Saturday, December 31, 2011

IMM 12/31/11

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by the wonderful Kristi at The Story Siren! We share books we received this week, whether we bought them, got them in the mail or checked them out from the library.


Sorry this one was so quiet! I don't know what happened.

Gifted:
Swag, letter and coffee (Thanks Tricia!)
Leah by Shannon Primicerio
What If... All the Boys Wanted You by Liz Ruckdeschel and Sara James
Just Ella by Margaret Peterson Haddix
The Cupid Chronicles by Coleen Murtagh Paratore
The Looking Glass Wars Book #2: Seeing Redd by Frank Beddor
The Essay Connection by Lynn Z. Bloom

For Review:
40 Ways to Get Closer to God by Jerry MacGregor

Won:
Love Finds You in Annapolis, Maryland (2 signed copies!) by Roseanna M. White (Thanks Amber!)

Saturday, December 17, 2011

IMM: 12/17/11

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by the wonderful Kristi at The Story Siren! We share books we received this week, whether we bought them, got them in the mail or checked them out from the library.


Bookmooch:
Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert

For Review:
A Wedding Invitation by Alice J. Wisler
The Keeper by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Bought:
Starcrossed by Josephine Angelini

Won:
Drink Deep by Chloe Neill
This Lullaby by Sarah Dessen

Monday, December 12, 2011

Mini Review and Blog Tour: The Merchant's Daughter


The Merchant's Daughter by Melanie Dickerson

Release Date: November 29, 2011
Publisher: Zondervan
Genre: Christian Romance
Pages: 288
Format: Paperback
Buy It: Amazon

An unthinkable danger. An unexpected choice. Annabel, once the daughter of a wealthy merchant, is trapped in indentured servitude to Lord Ranulf, a recluse who is rumored to be both terrifying and beastly. Her circumstances are made even worse by the proximity of Lord Ranulf's bailiff---a revolting man who has made unwelcome advances on Annabel in the past. Believing that life in a nunnery is the best way to escape the escalation of the bailiff's vile behavior and to preserve the faith that sustains her, Annabel is surprised to discover a sense of security and joy in her encounters with Lord Ranulf. As Annabel struggles to confront her feelings, she is involved in a situation that could place Ranulf in grave danger. Ranulf's future, and possibly his heart, may rest in her hands, and Annabel must decide whether to follow the plans she has cherished or the calling God has placed on her heart.
I loved this book SO MUCH! I'm not sure I even have words enough to describe how much I loved it. I own Melanie's other book, The Healer's Apprentice, but I haven't read it yet. I had heard it was good, and I love adaptations of fairy tales so when I heard she wrote one based off of Beauty and the Beast I was only too happy to have the chance to review it.


One thing that really stood out to me was how much Annabel focused on the fact that Ranulf was her lord, and she should have no feelings for him. It really helped me believe the romance because it didn't seem sudden like a lot of romances are. Definitely a must read!


This book was received free for review from the author. I was not required to give a positive review, simply an honest one.


Team Novel Teen is a group of bloggers dedicated to spreading the word about clean teen fiction. Check out other posts about Found in Translation by Roger Bruner by clicking on the links below, and check out www.NovelTeen.com for more information about Team Novel Teen.


Thursday, November 24, 2011

Guest Post: Top Ten Cutest Couples in Contemporary YA Books



Hi guys! My name is Mary from Anxirium. That's my blog's name, just in case. (laughs) I want to thank Ariel for having me in her blog for this month to celebrate the Contemporary YA Month. I love this idea because all I blog and review are contemporary YA books! Okay, I love reading about love stories in books and I decided to come up with a "Top Ten Couples" list. Here we go!



Click here to go to the Goodreads page. Click here to go to the Goodreads page.

Anna and Will from Sixteenth Summer: I didn't love the book because the relationship between them happened too fast but there's something about them I can't just ignore. Maybe is because Will is Anna's first love, or maybe is the beach or the ice cream. They're sweet, maybe too sweet but somehow unforgettable.

Lucy and Shadow from Graffiti Moon: I can't say much without spoiling the book but this is a couple you will want to read about next year! She's so fascinated by his art and he's so...mysterious. Their story will keep you flipping the pages and giggling and swooning and... you get my point. And what's more romantic that having the book come out on Valentine's Day?

Click here to go to the Goodreads page. Click here to go to the Goodreads page.

Jennifer and Cameron from Sweethearts: (sigh) I can't think about them without feeling sad. They have an incredible friendship. Let's say they are "best friends forever". They will break your heart -- like the cover.

