tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-64954375433170897802024-03-16T03:07:47.286-04:00Sara's Urban Fantasy BlogSara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.comBlogger723125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-85366809791698726282013-01-22T08:00:00.000-05:002013-01-22T08:00:06.372-05:00Interview + Giveaway: The Darkest Minds Blog TourToday, I have the unique opportunity to interview the artist behind the cover for The Darkest Minds. Marci Senders is the Lead Designer for Disney-Hyperion, and is here to answer some of my questions. I've never done an interview with a cover designer before, and I really enjoyed learning more about the process. I hope you do to! And stick around, there's a giveaway at the end of the post. <br />
<br />
<hr><br />
<strong>Sara: Do you read the novels you design for beforehand, or are you given a sort of primer to work with?</strong> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TVKCbCaPCTY/UP4Nup6IJYI/AAAAAAAAEUA/xsdpGEH0vkE/s1600/The%2BDarkest%2BMinds.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="205" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TVKCbCaPCTY/UP4Nup6IJYI/AAAAAAAAEUA/xsdpGEH0vkE/s320/The%2BDarkest%2BMinds.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Marci: Yes, I read the novels before I get started. We also get an Art Form from the editors that include a summary, character descriptions, comparative titles, etc. <br />
<br />
<strong>Sara: Do you plan your cover designs beforehand, or do you wing it?</strong><br />
<br />
Marci: The best covers are the ones that are well thought out. I do sketch and collect inspiration before I get started. I also look for illustrators and freelancers who can create the perfect artwork for the project. Working with outside artists helps us keep our covers unique.<br />
<br />
<strong>Sara: Can you describe your design process? What are the steps you normally take when designing a cover?</strong> <br />
<br />
Marci: First I read the book. Second, I do research and look for inspiration. Then I discuss and brainstorm with the editor. From there I either sit down and get started and work with an illustrator. For <em>The Darkest Minds</em>, I worked with freelance designer/photo-illustrator Sammy Yuen who I know could give us that intense cover we were looking for. <br />
<br />
<strong>Sara: Is there a certain genre you like to design for more than others? Is there a certain genre you find harder to design for?</strong> <br />
<br />
Marci: I think designers are natural problem solvers so I like to work on all genres. I would get bored to always work on the same type of books.<br />
<br />
<strong>Sara: The cover of <em>The Darkest Minds</em> is very striking in its simplicity. Was this the direction you wanted to take from the beginning, or were there other designs before the cover was chosen?</strong> <br />
<br />
Marci: Our very first comps had the Psi symbol... they were pretty and more colorful. We also tried showing figures and more conceptual directions. Ultimately, we went back to the Psi symbol but in a much grittier way.<br />
<br />
<strong>Sara: Did you find the cover for <em>The Darkest Minds</em> to be easier or more difficult than your average design?</strong> <br />
<br />
Marci: It did take a lot of elbow grease to get this just right. There is a lot going on in this story and so many directions we could have gone in. Sometimes you have to try a bunch of things to find the right combination. This is also a popular genre so it had the added challenge of making it stand out from some tough competition.<br />
<br />
<strong>Sara: What is your favorite thing to design outside of book covers?</strong> <br />
<br />
Marci: Stuffed animals<br />
<br />
<strong>Sara: What are your artistic influences?</strong> <br />
<br />
Marci: I think I will always be an art history buff at heart.<br />
<br />
<hr><br />
Thanks Marci for stopping by and giving us all a look into what goes into making a gorgeous cover! Now, for the giveaway. Thanks to Disney-Hyperion and Authors on the Web, I have one (1) copy of <em>The Darkest Minds</em> to give away to one lucky reader. <br />
<br />
To enter, just comment on this post and tell us what you think of the cover for <em>The Darkest Minds</em>. <br />
<br />
The giveaway is open to the US only and will run through 11:59pm on Friday February 1st. The winner will be chosen via <a href="www.random.org">random.org</a> and announced shortly after. <br />
<br />
<strong>About <em>The Darkest Minds</em></strong> <br />
<br />
When Ruby awakened on her tenth birthday, something about her had changed. Something alarming enough to make her parents lock her in the garage and call the police. Something that got her sent to Thurmond, a brutal government "rehabilitation camp." Because Ruby might have survived the mysterious disease that's killed most of America's children, but she and the others emerged with something far worse: frightening abilities they cannot control.<br />
<br />
Now sixteen, Ruby knows that she is one of the dangerous ones and, when the truth comes out, she barely escapes Thurmond with her life. On the run and desperate to find the one safe haven left for kids like her, Ruby joins a group of kids who escaped their own camp. Liam, their brave leader, is falling hard for Ruby. But no matter how much she aches for him, Ruby can't risk getting close. Not after what she did to her parents.<br />
<br />
When they arrive at the safe haven, East River, nothing is as it seems, least of all its mysterious leader. But there are other forces at work too, people who will stop at nothing to use Ruby in their fight against the government. And soon Ruby will be faced with a terrible choice, one that may mean giving up her only chance at a life worth living.<br />
<br />
The heart-pounding first book a near-future dystopian series, Alexandra Bracken’s <em>The Darkest Minds</em> will leave you begging for the next installment.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ty-yeyn7xDE/UP4NlkKWkSI/AAAAAAAAET0/ayrBGb7qUGg/s1600/Alexandra%2BBracken.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="152" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ty-yeyn7xDE/UP4NlkKWkSI/AAAAAAAAET0/ayrBGb7qUGg/s200/Alexandra%2BBracken.jpg" /></a></div><strong>Alexandra Bracken</strong> was born and raised in Arizona, but moved east to study at the College of William & Mary in Virginia. She recently relocated to New York City, where she works in publishing and lives in a charming apartment overflowing with books. You can visit her online at <a href="www.alexandrabracken.com">www.alexandrabracken.com</a> or on Twitter (@alexbracken).<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kAme1OIqlfc/UP4NdlYnDOI/AAAAAAAAETo/jkLfvd0CKJI/s1600/darkest%2Bmind%2Bblog%2Btour%2B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="175" width="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kAme1OIqlfc/UP4NdlYnDOI/AAAAAAAAETo/jkLfvd0CKJI/s320/darkest%2Bmind%2Bblog%2Btour%2B.jpg" /></a></div><br />
The Darkest Minds Blog Tour Schedule<br />
<br />
January 6th: TheSkipKids.com<br />
January 7th: Mundie Moms<br />
January 8th: Laura’s Review Bookshelf <br />
January 9th: The Book Smugglers <br />
January 10th: Lauren's Crammed Bookshelf <br />
January 11th: The Book Muncher<br />
January 14th: The Compulsive Reader<br />
January 15th: Anna Reads<br />
January 16th: Emily's Reading Room<br />
January 17th: *Headdesk*<br />
January 18th: BlookGirl<br />
January 21st: Once Upon a Twilight<br />
January 22nd: Sara's Urban Fantasy Blog<br />
January 23rd: Good Choice Reading<br />
January 24th: Novel Novice<br />
January 25th: Tynga's ReviewsSara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com53tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-32800189684704760442013-01-13T22:19:00.003-05:002013-01-13T22:19:56.503-05:00Stacking the Shelves (24)Thanks to Tynga at <a href="http://www.tyngasreviews.com/">Tynga's Reviews</a> for hosting Stacking the Shelves and making this awesome graphic!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SfN9IrVyxGE/T5w6TWuA8XI/AAAAAAAACl8/6W6RJbBpcK4/s1600/STSmall_thumb%255B2%255D.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="225" width="397" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SfN9IrVyxGE/T5w6TWuA8XI/AAAAAAAACl8/6W6RJbBpcK4/s400/STSmall_thumb%255B2%255D.png" /></a></div><blockquote>Stacking The Shelves is all about the books we are adding to our shelves each week, sharing with you our excitement for our newest titles and maybe have you discover a new book in the process! --Tynga</blockquote><br />
I'm tentatively back. For those of you who don't follow me on twitter, I have recently been going through a break up. It has been hard (we were together for over six years) and my reading/blogging suffered even more than I thought it would during the holiday season. Now the holidays are over and I'm slowly putting my heart back together. This post may seem like a lot of books, but remember I haven't posted one of these since November and it also includes Christmas. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LCY-dsMjtq0/UPN5ARLuu7I/AAAAAAAAER4/_qyZu1WZIcs/s1600/bought.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LCY-dsMjtq0/UPN5ARLuu7I/AAAAAAAAER4/_qyZu1WZIcs/s320/bought.jpg" /></a></div><em><strong>Bought:</strong></em><br />
<strong>Opal</strong> by Jennifer L. Armentrout [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Opal-Jennifer-Armentrout/9781620610091?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Beta</strong> by Rachel Cohn [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Beta-Rachel-Cohn/9781423157199?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Reached</strong> by Ally Condie (signed) [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Reached-Ally-Condie/9780525423669?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Touched</strong> by Corrine Jackson [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Touched-Corrine-Jackson/9780758273338?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>The Farm</strong> by Emily McKay [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Farm-Emily-McKay/9780425257807?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Black City</strong> by Elizabeth Richards [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Black-City-Elizabeth-Richards/9780399159435?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Renegade</strong> by J.A. Souders (signed) [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Undeadly-Michele-Vail/9780373210466?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Undeadly</strong> by Michele Vail [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Undeadly-Michele-Vail/9780373210466?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<em>Beta was super marked down on Black Thanksgiving (I went in at 8:45, it was not Friday yet...) I found a signed copy of Reached at one of the local used bookstores. Renegade is by a local author, so I was able to make one of her signings.</em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>Used:</strong></em><br />
<strong>The Better to Hold You</strong> by Alisa Sheckley [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Better-Hold-You-Alisa-Sheckley/9780345505873?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Moonburn</strong> by Alisa Sheckley [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Moonburn-Alisa-Sheckley/9780345505880?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<em>I've seen these around for years and finally decided to grab them when I traded in some books.</em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>Kindle:</strong></em><br />
<strong>The Maze Runner</strong> by James Dashner [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Entice-Jessica-Shirvington/9781402268434?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>] <br />
<strong>Entice</strong> by Jessica Shirvington [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Entice-Jessica-Shirvington/9781402268434?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Touch of Power</strong> by Maria V. Snyder [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Touch-Power-Maria-Snyder/9780778313076?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<em>These titles were $1.99, $0.99, and $1.99 when I purchased them, but may no longer be those prices.</em><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bUbwRrGfD04/UPN5HbnTJ7I/AAAAAAAAESE/IB_2wPSAC3Y/s1600/reviewwon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bUbwRrGfD04/UPN5HbnTJ7I/AAAAAAAAESE/IB_2wPSAC3Y/s320/reviewwon.jpg" /></a></div><em><strong>Review:</strong></em><br />
