Review: Across the Universe by Beth Revis

AMY
has left the life she loves
for a world 300 years away.

Trapped in space and frozen in time, Amy is bound for a new planet. But fifty years before she's due to arrive, she is violently woken, the victim of an attempted murder. Now Amy's lost on board and nothing makes sense - she's never felt so alone. Yet someone is waiting for her.
He wants to protect her -
and more if she'll let him

But who can she trust amidst the secrets and lies?
A killer is out there - and Amy has nowhere to hide...


Wow how do I describe this book? Well it is one of the best books that I have EVER read, let alone one of the best of 2011!

I am in awe that Beth Revis had the imagination to create such an amazing idea and went even further and made it into an amazing story!

Im going to start with Amy. I am so glad that Beth Revis wrote Amy in a way that made her likeable and relatable. There is nothing I hate more that being able to relate to a character. Now I'm not saying that I have been frozen in time and trapped in space and that I have been awaken 50 years earlier because that would be a lie but I can relate to Amys feelings of alienation. I mean who hasn't felt alienated at one point during their life? I love how Amy has this little infatuation with running. It's nice to read about a character that loves something that isn't drawing or reading, there is so many books that feature characters that love to read and draw. I'm not saying that there is anything wrong with that. In point of fact I love characters like that but it was refreshing to read about a character that likes something different.

Elder. God how I love that name. I'll be honest and say that I did giggle at some of the names in this book but that doesn't mean I didn't like it! I love how he wants to help Amy, he wants to show her that she's not alone and that he's there for her. He was deffinately a character that I remembered way after I finished this book. (I finished it awhile ago but haven't gotten round to writing a review for it).

I particularly liked one of the non-main characters, if you read the book I'm sure you'll realise who it is. I can't say too much about him without spoiling it so I'm going to move swiftly along. P.S I love him.

I wouldn't say that I found this book predictable. I did find little parts predictable but when I thought I had figured something its almost as if the characters went 'hell no!' and did something unpredictable! I love that!

When I finished this book I wanted to read more! I finished and went 'NO! I need more!'. I cannot wait for the second book! Trust me I am counting down the days! I cannot wait to see what happens next to Amy and Elder!

Review: Forgotten by Cat Patrick

Summary from Goodreads:
Each night when 16 year-old London Lane goes to sleep, her whole world disappears. In the morning, all that's left is a note telling her about a day she can't remember. The whole scenario doesn't exactly make high school or dating that hot guy whose name she can't seem to recall any easier. But when London starts experiencing disturbing visions she can't make sense of, she realizes it's time to learn a little more about the past she keeps forgetting-before it destroys her future.


I picked this book up in the library a few days after it was released but I've only gotten round to writing a review for it now.

Okay, firstly, I don't like the main characters name. I don't know why but I don't like London Lane. But that did not stop be from enjoying the book.

For ages I have been waiting for a book like this. I've always wanted to read a book in which the main character can't remember what happened to her the day before. When I began the book I thought it would be like 50 first dates and I hate that film so I slowly started it. After a few chapters I realised that it wouldn't be like 50 first dates (thank god).

London is a strong character and I love how she looks out for her best friend, Jamie. She really made me think if I could be as strong and determined as she is when she can't remember what happened yesterday and she has to rely on notes to tell her, but sometimes the notes don't tell her everything. How would you cope with that? I hate not being able to remember things, it's really annoying, so how would I manage if I was London and I couldn't remember my past? London remembers her future but not her past, I would prefer to know my past rather than my future, it would be horrible. Plus she's in high school. She learns something one day and has to relearn it again. I think thats why I liked London so much, yes I don't like her name but I like her as a character. Infact she's one of my favourite characters from a book I think ever in all the books I've read.

Luke. How do I describe Luke? Well I like Luke, infact I could go as far as to say that I love Luke. He's one of the nicest male characters I've come across in a while! I love the first date between him and London. It's lovely! I want a guy like Luke. Where can I find one? When London had a little vision of the future with Luke and a certain incident happened I was rather upset! I was reading it and think 'no! That can't happen'.

Okay, now Jamie. I found Jamie slightly annoying. But it was only slightly annoying, I like her overall. She's a rebel and I like that!

I love the little twist involving Londons brother. Let's just say I wasn't expecting it! That's all I'm going to say! You have to read this book right now! You won't understand fully why I love this book so much until you read it for yourself!

