Wednesday 28 September 2011

Guest Blog Post by Jana Oliver on Writing Different Genres



In conjunction with my review of Forbidden (link to follow soon), Jana has very kindly written a blog post about her views on writing different genres. I'd like to thank Jana for an insightful post, and totally encourage you to go read about Riley's adventures in The Demon Trapper series! 

Writing Different Genres

Some authors write in only one portion of the fictional playground while others hop around and check out other parts of the sandbox to see what's fun and new. I'm one of the latter and to date I've written paranormal romance, medieval fantasy, a curious genre-blend of science fiction, fantasy, mystery and alternate history as well as young adult urban fantasies. 

For me the genre isn't as important as the story, though I'm sure others might disagree. We seem to have this need to categorize things and segregating books into genres allows bookstores to shelve their stock in separate sections, the visual equivalent of 'if you like this kind of book you'll enjoy all these others next to it.' 

Each genre has its own tropes or rules of the road as it were. A 'true' romance is expected to have a HEA (happy ever after) or, as a nod to the times we live in, a HFN (happy for now). Fantasy often involves complicated world building, a heroic quest and perhaps an epic battle between good vs evil (think Lord of the Rings). Science fiction might explore one man's (or woman's) fight against technology or against an unjust dystopian society. Mystery often has the classic 'who dunnit?' premise or a hunt for a MacGuffin (something that characters are willing to sacrifice everything to obtain.) 

All this labeling is secondary to the process of writing the actual story. When I switch from one genre to another I keep those basic rules in the back of my mind but I do not let them hinder me. This is why I often end up with genre-blended stories. An excellent example is my Demon Trappers Series which is a merry mix of fantasy (demons, agnels, necromances and witches) along with romance and mystery. Because it's set in 2018 Atlanta it could also be considered alternate history. I am not afraid to blend those genre rules, playing with them to tease out a more dynamic storyline. 

When I write I don't focus on one genre or the other. It's not until after the first or second draft I begin to see the individual genre threads. I usually weave in a few of the standard mystery elements (red herrings, double crosses, such as that). I'll examine the romantic thread to determine if I've given it enough weight and that the hero and heroine are moving forward, that their relationship is implausible. When it comes to the fantastical elements, I have to ensure my world building is solid and that I follow my own rules. If I say that Holy Water is a means to keep your house safe from demons, then that has to hold all the way through the series unless there is a legitimate reason that's not the case. I have to be very careful not to change my own rules to bend the story in a new direction. 

A well crafted genre tale is a joy to read. You can immerse yourself in the prose or 'fall through the hole in the paper' as Stephen King would say. As an author, employing various genre conventions to build my book is like mixing a great cocktail. So make mine a double: a shot of mystery, a splash of fantasy, and a dash of romance. Oh, and one o those cool little umbrellas would be nice as well. 



Macmillan Children's Books (U.K. Editions)

Demon Trappers: Forsaken - Jan. 2011
Demon Trappers: Forbidden - Aug. 2011
Demon Trappers: Forgiven - March 2012

Forbidden by Jana Oliver (Young Adult, Urban Fantasy)


August 2011, MacMillan 
424 pages, Paperback
Review copy

Young Adult, Paranormal

Themes: demons - both funny and terrifying, necromancers, angels, devils, trying to lead a normal life, grief, relationships - true/failed/muddled, poverty, trying to fit in, life changes happening all at once, spunk, weapons, inner strength, mild to moderate romance, lots of thrills and violence, a lot of laughs, tissues needed. 

Summary from Pan MacMillan
Riley's beginning to think being a demon trapper isn't all it's cracked up to be. Her dad's been stolen by a necromancer, her boyfriend's gone all weird and she's getting warm and fuzzy feelings for someone who is seriously bad news. It's tempting to give it all up and try to be normal, but that's not an option. 

Because the demons have plans for Riley. 

And they're not the only ones. 

Nayuleska's reasons for loving Riley...she feels easy to relate to with her love of hot chocolate and how she views life. She stuffs up a lot, gets hurt terribly but there's a fiery stubbornness which keeps her going. 

Is there another character who deserves a mention? Mortimer may be a necromancer but he has some good in him which he shows to Riley. 

