I Love Your Blog Award! *squeals*

How cool are we? COOL! A HUGE thanks to Insert Book Title Here who nominated our blog for this AWESOME award!!! We're seriously so excited! Thank you thank you thank you!!

Here are the rules:
1) Add the logo of the award to your blog
2) Add a link to the person who awarded it to you
3) Nominate at least 7 other blogs
4) Add links to those blogs on your blog
5) Leave a message for your nominees on their blogs.


Just Listen
Hope's Bookshelf
Lauren's Crammed Bookshelf
The Book Muncher
Kiss My Book
Book Girls Bookshelf
Confessions Of A Romance Book Addict

Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles

Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles (Book 1)


Released: January 2008
Publisher: Walker Books
Genre: Young Adult - Contemporary - Series
Pages: 306
Source: Bought


Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥

At Fairfield High School, on the outskirts of Chicago, everyone knows that south siders and north siders aren't exactly compatible elements. So when head cheerleader Brittany Ellis and gang member Alex Fuentes are forced to be lab partners in chemistry class, the results are bound to be explosive. But neither teen is prepared for the most surprising chemical reaction of all - love. Can they break through the stereotypes and misconceptions that threaten to keep them apart?

---

This is the first book I have read by this author, and I will say right now - she has completely won me over! I absolutely LOVED this book! Told in alternating point of views, Elkeles took the most stereotypical characters and turned them into so much more.

Brittany is determined to be perfect. It’s the only thing she knows how to do. She can’t let anyone down or ruin the image she has worked her butt off for. Alex is a member of a Latino gang and has to be tough. He has to show the world he doesn't give a shit. Both of them have embedded this image of themselves to live by, and think nothing will change that. They can’t escape their lives, they were born to be who they were. But they’re not. Once these two characters let you into what is really going on with their lives. You see something different. Sure there is the perfect girl that isn't so perfect and the bad boy who wants more than life, but they sucked me right in and wouldn't let me go.

This book was a lot different read than most young adult I have come across. Simone does not sugar coat the character's feelings or what flies out of a character's mouth. This being said, if you don't like a whole lot of language or crude guy comments, (didn't bother me any, I use to roommate with three boys, I've heard and seen it all) - this book might not be for you. (Although I hope you can get over that because it really is a great story!)

It has the moments where I wanted to smack a few characters, (Colin and Darlene), laugh out loud, (the whole Was Paco in the bathroom? scene had me rolling!), and then bring me to the edge of my seat. There were times where I felt extremely nervous for Alex and Brittany because I wasn't for sure what the heck was going to happen next.

But the main thing I loved about this book was what I assume the author was getting across. Showing that even though there is diversity, and some people are born into this world rich, others born into this world poor - at the end of the day we are all still human. We all have our own set of dreams, disappointments, problems, and fears. I was surprised by the epilogue. Maybe because I haven't seen them that much in YA. I've read that some people weren't too fond of it, but to me, it was the perfect way to end the story.

And if my rambling hasn't convinced you enough then check out this book trailer.

♥amber

Elizabeth Scott Interview

As you know we picked Elizabeth Scott as our Author of the Month. We have to say a major thanks to her for taking the time out to answer some questions for us! Also, don't forget to check out her website & her blog for some awesome giveaways!

Also this month we possibly...might.. be doing a giveaway with one of her books. So make sure to check back with us!

First, can you tell us a little about yourself?
Sure! Here's my author bio: Elizabeth Scott grew up in a town so small it didn't even have a post office, though it did boast an impressive cattle population. She's sold hardware and panty hose and had a memorable three-day stint in the dot-com industry, where she learned that she really didn't want a career burning CDs. She lives just outside Washington, DC, with her husband; firmly believes you can never own too many books; and would love it if you visited her website, http://www.elizabethwrites.com. I'll also add that both my parents were high school teachers--and that when I was in high school, I was in both their classes!

Who are some of your favorite authors/books?
Oh, too many to list! But I have started putting up some of the books I've read and enjoyed over the past few months at goodreads here: http://www.goodreads.com/elizabethscott


Where do your ideas come from?
I've gotten ideas while sitting in traffic, while cleaning the bathroom (!), and even in dreams. I always carry a little notepad and pen with me. Always!

What inspried you to become a writer?
Boredom.

No, seriously! I was 27, at work and bored out of my mind in a meeting and instead of taking notes, I started writing a story. I'd never written fiction before that unless I had to, and I wrote a whole essay about what that first story showed me about writing, and what writing means to me which you can read here (http://www.elizabethwrites.com/elizabethscottauthorbio.pdf)

We've noticed some authors have music playlists when writing, does music help you get into the mode? And what are your favorite bands/singers?
I don't listen to music when I write--I used to try when I first started because everyone I knew did listen to music when they wrote, but I always ended up tuning it out because when I write, I pretty much fall into the world I'm writing about and don't notice anything or anyone. Which means that if the phone rings while I'm writing, there's a good chance I won't even hear it!

