Texas Gothic by Rosemary Clement-Moore

Amy Goodnight's family is far from normal. She comes from a line of witches, but tries her best to stay far outside the family business. Her summer gig? Ranch-sitting for her aunt with her wacky but beautiful sister. Only the Goodnight Ranch is even less normal than it normally is. Bodies are being discovered, a ghost is on the prowl, and everywhere she turns, the hot neighbor cowboy is in her face.

Thoughts...

I had a constant thought while reading this book....this sort of, kind of reminds me of Scooby Doo and the Monster in Mexico. lol  That might sound mean, but I say it in the best way.  In Texas Gothic, we are presented with an ecclectic group of people that band to group together to solve the mystery (the teacher even refers to them as the gang at one point, I mean come on!).  Only in Texas Gothic, you get the actual bad guy dressed up in the mask making people think he is a ghost AND you get several actual ghosts.  Overall, this was a good story. I like the characters well enough.  I really liked Amy and her sister Phin.  They come from a STRANGE family, the Goodnights, but turned out well enough.  I did want the relationship with Amy and Ben to develop faster than it did. The physical attraction and sexual tension was dripping off the pages and it didn't seem to get us anywhere for quite a while. Rosemary Clement-Moore wrote a unique Texan mystery novel that will keep you guessing. This is worth a read. 

I would rate this at about 3 1/2 stars probably higher if the story line would have moved just a bit faster...

Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire

Good Reads Description:

The new Abby Abernathy is a good girl. She doesn’t drink or swear, and she has the appropriate percentage of cardigans in her wardrobe. Abby believes she has enough distance between her and the darkness of her past, but when she arrives at college with her best friend America, her path to a new beginning is quickly challenged by Eastern University’s Walking One-Night Stand.

Travis Maddox, lean, cut, and covered in tattoos, is exactly what Abby needs—and wants—to avoid. He spends his nights winning money in a floating fight ring, and his days as the charming college co-ed. Intrigued by Abby’s resistance to his charms, Travis tricks her into his daily life with a simple bet. If he loses, he must remain abstinent for a month. If Abby loses, she must live in Travis’ apartment for the same amount of time. Either way, Travis has no idea that he has met his match.

Thoughts...

Wow, I am not sure what to say about this book. The cover and description don't accurately portray what you are getting yourself into.  This book was fantastic!  I spend the first three hours straight smiling like a fool.  Seriously, my cheeks hurt! And when I literally was laughing out loud, I thought my husband was going to think I was a loon.

There are very few times that I can recall that I liked all of the main characters in a story. I really liked Abby's personality. She doesn't put up with anyone's crap.  She is smart, beautiful, and fiesty.  For some reason, lately a lot of books I have read have horrible best friends.  Finally, here is a book with a great supportive true best friend.  America truly has Abby's back at every turn.  Everyone would wish for a friend like America.  Now, Travis, Travis, Travis.  I like the bad boy image. (Hell, I think I even married the bad boy IMAGE.) Please note that Image is the whole point. Travis puts up a front and I guess he is a bad boy in a lot of ways, but not when it comes to "Pidgeon". (The nickname grew on me - but it still is an odd choice.) He might be agressive and wild, but when it comes to Abby, she is his world. They are perfect for each other even if at times, they are indeed a beautiful disaster.

I was surprised by the depth that each character brought to the story, I was expecting a light read with a little bit of drama, but this was so much more. It still was an easy read and I blew through this book in a matter of hours, but it wasn't just a frivalous teen novel.  I want to include that the characters are in college so the book does include sex, vulgar language, and violence. All great to me, but it might not be appropriate for some younger readers.  I came extremely close to rating this with 5 stars, but alas I am giving it 4.5 stars. My only one draw back is that once the "real drama" started to unfod, I felt like it might have lasted a bit too long.  I was ready for Abby and Travis to get there shit together and live happily ever after. I feel bad even for saying that the drama was drawn out too long because even then the book was interesting. I kept waiting to find out what Travis was going to pull next. :)  It is a long book at 454 pages, but I breezed through it wishing for more.

I absolutely adored this book. It was just what I needed to read this weekend. I finished the book 30 minutes ago and I am already nostalgic for the beginning of Abby and Travis' relationship. This really was a great book. I feel like I can never say enough good things about books I love. If I had to compare this book to any others, the first that comes to mind is Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles.  I might say I even enjoyed this one even more! I am torn, but I just might.  Go out and pick this book up now!

Later-

The Vampire Diaries by L.J. Smith

The Vampire Diaries by L.J. Smith

Goodreads Description:
A regular on national bestseller lists, having sold well over three million copies, The Vampire Diaries series is a classic of thrilling paranormal romance. The Vampire Diaries series has captured the hearts and imaginations of readers—and the CW network TV show that it inspired has introduced millions more to the chills, thrills, and heart-stopping romance.

Thoughts..
These books were just OK to me.  I was never overly enthralled by these books. They kept my attention, but they aren't a "can't put this book down / sleep is overrated" kind of book. I have said this with another series, but I will continue to read these books as long as they keep publishing them though. I guess I am a glutton for punishment. A series would have to be downright horrible for me to stop reading before I am finished. I have a need to know what happens!

I only started reading the series when I saw the previews for the show Vampire Diaries. Now, the previews got my attention. So off I went to the store and picked up the books. I believe I got to read most of them back to back which was nice.  I only had to wait for the last two.  That probably helped me getting through the series.

My biggest problem with the series: I can't get used to L.J. Smith's writing style. I have such a hard time picturing / understanding what she is trying to portray.  Stuff will just happen out of nowhere and I have to jump back up 3 paragraphs and reread just to figure out what the hell is going on.

The series has SO MUCH POTENTIAL. I loved the premise...Humans, Vampires, Werewolves, Witches, and even Angels (?).  There was a fair amount of suspense in the books. I found that the first set of books flowed nicely for me. But, by the time I got to The Returned Series, they were dragging just a bit. We dealt with the damn kitsune for what like 3 books? I was so over it! How much trouble can a little half fox creature cause? Well, apparrently a whole hell of a lot.

I got so frustrated with the love triangle in this story! Elena and Stephan were just TOO sappy.  I didn't feel that the characters were written with teenagers (or real people) in mind.  I guess it goes by to the whole otherwordly love they share with one another.  But, dang it, sometimes I wanted to gag at how overly sweet they were with each other.  And then don't get me started with Elena! She LOVES Stephan, but is OK  with having all these conflicting feelings (and actions) with Damon.

 Honestly, I am Team Damon!! I want Elena to end up with Damon so bad, but I don't think that is ever going to happen.  There is no way that Elena could redeem herself after choosing Damon.  That would be ruthless. However, I still want L.J. to make that happen for me. Damon may be a bit selfish at times, a jerk most of the time, and evil the rest of time, but you have to love the dark and mysterious character!