<strong>The Darkest Minds</strong> by Alexandra Bracken ARC [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Darkest-Minds-Alexandra-Bracken/9781423157373?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Shadowlands</strong> by Kate Brian ARC [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Shadowlands-Kate-Brian/9781423164838?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Cinders & Sapphires</strong> by Leila Rasheed ARC [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Cinders-Sapphires-at-Somerton-Leila-Rasheed/9781423171171?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Pre-order</a>]<br />
<em>I received a copy of The Darkest Minds for review via Authors on the Web. I did not request the other two ARCs, they just showed up. They aren't genres I would normally read, but I will give them a shot.</em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>Won:</strong></em><br />
<strong>The City's Son</strong> by Tom Pollock [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Citys-Son-Tom-Pollock/9780738734309?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<em>I won via a giveaway on twitter.</em><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i8GHwtb-7wY/UPN5NLBlg9I/AAAAAAAAESQ/2MepekIewmc/s1600/library.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-i8GHwtb-7wY/UPN5NLBlg9I/AAAAAAAAESQ/2MepekIewmc/s320/library.jpg" /></a></div><em><strong>Library:</strong></em><br />
<strong>Dark Companion</strong> by Marta Acosta [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Dark-Companion-Marta-Acosta/9780765329646?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Blood on the Moon</strong> by Jennifer Knight [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Blood-on-Moon-Jennifer-Knight/9780762441174?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Redemption</strong> by Veronique Launier [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Redemption-Veronique-Launier/9780738730745?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Valkyrie Rising</strong> by Ingrid Paulson [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Valkyrie-Rising-Ingrid-Paulson/9780062025722?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Dead is a Killer Tune</strong> by Marlene Perez [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Dead-Is-Killer-Tune-Marlene-Perez/9780547608341?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Demon Eyes</strong> by Scott Tracey [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Demon-Eyes-2-Scott-Tracey/9780738726458?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>The Temptation</strong> by Alisa Valdes [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Temptation-Alisa-Valdes/9780062024206?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Blood Fever</strong> by Veronica Wolff [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Blood-Fever-Veronica-Wolff/9780451237033?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<em>I always find awesome YA titles at the library.</em><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7ihf1Zq7N2c/UPN5TwQ8CDI/AAAAAAAAESc/H5ir0xM849E/s1600/christmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7ihf1Zq7N2c/UPN5TwQ8CDI/AAAAAAAAESc/H5ir0xM849E/s320/christmas.jpg" /></a></div><em><strong>Christmas:</strong></em><br />
<em>$25 B&N GC from dad</em><br />
<strong>Indigo Awakening</strong> by Jordan Dane [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Indigo-Awakening-Jordan-Dane/9780373210763?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>The Trouble with Fate</strong> by Leigh Evans [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Trouble-with-Fate-Leigh-Evans/9781250006400?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Sealed with a Curse</strong> by Cecy Robson [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Sealed-with-Curse-Cecy-Robson/9780451416735?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<br />
<em>$25 Amazon GC from dad</em><br />
<strong>The Darkest Minds</strong> by Alexandra Bracken [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Darkest-Minds-Alexandra-Bracken/9781423157373?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Conjure</strong> by Lea Nolan [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Conjure-Lea-Nolan/9781620610978?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>The Unnaturalists</strong> by Tiffany Trent [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Unnaturalists-Tiffany-Trent/9781442422063?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<br />
<em>$30 Amazon GC from brother</em><br />
<strong>The Druid Stone</strong> by Heidi Belleau & Violetta Vane<br />
<strong>Something Strange and Deadly</strong> by Susan Dennard [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Something-Strange-Deadly-Susan-Dennard/9780062083265?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Worlds Apart</strong> by Barbara Elsborg [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Worlds-Apart-Barbara-Elsborg/9781619210639?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Pre-order</a>]<br />
<strong>Necromancing Nim</strong> by Katriena Knights<br />
<strong>Everblue</strong> by Brenda Pandos [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Everblue-Brenda-Pandos/9780982903391?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Half Blind</strong> by Christine Price <br />
<strong>The Healing & the Dying</strong> by L.A. Witt Sara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-9048981326469758012013-01-11T08:00:00.000-05:002013-01-11T08:00:01.651-05:00Review + Giveaway: Sealed with a Curse by Cecy Robson<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8yTzpcvpl5w/UO99jed0AwI/AAAAAAAAEPg/BIjIeFOfsOw/s1600/sealedwithacurse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="197" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-8yTzpcvpl5w/UO99jed0AwI/AAAAAAAAEPg/BIjIeFOfsOw/s320/sealedwithacurse.jpg" /></a></div><strong>Title:</strong> Sealed with a Curse<br />
<strong>Author:</strong> Cecy Robson<br />
<strong>Series:</strong> Weird Girls #1<br />
<strong>Publisher:</strong> Signet Eclipse<br />
<strong>Genre:</strong> Paranormal Romance<br />
<strong>Release Date:</strong> 12/31/12<br />
<strong>Reviewed by:</strong> Sara<br />
<strong>Buy the Book:</strong> <br />
<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Sealed-with-Curse-Cecy-Robson/9780451416735?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce"><img src="http://affiliates.bookdepository.com/accounts/default1/banners/BuyFrom_purple_delivery.jpg" alt="buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery" title="buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery" width="191" height="44" /></a><img style="border:0" src="http://affiliates.bookdepository.com/scripts/imp.php?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce" width="1" height="1" alt="" /><br />
<strong>Summary:</strong><br />
<blockquote><em><strong>Celia Wird and her three sisters are just like other 20-something girls -- with one tiny exception: they're products of a backfired curse that has given each of them unique powers that make them, well, weird...</strong><br />
<br />
The Wird sisters are content to avoid the local vampires, werebeasts, and witches of the Lake Tahoe region -- until one of them blows up a vampire in self-defense. Everyone knows vampires aren't aggressive, and killing one is punishable by death. But soon more bloodlust-fueled attacks occur, and the community wonders: are the vampires of Tahoe cursed with a plague? <br />
<br />
Celia reluctantly agrees to help Misha, the handsome leader of an infected vampire family. But Aric, the head of the werewolf pack determined to destroy Misha's family to keep the region safe, warns Celia to stay out of the fight. Caught between two hot alphas, Celia must find a way to please everyone, save everyone, and oh yeah, not lose her heart to the wrong guy -- or die a miserable death. Because now that the evil behind the plague knows who Celia is, it’s coming for her and her sisters. This Wird girl has never had it so tough.</em></blockquote><br />
<strong>Plot:</strong> 4 Stars<br />
The powers that the four Wird sisters received through a curse are very interesting. I really liked how they were able to work together with their different abilities when fighting bad guys. I really enjoyed the fresh, new take on vampires and werewolves that the author brought to the table. And the bloodlust plaguing the vampire community kept everyone, including me, on their toes. Over and over, the sisters' found themselves in tight situations that I didn't think they'd find a way out of. The suspense had me on the edge of my seat for most of the novel. <br />
<br />
<strong>Pace:</strong> 4 Stars<br />
This novel started out with a bang as the sisters were dragged into vampire court to defend themselves. From there, it was a non-stop journey as they dealt with the vampire bloodlust. One of the things that made the novel really flow for me was how the sisters went to work at the hospital in between the fight scenes. And sometimes the danger met them at the hospital. There was never a dull moment as the sisters ran into danger at every turn as they tried to help Misha and his vampires, along with Aric and the werewolves. <br />
<br />
<strong>Characters:</strong> 5 Stars<br />
The Wird girls are some of the best characters I have read. All four of them were strong in their own ways with their own powers. No one overshadowed everyone else. This book was balanced between the four of them in a way I haven't read before. Most series that involve larger groups of main characters focus on a different character in each book. Although Celia narrated this novel, she never overshadowed the Taran, Shayna, or Emme. All four sisters had a moment in which I said to myself, "She's my favorite!" I'll have to read the next novel to figure out which one is actually my favorite because right now they're all tied. I wish we could've seen more of Bren and Danny because I really enjoyed their interactions with the sisters. Although I thought the some of the relationships with the wolves seemed a bit rushed at first, but soon grew to enjoy the wolves and their protective instincts. <br />
<br />
<strong>Cover:</strong> 4 Stars<br />
There are many details to this cover that I really enjoy. I like how the color is kinda purple and kinda blue because it reminds me of twilight (the time of day, not the book). I really enjoy the swirls on the title. I like the full moon showing through the branches in the background. I like the claw marks on the cover model, and I think she's a great interpretation of Celia. I think the only thing keeping this cover from being great to me is the fact that I'm missing the other three sisters. I realize there isn't room on a cover for four people, but I enjoyed all four sisters and would've really liked for them to be represented.<br />
<br />
<strong>Overall:</strong> 4 Stars <br />
<br />
Disclosure: I received an eARC of this novel from via Netgalley and also purchased a finished copy with a GC I received as a gift.<br />
<br />
<hr><br />
Now, for the giveaway! Cecy has offered up an advanced reader copy (ARC) of Sealed with a Curse to one lucky winner. To enter just leave a comment with a valid e-mail address. For extra entries, you can follow Cecy on <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/cecyrobson">Twitter</a> or <a href="facebook.com/Cecy.Robson.Author">Facebook</a>. The giveaway will be open until 11:59pm on Monday 01/21. I will choose a winner using random.org. Sara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-39580161910374096362012-12-16T16:28:00.002-05:002012-12-16T16:28:19.852-05:00Giveaway WinnerThere were a total of 8 participants and 12 entries in the giveaway for a Weird Girls swag pack from Cecy Robson. Using random.org, I have randomized the entries and the winner chosen is...<br />
<br />
<strong>Silverlight!</strong><br />
<br />
Congratulations! Please respond to my e-mail with your mailing information within 72 hours. Sara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-27531130052861667992012-11-30T08:00:00.000-05:002012-11-30T08:00:13.860-05:00Review + Giveaway: The Weird Girls by Cecy Robson<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iWdwWPaoo6A/ULgFirSDcVI/AAAAAAAAEOE/T-ji29ewJXM/s1600/weirdgirls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="236" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iWdwWPaoo6A/ULgFirSDcVI/AAAAAAAAEOE/T-ji29ewJXM/s320/weirdgirls.jpg" /></a></div><strong>Title:</strong> The Weird Girls<br />
<strong>Author:</strong> Cecy Robson<br />