Review- Dark Angel by Eden Maguire

Summary from Goodreads                                                      Tania's heart belongs to Orlando. Nothing can rip them apart. Until the seduction begins in a flurry of glamour and magic, music and parties all orchestrated by the mysterious and mesmerising Zoran, an iconic rock star who has retired to a remote ranch in the nearby mountains. And there Tania meets the dark side. Can she resist temptation?

　

Okay, I love Eden Maguire's writing style. She can create amazing worlds that keep you captivated throughout the entire book. I've read her last series of books and I loved them! For that reason I went into this book with larger than life expectations! And let me tell you it delivered!

Okay so where do I begin? I suppose at the beginning.

When I began I was immediately drawn in by the main character, Tania. There is something about her that just made me want to know what was going to happen to her. It's rather difficult to explain. She's strong, I think thats why I like her so much. I really hate reading books that have weak female characters. Eventhough the book is from the point of view of Tania there is still a bit of mystery surrounding her. She has a larger than life 'imagination'. Her mother says its because she's creative.........you must read to find out. She's with Orlando but her entire world doesn't revolve around him (unlike a certain girl in a certain saga of books revolving around sparkly blood suckers).

I didn't like Orlando at certain times during the book. I did like him at times don't get me wrong but I thought that he was a bit self absorbed and annoying! He's meant to be in love with Tania but he gives up on their relationship so easily when he gets slightly annoyed!

I adored the mystery surrounding Zoran and co. It really kept me reading! I wanted to know what they were up to.

The writing in this book is really strong and descriptive. Descriptive writing is the best and helps to keep the story alive. I am so glad that the writing was strong because I hate reading books that have weak writing!

There was so many twists in this book! Who doesn't love a good twist. It kept me wondering what would happen next and I never guessed correctly.

The ending! Oh God the ending! I loved it! It left me wanting more right away, and I was wondering 'Will Zoran be back?' 'Will Tania and Orlando stay together?'.

If you read this book you will not be dissapointed! Go read it now!

Top 11 books of 2011

Okay, I hope you all had a good christmas! Originally it was meant to be 10 books but I couldn't pick so it is 11! They're in no particular order! I hope 2012 is as good for new releases as 2011!

                         Across the universe-Beth Revis       Abandon-Meg Cabot

 

   Blood on my hands-Todd Strasser                   Fury-Elizabeth Miles

   Dark Angel-Eden Maguire           Clockwork Prince-Cassandra Clare 

 

                        Firelight-Sophie Jordan                     Forgotten-Cat Patrick 

 Silence-Becca Fitzpatrick                       The Iron Witch-Karen Mahoney 

 

Darkness becomes her-Kelly Keaton

Author Interview: Kate Fuentes

This was meant to be posted earlier but my laptop broke.
Today I have Kate Fuentes author of Elements.

Hi there, please introduce yourself.
  My name is Kate Fuentes, author of the YA fantasy series ELEMENTS. I love spending time with my family, enjoying the outdoors, I adore shopping for shoes, I like sappy love stories, watching movies and I have a bit of a competitive streak!

When did you first realise that you wanted to write books?
I have always dabbled with literary story telling and often created short stories as a child. I was lucky enough to have been encouraged to use my imagination as much as possible and did so through writing, when I was not outdoors building forts and galavanting with imaginary friends. The first story I can remember writing was in second grade for a Halloween project about a scared ghost. I think my mother still has the project safely tucked away in her hope chest.

What inspired you to write your first book?
I am extremely proud to say my children are the reason I wrote my first novel. My eldest son had asked me to create a story for us to read at night before they went to sleep. My intention was to write a short story, but I let my imagination take over, as I often do, and 50,000 words later I had a novel. I wanted to demonstrate to my children to follow through with your aspirations, no matter how old or young someone might be, it's never too late to follow your dream.

Is there anything you find particularly challenging about writing a book?
Currently, my biggest challenge in writing a book is TIME. I normally write after 10pm until about 2am on weekdays and maybe get a few more hours on the weekends. I have two children who are full time students along with their extra curricular sports activities, not to mention the normal happenings of everyday family life plus the added bonus of working a full time job during the week. I'm so glad I have a naturally high energy level, can you imagine if I actually drank coffee? That might be a bit too scary for my family to tolerate!

Is there any new authors that have caught your attention? If so, why?
 I have met several authors through my social media connections, and have had the pleasure of reading some of their work.  Currently, my favorite new author is Raine Thomas, creator of the Daughters of Saraqael series. I enjoyed reading her books and I am looking forward to the follow up series coming in 2012.

