He's So Not Worth It by Kieran Scott

He's So Not Worth It by Kieran Scott
(He's So/She's So Trilogy - Book #2)


Released: June 2012
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Genre: Young Adult - Contemporary
Pages: 360
Source: Bought
Buy: Amazon


Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥


In He's So Not Worth It, Kieran Scott manages to umph up the drama, develop the characters, deliver a kick-butt plot, and makes this sequel even BETTER than She's So Dead To Us.

Oh yes, I just said that.

Usually I find sequels a bit so-so in a triology. They are necessary to transition the plot and the characters to lead you up to the final book - the big sha-bang. But He's So Not Worth It was just fan-freaking-tasticaly amazing! No doubt this is one of the best contemporary series I've ever laid my eyes on.

When we left our lovely Ally, Jake, and the Cresites crap had hit the fan and spun around all over the place. And it doesn't look like it's going to stop. The book opens right where the first one left off - Ally's dear old dad who had been MIA for two years without even a phone call just chilling out on her and her mother's doorstep like they were supposed to welcome him back with open arms. Ally's dad infuriated me with his way of thinking things were going to be the same in this family. My heart broke for Ally because as much as she was ticked to see her dad, she was also excited too. You can't blame her for it.

Ticked that Jake's grades were slipping, his mom grounds him for the summer. No shore vacation for him. Instead he's stuck having to get a job, not being able to see Ally and trying to get through the summer. I am so glad that this series is told from both Jake and Ally's point of view. If it wasn't told  by Jake's point of view, I think I would have fallen completely out of love with him. Jake is the type of guy that has sincere thoughts and you know he's a good guy, but when he opens his mouth, he doesn't quite know how to express what he wants to say. It's been a while since I read the first book, but he is so hilarious in this one. Especially when it comes to his job, like this passage:

"I'd been working at Jump, Java, and Wail! for exactly fifty-seven minutes. There was already a patch of sweat on my neckline, I'd cut my finger closing the pastry case on it, and gotten screamed at for trying to serve a doughnut I'd dropped on the floor. Apparently no one around here has heard of the five second rule." (page 94)


While Jake is getting chummy with another Crestie, Ally is trying to get used to what may be her new life. Staying with her mother at her boyfriend's shore house is definitely taking a toll on her. We see Ally rebelling like no other! She meets some locals, one in particular named Cooper. I loved Cooper and his gang of beach bums. Things don't stay all fun in the sun for long though. Ally's got a lot of choices to make and just not with who she wants to be her boyfriend. There's big-time family decisions, and as the summer stretches on, she has to figure out what kind of person she wants to be.

From reading both Jake and Ally's point of view, and spending a good part of the summer away from one another, I was getting scared. I LOVE LOVE these two together. One of my favorite YA couples, but it was nice to see them apart because I felt like I got to know them more as the book transitioned. These two have a lot of hot and cold feelings towards one another, and normally in books that kind of thing drives me nuts. BUT Kieran Scott somehow masters this story where not only did it never once get on my nerves, it felt completely real. All characters, even the side ones make such an impact to the story and are all so well-rounded. And believe me guys there is so much more to this story than what I've briefly went over. The touches of Ally's friend Annie's journal entries as she scopes out the Crestie life were a perfect fix. There is never a dull moment in those entries. You get the delicious gossip plus some straight out hilarious moments.

AND THAT ENDING!!! Oh Kieran Scott, you are the Devil, I swear! If you thought the cliffhanger was massive in She's So Dead to Us, you ain't seen nothing yet! Like I stated on Twitter, if the world ends in 2012 before the third book comes out, I'm gonna be on pissed off chick. If you're a fan of contemporary, or heck if you just want to read something awesome, then you'd be stupid to pass this series up! Go out and read it now!

♥amber

A Need So Beautiful by Suzanne Young

A Need So Beautiful by Suzanne Young


Released: June 2011
Publisher: Balzer and Bray
Genre: Contemporary/Paranormal
Pages: 272
Source: YA Bliss
Buy: Amazon


Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

We all want to be remembered. Charlotte's destiny is to be Forgotten...

Charlotte’s best friend thinks Charlotte might be psychic. Her boyfriend thinks she’s cheating on him. But Charlotte knows what’s really wrong: She is one of the Forgotten, a kind of angel on earth, who feels the Need—a powerful, uncontrollable draw to help someone, usually a stranger.

But Charlotte never wanted this responsibility. What she wants is to help her best friend, whose life is spiraling out of control. She wants to lie in her boyfriend's arms forever. But as the Need grows stronger, it begins to take a dangerous toll on Charlotte. And who she was, is, and will become--her mark on this earth, her very existence--is in jeopardy of disappearing completely.

Charlotte will be forced to choose: Should she embrace her fate as a Forgotten, a fate that promises to rip her from the lives of those she loves forever? Or is she willing to fight against her destiny--no matter how dark the consequences.


---

One thing I love is when an author comes out with a book that is completely different from the style they had before. I really enjoyed Suzanne's debut The Naughty List and still need to read the second one. In that book, Suzanne's writing was fun and spunky. In this one, she took it to a whole other level with a beautiful and captivating tale.

The story itself does have paranormal elements to it, but yet, holds really well to a contemporary novel. Seeing as I love both of those genres, it was a nice balance to have. The voice of Charlotte was wonderful. I was drawn in, completely submerged in her life, and finding out what exactly this Need was. From the splashes of life she sees in other, the writing paints a vibrant picture of everything she's going through.

No review could ever be complete with me gushing about a new favorite character crush. Charlotte's boyfriend, Harlin, is yummy. Full-on-hot-dayum-eat-him-with-a-spoon type of yummy. I normally am drawn to the bad boys (in life and fiction), but Harlin isn't that. Sure he has a motorcycle and wears a leather jacket, but he's sincere, caring, and has a sensitive side. The relationship between Charlotte and him was a great love story. You knew that they truly loved one another and wanted to be together.

Harlin wasn't the only character that was great. All of the secondary characters were nicely fleshed out, even ones that were only there for a brief moment in the story. I love it when an author can really capture individual voices for all characters, making sure they don't just blend together.