<strong>Series:</strong> Weird Girls #0.5<br />
<strong>Publisher:</strong> Signet Eclipse<br />
<strong>Genre:</strong> Paranormal Romance<br />
<strong>Release Date:</strong> 12/04/12<br />
<strong>Reviewed by:</strong> Sara<br />
<strong>Buy the Book:</strong> <br />
<strong>Summary:</strong><br />
<blockquote><em><strong>Celia Wird and her three sisters are just like other 20-something girls -- with one tiny exception: they're products of a backfired curse that has given each of them unique powers that make them, well, a little weird...</strong><br />
<br />
The Wird sisters are different from every race on earth -- human and supernatural. When human society is no longer an option for them, they move in among the resident vampires, werebeasts, and witches of the Lake Tahoe region. Could this be the true home they’ve longed for? Um, not quite. After the sisters accidentally strip a witch of her powers in a bar brawl, they soon realize the mistake will cost them. Because to take on a witch means to take on her coven. And losing the battle isn’t an option.</em></blockquote><br />
<strong>Review:</strong> This novella was the perfect introduction to Celia and her sisters' world. I can't wait to read <em>Sealed with a Curse</em> because I want to learn more about the sisters and their curse. Each sister had such a unique personality and they worked together very well. The plot of this novella was excellent. The witch coven had a number of things up their sleeves that I wasn't expecting, and it kept me on the edge of my seat. The cover was nice and simple, while tying into the cover for book #1. I really liked that it was purple because that color just seems to fit the sisters. Anyone that likes magic and curses and interesting takes on the paranormal should pick this novella up immediately!<br />
<br />
<strong>Plot:</strong> 4.5 Stars<br />
<strong>Pace:</strong> 4.5 Stars<br />
<strong>Characters:</strong> 5 Stars<br />
<strong>Cover:</strong> 4 Stars<br />
<strong>Overall:</strong> 4.5 Stars <br />
<br />
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this novella from the author.<br />
<br />
<hr><br />
Now, for the giveaway! Cecy has offered up a lovely water bottle, dragon fruit lip balm, and official (well, not really) SEALED WITH A CURSE magnets to one lucky winners. To enter just leave a comment with a valid e-mail address. For extra entries, you can follow Cecy on <a href="http://twitter.com/#!/cecyrobson">Twitter</a> or <a href="facebook.com/Cecy.Robson.Author">Facebook</a>. The giveaway will be open until 11:59pm on Monday 12/10. I will chose a winner using random.org. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B2A_3KoXn0k/ULgH-8rdhBI/AAAAAAAAEOQ/zQu-mPgSOBA/s1600/swag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-B2A_3KoXn0k/ULgH-8rdhBI/AAAAAAAAEOQ/zQu-mPgSOBA/s320/swag.jpg" /></a></div>Sara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-51362662499294301212012-11-29T19:51:00.002-05:002012-11-29T19:51:19.794-05:00Giveaway WinnerThere were a total of 27 entries in the giveaway for a mystery book from Suzanne Johnson. Using random.org, I have randomized the entries and the winner chosen is...<br />
<br />
<strong>Spav!</strong><br />
<br />
Congratulations! Please respond to my e-mail with your mailing information within 72 hours. <br />
<br />
And don't forget to stop by Suzanne's blog on December 16th to see if you're a winner of the blog tour long giftcard giveaway. Sara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-91398611100477878022012-11-18T13:17:00.002-05:002012-11-18T13:17:49.624-05:00Stacking the Shelves (23)Thanks to Tynga at <a href="http://www.tyngasreviews.com/">Tynga's Reviews</a> for hosting Stacking the Shelves and making this awesome graphic!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SfN9IrVyxGE/T5w6TWuA8XI/AAAAAAAACl8/6W6RJbBpcK4/s1600/STSmall_thumb%255B2%255D.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="225" width="397" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SfN9IrVyxGE/T5w6TWuA8XI/AAAAAAAACl8/6W6RJbBpcK4/s400/STSmall_thumb%255B2%255D.png" /></a></div><blockquote>Stacking The Shelves is all about the books we are adding to our shelves each week, sharing with you our excitement for our newest titles and maybe have you discover a new book in the process! --Tynga</blockquote><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xEYFW8kh84U/UKklkYN5spI/AAAAAAAAEMs/BfxB_yg-HCw/s1600/books.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xEYFW8kh84U/UKklkYN5spI/AAAAAAAAEMs/BfxB_yg-HCw/s320/books.jpg" /></a></div><em><strong>Bought:</strong></em><br />
<strong>Her Sky Cowboy</strong> by Beth Ciotta [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Her-Sky-Cowboy-Beth-Ciotta/9780451238474?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Poltergeeks</strong> by Sean Cummings [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Poltergeeks-Sean-Cummings/9781908844101?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Fated</strong> by Alyson Noel [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Fated-Alyson-Noel/9780312575656?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Echo</strong> by Alyson Noel [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Echo-Alyson-Noel/9780312575663?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<em>I hadn't been able to find Poltergeeks at any local bookstore until I ventured out near the outlet malls with my mom and went to a different B&N. I have been waiting for Fated to come out in paperback because I'm trying to save money where I can, and I'm glad I did since Echo did not come out in hardcover. I like when they match. And I grabbed Her Sky Cowboy on a whim because it sounded pretty interesting and I can't say no to steampunk.</em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>Kindle:</strong></em><br />
<strong>So Close to You</strong> by Rachel Carter [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/So-Close-You-Rachel-Carter/9780062081056?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Ocean's Surrender</strong> by Denise Townsend <br />
<em>So Close to You was $2.99 when I downloaded it, but it may not still be that awesome price. I really enjoyed Ocean's Touch so I had to pick up Ocean's Surrender.</em>Sara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-47197332542080884122012-11-14T08:00:00.000-05:002012-11-14T08:00:16.762-05:00Author Interview + Giveaway: Suzanne JohnsonToday, I would like to welcome Suzanne Johnson to Sara's Urban Fantasy Blog. Her latest book, <em>River Road</em>, released yesterday. She is here today to answer some questions, and if you stick around until the end, there's details about the blog tour giveaway. <br />
<br />
<hr><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bCSBBIWd2Pc/UKLJj47SOzI/AAAAAAAAELU/aM_DNwFN_4A/s1600/royalstreet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="214" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bCSBBIWd2Pc/UKLJj47SOzI/AAAAAAAAELU/aM_DNwFN_4A/s320/royalstreet.jpg" /></a></div><strong>Sara: How would you describe <em>River Road</em>, for readers who haven’t heard of it before?</strong> <br />
<br />
Suzanne: It’s the second book in the Sentinels of New Orleans series, after <em>Royal Street</em>, but it can stand alone. It’s the story of a wizard, DJ, whose job it is to police the borders between the modern world and the world Beyond. Humans aren’t aware of magic in this world, and after Hurricane Katrina opens the preternatural floodgates, she has her hands full! In <em>River Road</em>, she has to deal with feuding merpeople, someone poisoning the Mississippi River, and the attentions of the undead pirate Jean Lafitte.<br />
<br />
<strong>Sara In three words, how would you describe your main characters?</strong> <br />
<br />
Suzanne: Snarky chaos magnet. <br />
<br />
<strong>Sara: Do you have a favorite character to write? Is there a character that’s a bit harder than the rest to write?</strong> <br />
<br />
Suzanne: My favorite character to write -- and also the most challenging -- is the pirate Jean Lafitte. In real life, he was a famous, very powerful French-born pirate who ruled the Gulf in early 19th-century New Orleans. In my world he’s given physical immortality through the magic of human memory. So Jean is forever up to his neck in whatever chaos is going on. The fun (and challenging) thing about Jean Lafitte is to stick to the nature of the historic figure, to some degree anyway, and make him morally ambiguous as he was in life -- but also sexy and likeable. He’s like cheesecake to my heroine DJ -- addictive, sweet, and very, very bad for you in large doses.<br />
<br />
<strong>Sara: What sets <em>River Road</em> apart from other urban fantasy?</strong> <br />
<br />
Suzanne: I think it’s depth of the world-building -- not only the world of magic and the different species, but also how the characters are grounded in the culture and history of South Louisiana. You couldn’t pick up the story in River Road, set it in any other place on earth, and have it make sense whatsoever. The mermen are Cajun aquatic shapeshifters who work in the South Louisiana fishing industry, for example. (And a portion of author royalties from this book goes to the Greater New Orleans Foundation for its oil spill relief fund, by the way, to help the people of Southeast Louisiana who continue to be impacted by the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill.)<br />
<br />
<strong>Sara: Where did the idea for the series come from? Is it something you have always wanted to write or did it sneak up on you?</strong> <br />
<br />
Suzanne: The whole idea for the series came from my own experiences as a New Orleanian during Hurricane Katrina. I’ve spent my career in editing and feature writing for magazines, and hadn’t really thought about writing fiction until the storm. Afterward, I needed some way to exorcise my own demons, and that’s how it all started. It was all built around the what-if: What if, when Hurricane Katrina pushed the waters of Lake Pontchartrain into New Orleans, the storm also tore down the “metaphysical levees” between the modern world and the world Beyond?<br />
<br />
<strong>Sara: Hurricane Katrina played a big role in the first novel of this series, <em>Royal Street</em>. Is there a significant event that <em>River Road</em> is based around?</strong> <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6wrZDnuZiUY/UKLJzR1q9OI/AAAAAAAAELg/5KNXMn8qWQ0/s1600/suzanne-johnson3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="152" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6wrZDnuZiUY/UKLJzR1q9OI/AAAAAAAAELg/5KNXMn8qWQ0/s200/suzanne-johnson3.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Suzanne: Not really. Much of <em>River Road</em> is set in Plaquemines Parish, which lies just southeast of metro New Orleans. Plaquemines was badly impacted by the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill in 2010 (then took another hard hit from Hurricane Isaac this year), but the first draft of <em>River Road</em> had already been written when the spill occurred. My editor and I debated whether to change the timeline of the book to reflect the disaster, but decided not to. So it’s really coincidental. Plaquemines, which is about half wetlands and tied to the Mississippi River more than any other Louisiana parish other than perhaps Orleans, is an area I love and find interesting.<br />
<br />
<strong>Sara: Tell us a little about your writing process. Are you a plotter or a pantser?</strong> <br />
<br />
Suzanne: I’m definitely a plotter. I have a full-time day job at a university, and do a lot of blogging in addition to writing a couple of series, so I have to maximize my limited writing time. I usually write from about 7:30-11 p.m. every evening, and pretty much all day on Sunday. <br />
<br />
<strong>Sara: Are there any genres you would like to branch out to in the future?</strong> <br />
<br />
Suzanne: I think historical fantasy would be fun to write, but I’d have to find a historical event or era that fascinated me enough to immerse myself in all the research that would be required. But it could happen...<br />
<br />
<strong>Sara: What are your influences both in and out of urban fantasy?</strong> <br />
<br />
Suzanne: Outside of urban fantasy, I’m a big fan of the nonfiction writing of Rick Bragg, especially his memoirs <em>All Over But the Shouting</em> and <em>Eva’s Man</em>. He knows how to tell a story in such evocative (and funny) language that you forget you’re reading nonfiction. In urban fantasy, I love Jim Butcher’s Dresden Files series and Kim Harrison’s Hollows. Both funny, sharp series that have kept it fresh even after a lot of books. <br />
