tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-75502134105409992862024-03-18T21:58:37.027-05:00Reading in the CornerJessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05620317510135783572noreply@blogger.comBlogger494125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-33078025871183426652015-11-25T09:00:00.000-06:002015-11-25T09:00:05.863-06:00Lizard Radio by Pat Schmatz<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<strong>Release Date:</strong> 8 September 2015 | <strong>Publisher:</strong> Candlewick| <strong>Format:</strong> Hardcover</div>
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<strong><em>Review:</em></strong><br />
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Set in a near-future world, <i>Lizard Radio</i> opens with our main character, Kivali (or Lizard), being dropped off at CropCamp by her usually non-conforming guardian, Sheila. CropCamp is where teenagers go essentially to become good little conforming citizens, learn a trade, and find a like-minded, heterosexual partner. Kivali, however, doesn't fit the norms (she's a "bender" in this world's lingo--someone who doesn't conform to a gender) and has a hard time fitting in at CropCamp (well, she's always had trouble fitting in anywhere really). It's not ALL bad for her at camp because she does love being outdoors and she makes some real friends. However, she falls in love/lust with another girl and that's really just another thing that sets her apart. <i>Lizard Radio</i> is the kind of book that I wanted to love. It has good writing, a unique storyline, and it truly does deftly explore gender queerness in a sensitive way. I think what brought this one down some for me was that I found myself wanting and needing more world-building along the way. I didn't get a clear picture of what was really going on in this world and why it was the way it was. So while this book has some REALLY good things going for it, I simply couldn't fall in love with it. It was a quick read and its exploration of gender and sexuality definitely secure it a place on my library shelves. <br />
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.JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06306750484772163400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-35618955142844945352015-11-23T10:26:00.001-06:002015-11-23T10:26:36.959-06:00Fatal Fever: Tracking Down Typhoid Mary by Gail Jarrow<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<strong>Release Date:</strong> 10 March 2015 | <strong>Publisher:</strong> Calkins Creek | <strong>Format:</strong> Hardcover</div>
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<strong><em>Review:</em></strong><br />
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The Ebola outbreak of 2014 may be the scariest virus outbreak in recent memory but it is certainly not the first time that the world--or the United States--has experienced widespread disease and panic. In <i>Fatal Fever</i>, Jarrow brings readers to the frontlines in the fight against one such epidemic--typhoid fever. Typhoid fever killed thousands of Americans each year and Jarrow spares little detail in informing the reader about the unsanitary conditions that contributed to its spread. The story focuses in on the intersecting lives of three key players in the fight against the disease--Mary, the woman who unwittingly spread the disease; the epidemiologist who found her; and the health department that sealed her fate. Jarrow crafts the story into a compelling narrative paired with images that make this a quick and fascinating read that will make you want to get up and wash your hands! I would love to see this book paired in a classroom with an examination of the Ebola outbreak; I think the comparisons could be interesting and make this highly relevant.<br />
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.JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06306750484772163400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-25955253384547624772015-11-19T14:11:00.000-06:002015-11-19T14:11:19.459-06:00City of Savages by Lee Kelly<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<strong>Release Date:</strong> 3 February 2015 | <strong>Publisher:</strong> Saga Press | <strong>Format:</strong> Audio</div>
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Sky, Phee, and their mom have been living and surviving on Manhattan ever since the Third World War turned the island into a POW camp. The island is ruled by the iron fist of Rolladin, the island "native" appointed by the conquering Red Allies to maintain control. The world, however, is not quite what the inhabitants of the island have been led to believe. Newcomers threaten to expose long-kept secrets and drive Sky and Phee to look for answers--and what they find along the way is not at all what they expected. City of Savages offer an action-filled, compelling read that I think will be appealing to fans of YA dystopian novels, but it wasn't without its flaws. While the story is told from both sisters' perspectives, I found their voices to be incredibly similar and at times difficult to differentiate (even with the added benefit of two different audio narrators). I found myself wishing for two more distinct personalities to come through. My other criticism of this book is less about the book itself (which, like I said, I really enjoyed) and more about the marketing. For me, this read solidly like a YA novel--full of action and the requisite suspension of disbelief (because of lacking details)--but it was published (and is shelved at my local public library) as an adult novel. I think readers who largely enjoy the more nuanced, detailed adult fiction might be disappointed by this book. That being said, this has a lot of potential to be a hit with teens and adults who read YA, especially since it is a standalone novel (YAY STANDALONE NOVELS!)<br />
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.JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06306750484772163400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-87765115520888267512015-11-18T13:46:00.000-06:002015-11-19T14:05:46.658-06:00Alive by Chandler Baker<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<strong>Release Date:</strong> 9 June 2015 | <strong>Publisher:</strong> Disney-Hyperion | <strong>Format:</strong> Hardcover</div>
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<i><b>Review: .</b></i><br />
<i><b><br /></b></i>After years of waiting for a heart transplant, Stella miraculously receives one but it comes with some strange consequences--recurring pain, nightmares, and hallucinations. Despite these effects, Stella is determined to make the most out of her second change and that includes going after new student and bad boy Levi Zin. Stella's magnetic attraction to Levi is intense from the beginning and eventually she begins to question the forces pulling them together and why she experiences less pain in his presence. With the help of her friend, Henry, she begins to investigate and finds that there's much more to Levi than meets the eye.
Thrown in brassy BFF, Brynn, and paranormal twists, and you have this creepy, engaging read. The plotline is a bit predictable but with a creepy atmosphere that will appeal to fans of paranormal suspense and horror. <br />
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JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06306750484772163400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-83733163277506371822015-11-04T14:48:00.000-06:002015-11-04T14:48:38.236-06:00Oh, How Time Flies...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I knew it had been awhile since I posted anything on this blog. Life has a way of unexpectedly getting in the way of keeping up with things like this. However, when I logged in, I realized that my last post was in January 2014. <u style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">2014?!</u> In January 2014, I was seven months pregnant with my daughter! Now she is a crazy 19 month old toddler. Time seems to have simply flown past me while I let this blog just sit here!<br />
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So, my GOAL is to start posting again. Yay! I feel like I finally have time to get reading done and I want to start writing reviews again. I miss writing reviews because it made me seriously sit and think about my reading. I'm tentatively excited to get back to blogging, but I certainly don't promise miracles. Hopefully I'll be able to balance family life, work (and my work blog), and this a little more efficiently. :)<br />
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Looking forward to diving back into this fun adventure! <br />
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So, do YOU have any tips and tricks for finding that family/work/blogging balance? Please share!JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06306750484772163400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-2132462055172438942014-01-13T07:00:00.000-06:002014-01-13T07:00:06.239-06:00YA Book Review: Crash Into You<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Release Date: </b>26 November 2013<br />
<b>Publisher:</b> Harlequin Teen<br />
<b>Format:</b> Hardcover<br />
<b>Source: </b>Own/Purchased<br />
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Goodreads description:</div>
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<i>The girl with straight As, designer clothes and the perfect life-that's who people expect Rachel Young to be. So the private-school junior keeps secrets from her wealthy parents and overbearing brothers...and she's just added two more to the list. One involves racing strangers down dark country roads in her Mustang GT. The other? Seventeen-year-old Isaiah Walker-a guy she has no business even talking to. But when the foster kid with the tattoos and intense gray eyes comes to her rescue, she can't get him out of her mind.
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Isaiah has secrets, too. About where he lives, and how he really feels about Rachel. The last thing he needs is to get tangled up with a rich girl who wants to slum it on the south side for kicks-no matter how angelic she might look.