Amy and Roger from Amy & Roger's Epic Detour: Anna is on a road trip with Roger because he's taking her to Connecticut. And in the way there, they fall for each other. But it's so frustrating because they don't see it for a while. I wanted to just get in the book and have them make a move or something.

Click here to go to the Goodreads page. Click here to go to the Goodreads page.

Anna and Tyler from Moonglass: They're one of my favorite couples. For once, is her trying to get his attention and flirt with him and he's doesn't show any interest. Tyler works for Anna's father and her dad doesn't want his employees dating her daughter, which makes for some hilarious scenes in the book.

Mia and Adam from If I Stay: Okay, so what if she's in a coma?! The flashback Mia gives us are more than enough to break our hearts! I can't think about this couple without tearing up! I have to remind myself that, well, they aren't real. They're my favorite couple, by the way.

Click here to go to the Goodreads page. Click here to go to the Goodreads page.

Taylor and Jonah from Jellicoe Road: They're both so alike in a way that she can't stand him and he can't stand her but it works. They're both strong "go for what they want" kind of characters.

Auden and Eli from Along For The Ride: My favorite Sarah Dessen book! I like them together because Auden is this studious girl and Eli is this layback "BMX- bike riding" kind of guy. They both have trouble sleeping and they spend time getting to know each other pass midnight.

Click here to go to the Goodreads page. Click here to go to the Goodreads page.

Anna and St. Clair from Anna And The French Kiss: So, so, so, amazing! They become friends first and you feel their attraction towards each other but they can't do anything about it because HE. HAS. A. GIRLFRIEND. They had me biting my nails!

Maggie and Caleb from Leaving Paradise: I love couples who don't like each other at first and this is one of them. He's was in juvie because he hit Maggie while driving drunk and because of that she walks with a limp. But they are super cute together when they, you know, stop hating each other.


Mary is the blogger behind Anxirium. She fell in love with contemporary YA with one of the Sarah Dessen books. She still doesn't remember which one it was! She also loves to draw, watch college football and the smell of Sharpies!

Saturday, November 12, 2011

IMM: 11/13/11

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by the wonderful Kristi at The Story Siren! We share books we received this week, whether we bought them, got them in the mail or checked them out from the library.

Won:
My Life Undecided by Jessica Brody

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Review: God Makes Lemonade


God Makes Lemonade by Don Jacobson

Release Date: August 22, 2011
Publisher: Lemonade Books LLC
Genre: Christian Inspirational
Pages: 320
Format: Paperback
Buy It: Amazon
Do you know anyone who could use some encouragement? Perhaps that someone is you. In God Makes Lemonade™ you’ll read stories from everyday folks, people like you and me who discover unexpected sweetness in the midst of sour circumstances. Some of these real-life stories are laugh-out-loud funny, others are sobering, and more than a few will have you reaching for a tissue. But these true stories all have one thing in common: hope. There’s no question that life gives us “lemons,” like issues with health, employment, and relationships, truly sour circumstances we wouldn’t wish on anyone. But when those lemons become lemonade, it’s as refreshing as an ice-cold drink on a hot summer day. It’s true that in life “stuff” happens, but I have found that Lemonade Happens™ too! It is my deepest wish that God Makes Lemonade brings you encouragement and inspiration.
I loved this book! It had so many sweet moments that had me in tears if joys, but equally as many moments that had me crying from feeling the pain of the people in the stories. One thing I enjoyed about this book was that it was arranged a lot like a Chicken Soup book, but the author wold add his thoughts in after a few of the stories. This book came at the perfect time in my life, when I needed some inspiration that God would make things right. This book is worth it to take the time and read!



I received this book free for review through Glass Road Blog Tours. I was not required to give a positive review, simply an honest one.

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Mini Review and Blog Tour: Love on the Line


Love on the Line by Deeanne Gist

Release Date: October 1, 2011
Publisher: Bethany House
Genre: Christian Historical Romance
Pages: 368
Format: Paperback
Buy It: Amazon
Rural switchboard operator Georgie Gail is proud of her independence in a man's world ... which makes it twice as vexing when the telephone company sends a man to look over her shoulder.

Dashing Luke Palmer is more than he appears though.  He's a Texas Ranger working undercover to infiltrate a notorious gang of train robbers.  Repairing telephones and tangling with this tempestuous woman is the last thing he wants to do.  But when his stakeout puts Georgie in peril, he realizes more than his job is on the line.
Many of my followers know I am not one to enjoy historical novels. However, I usually make an exception for romances. Especially Christian romances. This book surpassed my expectations. Deeanne knows her stuff; her facts of the time matched perfectly and did not throw me off one bit.