I don't want to give too many spoilers away around here, but I thought that the last published book was the last book forever.  Some sad shit went down that I will even admit that I might have had a tear.  I was so not OK with what happened at first. I was looking for L.J. to pull some of her crazy ideas out and fix that for me. Alas, she did not, so during the last chapter I dealt with it and accepted it. Now, I was fine with the ending of this book until she wrote ONE word and stirred the whole crazy pot back up.  Everything I thought I had dealt with well now I have no idea what to think! 

There are talks of another trilogy, but L.J. Smith might not be writing them....we will see my friends, we will see. It's like I said, if they publish it, I will read it.

Update, I read the newest book in the series / trilogy...Phantom.  My thoughts and feelings were pretty much the same as above. They were "OK".  Enough said...

NOW, onto the TV show....

I love me some Vampire Diaries on the CW.  The credits on the show should say "inspired by" the novels as a disclaimer because they are loosely based on the books (which is probably good for me).  They have added so many new things to the show that I forget what even really happened in the books. The characters are way better on the show. Elena is sassier, Stefan has a back bone, Damon is even hotter (lol), Bonnie is not a fainter, and Alaric isn't a teacher that dates a student.  I definitely recommend this show.  Every Friday morning, Sassy and I spend at least 30 minutes discussing what happened the night before on TVD.  Half of our time might be spend talking about Damon (Ian Somerhalder). If you have read any previous posts, you know we are fans of his. He plays a perfect Damon.

So did I completely turn you off from these books? I didn't mean to, but apparently I have some pretty strong feelings about them.  I do recommend them, just don't expect an epic experience.

Purpose by Kristie Cook

Thoughts…

I don’t know about anyone else, but the beginning of this book was hard to handle.  I won’t go into detail in case you haven’t read the first book, Promise, in this series, but Alexis is very depressed. The depression is what makes about a large portion at the beginning of the book. The author takes us where Stephenie Meyer did not take us in New Moon. In New Moon, most of the depression is skipped over and shown with simple pages marked with a month.  In Purpose, the author explains the emotions that Alexis is dealing with down to the “alternate” personalities that she has (evil, swirly, foggy, and almost Alexis).  It was tough reading about. While I appreciate the vivid descriptions, I wanted Alexis to get over herself and just do something. Good or bad, just act!

I’m not sure why, but I didn’t love this book as much as the first one.  Maybe it is because I felt like the plot didn’t develop fast enough. I normally never ever say this, but I found a lot of similarities between this book and Twilight.  Seriously, I try to never compare things to Twilight because it is too cliché.  Young adult paranormal books are always going to have similarities to Twilight.  But, this one had A LOT.  I don’t feel like I can go into too much detail without giving away any spoilers.

Here is how I break it down, the first book, Promise, was wonderful. I considered it a must read. Before beginning the next book, Purpose, I felt that it was a must read since you were left with such a cliff hanger from the first book. However, after reading the second book, I am not loving this series as much. The third book in the series comes out next year and I am sure that I will read it just to find out where everything is going with Tristen and Alexis.

Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins

Good Reads Description:

Anna is looking forward to her senior year in Atlanta, where she has a great job, a loyal best friend, and a crush on the verge of becoming more. Which is why she is less than thrilled about being shipped off to boarding school in Paris - until she meets Etienne St. Clair: perfect, Parisian (and English and American, which makes for a swoon-worthy accent), and utterly irresistible. The only problem is that he's taken, and Anna might be, too, if anything comes of her almost-relationship back home.

As winter melts into spring, will a year of romantic near - misses end with the French kiss Anna - and readers - have long awaited?

Thoughts...

Awww! I loved this book. Do you ever feel like you just need to read something light and easy? I do. And this would be one of those books.  It was so cute and so sweet. I literally laughed out loud during some parts of the book.  There are a great set of characters in Anna and the French Kiss. Anna seems like a cool chick. She doesn't care too much what other kids think (for the most part). She is film junkie, aspring to me a film critic that wears a bleached stripe in her otherwise dark brown hair. Her father forces her to boarding school in France as it is the new cultural experience for children. Anna goes kicking and screaming the whole way. She doesn't want to leave her best friends in Atlanta behind. And she leaves just when things are getting good between her and her co-worker, Toph. On her first day, Anna meets her new neighbor, Meridith.  Life is lookin up for Anna after Meridith takers her under her wing and introduces her to her friends. Anna's new click. Life gets interesting when Anna literally runs into Etienne St. Clair.

I might have a little teen girl crush on St. Clair.  I love me an accent especialy an English accent.  St. Clair is from England, fluent in French as he spends much time in Franch due to it being his fathers home, and lives in the United States. Anna says it best when she calls him a mutt. That he is, but an oh, so sweet one.  Anna and St. Clair have wonderful chemistry.  They are honestly great friends. He is wonderful to her. I'm not sure what girl wouldn't want a St. Clair in her life.  As all guys in novels are never perfect, St. Clair's downfall (to me) was his weakness.  If you have already read the book, please don't think I am referring to his mother, father, or any other thing that happens to him. Those are justifiable reasons for holing yourself up in your room. No, St. Clair was weak and just plain stupid when it came to Ellie.  That bothered me several times throughout the book. 

Paris sounds so romantic and wonderful. After reading this, I want to go there immediately. (Hah, maybe in my dreams...) I loved every page of this book. It is a sweet and wonderful coming of age story.  Like I said, this a light and easy read, but I still couldn't put the book down. My cheeks actually hurt when I finished this book at 1:00 am this morning.

Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini

Good Reads Description:

Loading...

Loading...

               

How do you defy destiny?
Helen Hamilton has spent her entire sixteen years trying to hide how different she is—no easy task on an island as small and sheltered as Nantucket. And it's getting harder. Nightmares of a desperate desert journey have Helen waking parched, only to find her sheets damaged by dirt and dust. At school she's haunted by hallucinations of three women w

...moreHow do you defy destiny?
Helen Hamilton has spent her entire sixteen years trying to hide how different she is—no easy task on an island as small and sheltered as Nantucket. And it's getting harder. Nightmares of a desperate desert journey have Helen waking parched, only to find her sheets damaged by dirt and dust. At school she's haunted by hallucinations of three women weeping tears of blood . . . and when Helen first crosses paths with Lucas Delos, she has no way of knowing they're destined to play the leading roles in a tragedy the Fates insist on repeating throughout history.
As Helen unlocks the secrets of her ancestry, she realizes that some myths are more than just legend. But even demigod powers might not be enough to defy the forces that are both drawing her and Lucas together—and trying to tear them apart.

Thoughts...

Once and while, you stumble upon a great book that sticks with you even after you turned the last page. Starcrossed is one of those books. I sat for while after finishing and just pondered some of the characters motives and wondered what would happen next in the sequel. This is definitely a must read.  Starcrossed was incredible!  This part of the review will be short and sweet, but beware below, there will be spoilers because I need to vent!  I always loved mythology in high school and this book makes me wish that I had paid more attention.  The book is full of mythology lessons that are very interesting as they become intertwined into every day life.  There are so many twists, turns, and gasps in this book that some parts just left me reeling.  Nothing turned out as I expected...NOTHING.  It was so so good!

