2011 End of Year Book Survey

I saw this survey on a bunch of the blogs I follow, so I thought I'd fill it out. :) Jamie over at The Perpetual Page-Turner created this survey last year, so it's now the 2nd annual END OF YEAR BOOK SURVEY! This is my first time participating, and if you want to participate in it, too, click on the links and go check it out for yourself, and don't forget to link-up your post. :)

1. Best Book You Read In 2011? 


Divergent by Veronica Roth - My review

A few others that I absolutely loved were:
In the Forests of the Night by Kersten Hamilton (♥ Finn!)
Silence by Becca Fitzpatrick (best book in the series!)
Clockwork Prince by Cassandra Clare (love this one...even though my heart totally broke throughout it!)
Lola and the Boy Next Door  by Stephanie Perkins
....I could go on and on, but I'm going to stop now. :P


2. Most Disappointing Book/Book You Wish You Loved More Than You Did?

I had a few, but considering how many I read, I'm surprised there weren't more. :P
Subject Seven by James A. Moore
Empty by Suzanne Weyn
The Girl in the Arena by Lise Haines

3. Most surprising (in a good way!) book of 2011?

Well. I'm pretty aware of what I'll like, so I'm not sure if I was really all that surprised that I liked the books that I did. I guess I was surprised by Sweetly by Jackson Pearce. I really liked Sisters Red, and I expected to like Sweetly....but I did not expect to love it way more than I loved Sisters Red! Sweetly kind of blew me away actually...and it had me craving candy like crazy! haha

4. Book you recommended to people most in 2011?

The Hunger Games, I got several different people to read this series over the last year. ;) Now, I have people to see the movie with me. haha I also pimped out Divergent whenever I could. :D I actually just borrowed my copies of the trilogy to my cousin so that she and her boyfriend can both read it...my Hunger Games army is growing...muhahahahahaha. *awkward pause* Sorry about that.

5. Best series you discovered in 2011?

I'm going to pick a YA and an adult series. I've started an awful lot of YA series this year, but they honestly don't feel like series yet because for most I'm waiting for more books....oh the waiting....it kills me! :P

YA: The Mockingbirds Series by Daisy Whitney - I wanted to read this for a while, but I finally read it this year, and I loved the first book! I'm now anxiously awaiting the next one. Alex, the main character, is just so strong, and I think that this book, and series, carries such a strong message. Definitely an inspirational read.
Adult: The Holloway Pack Series by J.A. Belfiled - Darkness and Light is the first book, and there have been several novellas. One of which comes out January 1st. ;)


6. Favorite new authors you discovered in 2011?


Ellen Hopkins, Jackie Morse Kessler,and J.A. Belfield. I absolutely love both Ellen and Jackie's writing styles. They write such beautiful stories, and Ellen's writing taught me to appreciate different forms of stories. I never really thought I'd like poetic verse in a book, but I was pleasantly surprised to discover that I loved it. And J.A. Belfield continues to wow me with her stories. I'm so glad that I signed up to review books from J. Taylor Publishing because I absolutely love the stories that they publish, and Julie has written plenty of amazing stories that have kept me entertained throughout the year! :D

7. Best book that was out of your comfort zone or was a new genre for you?

Backstage Pass by Olivia Cunning...and then Rock Hard by Olivia Cunning. I don't usually read books that have that much sex in them, but I actually really liked them! The characters were so sexy, they were rock stars *drool*...and well, these books are definitely hot! It kind of opened my eyes to the fact that YA isn't all that's out there. I love YA, but I also like other styles. It pretty much just added onto my eclectic reading style. :P

Triangles by Ellen Hopkins was another one that took me out of my comfort zone. I'm not a big fan of different prose types...I like traditional dialogue, and nothing too out there, but Triangles was written in poetic verse. I was asked if I wanted to review it, and I said yes because I wanted to give poetic verse a shot...and it was amazing! Seriously, if you haven't read poetic verse yet, you really should give it a shot. :)


8. Most thrilling, unputdownable book in 2011?

Oh I had a few of these....I tend to stay up way later than I should while reading, but the most memorable one is Clockwork Prince. I think the only time I put it down was when it got so intense that I needed a breather! haha


9. Book you most anticipated in 2011?

City of Fallen Angels by Cassandra Clare
Inheritance by Christopher Paolini

10. Favorite cover of a book you read in 2011?

Silence by Becca Fitzpatrick

I have been smitten with this cover since the moment I first saw it...and when I saw it in person, I loved it even more. It's so breathtaking, and the way it shimmers. *sigh* I know some people think it would look better in colour, but I love it in black and white...it just adds such a dark element to the cover, and honestly, these books are on the darker side. It may have romance, but there's evil all around...plus, it's gorgeous with the silver tones. Awww.



11. Most memorable character in 2011? 

Hmmm. Well Tris and Four from Divergent were incredibly memorable. Will from Clockwork Prince and Jace from City of Fallen Angels are also always memorable...even though I've already met both of them. ;)

12. Most beautifully written book read in 2011?

Triangles by Ellen Hopkins
Hunger by Jackie Morse Kessler
Rage by Jackie Morse Kessler
Jellicoe Road by Melina Marchetta

13. Book that had the greatest impact on you in 2011? 

Divergent! I immediately started telling people about it as soon as I finished it. I love that book. Although, I guess emotionally, Hunger and Rage by Jackie Morse Kessler had pretty big impacts on me because of their content. They're incredibly powerful stories.

14. Book you can't believe you waited UNTIL 2011 to finally read? 

Jellicoe Road by Melina Marchetta! I saw this one on several blogs, and really wanted to read it, especially when Ashley from the Book Labyrinth highly recommended it, and I wasn't disappointed! It's an amazing story! :D

15. Favorite Passage/Quote From A Book You Read In 2011?
Hmmm...I don't really memorize quotes or keep track of them to be honest, but I do have a few that I highlighted on my Kindle that I can share. :) I think I definitely need to start writing down quotes though. I like looking back at them. :D

"You see yourself as very average, ordinary. And there is nothing ordinary about you, Rachel." - Dex, Something Borrowed by Emily Giffin.
----- I absolutely loved this line. It was so sweet, and so straightforward, and it was the best part of Dex. Throughout Something Borrowed, Dex is actually kind of a douche. He strings Rachel along when he could have easily just broke it off with Darcy...so easily, and this line was one of the reasons I thought he wasn't a douche, even if he acted like one. :P

Then I have a couple from Lock and Key by Sarah Dessen:
 - "Love and friendship. They are what make us who we are, and what can change us, if we let them."

