10 Good Things on a Monday (3)

Ten Good Things on a Monday is a fancy meme hosted by Nice Nina @ Brush Up on Your Reading!

Here's how it works:

1. Think of a particular group of good things you want to make a list on, does not necessarily have to be about books, e.g. your current book wish list, or your favorite book foods (you know, foods you love to eat while reading, if you're like me), or your favorite girly names, whatever you can think of, as long as it makes you feel good.
2. If you have no ideas for a list, you can always visit my blog post to check out my theme for that week and you can take a cue from my list.
3. Post your list on your blog, grab that cute ARGH button above and put it on your post too, so we'd know you're doing this meme.
4. Leave the link for your post on my own 10 Good Things post for the week, if you see others doing it, comment too and let's share our good things with everybody.
5. Everybody goes through the whole week happy!

This week I am going to do my top 10 things making me smile
  
1) My cats, so cute and cuddly. They are always a source of comfort and love and I smile every time I look at them. Look how cute - 

                                  This is my oldest Cat Tasha, asleep on my bed. awwwww :D

 2) Looking at pictures from my first ever holiday - Disneyland Paris, which i went to last week. I met Mickey Mouse and had a blast.

3) Chocolate Cake - so yummy always makes me happy.

4) Zumba - Dance Aerobics, if you haven't heard of it, search on YouTube, there are loads of videos. I go to a club every Monday night and have a blast, I smile throughout, even though it is hard work. 

5) My Family - they are always there and offer support, and I smile to know I am so loved

6) My Friends - I have the most amazing friends ever, they are like an extended family to me. Always have a laugh with them

7) Glee - New episodes are on E4 on a Monday night, so I will get my weekly fix. The crazy storylines and epic songs make me smile.

8) Books - of course, I'm surprised this is so far down the list actually, but it is here. My copy of 'Awakened' by P.C & Kristin Cast arrived at the library today and I can't wait to get stuck in, I literally squealed and jumped up and down when I saw it. :D

9) My teddy bear - I'm a softy at heart, but I've had this bear for about 20 years (since I was about 2), and he still makes me smile.

10) Comments from my lovely followers, always makes me smile when I see I have new comments, so go ahead and leave me some love. :D

What makes you smile?  

Book Review - My So-Called Life

Title: My So-Called Life: The Tragically Normal Diary of Rachel Riley
Autor: Joanna Nadin
Publisher: Oxford University Press
ISBN-13: 978-0192755261

Synopsis
Rachel Riley is the offspring of a depressingly unbroken home. Her mum and dad refuse to let her have a mobile phone, and have banned Ribena (too purple) and Eastenders (too common); her seven-year-old brother buys giant Des Lynam cut-outs and Will Young dolls from ebay and talks in Elvish; and the adopted dog eats her Pride and Prejudice boxed collection. It is time to change things. Rachel resolves that this year she will become tragic, literary and interesting - and will win the heart of Justin, the lead guitarist from Certain Death, along the way.

My Review
I picked this up because it sounded quite funny, a bit like the Louise Rennison books, however it sat on my shelf for ages and i didn't seem to get round to it. I took it with me on holiday as thought it looked like a nice light easy read that i could dip in and out of. I didn't get very far into it whilst away, but finished it today at home.
Rachel Riley is given a diary as a Christmas present and decides to record her boringly normal life throughout the year. From disappointing presents, to boy trouble and strict parents, Rachel's life seems to be like anyone else, she wishes for something more, a bit of excitement.
The book is divided by each month of the year and then by each days entry. The entries are all pretty short 1 to 2 paragraphs. and it is well written, it flows well and makes it easier to read. Didn't take me long at allRachel has quite a witty sense of humour and there were moments that i laughed out loud, but i would also say that i think in places it is un-necessarily rude. Her best friends mum is a sex therapist and this seems to fascinate Rachel, and she makes a lot of references to things to do with sex. I would say it wasn't suitable for younger readers, over 15 at least to read it. 
There are a whole host of characters in this book and Rachel's descriptions are funny. Her grandpa is a right character and lovable, her brother is odd and her aunt is loopy, her mother is a control freak and adds many items to her 'banned' list, some of which seem a bit overboard. I can't decide whether i liked this book or not, it was an enjoyable read but some moments did make me cringe and there was a bit too much sexual reference for me, but then again, I do want to know what happens next for all the characters so i still want to read the next books in the series. It has definitely got me on the fence.
As a quick read that doesn't require much brain power, I am glad I read it, but don't think i would ever re-read it. 

My Rating
I would give this book 4/10, OK but not great,    

Book Review - If A Tree Falls At Lunch Break

Title: If A Tree Falls At Lunch Break
Author: Gennifer Choldenko
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC
ISBN-13: 978-0747589273

Synopsis
Kirsten's world is crumbling. Her parents are barely speaking to each other and her 'best-friend' has fallen under the spell of queen bee, Brianna. For Walker the goal is simply to survive in the private school his mother has moved him to because she doesn't want him to mess up with most of the kids in his old school. Then Kirsten discovers something that has a big impact on both her and Walker's lives. 