SPOILERS BELOW.....



OK, So I hope you have read this if you are reading here...one more chance to scroll back up because I DO NOT want to spoil any gasp worthy moments!


So, I am not going in order to here, but just what comes to mind.  The thing that I can't get over right now is the whole "Hi Lucas, by the way Lucas, were first cousins and now I need to throw up." Um what? I never saw that shit coming.  NEVER, I say. How many times did they mention that Ajax was killed 19 (yes, 19) years ago?  More than a few if I remembered it as soon as I read the bit about being cousins.  Now, people, mere mortals as ourselves can do the math to figure this one out, so surely Demigods wouldn't have to much trouble thinking about the fact that it just don't add up!  Again, Ajax died 19 years ago, Helen had literally just turned 17 days before the news broke out, and finally her mother would have only been pregnant for 9 months.  Hmmmm.....We have a little over a year gap here people! Why would no one have thought this through?!

Which leads me to my next though, I DO NOT trust Helen's mother. She is definitely up to something. She definitely has alterior motives when it comes to the Delos family and her own daughter.  She has plans for her daughter Helen that do not include Lucas. I haven't figured out why yet. I do think that she wanted Pandora to be killed for at least two reasons, she would reveal her secret that Helen and Lucas were not actually cousins and also to create chaos in the Delos home.  It wasn't just about stalling for time. With everyone mourning the death of Pandora and the fact that Hector was deemed an outcast, she will be able to get away with much much more than she would have. The spot light is lifted from her. I feel like she might also try to manipulate Hector into doing her bidding since she has befriended him at such a low time in his life.

I need these answers. I need the next book. PLEASE!!!!

Promise by Kristie Cook

Good Reads Description:

Alexis Ames decides to learn who she really is, with or without the help of her mother, who guards their secrets closely. After meeting Tristan Knight and discovering that he s not normal either, the secrets begin to unravel. Their union brings promise to the future of mankind. But it also incites a dangerous pursuit by the enemy. Because they are a match made in Heaven and in Hell.

Thoughts..

First off, the cover and book description do not do this book justice.  This book was so much better than I thought. It had it all.  Soul mates, intriguing supernatural elements, action, and suspense.  I haven't heard much about this book so I didn't have high expectations, but I was pleasantly suprised.  Right from the beginning the book grabs you and pulls you in.  Alexis is in the dark for most of the book regarding why she is the "freak" that she is.  So you are reading quickly just to solve that mystery and then you are introduced to Tristen.  You have to keep reading to find out what his role will play in the story. Through it all the the suspense keeps you reading and you cannot put the book down. In fact, I barely did. I started reading this on a Saturday night and  at 2:30 on Sunday afternoon I was looking for the next book in the series. 

Tristan and Alexis have such a powerful love that you get wrapped into it and try to get one step ahead of them to figure out what might happen next for them.  You just always feel like something is just lurking around the corner (which is kind of was). Most of the things, I just never saw them coming.  The end of the book...I PROMISE not to give anything away, but let me just say HEART WRENCHING!  I NEED the next book right away.

I cannot forget to mention that I thought this was a young adult book (which is fine, I love YA too), but was pleasantly surprised that this was more of a college age - adult book.  It had more adult themes in the bedroom. :) That was a nice change from the constant fade to black that you get accustomed to in YA novels.

Delirium by Lauren Oliver

Good Reads Description:

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

Thoughts...

This book was brilliant. I have caught onto the hype that is the dystopian novel. I have read two wonderful dystopian series to date (Hunger Games and Divergent). That caused me to be a bit skeptical about this book. When you have read what you thought is the best out there, how is something else even going to compare? While this wasn’t as good as Hunger Games or Divergent, this book was still great. I would rate it at 4 stars which I am stingy with my stars (lol).

Seriously, the whole idea of this book is mind blowing. First off, I think this book appeals to a reader who enjoys analyzing things. The idea that a government would “cure” love is blasphemous. But yet, if you really think about it, it would solve so much. Love and Hate are two sides of the same coin. As much as they are two radical extremes, they are also only a shred of difference between the two. You have to love something so much to end up hating anything else in return. Without love (and in return hate), there would be no violence because you can’t contain the emotion to care enough about anything to act out. You would constantly have a feeling of contentment because there is no other way. Now, do not think I am in any way in favor of eradicating the disease that is love (even if it were possible). I am just saying that I can see the reasoning behind a government wanting to eradicate the emotion.

I often put the book down to just sit and think about what I actually just read. The government gave many reasons as to why love was a horrible disease, but yet you can figure out the meaning behind it. Once you have the procedure and are cured, you are a drone. You are just a robot that follows the governments plan for you. They tell you who to marry, what job you will have, and even how many children you must have. You are always just content. Content is good, but imagine never experiencing any heightened emotion; Never being euphoric with excitement or depressed with grieving. Nothing.

I could go on and on about the meaning behind this book, but I will stop here. I found this plot original in the sense that I have never heard of a dystopian novel controlling emotions to get the result that they want. I have heard of many ways to control the population, but this was new to me. It contains great characters that are easy to like. The love story is sweet and almost sappy at times. You are fighting right along with Lena and Alex, just hoping that there is a way for them to be together. But, let me just say, the ENDING. OMG. I NEED THE NEXT BOOK LIKE RIGHT AWAY. I can’t believe that Lauren Oliver would do this to us. I will admit to shedding a few tears and having chills at the end.

"I run for I don't know how long. Hours, maybe, or days. Alex told me to run. So I run. You have to understand. I am no one special. I am just a single girl. I am five feet two inches tall and I am in-between in every way. But I have a secret. You can build walls all the way to the sky and I will find a way to fly above them. You can try to pin me down with a hundred thousand arms, but I will find a way to resist. And there are many of us out there, more than you think. People who refuse to stop believing. People who refuse to come to earth. People who love in a world without walls, people who love into hate, into refusal, against hope,and without fear. I love you. Remember. They cannot take it."

Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles

Good Reads Description:

When Brittany Ellis walks into chemistry class on the first day of senior year, she has no clue that her carefully created “perfect” life is about to unravel before her eyes. She’s forced to be lab partners with Alex Fuentes, a gang member from the other side of town, and he is about to threaten everything she's worked so hard for—her flawless reputation, her relationship with her boyfriend, and the secret that her home life is anything but perfect. Alex is a bad boy and he knows it. So when he makes a bet with his friends to lure Brittany into his life, he thinks nothing of it. But soon Alex realizes Brittany is a real person with real problems, and suddenly the bet he made in arrogance turns into something much more. In a passionate story about looking beneath the surface, Simone Elkeles breaks through the stereotypes and barriers that threaten to keep Brittany and Alex apart.