And that ending! Oh Suzanne, you evil, evil woman you for making me do a slo-mo Noooooooo! This definitely is an all-time favorite for me. I think one main reason why because of how much heart was put into all of it. I cannot wait to see what's in store next for Charlotte and to learn more about the Forgotten. 

♥amber

Don't Stop Now by Julie Halpern

Don't Stop Now by Julie Halpern

Released: June 2011
Publisher: Feiwel and Friends
Genre: Young Adult
Pages: 224
Source: Around the World Tours
Buy: Amazon

Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

On the first day of Lillian’s summer-before-college, she gets a message on her cell from her sort-of friend, Penny. Not only has Penny faked her own kidnapping, but Lil is the only one who figures it out. She knows that Penny’s home life has been rough, and that her boyfriend may be abusive. Soon, Penny’s family, the local police, and even the FBI are grilling Lil, and she decides to head out to Oregon, where Penny has mentioned an acquaintance. And who better to road-trip across the country with than Lil’s BFF, Josh. But here’s the thing: Lil loves Josh. And Josh doesn’t want to “ruin” their amazing friendship.


Josh has a car and his dad’s credit card. Lil has her cellphone and a hunch about where Penny is hiding. There’s something else she needs to find: Are she and Josh meant to be together?



---

Words cannot describe how much I loved each and every page of this novel!  Julie's writing doesn't stop. The best way I can describe it is as if you were snapping your fingers fast. Everything moves on a beat! The book is based on two of my favorite subjects: ROAD TRIP and falling in love with your best friend. (And plus any author who talks about the movie Hiding Out is pretty much awesome.)

I ate up Lil and Josh's relationship with a spoon because once upon a time I was Lil. I got it. All those times Josh acted flirty without even realizing it. The way your heart starts to pound with every little graze.  Always knowing that they want to be with you even if it may come off as strictly platonic. It couldn't have been more perfect. And Josh's personality was so freaking adorkable! You could see why Lillian had a thing for him, but mainly, and what Julie did so well was you saw exactly why these two were best friends.

To add on the layers that are already in this story, you have Penny. She's the real reason why Lillian and Josh take off on this quest of finding her. You're given journal entries from Penny so I felt like I got to know her very well even when she was present for the novel. It does touch on some dark issues that Penny has been facing with her boyfriend (who is a straight-up douche). I think it was handled nicely and still kept the book flowing without making it seems like things had shifted so much when Penny was introduced.

Now for the road trip part: *sings* awesome! There is something so freeing and wonderful about driving for me so I loved all the interactions between them as they hit hte raod not to mention the crazy stops they made. I felt like I was in the car, windows rolled down, and listening to Elvis with them. Don't let this novel slip past you. Don't Stop Now has all the great elements any good story is supposed to have: fabulous characters, a wonderful plot line, hilarious offbeat and quirky moments, and an author's writing that makes you crave for more!

♥amber

We'll Always Have Summer by Jenny Han

We'll Always Have Summer by Jenny Han


Released: April 2011
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Genre: Young Adult - Contemporary - Series
Pages: 288
Source: Borrowed
Buy the Book: Amazon

Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

It's been two years since Conrad told Belly to go with Jeremiah. She and Jeremiah have been inseparable ever since, even attending the same college-- only, their relationship hasn't exactly been the happily ever after Belly had hoped it would be. And when Jeremiah makes the worst mistake a boy can make, Belly is forced to question what she thought was true love. Does she really have a future with Jeremiah? Has she ever gotten over Conrad? It's time for Belly to decide, once and for all, who has her heart forever.

---

Jenny Han has without a doubt won me over with her extraordinary Summer series. There is nothing better to me than contemporary fiction, and if you love it as much as I do then you are absolutely crazy to pass up these books. It's hard to review a series because a lot of people may have not read it and you never want to give too much away. So if this review focuses more of the series as a whole then please forgive me because it's hard to not just discuss it all.

Since The Summer I Turned Pretty, I have been on this adventure with Belly as she grows from a young adult into an adult. It has been exiting, breath-taking, and sometimes really sad just like real life can be. I cannot get over how free-flowing Han's writing is, and how she never holds back from the innocence of Belly. Numerous times Conrad always referred to Belly as just a kid. It's true. A lot of her actions were sometimes childish, but what girl hasn't had them? The third book takes place while Belly is in college (!!). When the book started, I was still pretty hacked off at my boy Conrad, and I had fully taken on that Jeremiah just might be perfect for her.

And the first couple chapters OH MAI GAWD! I cannot even discuss them because it is a massive spoiler but I was so shaking my first! I was not expecting THAT! After THAT SHOCKING FACT, I wasn't for sure what to think, but I couldn't put the book down. There was so much character growth in Belly, this maturity coming out of her and it was so great to see. Then Conrad had to go and redeem his damn self. Which yes, it made me happy, but at the same I just didn't know what to think anymore with all the characters. Who do I root for? Trust me, Han has made me fall in love with not only both brothers, but Belly, her mom, her brother - all of them. It has been a long time since I've been so glued to the ending of a story where the world around me just simply melted away. (And trust me it was hard for the world around me to melt away because I was sitting in the Jungle Room at the Elvis Heartbreak Hotel!)

The wrap up of Belly's life was absolutely perfect. It was realistic and even brought tears to my eyes. I am a total fangirl of Han now. Her writing is amazing, and I cannot wait to see what else this author has in store for us in future novels because they will instantly be bought up. I also have to give a huge shout-out to my Sab from YA Bliss because without her, I would have never picked this series up, and for my contemporary loving self NOT to read this is just blasphemy.

♥amber

It's Not Summer Without You by Jenny Han

It's Not Summer Without You by Jenny Han


Released: April 2010
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Genre: Young Adult - Contemporary - Series
Pages: 288
Source: Bought


Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

It used to be that Belly counted the days until summer, until she was back at Cousins Beach with Conrad and Jeremiah. But not this year. Not after Susannah got sick again and Conrad stopped caring. Everything that was right and good has fallen apart, leaving Belly wishing summer would never come.