The romance was perfect! Georgie and Luke are the quirkiest couple I've ever read about, but in a good way! Their constant bickering had me amused often. I did feel however that Georgie's reactions to the various bird fashions were over the top. However, it doesn't detract from the book. I loved it and look forward to more from this author!

I received this book free for review through LitFuse Blog Tours. I was not required to post a positive review, simply an honest one.
-----------------

Deeanne is thrilled to introduce Georgie and Luke to the word in her latest novel, Love on the Line. To celebrate Deeanne's publisher, Bethany House, is hosting the Love on the Line iPad2 giveaway an Author Chat on Facebook! Enter today and follow the link below to RSVP for Deeanne's rip-roarin' Facebook Party!



One fortunate winner will receive: 

  • A Brand New iPad2 
  • An Autographed Hardback Copy of Love on the Line by Deeanne Gist 

Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. But hurry, the giveaway ends on November 7th. Winner will be announced at Deeanne's Author Chat Facebook Party. Deeanne will be wrapping up the Love on the Line celebration by chatting with friends new and old! So grab your copy of Love on the Line (it's okay if you don't have one yet- you might could win one!) and join Deeanne on the evening of November 8th for a rip roaring book chat, a little trivia and lots of giveaways (books, and Amazon, iTunes & Starbucks gift certificates)!
Enter via E-mail Enter via FacebookEnter via Twitter
Don't miss a moment of the fun. RSVP today and tell your friends. Hope to see you on the 8th!

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

Contemporary Month: Week One


Welcome to Contemporary Month! This month is hosted by Shanyn from Chick Loves Lit and Ashley from Books from Bleh to Basically Amazing. For the first week, the topic is Why We Love Contemporary. I swapped posts with Kailia from Reading the Best of the Best, and this is why she loves contemporary! 

YA contemporary books have changed me so much and for the better. When I was younger, I was a very awkward girl. I didn’t think I fit in with my friends and I often judged myself. There were time when I had low self esteem and other times when my ego would go too far. I was far, far from perfect and I was…different. For the longest time I thought this was bad. I didn’t like being different from my friends. I often asked myself why I wasn’t more like them. It wasn’t until I read a YA novel that I changed my way of thinking.

In this YA contemporary book, I read about a character who felt the same way I did and I loved, loved knowing that I wasn’t alone. I learned that everyone is different and everyone, at some point in their life (and if they don’t get this feeling, well, then they were really special) feels like they don’t belong or fell awkward or judge themselves or something.
 For the first time, I was able to connect with someone, even if they weren’t real, about real topics and feelings and such. I didn’t feel so alone and isolated anymore. I also began to see the world in a different point of view. I knew from an early age that the world wasn’t perfect but YA books showed me that no one was perfect, no matter how they seemed. 

 I love YA contemporary books because they are real and true and something I can connect with. No matter how sucky or weird or tiring my real life becomes, I can always count on a contemporary book to help me out. I don’t feel alone in having a bad day or liking a guy who doesn’t like me back. 

 I love YA contemporary books because they are my get-away-books. While paranormal books and fantasies are fun to read, sometimes I just want to read about another girl (or guy’s) life and what they are up to. I want to read about their problems and think about their life. I want to get away to a real world where I can recognize things and other such. 

 I love YA contemporary books because they taught me that it’s okay to be different. No two people are alike. It’s not a bad thing to be unlike other people. YA taught me that we’re all different and in all situations, we all think differently. 

 I love YA contemporary books because they have taught me that we are all different and that is what makes us amazing.


Such a great post! Be sure to head over to her blog to read my post! Also, check out the hosts' blogs for more stories!

Saturday, October 22, 2011

IMM: 10/23/11 (and update!)

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by the wonderful Kristi at The Story Siren! We share books we received this week, whether we bought them, got them in the mail or checked them out from the library.
For Review:
The Jesus Experiment by Bill Perkins (Thanks Tyndale Blogging Network!)