A Favorite Quote (Of Many):
"You are the one girl that made me risk everything for a future worth having."

Thoughts...

Wow, just wow! I absolutely love it when I am surprised by how good a book actually is.  It really makes my day.  I didn't have super high expectations for this book even though I read a lot of reviews that said it was wonderful.  I figured that it would be a good, but ordinary teen romance novel. If you have read any of my previous reviews then you know that I tend to stick toward the supernatural side of things so this was stretching for me. Hah. I was totally immersed in this book. Sure, on the outside it might seem like any other teen book but it is so MUCH more. That leads to my next topic...

My absolute favorite thing about this book is the fact that the author does not shy away from sensitive subjects. She plows straight through the good, bad, and ugly. I do not claim to have any knowledge of gang life, cerebral palsy, or many of the topics that are discussed in this book, but I can appreciate that the author seems to provide a very realistic experience throughout the book and at times that can be disturbing.  Gang life in general seems pretty hard core and dangerous. We get to experience that first hand from Alex's point of view. And you get a first hand lesson that everything is not always as it appears. Especially for Brittany...her mother is the picture perfect mother to the outside. But within their four walls, she is a mess. Brittany tries to put on the front that she a perfect princess to hide the fact that her life is unraveling at home.

Ekleles didn't give the characters, Alex and Brittany, the easy way out either. They are faced with so many difficulties throughout the series and they have to work for their relationship. I like that in a book. Everyone loves a happily ever after, but I like mine realistic.  I don't want it to just magically fall into place because life isn't normally like that.

So....go and buy this book. It is a great story.  Definitely worth the time and money!!!

**While this is a teen book, I do want to point out that this is for a more mature teen (and of course older since I am 20 something). I don't want to pin point an age, but it does discuss mature things such as sex and violence; also includes foul language.  I don't want anyone to think this takes away from the book because it is all absolutely necessary to provide a realistic story line.

City of Fallen Angels by Cassandra Clare

Good Reads Description:

City of Fallen Angels takes place two months after the events of City of Glass. In it, a mysterious someone’s killing the Shadowhunters who used to be in Valentine’s Circle and displaying their bodies around New York City in a manner designed to provoke hostility between Downworlders and Shadowhunters, leaving tensions running high in the city and disrupting Clary’s plan to lead as normal a life as she can — training to be a Shadowhunter, and pursuing her relationship with Jace. As Jace and Clary delve into the issue of the murdered Shadowhunters, they discover a mystery that has deeply personal consequences for them — consequences that may strengthen their relationship, or rip it apart forever.

Meanwhile, internecine warfare among vampires is tearing the Downworld community apart, and only Simon — the Daylighter who everyone wants on their side — can decide the outcome; too bad he wants nothing to do with Downworld politics. Love, blood, betrayal and revenge: the stakes are higher than ever in City of Fallen Angels.

Thoughts...

OMG. I just finished City of Fallen Angels about 35 seconds ago.  It was fantastic! I mentioned in my review of the last book in the series, City of Glass, that I was a bit skeptical about continuing the series after the first trilogy.  My worries were NOT warranted.  Wonderful!

At first, I wasn't too sure if I was going to enjoy this book. Simon has a much bigger role in the book than in the previous three. And I like Simon and all, but I didn't have a huge attachment to him and wasn't interested...AT FIRST.  After probably the first chapter, I was hooked again. Oh Simon, the trouble that you find.... I couldn't have expected any of it. Very entertaining.  Come on, Maia and Isabelle? Lillith and Camille? The list goes on....

This book did take a different turn that was expected though. I think I was naive enough to think it would hearts and roses for Clary and Jace. Hah, WRONG!  Easy must be boring...and this book is NEVER boring.  Their drama kept me on the edge of my seat.  I wanted to SLAP Jace several times.  Has he never heard of the word communication? Some things would be resolved so much easier if he would just talk to Clary and let her in on what he is dealing with. And then when it finally does come, ah, sweet relief...except NO...chaos ensues.

Oh, the ending, WTF! I didn't see that coming (this is becoming a trend in these books!). "We are one now." ????  Please tell me that it isn't true. PLEASE! This could be bad or this could be horrible! I need to know which like now, but I have to wait until we are gifted with the fifth book to the series, City of Lost Souls. Which by the way, has a somewhat foreboding title considering the ending of this book. Oh No, I can't wait until May 2012!

So, what do you think? Have you read it yet? If not, definitely add this to you to-read shelf over at Good Reads.

City of Glass by Cassandra Clare

Good Reads Description:

To save her mother's life, Clary must travel to the City of Glass, the ancestral home of the Shadowhunters -- never mind that entering the city without permission is against the Law, and breaking the Law could mean death. To make things worse, she learns that Jace does not want her there, and Simon has been thrown in prison by the Shadowhunters, who are deeply suspicious of a vampire who can withstand sunlight.

As Clary uncovers more about her family's past, she finds an ally in mysterious Shadow-hunter Sebastian. With Valentine mustering the full force of his power to destroy all Shadow-hunters forever, their only chance to defeat him is to fight alongside their eternal enemies. But can Downworlders and Shadowhunters put aside their hatred to work together? While Jace realizes exactly how much he's willing to risk for Clary, can she harness her new found powers to help save the Glass City -- whatever the cost?

Love is a mortal sin and the secrets of the past prove deadly as Clary and Jace face down Valentine in the final installment of the New York Times bestselling trilogy The Mortal Instruments

Thoughts...

So, I just finished City of Glass…this one only took me a little longer than the others because of real life. I do have a normal full time job (booo). However, this one was just as good as the first two books were.  LOVE IT. 

All of the loose ends were tied up and I feel like we got our happily ever after in this book. This book kept me on my toes!  I had an idea of what would happen, but I had NO idea on how it was going to happen. There were some great plot twists (Sebastian!!!). I found myself crying, laughing, and gasping in several parts of the books. It honestly made me laugh at myself when I realized I had a huge tear running down my check.  I was totally immersed in this book.  I can’t say enough wonderful things about it.  Just go out and pick up this series, it is definitely worth it!

Now, I am a little bit concerned with the fact that there is a fourth book (and soon to be fifth and sixth). Don’t get me wrong, I am starting the fourth book, City of Fallen Angels, this afternoon. But, the ending to this trilogy was perfect. Just perfect! I can’t think of anything that I would have liked to happen any differently. So now we are continuing the story and I just don’t want to ruin a good thing.  But, I must have faith in the author, Cassandra Clare. She wrote a wonderful series so far so I will keep on going. Can’t wait to read the next one….

City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare

Good Reads Description

As readers of series starter City of Bones already know, teenager Clary Fray is a Shadowhunter, a demon slayer who has the gift (?) of spotting Downworlder werewolves, vampires, and faeries. She is also an adolescent in an abnormally dysfunctional family: Her mom is in a magically induced coma and her father is probably insane and undoubtedly evil. All of which places Clary in situations that would challenge even the most talented average American girl.

