My Ever Expanding Library

Moving Out!

2011-12-05T13:38:00.000-05:00

That's right folks! My Ever Expanding Library is moving and changing to something bigger and better over at WordPress. Mel from He Followed Me Home...Can I Keep Him? and myself have decided to join forces. To this end, we have created The Novel Nation, a site we hope will be a great blend of our reading tastes, with awesome new content and more!

Make sure you stop on by to see what we have cooking!

Thank you for everyone's support at My Ever Expanding Library. I look forward to more book chats in the future, at the new home base :)

I Survived NaNoWriMo....and lived to tell the tale!

2011-11-30T09:52:00.000-05:00

So, my poor little blog has gone unattended for the last month, but it was for a good reason. I'm happy to report that I struggled, I drank tea like mad, I shed tears of 12 font print, and as a result, I got this:

I thought I would take a moment to share what I learned throughout this last grueling month with any of you out there that are considering joining in for NaNoWriMo next year:

1- Getting over your own fears is the biggest obstacle. It's great to have an idea in mind but overwhelming when it comes to putting that idea into words. The things is, when you sit down and actually start to type (or hand write, if you want to go old school), there are times when the words just flow right out. It is an awesome feeling. (There are also days that you look at your work, have no clue where to go next, and wonder wtf to do, but once you get beyond those, it's a total rush to see your 'novel' come to fruition.)
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Blog update

2011-10-31T16:51:00.000-04:00

I've decided to put this up publicly and let you all know what I'll be up to for the next month. That's right, I'm NaNoWriMo'ing! And now that I've told you all, I can't possibly back out at the last minute...which would be right now. Anyway, I have a bunch of reviews that I hope to have up shortly but if you don't see me around for a while, this is why. I'm hoping, though, that NaNo will encourage me to write like crazy and I promise to update my progress. Wish me luck!

On Location with Jennifer Hillier

2011-10-19T12:00:00.001-04:00

There's another great event upcoming, if you live in the Greater Toronto Area. Jennifer Hillier, a Canadian author, will be launching her debut novel, Creep, on November 7th. Check out the flyer below for more info:

To read more about Jennifer's work, check out her website here. She's already got a second book in the works and let me tell you, any book that has Jeffery Deaver telling you to lock your doors, sounds like a win to me! Hope you can make it out to the event.
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Review: The Iron Queen by Julie Kagawa

2011-10-19T09:00:00.002-04:00

My name is Meghan Chase.

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

This time, there will be no turning back.

Available at Amazon, Book Depository, Chapters, Harlequin

I'd been working on this series as part of a book club read on Goodreads and I will admit that each book gradually made the entire series grow on me. (My reviews of The Iron King, Winter's Passage and The Iron Daughter are linked here.) The idea of Iron Fairies and how they came about is a very cool concept, but it's the characters and their situations/battles that have steadily improved for me.

Going into The Iron Queen, it was initially with the thought that it would be the end of the series, then, of course, with the announcement of The Iron Knight coming out, it was uncertain whether much closure would come about. Truly, I had certain formulaic expectations of how this book would end. And, wow, I did not expect things to go the way they did (I even said this out loud as I was reading it.) Kudos to Julie Kagawa for surprising me (and going against the grain!)
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Review: Triangles by Ellen Hopkins

2011-10-18T09:00:00.002-04:00

In this emotionally powerful novel, three women face the age-old midlife question: If I’m halfway to death, is this all I’ve got to show for it? Holly, filled with regret for being a stay-at-home mom, sheds sixty pounds and loses herself in the world of extramarital sex. Andrea, a single mom and avowed celibate, watches her friend Holly’s meltdown with a mixture of concern and contempt. Holly is throwing away what Andrea has spent her whole life searching for—a committed relationship with a decent guy. So what if Andrea picks up Holly’s castaway husband? Then there’s Marissa. She has more than her fair share of challenges—a gay teenage son, a terminally ill daughter, and a husband who buries himself in his work rather than face the facts. As one woman’s marriage unravels, another one’s rekindles. As one woman’s family comes apart at the seams, another’s is reconfigured into something bigger and better. In this story of connections and disconnections, one woman’s up is another one’s down, and all three of them will learn the meaning of friendship, betrayal, and forgiveness before it is through.

Available from Amazon, Book Depository, Chapters, Simon and Schuster Canada

When starting to discuss Ellen Hopkins, the first thought is about her writing style. While it is not new to the world at large, it was a new reading experience for me. Sure, it's in a poetic form, but she tells a narrative tale, even incorporating titles into the main stream of the story, giving the impression (and rightfully so) that constant care has been put into every line; every page.

One particular font is used in the telling of each woman's part until the point of view is about to change. At this precipice between character POV's, there would be a breakdown of sorts. Hopkins moves into a more abstract thought to sum up what she'd just written. I found this served an effective method to withdraw the reader, temporarily, from the intense emotions of each "chapter"; a carefully placed pause to allow the reader time to regroup. And, visually, with each turn of the page, you never knew what the next one would look like. This made for an artful, fascinating reading adventure.

Format and style aside, I was emotionally invested in the story from the very beginning, with her portrayal of a disgruntled wife, a mother with an ailing child, and a lonely single mother. Before page 50, I could barely bring myself to read Marissa's story (the mother with the sick child). The anticipation alone of what might happen in each of her "chapters" was enough to reduce me to tears. Considering the relatively small number of words used to this point, they were chosen and positioned so well as to offer the reader maximum impact....eliciting full on waterworks.
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Flash Fiction Friday (1)

2011-10-14T19:00:00.021-04:00

I have seen this post over at My World...in words and pages, with Melissa participating frequently. It sounded like a great idea, so today I give it a shot!

The credit for the original idea goes to Dottie at Tink's Place. A picture is posted on Monday mornings to which you write a story of around 350 words, and link up on her blog on Friday. Simple enough, right? We'll see....

Here's this weeks picture and my virgin offering. Please feel free to critique honestly (but not cruelly ;):

Jonah swung his arm back, hesitating slightly. Then he pitched his arm forward, with all of the force he had, the line swinging out from the fishing rod in a near perfect arc. He was usually a much more patient fisherman, but he had other things on his mind tonight.

He had arrived here a few hours ago, to the place he had found such comfort in as a child. Try as he might, he couldn’t wait until morning to get out on the water. The night was peaceful with only the call of the birds to detract from a feeling of total remoteness. The water was still; smooth like a sheet of perfectly made glass. What Jonah couldn’t figure out was why none of this was settling his sense of foreboding. So here he sat, hoping his favourite method of meditation would do the trick. Maybe he'd find a reasonable explanation to everything that was going on around him besides the obvious "you're losing your mind".
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Review: The Lady of the Rivers by Philippa Gregory

2011-10-14T12:07:00.004-04:00

Jacquetta, daughter of the Count of Luxembourg and kinswoman to half the royalty of Europe, was married to the great Englishman John, Duke of Bedford, uncle to Henry VI. Widowed at the age of nineteen she took the extraordinary risk of marrying a gentleman of her house-hold for love, and then carved out a life for herself as Queen Margaret of Anjou's close friend and a Lancaster supporter - until the day that her daughter Elizabeth Woodville fell in love and married the rival king Edward IV. Of all the little-known but important women of the period, her dramatic story is the most neglected. With her links to Melusina, and to the founder of the house of Luxembourg, together with her reputation for making magic, she is the most haunting of heroines.

Available from Amazon, Book Depository, Chapters, Simon and Schuster Canada

It's no secret I'm a big fan of Philippa Gregory's, though I'm still working on reading her backlist of books. The Lady of the Rivers represented something new for me: a more complete look at a series (in this case, The Cousins's War).

Ms. Gregory is known for her portrayal of historical women, giving life to otherwise one dimensional historical facts. This is very much the case with Jacquetta. What is interesting though, is that all of the characters involved in the Cousins' War are given this same opportunity and, as such, you feel empathy for them all. But the stories throughout this time period are about picking sides. Ms. Gregory gives equal attention to each woman, making it hard to do that. Fortunately, which ever side we would choose today has little relevance to history.
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Review: Betsy Wickwire's Dirty Secret by Vicki Grant

2011-10-06T09:00:00.021-04:00

Betsy’s life is officially over: Dumped by her boyfriend, betrayed by her best friend . . . how is she ever going to show her face again?

Determined to avoid everyone and everything from her previous life, Betsy stumbles into an unusual café and an even more unusual girl. Dolores Morris—a mouthy, green-haired outsider Betsy can’t quite remember from school—talks her into starting a cleaning service. Before she knows it, Betsy is down on her knees, dressed like a dust bunny, scrubbing strangers’ toilets.

It’s a long way for the most popular girl in school to have fallen. But Betsy finds comfort in the wine bottles and prescriptions and other dirty secrets she finds hidden in her clients’ homes. She also finds love with a client’s son, friendship with Dolores and a liberated sense of herself. Her new life soon falls apart, though, when valuables begin to go missing from some of the homes she and Dolores have been cleaning. Betsy discovers the hard way that not all dirty secrets can just be swept under the rug.

Available from Chapters, HarperCollins Canada,

Betsy Wickwire's story is a completely relatable one: having your heart broken in such an overwhelming manner has happened a million times over. And Betsy's ensuing desire to hide herself from the world....well,who hasn't wanted to do that at one time or another? It's these initial reactions to Vicki Grant's Betsy Wickwire's Dirty Secret that had me hooked..
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Review: Circle of Fire by Michelle Zink

2011-10-04T15:45:00.003-04:00

With time dwindling but her will to end the Prophecy stronger than ever, Lia sets out on a journey to find the remaining keys, locate the missing pages of the Prophecy, and convince her sister Alice to help--or risk her life trying. Lia has her beloved Dimitri by her side, but Alice has James, the man who once loved her sister--and maybe still does. James doesn't know the truth about either sister, or the prophecy that divides them. And Alice intends to keep it that way.

There are some secrets sisters aren't meant to share. Because when they do, it destroys them. This stunning conclusion to Michelle Zink's Prophecy of the Sisters trilogy will make saying good-bye bittersweet for readers.

Available at Amazon, Book Depository, Chapters, HBG Canada, Author's Website

Circle of Fire is the last book in the Prophecy of the Sisters Trilogy, and it was something I had long been waiting for. It is a strange thing though, when you have been anticipating a book like this for so long but when you begin to read, the realization hits that this is truly the end. Such was the case as I read through this book. Initially, I read at such a slow pace, I thought I would never finish! I couldn't keep it up for long, as I really needed to see how things would play out between Lia and Alice.

Part of my enjoyment with this series stemmed from familiar elements that I love built right into the story (standing stones, mystical worlds, etc.). There were also new places, new wonders to be discovered this time around. In Circle of Fire, we get to travel to Ireland, to a series of underground caverns (cairns) and see the ingenuity of people from long, long ago. I've said it before, I love learning about "real" things from fictional books. Thank you, Michelle Zink, for furthering my education!
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Review: The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer by Michelle Hodkin

2011-09-27T11:00:00.004-04:00

Mara Dyer doesn't think life can get any stranger than waking up in a hospital with no memory of how she got there.

It can.

She believes there must be more to the accident she can't remember that killed her friends and left her mysteriously unharmed.

There is.

She doesn't believe that after everything she's been through, she can fall in love.

She's wrong.

I'm not sure where to start talking about this book. You see, I started reading it on Friday night last week and reached 1/3 of the way through very quickly. At that point, I was still questioning whether I liked the story or not. Weird, right, that I wouldn't know one way or the other? Well, it's true.

By Saturday, when I delved into it again, I was better able to understand what it was that had me initially confused then, ultimately, enamored with Mara Dyer and Michelle Hodkin. The author has you in the present, then in the past. She has you in Mara's head, which is a touchy area considering her mental faculties are seriously in question. You never know what is real and what is imagined. It is this back and forth feel that keeps you mesmerized, waiting for final clarification of what exactly is happening to this poor, messed up girl. (And did I mention I finished this 450 page book on Saturday?)
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Could you date a man with wings?

2011-09-24T13:35:00.001-04:00

It's almost time for the release of the much anticipated third book featuring Nora and Patch, Silence by Becca Fitzpatrick. As the date draws closer, Simon and Schuster Canada has cooked up a few features to tide us over till then (including a link below to an awesome contest).

Nora and Patch have had a rocky go of things through the last two books, and in Silence we get to see how/if it will work out for them. Patch has the bad boy image down pat but he's also an angel, so there's a little (a lot of?) good in him too. Nora has touched the scars where his wings were attached, and if you look at the countdown widget to the right, you'll see a stunning black and white image of Patch in his full feathered regalia (the feathers do not deter from previously mentioned bad boy-ness, right?). So my big questions is this: Could you date a man with wings? The first step to finding out is heading over to the Facebook app here, uploading a picture of yourself, and seeing how great you look together :)

Hopefully, the contest, app, and countdown widget will help to while away the hours until more Patch is available to us all....

Sneak Peek! The Iron Knight is coming soon....

2011-09-22T12:55:00.001-04:00

I've been reading the Iron Fey books faithfully this year and with the ending to The Iron Queen still fresh in mind, I'm very anxious to read The Iron Knight! So, it gives me great pleasure to be able to share a wee clip on the book trailer here on my site (thanks to Larissa at Harlequin for allowing me to be part of this exclusive group!)

Without further ado, check it out here:

BBAW Interview Swap featuring Janicu's Book Blog

2011-09-13T09:50:00.002-04:00

I want to give a big welcome to Janice, my BBAW interview swap partner. Janice and I struggled a bit over the questions to ask, striving for a certain level of originality/creativity, but I think what we came up with gives a great look at our blogs, plus a little bit about ourselves. So, without further ado, I present the blogger also known as Janicu:

1. Tell us about yourself and your blog.

Hello. I'm Janice, although I go by Janicu on my blog (pronounced Janice-oo). My blog is Janicu's Book Blog, although I'm seriously considering renaming it. I live in Westchester, NY with my husband and our naughty cat. I started my blog back in 2007. It all started because I had a new years resolution to read 100 books, and since I have an awful memory, I wanted to keep track of the books I read. I mostly review speculative fiction, often with a romantic slant (I love happy endings), but I also review young adult and romance too (my favorites of these are the contemporaries).

I usually work on my blog in my spare time (end of the day, weekends). Probably in a given week I can spend 10-20 hours reading and working on the blog. Even when it's a couple of reviews, that's a lot of time, but I enjoy it. It gets kind of cathartic to have my thoughts on a book worked out and posted, and I always have that mental list of books I need to write a review for. I don't really do memes, but that's more because I am not sure I could keep doing it consistently than because of anything against them. I really, really suck at book challenges and have yet to complete even one. On the other hand, I love readathons. :) The best thing of course is the other people. I am sure everyone says this, but it's true. Meeting other book bloggers (or just plain book nerds - recognizable because they are excited to see you holding a book they liked), it's like Meeting Your People.

Review: A Midnight Dance by Lila DiPasqua

2011-09-09T08:30:00.001-04:00

Inspired by the tale of Cinderella, Lila DiPasqua weaves a steamy historical romance that offers a glass slipper, a dangerous deception, and an impoverished beauty determined to find her handsome prince…and make him pay.

Born into wealth, Sabine Laurent and her twin sister lived a life of luxury, their father’s prestigious theater frequented by royalty and aristocracy alike. And Sabine dreamed of her own prince charming—the devastatingly handsome Jules de Moutier.

That was before the loss of her sister and her family’s fall from grace—a disaster Sabine blames on the Moutier family. Now, with her father’s death, she’s inherited his sizable debt and the responsibility of caring for his spoiled long-time mistress and her two wastrel daughters. But with the help of Sabine’s eccentric friends—the balance of her father’s acting troupe—she plans to get very close to her old infatuation, seduce the rake—and make away with a fortune.

Resisting Jules’s skillful mouth and tantalizing touch is not as easy as Sabine supposed. And soon she must decide whether her desire for vengeance is greater than her desire for her one and only prince…

Available at Amazon, Book Depository, Chapters

I had heard great things about Lila DiPasqua's previous books: short stories based on fairy tales with a definite adult twist. So, when I heard about her latest release, I jumped at the chance to review it. It was also an added bonus to discover that she's a Canadian author; I really enjoy featuring "local" talent on my blog.