<br />
<strong>Sara: What are you currently reading?</strong> <br />
<br />
Suzanne: I’m reading Cynthia Eden’s new <em>Angel in Chains</em>, a paranormal romance, and am on book five, <em>Wolves of the Calla</em>, of an online read of Stephen King’s entire Dark Tower series that I’m leading for tor.com. We started about a year and a half ago!<br />
<br />
<hr><br />
Thanks Suzanne for stopping by! Now, for the giveaway details. Suzanne is offering two $25 gift cards to an online bookseller of choice to two commenters throughout the <em>River Road</em> blog tour. Plus, a mystery book from her stash will be awarded at each stop. Suzanne will be choosing the gift card winners at the end of the blog tour, and I will announce the winner of the mystery book on Saturday November 24th. To enter, just leave a valid e-mail address and answer the following question in the comments:<br />
<br />
<strong>What is you favorite type of paranormal character and why?</strong><br />
<br />
This giveaway is open internationally and will close at midnight Friday November 23rd.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SICxse6kWyE/UKLJZsVdjII/AAAAAAAAELI/L7-xnkkEv_8/s1600/riverroad.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="214" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SICxse6kWyE/UKLJZsVdjII/AAAAAAAAELI/L7-xnkkEv_8/s320/riverroad.jpg" /></a></div><strong>Title:</strong> River Road<br />
<strong>Author:</strong> Suzanne Johnson<br />
<strong>Summary:</strong><br />
<blockquote><em>Hurricane Katrina is long gone, but the preternatural storm rages on in New Orleans. New species from the Beyond moved into Louisiana after the hurricane destroyed the borders between worlds, and it falls to wizard sentinel Drusilla Jaco and her partner, Alex Warin, to keep the preternaturals peaceful and the humans unaware. But a war is brewing between two clans of Cajun merpeople in Plaquemines Parish, and down in the swamp, DJ learns, there’s more stirring than angry mermen and the threat of a were-gator. <br />
<br />
Wizards are dying, and something -- or someone -- from the Beyond is poisoning the waters of the mighty Mississippi, threatening the humans who live and work along the river. DJ and Alex must figure out what unearthly source is contaminating the water and who -- or what -- is killing the wizards. Is it a malcontented merman, the naughty nymph, or some other critter altogether? After all, DJ’s undead suitor, the pirate Jean Lafitte, knows his way around a body or two. <br />
<br />
It’s anything but smooth sailing on the bayou as the Sentinels of New Orleans series continues.</em></blockquote>Sara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com49tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-32044882218072789582012-11-14T00:00:00.000-05:002012-11-18T13:27:21.817-05:00Waiting on Wednesday (72)This book blog meme is hosted by Jill at <a href="http://breakingthespine.blogspot.com/">Breaking the Spine</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PWcYmSBLr4s/UKLFbSk5LbI/AAAAAAAAEJ8/-Mu2vb0Kiss/s1600/opal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="206" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PWcYmSBLr4s/UKLFbSk5LbI/AAAAAAAAEJ8/-Mu2vb0Kiss/s320/opal.jpg" /></a></div><strong>Title:</strong> Opal<br />
<strong>Author:</strong> Jennifer L. Armentrout<br />
<strong>Series:</strong> Lux #3<br />
<strong>Publisher:</strong> Entangled Teen<br />
<strong>Genre:</strong> Paranormal Young Adult<br />
<strong>Release date:</strong> 12/11/12<br />
<strong>Chosen by:</strong> Sara<br />
<strong>Pre-order:</strong> <br />
<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Opal-Jennifer-Armentrout/9781620610091?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce"><img src="http://affiliates.bookdepository.com/accounts/default1/banners/BuyFrom_purple_delivery.jpg" alt="buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery" title="buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery" width="191" height="44" /></a><img style="border:0" src="http://affiliates.bookdepository.com/scripts/imp.php?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce" width="1" height="1" alt="" /><br />
<strong>Summary:</strong><br />
<blockquote>No one is like Daemon Black.<em><br />
<br />
When he set out to prove his feelings for me, he wasn’t fooling around. Doubting him isn’t something I’ll do again, and now that we’ve made it through the rough patches, well... There’s a lot of spontaneous combustion going on.<br />
<br />
</em>But even he can’t protect his family from the danger of trying to free those they love.<em><br />
<br />
After everything, I’m no longer the same Katy. I’m different... And I’m not sure what that will mean in the end. When each step we take in discovering the truth puts us in the path of the secret organization responsible for torturing and testing hybrids, the more I realize there is no end to what I’m capable. The death of someone close still lingers, help comes from the most unlikely source, and friends will become the deadliest of enemies, but we won’t turn back. Even if the outcome will shatter our worlds forever.<br />
<br />
</em>Together we’re stronger... and they know it.</blockquote>Sara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-88770487985391511692012-11-12T08:00:00.000-05:002012-11-12T08:00:10.278-05:00Holiday Review PolicyLast year, the holiday season kicked my butt. By the time Black Friday rolled around, I was exhausted and it didn't let up until New Year's. My reading and blogging took a major hit. So this year, I will be updating my review policy for the holiday season. <br />
<br />
<strong>From now until January, I will be closed to review requests.</strong><br />
<br />
What does this mean? I will not be taking any review requests that will require me to read and review the novel between now and New Year's. Basically, if you have a book releasing between now and February, I will not have the time or resources to read/review in a timely manner. <br />
<br />
The only exception will be authors that I have previously worked with who have a release within the holiday season, although I will be taking those on a case by case basis. <br />
<br />
This does not affect requests I received prior to today, and I promise I am working my hardest to catch up. <br />
<br />
Also, if you have a review request for February or later, feel free to e-mail me before New Year's. But these will also be taken on a case by case basis, and will mostly depend on what my hours look like after the holiday season and how well I caught up over the holidays. <br />
<br />
And just an FYI, somewhere between February and April, I will be moving so this may factor into my decisions as well. <br />
<br />
Thank you so much for understanding and enjoy the holidays!Sara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-39764649668017509992012-11-11T16:02:00.001-05:002012-11-11T16:02:55.555-05:00Birthday BooksToday, instead of doing my normal Stacking the Shelves post, I will be highlighting only the books I received for my birthday. I apologize for how long this post took to put up (considering my birthday was October 26th), but the package from B&N took longer than expected due to the hurricane. Normal Stacking the Shelves posts will be back next weekend (hopefully). <br />
<br />
As I showcased in an earlier Stacking the Shelves post, I received a number of giftcards to Amazon and B&N. I kept track of which giftcard each book was purchased with so that I could thank everyone for specific books. (A few didn't add up completely perfectly, but I'm sure I'm the only one that bothers...) I also got a couple checks from my grandparents, and although I did buy some clothes, I also bought a couple more books. Don't act like you're surprised...<br />
<br />
I ended up buying a LOT more YA than UF or PNR, but that's probably because I do not wait to buy new UF releases. I pretty much purchase them every Tuesday. YA on the otherhand, I don't always buy right away because hardcovers are more expensive. <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PYMfLZ8IhDM/UKASO6kEN2I/AAAAAAAAEHk/Dlpnn44XkfI/s1600/birthday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PYMfLZ8IhDM/UKASO6kEN2I/AAAAAAAAEHk/Dlpnn44XkfI/s320/birthday.jpg" /></a></div><strong>From my Dad</strong><br />
<br />
Kindle:<br />
Crewel by Gennifer Albin<br />
Cursed by Jennifer L. Armentrout<br />
Starling by Lesley Livingston<br />
The Tourist by Clare London **<br />
Defiance by C.J. Redwine<br />
After the Crux by Dani Worth **<br />
What's Left of Me by Kat Zhang<br />
<br />
B&N:<br />
Unspoken by Sarah Rees Brennan<br />
Phantom Shadows by Dianne Duvall<br />
Black Lament by Christina Henry<br />
The Blessed by Tonya Hurley<br />
Beautiful Redemption by Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl<br />
<br />
<strong>From Christen</strong><br />
<br />
Kindle:<br />
The Darkest Day by Britt Bury<br />
The Assassin's Curse by Cassandra Rose Clarke<br />
Blood of Innocence by Tami Dane<br />
Storm by Brigid Kemmerer *<br />
The Given & the Taken by L.A. Witt **<br />
<br />
<strong>From my brother</strong><br />
<br />
Kindle:<br />
Wake by Amanda Hocking *<br />
Throne of Glass by Sarah J. Maas *<br />
Carnival of Souls by Melissa Marr *<br />
<br />
<strong>From my grandparents</strong><br />
<br />
Angel's Ink by Jocelynn Drake<br />
Desperately Seeking Shapeshifter by Jessica Sims<br />
The Shattered Dark by Snady Williams<br />
<br />
*I'm sure the titles marked with one asterisk seem familiar. I had already purchased these titles in print. I ran into a bit of a cash flow issue, so I returned them knowing my birthday was coming up. The cats thank me for this, because one of the things I needed to buy with this money was cat food. <br />
**The titles marked with two asterisks are titles I have already read and enjoyed, and should be posting some reviews soon. Sara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-87063364850018168742012-11-07T20:44:00.000-05:002012-11-07T20:44:06.066-05:00Review: Second Chance by Heather Brewer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6nro86c3NOk/UJsN6yu8gII/AAAAAAAAEGY/zVpbdRoU-Us/s1600/secondchance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="215" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6nro86c3NOk/UJsN6yu8gII/AAAAAAAAEGY/zVpbdRoU-Us/s320/secondchance.jpg" /></a></div><strong>Title:</strong> Second Chance<br />
<strong>Author:</strong> Heather Brewer<br />
<strong>Series:</strong> Slayer Chronicles #2<br />
<strong>Publisher:</strong> Dial<br />
<strong>Genre:</strong> Paranormal Young Adult<br />
<strong>Release Date:</strong> 10/16/12<br />
<strong>Reviewed by:</strong> Christen<br />
<strong>Buy the Book:</strong> <br />
<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Second-Chance-Heather-Brewer/9780803737600?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce"><img src="http://affiliates.bookdepository.com/accounts/default1/banners/BuyFrom_purple_delivery.jpg" alt="buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery" title="buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery" width="191" height="44" /></a><img style="border:0" src="http://affiliates.bookdepository.com/scripts/imp.php?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce" width="1" height="1" alt="" /><br />
<strong>Summary:</strong><br />
<blockquote><em>The stakes are life or death.<br />
<br />
The summer after Joss failed to kill the vampire Vladimir Tod, he gets a second chance to prove himself as a Slayer. He is sent to New York City to hunt down a serial killer that the Slayer Society believes is a vampire. It is up to Joss to lead his Slayer team, and through their detective work, they discover that there are actually four vampire brothers who are on the killing rampage. Joss must use all his skill to save the innocent people of New York City from the murderers. Joss's status as a Slayer depends on it.<br />
<br />
The Slayer Chronicles can be read alongside The Chronicles of Vladimir Tod or entirely on their own. This second installment gives readers even more insight into the nightmares that drive Joss the Slayer.</em></blockquote><br />
<strong>Plot:</strong> 3 Stars<br />
To save his neck for the screw up that happened between the first and second book, Joss must take the leadership role in his very first mission with the Slayer Society. I get it on a superficial level, but if you actually think about it, why would anybody think that holding a fifteen year old responsible for the lives of his five team members is a good idea? Why would they also expect a fifteen year old boy to take on super fast, super strong and mind-reading vampires without a weapon of any kind? I know, I know, it's just a book, plus Vlad kind of needs a foe his own age, but taking this series as a stand alone, it doesn't give you enough of a glimpse into why Joss is so bothered by what happened between books and why Dorian's character is so important. But that very well may be elaborated on in the next book.<br />