Thoughts...

Well. I am writing this review less than 12 hours after I finished the first book in the series. SO...that should tell you something. No headaches after this one. For some reason, this one was easier for me to follow. I didn't feel like there was just too much being thrown at me as much; maybe I am just used to the writing style now. Whatever the case, I loved this book as well. 

As with the last, this book is packed with suspense. I never knew what was going to happen next. Many times, I was gasping because I never imagined that what happened, actually happened!  Another thing that adds to the suspense is the points of view. You are constantly bounced around. It actually pissed me off several times (lol). We get to an angsty part with Clary and dot dot dot. We are now following Jace and then dot dot dot. You get the picture.. We were left hanging constantly.

This is so hard for me to review without giving any spoilers because the second book is just building off of the first. There is still a love story present even if it isn't the love story that you wish it could be.  There is tons of action and suspense. I definitely recommend this book as well. I do dare say that I liked this one better than the first. Like I said, it seemed SO much EASIER for me to get into this one because the foundation was already provided.  I am definitley hooked...I can't write any more now. I am starting the 3rd book NOW! :o)

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

Good Reads Description:

When fifteen-year-old Clary Fray heads out to the Pandemonium Club in New York City, she hardly expects to witness a murder - much less a murder committed by three teenagers covered with strange tattoos and brandishing bizarre weapons. Then the body disappears into thin air. It's hard to call the police when the murderers are invisible to everyone else and when there is nothing - not even a smear of blood - to show that a boy has died. Or was he a boy?

This is Clary's first meeting with the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the earth of demons. It's also her first encounter with Jace, a Shadowhunter who looks a little like an angel and acts a lot like a jerk. Within twenty-four hours Clary is pulled into Jace's world with a vengeance, when her mother disappears and Clary herself is attacked by a demon. But why would demons be interested in ordinary mundanes like Clary and her mother? And how did Clary suddenly get the Sight? The Shadowhunters would like to know....

Exotic and gritty, exhilarating and utterly gripping, Cassandra Clare's ferociously entertaining fantasy takes readers on a wild ride that they will never want to end.

Thoughts?

OK, I have not planned this review out or even really had time to let everything sink in as I have literally finished this book 4 minutes ago. I just felt that I needed to review this book RIGHT NOW because I have so many things swirling around in my head.

This book honestly gave me a headache! No kidding, as I sit hear typing I have a massive headache! I really did like this book though. It felt like it took a bit for me to really get it to it, but once I did, I didn't put it down. The beginning was a bit slow for me and at times, I thought "this it it, this is where it is going to get good", but then the plot would slow down again. It definitely kept me guessing, but it did finally pick up, hence the headache.

So much happens that when I look back on the book it seems like ages ago that the beginning events even occurred to Clary. Sometimes, things felt a little too rushed. We were introduced to SO many creatures that I still can't wrap my head around it.  This book is filled with angst.  Towards the end of the book, I couldn't put the book down and could NOT believe what I was reading. I won't go into detail on that because it is a major spoiler, but I still don't want to believe it.  I am hoping that it will be proven otherwise in the next book because it is just plain wrong! (If you have read this book, you know exactly what I am referring to right now. And if that is the case, let's talk because I have all sorts of feelings on this subject! It's just wrong, I say!)

All in all, I recommend this book. It has a fresh plot, great characters, and an interesting love story (?). Put it this way, I just finished it and I already have the 2nd book in the series loading onto my reader!

Enjoy!

**To those who have read, seriously, what did you think about the CRAZY plot twist she through in at the end?**

Nightshade by Andrea Cremer

Nightshade by Andrea Cremer

Good Reads Description:
Calla Tor has always known her destiny: After graduating from the Mountain School, she'll be the mate of alpha wolf Ren Laroche and fight with him, side by side, ruling their pack and guarding sacred sites for the Keepers.

But when she violates her masters' laws by saving a beautiful human boy out for a hike, Calla begins to question her fate, her existence, and the very essence of the world she has known. By following her heart, she might lose everything— including her own life. Is forbidden love worth the ultimate sacrifice?


A Few Memorable Quotes:

"Calla", Shay called from the hall. "Without your nakedness to distract me, I'm rembering we're in serious trouble."

"This is where you belong, Calla.” He pulled me closer, tilting my chin up. “Be with me. Tell me it’s what you want.”
I couldn’t tear my eyes from his. “What I want?”
“Yes. Anything, everything you need, I’ll give you. Always. I promise. Just tell me one thing.”
“What?”
“That you want this, us.” His voice dropped so low I could barely hear him. “That someday you’ll love me.”
My hands began to tremble where they rested around his neck. “Ren, you know we’re going to be together. We’ve both known that for a long time.”
He gave me a hard look. “That’s not what I’m talking about.”
“Why are you asking me this?” I tried to pull back, but he held me against him.
The glimmer of a smile appeared on his lips. “Why not?”
My temper flared. “Are you trying to say that you love me?”
I meant it as a challenge rather than a serious question, but his eyes seemed to catch fire.
“What do you think?” He touched his lips to mine, softly at first, gradually building pressure, parting them."

My Thoughts…

Well, you might be able to tell from my previous book review, but I am more of a fan of vampires (TEAM EDWARD!). So, I had my reservations about reading my first werewolf book.  How can running around as a dog, eating animals, and scratching be perceived as alluring and sexy the way vampires are?  Well, this changed my mind completely.  I have actually read another book about werewolves since this book (review on that one later). I still haven’t changed my mind that being an actual wolf would suck (like big time), but I was captivated by the life they lead while they are human.

Nightshade was set at a consistent pace for me.  I wasn’t overly “in love” with this book, but it kept my attention while sitting down to read. I never felt like “OMG, I can’t put this book down!”, but it was interesting enough to make we want to pick the book back up each night.

Calla is a werewolf often referred to as a guardian. She is the female “alpha-to-be” from her pack, the Nightshades, and will soon marry Ren (also alpha-to-be) from the Bane pack.  This isn’t the typical marriage one would imagine either.  The Keeper’s arranged this marriage since they both were born. They both look at it as an agreement that they must get along and run the pack together after the marriage is official. But as we know, things never run as smoothly as planned. Calla meets a human boy, Shay, and everything spirals out of Calla’s control from their…

I don’t want to give too much away in this review, but I do want to discuss the love triangle presented in Nightshade. I am not normally swayed. Once I pick a “side”, I don’t waver. More times than not, I choose the “good guy”. That’s just me and my wholesome personality (lol). However, I am torn with this book. Calla has great chemistry with both of the characters, Shay and Ren.   Calla and Shay’s relationship is a little sweeter, and the bond between them is undeniable as neither can stay away from the other. Calla and Ren’s relationship is nothing but INTENSE. Whoa! Calla and Ren are both strong-willed and often they butt heads.  There is no trust between the two, but the physical attraction between the two is hard to ignore. Here in lies my problem: Shay is the good guy and Ren is the bad boy.  I want to want her to be with Shay, but who do you think I am rooting for? REN!! This is all I will say on this. I don’t want to spoil the love story for you.