- "Ah," he said, "but that's the thing. I do. I'm compulsively friendly." - Nate (Oh, I love Nate...he's so sweet! :D)

- "Hey, and for what it's worth? Friends don't leave you alone in the woods. Friends are the ones who come and take you out." - Nate

- "Family isn't something that's supposed to be static or set. People marry in, divorce out. They're born, they die. It's always evolving, turning into something else."

- " Nate, who was a friend to me before I even knew what a friend was." <---This one's my favourite. It's just so honest, and for Ruby that's a big deal. :)

----So next year, I'll definitely have to start keeping track of quotes! I actually really liked looking back through my Kindle ones. :D

16. Book That You Read In 2011 That Would Be Most Likely To Reread In 2012? 

Definitely Divergent. :D I think it's safe to say that Divergent totally dominated this year for me. :P

17. Book That Had A Scene In It That Had You Reeling And Dying To Talk To Somebody About It? (a WTF moment, an epic revelation, a steamy kiss, etc. etc.) Be careful of spoilers!

Pretty much all of Clockwork Prince...and even City of Fallen Angels...Cassandra Clare really tossed my heart around this year! I loved them both, but they put me through the ringer! I don't even think I have to mention scenes...I think people who have read them probably know EXACTLY what I'm talking about. :P

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 Book Blogging/Reading Life in 2011

1. New favorite book blog you discovered in 2011? 

I discovered a lot of blogs in 2011, but one that I really love is my friend Zoë's blog, In the Next Room. I'm so glad I found it, especially since if I hadn't found it I wouldn't have such an awesome blogger friend! :D

2. Favorite review that you wrote in 2010? 

I absolutely loved my review for Clockwork Prince. I just wrote it a while ago, but I thought long and hard about this review, and I'm happy with how it turned out...especially since I think I managed to avoid spoilers, which is very tough with sequels!

3. Best discussion you had on your blog? 

I haven't really had any on my blog...I guess I need to start writing posts that get people thinking!

4. Most thought-provoking review or discussion you read on somebody else's blog?


Oh man...another thing I need to start saving so that I don't forget. I remember reading a post I liked about Bookish Pet Peeves, but I can't remember which blog it was on. Next year, I'll have some to actually talk about.


5. Best event that you participated in (author signings, festivals, virtual events, memes, etc.)?

I've only ever been to one author signing, and it was this year. :) My friend, Glen, and I went to West Edmonton Mall to get our copies of Inheritance signed by Christopher Paolini. It was a long wait, but it's awesome to have all of my books in the series signed. :D

An online event that I loved was the Iron Knight Release Party on twitter...so fun! :D It was crazy hard to follow everything because there were so many people involved, but it was an awesome experience, and I'd definitely do it again. :)

6. Best moment of book blogging in 2011?

Hmmm, I've had a couple. I totally went all fangirl in my bedroom when Julie Kagawa commented on my "Perfect Day with Ash" post, and when Ellen Hopkins commented on my Triangles review, I just couldn't stop smiling. :D

7. Most Popular Post This Year On Your Blog (whether it be by comments or views)?

My Dewey's 24-Hour Read-a-Thon: Results Post had the most pageviews this year, but the most comments goes to my Zompacolypse Trick-or-Treat Hop - GIVEAWAY! post with 81 comments. :) I'm a sucker for comments, I always try to either email a reply if it's enabled or comment right on my blog...just in case you guys didn't know that, if you leave a comment, be sure to check if I've replied. Sometimes, I'll go to the commenter's blog to reply, but not always. :P


8. Post You Wished Got A Little More Love?

Hmmm. I think maybe my In the Forests of the Night Review. It's the second book in the Goblin Wars trilogy, and the sequel to Tyger Tyger. I absolutely loved that book, and that series, so I would love to give it as much exposure as I possibly can! :D Plus, I'm pretty sure the one comment I have on it is actually spam...but it doesn't have links, so I figured I'd just leave it. :P

9. Best bookish discover (book related sites, book stores, etc.)?

The Book Cellar on the University of Alberta campus! I love that store! So so so much! They have amazing deals, and I've found some fantastic books there! :D If you're ever there, and you want to know more about it, it's at HUB mall. :)

10.  Did you complete any reading challenges or goals that you had set for yourself at the beginning of this year?

I completed my Goodreads challenge of reading 136 books, but I kind of pushed all of my other reading challenges that I'd planned to participate in to the side. This year, I've got a couple I'm planning on doing, but I chose ones that I really want to do. Last year, I went a bit crazy and just signed up for a bunch. :P

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Looking Ahead...


1. One Book You Didn't Get To In 2011 But Will Be Your Number 1 Priority in 2012?

The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater. I've been wanting to read it for months, and I've heard amazing things, but school got in the way, so even though I have a copy, I haven't gotten to read it yet! I'm so excited for it though! :D

2. Book You Are Most Anticipating For 2012?

Insurgent by Veronica Roth! And Clockwork Princess! And City of Lost Souls! And....lots more!

3. One Thing You Hope To Accomplish Or Do In Your Reading/Blogging In 2012?
Well, I want to try and start writing my reviews right after I finish reading a book. Or at the very least, I want to start maybe writing down my immediate thoughts. I tend to procrastinate in writing my reviews because I squeeze my reading in whenever I can...and often I don't really have time to be reading, let alone writing a review afterwards when I do this, so if I write down my thoughts, it might give me more motivation to get my reviews written more quickly when I do have time.
As I mentioned before, I'd also like to keep track of quotes I like, and also of posts that I enjoy. :D
I'd also like to respond to comments better, and I'd like to try and keep the books I need to review to a more manageable level...I still have a lot of catching up to do!