How evil/nasty is the enemy? Absolutely terrifying, as it is after Riley and has already killed and injured a lot of people on the way to her. 

Are there lots of plot twists and surprises? Most of the twists affected Riley on an emotional level which had me wanted to save her from it all. 

One of my favourite parts was...whenever Riley had hot chocolate (with cream!), for no matter what was happening around her she always had time for the best drink ever invented. 

Naturally this gets 10/10 for its realism and for having a protagonist who is fun to know. 

Be sure to find out more about Riley's life, as well as Jana's own life on her website

Suggested read
If you after adventure with death and demons, try Rachel Vincent's My Soul To Take 


Tuesday 27 September 2011

Between by Jessica Warman (Young Adult, thriller)


3rd October 2011, Egmont
438 pages, Paperback
Review copy 

Young Adult, thriller

Themes: high school life, driving, substance abuse, the IT crowd, perfection, secrets, rumours, darker side of humanity, selfishness, ignorance about the world and others, tragedy, glimmers of happiness, boots, some teen romance scenes (mild to strong), tissues needed

Book blurb
'It's funny,' Alex says. 'I always thought you guys had such simple, perfect lives. Everything seemed so  easy for you'. 

Elizabeth Vachar is young, beautiful and popular. Everything is right in her expensive, glossy life...until the night of her eighteenth birthday party on her parents' yaught. A persistent thumping sound from outside the boat wakes her. 

What Liz finds changes everything she thought she knew about her life, her friends, and what lies- between 

Nayuleska's reasons for loving Liz...I didn't. I hated her for at least 1/5 of the book. She's a mean girl. However, when she figures a few things out I did relent a bit. 

Is there another character who deserves a mention? Alex. Once you've read the book, you'll understand why. 

How evil/nasty is the enemy? Substances are often dangerous and can have both subtle and major effects on people, which can be devastating. Plus rumour is a hideous monster, generating seeds of doubt which can really stuff a person's life up. 

Are there plenty of plot twists and surprises? Sort of. I spent the first 1/5 of the book bored and wondering why I was reading - it wasn't that bad, it was just a bit slower than I'd have liked. But eventually the pace quickened, and I was totally hooked. I had actually guessed one of the major twists, so it wasn't that much of a surprise. I guess it was the smaller twists which I hadn't guessed that were interesting. 

One of my favourite parts was...the end, just because suddenly everything made sense. 

Taking into account my difficulty in getting engrossed in the book, I'm giving Between 8/10. 

Make sure you check out more about it on Jessica's website


Trailer for Between





Suggested read
I think Here Lies Bridget  is a perfect match for Between. 

Monday 26 September 2011

Winner of Michelle Argyle's Monarch is....

Apologies for the delayed picking of the winner - the random number generating gremlins couldn't make up their minds which number to pick.



One person will receive a copy of Michelle Argyle's Monarch. I can reveal that person is....

Rickh! 

Many congratulations Rickh, I'll be in touch shortly to sort out getting you an ecopy of the book. 

There are more competitions coming soon! 

What are you reading? #84

What are you reading on Monday? is a weekly meme hosted by Rachel at Home Girl's Book Blog where you post books completed last week and plans for upcoming books. Jump over to her blog and see who else is participating.


Books I've read this week




Forbidden by Jana Oliver
Young Adult, Paranormal
(Riley is highly likable for the simple reason that she loves hot chocolate.)
10/10






 


The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter
Young Adult, Fantasy
(I love Kate for how selfless she is in sacrificing her happiness to save others.)
10/10










Between by Jessica Warman
Young Adult
(It took me a while to get into it, but once I did I was hooked.)
8/10



 






Naked by Kevin Brooks
Young Adult
(Title is a little bit true, but it's actually the name of the band Lili joins for a very wild rock and roll life, as well as lots of danger from terrorists.)
8/10










Words in the Dust by Trent Reedy
Young Adult
(An emotional read about a young girl with a cleft lip & palette who gets noticed by the American military who say they can help her...) 10/10



Monster Day at Work by Sarah Dyer (Children's, Picture book)


1st September 2011, Frances Lincoln 
32 pages, Paperback
Review copy 

Children's, Picture Book 

Themes: bonding between child and parent/guardian, adult jobs through a child's eyes, boredom, great imagination, lots of humour 

Summary from Frances Lincoln
Little monster spends a day at work with his father. First he has to dress and choose which tie to wear. Then he must travel with Dad and all the other commuters. At work he eats the biscuits at the meeting, colours the graphs his father makes on the computer, goes to the canteen for lunch and even stops off for a drink on the way home. Monster thinks his father has it easy at work.  