Dewey's Readathon

So... I'm supposed to be participating in Dewey's readathon today. I started at 5AM my time, but I ended up sleeping in until 11AM since I got no sleep the night before. I am hoping to get some reading in, but it won't be a lot. I have choir practice later this evening, and then I need to be in bed by at least midnight so I can get up for church tomorrow. I'll post updates as I get stuff read :)

1)Where are you reading from today? My dorm room in Oregon :)
2)Three random facts about me… I'm left-handed, I have a love for contemporary books, and I am a tech geek :P
3)How many books do you have in your TBR pile for the next 24 hours? Right now... one. Haha. I don't think I'll have the time to finish more than that. The sad life of a college student...
4)Do you have any goals for the read-a-thon (i.e. number of books, number of pages, number of hours, or number of comments on blogs)? My only goal is to finish my current read. If I finish that, I will be amazed!
5)If you’re a veteran read-a-thoner, any advice for people doing this for the first time?  This is my second year, and I can tell you that if you plan to do it amidst school, get most of your homework done first :P

Mid-Event Survey:
1. What are you reading right now? STILL reading God Makes Lemonade :P
2. How many books have you read so far? 0.... #fail
3. What book are you most looking forward to for the second half of the Read-a-thon? Assuming I finish my current one, I'm going to read Forever by Judy Blume next. I'm excited!
4. Did you have to make any special arrangements to free up your whole day? I attempted to... but did not succeed :/
5. Have you had many interruptions? How did you deal with those? Yes... roommates and homework. I got most of my homework done, and will finish the rest tomorrow. My roommates are leaving tonihgt so I'll have some time alone :)
6. What surprises you most about the Read-a-thon, so far? How much people are able to read! It's insane.
7. Do you have any suggestions for how to improve the Read-a-thon next year? For me personally, I will barricade myself on my bunk bed and ban my roommates from bugging me :P
8. What would you do differently, as a Reader or a Cheerleader, if you were to do this again next year? As stated above, I am going to try and put all my focus into reading.
9. Are you getting tired yet? Not really.
10. Do you have any tips for other Readers or Cheerleaders, something you think is working well for you that others may not have discovered? Food helps keep you going :)

End Challenge:
1. Which hour was most daunting for you? Um... all of them??? Haha.
2. Could you list a few high-interest books that you think could keep a Reader engaged for next year? I don't know any in particular. Just any that are in that reader's favorite genres.
3. Do you have any suggestions for how to improve the Read-a-thon next year? For myself, I definitely need to plan a few days in advance to be prepared.
4. What do you think worked really well in this year’s Read-a-thon? The cheerleaders!
5. How many books did you read? None :/
6. What were the names of the books you read? I only read one or two chapters from God Makes Lemonade.
7. Which book did you enjoy most? See above.
8. Which did you enjoy least? None.
9. If you were a Cheerleader, do you have any advice for next year’s Cheerleaders? N/A
10. How likely are you to participate in the Read-a-thon again? What role would you be likely to take next time? I will be participating next year! I might even be a host, we'll see :)

Friday, October 21, 2011

Mini Review and Blog Tour: Lost in Dreams.


Lost in Dreams by Roger Bruner
Release Date: July 1, 2011
Publisher: Barbour Publishing Inc.
Genre: Christian Contemporary Fiction
Series: Altered Hearts #2
Pages: 368
Format: Paperback
Buy It: Amazon

Join eighteen-year-old Kim Hartlinger, as she arrives home from a life-changing mission trip to a remote Mexican village. This second novel in a new series for teen girls will challenge your faith—and capture your heart—as you journey with Kim through the biggest struggle of her life and faith.
I was very excited to get started on this one after finishing the first one! The one pretty much starts from the exact end of the first one. Kim returns home to devastating news, which sends her into a strong period of grief. I found it hard to deal with that part, especially after having just finished the emotional ending of the first one. She manages to keep herself going with the thought of her next mission trip, which she throws  herself into.

I enjoyed the return of Aleesha, and I loved the addition of Jo. This one wasn't quite as moving towards the end as the first one was, but it is still worth it!

This book was received free for review from the author. I was not required to give a positive review, simply an honest one.

Team Novel Teen is a group of bloggers dedicated to spreading the word about clean teen fiction. Check out other posts about Found in Translation by Roger Bruner by clicking on the links below, and check out www.NovelTeen.com for more information about Team Novel Teen.

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Review: Diary of a Teenage Girl: Becoming Me


Diary of a Teenage Girl: Becoming Me by Melody Carlson

Release Date: August 10, 2000
Publisher: Multnomah Books
Genre: Christian Contemporary
Series: Caitlin #1
Pages: 256
Format: Paperback
Buy It: Amazon
In the fictional Diary of a Teenage Girl, sixteen-year-old Caitlin O'Conner reveals the inner workings of a girl caught between childhood and womanhood ... an empty life without Christ and a meaningful one with Him. Through Caitlin's candid journal entries we see her grapple with such universal teen issues as peer pressure, loyalty, conflict with parents, the longing for a boyfriend, and her own spirituality.