If not writing, what do you think you would be doing?
I would still be a secretary. Although now that I think about it, given my odd career path--well, who knows what I'd be doing now?

With the books that you have out/coming out now, is there one that is more your favorite?
I actually can't read any of my books once they come out--it's just too weird for me (by the time a book comes out, you've been with it for so long--years, usually!) and so I can't pick a favorite. I will say I'm so amazed that they are out there and so grateful to everyone who has taken the time to write me after reading one. Readers=AWESOME!

Living Dead Girl was so much different than your other novels, do you plan on writing anymore that have a more intense and 'darker' tone to them?
I do! Love You Hate You Miss You, which will be in stores on June 2nd isn't nearly as dark as Living Dead Girl, but it's much more intense than Something, Maybe or some of my other books. And I have a book coming out in 2010 that is definitely intense---and as soon as I can, details will be going up on my website!

With four books out, two hitting the book shelves soon, you've been really busy! How do you discipline yourself to keep going?
Well, part of the reason I have so many books out is that I sold three in 2005, and the first one, Bloom, hit stores in 2007. The second, Stealing Heaven, came out in 2008, and the third, Love You Hate You Miss You, will be out this year, in June 2009. So there was a good two year period where I had time to write--and I did!

How do you get over the horrible monster known as writer's block?
I usually sulk--and I do mean sulk--I don't let myself do anything but sit around and feel sorry for myself. And I mean that's *all* I can do--no reading, no watching tv, no hanging out with friends------ nothing. Just me and my pity party, and it turns out they can get old pretty fast.

Other times, I just make myself keep going--I'll write the scene after the one that I can't seem to do and stuff like that. But sometimes you just need a break. I know a lot of people say you should write every day, and if that works for you, great! But I need a day a week to recharge, and sometimes more than that. And it's okay--you need to get out there and do things, see things, read books, all that good stuff. Because how can you write if you don't have a life?

Do you know what fan fiction is? If so, how do/would you feel about others writing about your characters?
I do know what fan fiction is, and if people want to write about my books--WOW! That would be amazing. Of course, I'd never be able to read it because of legal issues, but I have no problem with fan fiction at all.

Do you have a 'best' and 'worst' moment in your career?
The best moment--the first time I ever heard from a reader.

The worst--firing my first agent. That really sucked.

How long does it usually take you to write a novel from start to finish?
It depends. I've written novels in nine days. And I've written novels in nine months. (!)

Any adivce for aspiring writers like us?
Well, my guess is that you've got the writing thing down, so I'll just say--don't forget to read!

Can you tell us what you're working on next?

In addition to Something, Maybe, which will be in stores on March 24th, I have another book, Love You Hate You Miss You, which will be in stores on June 2nd. And for 2010, right now it looks like I'll have three books out--one with Simon Pulse in March, one with Harper in June, and one with Dutton in the fall. I'll post more about each of these books as soon as I can on my website!

Guest Reviewer : Emily

We were lucky enough to have an avid reader of our book blog to want to join us in a Guest Reviewer post. Thank You again Emily for wanting to review a book of your choice. This was exciting to us!

That Summer by Sarah Dessen

Publisher: Speak
Number of Pages: 198

For fifteen year old Haven, there's just too much going on. First, there's her father's wedding to Lorna Gueen, the local television "Weather Pet." Then her sister Ashley's wedding to boring Lewis Washer, who doesn't seem to suit Ashley at all. And Haven can't ignore the fact that she's nearly six feet tall and still growing. Haven can barely figure out who she is anymore or where she fits in. Then Ashley's old boyfriend, Sumner Lee, shows up and sparks Haven's memories of the summer when her parents were happy, her sister was plucky and carefree, and everything was perfect...or so it seemed.

One of the greatest things an author can do is create a character that people can relate too. And thats exactly what Sarah Dessen does.

That summer, captures the relationship between two sisters, and the changes that they've faced since the summer that everything was perfect. Most teenagers will be able to relate with Haven, and all the changes she goes through. She's nearly six feet tall, her sister is driving her crazy, her parents are getting divorced... nothings the way it used to be. Sarah Dessen continues to amaze me. Although this was not one of her strongest novels, this one was stillvery well done. Haven's view on her shoe store job, Sumner's cheese commercial, Casey and her mother all got me laughing out loud. This really was an enjoyable novel, and I definately recommend it! (4/5 stars)

In My Mailbox (5)

In My Mailbox was created by The Story Siren as an awesome way to see what other bloggers around the community are reading.

This wasn't anything in my mailbox, but I made a wonderful visit to Barnes and Noble. *sighs* I would move in there if they'd let me! Every book I want, coffee and comfy chairs. What more could you ask for!!

Dreamland by Sarah Dessen
Release Date - May 2004

Rogerson Biscoe, with his green eyes and dark curly hair, is absolutely seductive. Before long, sixteen-year-old Caitlin finds herself under his spell. And when he starts to abuse her, she finds she's in too deep to get herself out...