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Well that's my 2011 with blogging in summary, and my thoughts on the year, and my hopes for 2012!

Have you filled out this survey yourself? If you have feel free to leave a link to yours in the comments, and I'll check it out! :D

Happy Reading!!!

♪♫ Ambur

Review: Prized (Birthmarked #2) by Caragh M. O'Brien

Source: egalley from Netgalley.

Publisher: Roaring Brook Press

Release Date: Already Released.
Number of Pages: 368 (Hardcover)

(Goodreads Link.)

Blurb from Goodreads:

Striking out into the wasteland with nothing but her baby sister, a handful of supplies, and a rumor to guide her, sixteen-year-old midwife Gaia Stone survives only to be captured by the people of Sylum, a dystopian society where women rule the men who drastically outnumber them, and a kiss is a crime.  In order to see her sister again, Gaia must submit to their strict social code, but how can she deny her sense of justice, her curiosity, and everything in her heart that makes her whole?

---

I absolutely loved the first book in this series, Birthmarked, so I was really excited to read Prized, and I wasn't disappointed! While the feel of the two books differs quite a bit, they both still have Gaia, and they both still center around some very amazing women...and powerful women.

In Prized, Gaia has left her home and is now in Sylum. Sylum is completely different than the world she knew before. First, the women are the ones in control, and the leader is a woman. In Sylum, women aren't only in control. They are valued because the men far outnumber them, and as a new member of the society, being a midwife and being a woman, Gaia is highly valued. It seems as if Gaia should have more freedom in this new place, but that couldn't be further from the truth. There are very strict social structures to abide by, and Gaia is pressured and looked at in ways that she never thought she was before.

As to Leon's whereabouts, and his status...well, I can't tell you that. You're just going to have to read Prized to find out. If I told you I'd just spoil it for you after all, but I'll give you at least a taste...Gaia does mention him, more than once...but I won't tell you if that's all the input he has in the story. :P Even without her feelings Leon, Gaia would have found herself in a pretty twisted love situation. Not only does she still think about Leon, but she also has two brothers who are both interested in her. It gets pretty dramatic, and complicated...and it will definitely keep you on your toes.

Birthmarked was an amazing beginning to this series, but Prized holds its own and offers a completely different view of the world, and of Gaia. Being placed in such a different society shows the reader a whole new side of Gaia, and she is challenged in a variety of new ways. I've read in reviews that some people have read Prized before Birthmarked, or without even planning on reading it, and I think you definitely could. You get a lot of history in Prized, without it being redundant though, which is so nice, but I'd recommend reading Birthmarked...if only to get to see lots and lots of Leon. ;) If you loved Birthmarked, Prized will probably surprise you because it certainly feels like a very different story, but once again, you will be captured by the story, and I hope that you will be satisfied, just like I was.

Have you read Prized yet?
How about Birthmarked?
Thoughts on either of the books? :)

Happy Reading!!!

♪♫ Ambur

Random Acts of Kindness: December Wrap-Up!

RAK - Random Acts of Kindness Wrap Up

This month I sent 2 books and received 2 books:

I sent Jenn from waiting on sunday to drown:

I sent Tana from Tana Rae Reads:

AND

Jenn sent me:

Tana sent me:

So, December was a pretty good RAK month for me! :D Thanks Jenn and Tana! I hope you both enjoy your books! I'm glad that I could share Coexist and Hex Hall. I haven't read Coexist yet, but I loved Hex Hall! :D And I've already read a few of the stories in Enthralled and I really liked them. :D I haven't read Errant yet though, but I'm excited too, and I know it'll be a nice quick read, too.

Did you participate in RAK this month?
Did you get any books, or did you send any awesome ones?

Happy Reading!!!

♪♫ Ambur

2012 TBR Pile Reading Challenge

2012 TBR Pile Reading Challenge hosted by Bookish, All I Ever Read, Hands and Home, Book Passion for Life, WatchYA Reading, Mission to Read, Books, Biscuits and Tea, Hooked on Books, Fans of Fiction,and Mermaids Vision.

This challenge is to read through your to-read pile, so only books published in 2011 or earlier are allowed, no 2012 releases! 

Here's a bit of a summary of the Challenge Guidelines: 

It will run from January 1 until December 31, 2012. Each month reviews will be linked to the monthly wrap-up posts which will be hosted on the hosts' blogs. You can move up levels, but not down....so don't start too big. :P Also, at each wrap-up post there will be a unique theme, a mini-challenge, a giveaway, and a place for you to link your reviews to from that month. Each reviews counts as an entry to the giveaway, and participating in the mini-challenge also gets you an entry into the giveaway. December will be the yearly wrap-up and all of your reviews will count as entries, and there will be 12 winners! All of these giveaways are international, but to enter them you will need to follow all of the hosts, however, if you just want to participate in the challenge you don't have to follow all of the hosts.

Levels:
1-10 – A Firm Handshake
11-20 – A Friendly Hug
21-30 – A Sweet Kiss
31-40 – Love At First Sight
41-50 – Married With Children

I'm going with A Friendly Hug first...gonna start on the smaller side and work my way up if it's going well. :P

Here's my tentative list (and like the other challenges, I'll be updating it on my Challenge page):

1. Wither by Lauren DeStefano

2. Fire by Kristin Cashore

3. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

4. Spellbound by Cara Lynn Shultz

5. Delirium by Lauren Oliver

6. A Need So Beautiful by Suzanne Young

7. What Happened to Goodbye by Sarah Dessen

8. Dust by Joan Frances Turner

9. Wuthering Heights by Charlotte Brontë

10. If I Stay by Gayle Forman

11. Touch of Frost by Jennifer Estep

12. Bloodthirsty by Flynn Meaney

13. Stealing Heaven by Elizabeth Scott

14. Before I Die by Jenny Downham

15. The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

16. Thirteen Reasons Why by Jay Asher

17. Hourglass by Myra McEntire

18. Incarceron by Catherine Fisher

19. Fury by Elizabeth Miles

 20. The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin

Since for this one I've got so many books, I'm sure things will change, but these are some that I'd love to get to read in 2012...and I have to read Wuthering Heights for a class, so at least I know I'll get that one read. ;)

Are you participating in the TBR Pile Reading Challenge? 