<br />
<strong>Pace:</strong> 3.5 Stars<br />
I found the pace to be a bit slow in places when there was a lot of inner dialogue, but all in all it was a steady read.<br />
<br />
<strong>Characters:</strong> 4 Stars<br />
I find Joss to be a wonderful character. I really feel the sad, lonely little boy he is deep inside. You can also get a sense of the psychological issues he has dealing with the guilt over the death of his sister. I am also glad that he was given a friend in Morgan. And although Morgan has his own demons, I felt that Joss' character grew from the interaction that happened between them. On the other hand, Uncle Abraham I do not understand. It's like he wants Joss to suffer even though he claims he loves him. In the first book, I understood his behavior but in this book all I got were mixed signals when it came to him.<br />
<br />
<strong>Cover:</strong> 5 Stars<br />
I love the covers to this and the Vlad series! I love that the match each other, I love that each one is a different color, and I love how the two series play off each other.<br />
<br />
<strong>Overall:</strong> 4 Stars <br />
<br />
Disclosure: I received an ARC of this novel from the author.Sara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-50660286982163119402012-10-28T16:14:00.002-04:002012-10-28T16:15:55.373-04:00Stacking the Shelves (22)Thanks to Tynga at <a href="http://www.tyngasreviews.com/">Tynga's Reviews</a> for hosting Stacking the Shelves and making this awesome graphic!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SfN9IrVyxGE/T5w6TWuA8XI/AAAAAAAACl8/6W6RJbBpcK4/s1600/STSmall_thumb%255B2%255D.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="225" width="397" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SfN9IrVyxGE/T5w6TWuA8XI/AAAAAAAACl8/6W6RJbBpcK4/s400/STSmall_thumb%255B2%255D.png" /></a></div><blockquote>Stacking The Shelves is all about the books we are adding to our shelves each week, sharing with you our excitement for our newest titles and maybe have you discover a new book in the process! --Tynga</blockquote><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rwgWPfPBiEk/UI2RwMbB3MI/AAAAAAAAEDg/5OwxXx1LGuI/s1600/reviewwon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rwgWPfPBiEk/UI2RwMbB3MI/AAAAAAAAEDg/5OwxXx1LGuI/s200/reviewwon.jpg" /></a></div><em><strong>Review:</strong></em><br />
<strong>Crimson Frost</strong> by Jennifer Estep ARC [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Crimson-Frost-Jennifer-Estep/9780758281463?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Pre-order</a>]<br />
<strong>Sealed with a Curse</strong> by Cecy Robson eARC [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Sealed-with-Curse-Cecy-Robson/9780451416735?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Pre-order</a>]<br />
<em>Thanks to Jennifer Estep, Cecy Robson, and Signet for these awesome books!</em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>Won:</strong></em><br />
<strong>Monstrous Beauty</strong> by Elizabeth Fama ARC [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Monstrous-Beauty-Elizabeth-Fama/9780374373665?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<em>Thanks to Suzanne Johnson for hosting this awesome giveaway on her blog! And I think I like the old cover on the ARC a little more than the one they published.</em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>Bought by Christen:</strong></em><br />
<strong>Mate Claimed</strong> by Jennifer Ashley [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Mate-Claimed-Jennifer-Ashley/9780425251010?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Poison Princess</strong> by Kresley Cole [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Poison-Princess-Kresley-Cole/9781442436640?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Necromancing the Stone</strong> by Lish McBride [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Necromancing-Stone-Lish-McBride/9780805090994?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<em>These are not pictured because the books are in NC with Christen and she keeps forgetting to send me a photo.</em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>Kindle (Christen):</strong></em><br />
<strong>North of Need</strong> by Laura Kaye [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/North-Need-Laura-Kaye/9781937044879?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<em>This title was $2.99 when Christen purchased it.</em><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aM2dV7oEIAc/UI2R50MUo0I/AAAAAAAAEDs/9JladTYT1YA/s1600/library.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aM2dV7oEIAc/UI2R50MUo0I/AAAAAAAAEDs/9JladTYT1YA/s200/library.jpg" /></a></div><em><strong>Library:</strong></em><br />
<strong>Glitch</strong> by Heather Anastasiu [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Glitch-Heather-Anastasiu/9781250002990?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Child of Darkness</strong> by Jennifer Armintrout [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Child-Darkness-Jennifer-Armintrout/9780778326700?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>The Mephisto Kiss</strong> by Trinity Faegan [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Mephisto-Kiss-2-Trinity-Faegen/9781606841716?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Erasing Time</strong> by C.J. Hill [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Erasing-Time-Hill/9780062123923?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Everlost</strong> by Neal Shusterman [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Everlost-Neal-Shusterman/9780689872389?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Foretold</strong> anthology [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Foretold-Carrie-Ryan/9780385741293?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<em>I always find interesting titles at the library.</em><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FyKWpNqNq6M/UI2SBXApEPI/AAAAAAAAED4/65CQqn88Hjs/s1600/gc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FyKWpNqNq6M/UI2SBXApEPI/AAAAAAAAED4/65CQqn88Hjs/s200/gc.jpg" /></a></div><em><strong>Birthday Gifts:</strong></em><br />
$25 Amazon Giftcard from Christen<br />
$25 Amazon Giftcard from Zack<br />
$50 Amazon Giftcard from Dad<br />
$50 Barnes & Noble Giftcard from Dad<br />
Library sign from Mom<br />
<em>My girlfriend and family are amazing! I've already spent all of my giftcards and will post all of the awesome titles when the print books I ordered arrive. Not gonna lie, I think I'm most excited for the library sign from my mom. I have been eye-balling it at work for months, and can't wait to hang it up in the spare bedroom aka the library.</em><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NugnJnIA7TA/UI2SKW24GiI/AAAAAAAAEEQ/xW3jsQUqenE/s1600/sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NugnJnIA7TA/UI2SKW24GiI/AAAAAAAAEEQ/xW3jsQUqenE/s200/sign.jpg" /></a></div>Sara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-61273309655708308242012-10-27T14:30:00.001-04:002012-10-27T14:30:56.515-04:00Mini-Review: Out With A Fang by Jessica Sims<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2EZbebtc5ec/UIwmS_oiRDI/AAAAAAAAECU/Rnt27gNEn0Q/s1600/undeadinmybed.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="195" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2EZbebtc5ec/UIwmS_oiRDI/AAAAAAAAECU/Rnt27gNEn0Q/s320/undeadinmybed.jpg" /></a></div><strong>Title:</strong> Out With A Fang (The Undead In My Bed anthology)<br />
<strong>Author:</strong> Jessica Sims (includes Katie MacAlister & Molly Harper)<br />
<strong>Series:</strong> Midnight Liasons #1.5<br />
<strong>Publisher:</strong> Pocket Books<br />
<strong>Genre:</strong> Paranormal Romance<br />
<strong>Release Date:</strong> 09/25/12<br />
<strong>Reviewed by:</strong> Sara<br />
<strong>Buy the Book:</strong> <br />
<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Undead-My-Bed-Katie-MacAlister/9781451656794?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce"><img src="http://affiliates.bookdepository.com/accounts/default1/banners/BuyFrom_purple_delivery.jpg" alt="buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery" title="buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery" width="191" height="44" /></a><img style="border:0" src="http://affiliates.bookdepository.com/scripts/imp.php?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce" width="1" height="1" alt="" /><br />
<strong>Summary:</strong><br />
<blockquote><em>Under the covers, these lovers come alive! <br />
<br />
<strong>Katie MacAlister</strong> conjures supernatural sparks in Shades of Gray <br />
<br />
A TV crew is filming a paranormal reality show on the grounds of an imposing old Czech Republic estate. But the electric passion behind the camera is what’s out of this world. When Noelle, a Guardian, meets vampire Grayson, who has roamed for three centuries, she awakens an aching hunger in him that only her touch can relieve...<br />
<br />
<strong>Molly Harper</strong> cooks up laughter and thrills in Undead Sublet <br />
<br />
After overworked Chicago chef Tess flips out (can everyone hear that arugula talking, or is it just me?), she rents a quiet house in Half-Moon Hollow for a month of R & R. But when she finds the place occupied by a drop-dead gorgeous vampire, Tess’s tastes -- for comfort food, for small Kentucky towns, and for her irresistible lover -- become nearly insatiable! <br />
<br />
<strong>Jessica Sims</strong> excites the senses in Out with a Fang <br />
<br />
When lonely were-jaguar Ruby consults a paranormal matchmaker, she hopes to finally move on from a heart-wrenching breakup with her one true love, a forbidden human. Nervously agreeing to a blindfolded first date with a vampire, she finds the spicy scent of him intoxicating, his voice low, sexy, and so very familiar...</em></blockquote><br />
<strong>Mini-Review:</strong> Out with a Fang was the perfect short story to tide me over until the release of Desperately Seeking Shapeshifter. I absolutely love the idea of a paranormal dating service, so this series is definitely one of my favorite paranormal romance series. I liked that this story was in the same world, but introduced us to new characters. I really enjoyed Ruby as she dealt with the curveballs this blindfolded first date had in store for her. There were some surprises that left her dealing with feelings she had buried away. The cover screams paranormal romance, but I wish the title could've been a different color that went with the rest of the image a little better. <br />
<br />
<strong>Plot:</strong> 4 Stars<br />
<strong>Pace:</strong> 4.5 Stars<br />
<strong>Characters:</strong> 4 Stars<br />
<strong>Cover:</strong> 4 Stars<br />
<strong>Overall:</strong> 3.5 Stars<br />
<br />
Disclosure: I purchased a copy of this novel for my reading pleasure.Sara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-53634287923985087482012-10-27T14:13:00.002-04:002012-10-27T14:13:23.580-04:00Giveaway WinnersThere was a total of 33 entries in the Break My Heart 1000 Times by Daniel Waters Giveaway. The winner chosen by Rafflecopter is...<br />
<br />
<strong>Katie W.!</strong><br />
<br />
Congratulations! Please respond to the e-mail I sent with your mailing information within 72 hours.<br />
<br />
The original winners of Fathom by Merrie Destefano never e-mailed me, so I have chosen new winners:<br />
<br />
<strong>bn100 & erin!</strong><br />
<br />
I have forwarded your e-mail addresses to Merrie and she should be contacting you soon about Fathom.Sara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-82998571440292609162012-10-24T08:00:00.000-04:002012-10-24T08:00:10.548-04:00Waiting on Wednesday (71)This book blog meme is hosted by Jill at <a href="http://breakingthespine.blogspot.com/">Breaking the Spine</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lQRMvbkOg3o/UIdAQnur2JI/AAAAAAAAEBA/ovdS1aKnthI/s1600/darkestminds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="205" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lQRMvbkOg3o/UIdAQnur2JI/AAAAAAAAEBA/ovdS1aKnthI/s320/darkestminds.jpg" /></a></div><strong>Title:</strong> The Darkest Minds<br />
<strong>Author:</strong> Alexandra Bracken<br />
<strong>Publisher:</strong> Hyperion<br />