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But when their shared love of street racing puts both their lives in jeopardy, they have six weeks to come up with a way out. Six weeks to discover just how far they'll go to save each other.</i></blockquote>
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<i><b>My Thoughts...</b></i><br />
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Katie McGarry's other two books, <i>Pushing the Limits</i> and <i>Dare You To</i>, were definitely some of my favorite contemporary reads of the last year plus. She writes with a very authentic YA voice that draws me in quickly and easily. <i>Crash Into You</i> did the same for me and was a great read to start off 2014 on the right foot (even if it was my 4th book of the year...).<br />
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Isaiah's character has basically haunted me since the first book in this series. He was so dark and broody on the outside but we never really got to see what was going on inside his head. It was eye-opening to get a more in-depth look into his personality and start to see him in a different light. Usually, I'm not a fan of romantic relationships that change one person or the other but I felt like Rachel really opened Isaiah up to the possibilities in front of him and allowed him to dream for what was probably the first time in his life.<br />
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Rachel, well, I didn't think I was going to like Rachel at first. I thought she was going to be a typical slightly whiny, wimpy rich girl with some problem and an attraction to bad boys. But, thankfully, she wasn't that way at all. Her family situation was truly a disaster, although no one on the outside looking in would ever know and you could almost feel her desperation to break free and be herself. She also knew her family was well off and didn't try to hide it or turn her back on it. She simply wanted them to accept her the way she truly was inside and she found that acceptance with Isaiah (after a little prodding).<br />
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Isaiah and Rachel may be the "life of this party" so to speak but the other characters in this one really pulled the whole story together for me. We get fantastic glimpses into the other characters that we saw in the previous two books, moreso than we ever really did in the second book. Each minor character has a crucial role to play and didn't feel like a throwaway.<br />
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<i>Crash Into You</i> was an enjoyable read, even if it was a tad predictable (like any good romance), and I look forward to more from the author. The ending has a sort of rushed feeling to it and I wasn't sure how I felt about it as a way to wrap up the storyline. However, neither of those minor issues will stop me from reading the next book in this series because they are really fun, quick reads. Ms. McGarry's books are great read for YA romance-obsessed teenagers who enjoy the angst and the kissing that books like this offer.<br />
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JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05620317510135783572noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-35520224389796637582014-01-10T07:00:00.001-06:002014-01-10T07:00:04.243-06:00Friday Fling! - Lucky Number Four<a href="http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa322/readingcorner11/Blog%20Buttons/dreamstimefree_1870725-1-1-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Photobucket" border="0" src="http://i1192.photobucket.com/albums/aa322/readingcorner11/Blog%20Buttons/dreamstimefree_1870725-1-1-1.jpg" height="200" width="197" /></a><br />
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<i>During <b>Friday Fling</b> , I share with you a "just
for fun" romance book or novella that I read and really enjoyed. It will generally be a "mini review" instead of a full review and I'll stray from my YA focus into the realm of new adult/adult romance (which, in case you're curious, is my not-so-guilty pleasure). These are books that I think are fun, quick (sexy) reads that are definitely worth checking out!</i> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVuJc5ddqawL7mPr0f0_8afH5aJ3xKK-UFB67oD4zwhtyDgwE0a7OEwXktql5SeQvFT_AvHCNS9mRX45kqV-lTQNhFIC6jVC-8WEBQsV4hbL32zrLCkZSS557YpYfJne8nWuAnQItOLvRc/s1600/Four.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVuJc5ddqawL7mPr0f0_8afH5aJ3xKK-UFB67oD4zwhtyDgwE0a7OEwXktql5SeQvFT_AvHCNS9mRX45kqV-lTQNhFIC6jVC-8WEBQsV4hbL32zrLCkZSS557YpYfJne8nWuAnQItOLvRc/s1600/Four.jpg" height="320" width="211" /></a></div>
<i><b>Publisher: C.A. Kunz, LLC</b></i><br />
<i><b>Release Date: January 2014</b></i><br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Dora needs somewhere new to live and fast. While living with her now married best friends seemed like a good idea and totally doable, their sex life has taken off and Dora is finding it a little hard to concentrate on her own life--not to mention hearing all the good sex is making her wish for some of her own! A serendipitous roommate posting at the grocery store and three pushy models later, Dora is moving in with three drool-worthy men and she may have truly opened her own Pandora's box. Attraction ensues, as one might suspect with three hottie roommates, but things are not necessarily quite as Dora is perceiving them<br />
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Ms. Pandora...well...she wasn't my favorite character ever in a new adult romance. She's clearly a beautiful young woman who can't fathom that she is, even with multiple handsome young men and her best friend drilling it into her head frequently. While this was a fun and quick read, I felt like, for me, the character connections fell a little flat. I wanted to like Pandora more (and to stop calling her Dora because does anyone NOT think of the little cartoon character when they say that name?), but something just didn't click there for me. I also wasn't quite sold on the main love interest's instantaneous attraction to her. I'm no stranger to love at first sight storylines but this one was lacking something and I'm not quite sure what. That being said, I did enjoy this author's writing and general storytelling and I would probably pick up something from her in the future.</blockquote>
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JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05620317510135783572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-8758037023000238302014-01-08T07:00:00.000-06:002014-01-08T07:00:06.492-06:00YA Book Review: Proxy by Alex London<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizfhecw84A02cLtXOcALVETI-sXYtXerGd7yu4J79-9uRvYGddOhgEd-IghpdrLfu0owxP2LqO-7G8uKJ3XyCLiyxmxlHg1FBSLg1DHo44N0FAEHQm9hRMwH0V8hyWcAUZdQfVRkPfC2Cc/s1600/Proxy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizfhecw84A02cLtXOcALVETI-sXYtXerGd7yu4J79-9uRvYGddOhgEd-IghpdrLfu0owxP2LqO-7G8uKJ3XyCLiyxmxlHg1FBSLg1DHo44N0FAEHQm9hRMwH0V8hyWcAUZdQfVRkPfC2Cc/s320/Proxy.jpg" height="320" width="211" /></a></div>
<b>Release Date: </b>18 June 2013<br />
<b>Publisher: </b>Philomel<br />
<b>Format: </b>Hardcover<br />
<b>Source: </b>Own<br />
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<br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16101023-proxy?from_search=true">Goodreads</a> description:</div>
<blockquote>
<i>Knox was born into one of the City’s wealthiest families. A Patron, he has everything a boy could possibly want—the latest tech, the coolest clothes, and a Proxy to take all his punishments. When Knox breaks a vase, Syd is beaten. When Knox plays a practical joke, Syd is forced to haul rocks. And when Knox crashes a car, killing one of his friends, Syd is branded and sentenced to death.
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Syd is a Proxy. His life is not his own.
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Then again, neither is Knox’s. Knox and Syd have more in common than either would guess. So when Knox and Syd realize that the only way to beat the system is to save each other, they flee. Yet Knox’s father is no ordinary Patron, and Syd is no ordinary Proxy. The ensuing cross-country chase will uncover a secret society of rebels, test both boys’ resolve, and shine a blinding light onto a world of those who owe and those who pay. Some debts, it turns out, cannot be repaid.</i></blockquote>
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<i><b>My Thoughts...</b></i><br />
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I picked this book for my book club to read for our upcoming January meeting and I'll admit up front that I picked it for two main reasons: a non-white, gay main character. Sure, we haven't read a lot of science fiction so there was that too, but sometimes regardless of whether I think people will like this book or not, I like to find ways to incorporate more diversity where I can find it. This one fit that bill perfectly so we dove in.<br />
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From the beginning, Syd and Knox couldn't be more different. Syd has a hard life, made even more difficult by the debt's that he is repaying basically to society by being Knox's proxy--the one who takes the punishment's when Knox, typical party-boy rich kid, screws up. He's managed to make it through everything thrown his way so far and he can actually see the light at the end of the tunnel--the moment when he will be free from the debt that he owes basically for simply existing and being poor. He's resourceful on top of it all and he generally has it together. <br />
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Knox, on the other hand, has had pretty much everything handed to him. Syd takes his punishments for him and while Knox is forced to observe, he has become rather detached from the process. He believes that Syd is obviously paying a debt and that's how society should/must work. Knox is the kind of character that annoys the heck out of you as a reader but there's something about him that makes you want to like him and want him to change his ways.<br />
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The story is definitely fast-paced and full of action and explosions. One of my favorite things about this book, however, is the fact that while the narrator is gay and that fact is talked about on various occasions, it isn't the focus of the novel. There isn't even a romantic interest, which in my mind makes this a great read to suggest to any and all teen guys. The diversity exists in our world and it is books like this that, for me, offer chances to become more accepting through exposure. That's just my take. :)<br />
<br />
<i>Proxy</i> may not have been my favorite science fiction/ dystopian read ever but I think that can be partially contributed to the fact that there were so many questions left truly unanswered at the end of the novel--so many things that I still wanted to know--and the way that it wrapped up so neatly. Perhaps the sequel will offer some much needed answers? I suppose I will find out in June. I would recommend this book to fans of Malinda Lo's <i>Adaptation</i> and readers of fast-paced science fiction.<br />
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There is a really great interview with the author on School Library Journal. Check it out <a href="http://www.slj.com/2013/07/authors-illustrators/interviews/marie-lu-and-alex-london-talk-about-debt-society-and-proxy-sljteen-interview/#_">here</a>!</div>
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JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05620317510135783572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-3959380230321448152014-01-06T07:00:00.000-06:002014-01-06T07:00:09.931-06:00YA Book Review: Everbound by Brodi Ashton<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjszqcQMNamBqLPbtHAcoW87GaBi1gDXgv-6pJsue_aWDA1Hlrl9no9j66A4cvJVfX8WsWDBLMyMskyFh6npu-qbb9n5wkRUY-h27Bl5qHIafVxWmCPx-dIh9UFNZVNePi0DAsFdYJdvXaa/s1600/Everbound.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjszqcQMNamBqLPbtHAcoW87GaBi1gDXgv-6pJsue_aWDA1Hlrl9no9j66A4cvJVfX8WsWDBLMyMskyFh6npu-qbb9n5wkRUY-h27Bl5qHIafVxWmCPx-dIh9UFNZVNePi0DAsFdYJdvXaa/s320/Everbound.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<b>Release Date: </b>22 January 2013<br />
<b>Publisher: </b>Balzer + Bray<br />
<b>Format: </b>eBook<br />
<b>Source: </b>Own<br />
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<br />
<a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/13115995-everbound">Goodreads</a> description:</div>
<blockquote>
<i>Nikki Beckett could only watch as her boyfriend, Jack, sacrificed himself to save her, taking her place in the Tunnels of the Everneath for eternity — a debt that should’ve been hers. She’s living a borrowed life, and she doesn’t know what to do with the guilt. And every night Jack appears in her dreams, lost and confused and wasting away.
<br /><br />
Desperate for answers, Nikki turns to Cole, the immortal bad boy who wants to make her his queen — and the one person least likely to help. But his heart has been touched by everything about Nikki, and he agrees to assist her in the only way he can: by taking her to the Everneath himself.