But when Jeremiah calls saying Conrad has disappeared, Belly knows what she must do to make things right again. And it can only happen back at the beach house, the three of them together, the way things used to be. If this summer really and truly is the last summer, it should end the way it started--at Cousins Beach.





---

The way The Summer I Turned Pretty ended, I was dying to know what was happening between Conrad and Belly. Conrad won my heart over as I'm sure he did many people. So when I opened the book, found out what had been going on since these two had finally gotten together, well you could say I was a tad bit ticked off at my boy Conrad.

The one thing I adore about this series  is the innocence Han captures with Belly. Belly is the type of girl that is still stuck in that child-like way but you can see a lot of maturity in her as well. A lot of things have changed in her life, and this book has a quiet sadness that you can sense throughout every page through every character. It broke my heart sometimes seeing how not only Belly was feeling, but especially seeing Jeremiah and Conrad trying to figure their lives out now.

The book started to shift. Like any good author, Han turned the tables on us bringing a whole new light to Jeremiah and extreme frustration when it came to Conrad. I know the guy was going through a lot, but I wanted to smack Conrad upside the head so many times.

And then without warning, right when things had me gaping, it just ended. If I didn't happen to have my sister's Nook with me with the third book on it, I may have let out a scream. It's Not Summer Without You is definitely the transition novel. While sometimes those can slow down or be pumped full of too much information, this one still flowed just as nicely as the first book and gives some resolution, but with no doubt will get any reader running for the third.

♥amber

Invincible Summer by Hannah Moskowitz

Invincible Summer by Hannah Moskowitz


Released: April 2011
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Genre: Contemporary
Pages: 269
Source: FinePrint Lit (Blog Tour)

Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

Noah’s happier than I’ve seen him in months. So I’d be an awful brother to get in the way of that. It’s not like I have some relationship with Melinda. It was just a kiss. Am I going to ruin Noah’s happiness because of a kiss?

Across four sun-kissed, drama-drenched summers at his family’s beach house, Chase is falling in love, falling in lust, and trying to keep his life from falling apart. But some girls are addictive....



---

I had seen on a lot of my favorite blogs that people were just eating this book up. Chase's story is told over four summers, and I'll be honest - I found it kind of boring at first. I didn't really see what the big deal was, but Moskowitz's writing is so free flowing and has this way of grabbing you where even though you may, like me, kind of be meh about it at first, you don't want to put it down. I'm glad I didn't because this story just completely stole me away.

I thought this was going to be more of some torn romance, and I guess in a way it was. Melinda, the girl both brothers are kind of "with" has a lot to do with the story. I never liked her. Never grew to like her, but what really stuck out to me was the family dynamics. You had the oldest brother who no one ever knew if he was coming or going. The little sister who was stuck between still being a child and wanting to be a woman. A younger brother who was deaf and how everyone in the family coped with it. Then there was NewBaby mixed in with these parents who are there, but never really "there"....and they were....wow.  The only word I can think of how to describe this family is: Strange. It's the kind of strange that sticks with you a couple days after you read it. There was a couple of times where the boarder line incest freaked me out. Was it because the parents weren't really around in the sense so they all relied on each other so much? I have a sister who I'm really close with, but not the way these kids were.

It's really hard to write a review for a book like this because even though I read it (almost in one sitting), it's kind of like I'm still not for sure what I read. Chase's story is very, very raw. Moskowitz does not shy away from any feelings or words. Sometimes over bluntness in books (and repeated ones too) kind of pushes me away, but with Chase's story, it had to be that way. There were so many moments where you could see him and his family just being broken and it just punched me. By the third summer came around - I was in shock. I can't remember the last time I literally stared at the end of a chapter for a few minutes wondering what the hell just happened.

I hope this review makes sense. After reading other people's, this one is either a hit or miss. Obviously for me, it was a hit. The kind of realistic read that is so screwed up yet it is so beautiful and powerful I just want to read it again because I know I missed something. So if you've been thinking about not reading this one because you've read a bad review, I really suggest going ahead and getting it yourself just to see. And if you were thinking for one second this was some beach read - think again. Definitely one for older teens due to all the language and sex.



♥amber

The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han

The Summer I Turned Pretty by Jenny Han
(Summer #1)


Released: May 2009
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing
Genre: Young Adult - Contemporary - Series
Pages: 276
Source: Bought


Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

Belly measures her life in summers. Everything good, everything magical happens between the months of June and August. Winters are simply a time to count the weeks until the next summer, a place away from the beach house, away from Susannah, and most importantly, away from Jeremiah and Conrad.


They are the boys that Belly has known since her very first summer--they have been her brother figures, her crushes, and everything in between. But one summer, one terrible and wonderful summer, the more everything changes, the more it all ends up just the way it should have been all along.


---
The Summer I Turned Pretty is a great example of why I love contemporary novels. Diving into this book, I was hesitant as I always am when a bunch of people tell me I'm going to love it. At first I was curious of all the back story that is there every other chapter or so. Did I really need to know about events that happened to Belly when she was younger? Yes, actually, I did. If there wasn't the back story, little snid bits of what has happened in summer pasts, I don't think I would have been able to enjoy the characters. There is such a transition for all of them and you can see such growth not only in Belly, but the other boys - Conrad and Jeremiah.

Speaking of Conrad. Oh, Conrad you have me smitten by your protective, distant, and loveable ways. You can practically feel the pull between Belly and Conrad both even when other people (like poor Cam and annoying Red Sox Girl). In another way, I was completely swooning over Jeremiah too for his hilarious attitude and his strong friendship with Belly. Jenny Han is such a wonderful writer. She made all of these characters, their actions, and feelings completely come alive. It made me yearn to go to a place like Cousins. I felt like I was Belly in so many of the situations she was put through. I also liked how she included both groups' mothers - Susannah being my favorite.

If for some crazy reason you were like me, and haven't picked this book up yet, I suggest going out and getting it NOW. Also don't be a fool - get the second book or you'll be like me, anxiously waiting for it to come in the mail!