<strong>Genre:</strong> Paranormal Young Adult<br />
<strong>Release date:</strong> 12/18/12<br />
<strong>Chosen by:</strong> Sara<br />
<strong>Pre-order:</strong> <br />
<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Crimson-Frost-Jennifer-Estep/9780758281463?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce"><img src="http://affiliates.bookdepository.com/accounts/default1/banners/BuyFrom_purple_delivery.jpg" alt="buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery" title="buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery" width="191" height="44" /></a><img style="border:0" src="http://affiliates.bookdepository.com/scripts/imp.php?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce" width="1" height="1" alt="" /><br />
<strong>Summary:</strong><br />
<blockquote><em>When Ruby woke up on her tenth birthday, something about her had changed. Something alarming enough to make her parents lock her in the garage and call the police. Something that gets her sent to Thurmond, a brutal government “rehabilitation camp.” She might have survived the mysterious disease that’s killed most of America’s children, but she and the others have emerged with something far worse: frightening abilities they cannot control.<br />
<br />
Now sixteen, Ruby is one of the dangerous ones.<br />
<br />
When the truth comes out, Ruby barely escapes Thurmond with her life. Now she’s on the run, desperate to find the one safe haven left for kids like her -- East River. She joins a group of kids who escaped their own camp. Liam, their brave leader, is falling hard for Ruby. But no matter how much she aches for him, Ruby can’t risk getting close. Not after what happened to her parents.<br />
<br />
When they arrive at East River, nothing is as it seems, least of all its mysterious leader. But there are other forces at work, people who will stop at nothing to use Ruby in their fight against the government. Ruby will be faced with a terrible choice, one that may mean giving up her only chance at a life worth living.</em></blockquote>Sara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-17437657036127917482012-10-22T08:00:00.000-04:002012-10-22T08:00:13.002-04:00Mini-Review: Perception by Kim Harrington<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YqpcvFFS2co/UISXeGHskPI/AAAAAAAAD_s/KnlkUT0qRtU/s1600/perception.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YqpcvFFS2co/UISXeGHskPI/AAAAAAAAD_s/KnlkUT0qRtU/s320/perception.jpg" /></a></div><strong>Title:</strong> Perception<br />
<strong>Author:</strong> Kim Harrington<br />
<strong>Series:</strong> Clarity #2<br />
<strong>Publisher:</strong> Point<br />
<strong>Genre:</strong> Paranormal Young Adult<br />
<strong>Release Date:</strong> 03/01/12<br />
<strong>Reviewed by:</strong> Sara<br />
<strong>Buy the Book:</strong> <br />
<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Perception-Kim-Harrington/9780545230537?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce"><img src="http://affiliates.bookdepository.com/accounts/default1/banners/BuyFrom_purple_delivery.jpg" alt="buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery" title="buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery" width="191" height="44" /></a><img style="border:0" src="http://affiliates.bookdepository.com/scripts/imp.php?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce" width="1" height="1" alt="" /><br />
<strong>Summary:</strong><br />
<blockquote><em>When you can see things others can't, what happens when someone is watching you?<br />
<br />
Everybody knows about Clarity "Clare" Fern. She's the psychic girl in school, the one who can place her hands on something and see hidden visions from the past.<br />
<br />
Only, Clare would rather not be a celebrity. She prefers hanging back, observing. Her gift is not a game to her.<br />
<br />
But then someone starts playing with her head and heart. Messages and gifts from a secret admirer crop up everywhere Clare turns. Could they be from Gabriel, the gorgeous boy who gets Clare's pulse racing? Or from Justin, Clare's hopeful ex-boyfriend who'd do anything to win her back?<br />
<br />
One thing is certain. Clare needs to solve this mystery, and soon. Because the messages are becoming sinister, and a girl in town has suddenly disappeared. Clare needs to see her way to the truth -- before it's much too late.</em></blockquote><br />
<strong>Mini-Review:</strong> This was a great follow up to <em>Clarity</em>, which I read and enjoyed last summer. I am a big fan of paranormal young adult novels that include a psychic element, and Clare Fern is one of my favorite psychics. Fans of <em>The Body Finder</em> series and the <em>Touch</em> series will love Clare also. This novel was a quick read in all of the right ways, just like its predecessor. I really enjoyed jumping back into this world. I also enjoyed learning more about the characters and watching them grow. I really liked the new cover model because she looks a bit more like how I imagined Clare. I also like that the cover has a lot of white. It's bring a brightness that helps it stand out against all of the other dark covers in paranormal young adult. <br />
<br />
<strong>Plot:</strong> 4 Stars<br />
<strong>Pace:</strong> 4.5 Stars<br />
<strong>Characters:</strong> 4 Stars<br />
<strong>Cover:</strong> 4 Stars<br />
<strong>Overall:</strong> 4 Stars<br />
<br />
Disclosure: I purchased a used copy of this novel.Sara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-51477492628230277942012-10-21T20:27:00.002-04:002012-10-21T20:27:30.789-04:00Giveaway WinnersThere was a total of 6 participants in the Mysterious Madam Morpho by Delilah S. Dawson giveaway. Using <a href="http://www.random.org/">random.org</a>, I randomized the list of entries, and then random selected the winners. The winners are...<br />
<br />
<strong>donnas & JenM!</strong><br />
<br />
I have sent both of you an e-mail about the giveaway. <br />
<br />
There was a total of 5 participants in the Fathom by Merrie Destefano giveaway. Using <a href="http://www.random.org/">random.org</a>, I randomized the list of entries, and then random selected the winners. The winners are...<br />
<br />
<strong>SandyG265 & Catrina Bradley!</strong><br />
<br />
I need both of you to e-mail me at sara_UFblog [at] yahoo [dot] com so that I can pass your e-mail addresses along to Merrie so that she can send your copies of Fathom.<br />
<br />
Congratulations! You have 72 hours to respond to my e-mail/e-mail me, otherwise I will choose new winners.Sara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-81063240182488117232012-10-20T22:08:00.002-04:002012-10-20T22:08:42.804-04:00Stacking the Shelves (21)Thanks to Tynga at <a href="http://www.tyngasreviews.com/">Tynga's Reviews</a> for hosting Stacking the Shelves and making this awesome graphic!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SfN9IrVyxGE/T5w6TWuA8XI/AAAAAAAACl8/6W6RJbBpcK4/s1600/STSmall_thumb%255B2%255D.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="225" width="397" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SfN9IrVyxGE/T5w6TWuA8XI/AAAAAAAACl8/6W6RJbBpcK4/s400/STSmall_thumb%255B2%255D.png" /></a></div><blockquote>Stacking The Shelves is all about the books we are adding to our shelves each week, sharing with you our excitement for our newest titles and maybe have you discover a new book in the process! --Tynga</blockquote><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bkkhN9OFjXA/UINYV_kybTI/AAAAAAAAD-c/57Xkanc_gMo/s1600/picture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bkkhN9OFjXA/UINYV_kybTI/AAAAAAAAD-c/57Xkanc_gMo/s320/picture.jpg" /></a></div><em><strong>Bought:</strong></em><br />
<strong>Death and the Girl Next Door</strong> by Darynda Jones [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Death-Girl-Next-Door-Darynda-Jones/9780312625207?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Alchemystic</strong> by Anton Strout [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Alchemystic-Anton-Strout/9781937007799?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<em>I'm excited foe both of these novels, and felt I needed a reward after this past week at work. My direct supervisor quit and he was one of the few people in the store keeping me sane.</em>Sara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-85726151764406222152012-10-17T08:00:00.000-04:002012-10-17T08:00:17.571-04:00Guest Blog + Giveaway: Daniel WatersToday, I would like to welcome Daniel Waters to Sara's Urban Fantasy Blog. His latest book, <em>Break My Heart 1,000 Times</em>, released yesterday. He is here today to talk about his writing process, and if you stick around until the end, there's a giveaway. <br />
<br />
<hr><br />
On the writing process<br />
<br />
I am a process junkie. I'll read every word I can find from individual writers and their various processes, even if I don't particularly like the writer's work. I'll also read about artists and their creative processes; also musicians, cartoonists, chefs, architects -- if you create something, I want to know about how you do it.<br />
<br />
Possibly all that reading on process has led me to alter my own processes dozens of times. Sometimes I write my first draft in longhand on a legal pad. Sometimes a spiral bound. I've written a first draft on a laptop, an iPad, a desktop computer and an Alpha Smart Neo. Sometimes I invest certain pens with totemic significance. I will occasionally outline extensively before writing but sometimes I don't see the structure until I write fifty pages or so. I've begun editing my first drafts immediately after typing "The End" and others I've edited after they sat in a drawer for months. I sometimes don't finish what I start, I sometimes blow up what I've started. I've rewritten a single chapter 13 times and once I wrote one that I did not change a single word of (my editor was not as impressed as I was). I've written in a caffeine fueled passion at 2 a.m. and I've taken an hour to write one sentence when first sitting down at my desk. I like to write in my home office, but I've done decent work in fast food restaurants, libraries, the allergists', and especially airports and airplanes. <br />
<br />
With so much of my process in flux, I realize that only two things remain constant:<br />
<br />
1. Discipline: I write every day. I'll do it wherever, whenever, and however I can. I'd rather write than do almost anything, so that helps me be disciplined. It doesn't matter if what I'm writing at the time is unusable garbage, what matters is the writing itself, the process. <br />
<br />
2. Love: I love writing. I love the scratch of pen on paper, the tap of my fingers on keys (I can't type; I'm sort of a two finger, one thumb writer. My fingers strike the keys with force, like I'm trying to stab out an infestation particularly chitinous bugs), and I love story. I'm a writer who loves both writing and having written. This isn't to say that every single moment is pure ecstasy; writing can be frustrating. It can break your heart, 1000 times and more.<br />
<br />
But love is like that.<br />
<br />
(Note: For the fellow process junkies out there, I wrote <em>Break My Heart 1,000 Times</em> in longhand, with a blue fine line pen of totemic significance. Much of it was written in airports and airplanes while drinking iced coffee and listening to a playlist called "Blast" on my iPod. Then I wrote an outline, and then I typed the second, more structurally sound draft, which went into the desktop computer in the sunroom office at my last house. Then it sat in a drawer. For a loooong time. When I printed it out I also made a cover for it, which is something I do for all my manuscripts-in-progress. The cover, for no discernible reason, was a photograph of a pheasant running through my backyard. Pheasants are not native to Southeastern Connecticut, I'm told, so this one was likely released in time for hunting season from a breeding farm a good twenty miles away. You can see the photo if you look in the archives of my website, <a href="www.danielwaters.com">www.danielwaters.com</a>. I had exceptional editorial guidance first from my agent, Al Zuckerman, and then my editor Catherine Onder. Hayley Wagreich helped me with final touches and helped me fix some continuity errors I'd made. I did my last edit pass with purple ink, but the pen I used had no totemic significance. It was just a cool pen. It is my most fervent wish that this note will help you in your own artistic endeavors, but I don't see how it possibly could).<br />
<br />
<hr><br />