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Nikki and Cole descend into the Everneath, only to discover that their journey will be more difficult than they’d anticipated — and more deadly. But Nikki vows to stop at nothing to save Jack — even if it means making an incredible sacrifice of her own.</i></blockquote>
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<i><b><br /></b></i><i><b>My Thoughts...</b></i><br />
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It's been a long time since I read the first book in this trilogy, so I did have to return to my <a href="http://readinginthecorner.blogspot.com/2012/01/arc-ya-book-review-everneath-by-brodi.html">original review</a> for a bit of a recap. <i>Everbound</i> picks up fairly quickly after <i>Everneath</i>'s ending with little recap, which I often appreciate but can be disconcerting if it's been awhile. Jack is in the Tunnels in Nikki's place and she is bound and determined to find a way to get him out by whatever means necessary.<br />
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While I remember quite enjoying the first book, there was something about this one that actually made me like it almost better. There was a decent bit of action and adventure as Nikki attempts and then actually makes it to the Everneath in her quest to rescue Jack. As his anchor in the real world, she slowly feels him start to slip away and she knows she's running out of time. She is desperate enough to recruit Cole's help, even though she's knows that he has no reason to want to return Jack, her love, and she can't fully trust him. Even so, they take the journey into the depths together at much risk.<br />
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I still really like Nikki as a main character. She is a determined young woman with her mind and heart set on a goal. Where in the first book it took some time for her to grow on me, I genuinely enjoyed reading from her perspective this time through. I missed seeing more of Jack, who is absent for obvious reasons, and Cole proved even trickier than I had previously imagined.<br />
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The ending of the book was a twist that I possibly should have but didn't see coming and it has me genuinely excited to see what Ms. Ashton has in store for the trilogy conclusion, which will thankfully be released this month! I think that teen fans of good mythology-based series such as Aimee Carter's Goddess Test series or Josephine Angelini's Starcrossed series will find another enjoyable read in this one.<br />
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JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06306750484772163400noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-10757834276223319722014-01-03T10:10:00.001-06:002014-01-03T10:10:08.825-06:002014 Reading/Blogging "Resolution"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEuExP8gIW_xrC2C9p48rsqhc79vHM0NStlrRuw1cUgaWjlGChxxghdrKwjxqICvOsieAlq0dug3kFdwZ3CXu4g3YVuhDTGDlHXvLyCp1B3PbxvMzxnJCSdW8Cw2-hzT2UkwqwftR2qo0I/s1600/colorful-pile-of-books1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEuExP8gIW_xrC2C9p48rsqhc79vHM0NStlrRuw1cUgaWjlGChxxghdrKwjxqICvOsieAlq0dug3kFdwZ3CXu4g3YVuhDTGDlHXvLyCp1B3PbxvMzxnJCSdW8Cw2-hzT2UkwqwftR2qo0I/s320/colorful-pile-of-books1.jpg" width="312" /></a></div>
I realize that I haven't posted for a LONG time (*gasp* has it REALLY been since AUGUST?!) The truth is that between pregnancy and the second year of my "new" job as a school librarian, I've been too busy or sick to really read and especially to read well enough to actually review books. I didn't even meet my 2013 goal of reading 200 books. (Sad, really, considering I read 150 before July!)<br />
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So...where does that leave this lonely little blog? My thoughts at this moment are that I want to "revive" it a little but I don't want to stress about it at all. I mean, I think the little bundle of joy coming in March will be plenty of stress so I want this to be my fun thing, like it was intended to be from the beginning. I was looking at how my blog evolved over its first almost two years of life and the difference between those first few posts and the more recent ones is interesting. Back when I started, I didn't care AT ALL about followers or review copies or stats. I just wanted a fun place to talk about books and somewhere to record my personal thoughts on a book.<br />
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So, my 2014 blogging "resolution" is to get back to basics and make this fun. Will I continue to lose followers? Maybe but that's not why I do this. Will I review books that people aren't necessarily currently interested in? Yeah, probably, because I am SO backlogged in my reading. Will I participate in memes and hops, etc.? Maybe but only on a very limited basis based on what I really WANT to do.<br />
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There you have it. While I'm going to continue this blog, I see it as more of a fun outlet for the reading that I do personally (and kind of professionally...seeing as I am a high school librarian). I want to remember the things that I read and use this to help me grow as a reader and a librarian. Stick around if you'd like...or not. :)JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06306750484772163400noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-43224818681703767772013-08-10T16:53:00.000-05:002013-08-10T16:53:18.092-05:00Book Review: TMI by Patty Blount<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNhyG8LFCjPJzbdljj2EVEyuqDxJtCrTazbfOX89Nbb0001EkHE3YYhiQysi4j1bE03ZGe5B-FaiJNH4s8k5HOMZEtXDUY5CDx-PmddWkcU1z-v30HzP7r4PPLkIq3ed1xM7BtnRBMV40I/s1600/TMI.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNhyG8LFCjPJzbdljj2EVEyuqDxJtCrTazbfOX89Nbb0001EkHE3YYhiQysi4j1bE03ZGe5B-FaiJNH4s8k5HOMZEtXDUY5CDx-PmddWkcU1z-v30HzP7r4PPLkIq3ed1xM7BtnRBMV40I/s320/TMI.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><b>Release Date: </b>6 August 2013<br /><b>Publisher: </b>Sourcebooks Fire<br /><b>Format: </b>eARC<br /><b>Source: </b>Publisher via NetGalley<br /><br />Get a copy! <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1402273401/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1402273401&linkCode=as2&tag=readinthecorn-20">Amazon</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=readinthecorn-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1402273401" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br />Goodreads description:</span></div>
<blockquote>
<i style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Best friends don’t lie.<br />
Best friends don’t ditch you for a guy.<br />
Best friends don’t post your deepest, darkest secrets online.<br /><br />
Bailey’s falling head-over-high-heels for Ryder West, a mysterious gamer she met online. A guy she’s never met in person. Her best friend, Meg, doesn’t trust smooth-talking Ryder. He’s just a picture-less profile.<br /><br />
When Bailey starts blowing Meg off to spend more virtual quality time with her new crush, Meg decides it’s time to prove Ryder’s a phony.<br /><br />
But one stupid little secret posted online turns into a friendship-destroying feud to answer the question:<br />
Who is Ryder West?</i></blockquote>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><i><b><br /></b></i><i><b>My Thoughts...</b></i></span></div>
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<a name='more'></a><br />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><i>TMI</i> was an interesting and timely read that will appeal to many younger readers.</span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><b>What I Liked:</b></span><br />
<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">The topic matter in this book is very timely and tackles important topics--Internet privacy, cyberbullying, and social networking. It hits home the idea that what you do on the internet can hurt others and that you can never truly know who someone else is online--both important messages for today's young teens.</span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">I really enjoyed both Meg and Bailey as characters. They are both young women searching for their place in the bigger world and struggling with growing up (and growing apart). I liked Bailey's aspirations for video game design and her video game playing. It was a fun part of her personality that we don't always see attached to young women.</span><br />
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<b>Less Adored Things:</b><br />
The novel as a whole felt a little young, if that makes sense. I work with high school students and I felt like some of this friend drama seemed a little junior high. That's not to say that high school girls don't do mean things like this online--good heavens, do they ever! I think that the girls' reactions felt a little young. (Note: this is not really a BAD thing. I would love to see this book in junior high libraries.)<br />
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<b>Overall...</b><br />
This is a timely, important book that many young teens will find spot on with their experiences. I would highly recommend it for 8-9th grade readers especially.<br />
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JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05620317510135783572noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-67020904684169075622013-08-06T08:00:00.000-05:002013-08-10T17:27:55.257-05:00Review and Giveaway: Infinityglass by Myra McEntire<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6UpllTFCCOyHpdjuJoiHqE1mRimwwnTPQ5naqL109JZ_A7KwWucS9Ty7KlKoX-VaeIZXYFH_hoHl7vzb-JJfS2PiMa_qRj3BvKwX7-qcJ7bJ51KQriLPX80bEB4Lmz1gFD3uUtSDqqDc8/s1600/Infinityglass.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6UpllTFCCOyHpdjuJoiHqE1mRimwwnTPQ5naqL109JZ_A7KwWucS9Ty7KlKoX-VaeIZXYFH_hoHl7vzb-JJfS2PiMa_qRj3BvKwX7-qcJ7bJ51KQriLPX80bEB4Lmz1gFD3uUtSDqqDc8/s320/Infinityglass.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<b>Release Date: </b>6 August 2013<br />
<b>Publisher: </b>EgmontUSA<br />
<b>Format: </b>Hardcover<br />
<b>Source: </b>Publisher & Media Masters Publicity<br />
<br />
Get a copy! <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1606844415/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1606844415&linkCode=as2&tag=readinthecorn-20">Amazon</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=readinthecorn-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1606844415" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
(Kindle editions of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004J4WMSQ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004J4WMSQ&linkCode=as2&tag=readinthecorn-20">Hourglass</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=readinthecorn-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B004J4WMSQ" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005O0ZUEC/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B005O0ZUEC&linkCode=as2&tag=readinthecorn-20">Timepiece</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=readinthecorn-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B005O0ZUEC" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> are only $1.39 right now!!)<br />
<div>
<br />
Goodreads description:</div>
<blockquote>
<i>The Hourglass is a secret organization focused on the study of manipulating time, and its members — many of them teenagers -have uncanny abilities to make time work for them in mysterious ways. Inherent in these powers is a responsibility to take great care, because altering one small moment can have devastating consequences for the past, present, and future. But some time travelers are not exactly honorable, and sometimes unsavory deals must be struck to maintain order.
<br /><br />
With the Infinityglass (central to understanding and harnessing the time gene) at large, the hunt is on to find it before someone else does.