Goodreads | Amazon| Jenny Han's Website

♥amber

The Iron Queen by Julie Kagawa

The Iron Queen by Julie Kagawa
(Book 3 in The Iron Fey Series)


Releases: January 2011
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Genre: Young Adult - Paranormal - Fey
Pages: 384
Source: Around the World Tours


Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

My name is Meghan Chase.

I thought it was over. That my time with the fey, the impossible choices I had to make, the sacrifices of those I loved, was behind me. But a storm is approaching, an army of Iron fey that will drag me back, kicking and screaming. Drag me away from the banished prince who's sworn to stand by my side. Drag me into the core of conflict so powerful, I'm not sure anyone can survive it.

This time, there will be no turning back.




---

This is the third book in The Iron Fey series and right when I thought it couldn't get any better - it did. I've said it before that I'm not a huge fan of the fey genre, but Julie Kagawa writing is so engaging and brilliant, there is just no possible way I couldn't NOT love this!

We're brought back to Meghan, one year after the first book has started. Now her and Ash have been banned from the other world, they're trying to adjust to living in the mortal one. While they made their decision, not everyone is on board with it. Like any adventure Meghan goes on, there is going to be obstacles and a whole lot of butt-kicking.

What I really enjoyed about the Iron Queen was the insight on Ash and Meghan's relationship. If you've read my previous reviews, I've never seen the complete appeal to Ash. I thought their relationship was just kind of thrown together, but now I see how strong of a couple they really are together. The love they have for one another is a heck of a lot bigger than I thought it was. I'm so glad Kagawa had moments between the two because I needed to see they both sacrificed so much to stay together.

Of course I wasn't let down at all when it came to my man Puck. Oh brilliant, swooping in and always kicking some major bootay,  Puck always seems to shine through in this series. I still don't want him and Meghan to ever be together. They work better as BFF's than anything else. If Kagawa wanted to write a stand-alone novel with just him, I would be the first in line to buy it! He's such a vibrant character!

The plot was such a page-turner though I had no doubt it wouldn't be anything less. I saw a few reviews say they cried through this book, and I didn't come close, but it does have some emotional scenes that were written wonderfully. I am so anxious to see where this storyline is going especially after that ending! I'm not for sure how I'll be able to stand waiting, but I know it'll be worth it!

Website | Amazon | Twitter | Goodreads

♥amber

The Iron King by Julie Kagawa

The Iron King by Julie Kagawa


Released: February 2010
Published: Harlequin Teen
Genre: Young Adult - Paranormal - Fey
Pages: 363
Source: Bought


Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

Meghan Chase has a secret destiny—one she could never have imagined…

Something has always felt slightly off in Meghan's life, ever since her father disappeared before her eyes when she was six. She has never quite fit in at school…or at home.

When a dark stranger begins watching her from afar, and her prankster best friend becomes strangely protective of her, Meghan senses that everything she's known is about to change.

But she could never have guessed the truth—that she is the daughter of a mythical faery king and is a pawn in a deadly war. Now Meghan will learn just how far she'll go to save someone she cares about, to stop a mysterious evil no faery creature dare face…and to find love with a young prince who might rather see her dead than let her touch his icy heart.



---

I have heard wonderful reviews about this series, bought it months and months ago, and JUST NOW got to it. My first statement to myself is: Amber, what the heck took you so long?!

Julie Kagawa is a brilliant woman. I would love to jump into her ear and wiggle my way into her brain so I could see how her imagination works! Me and Fey books aren't exactly best friends. I do love a good book on faeries, but my problem is some authors just go a bit over my head. You start giving me weird names that have a million 'y' and 'i''s in them and I just cannot do it. If you share the same problem like me, well don't fret because Julie's writing is smooth and can suck you in within minutes.

Meghan is a great narrative. She has a great mix of being head-strong and vulnerability. You can tell as you read that she is frighten, which she should be considering that there is never, and I mean NEVER a moment where she's not in some sort of danger, but she still has this determination to get her brother back. I love characters like this!

Now if you've been around a few blogs, you've might have heard of this whole Team Ash and Team Puck thing. I'm always down for a dark, brooding type of guy. He's someone that you can easily fall for, but he's distant, and guards himself well. And I should have fallen for him.

BUT

There's Puck. Puck who completely without a doubt steals the show in this book. He is nothing but hilarious, quit-witted, and charming in his own Puck-way. Though him and Meghan are pretty much best friends, and honestly, I wouldn't want them to be together because I doubt it would work, I still really loved Puck almost more than I loved Meghan.

Basically if you were like me and still haven't gotten around to reading this series, you need to go pick it up! You will be amazed by this world Julie has created. The way her characters easily come to life just had me in awe. And did I tell you there was a talking cat? I don't even like cats, but I was loving Grimalkin!

Website | Twitter | Amazon | Goodreads

♥amber

Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins

Anna and the French Kiss by Stephanie Perkins


Released: December 2010
Published: Dutton
Genre: Young Adult - Contemporary
Pages: 372
Source: Around the World Tours


Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

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 Étienne St. Claire: 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?


---

There's no doubt that you've seen a million posts up already gushing their love about this book. Yes, this will be another review where the blogger feel head over heels with Anna, and will re-read it many upon many times. And I know with all the hype, some people might get it, and not love it as much as they thought they would. Honestly, if it wasn't for a couple bloggers who kept telling me I had to read it, I probably would have overlooked this book at least for a while.

What I love about Anna is that she is one of the best well-rounded and realistic characters I have read in a very long time. She is not perfect. She is not a doormat. She is not too cool for her own good. She is just a regular girl who is experiencing this whole new adventure in a new city. I've never been to Paris, and I doubt I'll ever get the chance to go. But Stephanie Perkins writes that place so vividly, I felt like I've already been there. And hey, if I ever want to go re-visit, I can just jump back into the book ;)

Then there is St. Claire who you're already sighing a bit over when you first meet him. BUT St. Claire is just an average guy. He's not tall, dark, brooding, and acts like he's the biggest badass around. He's short, funny, laid back, and if I were at that school I'd either be in love with him or his best friend. I prefer the in love part, but you can tell he's just one of those guys who would sit next to you and strike up a conversation no matter who you are.