Nayuleska's thoughts
This is such a cute view on what the big world of work is all about, I remember feeling the same way when I was little. Virtually everything the little monster thought of were my thoughts when I was little. I love nap time, because little monster looks adorable, plus what the father is holding is funny. I looked at it, and thought it looked familiar (I can read monster language!). I turned the book upside down, then laughed a lot as the top sheet of paper in the pile says 'blah blah blah' many times. 

This sweet books get 10/10 from me. 

Be sure to find out more about Sarah on her website

Suggested read 
For a fun read about the importance of taking care of nature throughout the world, try The Trouble With Dragons by Debi Gliori


Sunday 25 September 2011

Sweet Hearts: Ice Dreams by Jo Cotterill (10 years +)


1st September 2011, Red Fox
272 pages, Paperback
Review copy 

Children's, 10 years + 

Themes: life at school, burn out, consequences of burn out, ignoring friends and good advice, keeping phobias a secret, being too stubborn minded, being unreasonable, loosening up, relaxation, stuffing up friendships, saying sorry in a way that suits the recipient, some teen romance, tissues needed

Tania Dunn is a promising ice-skater, but is in for a shock when her coach decides to pair her with Zac, a daredevil novice skater, for the summer ice show. Tania is outraged! She has always been a singles skater and she doesn't trust Zac on the ice at all. But Zac is very good looking and willing to try anything and slowly but surely he begins to win Tania over... 

Nayuleska's thoughts 
The reason I adore this book is that Tania is me. I burnt out in life just like she did, although the actual circumstances were slightly different and more logical than Tania's burnout. How she acts is really realistic, and I urge people to read it so everyone can look out for their friends. It is possible to follow your dreams and have a little time for relaxation along the way, as dreams are often a lot of hard work, but as Tania finds out they are worth it. 

 This thought provoking read, which has an awesome cover,  gets 10/10 from me. 

You can find out more about Jo's Sweet Heart series on the dedicated website

Suggested reads
For more ice skating drama, check out Kay Woodward's series, Skate School which starts with Ice Princess 


Saturday 24 September 2011

An interview with Nayuleska over at Fluttering Butterflies

Clover of Fluttering Butterflies is doing an Awesome Women feature, where she's having interviews with women she knows. I volunteered for it a way back, and now you can find out who I took and take inspiration from in life! 



Friday 23 September 2011

Warlock by Michael Scott (Children's, Fantasy)

Doubleday Childrens

2 Jun 2011,Date Publisher
400 pages,Review copy
Teen Fantasy
Themes: Magic, Fantasy, Violence (not graphic)

Summary from Doubleday Childrens

It's here where the summary of the book from Doubleday Children's should occur but...
This is a series of 6 books. Some readers will join the story a year or more after publication while others may wait for it to appear on the shelves - so some will be reading book 1 (The Alcehmyst) while some are reading book 6 (The Enchantress). Any summary after book 1 is BOUND to provide spoilers to readers who are behind the publication. Because of this I would like to omit the summary but summarise how I have enjoyed the series....
Book 1 (The Alchemyst) 5*
The twins are found by the Flamels but are also pursued by Dr John Dee on a chase across the world
Book 2 (The Magician) 4*
I found this book to be a  little similar to The Alchemyst  but different enough to still be great fun.
Book 3 (The Sorceress) 2*
This was, plotwise, very similar to The Magician and had I been waiting for The Necromancer then I wouldn't have bothered because I would be expecting a repeat of this book.
Book 4 (The Necromancer) 4*
When I did read The Necromancer I was very pleasantly surprised to find a very different book which I did enjoy  but still not up to The Alchemyst.
Book 5 (The Warlock) 5*
Now I was thoroughly pleased to have continued with the story but the summary on the back gives very definite spoilers to ....
Book 6 (The Enchantress) ?* - but I am hoping for 6*
We do now have everything set up and the threads in the story are so twisted and tangled it will be fascinating to watch it unravel.