My Review
I picked this up mainly because of the title, i found it rather intriguing and the synopsis didn't sound too bad either. I took it with me on holiday as it had short chapters and looked like an easy read, and I was right, it was a perfect holiday book, I could pick it up in a moment and read a little bit and not get lost. As it was I read it in two evenings (1 hour each time) and I did enjoy it.
The story is split between two characters - Kirsten's & Walker's, with a chapter each. However for all Kirsten's Chapters it is narrated in first person, (I went to her house, I said this etc) but Walker was told in third person (Walker went to his friends house, Walker was seen going etc) not sure why this was and took me a while to get used to it, but once i did, it didn't bother me anymore. I think it was supposed to be Kirsten telling the story but using Walker's experiences, not sure, but in a weird way it worked.
Kirsten's parents do nothing but argue, the house is like a war zone, Kirsten finds herself comforting her little sister Kippy a lot, or they both try to ignore the problem, but Kirsten also finds she is eating more and gaining weight, she isn't popular and even her best friend seems to be moving on. Then she meets Walker and things start to change.
Walker has been moved to the 'posh school' he has been awarded a scholarship and is now moving up to the higher class world. But fitting in isn't easy. This book deals with racism as Walker is a black boy and faces a lot of prejudice from the upper class white kids, but Kirsten tries to change this and seems him for the person he is inside, not the colour he is on the outside, but they are battling against the odds, and then secrets start to come out and even their friendship is on the line.
Fast paced and witty, this book really flows and I enjoyed the story. little Kippy is a sweet heart and Kirsten has a great sarcastic wit. Although very short, you get immersed in the book easily and move along with the story.
Love, Friendship, racism, divorce, weight gain, diets, friendships made and loss. Wow life can be hard, but laugh and cry your way through it with Kirsten and Walker.


My Rating
I would give this book 7.5/10 a good short read, great for holidays or a lazy afternoon.

Book Review - Diary of a Wimpy Kid

Title: Diary of a Wimpy Kid
Author: Jeff Kinney
Publisher: Puffin
ISBN-13: 978-0141324906

Synopsis
Greg Heffley finds himself thrust into a new year and a new school where undersize weaklings share the corridors with kids who are taller, meaner and already shaving. Desperate to prove his new found maturity, which only going up a grade can bring, Greg is happy to have his not-quite-so-cool sidekick, Rowley, along for the ride. But when Rowley's star starts to rise, Greg tries to use his best friend's popularity to his own advantage. Recorded in his diary with comic pictures and his very own words, this test of Greg and Rowley's friendship unfolds with hilarious results. 

My Review
I have to admit, I only picked this up to see what all the fuss was about. The kids go mad for these books in the library and are always talking about them. I was waiting for my friend to arrive to take me on Holiday last week and I had half an hour so i grabbed this book. It took me 22 minutes to finish, very quick. But it felt like longer.
The comic book drawings does break up the text and make it easier to speed through and i suppose keep the attention of reluctant readers, but for me, I didn't enjoy it.
I can definitely see the appeal for young boys - easy to read, pictures, and some rude jokes. For me though I found the 'voice' of Greg rather annoying, he seemed to resent everyone at school for being 'better' than him and only seems to like his friend 'Rowley' because he is lower than him in the 'cool chain' and even this changes when Rowley starts to become more popular. Greg wants to be popular but can't be bothered to make an effort. Again I can see the appeal to younger children, but for me, I couldn't get through it quick enough. Glad I read it when I did so I didn't waste 'proper' reading time on it.

I know this review won't make me very popular, but I have to be honest. For me it wasn't something I would read again or read any more of the series, but as I say if you are younger then I think it would appeal more.


My Rating
I would give this book 4/10, just not my sort of thing.
I'm sure the kids that come to the library would give it 10+ though!  

Book Review - Scarper Jack & The Bloodstained Room

Title: Scarper Jack & The Bloodstained Room
Author: Christopher Russell
Publisher: Puffin
ISBN-13: 978-0141322582

Synopsis
'I heard a murder being planned.' Scarper Jack is a chimney-sweep's boy and he's actually in a chimney when he hears two voices planning a murder. He knows where and when it's going to happen; but there's no way he can stop it. With the help of two unexpected friends; a posh boy and a sewer rat of a girl ; he sets out to solve the mystery and track down the murderer. Only to find that it can be dangerous to know too much . . .
 