The romantic part of this story is obviously swoon-worthy and the part I really enjoyed. The attraction to St. Claire is there, but it is so well plotted. There are so many "almost" moments just like in real life. The relationship really does grow in this strong friendship that the two form throughout the school year. The host of friends Anna has were never just in the background to me. They were all so clearly individual and entertaining. Even everything above isn't the only reason why I loved this book. I loved seeing Anna grow from the girl she was when she stepped into that new school in strange city to the girl she became at the end of the story.

Stephanie Perkin's writing flows so easily, I was seriously about a hundred pages into the book, and didn't even realize it. She is so well in tune with Anna, you really do feel everything she writes and what Anna goes through. Another thing I wanted to add in is something I've noticed in a lot of books lately where the mention of sex or cursing sometimes goes a bit overboard. What I like about this book is that it was there when it needed to be there. Nothing was over-done.

So basically my name is Amber and I am an Anna Fangirl! If you love a wonderfully well-written contemporary novel then you have to get this one. For being a debut author, Stephanie Perkins has blown me away and made me an instant fan. I will definitely be picking up anything she writes next!

If you want to see my fangirl reaction when I first finished Anna months ago, check out this post.

Stephanie Perkins has always worked with books--first as a bookseller, then as a librarian, and now as a novelist. She and her husband live in the mountains of North Carolina. Every room of their house is painted a different color of the rainbow.


Website | Twitter | Amazon | Goodreads









 ♥amber

Freefall by Mindi Scott

Freefall by Mindi Scott


Released: October 2010
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Pages: 315
Genre: Contemporary YA
Source: Traveling ARC Tours

Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

How do you come back from the point of no return?

Seth McCoy was the last person to see his best friend Isaac alive, and the first to find him dead. It was just another night, just another party, just another time where Isaac drank too much and passed out on the lawn. Only this time, Isaac didn’t wake up.

Convinced that his own actions led to his friend’s death, Seth is torn between turning his life around . . . or losing himself completely.

Then he meets Rosetta: so beautiful and so different from everything and everyone he's ever known. But Rosetta has secrets of her own, and Seth will soon realize he isn’t the only one who needs saving . . .

---

The second I read the synopsis of Freefall, I knew I had to read it. It sounded right up my alley. When the book came in the mail, I jumped for joy and eagerly dived into it. My giddiness for a book sometimes deflates after a few chapters, but Seth's voice kept me glued right from the beginning and simply wouldn't let me go until the last page.

I've stated before that writing in an all male character point of view is very tricky. There are some authors who get it and those that seem to pretend they get it. In this case, Mindi Scott has captivated a very strong (and not to mention very witty) best male narrators I've read. Her love and knowledge for music completely shows throughout this entire novel. I loved how she never shied away to how teens are. From the parties to the harsh words and broken friendships - Scott really hit the nail on the head with it all.

After finding his best friend Issac dead, it's very obvious that Seth is seeking a change in his life. What I liked is how realistic his change was. It wasn't as if he just woke up one day, said goodbye to his old life, and suddenly became this new and improved person. He still has struggles. He still has many things he has to get passed. There was many times where Seth broke my heart because it seemed that he might just give up. Every day was a new opportunity for him to either take one step forward or as they say, take two steps back.

The idea of two people who have both been struck with tragedy and find hope in one another is exactly something new. But the relationship between Seth and Rosetta was carefully paced and beautifully written. I couldn't get enough of the clash yet perfect sync the two had together. Both of them knew loss, but were on their own journey to recover from it. They've definitely become one of my all time favorite 'couples'.

If anything, Freefall is the best reminder that our greatest battle in life is the battle within ourselves.

Random favorite taken from the book:

"What the hell happened to you being on tour?"

"It's a boring story," he said all casual. "Let's just say it involved me, cops, guns, and a meth lab."

♥amber

Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare

Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare
(The Infernal Devices #1)


Released: August 2010
Publisher:  Margaret K. McElderry
Genre: Young Adult - Paranormal - Series
Pages: 496
Source: Traveling ARC Tours


Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

When sixteen-year-old Tessa Gray crosses the ocean to find her brother, her destination is England, the time is the reign of Queen Victoria, and something terrifying is waiting for her in London's Downworld, where vampires, warlocks and other supernatural folk stalk the gaslit streets. Only the Shadowhunters, warriors dedicated to ridding the world of demons, keep order amidst the chaos.


Kidnapped by the mysterious Dark Sisters, members of a secret organization called The Pandemonium Club, Tessa soon learns that she herself is a Downworlder with a rare ability: the power to transform, at will, into another person. What's more, the Magister, the shadowy figure who runs the Club, will stop at nothing to claim Tessa's power for his own.


Friendless and hunted, Tessa takes refuge with the Shadowhunters of the London Institute, who swear to find her brother if she will use her power to help them. She soon finds herself fascinated by--and torn between--two best friends: James, whose fragile beauty hides a deadly secret, and blue-eyed Will, whose caustic wit and volatile moods keep everyone in his life at arm's length...everyone, that is, but Tessa. As their search draws them deep into the heart of an arcane plot that threatens to destroy the Shadowhunters, Tessa realizes that she may need to choose between saving her brother and helping her new friends save the world...and that love may be the most dangerous magic of all.




---

I honestly don't know how to start this review without gushing like a mad woman. Please excuse how rambly this review is going to be. I can't help it guys.

There is something you need to know about me as a reader. I do not like historical books. I know. I know. I'm sure I'm missing out on some wonderful and fascinating book because of my snobish attitude towards anything...well, historical, but I just can't get into them! So when I heard that Cassandra was making a whole new series of Shadowhunters, I was exstatic! When I heard it was going to be set in back in the London I kind of went meh.

But I knew I could not be a book snob because c'mon, it's the prequel to THE MORTAL INSTRUMENT SERIES! One of the best series I have ever read! Sure there is no hotness that is Jace running around, but there was no way I could turn up my nose. So I dove into the book and was blown away, once again with Cassandra Clare's wonderful imagination and amazing writing.