With the story being based on Cinderella, you know there will be a rags-to-riches feel about it. This story kind of went in reverse, with Sabine on the verge of losing everything dear to her. While Ms. DiPasqua kept many of the familiar elements of the original story within her version, I really enjoyed the spin she put on things like the glass slipper, the ugly stepsisters, etc. There were times that I almost missed the associations, only to think back and see how skillfully the author had inserted them.
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Review: Bloodlines by Richelle Mead

2011-09-02T12:36:00.003-04:00

The first book in Richelle Mead's brand-new teen fiction series - set in the same world as Vampire Academy.

When alchemist Sydney is ordered into hiding to protect the life of Moroi princess Jill Dragomir, the last place she expects to be sent is a human private school in Palm Springs, California. But at their new school, the drama is only just beginning.

Populated with new faces as well as familiar ones, Bloodlines explores all the friendship, romance, battles and betrayals that made the #1 New York Times bestselling Vampire Academy series so addictive - this time in a part-vampire, part-human setting where the stakes are even higher and everyone's out for blood.

I want to preface my review with a little background information. I have heard great things about the Vampire Academy series, so much so that I purchased all the books. But, I haven't read them yet. I went into reading Bloodlines, knowing that it was somehow related to the former series, but not knowing how much I would be missing out on because I haven't read them. Mel at He Followed Me Home recommended that I Wiki the series to get some of the details to help me with reading this. Of course, I didn't (she loves telling me "I told you so" when I don't listen to her advice ;). So, I read this book with no prior knowledge of the characters or Richelle Mead's world. I was hoping this would serve as an objective way of reading, to see if it would stand up to the test of a "stand alone" novel.

With the above disclaimer in mind, I have to say, I really enjoyed this book. There was enough world information to make the story flow smoothly and character description to sort of give a heads up on what had happened up till now. I liked that it features Sydney Sage, an alchemist, as the main character. It's funny, alchemists have been popping up in several of my recent reads, in one capacity or another. This makes me wonder if alchemy is the next big thing, as opposed to the formerly popular vampire/werewolf/fairy themes? (Though Bloodlines does contain vampires with the alchemists working to prevent their exposure to the unknowing humans.) Alchemy, I think, has a flexible quality about it, giving a writer lots of room to work with chemistry, and not just the idea of changing lead into gold.
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Interview with Tish Cohen, author of "Switch"

2011-08-16T09:00:00.001-04:00

A little while ago, I had the pleasure of reading and reviewing Switch by Tish Cohen (you can read my review here). Ironically, the same week I finished reading the book, I ran into Tish at a book launch for Lesley Livingston...ok, I'll stop with the shameless name dropping now :) I stopped Tish while she was (probably) on her way to the Ladies' room, but she was gracious enough to chat with me for a little while. (I still find it a bit overwhelming how book blogging has started to make me feel a little less fan girlie ...though not by too much :-p )

In the meantime, I had interview questions out there in cyber space about Tish and her latest book. I have the answers here, so without any further preamble, please help me welcome Ms. Cohen today:

(Note: Switch released here in Canada on May 9th but will be releasing next week in other countries).

Jackie - Can you tell the readers a little of what we'll find in the pages of Switch?

Tish - Switch is all about learning to recognize what, in our lives, is good and valuable. Andrea Birch is having a rough time being the only biological daughter of parents who take in many foster children. Because Andrea's parents view her own troubles are seen as minor in comparison to those of her foster siblings, she wishes she could switch lives with a girl she perceives as much luckier.

J - On your website, you tell a poignant tale of the girl that inspired parts on Inside Out Girl. Where did you find inspiration for the characters in Switch?

T- I read an article in London's Daily Mail about a woman who lived a life much like Andrea's--she grew up with 35 foster siblings. She inspired the character of Andrea.

J - From The Prince and the Pauper to Freaky Friday, the idea of switching lives seems a recurring theme. Why do you think this notion appeals to so many people?

2nd Blogoversary Celebration - Day 5 (and giveaway!)

2011-08-12T09:17:00.000-04:00

Well, I bailed on the Day 4 celebrations yesterday. I was too busy schmoozing with Penguin Canada the night before which left me no time to prep. But, all is not lost! I will just incorporate my idea for that post into this, my final day to celebrate 2 great blogging years.

Yesterday, I wanted to offer my own Top 5 list. All of the previous days, I had great recommendations from some of my best blogging buddies. Without a doubt, most of those books (if not all) will be going on to my TBR list very soon. What I want to share are the Top 5 books I have on my shelves that I really want to read, but haven't yet had the chance to. Without further ado, here are my picks:

2nd Blogoversary Celebration - Day 3

2011-08-10T11:03:00.000-04:00

It's day 3 of my anniversary celebration, and I have one last guest post to share. Today, Mel from He Followed Me Home has agreed to share her Top 5 YA books that I really should read (and she keeps telling me this all the time ;) but haven't yet. Mel, my best friend and book cohort, has been an integral part of my blogging success. I'm not sure I would have made it these last two years without her. It is fantastic to have someone to bounce ideas off of, to share the milestones, and to enjoy the love of reading overall. (Btw, Mel is still celebrating her 2nd blogoversary with an awesome giveaway here!) Thanks Mel! And take it away:

Congratulations on two blogging years Jackie!!! You are my go to person for the fun, quirky reads (and maybe now romance?) but you know I’m a bigger sucker for YA so here are my five YA recommendations for you:

2nd Blogoversary Celebration - Day 2

2011-08-09T10:47:00.005-04:00

Welcome to day 2 of the week long celebration for my 2nd year blogging anniversary! I've gathered a few of my book loving friends this week to stop by and share with me their must reads...you know, the ones they are always telling me about but I just haven't been able to squeeze in yet?! Today, Melissa from My World...in words and pages is here. Melissa and I have worked on a few book club reads together this year and we're always chatting about our mutual lack of time to read, lol. Today, she's going to share her version of the 5 Urban Fantasy reads I should read (when I finally have the time):

Thank you for inviting me over to chat about Urban Fantasy must reads. :) I love sharing books with friends, and learning about so many new ones too! I worked on coming up with ONLY 5 Urban Fantasy reads, I think would be wonderful reads for you. And boy was this a tough one. There are so many great books out there. You have read many great sounding ones (which have been added to my TBR pile or WANT list) and there are so many great ones out there that neither of us have touched on yet. But, only 5 is a hard number. But I narrowed it down as best I could. :)
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2nd Blogoversary celebration!

2011-08-08T13:10:00.000-04:00

This week marks two years here at My Ever Expanding Library! I'm very thrilled to actually be celebrating this year (cause I let it just slide on by last year.) I've cooked up some guest posts, an unveiling of a new blog layout later in the week, and ~~maybe~~ definitely a giveaway to come.... ;) So, stick around this week and see what's in store!

Two years is pretty momentous, considering there is actually a syndrome for those who don't last called "blogger burnout" (it sounds serious but it is not fatal by any means ;). It can be a lot of pressure at times, but I think the fun totally outweighs that. These last two years, though, have made me realize how much I've been missing in the reading world. To that effect, I've asked a few of my favourite book bloggers to share with me some books that they think I should read but just haven't been able to fit in (yet).

Today's guest is Caroline from The Secret HEA Society and one of my co-bloggers at The Book Lovers Inc. Caro has been significantly influential in some of my favourite reads over the last little while, so I totally trust her recommendations now. Here are her picks for the Top 5 HEA's that I really need to get to. Take it away, Caro!:

In My Mailbox - July 25 - August 7, 2011

2011-08-07T22:37:00.000-04:00

I missed last week's IMM so I thought I'd post my books received over the last two weeks. Once again, I have lots to show. Now, I just really need the time to read them all. As always, IMM is hosted by The Story Siren, who's site can be reached by clicking on the image.

Here's what I've added to my reading list:

Cleopatra's Moon by Vicky Alvear Shecter

Dark Souls by Paula Morris

Nicole Reviews: Not Dead and Not For Sale: The Earthling Papers- A Memoir by Scott Weiland with David Ritz

2011-08-04T10:32:00.002-04:00

Click here for the book description.

Available at Amazon, Book Depository, Chapters, Simon and Schuster Canada

Scott Weiland is my most favourite musical artist of all time. When I found his book sitting on the biography table at Chapters, I knew that I had to have it. My birthday was the next day, so I told my husband that this book was the one thing that I truly wanted. As always, he came through- and now it has become one of the most cherished books on my book case.

To me, Scott and the band STP represent my youth. I was introduced to their music over 15 years ago, and I was an instant fan. Scott's lyrics are honest and deep, and the band's music is out of this world. I fell in love with Scott right away. I find it funny that now, in my thirties I still have my teenage crush on him. I know that he has made many wrong choices and through the writings of this book, he is the first to admit them.

Scott's memoir is a brief overview. It was a quick, raw and honest look into his life. I wanted to see more depth, but understandably he was reserved, as his life has been plastered in the media. I mean everything has been out on display for years. That is what happens when you are a rock star, and find yourself deep in trouble.

One good reason to look forward to autumn....

2011-08-02T13:35:00.000-04:00

The summer seems to be flying by, but Simon and Schuster Canada has given us a reason to look forward to the fall season: they have a sweeps starting today (Aug. 2, 2011) and running until August 31, 2011. There are 3 prizes packs up for grabs for you and your book club. Check out the great titles featured:

The Distant Hours / Kate Morton
Left Neglected / Lisa Genova
Wildflower Hill / Kimberley Freeman

The Memory Palace / Mira Bartok

The Red Queen / Philippa Gregory

A Mountain of Crumbs / Elena Gorokhova
The Hundred-Foot Journey / Richard C. Morais

Each prize pack includes 10 copies of the book you chose for your book club, with a grand prize including a cheese basket to share at your next meeting! Interested in entering? Just click the image above to be directed to the Sweeps page. Good luck!

(The Fall Sweeps are open to Canadian addresses only!)

Have you ever...(4)

2011-07-26T09:00:00.000-04:00

It was no joke when I named my blog "My Ever Expanding Library". I still have books from when I was ten years old! But the need to 'beautify' my library has been a more recent pursuit for me. I've felt a greater need to have all hardcover books, with matching heights and so on. This has caused a bit of an issue with all of the mismatches from my earlier reading days.

I have all of David Eddings' books. I initially bought them in paperback, when I first discovered them, then as new books were released, I purchased the hardcovers. So, last year I managed to pick up an anthology of The Belgariad series in hardcover that would look better on the shelf beside the rest of the books. Why is it, then, that I can't seem to part with my original paperback copies? Which brings me to ask you, my readers:

Have you ever: Bought a book that you already owned so you could have a set in the same format? (HC/PB) (and still kept the original book!)

Return to sender? My "You've Got Mail" Critique

2011-07-25T11:53:00.001-04:00

Last weekend, I had to chance to have a movie day with my nine year old daughter. We parked ourselves on the couch, for a serious do nothing day, and immediately found one of my favourite romcoms showing on TV: You've Got Mail. It's a weird thing, I own the movie but rarely pull it out to watch. Yet, every time it's on TV, I tune in. I love the Tom Hanks/ Meg Ryan conversations, in person and by e-mail. This time though, the movie showed me a side of Tom Hanks I hadn't really thought him capable of before: a near villain, of the bookish kind!

As a book lover with my finger on at least some of the book business (it's really amazing how much information an amateur can amass through Twitter, book blogging, and so on), watching this movie again from a newer perspective left me torn. How could Kathleen Kelly fall for the guy that made shooting noises, complete with finger guns, at the closing of another independent bookstore?!
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In My Mailbox - July 18-24, 2011

2011-07-24T15:48:00.001-04:00

In My Mailbox, hosted by The Story Siren (click the image to go to her blog), is a great way to feature books we've received over the current week and share them with our readers. Here are the books I received this past week:

Betsy Wickwire's Dirty Secret by Vicki Grant

Moonlight Mile by Dennis Lehane

And an awesome mug from Harper Collins Canada :)

Review: City of Glass by Cassandra Clare

2011-07-21T12:00:00.002-04:00

Click here to read the book description:

Available at Amazon, Book Depository

From the outset, this third installment in The Mortal Instrument series is all action. I was glad to see the faster pace return, as I thought City of Ashes had started a little slower. But coming into this book, there were so many parts of the story that needed resolution, that jumping in head first kept me distracted enough to not dwell on the things that just weren't sitting well with me (Jace & Clary, specifically).

Jace, being the stubborn guy he is, sets off almost immediately to try to protect Clary from the battle that everyone knows is on the horizon. Seriously, though, he should have known better! And while this could have been aggravating for the reader, it helped to guide parts of the tale that became vital as it reached the climax. In saying this, its Clary's equally stubborn side that makes her end up in the lake, in an effort to join her friends in Idris. Though the significance of this accident seemed quite obvious (to me, anyway), it was the character interactions thereafter that allowed for the story to take on many other dimensions.

We meet a lot of new people in City of Glass, as the battle plans are discussed and debated in Idris and this allowed for more intrigue in the story. The different factions that had been previously just barely mentioned, were in full view here, and the in-fighting added to the mounting tensions. Truly, through the three books, you were never sure which of the Shadowhunters were still in allegiance with Valentine and which were honestly opposed to him. In this sense, Clare keeps you on your toes; it is a terrible thing for these young people not knowing exactly who to trust at any given time. Then again, despite his crazy hair and flamboyant wardrobe, I'd trust Magnus any day :)
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Review: Forever by Maggie Stiefvater

2011-07-21T09:00:00.003-04:00

Click here for the book description.

Available at Amazon, Book Depository, Chapters, Scholastic Books Canada

I was nervous going into my reading of Forever, knowing that this would be the last book in the series. First, because it was a series that had grown on me, considerably, between Shiver (book one) and Linger (book two). Secondly, because I don't like endings! But I put on a brave face and dove in.

Having spent so much time away from the books since I had read Linger (a whole year), it was nice, early in the book, to have a reminder of why I've enjoyed this series so much. It is this: Stiefvater's writing takes on the essence of what is beloved in poetry; the tone mournful yet full of observation,. It makes the reading feel surreal; slightly mystical. For example: (pg. 71 of ARC) "Overhead, thunder rumbled, seemingly in advance of the storm cloud, which was cupping around the tops of the trees like a hand hiding a secret." I think this imagery is just stunning! But more than that is when these little bits of insight are revealed. It could pop up just after one of the characters had been discussing a mundane element of life, then bam! something beautiful and intuitive shows up. It always makes me wish I had realized it myself, but happy that someone else had, and found a way to share it with me (and all of the other readers).
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Nicole Reviews: Forbidden by Tabitha Suzuma

2011-07-20T12:00:00.006-04:00

Click here for the book description.

Available at Amazon, Book Depository, Chapters

Generally when I pick a novel, I like to read ones that have a light and "fluffy" plot, with easy characters. I like to escape into their fictional world. So naturally when Jackie asked me to review FORBIDDEN, I was more than a bit hesitant. I read the brief overview on the back (which I almost never do), and truthfully the thought of reading this book made my stomach turn. Then I gave myself a shake, and thought that there is nothing wrong with reading something outside of my comfort zone. I am sure glad that I did because the minute I started reading this book I was hooked. I have one word to describe this book, and it is ... FANTASTIC!!!

The author did a wonderful job connecting me with these characters and their world. She made me feel as though I was witnessing their struggles first hand. I wanted to wrap my arms around each one of these kids and tell them that everything was going to be alright.

"... I didn't take the photo from my room. Perhaps Maya will remember it and keep it safe. But I can't help hoping she'll cut off the two adults at either end of the bench and just keep the five children sandwiched in the middle. Because ultimately, that was the family that we became." (pg.417 Lochan)

Review: City of Ghosts by Stacia Kane

2011-07-20T09:00:00.001-04:00

Click here for the book description.
Available at Amazon, Book Depository

City of Ghosts is the third installment in Stacia Kane's Downside series and despite my desire to smack the main character, Chess, upside the head in the second book (Unholy Magic), I was more than willing to give her another chance to win back my heart.

Once again, the time frame isn't much beyond the previous book, and with that, all the fallout of Chess's actions and their effects on Terrible are still fresh . This for me was the biggest part of the story that I needed cleared up coming into City of Ghosts. Things are never that simple, though, and we have to allow for Kane's delivering the tale her way, to see if we're going to get what we want.