How did you come up with the title for your book?
 ELEMENTS was a given for the title of my books because of my characters extraordinary elemental abilities of fire and water. I like books that have a main title followed by a subtitle. It makes it easier for the reader to track down the installments in a series. I'm all about comfort and ease!

Who is your favourite author and what really strikes you about there work?
 I don't have 'one' favorite author, but a lot of authors whose work I appreciate for different reasons. I am not one to stick to a specific genre. I like to bounce around depending on the mood I'm in. I do the same thing with music...depends on my mood. I like to read works by Cassandra Clare, Diana Gabaldon, Nicholas Sparks, Nora Roberts, Suzanne Collins, Stephenie Meyers as well as classics from Austen, Dumas, and anything Greek Mythology. I also enjoy reading poetry, but fiction is close to my heart and young adult is my passion!

What books have influenced you most?
Growing up in a household where your older sister is a bookworm had a huge influence on me. She is the one who introduced me to Greek Mythology and I was hooked right away. I was heavily involved in sports, but always found time to read Mythology. Eventually I gravitated to young adult and really never strayed too far from it, even though I have obviously expired the young adult age limit, if one exists.

What are you reading now?
I am currently reading the River of Time series by Lisa T Bergren. I'm on the last book, Torrent. I've really enjoyed the stories so far.

How long does it take you to write your book?
It seems to vary, but my first book took eight months to write. I wasn't planning on publishing, so it was put on the back burner quite often. The second book was written in two months. If I didn't have a full time job I think I would be able to construct a solid novel in two weeks time. I like to research thoroughly and tend to add tid-bits to each chapter after I have already passed them. It's a really bad habit, but it works for me. I will be starting my third book during the Christmas break and hope to get a great portion done. Wish me luck!

Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?
My only advice for aspiring writers is to always follow your heart and have faith in yourself, even if it feels as if no one else is on your side. Being a writer can be a lonely business and a tough market to break in to. Perseverance is the key! If you are determined to become an author, stick to your path and follow it regardless of the bumps in the road trying to detour you. Everyone has the right to be heard!

Finally, where can we find out more about you and your books?

 It's not uncommon for me to stay up late browsing my Twitter feed, Facebook page, blogging, or writing another installment to my series. I am generally available to chat with friends or fans and love meeting new people in the literary world. You can learn more about my ELEMENTS series at the following places.

http://www.katefuentes.com/
http://twitter.com/fuentes_kate1
http://www.facebook.com/elements.series
http://siredscribblings.blogspot.com/

A huge Thank You to Leona for taking the time to ask a few questions and a chance for people to get to know what makes me tick! My sincerest appreciation and gratitude goes out to you and all those who will read this interview! Best Wishes, Kate.

arc review-Fracture by Megan Miranda

Summary from Goodreads

Eleven minutes passed before Delaney Maxwell was pulled from the icy waters of a Maine lake by her best friend Decker Phillips. By then her heart had stopped beating. Her brain had stopped working. She was dead. And yet she somehow defied medical precedent to come back seemingly fine-despite the scans that showed significant brain damage. Everyone wants Delaney to be all right, but she knows she's far from normal. Pulled by strange sensations she can't control or explain, Delaney finds herself drawn to the dying. Is her altered brain now predicting death, or causing it?

Then Delaney meets Troy Varga, who recently emerged from a coma with similar abilities. At first she's reassured to find someone who understands the strangeness of her new existence, but Delaney soon discovers that Troy's motives aren't quite what she thought. Is their gift a miracle, a freak of nature-or something much more frightening?

I went into this book with high expectations and they were meet! Okay so, I really don't know what to say about this book except that it is AMAZING! I was so happy to win this book in a giveaway.

I started it and was immediatly drawn in, the opening line had me hooked immediately; The first time I died, I didn't see God. I mean how can you not be hooked after that opening line?

I adore Delaney and Deckers relationship. They've been best friends for ages: inseperable. However, after Delaney is pulled from the lake their relationship is strained. It's understanable of course. Whos relationship wouldn't be strained after you're best friend dies. Decker and Delaney have a complicated relationship.

I felt very sorry for Delanaey at times during the book. She survived under water for eleven minutes. You would think that people would be nice to her but some of them can't get over how much she has changed. I wish we could get a bit more of an insight into what she was like before the accident. There were parts that I could really feel Delaneys sadness and I felt the same as here. That's how you know if a book was well written or not.

Okay Troy. How do I describe Troy? I really don't know. The only concrete thing that I can say about Troy is that I didn't like him. But I suppose every book has at least one character you don't like. Its the whole point of writing a book. If you liked every character in the books it would be rather boring.