Follow Caitlin O'Conner, a girl much like yourself, as she makes her way from New Year's to the first day of summer -- surviving a challenging home life, changing friends, school pressures, an identity crisis, and the uncertainties of "true love."

You'll cry with Caitlin as she experiences heartache, and cheer for her as she encounters a new reality in her life: God. See how rejection by one group can -- incredibly -- sometimes lead you to discover who you really are...
I very much enjoy books that are written in a diary style, and this one was no exception. Caitlin is very honest about her life, which is very much like a typical teenager. She loses her best friend for popularity, and then regains her when the popular crowd drops her again. She falls in love with the same boy, again and again. But most important of all, she finds God. She struggles with many things in her life, as a typical teenager does. This book shows exactly how a normal life is, and what good can come of it!



I received this book free for review from Glass Road Blog Tours. I was not required to post a positive review, simply an honest one.

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Mini Review and Blog Tour: Reclaiming Lily


Reclaiming Lily by Patti Lacy

Release Date: October 1, 2011
Publisher: Bethany House
Genre: Christian Contemporary
Pages: 380
Format: Paperback
Buy It: Amazon
A storm the size of Texas brews when Gloria Powell and Kai Chang meet in a Dallas hotel. They have come to discuss the future of Lily, the daughter Gloria adopted from China and the sister Kai hopes to reclaim. Kai is a doctor who had to give up her little sister during the Cultural Revolution and has since discovered that an inherited genetic defect may be waiting to fatally strike Lily.

Gloria's relationship with her daughter is tattered and strained, and the arrival of Kai, despite the woman's apparent good intentions, makes Gloria fearful. Gloria longs to restore her relationship with Lily, but in the wake of this potentially devastating diagnosis, is Kai an answer to prayer...or will her arrival force Gloria to sacrifice more than she ever imagined?
This book was so touching! I found myself in tears more than once. I could feel the pain and desire each woman had for this girl, and that ultimately they only wanted her to have a fulfilling and happy life. I can't imagine having to battle someone like that! This book was very real; it showed how two people can love another person so much and in two totally different ways, and that they can work together to keep her life going strong.


Patti Lacy is celebrating the release of her latest book, Reclaiming Lily,  with a KindleTouch Giveaway, blog tour and FB Book Chat Party!

Follow the blog tour and read the reviews!

Patti and her publisher, Bethany House, are giving away a Reclaiming Lily prize package worth over $150 to one lucky winner!!!!

Enter the Reclaiming Lily Giveaway and you could win:
  • A brand new just released KindleTouch with Wi-Fi
  • $25 gift cetificate to Amazon.com
But, wait there’s more!


Enter today by clicking one of the icons below. Giveaway ends on 10/19! Patti will be announcing the winner of the Reclaiming Lily Giveaway at her Party on Facebook October 20th! She’ll be hosting a book club chat of Reclaiming Lily (it's okay if you haven't read it - you could win a copy!) and giving away other fun prizes! (signed copies of her books and gift certificates to Amazon.com, Starbucks, & iTunes!). Don’t miss the fun at Patti’s FB Author Page on 10/20/11 at 5pm PST ( 6 pm MST, 7 pm CST, & 8 pm EST)! RSVP today!
Enter via E-mail Enter via FacebookEnter via Twitter

 I received this book free for review from review from LitFuse Blog Tours. I was not required to give a positive review, simply an honest one.

 

Monday, October 17, 2011

Review - Found in Translation


Found in Translation by Roger Bruner

Release Date: January 1, 2011
Publisher: Barbour Books
Genre: Christian Contemporary
Series: Found in Translation #1
Pages: 368
Format: Paperback
Buy It: Amazon
Join spoiled eighteen-year-old Kim Hartlinger on a mission trip to a remote Mexican village where faith, obedience, and forgiveness intersect. This first novel in a brand-new series will challenge your faith and capture your heart as you get to know Kim and her new friends and witness their unforgettable journey.
This book awed me. At first I was confused, because Kim is described as a spoiled girl, but I didn't find her all that spoiled. She is simply a rich child who is used to being able to buy whatever. However, her personality was very down to earth, and she is very sweet.

Her relationships with the others blossom and encourage her experience on the trip. This book gave me a huge desire to use my Spanish abilities and share the gospel in other countries, especially seeing how much Kim learned from it.

The ending it so touching! It brought me to tears. This books is definitely a must-read, and I look forward to reading the sequel!



I received this book free for review from the author for a blog tour. I was not required to post an positive review, simply an honest one.