Even if you aren't, what's one book you'd love to get the chance to finally read in 2012??

I think this is the last challenge I'm going to sign up for, so I'm curious, have you signed up for any challenges? Which ones? :)

Happy Reading!!!

♪♫ Ambur

Completely Contemp Challenge (2012)

I love contemporary books, and any excuse I have to read one sounds fantastic to me! :D A couple of the 2012 ones are on the lists for the other challenges I'm reading, so I might be able to accomplish some of them. :P lol

Completely Contemp Challenge hosted by Chick Loves Lit

With this challenge you get to read more contemporary novels, which I love, and the amount is up to you! You pick a number between 1-99 and then read that amount of contemps for 2010, 2011, and 2012, so in total it'll be 3 times you number. Well, I was going to keep it small, but I'm gonna go big and if I don't make it, well oh well. :P So, I'm picking 6, my favourite number. So in total, I've got 18 books to read for this challenge.

So my tentative lists are, and just like the other challenges, I'll be updating the lists and my progress on the Challenge page of the blog:

2010:
1. Endless Summer by Jennifer Echols
2. The Secret Year by Jennifer R. Hubbard
3. The Star Shack by Lila Castle
4. The Summer of Skinny Dipping by Amanda Howells
5. A Blue So Dark by Holly Schindler
6. Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver
 
2011:
1. Epic Fail by Claire LaZebnik
2. Amplified by Tara Kelly
3. The Future of Us by Jay Asher and Carolyn Mackler
4. Crush Control by Jennifer Jabaley
5. Juliet Immortal by Stacey Jay
6. Stupid Fast by Geoff Herbach
 
2012:
1. The Rivals by Daisy Whitney
2. Isla and the Happily Ever After by Stephanie Perkins
3. Love and Leftovers by Sarah Tregay
4. The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith
5. The Fine Art of Truth or Dare by Melissa Jensen
6. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

If you'd like to participate you can sign up here: Completely Contemp Challenge (2012).

So, did you sign up for this challenge?
Are you a contemporary fan, and have your read any of the ones on my lists already?

Happy Reading!!!

♪♫ Ambur

2012 Standalone Reading Challenge

I'm really excited for this challenge! I love reading standalone books. I love series, but sometimes it so nice to know that once you finish a book, you're finished the book...and you won't be waiting and waiting for more books!

2012 Standalone Reading Challenge hosted by Icey Books and I Like These Books

The challenge is to read (and review) 15 standalone books in 2012! 

So, here's my tentative list (and I'll be updating it on the Challenge page of the blog):

1. The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith

2. This is Not a Test by Courtney Summers

3. The Fine Art of Truth or Dare by Melissa Jensen

4. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green

5. Someone Else's Life by Katie Dale

6. For Darkness Shows the Stars by Diana Peterfreund

7. Breaking Beautiful by Jennifer Shaw Wolf

8. The Boy on Cinnamon Street by Phoebe Stone

9. Just Flirt by Laura Bowers

10. The Raft by S.A. Bodeen

11. My Life Next Door by Huntley Fitzpatrick

12. Darkness Before Dawn by J.A. London

13. The Treachery of Beautiful Things by Ruth Frances Long

14. Shooting Stars by Allison Rushby

15. Enchanted by Alethea Kontis

Fifteen is an awful lot of books to plan to read, so this list will probably change, but all of these are books that I really want to read, so if I can, I'll definitely be reading these! :D 

If you'd like to sign up for this challenge you can sign up at Icey Books or I Like These Books, and those are direct links to the posts about the challenge, so you won't have to look to find it. ;)

Are you participating in this challenge? Are you excited for any of these books?

Happy Reading!!!

♪♫ Ambur

2012 Debut Author Challenge

I signed up for a few challenges last year, but didn't end up doing any of them, well I did do my Goodreads reading challenge, but that was about it. So, this year I've decided to sign up for a few, and the first one I'm signing up for it the Debut Author Challenge. I was thinking about doing this one last year, but never got around to it, so I'm doing it this year. :D I'm pretty excited. Here are some Challenge details, and my tentative list of books to read. I'll also be keeping an up-to-date list on the Challenge page of my blog.

2012 Debut Author Challenge hosted by The Story Siren

So for this one I need to read and review at least 12 books by debut authors. It's changed a bit from what it was before, but it still sounds like it will be awesome, and I'm excited to try it out. :)

Here's a tentative list of the 2012 debuts I'd like to read and review for this challenge:
1. Everneath by Brodi Ashton (January 3)
2. The Queen of Kentucky by Alecia Whitaker (January 3)
3. Tempest by Julie Cross (January 17)
4. Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi (February 7)
5. Article 5 by Kristen Simmons (February 14)
6. The Catastrophic History of You and Me by Jess Rothenberg (February 21)
7. Slide by Jill Hathaway (March 27)
8. Above by Leah Bobbet (April 1)
9. The Immortal City by Scott Speer (April 3)
10. Struck by Jennifer Bosworth (May 3)
11. Something Strange and Deadly by Susan Denard (July 24)
12. Auracle by Gina Rosati (August 7)

If you're interested in partipating, you can find all of the details here: 2012 Debut Author Challenge Page.

Have you already signed up?
What books are you thinking about reading, and which ones are you most excited for?

Happy Reading!!!

♪♫ Ambur

Review: Birthmarked (Birthmarked #1) by Caragh M. O'Brien

Source: Borrowed from the library (definitely want my own copy now though! :D)

Publisher: Roaring Brook Press

Release Date:Already released.
Number of Pages: 362 (Hardcover)

(Goodreads Link.)

Blurb from Goodreads:

IN THE ENCLAVE, YOUR SCARS SET YOU APART, and the newly born will change the future.