If you are a fan of Teen Fantasy with plenty of magic and some violence (but NO soppy romance) then make sure you read all of this series - but in the right order - and leave off reading the summaries.. PLEASE?

Brother William's Year by Jan Pancheri (Children's, Picture Book, 10/10E)


1st September, Frances Lincoln 
36 pages, Paperback
Review copy 

Children's, Picture book 

Themes: medieval times, abbey, monks, gardening, housekeeping, caring for the sick, seasons, prayer, worship, reflection, strong community spirit. 

Summary from Frances Lincoln
Brother William is a kind-hearted 14th-century monk gardener at Westminster Abbey responsible for providing food for the other monks. This diary of his year shows what happens month by month in delightful words and pictures. There are decorative endpapers of the Abbey and gardens, an introduction of Westminster and a note on the life of Benedictine monks - all meticulously researched, written and illustrated with warmth and humour by Westminster Abbey's very own Head Gardener. 

Nayuleska's reason for loving Brother William...I'm glad I have more than one day off work a year, but Brother William is caring and compassionate. He loves to help others and works hard, all of which are great qualities to have. 

What style are the illustrations? At the beginning with all the copyright blurb it says it is illustrated by gouache thinned with egg yok. I don't know what this is, but the colours are warm, inviting and match the feel of the story. 

Are the illustrations interactive or engaging? Very much so! I found myself making up stories about the different monks I saw on the pages, especially in the larger ones where there's a lot of detail. 

Is there a message for the reader to take away? Definitely work hard, but play hard too, as well as helping others who aren't so fortunate. 

One of my favourite parts was...the snow monk! That was really funny, and not something I expected to see. 

This insight into a monk's life is thought provoking and pretty to look at, getting 10/10 from me. 

Suggested read
Another book which also got my imagination fired up through illustrations was Lucy Goes to Market by Imogen Clare and Sanchia Oppenheimer  

Thursday 22 September 2011

Be Mine by Kelly Daniels (Paranormal Romance)


October 2010, Decadent 
268 pages, e-book
Review copy

Paranormal Romance 

Themes: stalkers, vampires & werewolves in contemporary setting, family ties, life for the rich, uncertainty, fear of being found, on the run, intimidation, wanting to be safe, confronting fears, headstrong female protagonists, ice-cream, keeping family safe, some violence, a lot of tension, surprisingly few occasions of moderate adult situations

Summary from Decadent
Stubborn and independent, Elle Galligan wants only one thing - to be left alone by her crazy ex-boyfriend, Lukas. He continues to terrorize her, each act more vicious than the last. With no choice, she seeks out the one man she's turned her back on from the past - only to be thrown into the unknown. 

Successful Prince of Darkness, Larik deWolf, spots trouble the moment Elle calls him. In an ongoing war with Elle's shiftshaping ex, Larik is left with no alternative and vows to protect her from the evil stalker her, only to draw Elle closer into the mysterious world he hid. As danger strikes, history deems to repeat itself. When attraction binds them together, Elle threatens his supernatural abilities and control. Larik finds himself opening up his heart to the one woman he's tried not to love, but will she accept his secrets or continue to fight fate? 

Nayuleska's reasons for loving Elle...she doesn't want to be pushed to doing anything by anyone other than herself, she hates dragging her much loved family into her messes. She's determined to fix everything herself, but learns that sometimes she needs help. 

Is there another character who deserves a mention? Elle's sister Millie is hilarious, a realistic sister who people shouldn't mess with - including Elle, but they do occasionally work together, even when Millie drives Elle nuts. 

How evil/nasty is the enemy? Scary stalker ex-boyfriend becomes scarier because he has fangs and all the supernatural abilities associated with vampires, and is exceedingly clever in his obsessive plans. 

Are there lots of plot twists and surprises? I can't empathise enough what a joy to read this is. Elle doesn't realise how dangerous Lukas is, his stalking acts made my spine tingle. Elle is pretty stubborn which is a disadvantage because she is blinded by wanting to be independent. All the characters are solid, I smiled a lot at the sisterly interactions and the surprises just kept coming. 