Cracked Up To Be by Courtney Summers
Release Date - December 2008

Perfect Parker Fadley isn’t so perfect anymore. She’s quit the cheerleading squad, she’s dumped her perfect boyfriend, and she’s failing school. Her parents are on a constant suicide watch and her counselors think she’s playing games…but what they don’t know, the real reason for this whole mess, isn’t something she can say out loud. It isn’t even something she can say to herself. A horrible thing has happened and it just might be her fault. If she can just remove herself from everybody--be totally alone--then everything will be okay...The problem is, nobody will let her.

Need by Carrie Jones
Release Date - December 2008

Zara collects phobias the way other high school girls collect lipsticks. Little wonder, since life’s been pretty rough so far. Her father left, her stepfather just died, and her mother’s pretty much checked out. Now Zara’s living with her grandmother in sleepy, cold Maine so that she stays “safe.” Zara doesn’t think she’s in danger; she thinks her mother can’t deal. Wrong. Turns out that guy she sees everywhere, the one leaving trails of gold glitter, isn’t a figment of her imagination. He’s a pixie—and not the cute, lovable kind with wings. He’s the kind who has dreadful, uncontrollable needs. And he’s trailing Zara.

Cheryl♥

In My Mailbox (4) - Amber's Mailbox

In My Mailbox was created by The Story Siren as an awesome way to see what other bloggers around the community are reading.

I'm giddy to say I recieved two books in my actual mailbox this week!


Miss Match by Wendy Toliver

Sasha Finnegan has always had a knack for setting people up, and at sixteen, she's turned her talent into an online business, molding high school crushes into true love. But Sasha finds her toughest match yet when hottie Derek Urban asks her to set him up with Sasha's gorgeous sister, Maddie. It's not that Derek isn't a good catch. In fact, after spending so much time with him, Sasha can't help but think he's perfect -- for her, that is.Can Sasha push her feelings aside for the sake of her business? Or has this miss finally found her match?



The Second Virgin Birth by Tommy Taylor

This book was sent to me from Cheryl, who really loved it. You can read her review here.

Here are the books I picked up at Barnes & Noble a couple days ago.

Perfect Chemistry by Simone Elkeles

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.

Not Like You by Deborah Davis

"Starting a new chapter."

That's how Kayla's mom refers to each of their moves - five in the past two years. Each time it's the same: Marilyn promies to stop drinking, breaks her promise, and then they're off again. This time it's New Mexico But something feels different. Kayla is putting down roots, starting her own dog-walking buisness, and spending time with Remy, a twenty-four-year-old musician. He's her refuge from Marilyn's daily struggle with sobriety. But Kayla is only fifteen. Does an older man really offer Kayla the refuge she needs? Or is the safety she craves actually with the person who scares her the most?

--With these and the eight books I have checked out at the library, I've got some serious reading to do! So expect some reviews to be coming really quick!


♥Amber

What Would Emma Do? by Eileen Cook

What Would Emma Do? by Eileen Cook


Released: January 2009
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Genre: Young Adult - Contemporary 
Pages: 307
Source: Bought


Rating: ♥♥♥

Thou Shall Not Kiss Thy Best Friend's Boyfriend...again...

There is no greater sin than kissing your best friend's boyfriend. So when Emma breaks the golden rule, she knows she's messed up big time. Especially since she lives in the smallest town ever, where everyone knows everything about everybody else...and especially since she maybe kinda wants to do it again. Now her best friend isn't speaking to her, her best guy friend is making things totally weird, and Emma is running full speed toward certain social disaster. This is not the way way senior year was supposed to go.

Time to pray for a minor miracle. Or maybe, just maybe, it's time for Emma to stop trying to please everyone around her, and figure out what she wants for herself.

---

The whole Are You There God? vibe is what caught me from the very first page. The back of the cover had me thinking that this book might be some kind of love story dealing with the best friend's boyfriend, but it's so much more than that.

I could relate to Emma in many ways. I know the feeling of growing up in a small knit community that is stuck in the middle of the Bible Belt where everyone knows your business. If they don't know it, they make it up. The questioning of faith, and the desperate need to get out of there, wanting way more than the place can offer you. Even if that means leaving your friends and family behind.

The other characters in this book...well, let's just say if I could somehow morph into it, I would slap a few of them silly. i.e. Darci. Through the story, even Emma's friends (okay, sure she did kiss her best friends boyfriend, but they're all trying to move past that in a sense), aren't in my eyes the greatest of friends when it comes to things that Emma wants or is doing for herself. That's one thing I enjoyed about Emma's character is that even though she gets annoyed by thing, she takes people for who they are.

This book had parts were I got irritated (by characters, not the writing), laughed, loved every moment of the sass, and overall the story behind it. Stand up for yourself, no matter what people say. I hope there is another follow up to Emma's story, because for me there were too many loose ends, and plus I just would love to read more on the genuine character she is.

♥amber