Sixteen-year-old Gaia Stone and her mother faithfully deliver their quota of three infants every month. But when Gaia’s mother is brutally taken away by the very people she serves, Gaia must question whether the Enclave deserves such loyalty. A stunning adventure brought to life by a memorable heroine, this dystopian debut will have readers racing all the way to the dramatic finish.

---

If you're anything like me, you aren't even close to being sick of dystopians yet, and I'm sure you're even looking for more of them to read...well, look no further! Birthmarked is fantastic! It is undoubtedly one of the best dystopians out there. It has an incredible narrator, Gaia, who is strong, yet vulnerable, which makes her so easy to relate to. It also has an addictive plot, that you just can't wait to reveal. Plus, it has Leon...he's kind of a big deal, or at least I think he is. ;)

Birthmarked's characters are amazing! Gaia is fierce, but so insecure, and it's wonderful to get to see her transform throughout the story, and to see her stand up for what she believes in. I also loved Leon...who I mentioned before is a big deal. Well he is, in the story, and because I think he's awesome. He's an enigma, and I loved his interactions with Gaia. It was like when you're younger, and you're trying to understand every little thing your crush does, and with Leon there's the added bonus of trying to figure out his mysterious past...plus, he's surrounded in gossip. :P With Gaia, are her fellow midwives, who were some seriously amazing women. They were all so strong, and incredibly intelligent. I think that is one of the most remarkable things about this series--the strong female characters. Gaia doesn't have to rely on Leon. He does help her, but she's strong on her own, and I love that Leon respects that strength. It's wonderful to have a heroine who isn't dependent on being saved all of the time. She plans things on her own, but she isn't overconfident, and when she needs help, she isn't afraid to ask for it. :)

Birthmarked is a truly fantastic story. There is a ruling society, the Enclave, and the subservient society, which Gaia belongs to. The Enclave expects loyalty, and as a midwife, it's Gaia's job to deliver babies that have been "advanced" to live inside the wall with the people of the Enclave. Gaia's mother was a midwife and she did this just like Gaia does, but she and Gaia's father were taken by the Enclave...this action leads to many changes in Gaia's live, and eventually leads to her standing up for her beliefs. Birthmarked is intense, and it will keep you on your toes. At times, it's a bit mysterious, with secret codes and things that are hidden from Gaia. As she discovers more, the story becomes even more intense, and from the moment you finish Birthmarked, I guarantee that you will want to get your hands on a copy of its sequel, Prized!

If you like dystopians that keep you hooked until the last page, and strong heroines that will make you want to be stronger, then you will love Birthmarked...and if you're picking yourself up a copy...get Prized too, because you seriously will not want to wait between books!

Happy Reading!!!

♪♫ Ambur

Review: Clockwork Prince (The Infernal Devices #2) by Cassandra Clare

Source: ARC sent by Simon and Schuster Canada for an honest review.

Publisher: Margaret K. McElderry Books

Release Date: December 6, 2011
Number of Pages: 497 (hardcover)
(Goodreads Link.)

Blurb from Goodreads:

In the magical underworld of Victorian London, Tessa Gray has at last found safety with the Shadowhunters. But that safety proves fleeting when rogue forces in the Clave plot to see her protector, Charlotte, replaced as head of the Institute. If Charlotte loses her position, Tessa will be out on the street and easy prey for the mysterious Magister, who wants to use Tessa's powers for his own dark ends. 

With the help of the handsome, self-destructive Will and the fiercely devoted Jem, Tessa discovers that the Magister's war on the Shadowhunters is deeply personal. He blames them for a long-ago tragedy that shattered his life. To unravel the secrets of the past, the trio journeys from mist-shrouded Yorkshire to a manor house that holds untold horrors, from the slums of London to an enchanted ballroom where Tessa discovers that the truth of her parentage is more sinister than she had imagined. When they encounter a clockwork demon bearing a warning for Will, they realize that the Magister himself knows their every move and that one of their own has betrayed them.

Tessa finds her heart drawn more and more to Jem, though her longing for Will, despite his dark moods, continues to unsettle her. But something is changing in Will; the wall he has built around himself is crumbling. Could finding the Magister free Will from his secrets and give Tessa the answers about who she is and what she was born to do?

As their dangerous search for the Magister and the truth leads the friends into peril, Tessa learns that when love and lies are mixed, they can corrupt even the purest heart.

---

I loved Clockwork Angel, and I have been waiting anxiously for Clockwork Prince, so when an ARC of CP turned up in my mailbox, I literally screamed and jumped for joy....I also had a smile on my face for at least a day afterwards. I immediately dropped everything and started reading...and I didn't stop until I finished.

Clockwork Prince is a remarkable story. It will hook you from the very first page, and will keep you in its thrall until its very last...it will also keep you guessing. I absolutely loved Clockwork Prince. As always, Cassandra Clare has delivered yet another beautiful (and addictive) piece of fiction. The characters draw you in even further into their story, and they will tear at your heartstrings. You may actually have to put the book down for a bit, just to compose yourself...I know I did.

This book had me in tears. It had me laughing, and above all it put a smile on my face. As heartbreaking as Clockwork Prince is, I cannot deny how much this book drew me in. I loved that I got to learn more about Will, so so much. I love Will, and just like I did in Clockwork Angel, through CP, I just wanted to give the poor boy a hug. He's been through so much, and I promise you that even if you didn't like Will in Clockwork Angel, you will like him after Clockwork Prince...and that will tear you up inside.

I may love Will, but I still like Jem, and I think it's fantastic that in Clockwork Prince you see a new side of him. A happier and more playful one. Cassandra Clare has mentioned that if CA was Will's book, CP is Jem's...well, I don't really think it is. I think Clockwork Prince showcases them both, and I think ultimately, that makes it more difficult for the reader, and for Tessa. Both boys are so remarkable...yes, Will, too! Seriously, read CP if you don't believe me. :P The fact that they are both incredible, and they are so close makes it hard for the reader, and Tessa...I'll let you read the book to see how all of that plays out...although, it definitely won't really be settled until Clockwork Princess, but the fact that they're both so amazing makes it heartbreaking. You love them both, or at the very least you love one and like the other, and either way you want them both to be happy...and for both boys to be happy something clearly has to change....okay, I'm stopping this train of thought now because I'm starting to tear up, and I really want to avoid spoiling anything.