Overall, I was not blown away by this book, but it was a good read. Even though I said that the book had consistent pacing, the very end of the book did pick up speed and then does leave you hanging just a bit.  The next book in the series, Wolfsbane, comes out this summer. It is definitely on my to-be-read bookshelf over at Goodreads. I need to figure out what happens with my boys, Shay and Ren!

If you are into reading supernatural romance (this is YA so don’t expect too much ROMANCE, if you know what I mean), I think it would be worth your time.

-Izzy

Spellbound by Cara Lynn Shultz

Good Reads Description
What's a girl to do when meeting The One means she's cursed to die a horrible death?
Life hasn't been easy on sixteen-year-old Emma Conner, so a new start in New York may be just the change she needs. But the posh Upper East Side prep school she has to attend? Not so much. Friendly faces are few and far between, except for one that she's irresistibly drawn to—Brendan Salinger, the guy with the rock-star good looks and the richest kid in school, who might just be her very own white knight.
But even when Brendan inexplicably turns cold, Emma can't stop staring. Ever since she laid eyes on him, strange things have been happening. Streetlamps go out wherever she walks, and Emma's been having the oddest dreams: visions of herself in past lives—visions that warn her to stay away from Brendan. Or else.


Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Expected Publication Date - June 28th, 2011


Favorite Quotes:
"I longed to know what it felt like to have one person eclipse everything bad in your life - be a place of pure joy."


"High School girls are demons, seriously."


Thoughts, Rants, and Raves


I was fortunate enough to be provided with an ARC of this book from Harlequin Teen through NetGalley.

From the very first page, I knew the author had a good understanding of teenagers. It hasn't been that long that I don't remember what it was like to be a teenager. If you remember it at all, you will know that Schultz gets them.  She utilizes common teenage "slang", describes their dramatic reactions with flare, and provides a proper high school hierarchy since every school has one.

 I thoroughly enjoyed Schultz' character descriptions. She seemed to represent at least one member from each "social class" in high school. Emma is sometimes a dark and angsty girl from a nowhere town in Pennsylvania. She just wants to be anonymous in her new school. One thing I liked about her character, even though Emma has been through a lot more than any normal teenager, she isn't portrayed as trying to be an adult. She acts her age, is self-conscious, and boy crazy (well, one-boy crazy). We are introduced to Ashley, Emma's cousin; she is young and a bit naive. She aspires to be popular, but has a pure heart. Anthony represents the typical arrogant jock in high school. It isn't until later that we learn how dark twisted, and evil that he is.  Cisco is a great ally for Emma. He is candid, humorous, and witty. Angelique is what most teens in school would refer to as a "freak". She has black hair with blond roots and fuscia tips. She is the exact opposite of everyone else in this upper east side prep school. She proves to be a very loyal friend to Emma. We cannot forget Brendan. He is Mr. Tall, Dark, and Handsome. Oh, and also mysterious. 

The first half of the book is like a slow burn. We get introduced to many characters, drama starts to unfold, but you just know something more is coming.  All of the early interactions between Brendan and Emma are very intriguing. You can feel that they are instantly drawn to one another, but Brendan often plays hot and cold with Emma.  After you hit the half way mark, the book really picks up pace and is packed with suspense.

Overall, this is a beautiful forbidden love story packed with suspense with a dash of witchcraft.  Think Gossip Girl with a supernatural twist.

** A bonus ** The very end of the book includes Brendan and Emma's iPod play lists.  As a music lover, I appreciated this extra touch.

Divergent By Veronica Roth

Divergent by Veronica Roth

Category: MUST READ


Good Reads Book Description:


In Beatrice Prior's dystopian Chicago, society is divided into five factions, each dedicated to the cultivation of a particular virtue—Candor (the honest), Abnegation (the selfless), Dauntless (the brave), Amity (the peaceful), and Erudite (the intelligent). On an appointed day of every year, all sixteen-year-olds must select the faction to which they will devote the rest of their lives. For Beatrice, the decision is between staying with her family and being who she really is—she can't have both. So she makes a choice that surprises everyone, including herself.

During the highly competitive initiation that follows, Beatrice renames herself Tris and struggles to determine who her friends really are—and where, exactly, a romance with a sometimes fascinating, sometimes infuriating boy fits into the life she's chosen. But Tris also has a secret, one she's kept hidden from everyone because she's been warned it can mean death. And as she discovers a growing conflict that threatens to unravel her seemingly perfect society, she also learns that her secret might help her save those she loves . . . or it might destroy her.


One of My Favority Quotes:


"I might be in love with you." He smiles a little. "I'm waiting until I'm sure to tell you, though."
"That's sensible of you," I say, smiling too. "We should find some paper so you can make a list or a chart of something."
I feel his laughter against my side, his nose sliding along my jaw, his lips pressing behind my ear.
"Maybe I'm already sure," he says, "and I just don't want to frighten you."
I laugh a little. "Then you should know better."
"Fine", he says, "Then I love you."



On to the Review:

This book owned my life for 24 hours.  I started reading Friday night at 9:38 pm and finished the book Saturday at 11:38 pm. I didn’t even realize that I was on the last page until I couldn’t turn the page anymore. 

 I get tired of using the words great, fantastic, and amazing, but this book was all of those words and more.  I haven’t pinpointed the exact reason that I love this book, but it has a great mix of suspense, action, and romance.  I was hooked from the first page.  I honestly enjoyed the entire book. I never once felt like a part of the book was dragging or wasn’t interesting

I really enjoyed the author’s writing style. Normally, it takes me just a bit to get used to the style when starting a new book. This was not the case with Divergent.  I fell right in step with Veronica Roth from the first page. She did a wonderful job at creating an image in your mind without overloading you with excessive details.   I knew that if something was described or even mentioned in Divergent, that I needed to remember it because it was coming back up soon.

Something I found interesting was the character descriptions between Four and Tris.  I feel like I got a pretty clear picture in my mind of Four. (See below). However, I never could picture Tris. No matter what, I couldn't conjure up an image of her in my mind. This wasn't due to my lack of imagination or any fault of Veronica Roth's. My theory is that is that way it was supossed to be.  Tris comes from an abnegation background (selfless) so she has been trained to never focus on herself. Since the book is from her point of view, we never get the details that you normally would from a character.  For instance, the character in another book might describe their hair, face, and clothes before leaving for work or when they look in the mirror. We never got that with Tris other than her stating she had plain blonde hair. Just a random thought I had...I actually thought it was quite clever of the author in keeping true to Tris' character.

This is who I had in mind for Four (Tobias). Thoughts?