My Review
I love these sort of mysteries and was grabbed by the cover and intriguing cover, The blurb sounded interesting so I decided to add it to my pile. I have never read anything by this author and he was pretty unknown to me, well not anymore, this book was so good, I will be reading other works by this author.
Jack is a sweeps boy, his mother isn't around anymore and his father sold him a few years before, so he stays with a Chimney sweep and works for his board. When a difficult chimney gets blocked Jack volunteers to climb up and dislodge the brush, but whilst he is up there he hears a murder being planned in the house next door. But he has no way of stopping it. He makes friends with a street girl and a posh young boy and although unlikely companions the three make a good group and set out to solve the crime. But knowing too much can be dangerous.
I found the plot very well structured and it flowed well, I was kept hooked in the story and had to know what would happen. There were a few twists and surprises and some laugh out loud moments and lots of suspense. I really enjoyed the book and hope there may be more in this series sometime. Jack is a great character - a mixture of cheeky, confident, happy and lonely, lost young boy, he comes to life off the page and it feels like your climbing the rooftops and running the streets with him.
An unusual tale and not well known, but i would suggest it. Try to find a copy - it's definitely worth it. 

My Rating
I would give this book 9/10, a great adventure that will keep you on the edge of your seat.   
 

Book Blogger Hop: February 25th - 28th & Follow Friday (6)

Book Blogger Hop is hosted by Crazy-for-Books and is an awesome way to for book bloggers to interact and find each other. Such a wonderful idea! There's a new question every week that all the participating blogs have to answer.

This week's question comes from Jen B. who blogs at I Read Banned Books:

 "Do you ever wish you would have named your blog something different?"

 

My Answer: I have considered it a few times when I've come across blogs with really creative names, but in all honesty I quite like my blog name and think it sums me up quite well, so for now I am happy with it.

 

Follow Friday 





Follow Friday is an opportunity to discover and follow other book related blogs! Want to join? Check it out at Parajunkee.

This week's question comes from NaKesha of Totally Obsessed 

Q. Share your current fav television show! Tell us a bit about it...

 My current favourite TV show would have to be Glee, I cannot get enough of this show. The plot lines can be very silly but are always well done and make me laugh. The characters are great and really seem to have a whole life of their own. The music is great and I am always walking around singing the songs from the episodes for a couple of days after it has shown on TV. I am a total GLEEK and proud of it :D

 What are you watching? 

 

Teaser Tuesday: Scarper Jack & The Bloodstained Room

TEAser Tuesday is a weekly bookish meme hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along, just do as following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) "teaser" sentences from somewhere on that page
• Be careful not to include any spoilers so as not to ruin the book for others!

Make sure to share the title and the author so other TT participants can add the book to their TBR piles!

My Teaser: Scarper Jack & The Bloodstained Room by Christopher Russell



"Jack had to jump to catch hold of the two dangling ends of cord. he grabbed them and tugged hard, testing that the grapnel was firmly lodged, then hauled himself hand over hand up the cord, with his feet braced against the house."
Page 72

What's your teasers?


In other news, I am off to Paris & Disneyland tomorrow for my first ever holiday!!! I am so excited, but this means that I will be away from my blog for a few days and will not be able to get comments or emails. I hope everyone enjoys the rest of the week and I will catch up with you all on Saturday when I get back :D

Book Review - All American Girl

Title: All American Girl
Author: Meg Cabot
Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books
ISBN-13: 978-0330400695

Synopsis
"Samantha Madison was an ordinary teenager. Well, maybe not so ordinary, since she wears only black and has a great talent for drawing. She has a popular, beautiful older sister, Lucy, and a genius little sister. She's in love with Lucy's boyfriend, Jack, who is also an artist. Her parents decide to sign her up for art classes, which she really doesn't want to take. One day she skips art classes, one thing leads to another, and she saves the President's life. From that moment, her life is changed forever."


My Review
As I am working through all Meg Cabot's works, this was another to check off my list. When Sam skips art class one day she spots a man trying to shoot the president who happens to be passing. Without thinking Sam leaps on the man and saves the president's life. Automatically named a hero and thrust into the limelight Sam has to deal with her new-found popularity. This story seemed a bit far fetched from the blurb, but it is written in a way that makes it totally believable. I could instantly connect with Sam and felt like I knew her. The writing flows well and is easy to follow, I finished the book in one day and it did leave me wanting to know more, but at the same time I was slightly disappointed, it just felt like the story was missing something. It just didn't seem to live up to Cabots normally very high standards, but even so I am glad to have read it, it is overall a good little story. 
Overall Mixed feelings. I will just say I love David, he is such a sweetheart.    

My Rating
I would give this book 7/10. A good read, but don't think i would come back to it.  

10 Good Things on a Monday (2)

Ten Good Things on a Monday is a fancy meme hosted by Nice Nina @ Brush Up on Your Reading!