Saturday, October 15, 2011

IMM: 10/16/11

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by the wonderful Kristi at The Story Siren! We share books we received this week, whether we bought them, got them in the mail or checked them out from the library.

No new books this week! I apologize for the lack of reviews... Hopefully I will get back into reading soon! Hope everyone had a good week!

Friday, October 14, 2011

Mini Review and Blog Tour - Along Wooded Paths


Along Wooded Paths by Tricia Goyer

Release Date: October 1, 2011
Publisher: B&H Books
Genre: Amish Fiction
Series: Big Sky #2
Pages: 320
Format: Paperback
Buy It: Amazon
All she wanted was a simple Amish life . . .

But now Marianna Sommer finds herself depending on Englisch neighbors. Although proud of living apart from the world, she and her newly relocated Amish family have discovered that life in the remote mountains of Montana requires working together.

As Marianna begins helping those different from herself—and receiving their help—her heart contemplates two directions. She’s torn between the Amish man from Indiana whom she has long planned on marrying and the friendly Englischer who models a closer walk with God than she’s ever seen before.
Who should have young Marianna’s heart? What is God asking her to sacrifice? Her traditions? Her community? The answer is found along the wooded paths.
I reas the first book in the series, Beside Still Waters, and I loved it. I was thrilled to get a chance to review this one too! This one was just as amazing. I love reading about the Amish, and it was a nice touch to have the romance aspect added. I was surprised about Marianna's indecision, but I feel like the ending was perfect. A great Amish read!

I received this book free for review from Litfuse Blog Tours. I was not required to post an positive review, simply an honest one.

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Mini Review and Blog Tour - Diary of a Teenage Girl: Becoming Me


Diary of a Teenage Girl: Becoming Me by Melody Carlson

Release Date: August 10, 2000
Publisher: Multnomah Books
Genre: Christian Contemporary
Series: Caitlin #1
Pages: 256
Format: Paperback
Buy It: Amazon
In the fictional Diary of a Teenage Girl, sixteen-year-old Caitlin O'Conner reveals the inner workings of a girl caught between childhood and womanhood ... an empty life without Christ and a meaningful one with Him. Through Caitlin's candid journal entries we see her grapple with such universal teen issues as peer pressure, loyalty, conflict with parents, the longing for a boyfriend, and her own spirituality.

Follow Caitlin O'Conner, a girl much like yourself, as she makes her way from New Year's to the first day of summer -- surviving a challenging home life, changing friends, school pressures, an identity crisis, and the uncertainties of "true love."

You'll cry with Caitlin as she experiences heartache, and cheer for her as she encounters a new reality in her life: God. See how rejection by one group can -- incredibly -- sometimes lead you to discover who you really are...
This book is the journal to Caitlyn, a typical teenager trying to get through life. She experiences love, parental struggles, school, faith and so much more. I appreciated that this book was like a journal, because it made it seem so much more realistic and meaningful. It it a fairly short book, but one packed with so much meaning.

I received this book free for review from Glass Road Blogging for a blog tour. I was not required to post a positive review, simply an honest one.

Monday, October 10, 2011

Review - Past Perfect


Past Perfect by Leila Sales
Release Date: October 4, 2011
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Pages: 320
Format: eGalley
Buy It: Amazon
All Chelsea wants to do this summer is hang out with her best friend, hone her talents as an ice cream connoisseur, and finally get over Ezra, the boy who broke her heart. But when Chelsea shows up for her summer job at Essex Historical Colonial Village (yes, really), it turns out Ezra’s working there too. Which makes moving on and forgetting Ezra a lot more complicated…even when Chelsea starts falling for someone new.
Maybe Chelsea should have known better than to think that a historical reenactment village could help her escape her past. But with Ezra all too present, and her new crush seeming all too off limits, all Chelsea knows is that she’s got a lot to figure out about love. Because those who don’t learn from the past are doomed to repeat it….
I wanted this book the moment I first saw it on someones Waiting On Wednesday. I LOVE this cover, and I admit I judge books by their covers. However I haven't been reading a lot of contemporary lately, so when I saw that it was available on NetGalley, I immediately requested it.

I read through this book it two days. That may not seem fast, but when I have school  and homework, that is pretty quick! I loved this book, and I loved the quirky relationship between Chelsea and Dan from the moment they met. Fiona was a typical best friend, but she was enough so that it fit well with the flow of the story. I loved this book, but I felt it ended way too abruptly. It could have used a smoother ending. A must-read!



I received this book free for review from NetGalley. I was not required to give a positive review, simply an honest one.