<br /><br />
But the Hourglass has an advantage. Lily, who has the ability to locate anything lost, has determined that the Infinityglass isn't an object. It's a person. And the Hourglass must find him or her first. But where do you start searching for the very key to time when every second could be the last?</i></blockquote>
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<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b>My Thoughts...</b></i><br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><i><b>Warning:</b> there will probably be spoilers in this if you haven't read the first two books in the trilogy! The good news you can currently get both of them for an insanely good price on Amazon! (<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004J4WMSQ/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B004J4WMSQ&linkCode=as2&tag=readinthecorn-20">Hourglass</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=readinthecorn-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B004J4WMSQ" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B005O0ZUEC/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B005O0ZUEC&linkCode=as2&tag=readinthecorn-20">Timepiece</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=readinthecorn-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B005O0ZUEC" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />)</i><br />
<br />
In the third and final installment, Ms. McEntire managed to win my heart for yet two more characters and splendidly wrap up a great trilogy.<br />
<br />
<b>What I Liked:</b><br />
First and foremost--Dune and Hallie. I really loved them. I know a lot of readers didn't want new narrators for this final novel but I absolutely loved how the story played out with these two and I wouldn't have wanted it any other way. Their personalities were perfect for the roles they had to play and I loved how their relationship developed. (As a sidenote, I actually had a much easier time getting into Dune and Hallie's dual narration than I did getting into Kaleb's when I read it directly after Emerson's).<br />
<br />
The twists that went on in this story were perfect. I felt like I couldn't quite always tell who was out to get what, especially with Teague and Poe. It was the little nuances that kept me on my toes with this one. As the rips became more prominent and dangerous, I found myself getting nervous for Hallie and Dune and Poe (and the rest of the gang) to figure out what Hallie's role was and what it really meant to be the Infinityglass.<br />
<br />
<b>...Less Liked Things:</b><br />
Honestly, nothing prominent comes to mind! Sure, I missed some of the other much loved characters, but I also realized that their stories were pretty much over and this was the right direction for the ending.<br />
<br />
<b>Overall...</b><br />
This was a fantastic series ending! It wraps up everything nicely with enough twists to keep you guessing and turning the pages. I loved both narrators and the book as a whole was probably either my first or second favorite in the trilogy. :)<br />
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<a class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/94ac2318/" id="rc-94ac2318" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05620317510135783572noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-56401593752282508502013-07-24T15:48:00.000-05:002013-07-24T15:53:34.892-05:00Review: The Culling by Steven dos Santos<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzunXfMftbphp38mKmVtlflTCjIdwwnEkWwrcJ5bBjBu6Gpr_cw9k7sfCwnJc84MwXU2s_bDXwCQTaP9jaKk8PGCGBNe3ZlSfY_jSMA51cK0b5uTL2eugCeOXpT0D3G-yef3bZAuQj4UU6/s1600/Culling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzunXfMftbphp38mKmVtlflTCjIdwwnEkWwrcJ5bBjBu6Gpr_cw9k7sfCwnJc84MwXU2s_bDXwCQTaP9jaKk8PGCGBNe3ZlSfY_jSMA51cK0b5uTL2eugCeOXpT0D3G-yef3bZAuQj4UU6/s320/Culling.jpg" width="207" /></a></div>
<b>Release Date: </b>8 March 2013<br />
<b>Publisher: </b>Flux<br />
<b>Format: </b>eARC<br />
<b>Source: </b>Publisher via NetGalley<br />
<br />
Get a copy! <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00BBE7Q42/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00BBE7Q42&linkCode=as2&tag=readinthecorn-20">Amazon</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=readinthecorn-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00BBE7Q42" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
<div>
<br />
Goodreads description:</div>
<blockquote>
<i>Recruitment Day is here...if you fail, a loved one will die...
<br /><br />
For Lucian “Lucky” Spark, Recruitment Day means the Establishment, a totalitarian government, will force him to become one of five Recruits competing to join the ruthless Imposer task force. Each Recruit participates in increasingly difficult and violent military training for a chance to advance to the next level. Those who fail must choose an “Incentive”—a family member—to be brutally killed. If Lucky fails, he’ll have to choose death for his only living relative: Cole, his four-year-old brother.
<br /><br />
Lucky will do everything he can to keep his brother alive, even if it means sacrificing the lives of other Recruits’ loved ones. What Lucky isn’t prepared for is his undeniable attraction to the handsome, rebellious Digory Tycho. While Lucky and Digory train together, their relationship grows. But daring to care for another Recruit in a world where love is used as the ultimate weapon is extremely dangerous. As Lucky soon learns, the consequences can be deadly...</i></blockquote>
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<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b>My Thoughts...</b></i><br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
While not as wholly original as I had hoped, <i>The Culling</i> managed to take the emotional pain of <i>The Hunger Games</i> to a whole new level that was a bit draining.
<br />
<br />
The inclusion of a gay protagonist is perfect and spot-on. It's something that I have been looking and hoping for in the booming dystopian "genre" for a long time and it was nice to finally see it realized. As LGBTQ people slowly begin to gain acceptance in our society, we can only hope that our literature and the literature that we share with our children reflects that same shift, right?<br />
<br />
I appreciated (not necessarily like, but appreciated) Lucky's character from the beginning. He is a very loyal and I felt like I could connect with the emotions that he was feeling throughout. He's conflicted about certain actions and people and that carried an air of realism for me.<br />
<br />
The dark nature of The Trials takes the twisted killing of children that <i>The Hunger Games</i> brought to a modern audience and takes it a dark step further. It is not the participant who ultimately dies in the case of failure but a loved one. The whole time I was reading this, that was a difficult pill to swallow. The darkness...oh the darkness. It will truly break your heart.<br />
<br />
Overall, I enjoyed this book but it took me awhile to really get into it. At first, the similarity to <i>The Hunger Games</i> (the inevitable and predictable comparison, I know) was a bit of a turnoff for me. However, I am glad that I stuck with reading this one as in the end I felt like it was worth the heart-wrenching journey.<br />
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JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05620317510135783572noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-69020034094297883572013-07-10T12:35:00.000-05:002013-07-10T12:37:14.184-05:00Review: Truly, Madly, Deadly by Hannah Jayne<a href="http://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/books/1357961172l/15942674.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Truly, Madly, Deadly" border="0" height="320" src="http://d202m5krfqbpi5.cloudfront.net/books/1357961172l/15942674.jpg" width="207" /></a><b>Release Date: </b>2 July 2013
<br />
<b>Publisher: </b>Sourcebooks Fire<br />
<b>Format: </b>eARC<br />
<b>Source: </b>Publisher via NetGalley<br />
<br />
Get a copy! <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1402281218/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1402281218&linkCode=as2&tag=readinthecorn-20">Amazon</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=readinthecorn-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1402281218" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
<div>
<br />
Goodreads description:</div>
<blockquote>
<i>Sawyer Dodd has it all. She's a star track athlete, choir soloist, and A-student. And her boyfriend is the handsome all-star Kevin Anderson. But behind the medals, prom pictures, and perfect smiles, Sawyer finds herself trapped in a controlling, abusive relationship with Kevin. When he dies in a drunk-driving accident, Sawyer is secretly relieved. She's free. Until she opens her locker and finds a mysterious letter signed by "an admirer" and printed with two simple words: "You're welcome."</i></blockquote>
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<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b>My Thoughts...</b></i><br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
With it's blend of mystery and suspense, <i>Truly, Madly, Deadly</i> is a new YA contribution that is a definite read for fans of the genre.
<br />
<br />
<b>What I Liked...</b><br />
The mystery and suspense that Ms. Jayne creates is perfect. There was a definitively creepy feel to the entire story and I felt like it really pulled me into what was going on in Sawyer's life. The story starts off with an emotional entry into Sawyer's life with her boyfriend's funeral. From the start, her grief over his death conflicts with another feeling that she experiences--relief. It's this start that really drew me into the book to begin with.
<br />
<br />
The mystery actually kept me guessing. I had a few inklings along the way about who I thought might be doing these things to/for Sawyer, but Ms. Jayne threw in just enough twists to keep me guessing.
<br />
<br />
<b>What I Liked Less...</b><br />
I actually had some trouble connecting with Sawyer as a character. Her actions, especially the way that she dealt with her stepmom and impending baby, as well as how she handled the stalking simply didn't always sit well with me. I understood her actions to be those of a somewhat frightened teenager, but I still felt like in the same situation I would have confided in an adult--maybe not at the very first note but definitely by the second one.
<br />
<br />
When the killer was finally revealed, I also felt like I was at a loss to truly understand the motivations behind the actions. It just felt like a bit unresolved when it came down to it.
<br />
<br />
<b>Overall...</b><br />
This book has a lot of good things going for it. While I think that it could have been even creepier, the mystery is just dark enough to draw in readers who like that kind of mystery. It also will appeal to some more reluctant readers as it is not all that long. (Possibly that is what I needed--a slightly longer story?) It definitely has the darker tone that my students like reading and I think that it definitely has some potential in my school library.<br />
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JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05620317510135783572noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-74321248705802336532013-07-08T07:30:00.000-05:002013-07-10T12:35:58.793-05:00Review: My Super Sweet Sixteenth Century by Rachel Harris<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNt5ElvzqmRk0ZAYacsqpf__MeWYUbRHXFfWZUAPyDxRTz4D1z6uAXTYrGnFbqGfCRCI2Sq-Opt7ZbEgu_aN8ljmZZiuREvNJEgkjqjyEEaxJrf1vkcJK1ZLn9wClAaLVaHWY1oRxiVS24/s1600/MSS16C_RGB-500px%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNt5ElvzqmRk0ZAYacsqpf__MeWYUbRHXFfWZUAPyDxRTz4D1z6uAXTYrGnFbqGfCRCI2Sq-Opt7ZbEgu_aN8ljmZZiuREvNJEgkjqjyEEaxJrf1vkcJK1ZLn9wClAaLVaHWY1oRxiVS24/s320/MSS16C_RGB-500px%255B1%255D.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<b>Release Date: 18 September 2012</b><br />
<b>Publisher: Entangled Teen</b><br />
<b>Format: Paperback</b><br />
<b>Source: Purchased</b><br />
<br />
Get a copy! <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/162061135X/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=162061135X&linkCode=as2&tag=readinthecorn-20">Amazon</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=readinthecorn-20&l=as2&o=1&a=162061135X" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
<div>
<br />
Goodreads description:</div>
<blockquote>
<i>On the precipice of her sixteenth birthday, the last thing lone wolf Cat Crawford wants is an extravagant gala thrown by her bubbly stepmother and well-meaning father. So even though Cat knows the family’s trip to Florence, Italy, is a peace offering, she embraces the magical city and all it offers. But when her curiosity leads her to an unusual gypsy tent, she exits . . . right into Renaissance Firenze.