Here's how it works:

1. Think of a particular group of good things you want to make a list on, does not necessarily have to be about books, e.g. your current book wish list, or your favorite book foods (you know, foods you love to eat while reading, if you're like me), or your favorite girly names, whatever you can think of, as long as it makes you feel good.
2. If you have no ideas for a list, you can always visit my blog post to check out my theme for that week and you can take a cue from my list.
3. Post your list on your blog, grab that cute ARGH button above and put it on your post too, so we'd know you're doing this meme.
4. Leave the link for your post on my own 10 Good Things post for the week, if you see others doing it, comment too and let's share our good things with everybody.
5. Everybody goes through the whole week happy!

This week I am going to do my top 10 naughty foods! 


1) Chocolate cake with Chocolate Icing and even more chocolate. :D
2) Maltesers 
3) Strawberries & Ice Cream
4) Chips/French Fries
5) Choc Chip Cookies
6) Chocolate Brownies
7) Swiss Roll
8) Apple Crumble
9) Pizza (especially Ham & Pineapple)
10) Chicken Dippers


There's a lot of chocolate related things there i know, but well I just love Chocolate. but who doesn't?

Book Review - 13 Secrets

Title: 13 Secrets
Author: Michelle Harrison
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Childrens Books
ISBN-13: 978-0857070890

Synopsis
Red is now living at Elvesden Manor under her real name, Rowan, and trying to put her past behind her. But staying on the straight and narrow isn't as easy as she had hoped...Hounded by fairy messengers who are trying to convince her to participate once more in the changeling trade, Rowan is haunted by dreams of the Hedgewitch's cottage and the chained-up Eldritch, who threatens revenge against her. Her past is about to catch up with her - can Tanya and Fabian prevent it consuming her altogether?
 
My Review
Oh my goodness, I knew this was due out soon but hadn't realised how soon. I was walking round town with my best friend during the week and we drifted towards Waterstones Book Shop, just for a look, but i saw this on the new releases display and actually let out a high-pitched excited squeal, which got me some very unhappy looks from the shop assistant. Despite the fact I said i wasn't going to buy anymore books until my TBR pile was considerably smaller (currently has over 100 books on it) I brought this straight away, I just couldn't wait to get my hands on it.
I absolutely loved the first two books 'The 13 Treasures' and 'The 13 Curses', this book carries the story on, Rowan (Red) is now living in Elvesdon Manor with Florence, Warwick, Fabian, Nell and her mum Rose, for once she feels settled, happy and wanted, she has the home and family she has always wanted. But something doesn't feel right, and when someone from her past shows up with information Rowan knows things will get difficult. Rowan is asked to complete an assignment about a changeling case, reluctant to take part, she knows it will be difficult and cause trouble, still nervous about Eldritch, the fairy she left chained in the cellar in book two, his threats to hunt her down still circle through her head, Rowan must make some tough choices.
I really enjoyed this book, I feel like I've grown with these characters and seen how they have changed. Tanya is back for the holidays and looking forward to seeing her friends, but once more she is plunged into danger, in this book she takes things with a much calmer perspective and seems to think things through. SHe does still have her moments of impulse and carelessness, but she has definitely grown into a very strong lead character. 
Fabian is still sulky and impulsive, but I love that about him, he is also fiercely loyal.
Rowan is the most to grow in this book, trying to shake off her past and the name 'Red' she seems ready to move on and enjoy her life. I could really feel her turmoil and pain in this book as she struggled with her past catching up with her, but she handles it well.
There is a whole new cast of characters in this book and they make a great addition, Part of the secret group Rowan used to belong too, they have come back for her help. Until slowly one by one they start to go missing, someone knows about them, and wants to stop them, This book has volved a lot since the first one, which although action-packed was very safe and I don't remember any real violence or grusomeness, but this book has grown, but it works, as the characters have evolved, got more involved with the fairy world and grown up, so is what they experience. There is one fairly gruesome scene in the book, when they find a member of the group dead, but it isn't overdone, in fact, It brought another side to the books. There are quite a few deaths in this book, but it is not overdone.
Overall, I'd have to say this is probably my favourite of the series so far, with romance, revenge, magic, mystery and intrigue I could not put the book down.
If you want a stunning book of fairy adventures, then this is the one for you. Michelle Harrison you are a literary genius, I hope there is more to come soon.

My Rating
I would give this book 10/10, I LOVED it, pick up the series today, lock yourself in a comfy room and don't come out until you have finished all 3!    

 

Book Blogger Hop: February 18th - 21st & Follow Friday (5)

Book Blogger Hop is hosted by Crazy-for-Books and is an awesome way to for book bloggers to interact and find each other. Such a wonderful idea! There's a new question every week that all the participating blogs have to answer.

This week's question comes from Jessica who blogs at a GREAT Read:

 "What book(s) would you like to see turned into a movie?"