Saturday, October 8, 2011

IMM: 10/9/11

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by the wonderful Kristi at The Story Siren! We share books we received this week, whether we bought them, got them in the mail or checked them out from the library.

For Review:
God Makes Lemonade by Don Jacobson (Thanks Glass Road Blogging!)
Choker by Elizabeth Woods (Thanks Simon and Schuster!)

Friday, October 7, 2011

Mini Review and Blog Tour - Hello Hollywood


Hello Hollywood by Janice Thompson
Release Date: September 1, 2011
Publisher: Revell
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Pages: 278
Format: Paperback
Buy It: Amazon
Athena Pappas is the head writer on one of the most popular sitcoms in television history. But when Vegas comedian Stephen Cosse is brought in to beef up the show's suddenly sagging ratings, she starts to worry about her job. Sparks fly as the competition--and attraction--between the two writers heats up. Athena has never had a problem scripting the romances of her characters. So why is her own love life so hard to script?

With humor and a Hollywood-insider viewpoint, Hello, Hollywood! delivers lots of laughs as the characters discover that not being in control of the plot of their lives might just be the best thing that ever happened to them.
Stars Collide is a popular sitcom that begins to see it's ratings fall. Athena, the head writer, brings in handsome comedian Stephen and the story comes to life. Before she meets him, Athena seems to worry too much about her show. Once Stephen comes into the picture, she livens up and spends a lot of time with him and making the show better.

As much as I liked their romance, I felt it was typical and predictable. I was a little disappointed by that. Overall however, a great romance novel!

I received this book free for review for a Revell blog tour. I was not required to write a positive review, simply an honest one

Wednesday, October 5, 2011

Review - A Lancaster County Christmas


A Lancaster County Christmas by Suzanne Woods Fisher

Release Date: September 1, 2011
Publisher: Revell
Genre: Amish Fiction
Pages: 208
Format: Hardback
Buy It: Amazon
Jaime and C. J. Fitzpatrick began their married life as most couples do--in love and looking forward to a bright future together. But four years later they've drifted apart and are almost ready to call it quits.

Mattie Riehl was hoping to give her husband Sol the Christmas gift they have both longed for--news that a baby was on the way. But as usual, she is disappointed. The holidays bring an acute awareness to Mattie that her dream of a big family isn't likely to become a reality.

Then a winter storm raging outside blows the Fitzpatricks into the Riehl home--and into a much slower pace of life. Can these two couples from different worlds help each other understand the true meaning of love this Christmas?

With her trademark plot twists and attention to detail, Suzanne Woods Fisher offers readers a beautiful Christmas story of love, forgiveness, and what truly matters in life.

I loved this book from the start! I often forget how much I love Amish reads, and then I will read one and wonder why I don't read them more often. This one was no exception. From the beginning, I was captivated by the two families and their stark differences. Yet despite them, they are brought together by Danny.

Danny is part of the Amish family, but is so naturally kind that he quickly befriends Jaime. They all bond together as one blended group, and learn to accept each others differences the way they are. If you love Amish fiction, pick this one up!


I received this book free for review from a LitFuse blog tour. I was not required to give a positive review, simply an honest one.

Monday, October 3, 2011

Review - Playing Hurt


Playing Hurt: A Guy's Strategy for a Winning Marriage by Brian Goins
Release Date: June 24, 2011
Publisher: Kregel Publications
Genre: Christian non-fiction
Pages: 152
Format: Paperback
Buy It: Amazon
Everyone admires people who play hurt, from the superstar athlete to the journeyman player who finishes the game even when hurt, sick, or falling apart. Everyone looks up to these athletes and wants to mimic their "never give up" attitude. Except when it comes to marriage
I was initially nervous about reviewing this book because it is focused towards married men, and I am neither married nor a man. However, many of the tips in this book can apply to anyone, married or not.

One big focus was that men and women are different and they communicate differently. I will definitely be keeping this in mind when I'm married! This was a great book and I recommend it to all.


I received this book free for review from LitFuse for a blog tour. I was not required to post a positive review, simply an honest one.

Saturday, October 1, 2011

IMM: 10/2/11

In My Mailbox is a weekly meme hosted by the wonderful Kristi at The Story Siren! We share books we received this week, whether we bought them, got them in the mail or checked them out from the library.


Won:
The Fifth Specter by T.S. Welti(Thanks Tawni!)
Audiobook of The Fox Inheritance by Mary Pearson (Thanks Tara!)