I've waited a while to post my review for Clockwork Prince, and it wasn't because I didn't like it, because I loved it...it was because I was so tormented after reading it. I'm still heartbroken over this book. I can't think of it without wanting to burst into tears, or at the very least, lapse into silence and think for a very long time. This book will linger in your mind long after you've read it, and it will have you wishing for Clockwork Princess like you have never wished for anything before.

If you've already read Clockwork Angel, then I doubt I need to tell you to read this one, but if you haven't started this series yet, you seriously need to. The Infernal Devices is a fantastic series! It's addictive, it's fast-paced, it's steampunk, and it has unbelievably and inconceivably remarkable characters! Seriously, this book and this series have me gushing. If you ever decide to take my personal advice on a book or series to read...it should be this one. I can only say I'm serious so much in one review...but honestly, get started on this series. You will not be sorry! :)

Any takers? Are you a newbie to Cassandra Clare and want to start one of her series?
Have you read Clockwork Prince already? Were you heartbroken? Were you satisfied? Are you craving more stat?

Happy Reading!!!

♪♫ Ambur

It's Monday, What Are You Reading? (58)

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading?, is a bookish meme hosted by One Person's Journey Through a World of Books, where we gather to share what we have read this past week and what we plan to read this week. It’s a great way to network with other bloggers, see some wonderful blogs, and put new titles on your reading list. So hop on over to Journey and join in...and leave a comment here so I can check out what you are reading.

Books I Read Last Week:

• Dark Companion by Marta Acosta

I liked this one. It's a compelling story, but their were a few little things that I wasn't a huge fan of, but overall, it's a great story. :)

• Wings of the Wicked (Angelfire #2) by Courtney Allison Moulton

I absolutely loved Wings of the Wicked! I couldn't put it down, and I can't wait until the next one. :D

Reading Now:

• Lost in Time (Blue Bloods #6) by Melissa de la Cruz

I'm finally getting to this one, and I'm enjoying it. It's interesting, it has Allegra's POV in it,and it's back in the past...pretty neat. :D

Books I Want to Read This Week:

• The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks

I want to read this one so bad! I'm gonna try to get to it before the movie comes out...can't wait!

I have way more I want to read, but I keep changing my mind, so I'll stick to talking about just reading one. :P

And what are you reading???

Check out One Person's Journey Through a World of Books to see what other people are reading. :)

Happy Reading!!!

♪♫ Ambur

In My Mailbox (23)

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren, and inspired by her friend, Alea of Pop Culture Junkie. It's a way to share the books that you've received over the past week. They could come from the bookstore, the library, a friend, your mailbox or wherever. It gives us all a chance to showcase the books that we've gotten, and maybe give others an idea for the book they want to read or buy next. :)

For Review:

Alienation (C.H.A.O.S. #2) by Jon S. Lewis (BookSneeze)
Welcome, Caller, This is Chloe by Shelley Coriell (NetGalley)
The Marked (Delacroix Academy #2) by Inara Scott (NetGalley)
On a Dark Wing by Jordan Dane (NetGalley)
The Hunger but Mainly Death Games: A Parody by Bratniss Everclean (from author)
In the Forests of the Night (Goblin Wars #2) by Kersten Hamilton (Thomas Allen and Sons) (Unsolicited)
Au Revoir, Crazy European Chick by Joe Schreiber (Thomas Allen and Sons) (Unsolicited)
The White Assassin (Nightshade Chronicles #2) by Hilary Wagner (Thomas Allen and Sons) (Unsolicited)
The Queen of Kentucky by Alecia Whitaker (Hachette Book Group Canada)
The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith (Thomas Allen and Sons) x2
Enchantment by Pati Nagle (LibraryThing Early Reviewer)


Oh, I'm so excited for the NetGalley ones. :D I got a few unsolicited ones from Thomas Allen and Sons this week, and I've read In the Forests of the Night already, but they sent me a finished copy, and I'm not really interested in The White Assassin...so I might have a giveaway for it, along with the second copy of The Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight. Might take a while though. :)

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Bought: 

Hereafter (Hereafter #1) by Tara Hudson
10 Things We Did (and Probably Shouldn't Have) by Sarah Mlynowski
Stupid Fast by Geoff Herbach
Smokeless Fire (Fire Spirits #1) by Samantha Young
Intrinsical (The Yara Silva Trilogy #1) by Lani Woodland
The Liar Society by Lisa and Laura Roecker
 The Unidentified by Rae Mariz
A Blue So Dark by Holly Schlinder
Real Mermaids Don't Wear Toe Rings (Real Mermaids #1) by Helen Boudreau
StarCrossed (Thief Errant #1) by Elizabeth C. Bunce


I got all of these from Amazon's Kindle Store. They were all on sale...and as I've said, I'm a sucker for sales. :P

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Christmas Gifts: 

Angelfire (Angelfire #1) by Courtney Allison Moulton
The Inheritance Almanac by Michael Macauley and edited by Mark Vaz
Dearly Departed (Gone With the Respiration #1) by Lia Habel
Shatter Me (Shatter Me #1) by Tahereh Mafi
The Mockingbirds (The Mockingbirds #1) by Daisy Whitney
The Faerie Ring (The Faerie Ring #1) by Kiki Hamilton
Sweetly (Fairytale Retellings #2) by Jackson Pearce
I Kissed a Zombie, and I Liked It by Adam Selzer
The Pledge (The Pledge #1) by Kimberly Derting
Crossed (Matched #2) by Ally Condie


I was spoiled for Christmas this year. My mom and dad gave me the first 9, and my best friend gave me Crossed. :) My brother also ordered me some books, but they didn't come in before Christmas. I'm so excited to read all of these. :D I hope everybody else got lots of the books on their wishlists. :D

Happy Reading!!!

