here are some examples of the differences:
 
1. Hailey is in the show, but Vivianne replaces her in the book.
 
2. In the book, Rebecca falls in love and leaves her brothers behind, which doesn't happen in the show.
 
3. There are a lot of unfamiliar names in the book.  


Monday, July 20, 2015

Book Review: Ghost Hand - The PSS Chronicles


 
 
Synopsis
 
Seventeen-year-old Olivia Black has a rare birth defect known as Psyche Sans Soma, or PSS. Instead of a right hand made of flesh and blood, she was born with a hand made of ethereal energy.

How does Olivia handle being the girl with the ghost hand? Well, she's a little bit morbid and a whole lot snarky.

Her mother thinks her obsession with death, black clothing, and the local cemetery is a bid for attention. But when Marcus, the new guy in Olivia's calculus class, stares at her like she's a freak, Olivia doesn't like it. And when her hand goes rogue, doing things she never imagined possible, Olivia finds herself running for her life with Marcus from a group of men bent on taking the power of her hand for their own nefarious purposes.

*GHOST HAND was a semifinalist for The Kindle Book Review 2013 Best Indie Book Awards in the Young Adult category and a 2013 Cybil Award nominee.
 
My Review
 

My mom got this book emailed to her from the author, Ripley Patton, for me to review on my blog. I'm sorry it took so long for me to review. I was going to review it last week, but I was running out of time. As most of you know, by looking at the cover, the author is Ripley Patton and the book it 386 pages long.

Olivia was born with a rare case called PSS, Psyche Sans Soma, on her hand. She has heard of other people that have it, but had never seen any until now when she learned she had the ability to pull helpful items out of people. She needs to learn how to control it, and fast, because the CamFers(People that extract and kill people with PSS) are onto her. She meets this guy named Marcus, who says he can help her be safe from the CamFers. After she goes with Marcus, she meets other people with PSS that are all trying to get to more PSS patients before the CamFers do. While they are trying to get something to give them an advantage, Emma, Olivia's best friend, looks for her and finds her. What Olivia doesn't know is that her being friends with Emma puts her in danger and Emma gets captured! What will they find out about the CamFers?

I loved the concept of this book and at some parts I couldn't put the book down. I think some of the secrets that get revealed are so unexpected that it just blows your mind. It is a bit confusing at times during the book, but it clears up once you get closer to the end. Now for the worst of my review. I thought that my blog was kind of self - explanatory; I review books for teens, tweens, and clean YA. The F-BOMB was in this book at least 20 times and there was a naked scene (though it wasn't overly detailed). If my blog handled adult books I would have gave it a better rating. Other than that, though, it was a great book and I would love to read the second book, "Ghost Hold" but I worry that it contains a lot more of the cussing.

 


Sunday, July 19, 2015

Book Review: Tales from a Not - So - Talented Pop Star - The Dork Diaries Series

 
 
 
Synopsis
 
Rachel Renee Russell serves up more laughs and adorable illustrations in the next installment of the bestselling DORK DIARIES series.

Nikki Maxwell has been doing everything she can to keep everyone at school from learning the truth--that she's there on scholarship in exchange for her Dad working as the school's exterminator. The last thing Nikki needs is having her friends and--worst case scenario--her crush, Brandon, associating her with the humongous roach on top of her Dad's van! Now it looks like her secret could be about to come out, and Nikki's willing to go to any zany and wacky length to prevent that from happening. The timing seems perfect when a major talent competition is announced with a school scholarship offered as the top prize. Nikki loves to sing and dance and now she gets to have tons of fun with her friends while competing for a chance to free her Dad from his obligation! (And free herself from all that potential damage to her reputation . . .) Once again, hijinks and misunderstandings aplenty ensue, as well as more hilarious and heartwarming moments with Nikki and her friends.
 
My Review
 

I have read the first two books from my local library, so I thought it was time to read and review this one.  It has 311 pages. The author, Rachel Renee Russel, to me, has a cool name. Her initials would be RRR ( Triple R.)!!

Zoey, Chloe, and Nikki are BFF's and have been for a long time. The dance really made a difference to the dorky teens, especially Nikki. Do you ever feel better after singing the Queasy Cheesy theme song? It just makes matters worse for Nikki. All was going well until everyone found out about the bug infestation; and to make matters worse Nikki got a tuition bill in the mail and is afraid to tell anyone. At school, they are holding the 10th Annual WCD Talent Show, but Nikki is being blackmailed by the CCP's(Cute, Cool, Popular) so if she goes through with the talent show the whole student body will know about Queasy Cheesy. Still everyone finds out, so she tries to go through with it. Bad stuff happens like: Nikki's friends go join the CCP's, she finds out that someone has been writing "CANCELED" on her sign - up sheets for the talent show, and when she finally gets a band together, they still can't come up with a name!! What else could go wrong?

This book reminded me of how cruel and devious the world is. What happened to treat others as you want to be treated? For future reference to anyone who has been bullied, if someone calls you a geek, nerd, or a dork, it shouldn't bother you...It's better to be unique than average. The only thing I didn't like about the book was the misspelled words. I know it was meant to be like that, because it is a diary, but if we wanted to teach people to spell like that we should definitely make sure they have a copy of "Spelling for Dummies" at hand. LOL! :)



Saturday, July 18, 2015

Book reviews for teens, by teens!

This is a post by Belle's momma. 

As a mom, it is my job to oversee my daughter's blog and make sure that the books she's reading are appropriate, as well as the emails she is getting for reviews are safe.  So I am constantly skimming books, checking her email box as well as checking the comments left on her Facebook page and here on her blog.

Belle has recently encountered several individuals asking her for reviews.  Apparently they did not even look at her blog or facebook page because everywhere it states "Books for Teens and Clean YA".

It makes me sad that I have to publically come out and say "Come on people, use your eyes and use some common sense."

Yes, as author's you want reviews. I get that. I am an author after all.  However, you need to choose genre appropriate blogs to seek reviews.  If you book has excessive cussing, especially the F-Bomb, then it is NOT a teen or clean YA book (no matter how much you want it to be).  If your book has sex scenes, even if they fade to black when the actual act happens, it still does not qualify for teen and clean YA (it may be YA but it's certainly not clean when it describes hands groping certain body parts then it fades to black before they have sex).  It's sad to me that we live in a society that people believe sex scenes and sever cussing belong in teen books.

I don't say these things to be mean. There is certainly a place for your books somewhere, but they don't belong here. 

The reason my daughter wanted to start this blog was because there are no teen-ran blogs that recommend books specifically for teens.  She wanted to give other teens a place to go where they could find safe and clean books.  So that is what she is doing.

So here comes the very hard to hear part.

If she receives anymore books that include the F-Bomb or sex scenes, the review will be a very low star review due to the inability of the author or PR firm in question to see that this is for teens.

Thank you for understanding.