Mini Review and Blog Tour - Deeply Devoted


Deeply Devoted by Maggie Brendan

Release Date: September 1, 2011
Publisher: Revell
Genre: Christian Romance
Series: Blue Willow Brides #1
Pages: 332
Format: Paperback
Buy It: Amazon
When Catharine Olsen leaves Holland for America as a mail-order bride, she brings along some extra baggage: two sisters, her mother's set of Blue Willow china, and a tragic past. When she arrives in Cheyenne, Wyoming, she promptly marries Peter Andersen and dreams of starting life over in this rugged land. Peter is kind and patient with Catharine and accommodating to her sisters. His mother, however, is not. When she begins a campaign to sabotage Peter's marriage, Catharine is distraught, worried that her secret past will be discovered. Will her life end up as nothing but broken pieces? Or will these trials make her stronger?

Readers will love negotiating the clash of cultures and class as a highborn European and a Western wheat farmer learn to love one another and trust God with both the past and the future.
I've always found it interesting to read books about Christian mail-order brides, because it happens very rarely. Catharine trusted God to lead her to a man that would take care of her, and He did. However, Peter's mother was not so kind. She constantly was against Catharine, which wore down on her nerves. Their marriage was new, so it didn't have much foundation to keep them up. Despite her trials, Catharine stayed strong to keep on track. This book has a heart-felt story that will appeal to any romance lover.

I received this book free for review for a Revell blog tour. I was not required to give a positive review, simply an honest one.

Friday, September 30, 2011

Mini Review and blog tour - Found in Translation


Found in Translation by Roger Bruner
Release Date: January 1, 2011
Publisher: Barbour Books
Genre: Christian Contemporary Fiction
Series: Altered Hearts #1
Pages: 368
Format: Paperback
Buy It: Amazon

When Kim Hartlinger—eighteen and spoiled—arrives on a mission trip to Mexico and discovers, to her chagrin, that she’ll be doing construction in a remote village without plumbing and electricity, rather than evangelism in a medium-sized town with a fast food joint . . she has only two choices. “Rough it” (which isn’t exactly what Kim had in mind when she signed up for this trip) or turn around and head home.
Will Kim be able to touch the villagers’ hearts with the Gospel? Or will her time in Mexico be up before she gets the chance?
This book pulled me in immediately. The story is foreworded by Kristi Rae Bruner, Roger's daughter. This story is based on her experience on a similar missions trip, and her life-changing experience. With her knowledge, Roger wrote this story.

At first Kim seems like a typical spoiled teenager - thinking of no one but herself. However, she has a genuine Christian heart and wants to help despite the change in circumstances. She makes the best of her situation by frequently laughing at herself, and bonding with Aleesha, an African-American girl that has no issues with Kim's attitude.

Kim hits many snags along the way but learns from each of them and grows in her Christian faith. This story is inspiring to all and helps the reader to put themself into another's shoes. A must-read!

This book was received free for review from the author. I was not required to give a positive review, simply an honest one.

Team Novel Teen is a group of bloggers dedicated to spreading the word about clean teen fiction. Check out other posts about Found in Translation by Roger Bruner by clicking on the links below, and check out www.NovelTeen.com for more information about Team Novel Teen.

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Review - The Raie'Chaelia


The Raie'Chaelia by Melissa Douthit

Release Date: May 27, 2011
Publisher: Lucky Bat Books
Genre: Fantasy
Series: The Raie'Chaelia #1
Format: eBook
Buy It: Amazon
When Chalice sets off for Branbury in the middle of the night with her grandfather's instructions, she has no idea of the dangers that await her. The King's men have destroyed her home village of Canton and she is suddenly thrown into a Terravailian world that she does not know. Lost and alone, she is hard pressed to evade the iron grasp of the madman who rules the land. With the help of a friendly Chinuk, an old man, and a book that she discovers along the way, not only does she find true friends and true love, but she also finds her true self and what it means to be the Raie'Chaelia.
When I first started this book I was convinced I would not be able to finish it and give it a fair review. For me, the prologue was slow-going and didn't really grab my attention. Once I got into Chapter 1 and read about Chalice, and I was hooked.

The books starts with her on the run, and continues fast-paced from there. She meets many people that are crucial to both her journey and the story at large, and learns shocking truths about herself and her family.

I did not realize this was a trilogy, so I was devastated by the huge cliff hanger this book leaves. Book 2 doesn't release until next month, and I'm so ready to read it! There are currently two prequels released, both for free on Smashwords here and here.



I received this book free for review for a blog tour promoting the author. I was not required to give a positive review, simply an honest one.
 
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