 

My Answer: I would love to see 'Hunger Games' by Suzanne Collins made into a movie, and there are rumours this may happen. I would also think that 'Skulduggery Pleasant' by Derek Landy would make for awesome viewing. Also 'Wings' by Apprilynne Pike would be good. Ok, I'm going to stop there or i'll be here all day. :D 

Follow Friday 





Follow Friday is an opportunity to discover and follow other book related blogs! Want to join? Check it out at Parajunkee.

This week's question comes from Aaron (Book Addict) Dreaming About Other Worlds

If you are a fan of Science Fiction what is your favorite book? If you haven't read Science Fiction before...any inkling to? Anything catch your eye?

I don't read much sci-fi, I'm more on the fantasy, but I did read 'Across The Universe' by Beth Revis and really enjoyed it, glad I read it and if i could find more sci-fi as good as that I might read it more.

What book do you love?

Book Review - The Treasure Map of Boys

Title: The Treasure Map Of Boys
Author: E. Lockhart
Publisher: Delacorte Press Books for Young Readers
ISBN-13: 978-0385734271

Synopsis
Ruby is back at Tate Prep, and it’s her thirty-seventh week in the state of Noboyfriend. Her panic attacks are bad, her love life is even worse, and what’s more: Noel is writing her notes, Jackson is giving her frogs, Gideon is helping her cook, and Finn is making her brownies. Rumors are flying, and Ruby’s already-sucky reputation is heading downhill. 




My Review
Thanks go once again to Janette @ -The Story Realm- for providing me with this book through an awesome competition.
I read the first books in this series 'The Boyfriend List' and 'The Boy Book' last July and tried to get hold of a copy of this one since then so was thrilled when I won Janette's competition and finally got my hands on the book.
I had to try and remember what had happened in the previous ones and get back into it, but as soon as I started reading, I found it all flooding back.
We are back in Ruby's world with all her troubles, she is still treated as a social outcast but from two friends, people still talk about her behind her back and write mean things on the bathroom wall. Trying to appear as a better person is hard work, she has sworn off boys to protect her reputation, but the one boy she really does like is off limits anyway as her friend Nora has had a crush on him forever!
Ruby is still in therapy with Dr.Z who i think is a fantastic character, she is so full of life and really fills the pages, even though she doesn't appear much or really say much, she leaps of the page. Also reading Ruby's observations of Dr.Z can be very funny.
The book is written as if Ruby was talking to you and she has a great sense of humour and an original outlook on life. I found her friend Nora very irritating, and if she was my friend i would have had it out with her long before, she only wants Ruby to do what she thinks is acceptable, what she wants, she just seemed very controlling. 
I loved Noel and all the little notes he left, he has a cracking sense of humour and his comic timing bouncing off Ruby is fantastic.
I could really feel Ruby's confusion over teh different boys, her ex-friends, her current friends, her parents and the world in general it seemed. Everything seems to pile against her and she copes well, but I have to admit if my life was anything like Ruby's, then I would be in therapy too. With questions like - does he like me? why won't my friends talk to me? does the paper made frog mean anything? Ruby has a tough life.
I found this book very easy to read, the writing moves like a conversation and really gives you a taste into Ruby's life and those around her. I laughed out loud and teared up at parts too. Fantastically written Lockhart, I will have to try and find the next book now, as I have found there is a new one called 'Real Live Boyfriends' Can't wait. 

My Rating
I would give this book 8.5/10 get a copy today.  

My novel in Book Form!!!

I am soooooo excited!!!

Last November I participated in National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo). For those of you who don't know what this is, it's basically a challenge where you have to write a 50,000 word novel in just one month, this averages as about 2,000 words a night. You have word counts, and encouraging videos, and people you can network with and race to finish your word counts.

It was very hard work, some nights I would be struggling to get anything down, I wasn't in the mood or had no inspiration, or on the opposite side I would have so much to say but not enough time to sit down and get it out. There were some very late nights during November as I just couldn't stop! :D

However, I completed my Novel with 2 days spare, and since then have spent time, editing, re-arranging, and cutting, etc. I have given it out to some close friends to read, and received some very positive feedback. I have had it beta read and all grammatical errors fixed.

When you complete NaNoWriMo they offer you a special promotional code, linked with 'CreateSpace' where you can input your novel information, create a simple cover and basically set up your book. Then using the code provided you can order a FREE proof copy of your book! I made sure I was happy with my book and struggled quite a lot with the uploading, but finally I got it in.

Today I got home from work and was happy to find a parcel. Opening it up I found inside my very own novel, looking up at me, all shiny and new, with real pages and binding, and book wonderfulness!!!
It really is a special feeling, holding your own book in your hands, It's like walking on clouds, clouds of fluffy candyfloss with happy music and sunshine!!!