I was especially hooked the whole way through it to see if Delaney managed to stay alive , or if Troy managed to stay alive.

All in all when this book is released you MUST read it!

Author Interview: Keith Weaver

Today I have Keith Weaver, author of The Nefarious: Prince of shadow, and Nebulous.

Tell us a bit about yourself.
Thanks Leona.  My name is Keith, and obviously I like to read and write.  What most people probably don’t know about me, though, is that I love lots of things in life.  I’m a big sports fan, and play a lot of basketball and do MMA when I can to stay in shape.  I also love music and movies.  I often listen to music to unwind or even when I write.  I’m a big 80’s fan, and would love to give a shout out to one of my favorites, Deon Estus.
 
What inspired you to first start writing?

I loved books and reading growing up, it was one of my favorite things to do when not running around with friends or playing sports.  In college I started taking literature courses and fell in love with putting my own thoughts and ideas down on paper.  Becoming an author wasn’t really the plan at the time, but it gravitated to that.
 
Have you always wanted to be a writer?

At first probably not.  I liked the idea of writing just for me.  I’ve always found it fun to take odd things that I remember from a dream I had and put them down in a short story format.  Then I decided, why not write novels and really bring my ideas to life!
 
What do you do when you're not writing?

I spend a lot of time with my family; my wife and two boys.  They keep me busy.  I also spend time doing the other things I’ve mentioned.  I enjoy staying up late and thinking of ideas, or watching cheesy movies.
 
What is your favorite thing about writing?

There are absolutely no limits when it comes to writing.  That’s the beauty of it, it’s your world and your creation, do whatever you want to with it and have fun.  It’s also very therapeutic to write, a great way to reduce stress and escape from real life.
 
What is your least favorite thing about writing?

The editing and time it takes.  If you really want to put out a quality book, you have to do your due diligence.  It takes time, edits and several drafts to get the story the way you really want it to be.  In the end, though, it’s worth the trip!
 
Have you ever suffered from writers block? If so do you have any advice for getting past it?

I haven’t suffered a major block yet, but I have had the occasional fork in the road so to speak when it comes to a point in the story.  Best advice, just walk away for a bit and find your place of solitude to clear your mind.  For example, as I’ve mentioned, I like to escape away with some good music and just drift off into the songs.
 
How did you choose the genre you write in?

They kind of chose me actually.  I was really into fantasy and sci-fi as a kid.  My favorite stories that I still love today were The Phantom Tollbooth and Alice In Wonderland.  When I was old enough, I moved towards horror and thriller.  I am willing to dabble in all these genres, I want to be diverse, like a Simon R. Green.  I don’t want to settle on one genre, just go with the idea I have at the moment, but these are my comfort zones.
 
Do you have a favorite genre?

I would say fantasy if I had to pick one, but horror would be a close second.  That would probably be because of my two favorite stories as a kid that I have mentioned.  I love to read and write horror as well, but when it comes to horror I like the visual stimulation of a good movie.  You can’t beat the detail and picture that a book paints that a movie can’t, though.
 
Are you working on anything at the minute?

I am taking a short break for the holidays, and working on some upcoming promotions.  I just released my second book, Nebulous, last month.  It’s a young adult fantasy story that I hope people of that genre will enjoy.  It was inspired by my boys.  It’s the journey of a young boy in a magical land, on a quest to save his brother from an evil Queen.  Along the way he meets some wondrous creatures, but has to face many obstacles such as monsters, spirits and his own fears.  I am in the beginning stages of planning a sequel, Return to Nebulous that I will start working on soon and be out next year.
 
If you could go back in time and change anything about your books what would it be and why?

I don’t think I would go back and change anything.  Instead, I think I am more of a live and learn kind of guy.  My books are my work, good or bad.  I wouldn’t change a thing about them, but there are always things about past works that you can learn from going forward.
 
Where can we find out more about your books?

Please visit my website – www.aboutkeithweaver.com
I have information about both of my books, including links to all sites where they are available; both eBook and Paperback.  I also have a social media page where I put links to promotions and events, as well as my blog.
 
Finally is there anything you want to add?

Besides my website,  please like my author page on Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Keith-Weaver-Author-Fan-Page/271021416261226

I post all my updates that are on my website here as well.  Please also follow me on Twitter - @drmweave2501.  I always tweet out updates as well.  I always follow everyone back, and love to converse and talk about anything on Twitter, not just books.

Finally, thank you Leona for allowing me to interview on your site.  The please has been all mine!