Thanks Daniel for stopping by! Now, for the giveaway. Thanks to Authors on the Web, I have one (1) copy of <em>Break My Heart 1,000 Times</em> to to give away to one lucky winner. The giveaway is open to US/Canada. I'm going to try Rafflecopter out for the first time, so please you the following Rafflecopter form to enter the giveaway:<br />
<br />
<a id="rc-31b8250" class="rafl" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/31b8250/" rel="nofollow">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a> <script src="//d12vno17mo87cx.cloudfront.net/embed/rafl/cptr.js"></script><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cuiUOfIO-Mk/UHyuyv-ieKI/AAAAAAAAD9M/BK-kWQkqV3Y/s1600/breakmyheart1000times.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="208" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cuiUOfIO-Mk/UHyuyv-ieKI/AAAAAAAAD9M/BK-kWQkqV3Y/s320/breakmyheart1000times.jpg" /></a></div><strong>Title:</strong> Break My Heart 1,000 Times<br />
<strong>Author:</strong> Daniel Waters<br />
<strong>Summary:</strong><br />
<blockquote><em>Living in the aftermath of the Event means that seeing the dead is now a part of life, but Veronica wishes that the ghosts would just move on. Instead, the ghosts aren’t disappearing -- they’re gaining power. <br />
<br />
When Veronica and her friend, Kirk, decide to investigate why, they stumble upon a more sinister plot than they ever could have imagined. One of Veronica’s high school teachers is crippled by the fact that his dead daughter has never returned as a ghost, and he’s haunted by the possibility that she’s waiting to reappear within a fresh body. Veronica seems like the perfect host. And even if he’s wrong, what’s the harm in creating one more ghost?<br />
<br />
From critically acclaimed Generation Dead author Daniel Waters, comes a delectably creepy and suspenseful thriller. Break My Heart 1,000 Times will leave readers with the chills. Or is that a ghost reading over the page?</em></blockquote><br />
[<a href="http://www.gendead.com/">http://www.gendead.com/</a>][<a href="http://www.danielwaters.com/">http://www.danielwaters.com/</a>][<a href="http://mysocalledundeath.blogspot.com/">http://mysocalledundeath.blogspot.com/</a>]Sara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-25432300544106924272012-10-17T00:00:00.000-04:002012-10-17T00:00:06.846-04:00Waiting on Wednesday (70)This book blog meme is hosted by Jill at <a href="http://breakingthespine.blogspot.com/">Breaking the Spine</a>.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0s1YEkkOwVY/UHynCyudTcI/AAAAAAAAD78/tcp8aPQoLkk/s1600/crimsonfrost.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="212" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0s1YEkkOwVY/UHynCyudTcI/AAAAAAAAD78/tcp8aPQoLkk/s320/crimsonfrost.jpg" /></a></div><strong>Title:</strong> Crimson Frost<br />
<strong>Author:</strong> Jennifer Estep<br />
<strong>Series:</strong> Mythos Academy #4<br />
<strong>Publisher:</strong> Kensington Teen<br />
<strong>Genre:</strong> Paranormal Young Adult<br />
<strong>Release date:</strong> 12/24/12<br />
<strong>Chosen by:</strong> Sara<br />
<strong>Pre-order:</strong> <br />
<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Crimson-Frost-Jennifer-Estep/9780758281463?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce"><img src="http://affiliates.bookdepository.com/accounts/default1/banners/BuyFrom_purple_delivery.jpg" alt="buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery" title="buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery" width="191" height="44" /></a><img style="border:0" src="http://affiliates.bookdepository.com/scripts/imp.php?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce" width="1" height="1" alt="" /><br />
<strong>Summary:</strong><br />
<blockquote><em>Gwen should have known that her first official date with Logan Quinn was destined to end in disaster. She was prepared to get into a swordfight, or be ambushed by Reapers. But getting arrested mid-sip at the local coffee hangout? She didn't see that one coming. Gwen is accused of purposely helping the Reapers free the evil god Loki from his prison - and the person leading the charge against her is Linus Quinn, Logan's dad. The worst part is that pretty much everyone at Mythos Academy thinks she's guilty. If she's going to get out of this mess alive, she'll have to do it herself...</em></blockquote>Sara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-27551451888165231032012-10-16T08:00:00.000-04:002012-10-16T08:00:06.942-04:00Mini-Review: Widow's Web by Jennifer Estep<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4CJ53mSSDc4/UHybuPW5IRI/AAAAAAAAD6s/unugnZx_300/s1600/widowsweb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="196" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4CJ53mSSDc4/UHybuPW5IRI/AAAAAAAAD6s/unugnZx_300/s320/widowsweb.jpg" /></a></div><strong>Title:</strong> Widow's Web<br />
<strong>Author:</strong> Jennifer Estep<br />
<strong>Series:</strong> Elemental Assassin #7<br />
<strong>Publisher:</strong> Pocket Books<br />
<strong>Genre:</strong> Urban Fantasy<br />
<strong>Release Date:</strong> 08/21/12<br />
<strong>Reviewed by:</strong> Sara<br />
<strong>Buy the Book:</strong> <br />
<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Widows-Web-Jennifer-Estep/9781451651775?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce"><img src="http://affiliates.bookdepository.com/accounts/default1/banners/BuyFrom_purple_delivery.jpg" alt="buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery" title="buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery" width="191" height="44" /></a><img style="border:0" src="http://affiliates.bookdepository.com/scripts/imp.php?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce" width="1" height="1" alt="" /><br />
<strong>Summary:</strong><br />
<blockquote><em>I used to murder people for money, but lately it’s become more of a survival technique. <br />
<br />
Once an assassin, always an assassin. So much for being plain old Gin Blanco. With every lowlife in Ashland gunning for me, I don’t need another problem, but a new one has come to town anyway. Salina might seem like a sweet Southern belle, but she’s really a dangerous enemy whose water elemental magic can go head-to-head with my own Ice and Stone power. Salina also has an intimate history with my lover, Owen Grayson, and now that she’s back, she thinks he’s hers for the taking. Salina’s playing a mysterious game that involves a shady local casino owner with a surprising connection to Owen. But they call me the Spider for a reason. I’m going to untangle her deadly scheme, even if it leaves my love affair hanging by a thread.</em></blockquote><br />
<strong>Mini-Review:</strong> This was yet another fantastic installment to one of my favorite urban fantasy series of all time. Even after seven books, the author still surprises me every time. I really enjoyed getting more of Owen's backstory, since until now only bits and pieces have been hinted to. This novel was yet another tangled puzzle for Gin to figure out, and it had its fair share of twists and turns. As always, I was glued to my kindle as I gobbled the story up. The author provides just enough backstory that I don't feel lost as I get back into this wonderfully gritty world. Salina was definitely an interestingly evil character, and I liked learning more about her water elemental powers. I think one of my favorite parts of this series is how the author introduces us to at least one new elemental power per novel, and after seven novels they feel almost real because of all that I have learned about them. The secondary characters are what really makes this series. As much as I love rough and tough Gin, Finn and Sophia may be my favorite characters. As far as the cover, I'm not sure if I like the stepback idea as much as everyone else. The white does stand out very well on my bookcase. Plus, the image under the stepback fits in with the rest of the series. I think it just boils down to the fact that I don't really like change. <br />
<br />
<strong>Plot:</strong> 4.5 Stars<br />
<strong>Pace:</strong> 4.5 Stars<br />
<strong>Characters:</strong> 4.5 Stars<br />
<strong>Cover:</strong> 4 Stars<br />
<strong>Overall:</strong> 4.5 Stars<br />
<br />
Disclosure: I received an eARC for review from the author.Sara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-8370115368016982392012-10-15T18:04:00.001-04:002012-10-15T18:04:11.188-04:00Mini-Review: Blood and Silver by James R. Tuck<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1XM55f32CM8/UHyEDOjTjJI/AAAAAAAAD4M/fK9ii7oAq5E/s1600/bloodsilver.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="195" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1XM55f32CM8/UHyEDOjTjJI/AAAAAAAAD4M/fK9ii7oAq5E/s320/bloodsilver.jpg" /></a></div><strong>Title:</strong> Blood and Silver<br />
<strong>Author:</strong> James R. Tuck<br />
<strong>Series:</strong> Deacon Chalk, Occult Bounty Hunter #2<br />
<strong>Publisher:</strong> Kensington<br />
<strong>Genre:</strong> Urban Fantasy<br />
<strong>Release Date:</strong> 08/07/12<br />
<strong>Reviewed by:</strong> Sara<br />
<strong>Buy the Book:</strong> <br />
<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Blood-Silver-James-Tuck/9780758271488?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce"><img src="http://affiliates.bookdepository.com/accounts/default1/banners/BuyFrom_purple_delivery.jpg" alt="buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery" title="buy the book from The Book Depository, free delivery" width="191" height="44" /></a><img style="border:0" src="http://affiliates.bookdepository.com/scripts/imp.php?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce" width="1" height="1" alt="" /><br />
<strong>Summary:</strong><br />
<blockquote><em>Deacon Chalk normally has no trouble telling innocent victims from real monsters. So protecting an abused pregnant were-dog is a no-brainer... until a vicious lycanthrope leader and his brotherhood target Deacon, other shape-shifters, and any humans in their way. Suddenly, Deacon is outnumbered, outgunned, and unsure who -- or what -- to trust. The only edge he has left is a weapon hungry for his soul and his most savage impulses. And using it will exact a price even this hell-raising hunter fears to pay...</em></blockquote><br />
<strong>Mini-Review:</strong> This installment in the Deacon Chalk, Occult Bounty Hunter series was just as strong as the first. I really enjoyed the twists and turns, as Deacon once again went in guns blazing. There was a shocking were-creature near the end that left me speechless. It was totally awesome and believeable. I won't give anything away, but you must read this book for that awesome shifter alone! Once again, the author gave us a fast-paced book that I could not put down. The novel kept me on the edge of my seat, eagerly awaiting what would happen next. It never felt rushed, and it also never slowed down. I really enjoyed watching Deacon grow as a person throughout this novel, and I hope the next installent continues in the same direction. The cast of secondary characters in this series are realistic and strong, and really bring a lot to the stories. The oranges and reds of the cover fit this novel perfectly, and the cover model looks very kick-ass. Whoever chose the cover model, definitely channeled Deacon and his toughness. <br />
<br />
<strong>Plot:</strong> 4.5 Stars<br />
<strong>Pace:</strong> 4.5 Stars<br />
<strong>Characters:</strong> 4.5 Stars<br />
<strong>Cover:</strong> 4.5 Stars<br />
<strong>Overall:</strong> 4.5 Stars<br />
<br />
Disclosure: I received an ARC for review from the publisher via the author.Sara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-61359705782848471992012-10-13T22:48:00.001-04:002012-10-13T22:49:48.492-04:00Stacking the Shelves (20)Thanks to Tynga at <a href="http://www.tyngasreviews.com/">Tynga's Reviews</a> for hosting Stacking the Shelves and making this awesome graphic!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SfN9IrVyxGE/T5w6TWuA8XI/AAAAAAAACl8/6W6RJbBpcK4/s1600/STSmall_thumb%255B2%255D.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="225" width="397" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SfN9IrVyxGE/T5w6TWuA8XI/AAAAAAAACl8/6W6RJbBpcK4/s400/STSmall_thumb%255B2%255D.png" /></a></div><blockquote>Stacking The Shelves is all about the books we are adding to our shelves each week, sharing with you our excitement for our newest titles and maybe have you discover a new book in the process! --Tynga</blockquote><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3aiit5fBn50/UHoneE_GL4I/AAAAAAAAD2g/Shw3YCetx7E/s1600/001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3aiit5fBn50/UHoneE_GL4I/AAAAAAAAD2g/Shw3YCetx7E/s320/001.jpg" /></a></div><em><strong>Review:</strong></em><br />