The formula for Clockwork Angel is a bit familiar. Teenage girl, secret about her family, falls into the hands of the Shadowhunters, etc but I still devoured each and every page. I loved Tessa. She was so quietly strong and so brave right from the beginning. The way Cassandra writes, I could imagine everything from the Dark sisters to historical London right after the second or third chapter. One thing that I loved was when I thought the story was going one way, suddenly there was this twist that made it much more interesting than it had been before.

Now for my discussion of the boys. Will is a pompous ass. He's rude, stubborn, and so cocky you just want to smack the smart ass right out of him. Jem is a doll. He's sweet, caring, and you can tell has this wonderful genuine heart. The thing about Jem is - he's boring to me. I like my boys with layers and mystery, and that's why I am Team Will in this series. Saying that, you might be a bit surprised with my next line: Even though I love Will, I don't want him to be with Tessa. Yep, that's right. I said it. I don't want them together because even though sometimes a cocky bad boy just needs a sweet girl to come along to pull them out of their jerkface ways, I want her with Jem. They're just perfect for one another...at least for now. Ask me my opinion in the next book, and it might be singing a new tune.

So basically, I loved this. The world of the Shadowhunters is one of the best things ever created, and I am so glad we will be getting more and more of it throughout the years. If you haven't even picked up either series yet, you're insane, go get it now!

♥amber

Review: Shade by Jeri Smith-Ready

Shade by Jeri Smith-Ready (Book #1)


Released: May 2010
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Genre: Young Adult - Paranormal - Series
Pages: 309
Source: Around the World Tours

Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

Love ties them together. Death can't tear them apart.

Best. Birthday. Ever. At least, it was supposed to be. With Logan's band playing a critical gig and Aura's plans for an intimate after-party, Aura knows it will be the most memorable night of her boyfriend's life. She never thought it would be his last.

Logan's sudden death leaves Aura devastated. He's gone.

Well, sort of.

Like everyone born after the Shift, Aura can see and hear ghosts. This mysterious ability has always been annoying, and Aura had wanted nothing more than to figure out why the Shift happened so she can undo it. But not with Logan's violet-hued spirit still hanging around. Because dead Logan is almost as real as ever. Almost.

It doesn't help that Aura's new friend Zachary is so understanding--and so very alive. His support means more to Aura than she cares to admit.

As Aura's relationships with the dead and the living grow ever complicated, so do her feelings for Logan and Zachary. Each holds a piece of Aura's heart...and clues to the secret of the Shift.

Sisters Red by Jackson Pearce

Sisters Red (#1) by Jackson Pearce


Released: June 2010
Publisher: Little, Brown
Genre: Paranormal - Fairy Tales - Series
Pages: 336
Source: Around the World Tours

Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

Scarlett March lives to hunt the Fenris-- the werewolves that took her eye when she was defending her sister Rosie from a brutal attack. Armed with a razor-sharp hatchet and blood-red cloak, Scarlett is an expert at luring and slaying the wolves. She's determined to protect other young girls from a grisly death, and her raging heart will not rest until every single wolf is dead.

Rosie March once felt her bond with her sister was unbreakable. Owing Scarlett her life, Rosie hunts fiercely alongside her. Now Rosie dreams of a life beyond the wolves and finds herself drawn to Silas, a young woodsman who is deadly with an ax-- but loving him means betraying her sister and has the potential to destroy all they've worked for.

Twenty-five-year-old Jackson Pearce delivers a dark, taut fairy tale with heart-pounding action, fierce sisterly love, and a romance that will leave readers breathless.


---

I'll admit I wasn't overly impressed with Jackson Pearce's debut novel so I was a bit weary on reading another one by her, but I'll just say it now: This book was completely and utterly awesome!

I haven't read a book with such a kick ass opening in I don't know how long. From the synopsis you can tell that this is in a way a re-telling of Little Red Riding Hood. That's also a fairy tale I used to love as a kid. I absolutely could not get enough of Jackson's spin on things.

Sisters Red is written in modern times, but yet still had the magic that an old tale would have. Both sisters were written so well and very developed. I loved reading the sisterly bond between Scarlett and Rosie. They were so much alike yet so different it was the perfect balance between the two. Though sometimes I wanted to strangle Scarlett in her overly stubborn ways, I could sympathize why she was the way she was.

The world of how the Fenris are and how one becomes this creature was awesome! I never felt lost like I do in some paranormal type reads. The action in this book will keep you on your toes not to mention the twists that come along as well. Jackson Pearce has won me over and I'm so excited to read more of her darker type of tales.




♥amber

Review - In A Heartbeat by Loretta Ellsworth

In A Heartbeat by Loretta Ellsworth


Released: February 2010
Publisher: Walker Books
Genre: Young Adult
Pages: 195
Source: Around the World Tours

Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥


When a small mistake costs sixteen-year-old Eagan her life during a figure-skating competition, she leaves many things unreconciled, including her troubled relationship with her mother. From her vantage point in the afterlife, Eagan reflects back on her memories, and what she could have done differently, through her still-beating heart. 

When fourteen-year-old Amelia learns she will be getting a heart transplant, her fear and guilt battle with her joy at this new chance at life. And afterwards when she starts to feel different — dreaming about figure skating, craving grape candy —her need to learn about her donor leads her to discover and explore Eagan’s life,meeting her grieving loved ones and trying to bring the closure they all need to move on.




---

I remember seeing a show years ago on people who receive organs and start having different habits. To me, that's pretty fasnicating. It made me wonder what life would be like having an organ inside of you that wasn't really yours. In A Heartbeat, while fiction, fed my curiosity about this subject. Between the two protangist, you get a glimpse of what life is for the donor and the receiver.

I never expected for this type of story to hit so close to home to me, but it did. It's probably why I ended up loving it so much and wasn't able to put it down. Loretta Ellsworth created such wonderful characters and told their story in a beautiful way. I found it so bizarre how much I related to both of Amelia and Eagan. Amelia took me a bit longer to warm up to, but I know what it's like having something wrong with your heart. I know how scary it can be when you know something is wrong with you. Something you cannot stop from happening. The fact that she's never really got to experience life to the fullest until the moment of her transplant kind of snapped me into how my health could have been if I hadn't been cleared of my own condition when I was a kid.