<br /><br />
Thrust into the sixteenth century armed with only a backpack full of contraband future items, Cat joins up with her ancestors, the sweet Alessandra and protective Cipriano, and soon falls for the gorgeous aspiring artist Lorenzo. But when the much-older Niccolo starts sniffing around, Cat realizes that an unwanted birthday party is nothing compared to an unwanted suitor full of creeptastic amore. Can she find her way back to modern times before her Italian adventure turns into an Italian forever?</i></blockquote>
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<i><b><br /></b></i>
<i><b>My Thoughts...</b></i><br />
<a name='more'></a>A quick, fun read, Ms Harris' debut is a super sweet read that will delight fans of historical and contemporary YA romance alike. </div>
<div style="border: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border: medium none;">
<b>What I Liked:</b></div>
<div style="border: medium none;">
From the start, the main character, Cat, is a free-spirited young woman who is clearly having a hard time dealing with her family--from her in-the-spotlight mother to her soon-to-be stepmother and her not-always-there father. She's looking to relax but the universe has a different lesson in mind. Her transportation back to Renaissance Florence is fun and her personality begins to shine as she gets to know her ancestors. They clearly awaken something in her that helps her learn to embrace herself and others and I quite enjoyed watching the transformation.</div>
<div style="border: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border: medium none;">
The setting and side characters are perfect as well. I mean, what's not to love about fun family members, hot boys, and Italy? Ms. Harris does a great job creating a magical historical world where lessons can be learned and rules are made to be broken. The slightly whimsical nature of the time travel aspect fits well with the story and allows the reader not to get too bogged down in the details. </div>
<div style="border: medium none;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border: medium none;">
<b>What Was Disappointing:</b></div>
<div style="border: medium none;">
I would have liked to see just a little more build up to Niccolo's character as the main "villian" of the story. The plot worked and I understood but the rapidness of his insinuation into her life and therefore the shortlived affair she had with Lorenzo left me wanting just a little more from both relationships.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="border: medium none;">
<b>Overall...</b></div>
<div style="border: medium none;">
While I will admit that my very picky students may not love this one, I certainly did and I wish I hadn't let this set unread on my shelf for such a long time. The only positive is that I don't have to wait NEARLY as long for the sequel as I would if I had read it last year! ;)</div>
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JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05620317510135783572noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-56642250180403874762013-07-04T15:59:00.003-05:002013-07-04T16:07:05.368-05:00Independence Day Deals!I stumbled across a few really good Kindle deals this morning and I just HAD to share. It's always fun to find good book deals and share them with fellow readers. :) It's a mix of YA and NA/adult romance...<br />
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Less than $1...<br />
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<iframe src="http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=readinthecorn-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B00AQ3K8IU" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><iframe src="http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=readinthecorn-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B00BUPMC8C" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><iframe src="http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=readinthecorn-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B00C6OHRLS" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe><iframe src="http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=readinthecorn-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B00AOTGI08" style="width:120px;height:240px;" scrolling="no" marginwidth="0" marginheight="0" frameborder="0"></iframe>
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Less than $2...<br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=readinthecorn-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B0089LOGF2" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=readinthecorn-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B0073FU1MM" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=readinthecorn-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B005C776A8" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=readinthecorn-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B005C7CW34" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=readinthecorn-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B004IK8Q2W" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=readinthecorn-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B004GB1XCI" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=readinthecorn-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B004S1WMH6" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=readinthecorn-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B008BWDA10" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=readinthecorn-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B00AHCRQPI" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>
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Less than $3...<br />
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<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=readinthecorn-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B0089LOMTM" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=readinthecorn-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B005KJJ4Q2" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=readinthecorn-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B0047Y0F5A" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=readinthecorn-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B00BED2UE6" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=readinthecorn-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B008AW5KV4" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=readinthecorn-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B00AV6HX6W" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=readinthecorn-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B00745YVMW" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>
<br />
Less than $4...<br />
<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=readinthecorn-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B0080K3D10" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=readinthecorn-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B007MHVTY0" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="http://rcm-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/cm?lt1=_blank&bc1=000000&IS2=1&bg1=FFFFFF&fc1=000000&lc1=0000FF&t=readinthecorn-20&o=1&p=8&l=as4&m=amazon&f=ifr&ref=ss_til&asins=B0061Q6CI6" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">**Please note that I am an Amazon Associate. And of the very minimal fees that I get for you purchasing through my links are used to purchase books for the alternative high school where I work.***</span></i></div>
JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05620317510135783572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-38369388493698268132013-07-03T07:00:00.000-05:002013-07-03T07:00:00.898-05:00Cover Reveal: Creators by Tiffany Truitt<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm always a fan of revealing covers for fabulous authors and this one is no exception! I adore this series. The writing hooked me from book one. When I got the chance to reveal this cover, this was me:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrXnurF2eXEBrwopz1URhNIqvzdGuBOKQywHqJlGjHFqPNVnWn4jBCjrYdrE2o3ms3Ij9GSi_TYoKsLpne9Y2U-5ieXrxx6iFVd8E1LBEAmJb7mOjAouwS8-EB2uWC4vNLil-L06ePPGmM/s500/crazy-clapping1.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrXnurF2eXEBrwopz1URhNIqvzdGuBOKQywHqJlGjHFqPNVnWn4jBCjrYdrE2o3ms3Ij9GSi_TYoKsLpne9Y2U-5ieXrxx6iFVd8E1LBEAmJb7mOjAouwS8-EB2uWC4vNLil-L06ePPGmM/s320/crazy-clapping1.gif" width="320" /></a></div>
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All of these covers have been absolutely gorgeous so I hoped knew that this one would be as well. And, guess what? Totally is. :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2xODKGLIhE8mCS65h2wDL1EHLR60JFDQ2IkULP9z_i1quulESUdTPIUap5O_nGD7H-H6MVKrLK-H0jKFpRcugvRxKn0xQ3_nTVkRnRRuhd8y4pu5r2IY2FdjJzWSCe76monFEUMRvDUxb/s750/creators-tt-500.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2xODKGLIhE8mCS65h2wDL1EHLR60JFDQ2IkULP9z_i1quulESUdTPIUap5O_nGD7H-H6MVKrLK-H0jKFpRcugvRxKn0xQ3_nTVkRnRRuhd8y4pu5r2IY2FdjJzWSCe76monFEUMRvDUxb/s640/creators-tt-500.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
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OMG ISN'T IT BEAUTIFUL?!?!?!<br />
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<b>Publisher: Entangled Teen</b><br />
<b>Release Date: April 1, 2014</b><br />
<blockquote>
<i>Heartbroken but more determined than ever after a tense showdown in the woods, sixteen-year-old Tess once again returns to the safety of her community of Isolationists. Bolstered by new alliances and desperate to protect those she loves, this time she knows she can return stronger and more powerful than ever to take back what is hers. <br /><br />
As she trains in combat and grows more confident, Tess receives beautiful letters penned by her forbidden love, the chosen one James, from his prison in Templeton. He is now serving as a bodyguard to the creators—the team of scientists who created artificial life in the first place. And what he has discovered about the true origin of the illness that halted natural life could change everything.<br /><br />
Enemy will become ally and death will bring new hope in this stunning conclusion to Tiffany Truitt’s epic Lost Souls trilogy.