This story contained some new characters, Lauren, the Black Squad member that Chess has been asked to assist, and the strange man with all of the kids were major parts in the storyline. But it was the kids, the descriptions of their infirmities, how this could have happened that saddened and shocked me. Kane we true to form in her no holds barred way of story telling. As ever, the grit of the Downside world is evident in every element of the tale..
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On Location with Charlaine Harris

2011-07-19T14:19:00.002-04:00

So, it's been a pretty busy couple of days for me, first with the signing on Saturday, when I got to meet Maggie Stiefvater. Then last night, I was giddy as I had the opportunity to meet Charlaine Harris, creator of one of my favourite fictional characters, Eric Northman. Ok, Sookie Stackhouse is pretty good too, in her own rights, but there's nothing like a tall Viking, I tell ya....but I digress.

Ms. Harris was fantastic to see live. Her Southern accent and pleasant demeanor were well displayed as she answered many questions from the audience. Standing behind some tall people, I didn't venture any questions of my own, but I can share a few of her answers here.
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Have you ever...(3)

2011-07-19T09:00:00.000-04:00

As a collector of books, though probably still within amateur ranks compared to some, I usually purchase my reading material (besides those I receive as review copies). Recently, I've been faced with the scary fact that I'm running out of room to store and display my books, which truly saddens me. In an effort to conserve space...I've asked my daughter when she'll be moving out but she says, "Mom, I only 9!", so her room won't be available for another decade....I've acquired a library card. Ok, more than one library card; I like having options.

So, I've begun, slowly, borrowing books from the library. But I am really bad at returning the items or fitting them into my reading schedule. I want to read these books, I really do, but sometimes, I just can't get it done!
Worse still are the penalties charged for my tardiness. Am I alone in this bad habit?

Have you ever: Returned a library book late (even after several extensions) without having read it? Matching poll is on the right blog bar but please feel free to comment below. Your admissions may help to quell my own guilty conscience :-)

On Location with Maggie Stiefvater

2011-07-18T12:39:00.002-04:00

I had the great pleasure of seeing Maggie Stiefvater live on Saturday, as she stopped in at Chapters in Oshawa, Ontario for part of her Forever tour. Maggie came on stage, ready to go with stories of other live events she's been to, a tale of how she found out she't hit number one on the NYT Bestseller's list, and more. From the images below, you can see she is full of energy (yeah, let's go with that as the reason that some are blurry), but she's witty and full of charm.

Unfortunately, these events really never allow for a one on one conversation, but I did manage to squeeze in my own question. When I asked Maggie how she was able, when writing, to switch from her quirky online/in-person personality to the more mellow one that we see throughout her Wolves of Mercy Falls series, she told me that really, these were both true aspects of herself, one being the public image, the other the private one. She said that when writing, you see more of that private image in the words.

Other questions asked by the audience included one about which was her favourite character to write. She said Cole St. Clair was a lot of fun and had elements of demons she, herself, faced in College. Personally, Cole is my fave too, because of his many facets and the struggles he has had to endure. Being a rock start might not be as fun as it looks, when seen from his perspective, I guess.

Here's Maggie moving across the stage

(see? I told you she was a bit blurry :)

In My Mailbox

2011-07-17T19:26:00.000-04:00

I got a few books in the mail this week and thought I would post for the IMM feature, which I haven't done for quite a long time. In My Mailbox is a weekly meme, hosted by The Story Siren (click on the image to check out her IMM post).

Here's what made its way to me:

Adrenaline by Jeff Abbott

The End of Everything by Megan Abbott

Star Island by Carl Hiaasen (it's my first Hiaasen read!)

Nicole Reviews: So Much Closer by Susane Colasanti

2011-07-13T09:00:00.002-04:00

Click here for the book description.

Available from Amazon, Book Depository, Penguin.ca

"One of the most amazing things that can happen is finding someone who sees everything you are and won't let you be anything less. They see the potential of you. They see endless possibilities. And through their eyes, you start to see yourself the same way. As someone who matters. As someone who can make a difference in this world.

If you are lucky enough to find that person, never let them go." (pg.241)

This is what the author leaves you with at the end of this book. It is a powerful message, that unfortunately not everyone understands when it comes to their relationships.

This novel is about a struggling teenager. Her relationship with her parents is strained, and she has masked her potential and intelligence in order to fit in with her peers. She thinks she is in love with this (in her eyes) popular, talented and handsome boy. When she finds out that he is moving to New York City- she moves to her Dad's house... conveniently down the block from the boy.

"Men in Kilts"

2011-07-12T11:34:00.001-04:00

Ok, it's not what you're probably thinking: a follow up movie to that weird comedy from years back, "Robin Hood" Men in Tights". Indeed, this is so much better! Sourcebooks has put some of their best Highlander e-books on sale for ...are you sitting down?...$0.99! Here's what they're offering:

Awaken the Highland Warrior by Anita Clenney

A man from another time…

Faelan is from an ancient clan of Scottish Highland warriors, charged with shielding humanity from demonic forces. Betrayed and locked in a time vault, he has been sleeping for nearly two centuries when spunky historian Bree Kirkland inadvertently wakes him. She’s more fearsome than the demon trying to kill him, and if he’s not careful, she’ll uncover the secrets his clan has bled and died to protect…

Could be the treasure she’s been seeking all her life…

When Bree inherits an old treasure map, she discovers a warrior buried in her backyard. But the warrior isn’t dead. Bree shocks Faelan with her modern dress and her boldness, and he infuriates Bree every time he tries to protect her.

With demons suddenly on the move, Bree discovers that Faelan’s duty as protector is in his blood, and that her part in this fight was destined before she was born. But nothing is ever what it seems…

Review: River Marked by Patricia Briggs

2011-07-12T10:30:00.001-04:00

Click here for the book description.

Available at Amazon, Book Depository, Penguin.ca

Per my usual method, this is the first book in The Mercy Thompson series that I have read. So, why did I want to read it? Well, I've heard great things about the series and I was completely intrigued by a female mechanic as the main character. All my life, I've been around mechanics and this seemed like something I might be able to relate to.

The story starts off with Mercy's concern for Stefan, the vampire, which I can only assume was how the last book ended. From that part of the story to her impending marriage to Adam, I did feel somewhat out of the loop. Fortunately, I think, Ms. Briggs does a good job of filling the reader in on what's happened up till now without being overwhelming (the whole how much is too much in back story has become my latest obsession.)

I enjoyed the serious versus humourous elements in the story. It appears Mercy has been through a lot in her life and this proved no exception in River Marked. It felt, initially, that it was going to be a slow go throughout, as there was more talk of the wedding than anything else. But, this changed quickly and it became full of intense action.

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Have you ever...(2)

2011-07-12T09:00:00.006-04:00

Last week's poll resulted in a middle of the road result, where most people either were willing to give books that last chance and/or give up after a certain number of books. Thanks to everyone that participated and offered their opinions!

This week's topic:
I find reading has always been a great escape for me, as you get to (vicariously) travel to distant times or lands. You get to jump into someone else's experience for a little while. This is pretty cool. But what happens when you leave the book? Do you take any of that character's life with you?

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Review: Dead Reckoning by Charlaine Harris

2011-07-11T13:45:00.000-04:00

Click here for the book description.

Available at Amazon, Book Depository, Penguin.ca

I was hoping by now that I would've had time to go back and read all the books in between Dead Until Dark (book 1) and Dead in the Family (book 10) to get caught up to speed. Well, it still hasn't happened but I wasn't going to let it deter me from reading the latest offering in the Sookie Stackhouse saga, Dead Reckoning. I must admit though, that things are becoming a bit blurry for me between the backstory that has been eluded to in the last two books and what I have watched over the last three seasons of True Blood. I really need to read up and get the skinny on the written version in a much more complete way.

Dead Reckoning started off with a bang, with action in the first chapter. I was hopeful that this exciting pace would continue throughout the book. Well, it didn't, I'm sad to report. But what intrigues me, as I'm reading about Sookie, is how in my mind I conjure up a scene of sitting on porch, swinging, and drinking lemonade while hearing far out tales that would make any traditional southern woman fan herself rapidly in shock and dismay.

Sookie goes about her life as though it's normal, then has these crazy moments of paranormal mayhem. She even questions the sanity of it all and how/if she can handle anymore. I liked this reflective aspect in the story. That Sookie is made aware of how screwed up her life is, rather than just the reader seeing it and screaming into the book, "Wake up, Sookie!" , is a refreshing quality (yes, the yelling still happens but if fictional characters realized too much about their own lives there would be no story at all).

What I'm getting a bit tired of is all the fence sitting in Sookie and Eric's relationship. Maybe it's because I love the Eric character so much it makes me biased. I just want Sookie to make up her mind, but something always seems to get in the way. And there's no exception here. The story is left wide open for more books, which is good when you love the characters as I do. BUT, when most of the story is told in that languorous, porch swinging way, it starts to get a little drawn out. I haven't yet given up on Sookie, but I would've liked much more action and intrigue than what was delivered.

There were some great scenes, including a funny one with Bill, and another intense one near the end with Bubba. My heart really went out to Pam, and I'd have been feeling murderous too, if I'd had to endure what she went through. All in all, there was some great story building, some partial resolutions, but still lots of story lines that have been working through the last two book (and probably longer, though I haven't read the other books yet) that need resolving and soon! Saying all that, I still look forward to what Charlaine Harris cooks up in future offerings for Sookie and the gang.

Review: First Grave of the Right by Darynda Jones

2011-07-11T09:00:00.002-04:00

Click here for the book description.

Available from Amazon, Book Depository

Still relatively new to the audiobook format, I listened to First Grave on the Right as a recommendation from Caroline at Secret HEA Society and Book Lovers Inc. (she's very influential on my listening these days :-) Again, Caroline was dead on the money with this book.

The concept here is quite different, that Charley is a Grim Reaper, and, what in fact the Grim Reaper has the responsibility of. But I really liked the twist. To have Charley with this major responsibility but also as a human private detective, trying to solve the wrongful deaths, is a great blend.

The story is told with lots of humour, which always keeps me engrossed and entertained. There were also times when some seriousness was needed, especially as a subject like human trafficking arose, and it was handled well, I thought. All in all, I liked the way the stories intertwined.

But then there's Reyes. As First Grave in the Right unfolds, this man that has impacted Charley's life so much from when she was a teenager, is slowly uncovered for what or who he really is and THAT promises to become way more interesting in further novels. Darynda Jones portrays this characters as full of mystery and you feel for him, as his initial story comes out. Then, as even more is revealed, there's a wariness I felt about his motives where Charley is concerned. I really want to believe he's on the up and up, I really do...

I really enjoyed all of the elements in First Grave on the Right and found the audio helped to emphasize the humour. I will be trying to get my hands on Second Grave of the Left as soon as it is released. This was a great story with a cozy mystery feel, mixed in with potential for apocalyptic disaster...how can you go wrong?

Review: The Iron Daughter by Julie Kagawa

2011-07-07T14:15:00.001-04:00

Click here to read the book description.

Available at Amazon, Book Depository, Chapters, Harlequin

The Iron Daughter is my third foray into Julie Kagawa's version of the Faery world and its interactions with the human world (I am including the short story, Winter's Passage in my calculations :-) As I mentioned in my review of Winter's Passage, I had thought this book would start with the travel to the Winter Court, but it starts smack dab with Meghan in Mab's domain.

We get to really meet Ash's whole family here, and I know they're supposed to be cold and all, but that they'd make great candidates for the Jerry Springer Show was surprising to me. Ash's mother (Mab) is portrayed as a raving lunatic, at times. Granted, she's been around a long, long time and has felt the enmity against the Summer King for just as long, it stands to reason that a raging war is always just brewing under the surface. I think this is where I really started to feel something for Ash; he's trying so hard to maintain his cool facade around his mother, while battling his growing feelings for Meghan. Poor guy!
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Nicole Reviews: He's So Not Worth It by Kieran Scott

2011-07-07T10:16:00.022-04:00

Ally Ryan, come on down to the Jersey Shore and forget your troubles!

Have you recently been humiliated in front of your friends and family at your former best friend's birthday party? Was your almost boyfriend partly responsible for that humiliation by withholding some vital information about where your estranged father is? Did you come home to find said estranged father sitting on your stoop?

If so, then it sounds like you could use a vacation! The Jersey Shore is the place to be. Your mother may be living with her boyfriend of only a few months, but at least the stunt Shannen pulled has put some of your friends back in your court. Even so, you're still angry and what better way to get over Jake than to blow off some steam with local guy, Cooper? People will hardly recognize your new attitude, but the old one wasn't getting you anywhere, so who cares!

Jake Graydon, an exciting opportunity is waiting for you in the service industry!

Are your grades so low your parents have grounded you for the summer? Did you the girl you really like unceremoniously leave you behind? Would you rather eat dirt than see your friends again? Then a job at the local coffee shop is just the ticket! Surprisingly, Ally's father is the new manager so you get to be reminded of her nearly every day. Maybe it's time to start flirting with your best friend's ex or even taking school a bit more seriously. Especially when you finally see Ally and she's hanging around with some loser and it's couldn't be more clear that she is over you.

Have a great summer!

Available at Amazon, Book Depository

A little while ago, I introduced you to my friend, Nicole (her first review is here). She enjoyed the reading/reviewing part so much I got her to agree to come on board for more! So, as I gently mould her into a book reviewer, lol, I gave her a few things to think about as she read He's So Not Worth It by Kieran Scott. Here's what she had to say:

When I was half finished the book, Jackie told me that this was the second book in the series. I don't feel that reading the first book is a necessity, but it may help. At times, it felt like the author expected me to know the characters history, and how the previous plot twisted and turned. (Jackie interprets this as: First book would be a big asset in understanding this book also) It may have helped me to connect more with the characters. With saying that, the author left it VERY open for the third book. I feel that it is a MUST to read this book before moving onto the third.

Have you ever... (1)

2011-07-05T15:26:00.001-04:00

By nature, I'm a pretty curious person. I tend to go off on tangents, especially as I'm reading something that is new to me. This can sometimes cut into my reading time, as I head off to research one thing or another. I thought that maybe a better course of action would be to share my questions with you, my awesome readers, and get some opinions.

My first question came from a few books I've finished recently. Each of the books in question were part of a series that I've been loyal to in the past and continue to buy the books, to keep my "library" complete. But I seem to have lost the love I once felt for the storyline and/or the characters. What's a reader to do?

So, I put the question out here: Have you ever given up on a series?

I have a poll on the right hand side of the blog. I'd love to see what everyone else thinks. And feel free to leave a comment below, if you have anything to add (ie. series that you are loyal to or ones that have lost there lustre, etc.)

Review: Winter's Passage by Julia Kagawa

2011-07-05T10:30:00.005-04:00

Meghan Chase used to be an ordinary girl...until she discovered that she is really a faery princess. After escaping from the clutches of the deadly Iron fey, Meghan must follow through on her promise to return to the equally dangerous Winter Court with her forbidden love, Prince Ash. But first, Meghan has one request: that they visit Puck--Meghan's best friend and servant of her father, King Oberon--who was gravely injured defending Meghan from the Iron Fey.

Yet Meghan and Ash's detour does not go unnoticed. They have caught the attention of an ancient, powerful hunter--a foe that even Ash may not be able to defeat....

An eBook exclusive story from Julie Kagawa's Iron Fey series.

Available at Harlequin, Amazon

Being a short story, I guess it's okay for me to write a short review, right? Let's see how that works out, as I can, at times, tend to be verbose :-p

Reading this e-book right after The Iron King, I was surprised that it dealt with the voyage to the Winter Court. I thought for sure that would be an integral part of The Iron
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Reading List: July 2011

2011-07-04T16:20:00.003-04:00

It's been almost two years of blogging for me now and it still feels like a bit of a whirlwind at times. I had originally set out to have a place to keep track what books I was reading and discuss them, which then led to reviewing. Getting knee deep in book reviewing happened fairly quickly and had been (and still is) a learning experience. But I thought it was time I get back to my original thinking...at least the organizing part.

I decided to have a post dedicated to the reads planned for the month ahead. So, here is my reading material for July 2011. It seems ambitious, but I will strive to get through as many as I can! (And this post will also serve as a reminder to me of what needs to be accomplished...and when). Wish me luck!