Eagan was more of my favorite between the two and each time her chapter came along, it was like I was experiencing all of her memories. It made me so sad knowing she'd never get to experience anything ever again. I absolutely adored the close relationship she had with her grandfather. Everything about the two of them reminded me so much of my grandfather and I. I was in tears many times because of it too.

This is such an emotional read that makes you realize how precious a life is. How many of us don't even think about how in one second it could be gone. I'm recommending everyone go grab this one.

♥amber

Review: She's So Dead To Us by Kieran Scott

She's So Dead To Us by Kieran Scott


Release Date: May 25, 2010
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Genre: Young Adult - Series
Pages: 288
Source: Around the World Tours


Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

When having money is all that matters, what happens when you lose it all?


Perfect, picturesque Orchard Hill. It was the last thing Ally Ryan saw in the rear-view mirror as her mother drove them out of town and away from the shame of the scandal her father caused when his hedge fund went south and practically bankrupted all their friends -- friends that liked having trust funds and new cars, and that didn't like constant reminders that they had been swindled. So it was adios, Orchard Hill. Thanks for nothing.


Now, two years later, Ally's mother has landed a job back at the site of their downfall. So instead of Ally's new low-key, happy life, it'll be back into the snake pit with the likes of Shannen Moore and Hammond Ross.


But then there's Jake Graydon. Handsome, wealthy, bored Jake Graydon. He moved to town after Ally left and knows nothing of her scandal, but does know that he likes her. And she likes him. So off into the sunset they can go, right? Too bad Jake's friends have a problem with his new crush since it would make Ally happy. And if anyone deserves to be unhappy, it's Ally Ryan.


Ally was hoping to have left all the drama in the past, but some things just can't be forgotten. Isn't there more to life than money?

---

I normally steer clear of any book that deals with rich kids and their sophisticated life. It's just not my thing. I could care less about social status and fashion. But for one, that cover drew me in, and I thought hhmmm this might be half way decent.

I really liked how this book was presented. Each chapter is a month and the book takes place over a full school year. Before you dive into each month, you get to read a bit of gossip. It was fun to see what was floating around. It made me feel like I was back in high school.

To add to the book, it's told in two different perspectives. Ally and Jake's and it was pulled off wonderfully. Through the book you could see the change in each of them and it was never rushed. I was a bit nervous for Ally, not knowing what her old friends were going to do to her when they found out she moved back into town. Once upon a time the group of people she hung out with were like her second family. I think a lot of people can relate to that group of friends in high school that were exactly that. But when her dad lost a big chunk of their parents money in a bad investment she's shunned.  I liked Ally from the beginning. She didn't come off as a snob, and not just because she was an outcast either.

Then there is Jake. Oh, Jake. 

My first impression of him was simple: Jackass! But the more I read, the more charming he became and the more I ended up loving him. Jake understands that there is a certain social status in the community he lives in. He wasn't around when everything went down with Ally and the reasons behind why she moved. A part of him doesn't care what people think of her. He likes her. Sometimes I got a bit frustrated with him, but I understood that part of him that was still concerned with what his friends might think. Especially his best friend, Shannon. I won't even touch the subject of her. That'd make this review a heck of lot longer than it already is.

Even the secondary characters, such as Ally's old friends weren't just there for the background. You got the old life she use to have with these people. And some of her old friends, well, let's just say she's way better off without them. I probably should mention Ally wasn't exactly an angel either, but some of those girls I wanted to deck. It really made the book so much more interesting to see how easily teen and adults can turn on one another.

Basically I loved this. I think it was a fantastic started to a very promising series. Ally and Jake are probably one of my favorite couples, and I'm pretty much dying to know what's going to happen in the second book! Even though this one doesn't come out for a few months, it's one you need to keep an eye out for.

♥amber

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver

Before I Fall by Lauren Oliver


Release Date: March 2010
Publisher: HarperCollins
Genre: Young Adult
Pages: 480
Source: Around the World Tours


Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

What if you had only one day to live? What would you do? Who would you kiss? And how far would you go to save your own life?


Samantha Kingston has it all—looks, popularity, the perfect boyfriend. Friday, February 12th should be just another day in her charmed life. Instead, it’s her last. The catch: Samantha still wakes up the next morning. In fact, she re-lives the last day of her life seven times, until she realizes that by making even the slightest changes, she may hold more power than she had ever imagined.

---

Lauren Oliver completely and utterly blew me away with her debut novel, Before I Fall.

There are many books that make me fall in love with the characters, setting, and the overall story. Some authors have the talent to make me laugh, cry, or bring me to the edge of my seat. But it's not often where I find myself pulled into a novel so strongly where the barrier between reader and book becomes invisible. While reading Before I Fall, the world around me simply slipped away.

From the beginning to the middle to the end, this was a powerful, entertaining, heartbreaking, and absolutely beautiful story. Sam wasn't a girl you're supposed to like in the beginning. She has the 'mean girl popular' persona, but ya know, I never really disliked her. Maybe because I knew the story was going to have so much more to it then what was at the surface. Throughout the book, you see Sam's layers being peeled back which made her one of the wonderful complex characters I've read in a while.

I cannot praise Lauren Oliver's writing enough. This lady is packed full of talent! She wrote a story that you simply cannot put down and walk away from. Sam will stick with you for days. This novel hits you at home, makes you think, and makes you questions actions you've done in your own life. This novel is definitely going to be a favorite for the year, and one you cannot miss out on!

♥amber

A Match Made In High School by Kristin Walker

A Match Made In High School by Kristin Walker


Release Date: February 2010
Publisher: Razorbill
Genre: Young Adult - Comedy
Pages: 277
Source: 


Rating: 5 out of 5 stars


When the principal announces that every senior must participate in a mandatory year-long Marriage Education program, Fiona Sheehan believes that her life can’t get any worse. Then she marries her “husband”: Jerky jock Todd, whose cheerleader girlfriend, Amanda, has had it in for Fiona since day one of second grade. Even worse? Amanda is paired with Fiona’s long-term crush, Gabe. At least Fiona is doing better than her best friend, Marcie, who is paired up with the very quiet, very mysterious Johnny Mercer. Pranks, fights, misunderstandings, and reconciliations ensue in an almost Shakespearean comedy of errors about mistaken first impressions, convoluted coupling, and hidden crushes.