This was a unique YA love story.  There was not an overwhelming passionate love affair between Tris and Four.  The love story develops along with the plot. We never lost focus of the main story line. The love story stayed true to their characters as well. Four is a quiet, reserved, but fiery instructor. Four didn’t become all clingy and girly when he realized he was attracted to her. He never once babied her because she was small, weak, or female. He pushes her to be stronger, mentally and physically.

"You think my first instinct is to protect you. Because you're small, or a girl, or a Stiff. But you're wrong."
He leans his face close to mine and wraps his fingers around my chin. His hand smells like metal. When was the last time he held a gun, or a knife? My skin tingles at the point of contact, like he's transmitting electricity through his skin.
"My first instinct is to push you until you break, just to see how hard I have to press." he says, his fingers squeezing at the word break. My body tenses at the edge in his voice, so I am coiled as tight as a spring, and I forget to breathe.
HIs dark eyes lifting to mine, he adds, "But I resist it."
"Why..." I swallow hard. "Why is that your first instinct?"
"Fear doesn't shut you down; it wakes you up. I've seen it. It's fascinating." He releases me but doesn't pull away, his hand grazing my jaw, my neck. "Sometimes I just want to see it again. Want to see you awake."

I was hesitant when beginning the book because of the hype surrounding this book.  I didn’t want to be let down. I just recently read The Hunger Games which many people compared this book to. The comparison begins and ends with the dystopian setting.  That is all.  I LOVED The Hunger Games. It was so creative and at times just insane (the books caused stress in my life while reading, lol)  However, Veronica Roth does a great job at creating a series set in dystopian Chicago where every citizen at 16 chooses a faction (what I compare to a district). The purpose is to devote your life to a positive quality: honesty, intelligence, selflessness, bravery, and peacefulness. Well, things don’t always work out the way they are planned. Ultimately, some people are just downright evil. Shit hits the fan from here…

I could say so much more about this book, but I won't. Just go read it! I definitely recommend this book after reading Twilight, The Hunger Games, or any book for that matter.  This is an amazing debut novel from Veronia Roth.  I can’t wait for the next book in the series to be released.

Exciting Note - I just heard that Summit Entertainment obtained the rights to Divergent and they have hired a screenwriter to adapt this novel to a movie! Woo Hoo! Can't wait!!!

Another Exciting Note - Just like 30 seconds I saw the 2nd installment in this series is entitled Insurgent!

A Discovery of Witches

A Discovery of Witches 

by: Deborah Harkness

Good Reads Book Description

Deep in the stacks of Oxford's Bodleian Library, young scholar Diana Bishop unwittingly calls up a bewitched alchemical manuscript in the course of her research. Descended from an old and distinguished line of witches, Diana wants nothing to do with sorcery; so after a furtive glance and a few notes, she banishes the book to the stacks. But her discovery sets a fantastical underworld stirring, and a horde of daemons, witches, and vampires soon descends upon the library. Diana has stumbled upon a coveted treasure lost for centuries-and she is the only creature who can break its spell. 

First things first, Ian Somerhalder reminds us of Matthew, dark and brooding.  Dangerous and alluring. (*I know, I know, he's already Damon - but hey - this is who I pictured, what can I say, he's a perfect vamp.*)

Couldn't you imagine a make-out session next to the apple tree with THIS!

In case anyone wondered what was underneath that.

We read this book kind-of at the same time so we could discuss; therefore, this post will be both of our ramblings on DOW. Here. We. Go!


Our thoughts? We got lots of them.  This was a very interesting read. Deborah did her research before writing this book.  We learn A LOT about things that we never thought we wanted or needed to do.  We now have knowledge of D.N.A., Alchemy, poets, playwrights, wars, the list goes on.  I didn't fact check her, but I am taking the history/medical knowledge in this book like it is a text book because she couldn't have possibly made this shit up, right?

Anywho....Neither of us had ever read a book about witches before.  Witches have made appearances in books that we have read, but we have never had the opportunity to delve in to the world of witchery.  Let's just say...Witches are bad ass.  They can do just about anything; witch-fire, witch-water, witch-wind, time-walk, read minds, the opportunities are endless (well, at least Diana's are). 

We both enjoyed the "mush" we experienced with this book...several different elements from other semi-similar books smashed together (Twilight, Outlander, Vampire Diaries and a little True Blood). We are *VERY* much eagerly anticipating the next installment of Discovery of Witches. If you enjoy Diana Gabaldon's writing style and reading about history, I would really recommend adding this to your book list. If you don't like the "vampire-book-thing", I would say skip this one. Lets face it, if you can't get past a guy wanting a girl AND her blood, you will probably will not enjoy a story focused on VAMPIRES, witches and daemons. 


The romance involved in this story is not over-kill, it instead is the glue that holds the story lines together. With so much inner turmoil with the main character, external conflicts, family issues, why not add romance to the mix. One may think this seems like a lot in one book - and you're right - but it is written in such a way that it all just fits together perfectly. You know a book is good when you go to bed thinking so much about it.

(P.S. Izzy: If Diana complains about her clothes (black trousers and a plain colored shirt), then why doesn't she just pop new clothes in her closet? I mean, hasn't she heard of Sabrina the Teenage Witch, duh?!? lol)

 Matthew, Matthew, Matthew...

*************PLEASE BEWARE LOTS OF SPOILERS BELOW***********

IM's relating to A Discovery of Witches: 

Sassy - 5/24/11 - 12:09am     =     It's 12 o'clock and I'm just finishing chapter 17! It's officially ON! I'm now losing  sleep b/c I neeeeeed to know what is happening next. Lucky for u I have to wk tomorrow & need to go to the gym during lunch, so I won't get much reading done.

I can't wait to discuss!

Izzy - 5/24/11 - 7:24am     =     Lol I read just a couple pages. I had every intention of reading last night but Nicole called and we ended up talking until 11:00. That's past my bedtime so no more reading was done! Maybe today on lunch I will read though.

Izzy - 5/25/11 - 12:59pm     =     Just starting chapter 8!

Izzy - 5/26/11 - 7:44pm     =      They are having lots of wine with dinner! Is this about to get exciting? Lol

Izzy - 5/26/11 - 9:41pm     =     Starting chapter 16 tomorrow. Am I almost caught up to you yet?

Sassy - 5/27/11 - 6:21am    =     Yes! I think I'm on 19

Izzy - 5/27/11 - 4:53pm     =     Got a bottle of Moscato to start the weekend off right

Sassy - 5/29/11 - 11:05am      =     Did u read? Need to ck your chapter... To see whether I can read yet or not. -lol   (**Wow - I'm a book bully - lol**)

Izzy - 5/29/11 - 1:08pm     =     I read some not much though. I think I am on chapter 20. They went horse back riding.

Izzy - 5/29/11 - 4:23pm     =     Starting chapter 22 now. Reading on my phone makes me so sleepy! 