Canada Day Blog Hop: Stop 25

2011-06-29T10:04:00.008-04:00

Welcome to my stop on the Canada Day Blog Hop! I'm pretty excited to participate in this one, with it being my first ever blog hop as well as my countdown to Canada's birthday (and the long weekend that accompanies it!)

Organized by KnitPurlStitch and Snowdrop Dreams of Books , we are celebrating our nation by offering giveaways! I'm offering a choice of either of the titles listed below
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Interview with Kevin Hearne

2011-06-22T15:30:00.003-04:00

I've recently read and reviewed, Hounded by Kevin Hearne (click here to read my review) and loved it so much that I broke out of my shell and actually asked the author for my first (solicited) interview ever! With the second book in the series, Hexed, just released and the third, Hammered, less than two weeks away, we get to peak into the author's world here. Please give a warm welcome to Kevin Hearne:

Jackie: The second book in The Iron Druid trilogy released June 7, 2011. Please tell us a bit about what we'll find in the pages of Hexed?

Kevin: Atticus has to repel the invasion of some witches bent on claiming Tempe for their own, and in the meantime he also has to deal with the remaining mess from Hounded, as well as the continued machinations of Brighid and the Morrigan. And, of course, there's plenty more from Oberon and the widow MacDonagh.

J: Because your first novel, Hounded, was only released in May, is it too soon to ask if movie rights have been inquired about? How do you think a movie would play out, especially with the Atticus/Oberon conversations?

K: There are people working on it, I'm told, but I won't get excited about it until somebody shows me the money. People like to talk a lot in Hollywood, but it's all fluff and noise until somebody puts a contract in front of you. If I do ever get an offer, you can be sure I will stress that Oberon cannot be cut out of the movie and he cannot be made to move his mouth with little CGI effects. That's actually what worries me most.

J: Oberon is a pretty cool dog, with lots of one liners and quick retorts. Why, then, do you think he's so fascinated with the higher maintenance French Poodles?

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Review: Hounded by Kevin Hearne

2011-06-22T15:00:00.002-04:00

Click here to read the book description.

Available at Amazon, Book Depository, Chapters Indigo

Thanks to Caroline from The Secret HEA Society (and also one of my co-horts at Book Lovers Inc.), Kevin Hearne's book Hounded was put on my radar. I am now fast becoming one of Kevin's biggest fans!

Based on Caroline's recommendation, I borrowed the audio book from the library to start me off. This is a truly fantastic audio book! Read by Luke Daniels, the characters really come alive, especially Oberon, who is my personal fave (though Atticus is definitely no slouch either!) But more than how it was read, it's the what that was being read that made this book one of my faves in a long time. After starting it, I ran right out and bought my very own print copy, along with Hexed, in preparation.

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Review: Switch by Tish Cohen

2011-06-20T15:45:00.001-04:00

Click here for the book description.

Available from Chapter Indigo, Amazon, Book Depository (note: Switch is available in Canada now, but releases elsewhere in August 2011)

Likened to the movie Freaky Friday, Switch has two girls switching lives based on a wish (with an imaginative conduit, I might add). Having seen both versions of the movie, I had a good idea what I was in for.

Immediately, I felt that Tish Cohen seemed on the money, giving the main character, Andrea, the right type of "voice" for a teenage girl. The vernacular was not too old for someone in high school, nor was it too young. What irked me though was her (Andrea's) constant wallowing in self pity. But this actually turned out to be an important factor in why I ended up really liking the book.

I think we can all appreciate the desire to live life in someone else's shoes; we've probably made a passing wish ourselves at some point in our lives. Of course, fiction always comes around to prove that the grass is indeed greener on the other side. It was the real life situations that initially made Andrea make her wish, but it's the other girl, Joules', reality that really opens her eyes. Joules was also the biggest mystery for me; what were her motivations, how would her part of the story end?
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Guest Post: D J McIntosh, author of The Witch of Babylon

2011-06-16T10:00:00.005-04:00

Today being my stop on The Witch of Babylon blog tour, I'm very happy to share a few words from the author, D J McIntosh. Here, Ms. McIntosh gives us a sneak peak at how her main character developed and what he means in her life. So, please give a warm welcome to my special guest and read on!:

My Leading Man

I’ve developed a steady relationship with a certain guy over the last couple of years and we just seem to grow closer as time goes on. He’s exceptionally good looking, comes from an exotic background, is smart though no snooty intellectual, has great social skills, oh….and, did I mention he’s thirty-three years younger than me?

He does have his failings. A tendency to skim the edges of legality if the money is good enough, a proclivity that stands him in good stead in his profession as an art and antiquities dealer. He has a strong sense of self-doubt that he covers up with bravado and occasional flashes of quick temper. But, hey, no one’s perfect. And he loves rock/blues guitar just as much as I do. That pretty much restores the balance for me.

I speak, of course, about my leading man – John Madison – the central character in The Witch of Babylon and the next two books in the Babylon Trilogy to come.
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Review: The Witch of Babylon by D J McIntosh

2011-06-16T09:00:00.002-04:00

Click here to read the book description.

Available at Amazon, Chapters, Penguin

I received The Witch of Babylon from Bronwyn at Penguin Canada, and was very excited to get started reading it. I was most curious to read about the history of Mesopotamia and the related areas that were described in the book description.

True to its word, it was chock full of interesting tidbits that I had no idea about. What also impressed me were the ties that these cultures had or are asserted by the author in this novel. References to books in the Bible and Greek mythological people are only two elements that made the history more understandable to me, through the associations and quotes provided.

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Review: The Twilight Saga: The Official Illustrated Guide

2011-06-13T19:16:00.052-04:00

Click here to read the book blurb on Goodreads.

Available to purchase from: Amazon, Book Depository, Book Depository UK

Thanks to Melanie at Hachette Book Group Canada, I was able to review The Twilight Saga: The Official Illustrated Guide. So, when it arrived in the mail, my first thought was "Holy smokes! That's one heavy little book!" This is due in large part to the lovely paper used in the book, of encyclopaedic quality. It is a well produced book that appealed to me and my daughter (who was more into it for asthetics only).

This Guide has a Q&A with Stephenie Meyer, a chapter by chapter summary of all the books including a timeline starting at 1400 BC, character pages, family trees and so much more. There is even a section with fan art, which I thought was a fantastic tribute to Meyer's fans, displaying her attempt at connecting with them despite the difficulty she must have doing this now.

It's a stunning book on its own, as the book that ties everything together in a concise manner. But, really looking at it, you can see its potential for future writers as a resource, highlighting the kinds of elements that went into the novel writing process. From the locations, character sheets, types of vehicles, etc., you can see just how much background is needed to write a complete novel. It appears Meyer spent a lot of time getting things just right, which obviously paid off overall.

The Twilight Saga: The Official Illustrated Guide could quite as easily been referred to as 'The Twilight Encyclopaedia'. I'm very happy to have it sitting on my shelf, next to the four books that started the Twi craze. I also look forward to having something my daughter will enjoy more when she is just a little older. It's a true collector's piece.

Review: The Priest's Graveyard by Ted Dekker

2011-06-13T15:20:00.001-04:00

The last thing Renee Gilmore remembers is being rescued by a pair of unknown arms after her drug-dealer boyfriend attempts to murder her. She wakes up in a beautiful glass house surrounded by doctors and the man that saved her life, Lamont Myers. Lamont offers her protection, if she abides by his rules. Among these; she must not leave the house, making her the bird in his gilded cage.

Danny Hansen is a Bosnian immigrant who came to America to escape the bloodshed of his country and the memories of his own involvement. cont'd

Available at Amazon, Book Depository, Book Depository UK

I've heard great things around the blogging/reviewing community about Ted Dekker and considering his connection with Canada, I was curious if I, too, would like his writing. From the get-go, The Priest's Graveyard is exciting. A priest that, in essence, acts (violently) as a conscience for the greater good of human kind? Interesting concept to say the least.
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Review: Unholy Magic by Stacia Kane

2011-06-08T09:30:00.005-04:00

ENEMIES DON’T NEED TO BE ALIVE TO BE DEADLY.

For Chess Putnam, finding herself near-fatally poisoned by a con psychic and then stopping a murderous ghost is just another day on the job. As an agent of the Church of Real Truth, Chess must expose those looking to profit from the world’s unpleasant little poltergeist problem—humans filing false claims of hauntings—all while staving off any undead who really are looking for a kill. But Chess has been extra busy these days, coping with a new “celebrity” assignment while trying on her own time to help some desperate prostitutes.

Someone’s taking out the hookers of Downside in the most gruesome way, and Chess is sure the rumors that it’s the work of a ghost are way off base. But proving herself right means walking in the path of a maniac, not to mention standing between the two men in her life just as they—along with their ruthless employers—are moving closer to a catastrophic showdown. Someone is dealing in murder, sex, and the supernatural, and once again Chess finds herself right in the crossfire.

Having listened to Unholy Ghosts on audio and loving it, I figured I would continue with the same format for the rest of the Chess Putnam books. In Unholy Magic, the story continues shortly after the first book left and poor Chess has barely had time ro recuperate.
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Looking for great e-books at a great price (as in free)?

2011-06-07T14:32:00.027-04:00

Sourcebooks has done it again! To prepare for new releases by select authors, they are offering previous books from said authors at a fantastic price! Check out these titles:

New York Times Bestselling Author, Grace Burrowes has the next book in her delightful regency romance series in stores this month: The Soldier. During this exciting time: The Soldier will be $2.99 for 2 weeks (06/07/2011 – 06/20/2011) and The Heir at $0.99 for 5 weeks (05/02/2011 – 06/06/2011)—so get them both while you can!
Amazon, Sourcebooks, Kobo, Barnes & Noble
(Ok, this one isn't completely free, but still a steal of a deal! Keep reading...)

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Review: Where She Went by Gayle Foreman

2011-06-06T09:00:00.001-04:00

Click here to read the book blurb on Goodreads.

Available to purchase from: Amazon, Book Depository, Book Depository UK

Not having read If I Stay, I wasn't sure how this story would play out for me. I quickly found out that it really didn't matter that I hadn't read the first book; the way this story was presented had me (and kept me) completely engrossed. If it hadn't been for a darned power outage on the day I started reading Where She Went, I would have had this book consumed in one sitting (and seriously, it wasn't for my lack of trying with candles, a book light, and a flash light...but it was just too dark :-p)

The best part of this story, for me, was Adam's introspection. He knows what sets him off, he realizes he needs to do something about it, but can't quite grasp the ability to fix all that has happened to him emotionally/mentally
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On Location with Robert Munsch

2011-06-04T11:54:00.002-04:00

My On Location feature today is sadly not one that I was in attendance for but thanks to Nikole at Scholastic, we all get to share in this incredible author's outting! If you have kids or have ever been one yourself, then you know Robert Munsch is a big deal, especially in my neck of the woods. I have attended a signing before and it is amazing to see the number of kids and adults that show up to hear him read and have their favourite books signed by Munsch himself.

So, how much cooler would it be if it was you and your family featured in one of his books? Beyond awesome, I would think. Case in point, take a look at what happened when Robert Munsch was reunited with the inspiration for his latest (his 30th with Scholastic!) book:
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Review: A Courtesan's Guide to Getting Your Man by Celeste Bradley and Susan Donovan

2011-05-31T11:46:00.091-04:00

Regency London’s most celebrated courtesan, The Blackbird, was a woman before her time—uninhibited, financially independent, and free to live by her own rules. Schooled in the sensual arts by the one man she loved the most, she recorded every wicked detail in her diaries…

When Boston museum curator Piper Chase-Pierpont unearths The Blackbird’s steamy memoirs, she’s aroused and challenged by what she finds. Could the courtesan’s diaries be used as a modern girl’s guide to finding love and empowerment? One curious curator—and one very lucky man—are about to find out…

Available for purchase at: Amazon, Book Depository, Book Depository UK

Being fairly new at reviewing historical romances, I'm never sure what to expect from authors within the genre. But this isn't exactly historical, having part of the tale told by a modern woman. And of course, there isn't only one author involved in the writing of A Courtesan's Guide to Getting Your Man, so it was an interesting reading experience for me. I definitely felt there were times that I could distinguish the writing styles of each author, but as a whole, I think the novel flowed very well.
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Review: The Iron King by Julie Kagawa

2011-05-30T12:00:00.001-04:00

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

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

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

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

Having heard so many rave reviews about this book, I was curious to see for myself if it could live up to all the hype. My first impressions though, weren't all that great. I think my biggest issue to get past was the other Faery themed books I had read and loved. The characters here had to compete with certain prejudices I had built up.

The story definitely took a different turn though, which more than made up for any initial short comings I felt it had. A new court created from modern society's advances and the potential of loss the older fairy kingdoms are told here in an interesting way. It is more Read more »

Review: Abandon by Meg Cabot

2011-05-30T09:00:00.007-04:00

New from #1 New York Times bestselling author Meg Cabot, a dark, fantastical story about this world . . . and the underworld.

Though she tries returning to the life she knew before the accident, Pierce can't help but feel at once a part of this world, and apart from it. Yet she's never alone . . . because someone is always watching her. Escape from the realm of the dead is impossible when someone there wants you back.

But now she's moved to a new town. Maybe at her new school, she can start fresh. Maybe she can stop feeling so afraid.

Only she can't. Because even here, he finds her. That's how desperately he wants her back. She knows he's no guardian angel, and his dark world isn't exactly heaven, yet she can't stay away . . . especially since he always appears when she least expects it, but exactly when she needs him most.

But if she lets herself fall any further, she may just find herself back in the one place she most fears: the Underworld.

I got Abandon as a surprise review copy from Nikole at Scholastic Canada and was immediately intrigued. It has many of the elements I find enjoyable in a story: light YA reading, mythology, and a pretty cover. I delved in right away.
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And in Book Related News...

2011-05-26T10:40:00.001-04:00

On May 24, 2011, Hachette Book Group announced the upcoming release of Twilight: The Graphic Novel, Volume 2. Yen Press, an imprint of HBG, will be handling this second installment and are printing 350 000 copies for the North American edition.

From the press release, Hachette states that "The Twilight Saga’s translation rights have been sold in nearly 50 countries and 116 million copies have been sold worldwide. Twilight: The Graphic Novel Volume 1 debuted at #1 on the New York Times bestseller list. Twilight was named the #1 bestselling books of the decade by USA TODAY." This franchise seems to be continuing to grow exponentially.
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Review: A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness

2011-05-25T12:45:00.003-04:00

A richly inventive novel about a centuries-old vampire, a spellbound witch, and the mysterious manuscript that draws them together.

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

Debut novelist Deborah Harkness has crafted a mesmerizing and addictive read, equal parts history and magic, romance and suspense. Diana is a bold heroine who meets her equal in vampire geneticist Matthew Clairmont, and gradually warms up to him as their alliance deepens into an intimacy that violates age-old taboos. This smart, sophisticated story harks back to the novels of Anne Rice, but it is as contemporary and sensual as the Twilight series-with an extra serving of historical realism.

With its touted comparison to Anne Rice's earlier novels, I was intrigued by the idea of A Discovery of Witches. Add to this the author's biography proclaiming Deborah Harkness, herself, is a scholar, I was hopeful that the historical references in the story would teach me a few new things. But when I received the book, I looked at its near 600 pages with dubiousness.
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On Location with Lauren Oliver and Veronica Roth

2011-05-24T14:00:00.004-04:00

On May 17th, I had the great pleasure of attending The Dystopian Tour 2011, featuring authors Lauren Oliver and Veronica Roth. The event was held at Chapters Indigo at Yorkdale Mall in Toronto (one of three events in Ontario!), and was made possible thanks to Harper Collins Canada, Chapters Indigo, and Space TV.

Lauren was in town promoting her newest book, Delerium, while Veronica was here with her offering, Divergent, both of which have been getting a lot of buzz in the book community. Both young women were interviewed by Ajay Fry from Space TV, so the audience got to sit in on the interview then the floor was opened up to some fan questions.