</i></blockquote>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br />
<b>Add it to your "To Read" List on <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18050018-creators">Goodreads</a>!</b></b><br />
<b>Pre-order your copy today! </b><span style="color: #0000ee;"><b><u><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1622661524/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1622661524&linkCode=as2&tag=readinthecorn-20">Amazon</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=readinthecorn-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1622661524" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /></u></b></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Meet Tiffany!</b> </span></b></div>
<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi20TjcdoRw0I5VCqPY8d0KL9iyHtmD0_cHuFYm49BXfVjMZKLpZHntdOOEcscsU8BxRiQgFLtPl50Ky4v0MbMkwMVqhcV5Gf3Ww-OdcLBBwU6Z-HMXlY7WFz9pTEQxP5eVob6Nn4uIUvIg/s1600/KelleyYork.jpg" imageanchor="1" separator="" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW8F0R0WhX2xB2RFvdECcdpC-jZheg_RmEMlNwcNfLPOqkVj7m0gvWNcFCSY2bztpBfvV-otCIuN8A49aMVJE_ETp-q0aB6wmtDDal2VrQK04a8URO98rhtyrAJRAYx8qLNoSnyefDYqcU/s1600/Tiffany+Truitt.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW8F0R0WhX2xB2RFvdECcdpC-jZheg_RmEMlNwcNfLPOqkVj7m0gvWNcFCSY2bztpBfvV-otCIuN8A49aMVJE_ETp-q0aB6wmtDDal2VrQK04a8URO98rhtyrAJRAYx8qLNoSnyefDYqcU/s200/Tiffany+Truitt.jpg" width="200" /></a></b>
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<a href="http://tiffanytruitt.wordpress.com/">Website </a>| <a href="twitter: https://twitter.com/tiffanytruitt">Twitter </a>| <a href="facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Tiffany-Truitt/205025266243934?fref=ts">Facebook</a> | <a href="http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5252348.Tiffany_Truitt">Goodreads</a><br />
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<i>Tiffany Truitt was born in Peoria, Illinois. A self-proclaimed Navy brat, Tiffany spent most of her childhood living in Virginia, but don’t call her a Southerner. She also spent a few years living in Cuba. Since her time on the island of one McDonalds and Banana Rats (don’t ask), she has been obsessed with traveling. Tiffany recently added China to her list of travels (hello inspiration for a new book).</i></div>
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<i>Besides traveling, Tiffany has always been an avid reader. Tiffany spent most of her high school and college career as a literary snob. She refused to read anything considered “low brow” or outside the “classics.”</i></div>
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<i>Tiffany began teaching middle school in 2006. Her students introduced her to the wide, wonderful world of Young Adult literature. Today, Tiffany embraces popular Young Adult literature and uses it in her classroom. Tiffany is proud to call herself an educator and Young Adult author.</i></div>
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JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05620317510135783572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-10982453239509382272013-07-02T11:07:00.000-05:002013-07-10T12:36:11.861-05:00Review: Blurred by Tara Fuller<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWGuVcKsm08wIYSZl9qphXKJ2lUQi5JgUoD6PIwD0Jxnu8bFR7uGaNZXcp-hT0ytZBa_PCrxK7t6v9FcxFGnR5uUtSdWpbJmnd3QGw3FXMA6GhZ-nmsDJ-Qg2VrvdjJ2OkWIMjQa7LsnBN/s475/Blurred.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWGuVcKsm08wIYSZl9qphXKJ2lUQi5JgUoD6PIwD0Jxnu8bFR7uGaNZXcp-hT0ytZBa_PCrxK7t6v9FcxFGnR5uUtSdWpbJmnd3QGw3FXMA6GhZ-nmsDJ-Qg2VrvdjJ2OkWIMjQa7LsnBN/s320/Blurred.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<b>Release Date: </b>2 July 2013<br />
<b>Publisher: </b>Entangled Teen<br />
<b>Format: </b>eARC<br />
<b>Source: </b>Publisher<br />
<br />
Get a copy! <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/162061085X/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=162061085X&linkCode=as2&tag=readinthecorn-20">Amazon</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=readinthecorn-20&l=as2&o=1&a=162061085X" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
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<br />
<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/16129272-blurred">Goodreads </a>description:</div>
<blockquote>
<i>Cash is haunted by things. Hungry, hollow things. They only leave him alone when Anaya, Heaven’s beautiful reaper, is around. Cash has always been good with girls, but Anaya isn’t like the others. She’s dead. And with his deteriorating health, Cash might soon be as well.
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Anaya never breaks the rules, but the night of the fire she recognized part of Cash’s soul—and doomed him to something worse than death. Cash’s soul now resides in an expired body, making him a shadow walker—a rare, coveted being that can walk between worlds. A being creatures of the underworld would do anything to get their hands on.
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The lines between life and death are blurring, and Anaya and Cash find themselves falling helplessly over the edge. Trapped in a world where the living don’t belong, can Cash make it out alive?</i></blockquote>
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<i><b>My Thoughts...</b></i><br />
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In the second novel in the "Kissed by Death" series, Ms. Fuller has once again dished up a sizeable helping of forbidden love and the struggle to come out on top. When Anaya saved Cash's life, she didn't fully understand the repercussions of her actions--she was, after all, just doing what her boss told her to do. However, as Cash slowly deteriorates, can she stand by and watch while he is chased by the dark side?
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<b>What I Liked:</b><br />
The characters, as I would expect from Ms. Fuller, were incredibly well developed. Cash is a bit of a mystery from <i>Inbetween</i> and he's incredibly intriguing to finally get to know better. As the darkness consumes him, you see him really struggle with his own feelings and actions. Anaya is very interesting to watch because you get the feeling that she has never really gone against the requirements of her job and for some reason she is compelled to do so to help Cash. I really enjoyed their relationship (possibly *gasp* even more than I liked Emma and Finn!). The slow burn development of their friendship/romance is perfectly attuned to their situation and laced with sadness and grief that isn't a "normal" part of a romance story. It fit with their situation.
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All of the characters that we loved from <i>Inbetween</i> make repeat appearances in <i>Blurred</i>--Emma, Finn, Easton. Seeing Cash enter this world that Emma is already a part of in a way really created a depth to the story that I loved. I suppose that was the nice thing about this being the second book in the series--I felt like I already knew some of the rules of the world going in and it allowed the story to build on that.
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<b>What Was Disappointing:</b><br />
Some things in this book happen a bit too easily to get us to the happy ending. Did it detract from my enjoyment of the story? No, not at all, but there were moments that things seemed to simply fall into place a bit unrealistically. (But hey, that's fiction, right?)<br />
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<b>Overall...</b><br />
<i>Blurred</i> is a fun, happy-ending sort of read. Fans of the first book will fall just as much, if not more, in love with this novel, but you don't necessarily need to read the first book to enjoy this one. I can only hope that Easton's book is on the horizon!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgasFq3gg0hoqbUI3uhxloKz3FVXjAKaQtsqsIaj3zKLUjGag1KS2ovAgyaR5iXWbPUzK5X-0lea09sP8naMO2-O6fFYY6tj0yQvuJBDGhsMII1FMTA165WhGDSwZpEcvSny52udYGilTsp/s232/reading4.5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgasFq3gg0hoqbUI3uhxloKz3FVXjAKaQtsqsIaj3zKLUjGag1KS2ovAgyaR5iXWbPUzK5X-0lea09sP8naMO2-O6fFYY6tj0yQvuJBDGhsMII1FMTA165WhGDSwZpEcvSny52udYGilTsp/s232/reading4.5.png" /></a></div>
JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05620317510135783572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-17844761390618501572013-06-14T10:13:00.000-05:002013-07-10T12:36:35.458-05:00Review: Dear Cassie by Lisa Burstein<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhKYSOOUYKSsYedeTGNXV7UVaG6A68cZepRZg_rxlpRxahDh-sxhPUJZow8oOviNVnibs9glf2aQXiUBQWWWyKft7998CPlNXOj2jDVkElR5A7E3wtEXS26ICbaUPmfwQ1WZGNeAF-ftmj/s1600/13628374.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhKYSOOUYKSsYedeTGNXV7UVaG6A68cZepRZg_rxlpRxahDh-sxhPUJZow8oOviNVnibs9glf2aQXiUBQWWWyKft7998CPlNXOj2jDVkElR5A7E3wtEXS26ICbaUPmfwQ1WZGNeAF-ftmj/s320/13628374.jpg" width="212" /></a><b>Release Date: </b>5 March 2013<br />
<b>Publisher:</b> Entangled Teen<br />
<b>Format: </b>eARC<br />
<b>Source: </b>NetGalley<br />
<br />
Get a copy! <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1620612542/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1620612542&linkCode=as2&tag=readinthecorn-20">Amazon</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=readinthecorn-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1620612542" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
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<br />
Goodreads description:</div>
<blockquote>
<i><b>What if the last place you should fall in love is the first place that you do?
</b><br /><br />
You’d think getting sent to Turning Pines Wilderness Camp for a month-long rehabilitation “retreat” and being forced to re-live it in this journal would be the worst thing that’s ever happened to me.
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You’d be wrong.</b>
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There’s the reason I was sent to Turning Pines in the first place: I got arrested. On prom night. With my two best friends, who I haven’t talked to since and probably never will again. And then there’s the real reason I was sent here. The thing I can’t talk about with the guy I can’t even think about.
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What if the moment you’ve closed yourself off is the moment you start to break open?
</b><br /><br />
But there’s this guy here. Ben. And the more I swear he won’t—he can’t—the deeper under my skin he’s getting. After the thing that happened, I promised I’d never fall for another boy’s lies.
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And yet I can’t help but wonder…what if?</b></i></blockquote>
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<i><b>My Thoughts...</b></i><br />
<a href="http://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=7550213410540999286" name="more"></a></div>
When I read Pretty Amy over a year ago now, I felt like I had found a gem in Ms. Burstein's writing. Amy was perfectly flawed and fun to read about. I was incredibly excited to discover that Cassie would be getting her own story and Ms. Burstein once again delivered on a great premise.<br />
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<b>
What I Liked:</b><br />
The writing and character development was once again fantastic. I was excited to have the opportunity to get into Cassie's head and wasn't disappointed at what we discovered there. Cassie is a very dynamic character with her tough-girl, rough-around-the-edges attitude coupled with clear heartbreak over something that she keeps hidden deep. The minor characters in this book were fantastic and I found myself intrigued by each and every one of them.<br />
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<b>
What Was Disappointing</b>:<br />
Bens's stunt at the end seemed a little over-the-top and perhaps unrealistic. I liked that they got to have this moment, but I felt like it was too easy and not really plausible.<br />
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<b>
Overall</b>:<br />
I will continue to follow Ms. Burstein's writing quite avidly and the hints of a Ben/Cassie novella make me quite the happy reader. I think this is also one that will consider adding to my library collection (possibly out of my own pocket) because it has that raw, realistic quality to it that my students enjoy.<br />
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<br />JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05620317510135783572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-70450802013646297592013-06-10T15:33:00.001-05:002013-06-10T15:33:06.088-05:00The Archived by Victoria Schwab<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSwSv0FpiXR78bLkgCehiX9PsoV5EvyvBOKbgFHCmV3sEQD_eum6t2vewUOxjYiBqZNAl8Lagcd153c0WCZ8hk7PNDnUtrvjzS9YI0_iTEVSrzBU7doJA9hBLnsI9F8Ud2xJYBCaSSbxic/s1600/archived.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSwSv0FpiXR78bLkgCehiX9PsoV5EvyvBOKbgFHCmV3sEQD_eum6t2vewUOxjYiBqZNAl8Lagcd153c0WCZ8hk7PNDnUtrvjzS9YI0_iTEVSrzBU7doJA9hBLnsI9F8Ud2xJYBCaSSbxic/s320/archived.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
<b>Release Date: </b>January 2013<br />
<b>Publisher: </b>Disney Hyperion<br />
<b>Format: </b>eBook<br />
<b>Source: </b>Purchased<br />
<br />
Get a copy! <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B009OIZ4IW/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B009OIZ4IW&linkCode=as2&tag=readinthecorn-20">Amazon</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=readinthecorn-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B009OIZ4IW" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
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<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10929432-the-archived">Goodreads</a> description:</div>
<blockquote>
<i>Imagine a place where the dead rest on shelves like books.