Izzy - 5/30/11 - 12:56am     =     Starting chapter 27. What chapter are you on?

Sassy - 5/30/11 - 10:29am     =     Ooooh! I'm only starting 25 :) wooooohooooo!

Sassy - 5/30/11 - 1:28pm     =     So when he came home....They totally had a makeout session and full on grope-fest right next to his car?! Buddy's grabbing her boob when his mom walks out? Nonetheless, now they're sleeping in the same bed!

Izzy - 5/30/11 - 2:31pm     =     Lol. they get you worked up just to be blocked!

Sassy - 5/30/11 - 2:41pm     =     Holy freakin cow! Boyfriend just barged in holding a towel! Things are getting more interesting.   (**Or so I thought)

Sassy - 5/30/11 - 2:44pm     =     And now naked!   (**girlfriend just didn't know this was AAALLLLL the action she was going to be getting for awhile**)

Izzy - 5/30/11 - 3:23pm     =     You are pretty much caught up with me then!!

Izzy - 5/30/11 - 4:29pm     =     What chapter are you on?

Sassy - 5/30/11 - 5:37pm     =     Just about to start 29. She was just kidnapped I think!

Izzy - 5/30/11 - 6:13pm     =     I am right ahead of you. Craziness!

Sassy - 5/30/11 - 6:16pm     =     I just finished 29 she's trapped in some hole and doesn't know how to fly out

Sassy 5/30/11 - 6:18pm     =     Matthew is going to be so pissed! She promised not to leave, and then she goes gallivanting out after all sorts of fondling fun the night before! She's in heaps of trouble!  (**bahhhh-haaaaaa - we were wrong, again**)

Izzy - 5/30/11 - 7:10pm     =     I thought so too

Izzy - 5/31/11 - 9:04pm     =     We need to talk ASAP! craziness!

Sassy - 5/31/11 - 9:22pm     =     Book?

Sassy - 5/31/11 - 10:28pm     =     Hold on! The tea is a contraceptive!? There's gotta be something to THAT!

Izzy - 6/1/11 - 9:33pm     =     This is going to be a big cliff hanger. I just know it! Only 15 pages left and so much to do!

Sassy - 6/1/11 - 9:45pm     =     Okay I met Juliette! She just kissed Diana?! WTF? She is crazy!

Izzy - 6/1/11 - 10:11pm     =     Now what?

Sassy - 6/1/11 - 10:18pm     =     She's giving him blood b/c the bitch almost killed him! Holy freakin cow!

Izzy - 6/1/11 - 10:18pm     =     Intense, huh? I just finished!

Sassy - 6/1/11 - 10:21pm     =     Yes! They r trying to keep her alive now since Matthew drank so much

Sassy - 6/1/11 - 10:34pm     =     Just jotting...Deal made?   (**this helps me not forget important things that need to be discussed in actual phone conversation - sorry, most of these will make absolutely no sense whatsoever.**)

Izzy - 6/2/11 - 9:54pm     =     Reading?

Sassy - 6/2/11 - 10:08pm     =     Just got home :( bout to start though.

Izzy - 6/2/11 - 10:08pm     =     Late start!!

Sassy - 6/3/11 - 7:12am     =     10 pages left!

Izzy - 6/3/11 - 7:32am     =     You will be done today!!!

Sassy - 6/3/11 - 5:56pm     =     WTF - Again no consummation!    Matthew in love w/a man?!

Sassy - 6/3/11 - 5:56pm     =     Nevermind

Sassy - 6/3/11 - 5:59pm     =     Playhouses?

Sassy - 6/3/11 - 6:23pm     =     WTF! I'm done but WTF!

Sassy - 6/3/11 - 6:27pm     =     I'm still confused.

Izzy - 6/3/11 - 7:16pm     =     Call me!

We love us some Matthew, but a few things need to be said here. WFT!?!? NO SEX.  Normally, this is not a big deal. We aren't crazy pervs that demand sex in every book we read, but can we say COCK BLOCK? (Can we say that word on here? I guess so, since it's our blog, lol) But seriously people, Deborah got us worked up SEVERAL times in the book (didn't EVERYone think when the entire fam left the house and they were completely alone THAT would be the time???)  and they never consummated their relationship! I (Sassy) had a very hard time with this aspect of the book when all was said and done. But...how can Harkness tell us that Diana 'used' men in the past for her personal 'needs' (never mind she's in her mid 30's), and then you go below the border with your HOT boyfriend/husband but decide you're not going to press the issue of sex? BABE - I think a serious convo would have taken place - BEFORE they traveled hundreds of years in the past. Can we say anti-climatic - LITERALLY!

I must say there were quite a few scenes that we just LOVED imagining while reading. All that talk of wine tasting really had me wishing I could taste caramel, berries, purple grapes, etc just by taking a sip of wine. (Matter of fact, we are planning on a wine tasting date very soon.) We also, quite enjoyed the descriptions of when Diana's magic went hay-wire...it was so exciting discovering (he-he) it  when Diana did too!

Another thought, during the the book Matthew mentions his rules about "not telling other people's tales" and it seems it is more of an almost 'don't ask, don't tell policy', it just SPELLS trouble! Don't you think?  Poor Diana! Shit keeps hitting the fan before she can even recover from the last episode because of Matthew's rather extensive past!

Overall, the books started off a little slow to us. There were lots of details that at times slowed the story line down, but after around chapter 16 (?) things definitely picked up speed. So many clever characters throughout - Marcus (Surfer-ish?), Marian (misunderstood?), Sarah (condescending Bitch!) - Nathaniel & Sophie (what the heck - you just came from no-where into our family?). Your mind can go anywhere with this story.

Nonetheless, the home stretch of the book, we couldn't even put it down. But, man, were we left hanging. BIG TIME! Nothing in the book really got resolved. Conflict after conflict, question after question, were presented, but none of it was answered. Call us OCD, but sometimes we like things to be tied up in a bow with a little resolution.  Resolution - we did not receive.  Definitely, looking forward to the next book.  We have lots of questions that need answers. We're hooked!

Favorite quotes from the book:

"Somewhere in the center of my soul, a rusty chain began to unwind. It freed itself, link by link, from where it had rested, unobserved, waiting for him. My hands, which had been balled up and pressed against his chest, unfurled with it. The chain continued to drop, to an unfathomable depth where there was nothing but darkness and Matthew. At last it snapped to its full length, anchoring me to a vampire. Despite the manuscript, despite the fact that my hands contained enough voltage to run a microwave, and despite the photograph, as long as I was connected to him, I was safe."

"Yes, I see that you are behaving like a prince but that doesn't mean you won't behave like a devil at the first opportunity."

"Are you smelling me?" After yesterday I suspected that my body was giving him all kinds of information I didn't want him to have.
"Don't tempt me," he murmured." 

"We kissed each other, long and deep, while my legs opened like the covers of a book." (Reader's note - This shit didn't get us anywhere...don't get your hopes up)