<strong>The Weird Girls</strong> by Cecy Robson<br />
<em>Thanks to Cecy and Signet Eclipse for binding this novella up for readers! It looks so cute.</em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>Won:</strong></em><br />
<strong>Lightning Rod</strong> by Vaughn R. Demont<br />
<em>I won an e-copy of this novel from the author via twitter. I really enjoyed Coyote's Creed, and can't wait to read this title.</em><br />
<br />
<em><strong>Bought:</strong></em><br />
<strong>Unwind</strong> by Neal Shusterman [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Unwind-Neal-Shusterman/9781416912057?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Unwholly</strong> by Neal Shusterman [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Unwholly-Neal-Shusterman/9781442423664?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>The Undead in My Bed</strong> by Katie MacAlister, Molly Harper & Jessica Sims [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Undead-My-Bed-Katie-MacAlister/9781451656794?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<em>Neal Shusterman did a signing at a local B&N last Sunday. It was a great event. His flight was delayed and he was a tiny bit late, so the publisher overnighted posters for him to sign and paid for everyone to get a drink. I was originally only going to purchase Unwind, but ended up grabbing Unwholly because the excerpts and his inspiration really intrigued me. I also had to grab the anthology because my review of Jessica Sims' Beauty Dates the Beast was quoted! It's not pictured because it's currently on its way to Christen so that she can read it and show everyone.</em><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I6WRxlx8OSA/UHonpLA3hbI/AAAAAAAAD2s/9sUcMc9SkKw/s1600/003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I6WRxlx8OSA/UHonpLA3hbI/AAAAAAAAD2s/9sUcMc9SkKw/s320/003.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<em><strong>Kindle:</strong></em><br />
<strong>Dragon Actually</strong> by G.A. Aiken [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Dragon-Actually-Aiken/9781420103731?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>The Mysterious Madam Morpho</strong> by Delilah S. Dawson <br />
<strong>Redemption</strong> by Susannah Sandlin [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Redemption-Susannah-Sandlin/9781612183541?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<em>Grabbed these titles because of the prices. When I purchased them they were $1.00, $0.99, and $1.99 respectively, and may not still be those prices. And if you're interested in The Mysterious Madam Morpho, I'm currently giving away two copies. The link is up at the top of the page.</em><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YiX4IuCn8Bc/UHon2jsCfXI/AAAAAAAAD24/QIaYSwCtKfg/s1600/002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YiX4IuCn8Bc/UHon2jsCfXI/AAAAAAAAD24/QIaYSwCtKfg/s320/002.jpg" /></a></div><em><strong>Library:</strong></em><br />
<strong>The Diviners</strong> by Libba Bray [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Diviners-Libba-Bray/9780316126113?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Something Strange and Deadly</strong> by Susan Dennard [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Something-Strange-Deadly-Susan-Dennard/9780062083265?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>Dangerous Boy</strong> by Mandy Hubbard [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Dangerous-Boy-Mandy-Hubbard/9781595145116?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>The Raven Boys</strong> by Maggie Stiefvater [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Raven-Boys-Maggie-Stiefvater/9780545424929?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>The Unnaturalists</strong> by Tiffany Trent [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Unnaturalists-Tiffany-Trent/9781442422063?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<strong>The Curiosities</strong> by Maggie Stiefvater, Tessa Gratton & Brenna Yovanoff [<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Curiosities-Maggie-Stiefvater/9780761375272?a_aid=sara_UFblog&a_bid=72871fce">Buy Now</a>]<br />
<em>Another crazy haul from the library. I'm gonna be sad when I move or get cut off (after this year, they will no longer have the awesome free card I use as a resident of a different county), whichever happens first. I was waiting for my birthday to purchase most of these. I may still pick up keeper copies if I enjoy them, but I was excited to check them out now before my birthday.</em>Sara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6495437543317089780.post-61315839999057844202012-10-08T08:00:00.000-04:002012-10-08T08:00:10.304-04:00Guest Blog + Giveaway: Merrie Destefano Today, I would like to welcome Merrie Destefano to Sara's Urban Fantasy Blog. Her latest book, <em>Fathom</em>, released on October 1st. She is here today to talk about how speculative fiction is categorized, and if you stick around until the end, there's a giveaway. <br />
<br />
<hr><br />
Is it Paranormal or Is it Fantasy?<br />
By Merrie Destefano<br />
<br />
<br />
“What genre is this book?” <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tjv_CBoFpOo/UHIdLzg9opI/AAAAAAAAD0w/a5-YqoTV-8s/s1600/Merrie%2BDestefano.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:right; float:right; margin-left:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="165" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tjv_CBoFpOo/UHIdLzg9opI/AAAAAAAAD0w/a5-YqoTV-8s/s200/Merrie%2BDestefano.jpg" /></a></div><br />
This is a question that authors ask themselves frequently while writing. Agents ask it when considering representation. Editors ask it when acquiring. Marketing departments ask it while trying to promote the book. Bookstore staff members ask it when trying to categorize the book and when speaking to customers. Readers ask it before buying the book and when telling their friends about the book.<br />
<br />
Phew.<br />
<br />
The problem is, when you’re writing speculative fiction, all the boundaries seem to blur until you feel like you’re cross-eyed. To give you a brief example, when I wrote my first novel, <em>Afterlife</em>, I saw it as science fiction. When my editor acquired it, however, she asked for a few changes -- not many -- and the book was then marketed as an urban fantasy. To me, that book will always be sci-fi. But to many readers, it’s urban fantasy.<br />
<br />
My current novel, <em>Fathom</em>, probably falls into the category of paranormal romance. But to me, it’s fantasy. I never saw the paranormal romance elements when I was writing the book. They’re probably there, but to me it was like a math equation:<br />
<br />
Overarching coming of age theme + legendary creatures + mythological elements = FANTASY.<br />
<br />
But then, I’m just the writer. Writers don’t usually get to decide what category their novels fall into. They just write the best book they can and try not to worry about things like markets or categories or the dreaded Latest Hot Topic.<br />
<br />
So, just for fun, I put together a little Cheat Sheet for helping to define what category the book you’re currently reading might fall into. Now, these are just suggestions, not hard, fast rules. Here goes...<br />
<br />
CATEGORIES OVERVIEW:<br />
<br />
FANTASY: May take place in another world and often contains magic or supernatural elements. Does not contain scientific themes (otherwise, it would be science fiction.) Usually has a battle of good versus evil. May or may not have romance.<br />
Books: The Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, Game of Thrones.<br />
<br />
HORROR: Can contains supernatural themes; meant to scare, startle or terrify. Sometimes rooted in folklore. May have vampires, werewolves, etc. Also may have a gothic tone. Sometimes written very beautifully, despite horrific subject matter.<br />
Books: The Shining, Dracula, The Haunting.<br />
<br />
PARANORMAL ROMANCE: May blend elements of science fiction, fantasy and horror. Takes place in our world, but often has otherworldly creatures, like vampires, ghosts, shape shifters, etc. A sub-category of fantasy and/or a sub-category of romance that contains experiences outside the normal or supernatural aspects.<br />
Books: Highlander, Twilight, The Vampire Diaries.<br />
<br />
URBAN FANTASY: Usually has a contemporary urban setting -- although the urban setting can be in another time period. Set in our world, which is often populated by otherworldly creatures or immortals. May or may not have romance. Is usually written in first person, and is often graphic, gritty and/or noir in tone. Considered a sub-genre of fantasy.<br />
Books: Small Favor, Moon Called, Dead Until Dark. <br />
<br />
SIMPLIFIED VERSION:<br />
FANTASY: The creature lives in another world and is beautiful.<br />
HORROR: The creature is scary and wants to kill you.<br />
PARANORMAL ROMANCE: The creature is a little scary, but wants to kiss you.<br />
URBAN FANTASY: The creature is horrid, and you need to hunt/kill/destroy it.<br />
<br />
SUPER SIMPLIFIED VERSION:<br />
FANTASY: Creature—yay!<br />
HORROR: Creature—boo!<br />
PARANORMAL ROMANCE: Creature—smooch!<br />
URBAN FANTASY: Creature—thwack!<br />
<br />
So, just out of curiosity, what are you reading right now and what category does it fall into? I’ll answer first: I’m currently reading Ashes by Ilsa J. Bick and the category is horror. <br />
<br />
<hr><br />
Thanks Merrie! I really enjoyed the super simplified version. And for those wondering, I'm currently reading <em>The Undead in My Bed</em> by Katie MacAlister, Molly Harper, and Jessica Sims and the category is paranormal romance. <br />
<br />
Merrie has generously donated two (2) ebook copies of <em>Fathom</em> to two lucky readers. Just answer the question asked at the end of the guest blog and leave a valid e-mail address. The giveaway is open to the US only and will end on Thursday 10/18 at midnight (winners announced Friday 10/19). <br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mPkBYH_Pyco/UHIdbHzQ7vI/AAAAAAAAD08/VhC5_rpUzJ8/s1600/fathom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear:left; float:left;margin-right:1em; margin-bottom:1em"><img border="0" height="320" width="220" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mPkBYH_Pyco/UHIdbHzQ7vI/AAAAAAAAD08/VhC5_rpUzJ8/s320/fathom.jpg" /></a></div><strong>Title:</strong> Fathom<br />
<strong>Author:</strong> Merrie Destefano<br />
<strong>Summary:</strong><br />
<blockquote><strong>Everything is changing...</strong><br />
<br />
Turning sixteen can be hell, especially if everyone in town thinks your mother killed herself and your sister. All Kira Callahan wants to do is swim, hang out with her best friend, Sean, and ignore the kids who torment her at school. That is, until one day when she gets invited to a party. For three minutes her life is wonderful -- she even kisses Sean. Then somebody spikes her drink and some girls from out of town lure her into the ocean and hold her underwater. <br />
<br />
Kira soon discovers that the group of wild teenagers who have come to visit Crescent Moon Bay are not as innocent as they seem. In fact, nothing is as it seems -- not the mysterious deaths of her sister or her mother, not her heritage, not even her best friend. And everything seems to hinge on the ancient Celtic legends that her mother used to tell her as a child.</blockquote><br />
About Merrie Destefano:<br />
With twenty years’ experience in publishing, Merrie Destefano left a 9-to-5 desk job as the editor of <em>Victorian Homes</em> magazine to become a full-time novelist. Her first two novels, <em>Afterlife: The Resurrection Chronicles</em> and <em>Feast: Harvest of Dreams</em> were published by HarperVoyager. Fathom is both her first YA novel and her first indie published novel. When not writing, she loves to camp in the mountains, walk on the beach, watch old movies and listen to alternative music -- although rarely all at the same time. Born in the Midwest, she now lives in Southern California with her husband, their two German shepherds and a Siamese cat. <br />
<br />
[<a href="http://www.merriedestefano.com/fathom.html">Fathom excerpt</a>][<a href="http://www.merriedestefano.com/">Author website</a>][<a href="http://merrie-destefano.blogspot.com/">Author blog</a>][<a href="http://twitter.com/MerrieDestefano">Twitter</a>][<a href="http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1205132688">Facebook</a>]Sara Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16147138097401395084noreply@blogger.com6