Ajay started off with questions about inspiration. Lauren said she had read something from Gabriel Garcia Marquez saying that all writing was either about love or death. This got her thinking that the 'symptoms' of love can be quite similar to the symptoms of disease, so from there her story was born. Veronica
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Review:Unholy Ghosts by Stacia Kane

2011-05-23T15:00:00.003-04:00

In a future world where the dead have risen and are attacking the living, the Church of Real Truth has replaced the government, and has sworn to reimburse those citizens who have been attacked by the undead. Chess Putnam, a fully-tattooed witch, freewheeling Debunker, and ghost hunter, works for the Church of Real Truth investigating claims of hauntings. But meanwhile her drug habit has left her owing a dangerous drug lord who insists that she settle the score by dispatching a very nasty species of undead from an old airport. But the job involves black magic, human sacrifice, a nefarious demonic creature, and crossing swords with enough wicked energy to wipe out a city of souls. Toss in lust for a rival gang leader and a dangerous attraction to Bump's ruthless enforcer, and Chess begins to wonder if the rush is really worth it. Hell, yeah.

Unholy Ghosts, the first of Stacia Kane's new Chess Putnam series, is a cross between 'Ghostbusters' and 'Escape from New York', featuring punk rock, black magic, greasers, drugs, human sacrifices, and a black 1969 Chevelle.

I've chatted with a few people about this series, receiving a general consensus that readers couldn't believe how much they liked the books considering the main characters, um, flaws. Of course, hearing the rave reviews made me curious to see what all the fuss was about.
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Review: A Shore Thing by Nicole "Snooki" Polizzi

2011-05-23T09:00:00.002-04:00

It's a summer to remember . . . at the Jersey Shore.

Giovanna "Gia" Spumanti and her cousin Isabella "Bella" Rizzoli are going to have the sexiest summer ever. While they couldn't be more different—pint-size Gia is a carefree, outspoken party girl and Bella is a tall, slender athlete who always holds her tongue—for the next month they're ready to pouf up their hair, put on their stilettos, and soak up all that Seaside Heights, New Jersey, has to offer: hot guidos, cool clubs, fried Oreos, and lots of tequila.

So far, Gia's summer is on fire. Between nearly burning down their rented bungalow, inventing the popular "tan-tags" at the Tantastic Salon where she works, and rescuing a shark on the beach, she becomes a local celebrity overnight. Luckily, she meets the perfect guy to help her keep the flames under control. Firefighter Frank Rossi is exactly her type: big, tan, and Italian. But is he tough enough to handle Gia when things really heat up? cont'd

When I was offered this book for review, I hemmed and hawed a little about it, but I knew there was someone that just might be a better judge of A Shore Thing than I would be. So, I enlisted my friend Nicole into interning for me (if you want to call it that); she read Snooki's book and was happy to share her thoughts with me. I will admit to being surprised by what she had to say. Here are Nicole's thoughts about the book :
Jackie: Was A Shore Thing just like Jersey Shore?
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Review: City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare

2011-05-17T09:55:00.002-04:00

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

Having whipped through City of Bones and being left with uncertainties in a particular part of the story line, I was anxious to get some resolution in City of Ashes. This might explain why, initially, I found this one a slow starter. I just couldn't get passed that one element.

Fortunately, Cassie Clare's writing doesn't allow you much time to dwell over not getting the exact story line you want. Clare feeds you a little of Read more »

Review: Death of a Chimney Sweep by M.C. Beaton

2011-05-16T15:30:00.004-04:00

In the south of Scotland, residents get their chimneys vacuum-cleaned. But in the isolated villages in the very north of Scotland, the villagers rely on the services of the itinerant sweep, Pete Ray, and his old-fashioned brushes. Pete is always able to find work in the Scottish highlands, until one day when Police Constable Hamish Macbeth notices blood dripping onto the floor of a villager's fireplace, and a dead body stuffed inside the chimney. The entire town of Lochdubh is certain Pete is the culprit, but Hamish doesn't believe that the affable chimney sweep is capable of committing murder. Then Pete's body is found on the Scottish moors, and the mystery deepens. Once again, it's up to Hamish to discover who's responsible for the dirty deed--and this time, the murderer may be closer than he realizes.

Death of a Chimney Sweep is actually the 27th book in the Hamish MacBeth series, and I'm sure by this time, Hamish has come across all manner of dark deeds and scheming criminals in his adventures. But, what I like in these books is that Ms. Beaton can continue to find interesting ways to blend old world elements (a chimney sweep, in this book) with the modern world.

The drawing factor for me has always been the Scottish ideals and lifestyle that are woven
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Superstition in Fiction

2011-05-13T16:30:00.003-04:00

Everywhere around the internet today, in particular, you'll find people mentioning Friday the 13th, accompanied by their own tales of bad luck that happen, be it this day or any previous Friday the 13th. It got me thinking about other supersitions that I've recently read about in books.

One of my current reads is A Discovery of Witches by Deborah Harkness. As I was reading along last night, I came across mentions of the Knights Templar, which of course, have Read more »

And in Book Related News...

2011-05-13T13:14:00.004-04:00

In 2009, one of my earliest reviews here was Jess Walters' The Financial Lives of Poets, a fun yet sad look at a down and out writer that gets caught up in a "business" (drug) far from his ideal (financial advice provided with the back drop of poetry and prose). It has been announced that Walters has penned the screen play for the film adaptation and will star Jack Black. This is an interesting casting choice, considering I pictured the main character to be a tall, lanky man...but I'm sure the filmmakers aren't concerned with my inner vision of the character. Read the Hollywood Reporter for more details.

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Review: Wither by Lauren DeStefano

2011-05-12T15:00:00.007-04:00

What if you knew exactly when you would die?

Thanks to modern science, every human being has become a ticking genetic time bomb—males only live to age twenty-five, and females only live to age twenty. In this bleak landscape, young girls are kidnapped and forced into polygamous marriages to keep the population from dying out.

When sixteen-year-old Rhine Ellery is taken by the Gatherers to become a bride, she enters a world of wealth and privilege. Despite her husband Linden's genuine love for her, and a tenuous trust among her sister wives, Rhine has one purpose: to escape—to find her twin brother and go home.

But Rhine has more to contend with than losing her freedom. Linden's eccentric father is bent on finding an antidote to the genetic virus that is getting closer to taking his son, even if it means collecting corpses in order to test his experiments. With the help of Gabriel, a servant Rhine is growing dangerously attracted to, Rhine attempts to break free, in the limited time she has left.

It seems this year, that the biggest trend in YA books is the dystopian genre, and within this field, there are quite a few books receiving some extra attention. Wither by Lauren DeStefano is one of the many touted as superior in dystopian fiction for 2011, Having read the great things about it certainly outweighed my reluctance to read this type of book; the kind that generally makes me more angsty than usual.
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Review: Red Glove by Holly Black

2011-04-12T15:11:00.001-04:00

Curses and cons. Magic and the mob. In Cassel Sharpe's world, they go together. Cassel always thought he was an ordinary guy, until he realized his memories were being manipulated by his brothers. Now he knows the truth—he’s the most powerful curse worker around. A touch of his hand can transform anything—or anyone—into something else.

That was how Lila, the girl he loved, became a white cat. Cassel was tricked into thinking he killed her, when actually he tried to save her. Now that she's human again, he should be overjoyed. Trouble is, Lila's been cursed to love him, a little gift from his emotion worker mom. And if Lila's love is as phony as Cassel's made-up memories, then he can't believe anything she says or does. cont'd

Last year, when the first book in the Curse Workers series was released (White Cat), it was my first exposure to Holly Black's writing. Since then, I have become a huge fan of her work (though I still have to get her older books and read Ms. Black's entire library...it's on the to do list!) What I like is that she is dark, slightly twisted, and a very good story teller.
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There's Lead in Your Lipstick by Gillian Deacon - Blog Tour

2011-04-12T07:00:00.032-04:00

Today is day 2 (yesterday's stop on the tour was at Rayment’s Readings, Rants and Ramblings) of the blog tour for There's Lead in Your Lipstick and I'm excited to be a part of this event! There is increased awareness about products we are using/consuming, but there is still so much for us all to learn to be able to lead an overall healthier style of living. And that's where Gillian Deacon comes in. Read a little bit about Gillian's thoughts on how we can start a better future right now:

A special Earth Day message from Gillian Deacon:

Earth day shouldn't just be an annual tip of the hat to greener living. This year, make it the day you recalibrate your everyday patterns to be more earth-friendly all year long.

You don't have to be a treehugger to care about avoiding toxins in your everyday bodycare. Synthetic chemicals in personal care products contaminating groundwater and wildlife is alarming enough—but they’re also contaminating us. Those hard-to-read ingredients you squint at on the back of a product label? They’re building up inside your body and in your children’s bodies—on Earth Day and everyday.

Make today the day you start paying attention to that fine print. Turn a product over and read the ingredients label before you are seduced by the “green” imaging on the package. The good news is, there are lots of safer products on the market.

Good luck and I hope you’ll check out There’s Lead in Your Lipstick for more ideas on how to clean up your act!

And here's a sample of what you'll find in the pages of There's Lead in Your Lipstick:

Researchers in Finland tested eighty-eight coloursfrom twenty-five brands and found forty-nine eyeshadows contained lead, cobalt, nickel, chromium,
and arsenic. Eyeshadows also often contain petrochemicals, such as mineral oil, dimethicone to make the powder stick to the eyelid, and a binding agent like methacrylate, which in addition to being a strong skin irritant is also a contributor to 1,4-dioxane, a known carcinogen. Glitter eyeshadows use pure aluminum to create the shimmery effect; the aluminum
can migrate into the eye and cause injury to the cornea.

Has this peaked your interest? Then, I have some good news! Leave me a comment below and you'll be entered to win a prize pack valued at $48.95 containing a copy of Gillian's book and an Eco Kiss kit from Saffron Rouge.
The contest will run from today until April 19th, when I will pick the winner using random.org. (Contest is open to Canadian mailing addresses only.)

Good luck and be sure to check out tomorrow's stop on the tour at Jacob's Beloved

Review: City of Bones by Cassandra Clare

2011-04-07T12:17:00.004-04:00

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

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

I could make this a simple review and say "I loved this book!" and leave it at that. But, for those of you that haven't read it yet (and, seriously, what are you waiting for?), it doesn't give you a compelling enough arguement to run out right away and read this book.

There are lots of stories that have a gradual rise, you get accustomed to characters then watch the action begin. Not so, with City of Bones. Within the first few pages, you're right in the thick of things, with the boy being killed and Clary Fray, our heroine, having her eyes opened to unbelievable things.

The novel does build to a fantastic climax but along the way you are teased with details, fun dialogue, and an incredible world that lies just below the sightline of "normal" humans. Clare writes with such fervor that you do kind of want to jump right in there too, possible early death be damned!

There's also an incredibly taboo subject that becomes a main focus here. I have to say, I was glad that no one had spoiled things for me along the way (except a random Tweet by Maggie Stievate), which gave this part of the storyline that much more impact. My "Noooooo!" is still resounding in my head. Again, Clare's writing makes you question your own judgement, when despite this "facet", you still want what should really be impossible.

City of Bones is rich in characters, drama, and action. I know it will be a book I return to again and again, to relive this entrancing story.

Waiting on Wednesday: City of Fallen Angels by Cassandra Clare

2011-03-09T13:01:00.002-05:00

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly meme hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine where we get to highlight the upcoming books that we just can't get our hands on yet, but really wish we could!

Personally, I haven't posted a WoW pick in a while, but this one deserves some attention! I've just finished reading City of Bones as part of a book club read, along with Mel at He Followed Me Home and Melissa from My World...in words and pages. I'm anxious to get into City of Ashes then City of Glass pretty quickly now. But, there's more to the story!! City of Fallen Angels continues the tale of the Shadowhunters and their perilous lives.

This great world that Cassandra Clare has created has left me wanting more. My plan is to have City of Ashes and City of Glass finished just in time for the release of City of Fallen Angels on April 5, 2011. I'd better get started...

Review: Cryer's Cross by Lisa McMann

2011-03-02T16:10:00.000-05:00

The community of Cryer’s Cross, Montana (population 212) is distraught when high school freshman Tiffany disappears without a trace. Already off-balance due to her OCD, 16-year-old Kendall is freaked out seeing Tiffany’s empty desk in the one-room school house, but somehow life goes on... until Kendall's boyfriend Nico also disappears, and also without a trace. Now the town is in a panic. Alone in her depression and with her OCD at an all-time high, Kendall notices something that connects Nico and Tiffany: they both sat at the same desk. She knows it's crazy, but Kendall finds herself drawn to the desk, dreaming of Nico and wondering if maybe she, too, will disappear...and whether that would be so bad. Then she begins receiving graffiti messages on the desk from someone who can only be Nico. Can he possibly be alive somewhere? Where is he? And how can Kendall help him? The only person who believes her is Jacian, the new guy she finds irritating...and attractive. As Kendall and Jacian grow closer, Kendall digs deeper into Nico's mysterious disappearance only to stumble upon some ugly—and deadly—local history. Kendall is about to find out just how far the townspeople will go to keep their secrets buried.

There is something to be said about not reading a book blurb. In discussing Cryer's Cross with Mel at He Followed Me Home, I was explaining to her how freaked out this book made me. Whether it's just my general chicken-ness for certain spooky scenarios or because of my different perspective as a result of knowing nothing going into it, we couldn't actually decide. Either way, this book was creepy (to me)!

Having read all of Lisa McMann's book to date, what I find refreshing about her writing is that she can get her ideas across in such a concise way. Her novels are short but this in no way hampers the story. There's a distinct detachment from the characters and storyline but at the same time, you still feel the intensity of what's going on. I think for me, it's this hard to pin-point factor that makes reading a Lisa McMann novel so compelling.

My foray into the story started off with about ten pages the first night; by the second, I had finished the book! I love a novel that can keep your attention like this. I had to find out what happened to Nico, I had to find out who the "we" were, and I had to find out if Jacian was capable of smiling, ever! For me, the sign of a good story is most felt when you walk away from the book but are left with something that makes it memorable. Cryer's Cross did just that, though what it has left me with is a compulsion to double check my door locks before bedtime. Thanks to Lisa McMann for another successful novel (and a little OCD of my own :-p )

Giveaways and Preorder Info

2011-03-02T09:00:00.000-05:00

So far, it's been a good year at My Ever Expanding Library for giveaways. Well, the fun continues today with 2 more books that are coming out in paperback next week. I'm happy to offer a copy of each of Bite Me by Christoper Moore and Horns by Joe Hill. To enter, you must have a US or Canadian mailing address and you must be a follower of my blog. Just leave a comment below with your contact info and telling me which of these awesome books you'd like to win (only one winner per book):

I reviewed Bite Me last year, when it releases in hardcover, you can read my review here. I'm a huge Christopher Moore fan but find it interesting how well he put voice to a teenage girl...just saying ;-) I'm wishing I had a cat like Chet. He seems like alotta fun too.

The city of San Francisco is being stalked by a huge shaved vampyre cat named Chet, and only I, Abby Normal, emergency backup mistress of the Greater Bay Area night, and my manga-haired love monkey, Foo Dog, stand between the ravenous monster and a bloody massacre of the general public.

Whoa. And this is a love story? Yup. 'Cept there's no whining. See, while some lovers were born to run, Jody and Tommy were born to bite. Well, reborn, that is, now that they're vampires. Good thing theirs is an undying love, since their Goth Girl Friday, Abby Normal, imprisoned them in a bronze statue.

Abby wants to be a bloodsucking fiend, too, but right now she's really busy with other stuff, like breaking in a pair of red vinyl thigh-high Skankenstein® platform boots and wrangling her Ph.D.-candidate boyfriend, Steve (the love monkey). And then there's that vampire cat Chet, who's getting bigger and smarter—and thirstier—by the minute. Abby thought she and Steve could handle the kitty cat on their own, mais non . . .

Before you can say "OMG! WTF?" Tommy and Jody are sprung from captivity, and join forces with Abby, Steve, the frozen-turkey-bowling Safeway crew, the Emperor of San Francisco and his trusty dogs Lazarus and Bummer, Abby's gay Goth friend Jared, and SF's finest Cavuto and Rivera to hunt big cat and save the city. And that's when the fun really begins.

I haven't read Horns yet, but will hopefully have a review to offer shortly:

Ignatius Perrish spent the night drunk and doing terrible things. He woke up the next morning with a pair of horns growing from his temples.