I can go back on the site now and order more proof copies (for a cost of course) and if I so choose I can also follow steps to get my novel self-published. I won't be going that far yet. I am currently waiting to hear about the results for 'Amazon's Breakthrough Novel Award' which is a publishing competition, if I get through that the prize is a publishing contract with a well known company. If I don't get through that, I may consider other options, but for now I'm just happy to hold my book in my hands. *excited squeel*

The cover isn't exactly how I envisioned it as I had some problems with the online cover creator, but it looks better than I thought it would!!!

What do you think?

My book, with MY NAME!!!!

Can't get over how excited I am.

here's the blurb for my novel:

There was an alliance between all mythical creatures, a truce that had gone on for years, but now the Gnomes have turned rogue and stolen the most treasured possession of all the clans, and then lost them. The Golden Web is the one thing that stops humans from seeing the world of myth and magic, without it, they are all in danger.
Can the Fairies find all the pieces before it's too late, can the Dryads be trusted, What have the Gnomes got planned, and who is the mysterious force that put them up to it?

So, would you read it?

Teaser Tuesday: The Treasure Map Of Boys

TEAser Tuesday is a weekly bookish meme hosted by MizB of Should Be Reading. Anyone can play along, just do as following:

• Grab your current read
• Open to a random page
• Share two (2) "teaser" sentences from somewhere on that page
• Be careful not to include any spoilers so as not to ruin the book for others!

Make sure to share the title and the author so other TT participants can add the book to their TBR piles!

My Teasers: The Treasure Map of Boys by E. Lockhart

'How was I supposed to concentrate on my mental health when my therapist was encased in orange sparkle madness?
I felt a nearly uncontrollable urge to ask her if there was a reason for her poncho, though i knew doing so would cause nothing but problems'

Page 37
 

'"Thanks," he said. "You were completely excellent back there."
His hand was warm, and part of me wanted nothing more than to hold it, but i shook it off.'

Page 55
 


What's your teasers?

10 Good Things on a Monday

Ten Good Things on a Monday is a fancy meme hosted by Nice Nina @ Brush Up on Your Reading!

Here's how it works:

1. Think of a particular group of good things you want to make a list on, does not necessarily have to be about books, e.g. your current book wish list, or your favorite book foods (you know, foods you love to eat while reading, if you're like me), or your favorite girly names, whatever you can think of, as long as it makes you feel good.
2. If you have no ideas for a list, you can always visit my blog post to check out my theme for that week and you can take a cue from my list.
3. Post your list on your blog, grab that cute ARGH button above and put it on your post too, so we'd know you're doing this meme.
4. Leave the link for your post on my own 10 Good Things post for the week, if you see others doing it, comment too and let's share our good things with everybody.
5. Everybody goes through the whole week happy!

This is my first post for this meme, but I liked the idea. This week I am going to do my top 10 favourite songs of the moment


1) The Only Exception (Glee version)


2) Defying Gravity (Wicked Stage Musical)


3) Alone by Celine Dion

4) Hate That I Love You by Rihanna

5) Somebody To Love by Anne Hathaway


6) Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen


7) The Land of Make Believe by *allstars


8) He Milo No Lilo (from Lilo & Stitch) makes me smile :D


9) My Immortal by Evanescence


10) Take A Bow (Glee cast version)


Some love songs for the occassion, all songs I can sing along to and know most of the lyrics but more aimed towards the single!!! Especially 'Somebody To Love'.
For all the singles out there sing along, come on, you all know that you know the lyrics.
(8) "Can, Anybody, Find Me, Somebody To Love,
Somebody, Somebody
Can Anybody find me
Somebody To Love
Got no feel
I got no rhythm
I just keep losing my beat
I'm ok I'm alright
Ain't gonna face no defeat....."


Happy 'Un'-Valentines Day everyone - hope you've all had a fantastic day.
For those of you who have someone to share it with, I wish you all the happiness and hope you have cherished this day.
For those without, just think of all the money you saved not having to buy gifts or cards. hehe, I always look on the bright-side.

Book Review - Grave Doubts & Heaven Sent

Title: Grave Doubts & Heaven Sent (Mediator book 5&6)
Author: Meg Cabot
Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books
ISBN: 978-0330519526

Synopsis

Meet Susannah Simon: she's a typical teenage girl who just happens to be a ghost-hunter . . . oh, and she's also dead-over-heels for Jesse - the sexiest spook ever! But can this girl get her ghost?
In GRAVE DOUBTS Suze has to contend with fellow ghost-hunter, Paul Slater, who gives her a deadly ultimatum. Unless she dates him, he'll send Jesse into the afterlife - for good. Paul may be totally hot, but Susannah Simon WILL NOT be bossed around. Let the games begin . . .
In HEAVEN SENT all Suze's dreams have come true - she's finally dating the most gorgeous ghost of all time, Jesse! But when her creepy admirer threatens to travel back in time and stop Jesse from dying, Suze is distraught. Will her new boyfriend choose life or love? 