♪♫ Ambur

Review: Instinct (A Holloway Pack Story #0 - Prequel) by J.A. Belfield

 Source: Received an ebook from publisher for an honest review.

Publisher: J.Taylor Publishing

Release Date: January 1, 2012
Visit its page on the publisher website: Instinct

(Goodreads Link.)

Description:

Werewolf Sean Holloway treats the village marketplace like a sexual buffet, though his charm does little to win over his latest entrée of choice. Whether because of Jem Stonehouse’s unique scent, her headstrong nonchalance, or the fact he is forbidden to see her by his pack’s rules, Sean wants her.

When Jem is nothing but flippant toward his advances, he pursues her with vigour, stealing moments alone with her without a libido-driven agenda.

The new and heady experience for him drives their relationship beyond romantic interest, and straight toward love.

That is, until Jem learns the truth about Sean’s heritage. Knowledge of the existence of werewolves leads to only one outcome: death.

In this prequel to Darkness & Light, we are taken back in time, to the very beginning of Jem and Sean’s love-across-the-centuries relationship.

Did it end there? Or did Sean defy his own pack to save the woman he loves?

---

Well, I'm sure it will come as no surprise that I loved Instinct. I have yet to read one of J.A. Belfield's books that I haven't liked, or loved actually...and if Sean's involved, it usually leads to an automatic love for me. (Although, I love me some Ethan, too, but I think everyone does really. ;D)

Instinct is a novella that predates Darkness and Light, it also predates the Sean and Jem from it...in fact, this novella shows the very first Sean and Jem. I love that we get to see Sean and Jem in a different time, and get to see them being completely different. Don't get me wrong, I love Darkness and Light Sean and Jem, but I'm also a huge sucker for past lives. :)

Sean is a big-time womanizer...seriously, he has a different lady every Tuesday...the one time his older brother (and alpha) lets him visit the market...until he meets Jem that is. :) Once Sean smells Jem's wonderful scent and lays eyes on her, he is a total goner. Other girls just don't appeal to him anymore, and he actually wants to...egad!...talk to a woman...while she still has clothes on. Blasphemy, but he does it. :P Okay, now I'm going to be serious. Sean pretty much does a 180 once he meets Jem, and the more time he spends with her, the more compelled he becomes. I loved falling in love with them. It was wonderful, and despite all of the things standing in their way, Sean is still determined to be with her. He's just so determined, and I love that about Sean...even if he is a total extremist. :P

One of the things that I found the most interesting about Instinct was that we get Sean's side of their love. In Darkness and Light, it's all Jem, so Instinct is almost a reversal in a sense, especially since Jem seems to be more hesitant one in their relationship. In Instinct, the circumstances are all different, and Jem is unsure, but a lot more willing to be with Sean...of course, she also doesn't have a husband already in this one. :P

I loved Instinct! It's a fantastic novella, and I think you could read it before or after Darkness and Light. It's really up to you, but personally, I liked having read Darkness and Light because it was kind of nice going from where they are now to looking back at where their relationship truly started. I completely recommend Instinct, and the rest of the books in the Holloway Pack series. I love this series, and I think that J.A. Belfield tells amazing werewolf stories. :D

Have you read any of J.A. Belfield's books yet? Thoughts on Sean?
Do you like werewolves? What about British werewolves...hmmm?
And, what do you think about past lives?

Happy Reading!!!

♪♫ Ambur

Review: Static by Tawny Stokes

Static by Tawny Stokes
Source: I was provided a reviewer's copy by Bewitching Book Tours for an honest review.

Release Date: Already Released.
Number of Pages: 296 (Paperback)

(Goodreads Link.)

                                     Blurb from Goodreads:

Be careful what you listen to....

During the summer before her senior year, 17 year old band groupie, Salem Vale, has been following her favorite punk rockers, Malice, from gig to gig hoping that one night she might get backstage and meet the sinisterly sexy guys. She’s been saving her virginity for the lead singer Thane. One fateful evening she gets her wish. It’s a dream come true.

Except the dream turns to a nightmare when she wakes up in a dumpster, tossed away like yesterday’s trash, with no memory of what happened the night before. She feels strange, different, as if something is trying to get out. Soon she realizes she’s changing…turning into something not quite human.

Now a hunger deep inside claws at her to feed, to siphon energy from those around her. Before she can do just that, Trevor, the band’s roadie shows up and stops her from killing. With his help she learns to control the hunger inside, because he’s just like her. And in return he wants her help to do one little thing…

Help him kill the members of Malice.

---

 I thoroughly enjoyed reading Static. It's a fast-paced story, with an incredibly unique paranormal aspect going on. I don't want to spoil you all by telling you what paranormal being Static involves, but it's definitely a rarity in YA, and Tawny even includes a mythical figure in it...again, I won't mention who, but I'll give you a hint...in most version of his myth, he's pretty tight with King Arthur. ;)

Salem was a fantastic main character, she was feisty, and had a personality that jumped right off of the page. I also totally sympathized with her obsession with Malice...I know I've been obsessed with a band or two, and I'm sure Salem and I aren't alone in that. I loved how even though she was changing, Salem didn't give up. She was scared, and she was confused, but once she had some guidance through Trevor, she knew what she was aiming for...although, she still had some moments where she freaked out, which I loved because it made her that much easier to relate to. Now, I've already mentioned Trevor, and you were probably like, "Trevor? Who's Trevor?" Well, Trevor is one of Malice's roadies, and he helps Salem through her transition...as he's been through it himself, he knows a little bit of what she's going through. :P

The plot of the book itself was awesome. I loved the whole music aspect, which was brief, but still stood out to me, and I especially loved the folklore that Tawny Stokes brought into the story as background to the type of paranormal being Malice was. The whole revenge aspect was also a win with me. I thought that the reason behind Trevor's desire for revenge was heartbreaking, and it fit incredibly well with the story, and I thought that Tawny did a great job exploring Trevor past, even though it was brief, I still felt like he was a well-developed character. The one aspect that I wasn't the biggest fan of was how the ending of the book progressed. There was a tonne of build up, but then when the big finale arrived, it was a bit rushed. I felt that it could have been played out for a little longer. Other than the ending being a bit rushed, I thought that it was fantastic. :)

Static is a story charged with live wire characters full of attitude. I'd recommend it to anyone who loves paranormal and is looking for something a little different, and also to anyone who loves characters with spunk. Plus, if you like a good revenge plot, you'll love this! 