One of my favourite parts was... the end. It was very awesome, having me hope there might be another book. You don't mess with sisters! 

This edge of the seat read which made me eat dinner late just so I could finish it is worthy of 10/10 and will definitely be read again. 

Suggested read
For another supernatural read of a stalker based story with a feline twist, try P J Schnyder's Heart's Sentinel

Wednesday 21 September 2011

The Story of Tracy Beaker by Jacqueline Wilson (9 years +)



March 2011, Corgi Yearling
224 pages, Paperback
Review copy

Children's, 9 years +

Themes: living in care, being disruptive, making up stories, loneliness, lies, good opportunities, fostering, child romance, being on TV a lot of alughs

'I'm Tracy Beaker. This is a book all about me. I'd read it if I were you. It's the most incredible dynamic heart-rending story. Honest.' 

Tracy is ten years old. She lives in a Children's Home but would like a real home one day, with a real family. Meet Tracy, follow her story and share her hopes for the future in this beautifully observed, touching and often very funny tale, all told in Tracy's own words. 

Nayuleska's reasons for loving Tracy...she's a really funny tearaway, always putting her foot in it, with a colourful imagination and off page vocabulary.

How evil/nasty is the enemy? Speak out Tracy's private thoughts from her diary makes Justine not exactly Tracy's best friend.

Are there lots of twists and surprises? It was quite surprising how nice things happened to Tracy even when she behaved badly.

One of my favourite parts was...whenever Tracy had an attack of hayfever - quite an imaginative description of crying.

I  now understand the clips I've seen on TV a lot better by reading this book, which gets 8/10.

Make sure you check out Jacqueline's website for more info on Tracy and all her other books.

Suggested reading
For another read about a child in care, check out Being Billy by Phil Earle


Tuesday 20 September 2011

Beautiful Days by Anna Godberson (Young Adult, Historical)


1st September 2011, Razorbill
368 pages, Paperback
Review copy

Young Adult, Historical 

Themes: life in the 1920's, friends moving on from each other, careless & reckless behaviour, selfishness, growing up, saying sorry, talent, family ties, taking hold of responsibilities, sparkly jewellery, lots of edge of the seat moments, kidnapping, stalking, opening a business, mild romance, some laughs, tissues needed. 

Summary from Puffin
The fabulous sequel to Bright Young Things

Scandal, intrigue, and romance follow the three beautiful young friends, Letty, Cordelia and Astrid as they each try to find love and fortune in glamorous Jazz Age New York. 

Nayuleska's reasons for loving Letty...she has a gift which she learns isn't as perfect as it could be without some guidance, but it's more than good enough that eventually, including in this book, all the disappointment and hardships she faces are more than worth it. 

Is there another character who deserves a mention? Cordelia and Astrid who act like total ninnies a lot of the time, who don't engage their brains but who get shocked into opening their eyes and really seeing both the reality of life as well as all the fun parts. 

How evil/nasty is the enemy? It is so easy to forget the dangers when those around you protect you from the darkness, keeping you occupied with sparkly things. But the look and grip of dangerous men will stay with you forever. 

Are there plenty of plot twists and surprises? The rollercoaster lives of each girl which began in the first book, Bright Young Things, had more twists that left me happily stunned. 

One of my favourite parts was....when Cordelia realises where she truly belongs, and starts putting effort into the right things. 

This gets a solid 10/10 from me. 

You can find out more about Anna and her books on her website

Suggested read
Definitely read Bright Young Things where all the excitement kicked off for the girls. 


Monday 19 September 2011

Blog Tour...coming soon to NRC

This is a little announcement to say that a review of Jana Oliver's The Demon Trappers book 2, Forbidden, plus a guest blog post by Jana will be here on Nayu's Reading Corner on 28th September! Here are the full details of all the stops on the tour. Check back in on 28th and enjoy! 


What are you reading? #83

What are you reading on Monday? is a weekly meme hosted by Rachel at Home Girl's Book Blog where you post books completed last week and plans for upcoming books. Jump over to her blog and see who else is participating.