My Review
I started book 5 yesterday and finished it at lunch today, I then got home from work and started number six and finished it in one go. These are the last two books in the Mediator series. I didn't want the series to end, I was enjoying it too much, but i couldn't stop myself and I will say that I am very happy with the ending.
Once again, we are back with Suze and her Ghostly liaisons. We met Paul Slater briefly in book 4, as the flirty older brother of little Jack (Suze's babysitting job), Suze thought she was rid of Paul when summer ended and he went back home with his family, but in Grave Doubts, Paul turns up at Suze's school. Why is he back and what can he possibly want? He didn't make a good first impression, and his second one isn't better. Suze must work out what he wants, but stay on his good side, this boy means business and clearly has powers Suze doesn't understand, and when Jesse is threatened, Suze will do anything to protect him. You see a whole new depth to Suze in this book, she seems to be growing up a bit more and thnking about the consequences of her actions, this doesn't mean however that she doesn't mess up and of course still delivers cutting sarcastic remarks which i have come to love.
In Heaven Sent, Paul is pushing things further and Jesse really is in danger. Paul knows a lot of secrets about Mediating, and offers to help Suze, but on a condition that she spend time round his house, act like they are going out. If not Paul threatens to use his powers to go back through time and stop Jesse dying, Suze is mortified, if Jesse doesn't die, she would never met him. She is faced with a whole new threat and powers she never knew about. I really enjoyed this book, more than the others maybe. Time travel tends to annoy me and very often isn't very well done and gets confusing, but Cabot has done a fantastic job here and made it very realistic. Suze is still growing as a character and making difficult decisions, and Jesse is still the adorable, caring, charming heart-throb that makes you wish you could find someone like him for real.
Still fast paced and well written, these books hook you from the beginning. This is a fantastic series and I'm so glad I read it. I encourage you to find a set and shut yourselves away for the rest of the weekend and enjoy!

 My Rating
I would give this book 10/10. For once a series that ended in a way I am entirely happy with, and captivating right up to that point. A must read for all!!!    

Book Review - Mean Spirits & Young Blood

Title: Mean Spirits & Young Blood (Mediator Book 3 & 4)
Author: Meg Cabot
Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books
ISBN-13: 978-0330519519

Synopsis

Meet Susannah Simon: she's a typical teenage girl who just happens to be a ghost-hunter . . . oh, and she's also dead-over-heels for Jesse - the sexiest spook ever! But can this girl get her ghost?
In MEAN SPIRITS Suze is all set to spend a relaxing summer on the beach, until she runs into the vengeful ghosts of four high-school students. She must use her mediating skills to guide these ghouls through the afterlife and stop them wreaking havoc in the present.
In YOUNG BLOOD Suze is heartbroken when gorgeous ghost Jesse doesn't seem to love her back. When his 150-year-old grave is unearthed in her backyard, she is determined to discover how and why he died. But one thing's for sure - digging up the past can be a deadly business . . . 

My Review
I couldn't wait to start the next book in this series and was lucky to have it ready when I'd finished High Stakes. Onc again i was immersed into Suze's world and all her Ghost butt kicking adventures.
This books sees more trouble for Suze, Mean Spirits shows four High school kids who aren't happy they died in a road accident, but was it really an accident, The ghosts don't seem to think it was and they want revenge against the one they feel is responsible. Suze becomes Mediator and detective trying to solve the mystery before anyone else shows up dead. I loved the suspense in this book and all the twists and turns. There were also some new characters that brought a different light to the story.
In Young Blood Suze is forced to get a summer job, totally unfair in her eyes, but it has it's perks, working at a holiday resort as a baby-sitter of all things has it's up sides, the tips are incredible, but Suze thinks she has the worst luck when she is paired with a young boy named Jack, who seems very uncomfortable and unhappy in life and scared of everything. But Jack isn't what he seems and when Suze finds the truth she discovers a whole different person. But if babysitting rich kids wasn't bad enough, she has to deal with the dead body in her back garden, Suze has a feeling she knows who the bones belong to, but she doesn't want to let him go. Will the past come back to haunt her or destroy her future. In this book, you get a lot more background information on Jesse and discover more about his life and how he died. I really liked this as Jesse is by far my favourite character. Shame he's not real, he would make the perfect boyfriend. oh wait, I'm forgetting, he's still a ghost. Bummer! All i can say is that if Cabot based him on a real person I would like to meet him.
I made my way quickly through these books and was once more glued to the pages. Grab a copy now to give it a go.


My Rating
I would give this book 9/10, another great part of the series, bring on the rest. There's some more Ghost Butt to Kick!!!

Book Blogger Hop: February 11th-14th & Follow Friday (4)

Book Blogger Hop is hosted by Crazy-for-Books and is an awesome way to for book bloggers to interact and find each other. Such a wonderful idea! There's a new question every week that all the participating blogs have to answer.


This week's question is:

"Tell us about one of your posts from this week and give us a link so we can read it (review or otherwise)!"