<br /><br />
Each body has a story to tell, a life seen in pictures that only Librarians can read. The dead are called Histories, and the vast realm in which they rest is the Archive.
<br /><br />
Da first brought Mackenzie Bishop here four years ago, when she was twelve years old, frightened but determined to prove herself. Now Da is dead, and Mac has grown into what he once was, a ruthless Keeper, tasked with stopping often—violent Histories from waking up and getting out. Because of her job, she lies to the people she loves, and she knows fear for what it is: a useful tool for staying alive.
<br /><br />
Being a Keeper isn’t just dangerous—it’s a constant reminder of those Mac has lost. Da’s death was hard enough, but now her little brother is gone too. Mac starts to wonder about the boundary between living and dying, sleeping and waking. In the Archive, the dead must never be disturbed. And yet, someone is deliberately altering Histories, erasing essential chapters. Unless Mac can piece together what remains, the Archive itself might crumble and fall.</i></blockquote>
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<i><b>My Thoughts...</b></i><br />
<a name='more'></a></div>
As soon as I got into this book, I wondered why I had waited so long to read it. In <i>The Archived</i>, Ms. Schwab has created a richly atmospheric world where a person's History is preserved and kept on a shelf like a book. Mackenzie's job is to make sure that when a History accidentally awakens that it doesn't escape into the Outer--the world of the living.<br />
<br />
<b>What I Liked:</b><br />
The atmosphere that Ms. Schwab has created was really awesome. The whole idea of a parallel world where the souls of the dead are kept on shelves like a library--brilliant! (Maybe that's the librarian/archives geek in me but I loved it.) Also, this hallway in between the two realms had this eerie feel that I just loved. Every time Mac was in this place hunting escapees, I was awesomely engaged. The writing in <i>The Archived</i> once again pulled me right into the world, just as Ms. Schwab did with <i>The Near Witch</i>. <br />
<br />
<b>The Not So Much:</b><br />
The beginning didn't really pull me in. I actually had to start this one over twice before I was able to make myself sit and keep reading. I'm not sure if it was the interactions with her grandfather (whom I didn't realize was her GRANDfather at first) or simply the pacing, but it wasn't a pull you right in kind of start.<br />
<br />
<b>Overall...</b><br />
I loved it and I think that there are many teens who will enjoy the story. I would highly recommend it to motivated teen readers who are willing to really stick with a story before it gets good. That being said, will I put it on MY library shelves? The likelihood is that I won't with my limited space and budget. Not because it's not a good book (because, again, <i style="font-weight: bold;">I</i> loved it) but because most of my teen readers like stories that grab you from the start and are likely to put a book down quickly if not engaged quickly. I would definitely recommend adding it to the shelves of a larger library (and I would add it in a heartbeat if someone donated a copy *winkwink*).<br />
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<br />JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05620317510135783572noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-12459752202641013812013-04-10T06:00:00.000-05:002013-04-10T06:00:16.658-05:00Review + Giveaway: Naturals by Tiffany Truitt<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Release Date: 2 April 2013</b><br />
<b>Publisher: Entangled Teen</b><br />
<b>Format: eARC </b><br />
<b>Source: Publisher<a href="http://princessbookiearctours.blogspot.com/"><br /></a></b><br />
<br />
Grab the first book, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008527RS8/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B008527RS8&linkCode=as2&tag=readinthecorn-20">Chosen Ones</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=readinthecorn-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B008527RS8" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />, or <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B6U15OI/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B00B6U15OI&linkCode=as2&tag=readinthecorn-20">Naturals</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=readinthecorn-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00B6U15OI" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /> for only $4.99 for your Kindle!<br />
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<blockquote>
<i>Ripped away from those she loves most, Tess is heartbroken as her small band of travelers reaches the Isolationist camp in the mysterious and barren Middlelands. Desperate to be reunited with James, the forbidden chosen one who stole her heart, she wants nothing to do with the rough Isolationists, who are without allegiance in the war between the Westerners and Easterners. But having their protection, especially for someone as powerful as Tess, may come at a cost.
<br /><br />
When James returns, Tess’s world once again feels complete—until she discovers her sister, Louisa, has taken up her old post at Templeton, the dangerous chosen ones training center and the site of Tess’s loss of innocence. Tess will do anything to protect her loved ones—but will the price be more than she can give?
<br /><br />
This second book in Tiffany Truitt’s dystopian series is a thought-provoking, thrilling story that asks who the true enemy really is—the chosen ones who are different, or the naturals…who are just like us.
</i></blockquote>
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<i><b>My Thoughts...</b></i><br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a>If you haven't read the first book, then check out my review of <a href="http://readinginthecorner.blogspot.com/2012/05/ya-book-review-chosen-ones-by-tiffany.html">Chosen Ones here</a>! Definitely recommended if you really hate spoilers because I never make promises with reviews of books in a series!<br />
<br />
When I read <i>Chosen Ones </i>last year, I distinctly remember that Ms. Truitt's writing completely captivated me and the sequel was no different. As far as second books go, <i>Naturals</i> excelled in continuing the bleak hopeless world while creating new story lines that kept the book moving and new characters and situations that added a special element to the new setting.<br />
<br />
<i>Naturals</i> picks up pretty much right after where <i>Chosen Ones</i> ended, with our characters still making their way through the forest trying to make it safely back to their community. I thought this was a perfect way to re-enter the story--no time gaps to attempt to revisit. Seeing Tess without James while still in the woods is a bit of an eye-opening experience. I felt like she was just realizing what it really meant to define yourself. This self-exploration continues throughout her time in the Isolationist community.<br />
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The Isolationist community was a distinct contrast to the sheltered world of the compound and I honestly enjoyed watching Tess grow and getting to know her new surroundings, including the people. Lockwood was by far the most standout new character for me and I enjoyed watching his friendship with Tess develop--proving that not every male friendship is bound to turn a story into a love triangle.<br />
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The ending left me desperate for more, which I think is common with second books, but I'm absolutely dying to read the rest of the story. I can't wait for more of Ms. Truitt's writing style and her well-crafted world.<br />
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<i><br /></i>
<b>About the Author:</b><br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Tiffany Truitt was born in Peoria, Illinois. A self-proclaimed Navy brat, Tiffany spent most of her childhood living in Virginia, but don’t call her a Southerner. She also spent a few years living in Cuba. Since her time on the island of one McDonalds and Banana Rats (don’t ask), she has been obsessed with traveling. Tiffany recently added China to her list of travels (hello inspiration for a new book).
</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Besides traveling, Tiffany has always been an avid reader. Tiffany spent most of her high school and college career as a literary snob. She refused to read anything considered “low brow” or outside the “classics.”
</i><br />
<i><br /></i>
<i>Tiffany began teaching middle school in 2006. Her students introduced her to the wide, wonderful world of Young Adult literature. Today, Tiffany embraces popular Young Adult literature and uses it in her classroom. Tiffany is proud to call herself an educator and Young Adult author.
</i></blockquote>
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<script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script>JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05620317510135783572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-23214660287479465132013-04-08T18:11:00.000-05:002013-06-12T20:18:13.313-05:00Things I Can't Forget by Miranda Kenneally<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Release Date: </b> 1 March 2013<br>
<b>Publisher: </b>Sourcebooks Fire<br>
<b>Format: </b>Paperback<br>
<b>Source: </b>Purchased<br>
<br>
Get a copy! <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1402271905/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1402271905&linkCode=as2&tag=readinthecorn-20">Amazon</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=readinthecorn-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1402271905" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1"><br>
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<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12551082-things-i-can-t-forget">Goodreads</a> description:</div>
<blockquote>
<i>Kate has always been the good girl. Too good, according to some people at school—although they have no idea the guilty secret she carries. But this summer, everything is different…
<br><br>
This summer she’s a counselor at Cumberland Creek summer camp, and she wants to put the past behind her. This summer Matt is back as a counselor too. He’s the first guy she ever kissed, and he’s gone from a geeky songwriter who loved The Hardy Boys to a buff lifeguard who loves to flirt--with her.