Books I've read this week





Monster Day at Work by Sarah Dyer
Children's, Picture book
(Super cute example of a child going to a father's workplace for the day, and their outlook on work.)
10/10







The Green Line by Polly Farquharson
Children's, Picture book
(A book taking the reader on a journey through the country...with stunning photos!)
10/10







Forsaken by Jana Oliver
Young Adult, Paranormal
(Riley is my kind of girl - she will do anything for hot chocolate! Shame the demons she's battling aren't that easy to please...)
10/10







Ice Dreams by Jo Cotterill
Children's, 10 years +
(Story of a young ice skater who is heading towards burnout because she's hiding a secret fear - it's a heart provoking read.)
10/10



Sunday 18 September 2011

Lulu Loves the Library by Anna McQuinn and Rosalind Beardshaw (Children's, Picture book)


1st September 2011, Alanna Books 
32 pages, Hard back
Review copy 

Children's, Picture Book 

Themes: spending time with someone you love, libraries, love of books 

Summary from Frances Lincoln
A moment-by-moment account of a very young child's visit to the local library. 

Nayuleska's reasons for loving Lulu...she is so excited about getting new books and listening to stories, something I can relate to as I was an eager reader when I was little and I adored the library. 

What style are the illustrations? They look painted in bright, attractive colours. 

Is the book interactive and/or are the illustrations engaging? They provide a talking point for what happens at libraries, although it doesn't address fines or other media which can be borrowed. 

One of my favourite parts was...when Lulu wears her rucksack as she is very cute! 

This sweet read gets 9/10 from me. 

Be sure to check out Anna's website to find out more information about her and her books. 

Suggested read
For another sweet read, try Monster Baby by Lee Car 

Saturday 17 September 2011

Initiation by Rebecca Royce (Young Adult, Paranormal)


February 2011, Decadent Publishing
218 pages, Ebook & paperback 
Review copy

Young Adult, Paranormal 

Themes: vampires, werewolves, life after at planet wide disaster, deception, fighting to survive, injury and illness, a warrior class, mysteries, lots of high peril, teen romance & occasional moderately strong romance, some violence, tissues are needed. 

Summary from Decadent Publishing
My name is Rachel Clancy. Thirty years before I was born, the world ended. Today is my sixteenth birthday. Today I will go Upwards to fight the monsters and, statistically speaking, I won't be coming back - at least not living. 

Initiation is the story of sixteen year old Rachel Clancy, born with a specific set of genes that let her fight monsters, she has trained her entire life to kill Vampires and Werewolves. Knowing since birth what her destiny would be has not made the onslaught of emotions she faces as she journeys Upwards any easier. It doesn't help that her father is drunk and her best friend just doesn't get 'it'.

Rachel isn't prepared for the level of deception she faces, and before long she will find herself on a quest she is in no way prepared to handle. What happens next will alter not only Rachel's life but the lives of everyone she knows. She will learn beyond a shadow of a doubt that sometimes the monsters we know are worse than the ones we don't, and that love can surprise us when it comes from somewhere we never anticipated it. 

If she lives, she will be a Warrior. If she doesn't, no one will ever remember her name. 

Nayuleska's reasons for loving Rachel...she's got incredible skill but feels normal because of the family  hardship she faces. I didn't like how she gave up at the end, but I forgive Rebecca for making Rachel like that because there's a book two! 

Is there another character who deserves a mention? ...the twins, who give Rachel a lot of sister love which she enjoys. 

How evil/nasty is the enemy? Someone who wants you dead is evil. Ditto someone or more accurately something with fangs, teeth, claws, and any combination of those. But someone who seems normal until they show their true colours is seriously evil. 

Are there plenty of plot twists and surprises? I haven't been on one or ever intend to, but Initiation is a rollercoaster read, flinging high peril situations and intensely emotional moments when I least expected it. 

One of my favourite parts was...when Rachel learns how much her friends love her, because her life has been quite devoid of love. 

The only reasons this isn't getting 10/10 because it felt like Rachel gave up a bit too easily at the end. She's a fighter, and didn't fight. I'm hoping she was just weary from all that happened, and that book two sees her faring better. I'm giving the book 9.9/10. 0.1 off full marks. What? I really like it! Just not the end. Grr! 