At first, Ig thought the horns were a hallucination, the product of a mind damaged by rage and grief. He had spent the last year in a lonely, private purgatory, following the death of his beloved, Merrin Williams, who had been raped and murdered under inexplicable circumstances. A mental breakdown would have been the most natural thing in the world. But there was nothing natural about the horns, which were all too real.

Once, the righteous Ig had enjoyed the life of the blessed. But Merrin's death damned all that. The only suspect in the crime, Ig was never charged or tried. And he was never cleared. Nothing Ig can do or say matters. Everyone it seems, including God, has abandoned him. Everyone that is, but the devil inside. . . .

Now Ig is possessed of a terrible new power—a macabre talent he intends to use to find the monster who killed Merrin and destroyed his life. It's time for a little revenge . . . it's time the devil had his due . . .

If you just can't wait to find out if you've won, Harper Collins has a special order for pre-orders. Here's what they have to say:

The first 1000 people to preorder Joe’s latest novel and then email joehill@harpercollins.com with proof of purchase will receive a specialized bookplate from Joe – he’s been signing and doodling all sorts of creations on bookplates for days now! For more information on this giveaway and the rest of Joe’s books, visit www.joehillfiction.com and follow Joe on Twitter @joe_hill.

That makes it win-win all around, right?! I will draw winners using random.org on March 16, 2011. Good luck and happy reading :-)

Review: Highland Heat by Mary Wine

2011-03-01T13:48:00.000-05:00

I usually offer the book description here, but that was posted with my interview of Mary Wine, so I'll just get into my review now:

From the moment of my birth, the "differences" between the Scottish and the English have been impressed upon me, to no end. And although I'm born and bred of lowlanders, the loyalty, pride, patriotism, however you wish to name it, is in every Scot on the planet! So, it was interesting for me to see these ideals put into print by Ms. Wine. Truly, with the number of times she refers to the highland credo, I think we may be sympatico in our heritage.

The conflict (and I use this term due to the hotheadedness of the heroine) between the main characters, Deirdre and Quinton, is introduced early. Like a slow tease, we feel their pull towards each other. In my mind, though, I was thinking, "Get to it already!!" But, with all things, the more you have patience, the greater the reward, right?

Highland Heat is a great peek into a tumultuous time in Scotland's history, highlighting clan differences and political struggles well. For fans of historical fiction, this definitely has it merits. While the English/Scottish factor has its place in the story, it isn't as big a part of the story as the struggles between the clans themselves. Being the backdrop to the romance, this adds a great dimension, making you feel the seeming utter hopelessness of Deirdre's future, as a woman in a "man's world".

Kudos to Mary Wine for creating a strong female role, that was willing to risk her life rather than submit, but also for an equally singleminded male character that could go toe-to-toe with such a woman. Highland Heat is a great read featuring the boldness of the Highland man and the stubbornness of the Highland woman, which when combined creates an unstoppable force.

Interview with Mary Wine, author of Highland Heat (and giveaway!)

2011-03-01T12:07:00.000-05:00

Today, I'm very pleased to welcome Mary Wine for a little Q&A session about her new book, Highland Heat, why we love highlanders, and various other topics. I have to say, I think this was the most fun I've had as I read through Mary's answers. It's funny when you have certain expectations, but are pleasantly surprised by reality. Curious? Well read on and see what I mean!

Jackie: Can you tell my readers a little about what to expect in Highland Heat?

MW: A scorching love story. These are the two who refused to bend in the two previous books. I could see them moving closer to one another but they are both independent. When I write a historical…I like to show just how strong the women where during these periods. Banish the idea of fainting maidens, you won’t find those in my books.

J: What is it about Highlanders that makes them so interesting to read about? Or, for that matter, to write about?

MW: Ah Highlanders….what an amazing people. Rome failed to conquer them. The Vikings settled among them. They live on land that is as beautiful as it is harsh. Their music is soul inspiring…what’s not to love? Mix in the lore and legend and it’s a wonderful place to write a book in.

J: You are a historic costumer. What time period(s) do you create costumes for? (Note: I’d love to add some pictures of Highland costumes, if available)

MW: I do Elizabethan, reign of Elizabeth the first, Victorian 1880, medieval, colonial and just about anything else I have a reason to make up a suit for. At the moment I’m working on an 1885-90 because I’m launching a Steam Punk saga. It really comes down to needing a dress for some event. I’m on the hunt for fabric for Tudor era gown too…

J: While you write different romance novels, spanning past, present and future, can/would you pick a favorite and why?

MW: My favorite is normally the one I’m working on, right after I get finished with it because normally during the process I’m ready to strangle my hero. Quinton was defiantly one of those but I love Highland Heat. I wanted to write Deidre’s tale but I knew it was going to be a challenge.

J: What is more difficult to write fighting scenes or the romantic interludes?

MW: Neither…at least for me. I’m a second degree black belt in Tae kwon Do. I get stuck between those scenes, when I need to move my characters around and all I want to do is jump ahead to the action…lol.

J: Have you visited the Scottish Highlands? If so, can you tell us a memorable experience?

MW: Not yet but I did have the opportunity to have lunch with a wonderful Scottish Highlander. It’s the truth that I met him in a bar, which was once a famous brothel. I was in Alaska and heard his brogue, turned around and there was a Highlander, off to see the wilds of Alaska like I was. He was a wonderful man, yes, he plays golf. For formal night aboard ship, he’d brought along his kilt and I had my Victorian bustle gown…they said formal but didn’t give a year mind you. We had a wonderful time in our finery.

HIGHLAND HEAT BY MARY WINE – IN STORES MARCH 2011

Ruined, Betrayed and Banished…

As brave as she is impulsive, Deirdre Chattan’s tendency to follow her heart and not her head has finally tarnished her reputation beyond repair. But when powerful Highland Laird Quinton Cameron finds her, he doesn’t care about her past—it’s her future he’s about to change.

But It’s Never Too Late for Redemption…

From the moment Quinton sets eyes on Deirdre Chattan, rational thought vanishes. For in her eyes he sees a fiery spirit that matches his own, and he’ll be damned if he’ll let such a wild Scottish rose wither under the weight of a nun’s habit…

With nothing to lose, Deirdre and Quinton band together to protect king and country. But what they accomplish alone is nothing compared to what they can build with their passion for each other…

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Mary Wine is a multi-published author in romantic suspense, fantasy and western romance; now her interest in historical reenactment and costuming has inspired her to turn her pen to historical romance. She lives with her husband and sons in southern California, where the whole family enjoys participating in historical reenactments. For more information, please visit http://www.marywine.com/.

As a special treat, thanks to Danielle at Source Books, I have 2 copies available as a giveaway, of Highland Heat. To enter, just leave a comment below with your e-mail info to contact if/when you win. You must be a follower to enter and it's open to US and Canadian addresses only. I'll draw for the winners on March 15, 2011 (so entries no later than midnight on the 14th). Good luck!

And thanks again to Mary for stopping by! It was a great pleasure.

Review: Tempestuous by Lesley Livingston

2011-02-23T15:20:00.000-05:00

"I don't love Sonny Flannery."

That's the lie Kelley Winslow told to protect the boy she loves from a power he doesn't know he possesses. Devastated, Sonny retreats—to a haven for Lost Fae that's hidden deep underneath New York City.

But Kelley's not about to let things end in heartbreak. To get Sonny back, she's got to find out who's after his magick—and how to use her own. She's got to uncover who's recruiting Janus Guards to murderously hunt innocent Faerie. She's got to help rebuild the shattered theater company she called family. And she's got to do it all without getting dangerously distracted by the Fennrys Wolf, whose legendary heart of stone seems to melt whenever he's around Kelley.

The intrigue and romance that began with Wondrous strange and Darklight come to a stormy head in Tempestuous, the breathtaking conclusion to Lesley Livingston's ravishing urban Faerie trilogy.

Tempestuous is the final book in Lesley Livingston's "urban faerie trilogy". Throughout the series Lesley has been consistent with her tying in of Shakespeare's work with this fantastic world she has created surrounding Kelley Winslow and Sonny Flannery. So much so, in fact, she makes the reader (that can't spout Shakespeare at will) feel slightly smarter for the experience.

I was happy to see a few familiar "faces" from Wondrous Strange reappear in Tempestuous, particularly Herne; it was neat to see how all of the characters blended into the conclusion. The part I struggled with most was reconnecting some of the mythology and circumstances involved in Wondrous Strange that played heavily into the storyline of Tempestuous. What would be great is to re-read this series, one book immediately after the other. The time frame between each installment did make me forget a few details, though Lesley does an admirable job of refreshing the reader's memory throughout.

There were elements that occurred in Darklight that had left me quite anxious to get right into Tempestuous: the possibility (however slim) of a love triangle, the mysterious actions of Fennrys, etc. All were tied up quite satisfactorily, though. For whatever reason, I didn't love this book as much as I did the first two. In Ms. Livingston's defense, this may only be because I not big on endings when I've come to love the story and the characters.

I truly enjoyed the parallel worlds created in this series. While Darklight's action happened, for the most part, in the faerie realm, Tempestuous brings us back into New York, Central Park, and some hidden locations around and under the Park. Lesley gives great descriptions, making the pureness of the Faerie courts vivid while contrasting it with the darker, scarier side of New York (mostly because of all the creatures running amuck.)

I also found an educational aspect, with regards to the many mythological beings that pop up in these books. I did have to look up a few, for instance the sylph. Ironically, I was reading a play by Alexander Pope at the same time, only to discover his use of this airy creature, also. So kudos, to Lesley and to Pope for teaching me a little something (Lesley's are bigger because she made it much more fun :-)

Ms Livingston has a style of writing that grabs your attention and keeps it. For this reason, I'm sure this will end up being one of those series that I will read again and again over time!

Interview with Lauren Oliver

2011-02-21T13:13:00.000-05:00

Yesterday, I posted my review of Lauren Oliver's latest novel, Delirium. Today, I'm happy to have Lauren on the blog for a little Q&A session. Please, give a warm welcome and let's see what Lauren has to say, in her own words!

Jackie: Please tell the readers a bit about what we can expect from Delirium?

Lauren: DELIRIUM is a novel about a world in which love has been declared a contagious disease. Scientists have invented a cure and the government has made it mandatory. The book tells the story of Lena, a seventeen-year-old on the verge of being cured.

J: Delirium is a dystopian novel, which is becoming increasingly popular (again?) in YA literature. Do you think this genre has taken over from the overwhelming amounts of vampire, angels and werewolf novels of recent years?

L:Oh, jeez. That’s so hard to say. I think both genres indicate that the popular imagination has been very dark of late. But I try very hard not to think too hard about trends, and what will stay in or out. It’s too stressful!

J: With Delirium being your sophomore effort, did you find it easier to get your ideas down on paper?

L: Definitely not! One of the things that kind of amazes me about writing is that it never gets any easier. In fact, sometimes I think it’s the reverse!

J: Before I Fall drew heavily on your own experiences in high school. Does Delirium share any parallels with your life or is it a complete departure from similarities?

L: Well, to be honest, there have been times in my life when I have very much wished that there was a cure for love! And Lena is a runner, as I am; I actually ran most of the routes described in DELIRIUM. And I certainly relate to the deep ambivalence Lena feels about love—its terrors and attractions.

J: Both Before I Fall and Delirium have been optioned for films. Are these projects in the infancy stage or are they full steam ahead? Will you have much input in the film versions?

L: Before I Fall is chugging along—Delirium is a little farther behind, as it has just been released. I’m lucky that the producers attached to my projects are very open, communicative people, and really committed to making a film that best represents the book. I therefore feel absolutely no fear about leaving it entirely in their hands!

J: For my Canadian readers, do you have any plans to tour in Canada with Delirium?

L: I would love to! I have no immediate plans to tour there, but I think it would be great, and I’m sure we can make it happen!

J: Have you already started on your next project? If so, can we have a sneak peek?

L: My next book is actually a middle-grade called LIESL & PO and it publishes this fall. And after that comes the sequel to Delirium, PANDEMONIUM. No sneak peeks allowed, but it is action-packed, I promise!

Thanks to Lauren for taking the time out to answer my questions; it was a great honour. Hopefully if you haven't read anything of Lauren's yet, you'll get on it ASAP!

Review: Delirium by Lauren Oliver

2011-02-20T13:40:00.001-05:00

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

But with ninety-five days left until her treatment, Lena does the unthinkable: She falls in love.

After reading Before I Fall, Lauren Oliver's first book, I knew one thing about this author: she can really stir up the emotions! (I'm still reeling from the ending of that book.) So, I found it curious that her latest book is labelled as "dystopian", which are typically devoid of emotion...at least out in the open.

But, with this genre, I think Lauren Oliver is a natural fit. Her main character, Lena, admits that she often feels like two different people, one on the inside and one on the outside. Living in a dystopian society, where the paranoia of always being watched is realized, these feelings are understandable, especially in this world that Oliver has created.

Lena is 17, almost 18, the age at which scientist have found a cure for the disease called love (in the book, it is named amor deliria nervosa). From that age, society chooses who you will be partnered with for, basically, propagation of the species. Random meetings, love at first sight, heartbreak, all these normal factors are replaced with scientific match-making (E-Harmony gone wild, as it were.)

So, here's what gets me: First, it seems science doesn't always get it right. Lena's knowledge of her mother's past is horrifying, at least to me. Second, if love is truly taken away before you have your children, they lose out on so much of the parental relationship; it's just heartbreaking to imagine.

Having said this, the emotions drawn out in the reader, especially the anxiety for these poor children living this way, is what makes me feel that Oliver's writing is spot on. She comes from a place of deep understanding of those delicate teen to adult years and the major decisions that are usually made during this time and twists them with all her might. Not to mention, of course, the nerve-racking first love that comes around that time also, (for most people.) All I can say is that I'm glad I don't have to go through all of that again!

Normally, the main story is what keeps you reading and wanting more, and that is very true here, but for me, the secondary characters in Delirium are no small part of this imaginary world. The best friend, Hana, and what role she will play in the future (I have my suspicions) and Lena's cousin, Grace (she has piqued my interest the most, I admit) will encourage me to keep reading this series (Delirium is book one of a trilogy.)

Having recently read Margaret Atwood's The Handmaid's Tale, I can see similarities in the way this world has been imagined with the border closures, scientific control, and the fringe element that is necessary for a small measure of hope. The main difference here, I think, is that this story is less of a commentary of society overall (though there is some of that) but more about the fragile inner workings of youth. Delirium is an awesome start to the series!

Review: The Sherlockian by Graham Moore

2011-02-17T10:00:00.000-05:00

In December 1893, Sherlock Holmes-adoring Londoners eagerly opened their Strand magazines, anticipating the detective's next adventure, only to find the unthinkable: his creator, Arthur Conan Doyle, had killed their hero off. London spiraled into mourning -- crowds sported black armbands in grief -- and railed against Conan Doyle as his assassin.

Then in 1901, just as abruptly as Conan Doyle had "murdered" Holmes in "The Final Problem," he resurrected him. Though the writer kept detailed diaries of his days and work, Conan Doyle never explained this sudden change of heart. After his death, one of his journals from the interim period was discovered to be missing, and in the decades since, has never been found.

Or has it?

When literary researcher Harold White is inducted into the preeminent Sherlock Holmes enthusiast society, The Baker Street Irregulars, he never imagines he's about to be thrust onto the hunt for the holy grail of Holmes-ophiles: the missing diary. But when the world's leading Doylean scholar is found murdered in his hotel room, it is Harold - using wisdom and methods gleaned from countless detective stories - who takes up the search, both for the diary and for the killer.

I love Sherlock Holmes. I became a fast fan after watching Jeremy Brett's portrayal of the famed detective through the 1990's, but I shamefully admit to not having actually read an original story until this past summer as part of a University course. Not having the time to continue reading Doyle's original canon at the moment, I was excited to hear about this book being released that offered concurrent investigations, albeit mysteries happening more than a century apart.

In The Sherlockian, we meet Harold White, the newest members to an organization called The Baker Street Irregulars. Quickly, Harold becomes embroiled in the modern day mystery of Doyle's missing diary. In the Doyle story line, we see what Moore's imaginative mind concocted as the potential content of said diary, as events unfold during the dates the missing journal would have involved, and we find another mystery to follow along.