A little thank you

So I'm taking the time to thank Rosy @

http://reviewdiaries.blogspot.com

For the ARC of 'Fracure' by Megan Miranda. I will be posting a review of Fracture in a few days.

Follow Rosy @ReviewDiaries on Twitter.

So thats all! Bye for now

Carrier of the mark by Leigh Fallon

Summary from Goodreads

From the moment she sets foot at her new school in Ireland, Megan is inexplicably drawn to the darkly handsome Adam DeRis. But Megan soon discovers that her feelings for Adam are tied to a supernatural fate that was sealed long ago—and that the passion and power that unites them could be their ultimate destruction.


 I heard so many different reviews about this book so I went into with an open mind. I have to say I didn't particularly enjoy it. I would like to say that I HATE to write a bad review and I hope that I like the second book more because I will read it!

I'm afraid to say that there isn't many positives that I can really say. I found the characters to be rather dull. I didn't understand why she got so infatuated with Adam on the first day simply because he kept looking at her. I thought they feel in love way to quickly.

I found the writing infuriating. It may just be me but I thought Megan focused to much on how pronounce peoples names. And when her dad says guards she corrects him that they are called the Gardai (guard-ee). You may be wondering why that would annoy me. Its just the fact that in Ireland we call them the guards anyway so there was really no point in correcting him. Also Megan was WAY to much like Bella from Twilight! Actually the whole thing remind me of twilight. Aine reminds me of Alice, Rian reminds me of Rosalie. Strange how the characters that are alike has the same first initial. Even some of the thingd that Megan and Adam say to eachother are like those that Bella and Edward say to eachother. I found that Megan accepted who she was WAY to easily!

I found that the conversations between the characters seemed rather robotic, very drone like. At points I began to wonder if they were even human. And I found it rather strange that at one point Megan doesn't understand what one of the characters is saying (she says that it doesn't even sound like english) and yet after this point she understands them fully. Strange..

Its not all bad the cover is lovely. It was what first made me notice this book. I love the fact that it is set in my home country of Ireland! (always a positive). More specifically it is set in Kinsale. And that is about all the positives I can think of.

Reviewing again

Okay so I have decided to go back to the reason I got a blog in the first place: reviewing.
I'm going to review 'Carrier of the Mark' by Leigh Fallon soon.
If there is any books you would like me to review please comment under this.:)
Please follow aswell!

A letter from heaven

I recently attended a mass to remember loved ones that have passed away and I have to say it was beautiful. I want to share a prayer/poem that was said at it. It reduced me to tears as it reminded me of my granny. Here it is:

To my dearest family, some things I'd like to say,
But first of all to let you know that I arrived okay.
I'm writing this from Heaven, where I dwell with God above,
Where there are no tears or sadness, there is just eternal Love.

Please do not be unhappy, just because I'm out of sight,
Remember that I'm with you, every morning, noon and night.
That day I had to leave you, when my life on earth was through,
God picked me up and hugged me, and said, " I welcome you".

"It's good to have you back again.
You were missed while you were gone.
As for your dearest family, they'll be here later on.
I need you here so badly as part of my big plan.
There's so much that we have to do, to help our mortal man".

Then God gave me a list of things he wished for me to do.
And foremost on that list of mine, is to watch and care for you.
I will be beside you, every day of the week and year,
And when you're sad I'm standing there, to wipe away the tear.

And when you lie in bed at night, the day's chores put to flight,
God and I are closest to you in the middle of the night.
When you think of my life on Earth, and all those loving years,
Because you're only human, there's bound to be some tears.

One thing is for certain, though my life on Earth is over,
I am closer to you now than I ever was before.
And to my many friends, trust God knows what is best.
I am not far away from you, I'm just beyond the crest.

There are rocky roads ahead for you and many hills to climb,
Together we can do it, taking one day at a time.
It was my philosophy and please I'd like for you,
To give unto the world, so the world will give to you.

If you can help someone who's in sorrow or in pain,
Then you can say to God at night, my day was not in vain.
And now I am contented that my life it was worthwhile,
Knowing as I passed along the way, I made somebody smile.

When you're walking down the street and I am on your mind,
I'm walking in your footsteps, only half a step behind.
And when you feel a gentle breeze of wind upon your face,
That's me giving you a great big hug, or just a s oft embrace.

When it's time for you to go from that body to be free,
Remember you are not going, you are coming home to me.
I will always love you, from that place way up above,
I will be in touch again soon.
P.S. God sends his love.