Purchase Links:
Book Depository: UK / US
Amazon: UK / US / Canada
Barnes and Noble

Now, a couple of questions for you: 

Have you read Static, yet?
What kinds of paranormal beings would you like to see more of, and which ones are you tired of?
Any guesses on the mystery man I mentioned before? ;)

Happy Reading!!!

♪♫ Ambur

It's Monday, What Are You Reading? (57)

It’s Monday! What Are You Reading?, is a bookish meme hosted by One Person's Journey Through a World of Books, where we gather to share what we have read this past week and what we plan to read this week. It’s a great way to network with other bloggers, see some wonderful blogs, and put new titles on your reading list. So hop on over to Journey and join in...and leave a comment here so I can check out what you are reading.

Books I Read Last Week:

• Cold Kiss by Amy Garvey

I scrambled to finish this one so that I could return it to the library without late fees, and I totally did it. :) I actually really liked this one. I thought it was an interesting twist on zombies, and I think you all know by now that I like me some zombies. :)

• In the Skin of a Lion by Michael Ondaatje

I managed to finish this one in time for my final, yay! And I actually really liked it, too. It's an interesting story, and it's told in an interesting way. I'd definitely recommend this one if you're looking for something that makes you think. Just be warned, it isn't a traditional story, and it'll definitely leave you with more questions than answers, but it's still an incredible read. :)

• Instinct (A Holloway Pack Story #0) by J.A. Belfield

Loved this one! I knew I would...I'm a sucker for anything Sean-related. ;) I'll be reviewing this one soon, and I'll probably have it up within the week...once I'm done exams. :D

• Everybody Loves a Hero...and that's the problem by Marie Force

First...I love this cover! I think I drool a little bit every time I see it. haha Second, this is a great story. It's an extremely quick read, or at least it was for me, and it tells a beautiful story. I plan on reading more of Marie's books in the future, she tells a wonderful romance. :)

• Hallowed (Unearthly #2) by Cynthia Hand

Eeek! So, I meant to just start this book this weekend, and read a couple chapters. I ended up getting hooked, and read it all in pretty much one straight sitting. I stayed up until 5 in the morning reading it...and it was so worth it. :) I'm definitely anxious for the next book now! I'm not sure when I'll post my review for this one. It probably won't be until closer to the release date, but just know, it's awesome! This is one sequel that holds its own against the first book in the series!

Reading Now:

• Dark Companion by Marta Acosta

Just started this one. I meant to read it months ago, but with school it got pushed to the side...my whole Kindle kind of did for a bit, but I've been reading more and more kindle books in the last bit, and this one is on my radar right now. I've got one more exam left, and then I'm going to devour all these books! haha

• Wings of the Wicked (Angelfire #2) by Courtney Allison Moulton

I also started this one the other day, but I've been resisting the pull to get further into it because I know I won't get any studying done if I succumb to it's power. I have read the first chapter though...and it was so hard to stop! Can't wait to keep reading this one! :D

Books I Want to Read This Week:

• Dark of the Moon by Tracy Barrett

I got this one for review months ago, but I'm moving it to the top now! I'm really excited for this one. I love stories based on mythology and this one sounds fantastic! :D

• Falling for Hamlet by Michelle Ray

Another one I got months ago, and I'm so anxious to start it. I've had it sitting beside my bed for months now, and I'm glad that I'll finally have time to start it soon. :D

And what are you reading???

Check out One Person's Journey Through a World of Books to see what other people are reading. :)

Happy Reading!!!

♪♫ Ambur

In My Mailbox (22)

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by Kristi at The Story Siren, and inspired by her friend, Alea of Pop Culture Junkie. It's a way to share the books that you've received over the past week. They could come from the bookstore, the library, a friend, your mailbox or wherever. It gives us all a chance to showcase the books that we've gotten, and maybe give others an idea for the book they want to read or buy next. :)

Review:

The Light of Asteria (Kailmeyra #1) by Elizabeth Isaacs (for blog tour)
Stellarnet Rebel by J.L. Hilton (NetGalley)
Slide by Jill Hathaway (NetGalley)


Well, I totally spaced last week and forgot to include The Light of Asteria, so I added it this week. :) I also got accepted for two awesome titles on NetGalley. :D

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R.A.K.:

Errant (Killer Unicorns Short Story) by Diana Peterfreund (from Jenn
Enthralled edited by Melissa Marr and Kelley Armstrong (from Tana)


This is another one I've spaced on for the last little while. I received Errant a couple of weeks ago from Jenn...and since it was during all of my essays, it totally slipped my mind. And I received Enthralled earlier this week from Tana. :) I've already read a couple of the stories in it and I really like them. :D

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Bought:

Tomorrow is Today (Tempest #0.5) by Julie Cross (free from Amazon Kindle Store)
Tangled by Carolyn Mackler (Amazon Kindle Store)
Vampire Vacation (The V V Inn #1) by C.J. Ellisson (Amazon Kindle Store)
Mr. Darcy Goes Overboard: A Tale of Tide and Prejudice by Belinda Roberts (Amazon Kindle Store)


Well Tomorrow is Today is a free extra from the Tempest series, and the other three books were all on sale, and they're all ones that I've been wanting, so I jumped at the chance to get them. :D

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Won:

Sins of the Angels (Grigori Legacy #1) by Linda Poitevin (won from Lost for Words)

I had Sins of the Angels come in this week, and I'm definitely intrigued by the story, it sounds exciting. :D

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Well, that was my mailbox. How about you, what did you get this week? Feel free to leave a link to your IMM, and since I'll be done my last final on Tuesday (YES!), I'll probably be able to actually reply this week. :P

Happy Reading!!!

♪♫ Ambur