---

Kristin Walker doesn't miss a beat in her hi-freakin'-larious debut novel, A Match Made In High School.

When I first cracked this book open and read chapter one, I had a smirk on my face. Then my smirk turned into chuckles, and by Chapter 3 - I was laughing so hard I about peed my pants! This book was chalked full of  hilarious moments that really fits my type of humor.

Fiona is one of the best main characters I have read in a while. She's not a popular girl, but she isn't shy one either. I like that whatever she was thinking also came out of her mouth. If someone gave her crap, she gave it right back. Now, sure, that did put her into some sticky situations with her best friend and others, but I think it only made her more real. I completely related to her and her sarcastic witty self.

My favorite part of this book was Fiona and Todd (or should I say Princess PissPants and Senor Shitslacks). They made this book come to life! How they bounced off one another, the pranks they pulled, it was the strangest and best boy/girl relationship I've read.

I normally have a "but" in my reviews, but this one, I have no complaints. All the other characters, Johnny, Marci, Gabe, and Amanda were all very unique and I loved their individual voices. Heck, even the parents were a riot to read!

I liked how this wasn't as predictable as I thought it would be. Sure, there was a few things I called, but for the most part I was really surprised!  I don't think there could have been a better ending, and really, I never wanted it to end. It was so much fun! I know I sound like a fan girl here, but I can't help it.

I'm recommending everyone go pick up a copy of this book. You need to read this!

♥amber

Review - Some Girls Are by Courtney Summers

Some Girls Are by Courtney Summers


Release Date: January 5th, 2010
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Genre: Young Adult
Pages: 256
Source: Won in giveaway


Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Climbing to the top of the social ladder is hard--falling from it is even harder. Regina Afton used to be a member of the Fearsome Fivesome, an all-girl clique both feared and revered by the students at Hallowell High... until vicious rumors about her and her best friend's boyfriend start going around.

Now Regina's been "frozen out" and her ex-best friends are out for revenge. If Regina was guilty, it would be one thing, but the rumors are far from the terrifying truth and the bullying is getting more intense by the day. She takes solace in the company of Michael Hayden, a misfit with a tragic past who she herself used to bully. Friendship doesn't come easily for these onetime enemies, and as Regina works hard to make amends for her past, she realizes Michael could be more than just a friend... if threats from the Fearsome Foursome don't break them both first. 

---

I've never been so nervous reading a book before.  I think people who love suspense novels probably feel like this when reading. For that, I solute them. The beginning of this book had me flashing back to school when I got the cold shoulder from some of my friends over a petty argument. I remember that feeling in the pit of my stomach thinking the whole world was against me. In Regina's case, this is nothing petty or light that happened to her. Nor is anything else that goes on during this novel. I wasn't able to put this thing down, and halfway through it I wanted to take a xanax.

Courtney Summers has a very unique writing style. She's somehow able to cut to the chase of things and get you inside the characters head from the get go. I can't even think of an author to compare her work to. Her voice is so realistic it's as if Regina and everything that happened to her was a true story. The sad part is, this could actually be a true story. People are bullies. People ruin others lives. And sometimes it takes a rude awakening to show those people the error of their way and some never figure it out.

While I didn't want to feel sorry for Regina, there was no stopping it. The more I learned about her life, how she really felt, and her relationship with Michael made her a person I ended up really liking. I loved that while some very cruel things happened to her, Regina didn't take a lot of it lying down. She was a very strong character even when she didn't see it herself.

Needless to say, this book was amazing. There's no doubt that Courtney Summers has some writing balls. She doesn't hold back and writes characters that you can't ignore even if you tried. A plot that moves so quickly and intense that you don't dare put down. She has brought one hell of a voice to the young adult genre, and I think she'll keep surprising us with future novels.

♥amber

Review - City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare

City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare
Book Two in the Mortal Instrument Series



Clary Fray just wishes that her life would go back to normal. But what's normal when you're a demon-slaying Shadowhunter, your mother is in a magically induced coma, and you can suddenly see Downworlders like werewolves, vampires, and faeries? If Clary left the world of the Shadowhunters behind, it would mean more time with her best friend, Simon, who's becoming more than a friend. But the Shadowhunting world isn't ready to let her go -- especially her handsome, infuriating, newfound brother, Jace. And Clary's only chance to help her mother is to track down rogue Shadowhunter Valentine, who is probably insane, certainly evil -- and also her father.

To complicate matters, someone in New York City is murdering Downworlder children. Is Valentine behind the killings -- and if he is, what is he trying to do? When the second of the Mortal Instruments, the Soul-Sword, is stolen, the terrifying Inquisitor arrives to investigate and zooms right in on Jace. How can Clary stop Valentine if Jace is willing to betray everything he believes in to help their father?


---

You know when you get into a series and you have to think if the next one will even meet the expectations? That's something you won't have to worry about with this one. City of Ashes completely delivers! There is so much going on in this series, all the twists and turns, I stayed up almost all night to finish it. I think my love for this series is not only the incredible writing, but the fact that it's written in third person as well. It's awesome to be able to see other characters and get a better feel for them this way instead of only seeing them through one person's eyes.

All the main characters are still great. You have to admire the humor in this story. I do believe Simon is hands down the number one best friend any girl could have in their lives. The guy deserves a freakin' medal. While some characters made me want to shake them due to their actions and reactions on things (i.e. Clary and Jace). It also made me think of them as more normal because of it too. I wasn't for sure how to take their relationship either. (I kept referring it to a Flowers in the Attic type deal.) But after I put down the book, I realized how much I love the forbidden relationship. Valentine is also one of the best villains too.

Basically this series is just WOW! The plot line is wonderful with the mix of some many other things. I love how mythology and some parts of Christianity have been spread throughout it. If you haven't picked up City of Ashes yet then I am ordering you to RUN to the nearest bookstore and grab yourself a copy!

♥amber