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Kate used to think the world was black and white, right and wrong. Turns out, life isn’t that easy…</i></blockquote>
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<i><b>My Thoughts...</b></i><br>
<a name="more"></a><div><i><b><br></b></i></div><div>This series is one that I consider a must-read/must-buy and thankfully Ms. Kenneally didn't disappoint with this third installment. Full of the charm I've come to except from this series, <i>Things I Can't Forget</i> was a quick read that lef the satisfied and looking forward to more.</div><div><br></div><div><b>What I Liked:</b></div><div>Kate was a very dynamic protagonist and I loved getting to see her different layers and the things that made her tick. I was curious how religion would be woven into the story and I felt that the way that it was portrayed they Kate was honest, refreshing, and dearly lacking in preachiness. Kate struggled with her upbringing, past choices, and future choices the way that every teenager does and it totally worked. The storytelling was fabulous as always, with the perfect moment apps of reflection and just the right amount of teenage angst.</div><div><br></div><div><b>What was Disappointing:</b></div><div>Side characters have always been great in this series and this was no exception, except that I felt some of the potential with the more minor characters was lost. Brad pops up fairly early on and it is clear that he has some major home issues...but we never really get to see it play out. I felt like he could have been developed more as Kate's friend and added yet another layer to the story.</div><div><br></div><div><b>Overall...</b></div><div>I am still head-over-heels for this series and I am happy to read that there will be more. Ms. Kenneally isn't afraid to tackle tough issues but she manages to keep her novels from turning into issues books, which is appreciated. They are fun reads that aren't fluffy and I look forward to more.</div>JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05620317510135783572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-31770851554816426412013-04-08T18:04:00.001-05:002013-04-08T18:04:34.005-05:00Splintered by A.G. Howard<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
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<b>Release Date: 1 January 2013</b></div>
<b>Publisher: ABRAMS</b><br />
<b>Format: eARC</b><br />
<b>Source: Publisher via NetGalley</b><br />
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Get a copy! <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1419704281/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=1419704281&linkCode=as2&tag=readinthecorn-20">Amazon</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=readinthecorn-20&l=as2&o=1&a=1419704281" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />
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<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/12558285-splintered">Goodreads</a> description:</div>
<blockquote>
<i> Alyssa Gardner hears the whispers of bugs and flowers—precisely the affliction that landed her mother in a mental hospital years before. This family curse stretches back to her ancestor Alice Liddell, the real-life inspiration for Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland. Alyssa might be crazy, but she manages to keep it together. For now.<br /><br />
When her mother’s mental health takes a turn for the worse, Alyssa learns that what she thought was fiction is based in terrifying reality. The real Wonderland is a place far darker and more twisted than Lewis Carroll ever let on. There, Alyssa must pass a series of tests, including draining an ocean of Alice’s tears, waking the slumbering tea party, and subduing a vicious bandersnatch, to fix Alice’s mistakes and save her family. She must also decide whom to trust: Jeb, her gorgeous best friend and secret crush, or the sexy but suspicious Morpheus, her guide through Wonderland, who may have dark motives of his own.</i>
</blockquote>
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<i><b>My Thoughts...</b></i><br />
<a name='more'></a>While it took me awhile to get around to reading <i>Splintered</i>, it consumed all my reading time once I got going. This creative retelling of the story of <i>Alice's Adventures in Wonderland</i> is captivating.<br />
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<b>What I Liked:</b><br />
The crazy, magical world that Ms. Howard has created really stole the show for me. I found myself drawn into her descriptions of Wonderland and it's eccentricities from the very beginning. The descriptions were vivid enough to give me a clear sense of my surroundings without becoming too overbearing. I also felt like the world had the perfect mix of magic and horror.<br />
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Did you know that romance and love doesn't have to happen in a week? Clearly, Ms. Howard does and she's taken it to heart with the romantic element in <i>Splintered. </i>Alyssa and Jeb have been dealing with their hidden, unrequited feelings for a long time while enjoying a healthy, neighborly friendship. When their relationship becomes more, it is a seamless transition full of the perfectly developed feelings of friendship, love, and loyalty.<br />
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<b>What Was Disappointing:</b><br />
Well...nothing, really. I got nervous when a love triangle started to take shape, but it never really got to the level of true annoyance for me. More of a flirtation...a "what if"...<br />
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<b>Overall...</b><br />
This was a truly fantastic read! Ms. Howard pulled me into the world that she created. It takes real talent here lately to keep me coming back every time I sit down to read. I found myself trying to show up early to work so I would have a few minutes to sit and read more. When a teenager came into the public library looking for this book, it took everything in me not to gush about it while we went looking for it.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgasFq3gg0hoqbUI3uhxloKz3FVXjAKaQtsqsIaj3zKLUjGag1KS2ovAgyaR5iXWbPUzK5X-0lea09sP8naMO2-O6fFYY6tj0yQvuJBDGhsMII1FMTA165WhGDSwZpEcvSny52udYGilTsp/s1600/reading4.5.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgasFq3gg0hoqbUI3uhxloKz3FVXjAKaQtsqsIaj3zKLUjGag1KS2ovAgyaR5iXWbPUzK5X-0lea09sP8naMO2-O6fFYY6tj0yQvuJBDGhsMII1FMTA165WhGDSwZpEcvSny52udYGilTsp/s1600/reading4.5.png" /></a></div>
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JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05620317510135783572noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-13705246053421151352013-04-07T19:30:00.000-05:002013-04-08T09:53:42.117-05:00Sunday Steals!So, usually I post this type of thing on a Saturday but I was at work earlier and stumbled upon some great eBook deals for your Kindle that I HAD to share. Who knows how long these will last so grab what you will asap! :) (As of Monday morning, I know some of these have risen in price...)<br />
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<b>Less than $1</b><br />
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<b>Less than $2</b><br />
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<b>Less than $3</b><br />
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<b>Less than $4</b><br />
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<b>Less than $5</b><br />
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<b>Less than $6
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;">**I am an Amazon Associate and make a few pennies on your purchase. All proceeds from my orders go to buy books for the alternative high school library where I work.</span></i></div>
JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05620317510135783572noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7550213410540999286.post-778677929482223242013-04-02T09:06:00.000-05:002013-04-02T09:06:46.733-05:00The Goddess Inheritance by Aimee Carter<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikf7Pue3fmrqAYCIB8355sXdQPgk6fpUvehe7fr5boKuh6syTtmQb-mA9FPx_VKBS8sR3X0fxxGDMp8gboLdWjHMMg8yNgQ6EP2Ee-JuZ6FJm4vh8By5ZNa3pB2v12GsKYB1tqXIncvqVs/s1600/TGI.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikf7Pue3fmrqAYCIB8355sXdQPgk6fpUvehe7fr5boKuh6syTtmQb-mA9FPx_VKBS8sR3X0fxxGDMp8gboLdWjHMMg8yNgQ6EP2Ee-JuZ6FJm4vh8By5ZNa3pB2v12GsKYB1tqXIncvqVs/s320/TGI.jpg" width="206" /></a></div>
<b>Release Date:</b> 26 February 2013<br />
<b>Publisher: </b>Harlequin Teen<br />
<b>Format: </b>eARC<br />
<b>Source: </b>Publisher via NetGalley<br />
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Get a copy! <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0373210671/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=0373210671&linkCode=as2&tag=readinthecorn-20">Amazon</a><img alt="" border="0" height="1" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=readinthecorn-20&l=as2&o=1&a=0373210671" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" /><br />
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<a href="http://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10838776-the-goddess-inheritance">Goodreads</a> description:</div>
<blockquote>
<i><b>Love or life.<br />
Henry or their child.<br />
The end of her family or the end of the world.<br />
Kate must choose.</b><br />
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During nine months of captivity, Kate Winters has survived a jealous goddess, a vengeful Titan and a pregnancy she never asked for. Now the Queen of the Gods wants her unborn child, and Kate can't stop her--until Cronus offers a deal.
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In exchange for her loyalty and devotion, the King of the Titans will spare humanity and let Kate keep her child. Yet even if Kate agrees, he'll destroy Henry, her mother and the rest of the council. And if she refuses, Cronus will tear the world apart until every last god and mortal is dead.
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With the fate of everyone she loves resting on her shoulders, Kate must do the impossible: find a way to defeat the most powerful being in existence, even if it costs her everything.
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Even if it costs her eternity.</i></blockquote>
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<i><b>My Thoughts...</b></i><br />
<a name='more'></a>It's always a bit bittersweet when the end of a series that you've enjoyed immensely comes to an end. Will the end be satisfying? Will the resolution be perfect, not forced? Will you cry at the departure of people you've come to love? <i>The Goddess Inheritance</i>, for me, was a great ending to a very enjoyable series.</div>
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<b>What I Liked:</b></div>
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Kate grows a lot in this book (not that she hasn't come a long way previously but this is some serious strength of character). She has to make a lot of tough decisions and while not every decision is a good one or the right one, she finds the strength to make and stand by them. While she is a goddess now, her personality still strikes me as very realistic for a young woman facing difficult decisions. </div>
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I also loved that this book dives right into the story just a little ahead of where we left it with the second book. We get to see what's been going on with Kate in captivity without having to experience every moment. Ms. Carter has done a great job giving the reader a keen sense of just how life has been in the titan's captivity for the past nine months. I also enjoyed seeing the flip side of the other gods and goddesses attempting to ferret out just how to respond to the titan's threats and how to rescue Kate, if a rescue is indeed possible.</div>
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<b>What Was Disappointing:</b></div>
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The romance wasn't as at the forefront in this finale as I might have liked--although that might be purely a selfish thing as I really enjoyed watching the love blossom between Kate and Henry in the first two books. Their love is enduring, as always, but I think perhaps reading too many romance novels has left me wanting more from this relationship.</div>
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The ending is perhaps a bit too tidy. Although it's not all rainbows and butterflies by any means and I do love a good HEA, it was a bit easy how it all wrapped up. The set-up left me waiting for something...more.</div>
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<b>Overall...</b></div>
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This really is a good series. I enjoyed its finale quite a bit and I think that a lot of teens will enjoying Kate's journey. </div>
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JessiMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05620317510135783572noreply@blogger.com2