Be sure to find out more about Rebecca and her awesome books on her website

Suggested read
For more werewolf drama, try Nightshade by Andrea Cremer.

Friday 16 September 2011

Bloodlines by Richelle Mead (Young Adult, Paranormal)


August 2011, Razorbill
421 pages, paperback
Review copy

Young Adult, Paranormal 

Themes: vampires, boarding school, security protection, facing ideals that counter your beliefs, mean girls, tattoos, high level of threat, disobedience, friendship, some teen romance, some gross romance, humour.

Summary from Penguin
Sydney belongs to a secret group who dabble in magic and serve to bridge the world of humans and vampires. She protects vampire secrets - and human lives. 


But when Sydney is torn from her bed in the middle the night, she fears she's still being punished for her complicated alliance with dhampir Rose Hathaway. What unfolds is far worse. The sister of Moroi queen Lissa Dragomir is in mortal danger, and goes into hiding. Now Sydney must act as her protector. 


The last thing Sydney wants is to be accused of sympathizing with vampires. And now she has to live with one...

Nayuleska's reasons for loving Sydney...unlike Rose, in the Vampire Academy series Sydney isn't all that highly skilled in self defence, but she makes up for it in her courage to stand by her convictions and never letting go of something until the truth comes out. 

Is there another character who deserves a mention? Jill! I was hoping to see more of her after the VA series, and there's a fair smattering of Jill sections. She rebels in her own way, and I could see the similarities with her sister Lissa. 

How evil/nasty is the enemy? Evil vampires are evil, but try having a villain who is so sneaky no one knows how they are and they not only threaten Jill and Sydney, but lots of others in the vicinity too. 

Are there lots of plot twists and surprises? I thoroughly enjoyed how Sydney got in as much trouble as Rose had in VA. When Sydney stuffed up the potential consequences were catastrophic. I feared the story wouldn't end well, but the tables were turned and I finished the book in the same way I'd started it, with a smile on my face. 

One of my favourite parts was...when Sydney got her assignment because I really like Jill.

There is only one grade for this book - 10/10!

You can find out more about Richelle and all her books on her website

Suggested read: 
Make sure you read the series where all the action started, Vampire Academy (this is the old cover) 

Thursday 15 September 2011

Habor Moon #2 Hunter's Dawn by Traci Mitchell (Young Adult, Paranormal Romance)


6th October 2011, kNight Romance Publishing 
Ebook
Review copy 

Young Adult, Paranormal Romance 

Themes: high school life, being different, wereweolves, shape shifters, misunderstanding, tension, high peril, moderately strong teen romance, a little violence, mild swearing, some humour

The story continues with Deanna and Eric in the small town of Twin Habor. A sudden animal attack throws the little town of Twin Harbor in an uproar, but it's Deanna who doesn't take the news well. After reading bits and pieces of a tatty old hand written journal, she begins to consider the possibilities that Eric might be the killer. Deanna's birthright is a Hunter. The very people who kill dangerous and evil werewolves. With no hope on the horizon, Deanna finds herself caught in a horrific situation and she must accept what she is to become. Can Eric's love for Deanna save her from herself? Or him? 

Nayuleska's reasons for loving Deanna...she ignores using the materials given to her until it's essential for her to have more knowledge, which is what I tend to do. Although thankfully I don't have to fend off werewolves, which she does with an awkward but definitely strong fashion. 

How evil/nasty is the enemy? Teeth. Claws. Two features which highlight how fragile Deanna is, but she does fight back. Although the enemy lives in her town, which isn't a comforting thought with all the power the enemy commands. 

Are there lots of plot twists and surprises? I beamed when I came across the plot twists. It makes me look at the first book in a different light. I enjoyed the rush of adrenaline during the high peril scenes. 

One of my favourite parts was...when Deanna went into full research mode - books always have the answer! 

This fun read full of shape-shifters and were-creature action gets 9/10 as not all the romance parts were my cup of tea. 

You can find out more about Traci and her books on her website. 

Suggested read
Definitely find out where Deanna's adventures began in book one: Habour Moon: Summer Romance


Wednesday 14 September 2011

And The Winner Is... Scorpio Races Contest


The winner of an ARC of Maggie Stiefvater's incredible The Scorpio Races is...








Crys Hodgens!