I started reading a fantastic series by Meg Cabot - the Mediator. I finished book 1 and 2 in a day and posted my raving review. Check it out  here

The Hop lasts Friday-Monday every week, so if you don't have time to Hop today, go back later and join the fun! This is a weekly event! And stop back throughout the weekend to see all the new blogs that are added

If you've stopped by my blog from the hop, welcome, it's great to have you here, please feel free to look around, and follow. I will then visit you in turn. :D


Follow Friday 






Follow Friday is an opportunity to discover and follow other book related blogs! Want to join? Check it out at Parajunkee.

This week's question comes from Ruby at Ruby Reads

What is your favorite romance hero-type? Stereotype wise. Do you like the strong silent type or the brute macho man?

I would have to say the strong silent type. I'm not a fan of the in your face macho man, i prefer the sensitive strong silent type that you can get to know and become friends and then can surprise you by sweeping you off your feet. 

So, what's your type?

Prizes and Award

 I entered a contest at 'The Story Realm' and was chosen as a winner. My Prizes arrived this week and I wanted to show the awesomeness. I got a home-made scarf and 'The Treasure Map of Boys' by E.E Lockhart. Can't wait to read it. :D Thanks again Janette. :D

 

 

 

 

 

 

I have also received: One Lovely Blog Award

Thanks to Palm Books Journal for this fabulous and amazing award.

What to do when receiving this award:

1. Accept the award, post it on your blog together with the name of the person who has granted the award and his or her blog link.
2. Pass the award to 15 other blogs that you've newly discovered.
3. Remember to contact the bloggers to let them know they have been chosen for this award.  

Wow thanks, it's nice to be appriciated. Choosing 15 bloggers to give it to is quite a task but i will try!

1. Alison Can Read 
2. Books Are Dreams
3. Books of Amber
4. Call Me Crazy 
5. Forever Young (Adult)
6. Dog-Eared & Book-Marked
7. Daisy Chain Book Reviews
8. Every Little Thing
9. Good Golly Miss Holly
10. I Swim For Oceans
11. Kitties & Cookies
12. Lazy Girl Reads
13. My Words Ate Me
14. Quick Quotes Quills
15. Super Librarian


Congrats to all these blogs. Go check them out, they are all Lovely!!!

Book Review - Love You To Death & High Stakes

Title: Love You To Death & High Stakes
Author: Meg Cabot
Publisher: Macmillan Children's Books
ISBN-13: 978-0330519502

Synopsis
Meet Susannah Simon: she's a typical teenage girl, who just happens to be a ghost-hunter . . . oh, and she's also dead-over-heels for Jesse - the sexiest spook ever! But can this girl get her ghost?
In LOVE YOU TO DEATH Suze arrives in California and has barely unpacked when her mediator skills are put to the test. A vicious spirit in her new school is hell-bent on making her life a complete nightmare, but Suze is more than ready to kick some serious ghost butt if she has to.
In HIGH STAKES Suze's new life is looking up - cool friends, pool parties and getting to know Jesse (swoon), but then a desperate spirit asks for her help. Suddenly she's on the trail of a creepy local businessman, who just might be a vampire. Life just got dead complicated. Again. 

My Review
This is a special two books in one which I love as it means I don't have to wait for the next part. 
Suze is a Mediator, she can see, talk to and touch ghosts, she saw her first ghost at the age of two, and has grown up helping the deceased move on. Often getting into trouble, skipping school and brought home by police for trespassing, she sees her powers as more of a curse than a gift. Her mum has got re-married and so Suze has to move from New York to California, to live with her new step-dad and 3 step-brothers. Maybe this will be a new start, somewhere to get away from her Mediating, but this is not the case, California sure has problems.
Love You To Death is the first book in the series, and is really gripping, I was instantly hooked, Suze is quick witted, sarcastic, and funny. I felt instantly connected with the characters and was lost in the world. I finished this story in a couple of hours and went straight into Part 2.
High Stakes carries on more or less straight after the first one ended. Suze has got rid of the malevolent spirit of an ex pupil and nearly trashed the school, she's hoping she can settle down and enjoy life and the sun of California. But life is never that simple. This book had the same quick wit and fast pace that got me hooked. This book takes us away from school, and into a more sinister setting. I could not stop reading, I was literally walking round with my nose in the book. I laughed out loud and gasped in shock.
These books are very well written and flow well. I was hooked into the story and couldn't wait to get hold of the next book. There is such a variety of characters that all come together brilliantly. I can't believe I put off reading this series for so long. If you can, find a copy and give them a go, you won't regret it.

My Rating
I would give this book 9.5/10. Excellent reads and well structured. 




This book counts towards 'Morbid Romantica' Challenge - February book 'Vampire Hunter'. Suze believes she is dealing with an evil vamp as well as ghosts.