I will admit, I had to invoke my 150 page rule on this one, for several reasons. First, Harold White is not the most vivacious character; definitely no Indian Jones, or, dare I say it? Sherlock Holmes. He's a tad dreary as a leading man. And from the start, Doyle's bitter resentment of Holmes overshadowing the real man, his author, becomes difficult to handle, especially for those (me) loving the fictional man so much. Secondly, it takes a bit of time to get into the real meat of each mystery as all of the pieces are put together slower than normal because of the two scenarios being built up to.

But, and it's a big one, once you do get into it, the characters and both stories come alive. Moore's portrayal of Harold is honest; he knows his weaknesses, his strengths, and his limits, but he pushes these, showing personal growth for the character and better understanding for the reader. As for Doyle, I was sympathetic to his plight of attempting to establish his own identity, separate from that of the man he'd created. Try as he may have done, I don't think he ever succeeded. He is still synonymous with creating the greatest detective that ever "lived". I can't say if that part of Moore's story was real, but it's definitely plausible.

Towards the end, the story departs from the mystery to become more of a social commentary of turn of the century England and of today, and why so many people the world over love the idea of living in Holmes' England. From the male perspective, you see the romanticized version of life during that time, which Harold offers up quite eloquently; from the female side, you learn stats about prostitution, suffrage, racism and how today's world is that much better for the struggles endured and overcome back then.

The author, in his revealing of the story and it's potential outcome, foreshadows his ultimate message with strategic quotes from Doyle and Stoker at the beginning of each chapter. It becomes quite sad, as there's a general sense of loss of grand times that have passed, of one particular person, once great in Doyle's life, that dies penniless and alone in Paris (Oscar Wilde). It was this part of the story that held my attention the most though. I loved the conversations between Stoker and Doyle, fictional though they may be, it would have been great to have been a fly on the wall as witness. Though Wilde is not an actual character in the book, his presence in the lives of the other two famous authors has a profound affect on the story.

Moore does a great job of piecing it all together with the exception of the mysteries. If you are looking for something comparable to an original Sherlock Holmes, this is not the book for that. Moore pulls out a rather shocking stunt involving Doyle that left me a little bewildered. Putting that aspect aside, it highlighted more about human truths, about what people are looking for and why, and, more to the point, the outcome may not always be as you expect or as neatly wrapped up as a Holmes mystery...but that's life.

As for a particular conversation envisioned by the author, Stoker laments that down the line, people will not remember Arthur Conan Doyle, Oscar Wilde, or Bram Stoker, and definitely not his count from that strange place on the continent, but they will remember Sherlock Holmes. I'm happy to argue the point with the fictional Stoker....if only they could see the continued successes of all of their work. Having gone off on my tangent here, it is because of Moore's ability to bring these people to life in a credible way that I will credit for my future interest in reading and re-reading their classic literature. The Sherlockian turned out to be different from my expectations, but in a very good way.

Giveaway! Death of a Chimney Sweep by M.C. Beaton

2011-02-10T09:00:00.000-05:00

I'm happy to have 3 copies of M.C. Beaton's latest Hamish MacBeth novel to offer my followers in a giveaway. Here's a bit about the book, which releases on Feb. 25, 2011:

In the south of Scotland, residents get their chimneys vacuum-cleaned. But in the isolated villages in the very north of Scotland, the villagers rely on the services of the itinerant sweep, Pete Ray, and his old-fashioned brushes. Pete is always able to find work in the Scottish highlands, until one day when Police Constable Hamish Macbeth notices blood dripping onto the floor of a villager's fireplace, and a dead body stuffed inside the chimney. The entire town of Lochdubh is certain Pete is the culprit, but Hamish doesn't believe that the affable chimney sweep is capable of committing murder. Then Pete's body is found on the Scottish moors, and the mystery deepens. Once again, it's up to Hamish to discover who's responsible for the dirty deed—and this time, the murderer may be closer than he realizes.

To enter,you must be a follower and comment below, telling me who your favourite crime solver is. Remember include your e-mail addy so I can contact you if you win. The giveaway is open to U.S. and Canadian addresses only and winners will be drawn on Feb. 25th using random.org (entries must be in no later than the 24th). Best of luck to all!

Giveaway! Sins of the House of Borgia by Sarah Bower

2011-02-09T11:44:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Beth at Sourcebooks, I'm happy to offer up a galley of Sins of the House of Borgia to one of my lucky followers! Here's a little about the book:

In 1492, when Ferdinand and Isabella expel the Jews from Spain, six year old Esther Sarfati finds herself travelling to Rome to join her father, a successful banker who has helped his fellow Spaniard, Rodrigo Borgia, finance his bid for the Papacy. Nine years later, as Pope Alexander VI, he repays the favour by offering Esther a place in the household of his daughter, Lucrezia, who is about to marry Alfonso d'Este, heir to the Duchy of Ferrara. Against her own better judgement, but in accordance with her father's wishes for her future, Esther converts to Christianity and enters Lucrezia's service as lady-in-waiting. Flattered by Lucrezia's favour, seduced by the friendship of her cousin, Angela Borgia and swept off her feet by Lucrezia's glamorous and dangerous brother, Cesare, she is drawn into a web of intrigue and deceit which will test her heart to its utmost and burden her with secrets she must carry to her grave. Set against the glittering background of the court of Ferrara in the early sixteenth century, this is the heart-breaking story of what happens to an innocent abroad in the world of the Borgias.

To enter, just leave a comment below and tell me which is your favourite era in history/historical fiction to read about. Also, include an e-mail address where you can be contacted if/when you win. (Please note, you must be a follower to enter.) Contest runs until March 1, 2011 and is open to U.S. and Canadian addresses only. Winner will be drawn using random.org. Good luck to everyone :-)

P.S. If you don't happen to win, you can purchase this book once it releases on March 8, 2011.

More free e-books...it's a free reading weekend!

2011-02-05T10:04:00.000-05:00

Sourcebooks has done it again! They are offering up 3 free e-books this weekend for all to enjoy. You can access these books through the Sourcebooks store or follow the links from their site to other retailers. While you're at the store, remember to sign up for their newsletter also, to find out more about upcoming releases ans more special deals like these :-)

Here's what they're offering:

Lydia Bennet's Story by Janet Odiwe

Lydia Bennet is the flirtatious, wild and free-wheeling youngest daughter. Her untamed expressiveness and vulnerability make her fascinating to readers who’ll love this imaginative rendering of Lydia’s life after her marriage to the villainous George Wickham. Will she mature or turn bitter? Can a girl like her really find true love?

In Lydia Bennet’s Story we are taken back to Jane Austen’s most beloved novel, Pride and Prejudice, to a Regency world seen through Lydia’s eyes where pleasure and marriage are the only pursuits. But the road to matrimony is fraught with difficulties and even when she is convinced that she has met the man of her dreams, complications arise. When Lydia is reunited with the Bennets, Bingleys, and Darcys for a grand ball at Netherfield Park, the shocking truth about her husband may just cause the greatest scandal of all ...

Janet's new release, Mr. Darcy’s Secret, just came out on February 1^st

Love at First Flight by Marie Force

What if the guy in the airplane seat next to you turned out to be the love of your life?

Juliana, happy in her career as a hair stylist, is on her way to visit her boyfriend of ten years who's working out of state. She's wondering why they're not engaged yet. Michael is going to his fiance's parents' home for an engagement party he doesn't want. A states' prosecutor, he's about to try the biggest case of his career, he hates the distraction, and he's having doubts about the relationship.

They sit together on the plane, and discover they're on the same flight coming back. When the weekend is a disaster for each of them, they bond on the plane ride home. But life is full of complications, including their exes, who don't want to let go, and when Michael's trial turns dangerous, the two must confront what they value most in life...

Marie's new release, Everyone Loves a Hero, just came out on February 1^st

The Greatest Knight by Elizabeth Chadwick

Royal protector. Loyal servant. Forgotten hero.

A penniless young knight with few prospects, William Marshal is plucked from obscurity when he saves the life of Henry II's formidable queen, Eleanor of Aquitaine. In gratitude, she appoints him tutor to the heir to the throne, the volatile and fickle Prince Henry. But being a royal favorite brings its share of danger and jealousy as well as fame and reward.

A writer of uncommon historical integrity and accuracy, Elizabeth Chadwick resurrects the true story of one of England's greatest forgotten heroes in a captivating blend of fact and fiction. The Greatest Knight restores William Marshal to his rightful place at the pinnacle of the Middle Ages, reflecting through him the triumphs, scandals, and power struggles that haven't changed in eight hundred years.

Elizabeth's highly anticipated release, To Defy a King, will be released March 1^st

And, you can still download Dreaming Anastasia for free until Feb, 7th:

Dreaming Anastasia by Joy Preble

What really happened to Anastasia Romanov?

Anastasia Romanov thought she would never feel more alone than when the gunfire started and her family began to fall around her. Surely the bullets would come for her next. But they didn't. Instead, two gnarled old hands reached for her. When she wakes up she discovers that she is in the ancient hut of the witch Baba Yaga, and that some things are worse than being dead.

In modern-day Chicago, Anne doesn't know much about Russian history. She is more concerned about getting into a good college—until the dreams start. She is somewhere else. She is someone else. And she is sharing a small room with a very old woman. The vivid dreams startle her, but not until a handsome stranger offers to explain them does she realize her life is going to change forever. She is the only one who can save Anastasia. But, Anastasia is having her own dreams…

Free ebook: Dreaming Anastasia by Joy Preble

2011-02-01T11:03:00.000-05:00

Who doesn't love a free ebook? I know I do now that I have my very own e-reader (I'm a bit behind in tech ownership but hopefully catching up quickly!) That's why I was excited to get this in an e-mail from Paul at Sourcebook Fire:

"I have some great news for you! If you are excited about Joy Preble’s Haunted but haven’t read Dreaming Anastasia we’re making it available for free!

You can DOWNLOAD Dreaming Anastasia for FREE from Feb. 1^st to Feb. 7^th—wherever eBooks are sold—in celebration of the launch of Haunted."

This is very cool. And, of course, first thing this morning I was trying to download the ebook from the store at Sourcebooks. Unfortunately, it looks like they may have some glitches in their system as I kept getting kicked out. I've emailed them to let the know what's happening and hopefully will be able to download it later today. In the meantime, here is the book blurb from Sourcebooks:

What really happened to Anastasia Romanov?

Anastasia Romanov thought she would never feel more alone than when the gunfire started and her family began to fall around her. Surely the bullets would come for her next. But they didn't. Instead, two gnarled old hands reached for her. When she wakes up she discovers that she is in the ancient hut of the witch Baba Yaga, and that some things are worse than being dead.

In modern-day Chicago, Anne doesn't know much about Russian history. She is more concerned about getting into a good college—until the dreams start. She is somewhere else. She is someone else. And she is sharing a small room with a very old woman. The vivid dreams startle her, but not until a handsome stranger offers to explain them does she realize her life is going to change forever. She is the only one who can save Anastasia. But, Anastasia is having her own dreams…

US residents can click here to redeem this offer at Barnes & Noble or Amazon . And, just updated is Kobo available in Canada and the US!

Review: Darklight by Lesley Livingston

2011-01-28T10:43:00.000-05:00

Hardcover, 312 pages
Published December 22nd 2009 by HarperTeen
ISBN13: 9780061575402

Much has changed since autumn, when Kelley Winslow learned she was a Faerie princess, fell in love with changeling guard Sonny Flannery, and saved the mortal realm from the ravages of the Wild Hunt.

Now Kelley is stuck in New York City, rehearsing Romeo and Juliet and missing Sonny more with every stage kiss, while Sonny has been forced back to the Otherworld and into a deadly game of cat and mouse with the remaining Hunters and Queen Mabh herself.

When a terrifying encounter sends Kelley tumbling into the Otherworld, her reunion with Sonny is joyful but destined to be cut short. An ancient, hidden magick is stirring, and a dangerous new enemy is willing to risk everything to claim that power.

Caught in a web of Faerie deception and shifting allegiances, Kelley and Sonny must tread carefully, for each next step could topple a kingdom . . . or tear them apart.

With breathtakingly high stakes, the talented Lesley Livingston delivers soaring romance and vividly magical characters in Darklight, the second novel in the trilogy that began with Wondrous Strange.

I read Wondrous Strange last year and really enjoyed it but for some reason, I didn't jump right into Darklight right away. I think I had too much on the go at the time. But then I got Tempestuous, the last book in this series by Lesley Livingston, for review and I knew I had to catch up with what was happening with Kelley Winslow, Sonny Flannery, et al. Am I ever glad I did!

Reading Darklight reminded me why I had been captivated with the first book: the way Ms. Livingston writes. These books are considered Young Adult, but I don't find the writing overly simplistic, nor are the scenarios involved, drawn with no small measure of tribute to Shakespeare, dull. The story moves from modern day New York to the Otherworld quite seamlessly. It's in the descriptions that the author outdoes herself; you can almost feel the difference in the contrasts of the "concrete jungle" versus the lush, verdant Summer Court or the icy majesty of the Winter Court, and so on. This lends some credence to the legends of mortals being tricked into Faery submission. Really, who wouldn't want to live in such a magickal place, where death is rare?

With a blend of New Yorkers and Faery royalty, Livingston will competently maintain the pompous talk of Kings and Queens, then throw in a word like "ass-hat" that makes you giggle at the juxtaposition. I found her use of metaphors quite entertaining also. She writes on page 227, "So many thoughts and questions tumbled about in her head like puzzle pieces in a box shaken by a child who just wanted to hear them rattle." This is a fantastic image and avoids the typical reference to "deafening silence" etc.

It has been a while since reading Wondrous Strange, but I think I liked Darklight better than the first. Maybe the climactic scene at the theatre or the mystery surrounding Fennrys or Auberon's ailment or the hooded figure's identity, or the combination of all of these that made this an exciting read. Being the middle book of a series can sometimes be a detriment, but not in Darklight's case. It has plenty to keep you interested, not just acting as a bridge to the last book (though there is some bridging of the story involved).

I'm not sure that I would recommend it as a stand alone book, but that's just because I love this series and I think everyone should read all of the books as soon as possible. I give Lesley Livingston two very large thumbs up, and move on to Tempestuous with a bit of a heavy heart as I know the story will end there.

To get a little more info on Tempestuous (and its author), my interview with Lesley can be found here.

Review and Guest Post: Queen of Last Hopes by Susan Higginbotham

2011-01-21T14:42:00.000-05:00

It would be called the Wars of the Roses, but it all began with one woman's fury...

Margaret of Anjou, Queen of England, cannot give up on her husband-even when he goes insane. And as mother to the House of Lancaster's last hope, she cannot give up on her son-even when all England turns against him. This gripping tale of a queen is at its heart a tender tale of love: passionate, for her husband, and motherly, for her only son.

Having delved into the history of Britain quite a bit recently, I was very much looking forward to reading about Margaret of Anjou and her role in the War of the Roses. I have read a version of the story from the (ficticious) perspective of Margaret Beaufort, but to get a better picture of things, you need to look at all sides involved. I do believe this was the perfect book to illustrate the struggles of the doomed Henry VI and his Queen!

Ms. Higginbotham does a masterful job of presenting characters that are likeable (or in some cases, detestable) within realistic boundaries. It must be an interesting job to research the real people involved and all the historical "truths" available to us today. But, on the other hand, it would be quite daunting to expound on these people while maintaining the overall credibility. I found that some of the those involved in this story were portrayed in a sympathetic manner, where popular beliefs may disagree with this author's view or portrayal, for instance William de la Pole. When it all boils down though, this story was the beginning of a war with factions involved, and alliances would still be argued one way or the other, even today.

I was immediately drawn to Margaret of Anjou, her innocence, her growth and her sense of humour. Unfortunately, this makes it that much harder to relive her story throughout these pages. Ultimately, one cannot change history, but what Ms. Higginbotham succeeded at in Queen of Last Hopes, was offer a compelling version with a lot of heart and no small amount of tears from me.

And now a special treat for my readers! Please give a big welcome to Susan Higginbotham, who is here today to give the inside scoop on how she was able to write this story from the perspective of the former Queen of England:

When I started writing The Queen of Last Hopes: The Story of Margaret of Anjou, I chose to tell most of Margaret’s story through her own first-person narrative. How did I find a voice for Margaret?