Congratulations :o) We'll be in touch soon.

Tuesday 13 September 2011

Chrysalis: The Awakening by M. L. Lacy (Fantasy, 18 years +)


January 2011, kNight Romance Publishing
456 pages (my ebook copy), Ebook
Review copy

Themes: magic, vampires, werewolves, family secrets, transformation, family closeness, telekinesis, telepathy, healing, domestic violence (referred to), some tension, a bit of humour, several strong adult romance scenes, tissues need. 

Summary from kNight Romance Publishing
All families have secrets. At 32, Bree Campbell discovers her entire life has been a secret. A mortal born into a family of Magicals, she begins questioning everything and everyone around her. The prophecy told at her birth speaks of a Chosen One; the last and greatest of a long line of Chosen Ones charged with saving both the Mortal and Magical worlds. Bree must face this reality and life with her new family; a clan of vampires protecting her. The sorceress, Esmeralda, will stop at nothing until this Chosen One is dead. None could then oppose her and she would be free to rid the world of all mortals. Will Bree awaken the hidden powers and find inner strength needed to save the world. 

Nayuleska's reasons for loving Bree...she's been through some awful times in her life, which do affect her daily, but Bree's prepared to take the leap of faith and trust that everything will be ok, even when she is hurt in the same way by her family. 

Is there another character who deserves a special mention? Bree's grandmother is quite a character, being the type of grandmother I love seeing in books: caring, compassionate, has a sense of humour and is sometimes embarrassing Bree. 

How evil/nasty is the enemy? There was a moderate amount of appearances by the enemy, who is supremely powerful and plays dirty. Abuse in any shape or form is horrid. 

Are there lots of plot twists and surprises? I honestly think I was more shocked at what kept happening than Bree. I almost squealed in delight with each new revelation. 

One of my favourite parts was...it has to be the final showdown, which reminded me a little of the showdown in Violet Wings by Victoria Hanley.

This book belongs with the others which have the wow! factor. It definitely gets 10/10 even though some of the adult situations are a bit odd, they fitted the story. 

Suggested reading
I usually just stick to one recommendation but I thought of a few as I read this. 

For more stories with chosen ones, close family ties and vampires, try My Love Lies Bleeding by Alyxandra Harvey, and Twilight series by Stephanie Meyer. 

For books regarding clans and hierarchy including alphas and special bonds try Raised By Wolves by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

The Scorpio Races Contest Closed!

Hi all! Just a quick note to let you know the contest is closed. Thank you all so much for entering :o) We'll be announcing a winner soon, both here and on Amy's blog!

Monday 12 September 2011

Winner of the Fearsome Beastie book is....



Due to germ gremlins the announcement of the winner of Giles Paley-Philips The Fearsome Beastie  has been delayed somewhat, but I've put the numbers in the random number generator, and have discovered who is going to win a copy of this fun book which entails an axe-wielding granny. 

The winner is....

Coralie Pearson! 

Many congratulations, I'll be in touch by email soon to confirm the win. 

More competitions are coming soon, there are still two up so get entering! You never know when you will win. 

What are you reading? #82

What are you reading on Monday? is a weekly meme hosted by Rachel at Home Girl's Book Blog where you post books completed last week and plans for upcoming books. Jump over to her blog and see who else is participating.

Books I've read this week


Skin Deep by Malaika Rose Stanley
Children's, 11 years +
(Destiny wants to enter a beauty pagent...until something serious happens to her and affects her self-esteem for a while.)
8/10







Beautiful Days by Anna Godberson
Young Adult
(Book 2 in the series has me feeling very at home with the girls who go through very personal journeys...)
10/10





Chrysalis by M L Lacey
Fantasy
(It's a book with a great deal of wow factor)
10/10






Brother William's Year by Jan Pancheri
Children's picture book
(A year in the life of a medieval monk...it's really interesting!)
10/10







Bloodlines by Richelle Mead
Young Adult, Paranormal
(This spin off series is awesome - and I get to learn more about Jill!)
8/10





 
 
Lulu Loves the Library by Anna McQuinn
Children's picture book
(Promotes the love of books in children [although it doesn't mention library fines, which as I had a lot of them when I was little, I find quite important!])
9/10