Margaret of Anjou was queen to Henry VI and one of the leading figures in the so-called Wars of the Roses that ravaged fifteenth-century England. She left behind a number of business letters, most from the early years of her husband’s reign. They show the young queen’s energy and attention to detail, and her interest in activities such as hunting, but they reveal very little of Margaret’s inner life.

It was the last document Margaret executed—her will—where I finally felt her speak to me. Written at her borrowed lodgings in France about three weeks before her death in August 1482, the will is a simple one, reflecting the relative poverty of a woman who had gambled and lost all. There are no expressions of regret and no reflections on past glory. There are no affectionate words or bequests to loved ones, for almost everyone who mattered to Margaret—her only son, her husband, her parents—had predeceased her. Margaret simply requests that her debts be paid and that her servants receive their wages. She then asks that the French king, her heir, pay these obligations “should my few goods be insufficient to do this, as I believe they are.”

Yet in this short will (which can be seen at http://www.susanhigginbotham.com/subpages/lastwillanjou.html), Margaret does show a spark of defiance. In the opening line, she styles herself as “reyne d'Angleterre”—Queen of England. It was a title she had lost eleven years before in the bloody field of Tewkesbury where her son perished and the Lancastrian cause seemed permanently extinguished, yet in her last written statement, she allowed herself the small satisfaction of using it. Dying and destitute, she nonetheless refused at the very last to concede total defeat.

This was the Margaret—stoic and reconciled to her fate, yet with some of her old pride remaining—who narrates The Queen of Last Hopes. This was the Margaret who lent my novel her voice.

Review: First Step 2 Forever by Justin Bieber

2011-01-19T11:25:00.000-05:00

Billed as "100% Official," this very generously illustrated autobiography chronicles the early years and dizzying success of this teen-pop heartthrob in his own words and pictures. The staggering dimensions of his story should silence any skepticism about the worth of any autobiography of a 16-year-old#58; Since being discovered just three years ago, this small-town Ontario boy has gone platinum with his first album; drawn more than 70 million YouTube hits and four million Twitter followers; and caused crowd scenes and near riots on his World Tour. Sometimes just too cute for words.

Before you all collectively roll your eyes at further Justin Bieber exposure, read on to find out why I think this book is a worthwhile investment.

On a typical day, a conversation with my 8 year old daughter goes like this:

Daughter: "Mom, what's Justin Bieber's favourite ice cream?"

Me: "HOW WOULD I KNOW THAT??!"

My dad: "It's chocolate."

Me: How do you know that?!"

My Dad: "I saw it on TV..."

Daughter: "Yay! Same as me!"

So, as much as I would be rolling my own eyes at yet another JB product, I like that fact that I can now say: "go check the book for the answer" to my daughter (and pray that all her questions can be answered by this resource, lol.)

Aside from that, it has tons of great pictures in it AND lots to read. Unfortunately, my daughter is still at the age that she likes to read out loud. This can be a double edged sword in that she will sit down and read First Step 2 Forever for 20-30 minutes at a time (which is great!) but I have to hear it too. Gosh, the things we do for our kids....

It is not at an easy reading level for her but it pushes her skills and her interest in new words (okay, so she has learned sexy and pimp-mobile from it, but those are nothing that she hasn't since seen on public bathroom walls, but that's a story for another day...)

In the end, I think, if your child is a fan, this book is a must-have for their collection, not just to have but to further their interest in reading in a parentally devious way, also ;-)

If you are still unconvinced, here are some sample readings from the book. Enjoy:

Waiting on Wednesday - Jan. 19, 2011

2011-01-19T09:58:00.000-05:00

Waiting on Wednesday is weekly event is hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine where we get to share which upcoming reads/new releases that we just can't wait to get our hands on. Looking back through my blog posts, I haven't participated in this meme since March 2010! There are so many upcoming books that I'm anxious to read that I figured it was time to start sharing them again.

My pick for this week is:

Red Glove by Holly Black

Red Glove is part of The Curse Workers series (my review for White Cat can be found here). I'm curious to see how this story will continue with the rich characters and dark world created in the first book; there is just so much deception and intrigue involved that keeping Cassel (mostly) honest will be a difficult task, I think.

It's set to release April 5, 2011 from Margaret K. McElderry (a division of Simon & Schuster)

Interview with Lesley Livingston!

2011-01-17T15:20:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Shannon at Harper Collins Canada, I was given the opportunity to interview Lesley Livingston, author of Wondrous Strange, Darklight, and, most recently, Tempestuous. I met Lesley at a book signing last year, so I know she's a vibrant, fun woman (and Canadian also ;-). What fascinates me is this author's ability to make readers almost giddy to read Shakespeare again! (Not many can take credit for that feat.) Lesley's enthusiasm is contagious, I think....but read on and see for yourself:

Can you tell the readers a bit about what to expect from Tempestuous?

Well… I don’t want to be all spoilery for anyone so… in no particular order, I’ll just list a few things readers can expect. Things that may or may not occur in this book: kissing, heartbreak, turmoil, kick-assery, Shakespeare, reunions, separations, reconciliations, vengeance, retribution, redemption, betrayal, kissing, magick, humour, hi-jinx, shenanigans, fighting, battles, skirmishes, fisticuffs, feathers, true love, heartache, blood, sweat, tears, flying, singing, and pretzels with mustard.

Will King Auberon ever show his nice side? Wait! Does he even have one?

Auberon is certainly a… shall we say… multi-faceted character. He has a nice side—I guarantee it. He may even have already shown it. The problem is that, his “nice” side might not exactly resemble what the average person thinks of as “nice”. With Faerie—especially High Fae—it’s always a bit tricky trying to figure out precisely what’s going on in their minds. There. How’s that for a perfectly straightforward answer?

The portal between the human and the Faery Otherworld is in Central Park, but you mention others too. Are any of them in Canada, and if so, where?

There are Four Gates between the Otherworld and the mortal realm and they correspond with the four points of the Celtic calendar. They are—or at least, when they were open, they were—movable, which is why one of them ended up in the middle of New York City. Another is in Ireland, and one is located at Stonehenge. But there is one Gate that I only ever describe as existing in “the far north”. I never specify the far north of where. And there is, after all, a strong tradition of faerie culture in the Canadian Maritimes, so it’s a definite possibility. I suppose I could be a little less obscure with my answer, but the Faerie do like to keep their secrets… and I really don’t want them mad at me!

With your background in Arthurian legend and in Shakespeare's work, how much additional research did you have to do for the books? Was there anything new you learned?

I learned a lot! Mostly about the history and background behind the design and construction of Central Park at the turn of the century. I had to do quite a bit of research into that aspect of the story, and it was fascinating! I was pretty solid on my Shakespeare and the hints of Arthurian lore I used but, even still, there was always some surprising bit of faerie trivia, or a line in one of the plays, or some obscure nugget of folkloric detail that I would stumble across that would enrich the story—or suddenly make something make perfect sense. Discovering certain aspects of leprechaun lore, for instance, was enormously helpful when it came time to deal with those guys. And they had to be dealt with extremely carefully, it turns out! Just ask Sonny…

What is your favourite Shakespearean role to play?

Ooh… tough question! In the comedies, it’s Beatrice from Much Ado About Nothing! Smart, sassy, and surprisingly vulnerable. In the tragedies… well, Juliet was wonderful to play, but so was her Nurse (not in the same production—heh!). And then there’s Ophelia, and Lady Macbeth… I mean, let’s face it: any time you have the opportunity to go stark raving bonkers on stage, well—there’s almost nothing more fun than that! Ariel was a joy to play, too—although I think I still have glitter-dust floating around in my lungs, even after all these years, because of that show!

With your company, the Tempest Theatre Group, have you ever had to act in a male role?

I did, actually! I played the Boy in the Henry V and it was huge fun. I got to be in all the battle scenes and had a quarter-staff fight (I love stage combat)… and then got my throat cut horribly at the end when the French soldiers kill all the luggage boys. Henry then carried my poor limp, lifeless (stage-bloodied) body down to centre stage where all the hardened warriors wept over me and then sang Non Nobis… all very poignant!

What is your take on the conspiracy theory of Shakespeare's identity?

Shakespeare was Shakespeare. His “true” identity never came into question until the 19th century and all that speculation has always struck me as a mostly hot air. I’m still not sure why everyone thinks it’s such a stretch to believe that the guy was who he was, regardless of education or social standing. He just happened to be a freakin’ genius, that’s all.

With Tempestuous being the final book in this trilogy, do you have your next project planned out? Can we have a hint?

Well, my very next project is a YA time travel adventure called ONCE EVERY NEVER, about a modern teen girl who spirals back in time to Rome's bloody conquest of Britain—where she befriends the daughter of a fiery queen, falls for a fierce warrior prince, and discovers that she may be the only hope of averting a devastating blood-curse. It’s great fun—and there are flaming arrows!

I’m also hard at work on another trilogy called STARLING and… all I can say is, if you’re a fan of the WONDROUS STRANGE books… you should probably keep an eye out for these in 2012! Yes. Yes, you should.

Thank you for such fun questions!

I want to say thanks again to Lesley for taking the time to answer my questions. I hope that her answers have inspired any of you out there that haven't picked her books to do so...and soon! I'll be posting my reviews of Darklight and Tempestuous shortly, so keep an eye out for them. In the meantime, you can click on the book covers below for Harper Collins Canada's "Browse Inside" feature, and get a taste of what you've been missing, as well as check out the teaser trailer for Tempestuous. As for me, I off to hunt down a warm pretzel with some mustard. Thanks for stopping by!

Review: The Education of Hailey Kendrick by Eileen Cook

2011-01-14T15:37:00.001-05:00

Product Details:
Simon Pulse, January 2011
Hardcover, 272 pages
ISBN-10: 1442413255
ISBN-13: 9781442413252
Grades: 9 and up

Hailey Kendrick always does exactly what's expected of her. She has the right friends, dates the perfect boy, gets good grades, and follows all the rules. But one night, Hailey risks everything by breaking a very big rule in a very public way...and with a very unexpected partner in crime. Hailey gets caught, but her accomplice does not, and Hailey takes the fall for both of them.

Suddenly, Hailey's perfect life--and her reputation--are blowing up in her face. Her friends are all avoiding her. Her teachers don't trust her. Her boyfriend won't even speak to her for long enough to tell her that she's been dumped.

They say honesty is the best policy--but some secrets are worth keeping, no matter the cost. Or are they?

From the first chapter, I really enjoyed the flow of Eileen Cook's writing. There was a great balance of teen elements that did not seem either so harsh or so pure that they were unrealistic. I also really liked the main character here. Despite attending an elite school, Hailey was focused on a real career. She was aware of having privileges but wasn't one to flaunt them. This fictional character felt genuine to me....complete with fallabilities.

With Hailey doing her best to keep a tight lip on her own feelings and trying to please everyone else, it was only a matter of time before it all blew up. I think this made her easy to identify with... at least for me. The problem with this type of person...the one that holds it all inside...is that when it lets loose, that fallout can be dangerous. I was actually ticked off with Hailey for how her actions affected Tristan; he seemed like such a nice guy!

But, in the end, Hailey had her own lessons to learn and part of it was that, sometimes, other people get hurt and you can't avoid it forever. It was fun to watch this learning curve in action, though. The character of Drew was a very welcome addition to the mix. The Education of Hailey Kendrick was, for me, a quick, enjoyable read with some quirky humour and lots of relatable emotions.

In the news...

2011-01-13T15:47:00.000-05:00

A while back it was announced that Little, Brown would be releasing The Twilight Saga: The Official Illustrated Guide on April 12, 2011. Their description of the book includes:

This definitive encyclopedic reference to the Twilight Saga is the only official guide and is full color throughout, including nearly 100 full-color illustrations and photographs.

Now, there's more exciting news for the die-hard Twilight fans! Here is the Press Release:

TORONTO (January 12, 2011) – Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, a division of Hachette Book Group, will host a special International Fan Event, featuring Twilight fans from around the world. Ten fans will be chosen to have a once-in-a-lifetime intimate meeting with international bestselling author Stephenie Meyer. The event coincides with the upcoming release of The Twilight Saga: The Official Illustrated Guide (April 12, 2011; $26.99).

Little, Brown is partnering with the Twilight Saga publishers in Brazil, China, France, Germany, Italy, Mexico, Taiwan and the United Kingdom to bring together each country’s respective Twilight fan. The fan selected from each country will receive an advance copy of The Official Illustrated Guide and get to talk extensively with Meyer, who will answer their Twilight-related questions.

“The one thing I miss most about my first book tour was the chance I had then to spend quality time with my readers,” said Meyer. “At an event with just ten or twenty people, I was able to get to know everyone a little bit. I could also more effectively answer each person’s questions. I’m so excited to have that opportunity again, and to get to spend time with fans from many different places and backgrounds.”

“We receive hundreds of travel requests for Stephenie from our foreign publishing partners every year,” said Megan Tingley, Senior Vice President and Publisher of Little, Brown Books for Young Readers. “Since it is physically impossible for one author to be in so many places, we thought this would be a great way to bring some fans to her.”

The Official Rules for the sweepstakes to select the fan from Canada (as well as one from the US), including entry details and eligibility requirements, can be found on TheTwilightSaga.com.

Due to the intimate nature of this event, details regarding the location and timing are being kept confidential. Photos and additional details will be distributed upon the event’s conclusion.

The Twilight Saga: The Official Illustrated Guide provides readers with exclusive new material and everything they need to further explore the unforgettable world Stephenie Meyer created in Twilight, New Moon, Eclipse, Breaking Dawn and The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner. The Guide also includes character profiles, outtakes, a conversation with Meyer, genealogical charts, maps, extensive cross-references, and much more. Originally announced as “The Official Guide,” The Twilight Saga: The Official Illustrated Guide includes illustrations from several artists, including Young Kim, the illustrator behind the #1 New York Times bestselling Twilight: The Graphic Novel, Volume 1.

In five years, Stephenie Meyer has become a worldwide publishing phenomenon. The Twilight Saga’s translation rights have been sold in nearly 50 countries and 116 million copies have been sold worldwide.

Hachette Book Group (HBG) is a leading trade publisher based in New York and a division of Hachette Livre, the second-largest publisher in the world. HBG publishes under the divisions of Little, Brown and Company, Little Brown Books for Young Readers, Grand Central Publishing, FaithWords, Center Street, Orbit, and Hachette Digital.

What an opportunity! Go check out the website for more info, or enter from here:
US residents or Canadian residents. Good luck!

Review: The Poison Eaters by Holly Black

2011-01-10T13:15:00.000-05:00

Book details:
Margaret K. McElderry, March 2011
Trade Paperback, 224 pages
ISBN-10: 1442412321
ISBN-13: 9781442412323
Grades: 9 and up

Description:

A dark and fantastic collection of stories from the author of Tithe and The Spiderwick Chronicles.

First Impression:
Is the smiling girl on the cover responsible for the death of the boy in the bottom left corner? (Yes, I thought it was a boy but after reading the story, I know I was wrong.)

Lasting Impression?:
Holly Black is one macabre, twisted author...and I like it!

Overall:

Two of the stories are original to this collection, the others having been previously printed in various compilations. But let me tell you, Holly Black leaves no supernatural stone unturned here. Lovestruck faeries, vampires, werewolves are just a few of the characters featured in The Poison Eaters. My favourite story involved a young man looking for his girlfriend in an unusual place. I like books, I mean I really like them, but perhaps not as much as this woman did!

For me, I liked the constant change of pace. You were never in the same location twice; one story was somewhere in the Philippines then another in the underbelly of a big city, and so on. The characters were surprising and, sometimes, quite dark.

I think the short story is an excellent platform for this author in particular. While some of the stories told an entire tale and ended with a satisfactory conclusion, others left enough mystery about the eventual outcome of the people involved to make you want more. Ms. Black leaves you mystified but most definitely sated.

Book trailer: Desires of the Dead by Kimberly Derting

2011-01-05T12:18:00.000-05:00

I think for me, Desires of the Dead by Kimberly Derting is my most anticipated book for 2011. I really enjoyed The Body Finder and can't wait to get my hands on this next book in the series. Though the release date (according to Goodreads) isn't scheduled until Feb. 15, 2011, I'm happy to share the book trailer here as a bit of a teaser. I hope you enjoy :-)